Dana Point Times

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VOLUME 6, ISSUE 1

Sailing On in 2013 Town Center revitalization, fiscal stability, top priorities for the new year E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

The city of Dana Point hopes for smooth waters ahead as it prepares to continue work on projects carried over from 2012 as well as tackling the new business of the coming year. Photo by Tony Tribolet

www.danapointtimes.com

Caltrans Interstate 5/ Ortega Highway Interchange Project Moves Forward

Tom Blake: Internet Dating Sites for Seniors

Big Wave Surfer Talks About Surviving Near Drowning

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EYE ON DP

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 Craft Fair and Farmers Market 9 a.m.-3 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza Street. On the first Saturday of each month the Dana Point Farmers Market hours are extended to 3 p.m. to include a craft fair. Admission is free. For more information or to inquire about purchasing a booth for $25, please call 949.573.5033 or 1.951.271.0669 or see www.danapoint.org.

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D a n a Po i nt

Headlands Walking Tour 9 a.m.-

noon. The Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, hosts a docentled tour of the Dana Point Preserve, Hilltop Park and Harbor Point Park.

Advanced registration is required. The tour group meets in the porch area of the center. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the 1.5-mile trail walk. For more info or to register, call 949.542.4755.

33333 Golden Lantern, asks residents to drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the school parking lot for students from the school’s chapter of the California Scholastic Federation and other school organizations to collect and sort. Funds collected are distributed by the PTSA for student programs. Future events will be held Jan. 26, Feb. 9 and 23, March 9 and 23, April 13 and 27, May 11 and 25. Events will be held rain or shine. For more information send an email to president@ dhhsptsa.com.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 Recycling Event at Dana Hills High 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Dana Hills High School,

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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...the I-5/Ortega Highway Project?

THE LATEST: Two more properties in San Juan Capistrano have been shut down to clear the way for Caltrans’ Interstate 5/ Ortega Highway Interchange Improvement Project, the department announced Monday.

Caltrans took possession of a Chevron gas station and a Denny’s restaurant, both located on Ortega Highway just east of I-5, at midnight, according to Public Information Officer David Richardson.

Caltrans also announced a former Jack in the Box property, located at the corner of Del Obispo Street and Ortega Highway, will be demolished after the New Year.

That property, along with another Chevron gas station on Del Obispo Street, was shut down in October.

WHAT’S NEXT: The project is slated to begin in early 2013 and will reconstruct the existing Ortega Highway bridge over I-5, widen existing on- and off-ramps, construct a new on-ramp from eastbound Ortega Highway for northbound I-5 travelers and realign the western portion of Ortega Highway to curve into Del Obispo Street.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.dot.ca.gov/dist12. —Brian Park

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…SONGS?

THE LATEST: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission denied a petition by a citizens’ group seeking a public hearing to discuss a possible amendment to Southern California Edison’s license to run the facility.

Anti-nuclear advocates have been pushing for a license amendment review as a way to bring “independent” experts in to review the plant’s operations and whether Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

or not the plant should be shut down entirely. The NRC’s Atomic Safety and Licensing Board denied Citizens Oversight’s request for a hearing to challenge some of the “technical specifications” of SONGS. The board is a quasi-judicial panel of three judges who are independent of the Commissioners and of the NRC staff.

The board denied Citizens Oversight’s objection that the proposed amendments would “relocate” or remove some technical specifications from public view and allow Edison to change them without prior public or NRC review because binding precedent issued by NRC Commissioners in 2001 found that such a relocation was legally proper.

missioned work from composer Athena Adamopoulos and a video art commission

by Rex Bruce, director of the Los Angeles Center for Digital Art. All events will also feature a visual art exhibition by local artists.

The season will end with a “choose your finale” event featuring the audience’s choice of music performed at the final concert. Audiences at the first three events will be asked to vote from among three masterworks.

Season passes cost $45. Individual concert tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students and military and may be purchased at the door or online at www. danapointsymphony.ticketleap.com.

WHAT’S NEXT: A separate Atomic Safety and Licensing Board of three different judges is considering a hearing request filed by Friends of the Earth, which argues that the NRC’s Confirmatory Action Letter to Edison last year should be treated as a license amendment. Legal briefs are being submitted to that board this month, the agency said, and a decision is not expected until after that time.

WHAT’S NEXT: The four concerts of the season will be held February 8, March 8, April 5 and May 31. All performances will take place at St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera and will begin at 7:30 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www. danapointtimes.com. — Jim Shilander

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FIND OUT MORE: For more information, including the full list of music, artists and performers, log on to www.danapointsymphony.com. —Andrea Swayne

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…the Dana Point Symphony?

THE LATEST: The Dana Point Symphony Orchestra is set to kick off its 2013 season with opening night scheduled for February 8.

According to artistic and executive director Berenika Schmitz, the season promises the addition of a number of new developments to the symphony’s second season.

These include collaboration with the Dana Point Festival of Whales which will bring an opera, ocean concert, a specially com-

…DUI Arrests?

THE LATEST: The 2012 winter holiday season saw a rise in arrests for driving under the influence cases in Orange County, according to a news release from the county Sheriff’s Department.

As part of the countywide “Avoid the 38” DUI campaign, officers from 38 county law enforcement agencies arrested 971 individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs between December 14 through January 1—up from 836 arrests last year during the same period.

For the second consecutive year, however, there were no DUI-related deaths in

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Orange County, although not all agencies have yet submitted their findings.

The DUI arrests were made at several sobriety checkpoints, special saturation patrols and routine patrols throughout the county.

WHAT’S NEXT: Law enforcement officials will conduct more DUI operations during Super Bowl Sunday in February and again during St. Patrick’s Day in March.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.ocsd.org/news. —BP

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…Open Enrollment Waiver?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees will consider seeking a waiver that will allow the district to remove several of its schools from the Open Enrollment Act list.

The Open Enrollment Act, a 2010 state law, requires the State Superintendent to maintain a list of California’s 1,000 “low achieving” schools, based on Academic Performance Index scores. Students attending those schools have the right to transfer out of their districts, but districts are also encouraged to provide inter-district transfer options.

The law also requires no district to have more than 10 percent of its schools on the list. As such, CUSD staff is recommending the board to remove the following schools from the list: Clarence Lobo, Crown Valley, Kinoshita, Marblehead, R.H. Dana, San Juan and Viejo.

WHAT’S NEXT: The board will convene Monday, January 7 for closed session at 6 p.m. and for open session at 7 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: To view the agenda, visit capousd.ca.schoolloop.com. —BP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Sailing On in 2013

healthy financial climate and that provides comfort and many options for our city and its residents. We can focus on the Town Center, Dana Point Harbor and Doheny Village projects as well as additional items that are significant to our residents.

“The city will be conducting another community survey and the results will yield priorities and where our focus should be placed.”

Town Center revitalization, fiscal stability, top priorities for the new year

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

W

hile the din of holiday and New Year celebrations fades, the city is ready to set sail and forge ahead with ongoing projects and to tackle the many new challenges 2013 will likely bring.

With Councilman Steven Weinberg at the helm as mayor, the city will continue on the tasks at hand, fueled by last year’s progress.

The work to be done includes an effort to wrap up a couple of significant ongoing court battles that require final resolution.

The two highest profile matters are litigation over the city’s 2011 closure of all the medical marijuana dispensaries in town and the battle over public access through two gated paths from Strand Vista Park to the beach below.

Although a summary judgment ordering one of the closed marijuana dispensaries to pay $2.4 million (of the approximately $7 million combined total in judgments previously awarded to the city) was overturned and a second court reduced the judgment to $608,000 plus attorney’s fees, City Attorney Patrick Munoz said the city will continue to pursue payment in all of the cases. Likewise, the dispensary founders have vowed to continue their appeals.

As the Surfrider Foundation and the California Coastal Commission continue to call for removal of the gates and posted hours at the two of five pathways leading to Strand Beach through the Strand at Headlands development, the city will continue to defend its belief that the gates are a matter of public safety which the city has a right to enforce and are in no way aimed at restricting access.

The OC Dana Point Harbor Revitalization Plan has continued to progress slowly since its first introduction in 1997. Following the Orange County Board of Supervisors February approval of an architecture and engineering contract for landside development and their December approval of the Environmental Impact Report for the marina improvement portion of the plan, the city is looking forward to begin seeing specific construction designs as the project moves forward this year.

In December, City Council voted unanimously to renew the Dana Point Tourism Business Improvement District, or TBID, which allows the city’s four largest hotels to collect funds via a $3 per night assessDana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

This rendering shows the city’s vision of what Del Prado could look like after completion of the Town Center Project. Courtesy of the city of Dana Point

ment to be used for the continued branding and marketing the city.

And, although council members will have plenty to consider with matters like planning for future improvements in the Doheny Village area of Capistrano Beach and a draft ordinance for the possible regulation of short-term vacation rentals now in the works, the most talked about issue is what 2013 could bring to the progress of the Town Center Revitalization project.

All five council members mention Town Center Revitalization project as a top priority, noting that it hinges directly on the continued financial stability of the city.

Read on for their thoughts both issues.

BILL BROUGH “I get asked most ‘What’s going on with Town Center?’ At our last meeting, I requested a full, public briefing on it and asked staff to consult the South Coast Water District regarding their commitment and timeframe to begin.

“The Town Center Plan was approved six years ago. Now is the time to get a competitive bid and construct rather than disrupt businesses when the economy rebounds. We don’t have to do the entire project. How much (will it take) to change the streets to two-way or widen sidewalks?

We average $32 million in reserves and $5 million is available to start the funding discussion, if we are prudent and leave one year’s revenue ($27 million last year) in the bank. I worry our local agency investment fund based in Sacramento and/ or our $7 million of undesignated reserves could be at risk by the state.

“Building Town Center will beautify the area, indicate to investors that we are committed to the project, make Lantern Village attractive to investment and stimulate the local economy during the construction as workers buy lunch, gas, supplies, etc. around town.

“The time in now. We must make Town Center a priority as we embark on our two-year budget discussions beginning this spring.”

SCOTT SCHOEFFEL “Substantial progress on the city’s Town

Center project is at the top of my list of 2013 priorities. The key to that progress will be the city’s ability to attract and retain qualified investors, lenders and development professionals who are both willing and able to assume the sizeable financial and other risks associated with a project of this magnitude.

“Unfortunately, some of the most important factors that dictate the success or failure of development projects are well outside of the city’s control or influence. For example, developers generally must be able to finance their ventures by raising investment capital and obtaining loans, and our prolonged economic downturn has made both a significant challenge.

“An improving economy may begin to create favorable conditions for the Town Center project to advance at a much brisker pace. Realistically, after nearly five years of deep recession, it may still take longer than any of us would prefer.

I am certain that in the coming months the City Council and staff will be exploring many different options to carry out the Town Center project in a manner that is prudent, legally appropriate and in the best interests of all Dana Point residents, businesses and taxpayers.”

LISA BARTLETT “The economy is slowly recovering and I believe that our top priority is to ensure that our city continues to be fiscally stable. Due to the prudent planning and budgeting by the City Council and staff, Dana Point is one of the few cities in California that has no debt, no unfunded pension liability, significant cash reserves and a balanced budget. As a result, we have the option to explore opportunities to provide exceptional and additional projects, activities and services that benefit the residents and business community so we continue to be the best place to live, work and play.

“I would like to focus on projects that increase the value of Dana Point as a coastal city and international resort destination. If our hotels and businesses are prosperous and our property values rise, we have a

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STEVEN WEINBERG “We must continue to be fiscally responsible with the city’s budget on both the revenue and expense side, while keeping our reserves healthy for a rainy day. Once we have fulfilled the basic needs of the city and our residents, we can more fully discuss this next year’s priorities.

“As the economy seems to be getting better, and our revenues are trending up, I would like to see us begin the Town Center project. This is a big, multi-million dollar endeavor. It is difficult to do it piecemeal and thus disrupt the business over a long period of time. The question is, do we bond with low interest rates and low construction costs, or wait until we have saved most or all of the money to pay for the project?

“Just as we did in the Town Center Plan, we need to complete the Doheny Village Plan and the short-term rental issue needs to be finalized. In both instances, the owners can plan how to best utilize their property. But most of all, we need to continue to be fiscally responsible with the city’s money while delivering five-star service to our residents and visitors.”

CARLOS N. OLVERA “The Town Center Plan was one of my top three main issues during my campaign for City Council and remains so today.

“This started during my days on the Planning Commission in the early ‘90s.

It has progressed with community input, design plans and Coastal Commission approval. The cost estimate is $19 million dollars. It requires the water district to redo the water and sewage infrastructure for the proposed increase usage of the area. The city needs to convert the one-way traffic to two-way, do sidewalk and parking improvements and street landscaping.

“But funding is the issue. A residential survey indicated that no bonds should be issued to pay for it. But the big question is, when will vacant property owners be ready to start new construction, and who goes first?

“We do not want the city or the water district to tear up the streets for their own projects separately. And the current and proposed businesses do not want less customer traffic due to construction.

The solution is to get all the stakeholders together to produce a pay-as-you-go plan that is acceptable to all.

“I will not propose any new projects that might take away manpower or city funds which could delay Town Center.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMP I LE D BY A R IA N A C RI SA F U L L I All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Tuesday, January 1 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Portola/Calle Juanita (10:05 a.m.)

A man in his mid 30s was seen wandering around Sunset Park for about 30 minutes.

The informant said that the man looked suspicious because he had a white plastic bag over his hand.

KEEP THE PEACE Niguel Road/Stonehill Drive (2:59 a.m.)

A woman staying at the St. Regis called police alleging that one of the valet attendants was rude to her and shoved her husband. She later called back to complain that the police did not show up quickly enough.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Pacific Coast Highway/Monarch Bay Drive (2:46 a.m.) A patrol check was requested for an inebriated man staggering in the middle of PCH. The informant said he almost hit the man when he drove by and was concerned that other drivers might not see him in the road.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive (12:52 a.m.)

Police were notified by an employee of the Laguna Cliffs Marriot that an intoxicated man was blocking traffic in the intersection preventing motorists from getting to the hotel.

ASSAULT Del Prado/Pacific Coast Highway (12:47 a.m.) A woman called to report assault on her and her brother in front of StillWater.

The assailant was an unknown male who took off immediately after the assault. The woman and her brother told police that they believe the man went to another bar and to look for him there.

Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

Monday, December 31 DISTURBANCE Vista Del Mar, 26700 Block (11:42 p.m.)

Six males were seen fighting on the front lawn at a house party. One of the subjects detained by police had lost consciousness, and the others had gone back inside the house. When the unconscious man came to, he told police that the fight had only been one on one.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (9:05 p.m.) An employee of the Dana Point Harbor House called to report three elderly transients harassing customers.

DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 34200 Block (2:10 p.m.) Police were called regarding a man who was becoming aggressive with a gas station manager. The man in question was reportedly “throwing gang signs” and trying to start a fight.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Robles Drive, 33700 Block (12:35 p.m.)

A woman was seen standing in front of an apartment building, talking to herself and holding a bottle of pills.

WELFARE CHECK Lantern Hill Drive, 24400 Block (12:31 p.m.) A woman called police when she noticed that her 84-year-old male neighbor’s door was left open. The woman said she went by the man’s front door to check on him but there was no response from inside.

She also reported that there may have been a man lying on the bathroom floor.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 34200 Block (2:20 a.m.)

A man called to report another man who had been sleeping in the parking lot of his building. The subject told the informant that he would not leave.

Sunday, December 30 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Juanita, 26800 Block (4:50 p.m.)

A call was made to the police regarding a man and a woman in a white Lexus. The informant reported seeing the two throw hypodermic needles out the car window.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Stonehill Drive/Golden Lantern (11:52 a.m.) A caller reported seeing several 10to 12-year-olds driving a gold Toyota sedan.

Saturday, December 29 DISTURBANCE Calle Rosita, 34500 Block (10:52 p.m.)

A man told police his brother was out of control and was attempting to start fights with his family. The caller did not want to come outside because he was concerned that his parents would lock the door behind him and not let him back in.

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NEWS BITES

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Two Events for Singles Over 50 Set for January u Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point, will host two meet and greet events this month for singles over 50 on Thursday, January 10 and Thursday, January 24 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“Invite your male friends and help level the playing field,” said Tom Blake, deli owner, author of many books on dating after 50 and the DP Times column “On Life and Love After 50.”

The event is free and happy hour prices will be offered on adult beverages and appetizers.

To find out more, log on to www.tutorandspunkys.com.

Taste of Dana Tickets on Sale Now, Grad Nite Committee Seeking Donors u The 17th Annual Taste of Dana event is set for Friday, March 22 at Dana Hills High School in Dana Point from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm. More than 20 local restaurants will be on hand to help raise funds for a safe and sober graduation celebration for Dana Hills School Seniors.

Get your tickets early. All funds raised support a safe and sober Grad Nite, a parent-chaperoned, alcohol and drug-free graduation night celebration.

Last year’s ticket holders sampled “tastes” from local restaurants such as Brio, Wind & Sea, Coffee Importers, Cannon’s, Chaparosa Grill, Z Pizza, Harbor Deli, Rubio’s and the Hunter Steakhouse, to name a few.

Included in the evening of food, music and entertainment will be a silent auction and raffle with prizes such as concert, theater and sporting event tickets; rounds of golf; gift cards for services, restaurants and events; jewelry; food and beverage items; crafting supplies, and home products.

Tickets are $15 per person through March 21 and $20 at the door. Tickets can

be purchased at www.dhgradnite.com and at many school events.

Businesses or individuals interested in sponsoring the event and/or donating items or services of value to the auction and raffle will be recognized in the Taste of Dana program. Donors will also be featured on the Grad Nite website, in the newspaper and in the 2012-2013 Commencement Program. Anyone interested in making a donation should contact the Grad Nite chairman at chairman@dhgradnite.com.

The Dana Hills High School Grad Night committee is a 501(c)(3) organization.

Dana Hills High School is located at 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 and can be reached by phone at 949.496.6666.

Democratic Club Meeting to Discuss County’s Homeless u The monthly dinner meeting of the South Orange Democratic Club will be held on Wednesday, January 9, at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino del Avion in San Juan Capistrano.

This month’s meeting features speaker Nancy McIntyre, a retired teacher who was instrumental in creating the Interfaith Homeless Outreach Project for Empowerment, or iHope, a nonprofit center for the homeless in San Clemente. This center provides basic needs, shelter, tools and training for the homeless, at-risk, and working poor to guide them in their return to self-sufficiency. McIntyre knows the name and history of nearly every homeless person in Orange County.

Buffet dinner begins at 6 p.m. followed by the meeting at 7 p.m. Cost for members is $17 and $20 for non-members. Please RSVP by Monday, January 7, to kenton805@cox.net.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

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Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@danapointtimes.com DISTRIBUTION

Dana Point Times, Vol. 6, Issue 1. The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch. com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@danapointtimes.com

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BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

City Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associate > Angela Edwards

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Ariana Crisafulli, Tawnee Prazak, Kevin Dahlgren, Adam Herzog, Darian Nourian

ALL HANDS, AHOY: By Beverli Jinn

Today We Are 7 Billion, 84 Million and Counting

S

omebody is obviously keeping track.

The official website of the city of Dana Point tells us that the population is 33,429. While there’s little doubt that this number fluctuates, we can be certain that it isn’t going to change very much. After all, where would we put additional people? I suppose in third world countries they handle this problem in the only way they’re able. As a family grows in number, they just pack everyone in a little tighter.

That isn’t likely to be seen as a solution in Dana Point. We’re spoiled. Many of us have rooms we don’t even use. Outside we need a big yard to accommodate the patio and swimming pool. We need a three car garage where we can store stuff.

So, in many homes, there really is an extra room where we could house a homeless family. That ain’t gonna happen, of course—not in your home, not in mine.

Housing projects for the homeless might be worth considering but not for long. There’s really not that much available land for more homes.

It’s even less likely that current residents are going to be interested in renting out a room or two. The bigger the house, in fact, the less likely it is that the owner is going to be interested in sharing.

Got an ocean view? Even a peek-a-boo view such as my own little condo? If I stand in the closet of my upstairs master bedroom, I can see through a sliding glass door a patch of blue ocean in the distance.

I’m not about to share my personal ocean with anyone, even though it’s not very romantic for even a minimal cocktail party.

Taking turns in the closet isn’t all it might be cracked up to be.

The point here is that, view or no view, homeowners in Dana Point like it here.

Most of us are going to stay for as long as

Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

we can. Most of us will never consider renting out a room. This space on the map is just fine the way it is.

Does it really matter to us that the population of planet Earth is now Beverli Jinn seven billion, or that this number is projected to rise to 9.3 billion by 2050? After all, most of the population will be in developing countries in places like Asia, Africa and Latin America. Really.

What can we do about it?

There will still be lots of empty land; not in Dana Point, of course, but out there.

Maybe we can let good ol’ American ingenuity figure out how to get some water to the barren land. We’ve got oceans filled with water. Technology will find a way to desalinate and fill our aquifers. Aqueducts will move water to wherever it’s needed.

Voilà! The fruited plains will burst forth with wheat and corn enough to feed the world. We’ll have a chicken in every pot before you can say, “Jack Robinson.”

Or not.

The fact is that, no matter how much food we’re able to produce, it will never be enough to feed the world’s ever-growing population.

The fact is that our children and grandchildren are going to be affected by this growth, wherever they live.

The fact is that humankind has always had to compete to survive. There has always been, and there always will be, winners and losers. Some humans live in luxurious houses in Dana Point; some humans live in third world squalor. Typically this doesn’t seem to be determined by how “deserving” each person may be. I make no pretense about being able to explain how this all works. For me, it

seems to help me feel good about myself if I share my good fortune with those who are not so fortunate.

Go figure.

I’m fairly certain, however, that things are not going to get better if we allow Earth’s population to continue to balloon out of control. Legislation putting limits on family size has not worked out so well in China. It’s easy to understand how individual families could reason that an additional child or two will not have much impact in the world as a whole.

Wrong! In China and Dana Point and every other place on Earth, it’s time right now to take this problem seriously. Very, very seriously.

Some years ago, at her first opportunity, Beverli Jinn retired from teaching high school English. A lot of books inside her demanded to be written. Now, several years and six published books later, an altered compulsion, the care and feeding of our

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ocean, drives Jinn’s pen. She believes that the residents of Orange County’s South Coast can lead the way in establishing and maintaining a healthy watershed. She is the co-founder of Dana Point’s Earth/Ocean Society and is active in the DP Historical Society. Born and raised in Orange County, she has lived in Dana Point since 2001.

Jinn welcomes her readers’ feedback via email at beverlijinn@cox.net. DP

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@danapointtimes.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

DP

D a n a Po i nt

THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday

SHOWOFF: INTERNATIONAL PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL 8 p.m. The annual playwright festival at Camino Real Playhouse featuring the 10-minute plays by seven directors with the audience voting for the winner. Tickets $18$24. Two weekends only. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

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THE ORIGINALITES 9:30 p.m.-12 a.m. Reggae/ska live at The Shore. 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.6089, www.theshoresanclemente.com.

DAVINE WINE TASTING AND MUSIC 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Live music and wine tasting at DaVine Food and Wine (tastings start at 4 p.m.). $15. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

WINE AND MUSIC CRUISE 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Dana Wharf’s cruise on a luxury catamaran with wine, snacks, music and more. Tickets $49. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

LIVE MUSIC 9 p.m.–1:30 a.m. Top-40 hits, rock ‘n’ roll and ’90s dance music set the scene in Brio Tuscany Grille for singles’ night. 24050 Camino del Avion, Suite B, Monarch Beach, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

JEREMY HOTZ – COMEDY 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Standup comedy show at the Irvine Improv. Tickets $17. 71 Fortune Drive, Suite 841, Irvine, 949.854.5455, www.improv.com.

saturday

05

NATURE TOUR 9 a.m.

A docent leads an educational and informative walk out of the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

MISSING PERSONS FEAT. DALE BOZZIO 8 p.m.

Concert at The Coach House, also with Groove Kitty, The Fabulous Rudies, and Sailors of Neptune. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

AT THE MOVIES: LITERALLY ‘LES MISÉRABLES’ Broadway fans have pondered the possibility of a big screen version of the ever popular musical Les Misérables for years. Now, Hollywood has offered up a movie musical version, one of the most anticipated films of the holiday season.

Based on the classic novel by Victor Hugo, Les Mis was turned into a French musical in 1980 and transitioned into English for London in 1985 and then Broadway in 1987. In 19th century France, a thief named Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) escapes parole and creates a whole new identity and life for himself in a small town. An obsessed police officer Javert (Russell Crowe) continues to hunt for him. Fantine (Anne Hathaway) loses her job and health while trying to provide for her daughter Cosette (Isabelle Allen and Amanda Seyfried), who ©Universal Pictures grows up raised by Valjean and is caught in a love triangle with Marius (Eddie Redmayne) and Eponine (Samantha Barks). Co-starring Aaron Tveit, Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron-Cohen, Les Mis proves awkward on film with direction by Tom Hooper better suited for a drama than musical and a few actors who are limited in singing talent (like Crowe). The most interesting elements of the movie involve Hathaway as Fantine and she unfortunately has the least amount of screen time. While Barks and Baron-Cohen are also intriguing in their roles, amateurish editing and cuts kill all potential for the film’s success as a quality adaptation. —Megan Bianco

MOUNTAIN LION LECTURE 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Lecture by former Park Ranger Donna Krucki at Caspers Wilderness Park Nature Center. 33401 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, www.ocparks.org.

ADOBE BRICK MAKING 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Mission features a hands-on activity for kids to make their own adobe brick, and learn about the lives of Mission Native Americans. $3 plus admission. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

TICKET TO RIDE 8:45 p.m. Beatles tribute at Mozambique. 1740 S. Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.715.7777, www.mozambiqueoc.com.

PRIMA DONNA AND DIME RUNNER 8 p.m.

StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

sunday

VILLAGE ART FAIRE 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Enjoy a sidewalk arts and crafts faire along Avenida Del Mar in San Clemente; this month will feature great holiday shopping with unique hand-crafted objects and art. Info: 949.218.5378, www.villagesanclemente.org.

06

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. SJC Historical Society leads a tour to see Los Rios Historical District, O’Neill Museum, Montanez Adobe, the Mission, Rios Adobe and more. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. Every Sunday. $2 adults, $1 children.

949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.

THE MOTHERF**KER WITH THE HAT 2 p.m. New play, for mature audiences only, debuts at South Coast Repertory. Tickets start at $48. 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, www.scr.org.

monday

07

COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

COMEDY AND KARAOKE 9 p.m.–1 a.m. The night starts with live comedy and continues with karaoke at 11 p.m. at Hennessey’s Tavern. No cover. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

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tuesday

SALSA 101 7 p.m. StillWater features a salsa dance class with Eric Romero followed by open dancing starting at 8:30 p.m. The dance class is $20; open dance free. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

08

wednesday

09

OLD CAPISTRANO FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba; 949.493.4700.

SHAWN JONES 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

WINE TASTING 7 p.m.–8 p.m. Four-course food and wine pairing at St. Roy Chef’s Pub at Vine; menu changes weekly. Cost $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

KRIS WINRICH 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Guest musician from Flock of 80’s at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

thursday

BEETHOVEN’S VIOLIN CONCERTO 8 p.m.

Beethoven’s most performed and most recorded work in the violin repertoire in concert in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $25. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.

10

FORTUNATE YOUTH 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House, also with Defunked and Joint Committee. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

WHALE WATCHING Noon and 2 p.m. Dana Wharf offers daily whale watching tours on the OCean Adventure catamaran. Cost $30-$45. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Which Internet Dating Sites are Best for Seniors?

I ’m often asked by singles over age 50 which internet dating websites I recommend. There is no correct answer because everybody has different personalities, tastes, expectations, appearances, website experiences and needs.

Karla, Palm Springs, recommends avoiding the free sites such as Plenty of Fish and OK Cupid: “I wouldn’t go to a ‘free dating site’ again. I feel that if a man or woman is serious about finding a quality mate, they should be willing to pay for it--sort of a ‘good faith’ thing. Otherwise, the word ‘cheap’ comes to mind.” She added that the quality of men on freebee sites is very low.

And yet, there are other women who have met decent men on the free sites.

But fee-based sites aren’t perfect either.

Karla said this about a well-known paid site: “Not only is it expensive, it doesn’t accurately interpret one’s personality created from their endless questionnaire.” She cited a question the site asks: “Do you ever drive over the speed limit?”

I’ll admit, I don’t see why a question like that is important in finding a compatible mate.

Liz, Springfield, Ill., said that that same site is “cumbersome, slow to use and too expensive.”

Seniors seeking a partner who shares similar religious beliefs can go to specialty sites such as Catholic Singles, Catholic Match, JDate (for Jewish people) and Christian Mingle, among others.

Jennifer said, “Sites that try to connect people on one single common interest (e.g., both people play bridge) cannot assess physical attraction. Sites that allow users to search through a large database are better. People can make their own selections. The only problem with these sites is many people misrepresent themselves.

“A lot of the men are married and pretend to be single. A lot of the women are overweight and misrepresent their weight.

Some people post photos that are years old Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

and almost everybody lies about their age.

People using these sites need to meet in person to determine the facts and decide for themselves if they are interested.

This means doing a lot of screening.”

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 A few of my e-newsBy Tom Blake letter readers feel that sites that cater specifically to older singles such as Our Time, a site formed out of the merging of Senior People Meet and Senior Friend Finder, work best because most of the people on those sites are seniors looking for other seniors.

Sue, divorced eight years and an Internet dater for five years, said about Our Time, “The cost isn’t too high, but it’s enough to ward off the odd balls.”

She added that if she meets a guy she likes online and they date for three to four months, she will remove her profile from Internet sites.

Match.com, which owns Our Time, seems to have a good reputation, but, according to Liz, “does not target the over 50 crowd.”

However, Stella, Garden Grove, says the sites that cater to older singles have their flaws as well: “I was on a site for six months. I scheduled four dates, all of which cancelled at the last minute.

Also, there were many, many men who wanted phone sex, and several that were married or shacking up and just wanted to see what was ‘out there.’ I did meet a nice gentleman from Canada who was 80, but alas, he also wanted sex. They never change, doesn’t matter if they are 8 or 80.”

Mindy said, “Dating sites may be great for some people—they certainly expand the dating circle—but for me, everyone started to blur together. I started responding with ‘hey you.’ I found it disconcerting that someone you did not know would get

Page 10

angry when you would not meet them.”

Susan, 57, who resides in Australia, commented on meeting up with old friends via Facebook: “Be careful with this one. I have found that even with the passing of decades, they have the same issues with more baggage.”

Regardless of the drawbacks on the various sites, lots of couples have had success using Internet dating sites. Gale, North Carolina, emailed, “Match.com was very rewarding for me in 2001. I received two free weeks in my mailbox and met the love of my life, in spite of the distance. He moved south, we married and lived happily until his passing in 2008.”

I suggest caution for anyone using these sites, until you are absolutely sure with whom/what you’re dealing. Unfortunately, there are many unstable people out there, both men and women.”

No site is perfect. Dawn, who had a beef about a senior site, said, “The biggest gripe I have is the warning that members do not exchange any personal information such as phone numbers or addresses ‘for their own safety.’” She said safety is not the reason: “All they want is to keep their membership list high to encourage future

memberships/subscribers.”

Three years ago, I published a book titled How 50 Couples Found Love After 50 (Amazon.com). Of all the couples featured in the book, 55 percent met online. More than half of the people featured were widowed. The most utilized site among those couples was Match.com.

Bottom line: The Internet is a doubleedged sword when it comes to seniors seeking mates. It can be a great tool as the plethora of success stories proves.

However, it also can be highly discouraging for seniors. There is a lot of rejection, so a thick skin is required. Plus, many, many seniors have been scammed and lost thousands of dollars by being taken, particularly new widows who are vulnerable.

Playing the Internet dating game is not for the naïve or faint of heart. Internet dating takes a lot of time, effort, patience, and often, some money. Which site is best? It all depends on the individual.

To comment: tompblake@gmail.com.

In January, there will be two singles 50+ meet and greet gatherings. On Thursday, January 10 and Thursday, January 24. For information, see www.tutorandspunkys. com. DP

EYE ON DP HARBOR HAPPENINGS

BY B ARB ARA ME RRIMAN

The New Water Toys

T

ake a trip to the Dana Point Harbor—any harbor—and you will see something that those of us who frequent the area daily have been seeing for the last few years. The Stand-up paddleboard, or SUP, craze is in full swing. Market research shows that they are not only popular in harbors but also on inland lakes, where over 90 percent of them are being used. We see hundreds, perhaps thousands, of SUP enthusiasts in our little harbor, but the sheer number of boards beyond our community is amazing.

You can buy them at all the area surf shops, and even at stores like Target and Walmart. However, one owner of a manufacturing company right here in the USA—Texas is still part of the USA, right?—is doing a really cool thing. His name is Mike Stand-up paddlers participated in this year’s Bill, and beginning last summer, Richard Henry Dana Charity Regatta at the one of his large merchandise vans Dana Point Harbor. Courtesy photo set up shop in the Harbor. They Harbor, the water is covered by located themselves in the parking lot paddleboards and all manner of of the Dana Point Yacht Club every paddlers—young, old, beginners, Thursday, and with a phone call or experienced. Some even bring the online reservation, members of the dog along to ride on the board. It is an public could come down and try out a inexpensive way to enjoy the Harbor board. They provided free instruction or your favorite lake, to get some great with no obligation. The name of the core exercise and to meet new people. company is SUPATX, a name derived There are organized races all over the from “Stand-up Paddleboards, Austin, country, especially in our area. Most Texas.” are sponsored by the surfing industry For the winter months, weather and there are some nice jackpots up permitting, the van will be at Dana for grabs for the winners.

Point Yacht Club on Sunday mornThere are so many boards on a ings from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. For summer weekend that a reservation, log on to sometimes these paddlers http://www.meetup.com/ get in the way of the boats sup-socal or call 866.4SUtraveling in and out of the PATX (866.478.7289).

Harbor. Because paddleIf that sounds like a good boards are not listed in the deal, it is. Mike wants to Coast Guard’s Rules of the share his love and knowlRoad, they have no right of edge of the sport with our B Y B A R B A R A way. Not all boaters know community. He lives here MERRIMAN this and many paddlers are and is a generous member unaware of this as well. A of the yacht club, having collision between one of these boards donated a large board and paddle and a large boat could spoil your day, for our Richard Henry Dana Charity so when you are out there, be aware of Regatta live auction. your surroundings and grow eyes in These boards had such a rapid the back of your head. rise in popularity that the U.S. Coast Not into the sport? Come on down, Guard issued a new ruling to profind a bench or bring a chair and mote safety. According to the USCG, prepare for some entertainment. The there needs to be a personal flotation experts will astonish you with their device either on each paddler or on skill. The beginners will provide coeach board. So if you buy a board, medic relief, and there are always the grab a life jacket or other flotation “costumes” people wear that make for device as well. some interesting people-watching. DP On summer weekends in the

Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

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SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

D a n a Po i nt

OUTDOOR SPOTLIGHT

REGISTER FOR LAGUNA NIGUEL TRIATHLON

For those who did not get their fill at this year’s Dana Point Turkey Trot, neighboring Laguna Niguel is offering a race that caters to all skill levels.

This year’s Laguna Niguel Triathlon will feature a reverse sprint style event as well as a 5K, 10K and 1K kids fun-run on February 17, with most of the day’s action taking place at the Crown Valley Community Park.

The reverse sprint triathlon is a USA Triathlon sanctioned event, which features a 5K run, and 17K bike ride and a 150-meter swim.

The run portion will take participants out of the Crown Valley park via the

Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Photo by Jasmine Smith

soccer fields and into nearby Laguna Niguel Regional Park, where they will run through the numerous trail systems. Runners will circle the Sulphur Creek Reservoir and return to the start point, where their bicycles will be waiting.

Game: 1/5 vs. Beckman, 12:30 p.m.

Dolphin Report

WRESTLING • The Dolphins were set to compete in the Mann Classic on December 21. Results were not available at press time. Next Match: 1/8 vs. Laguna Hills, 5:30 p.m.

By Steve Breazeale

BOYS BASKETBALL • The Dana Hills boys basketball team took home its first piece of hardware on the season after traveling to play in the Max Preps Holiday Classic Tournament and placing first. The Dolphins (13-4) went undefeated in the tournament, rattling off four consecutive wins including a 69-43 victory over Cathedral City in the final on December 29.

The Dolphin defense proved effective throughout the four days of competition, allowing an average of 33.5 points per game to be scored against them.

Senior point guard Hayden Fredrick was named the tournament MVP and turned in an efficient all-around game in the final, where he scored 16 points, had eight assists, one block and three steals in the win.

Fredrick, senior guard Cory Blau and junior forward James Taylor were named to the All-Tournament squad.

Next Game: 1/9 vs. San Juan Hills, 7 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL • The holiday tournament schedule seemed to be exactly what the Dana Hills girls basketball team needed. Heading into their own inaugural North vs. South Challenge on December 22 the Dolphins were the owners of a 2-7 overall record. But a close 66-63 victory over Los Alamitos at home on that day was the catalyst for a run of five straight wins, which has vaulted them up to .500 for the first time all season.

After the win over Los Alamitos the Dolphins (7-7) won

The closed bike circuit essentially takes riders around the same path again, just for a longer distance.

The 150-meter swim will take place in the Crown Valley Community Park’s pool.

Those interested in competing in the 5K, 10K and 1K kids run will start at the same time (7 a.m.) as the triathletes and will run on the same course.

Early registration is now open for the month of January. Prices will increase for those who register in February. For more information and to register, visit www.lagunanigueltriahlton.com.

BOYS SOCCER • Dana Hills held the No. 2 ranked San Clemente boys soccer team scoreless in the first half of their December 21 non-league matchup, but gave up a second half goal and the Dolphins went on to lose 1-0.

Dana Hills (4-4) bounced back nicely from the loss with a 6-3 non-league win over Corona del Mar at Mission Viejo High on December 29. Next Game: 1/9 vs. San Juan Hills, 4:30 p.m.

Dana Hills senior forward Katie Underwood was named the Max Preps Holiday Classic tournament MVP. Underwood helped lead the Dolphins (7-7) to the tournament title on December 29. Courtesy photo

four straight at the Max Preps Holiday Classic en route to claiming the tournament championship.

In the semifinal game of the Max Preps Holiday Classic on December 28 the Dolphins squared off against Desert Chapel and recorded season highs in several important stat categories. The Dolphins shot a season best 47 percent from the field, pulled in a season high 38 rebounds and only turned the ball over 11 times, a season low. The Dolphins cruised to the tournament title after a 50-20 win over San Dimas on December 29.

Senior forward Katie Underwood, the team’s leading scorer, was named the tournament MVP and sophomore guard Serena Saba and freshman guard Maddy Bloom were named to the All-Tournament team.

The Dolphins were set to host Rancho Alamitos on January 3. Results were not available at press time. Next

GIRLS SOCCER • The Dolphins left the Mater Dei Premier Invitational with their unbeaten record still intact.

The Dolphins (5-0-3) opened the tournament with a 1-0 win over Los Alamitos on December 19 and followed that up with back-to-back draws against Bishop Amat and Foothill on December 20 and December 21, respectively. Molly Regan scored the lone Dolphin goal in the team’s 1-1 draw against Bishop Amat. In the game against Foothill, the Dolphins’ Tiana Salazar’s early goal gave Dana Hills a 1-0 lead at halftime, but a second half equalizer by Foothill ensured another 1-1 draw.

As of December 17, the Dolphins were ranked No. 3 in the CIF-SS Division 1 Coaches Poll, two spots ahead of No. 5 San Clemente—their next opponent. Next Game: 1/8 vs. San Clemente, 4:30 p.m.

GIRLS WATER POLO • The Dolphins have not played a game since their 10-8 win over Warren on December 14.

Next Game: 1/8 vs. San Clemente, 4:15 p.m.

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com

FOR RENT DANA POINT HARBOR OCEAN VIEW CONDO WITH POOL!! 2 Amazing 2 bedroom, 2 bath gated condo with panoramic ocean view from your balcony. Includes W/D hook ups, upgraded flooring & restrooms, recessed lighting, new paint & appliances.

2 underground parking spaces available. Property is ready to move in! Please call (909) 391-2129 for more detail information or viewing.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references.

949-456-2376

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 102

Locals Only

BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING Nona Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.2275 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com

AUTO REPAIR Dana Point Auto 949.496.1086 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629

BEAUTY SALONS Mobile Salon Malina www.salonmalina.com

DERMATOLOGY Vorteil Dermatology and Aesthetic Science 33971 Selva Road, Ste. 200, www.vorteildermatology.com

949.276.2600

PET GROOMING Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, www.alphadoggroomshop.com

ELECTRICAL

delta G electrical 949.360.9282 PLUMBING CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com Chick’s Plumbing www.chicks-plumbing.com

HAIR SALONS

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, pat.powers@cox.net State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204 www.tedbowersox.com San Clemente Computer & Network Services 949.240.8944 daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net Mills Construction 949.212.7699 Dana Point, www.millsbuilds.com: CA # 973483

LOCKSMITH Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

949.496.9731

949.498.1025

PRINT SHOP

ICE CREAM Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING

949.496.3315

PRESCHOOLS

Mobile Salon Malina 949.500.2909 San Clemente Preschool www.salonmalina.com 949.496.1957 163 Avenida Victoria, 949.500.2909 The Captain’s Chair 20 Monarch Bay Plaza, www.thecaptainschairdp.com www.sanclementepreschool.com

CAFE - DELI

COSMETICS

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com

949.496.6916

Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 949.661.3984 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, Kenny’s Music & Guitars 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com www.marykay.com/madams2

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT VORTEIL (pronounced four-tile) is the first and only aesthetic dermatology center to focus exclusively on men’s skin and hair. Founded by a board-certified dermatologist, Vorteil specializes in hair restoration surgery for male pattern baldness and minimally invasive procedures to treat wrinkles, aging, leg veins, acne scarring, and other skin conditions. 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 200, 949.276.2600, www.vorteildermatology.com

Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 UPHOLSTERY beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net 949.240.2292 Printing OC 949.388.4888 Dana Point Upholstery 24402 Del Prado 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com PSYCHOTHERAPY Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION Offshore Construction www.offshoreconstruction.org

949.444.6323

WINDOW CLEANING

Surterre Properties Monarch Beach, 949.464.3243 Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. 949.215.2323 McDaniel Gilmore Group www.baysidewindowcleaning.com 33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629 Clear Windows 949.485.8793 www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com

SURFBOARD REPAIRS

Dylan’s Ding Repairs 949.607.9406 www.facebook.com/dylansdingrepairs

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

DP SURF

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SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK Colton Overin Age: 16, San Clemente High School Colton Overin has scaled his competition schedule back a bit this season to devote more time to schoolwork and concentrating his surfing efforts toward high school team events. “It’s been great because it’s given me some down time to focus on school and working as a lifeguard at the new San Clemente Aquatics Center,” he said. Colton contributed greatly to his team’s winning season and is looking forward to league individuals later this month. He understands the importance of his junior year for keeping up his grades and exploring college options. “I’m thinking about going to the California Maritime Academy to become a ship captain,” Colton said. “I’m working on getting my ‘Bs’ up to ‘As’. It’s hard trying to juggle everything, but it’s manageable if you stay on top of it.” While excellence in school, surfing and lifeguarding are high on his list Colton Overin. Photo by Andrea Swayne of goals for the New Year, he also said he will continue to work at being a good friend and surrounding himself with quality people. “The guys on our surf team are all great kids. It’s really nice to be surrounded by such good people who have good grades and do well in the water and out of the water. It’s really a good group of people,” Colton said. He also wanted to give a shout-out to his local sponsors, Catch Surf, Let’s Party Traction and Kaysen Surfboards, and to send his love and a big “thank you” to his mom, sister and brother for all of their support.—Andrea Swayne

SC Surfer Survives Near Drowning at Cortes Bank Greg Long tells the story of the incident, thanks rescuers, concerned friends, fans

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

G

reg Long, professional big wave surfer from San Clemente, issued a statement describing a near-drowning incident at Cortes Bank, Mexico on December 21 that nearly cost him his life.

Long was part of a group of some of the world’s best and most experienced big wave surfers and photographers who traveled to the break, to ride the 25-foot-plus waves hitting in the area.

Cortes Bank, a shallowly submerged island about 100 miles west of San Diego’s Point Loma, is a popular destination for elite big wave riders. It is part of the Channel Islands chain and is situated roughly 50 miles southwest of San Clemente Island.

Long is back home in San Clemente following his release from UCSD Medical Center. He was airlifted there by the Coast Guard after being pulled from the water, unconscious, after surviving a brutal beating and three-wave hold down.

When we caught up with Long on Christmas Eve, he said he was doing well and wanted to extend his thanks to all who contacted the DP Times to inquire about his condition. “ Tell everybody I wish them the happiest of holidays and I am sending the most love, light, respect and gratitude to them all,” he said.

In his statement, Long describes the incident and expresses his gratitude for the team who rescued him. Here is what he had to say: “Thank you to the entire community of friends, family and well-wishers for your concern, your outpouring of love, support and prayers, following the serious wipeout I experienced while surfing at the Cortes Bank on Friday, December 21.

“I am home, following a 24-hour stay in the UCSD Hospital in San Diego for precautionary observation as a result of the near drowning experience and blunt Dana Point Times January 4–10, 2013

UPCOMING EVENTS January 5-6: WSA Championship Series, Event No. 6, Midget Smith Pier Rat Challenge, San Clemente, Pier January 12: SSS Orange County Middle School and High School, Event No. 3, Oceanside, Pier January 20-21: Surfing America Prime West, Event No. 4, Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane February 2: SSS Orange County Middle School and High School, Event No. 4, San Clemente, Pier February 9-10: Surfing America Prime West, Event No. 5, San Onofre State Beach, Upper Trestles February 9: NSSA Southwest Explorer, Event No. 8, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty

SURF FORECAST Photographer Jason Murray shot these photos of Greg Long during last month’s trip to Cortes Bank. During the December 21 session, Long was rendered unconscious by a three-wave hold down that nearly cost him his life. He was rescued and airlifted to San Diego where he spent a day in the hospital before returning home to San Clemente.

trauma injuries I suffered from the impact of a sequence of four large waves, and a three-wave hold down. I had taken off on the second wave of a four-wave set and was forced to straighten out. After enduring an extremely violent and long hold down, I barely broke the surface and was attempting to grab a breath of air, when I received the full impact of the lip from the third and largest wave of the set.

“All of my breath was knocked out of me. I nearly lost consciousness at this point and was again driven deep and was subjected to a furious beating. I attempted to swim to the surface as the energy of the wave began to release me, but only made a few strokes before the next wave passed overhead, pushing me back down. As this beating started to subside, I began climbing my leash, hoping to break the surface before passing out. I made it to the tail of my board while it was still submerged in the turbulent and aerated water, at which

point I blacked out from CO2 saturation and lack of oxygen.

“Three rescue skis operated by D.K. Walsh, Jon Walla and Frank Quirarte were tracking me following the initial wipeout.

After a fourth and smaller white water had passed, I was quickly located, floating face down alongside my surfboard by D.K. Walsh. D.K. abandoned his ski, jumping in the water in order to raise my head above the surface. Jon Walla arrived on his ski, and together they pulled me onto the rescue sled. I began regaining consciousness during the ride back to the support boat we were operating from.

“Several other rescuers assisted getting me onboard at which point I began vomiting the small amount of water I had aspirated and a large amount of blood, which I later learned was from a combination of the blunt force trauma of impact and the rupturing of capillaries due to extreme breath holding. I was stabilized onboard the boat by the lifeguards and paramedics who were part of our safety team, and a Coast Guard helicopter was summoned to transport me back to San Diego.

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Water Temp: 55-58˚F Water visibility, conditions: San Clemente: 6-10’ Poor+, Catalina: 10-15’ Poor-Fair Forecast: West-Northwest swell eases Friday and through the weekend, as a minor new Southern Hemi swell blends in.

The surf will drop from the 3-4’ (waistchest high) range on Friday into the 2-3’+ (knee-waist-chest high+) range over the weekend. Conditions are favorable Friday and into Saturday morning, then become a little dicey on Sunday as a low approaches the region. Check out Surfline for all the details!

“Having trained for extreme breath holding, at no point did I allow myself to panic or lose confidence that I was going to survive this incident. I do, however, fully acknowledge that I did exceed my limits of endurance, and that there will always be elements of risk and danger that are beyond my control while surfing waves of any size. Because of those elements of risk, I have always insisted on working with individuals that share my focus on training and preparation. Humbly, I express my deepest gratitude to the team of rescuers and fellow surfers who’s training and precise response contributed to saving my life.” DP www.danapointtimes.com