November 15, 2013

VOTE FOR THE “BEST OF DANA POINT” AT WWW.DANAPOINTTIMES.COM N OV E M B E R 1 5 -2 1 , 2 0 1 3

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 46

Reaching for New Heights Doheny Hotel developer seeks city height variance to build over 35-foot limit E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

An architect’s rendering shows the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive with an image of the proposed two- to five-story, 258-room Doheny Hotel. Courtesy of Langdon Wilson International

www.danapointtimes.com

4 Marines Killed in Camp Pendleton Accident, Officials Say

Around Town: Dana Point Salutes Veterans

Healthy Lineup Powers Dolphins Volleyball to CIF Second Round

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

DP LIVING/PAGE 11

SPORTS/PAGE 12

EYE ON DP

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Admission is free, for this weekly market at La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza St. Call 949.573.5033 or visit www.danapoint.org for more.

DP

Read to a Dog 11 a.m. Children can practice reading aloud to a trained therapy dog at the OC Dana Point Library. Registration is suggested by not required. Call the library for more information, 949.496.5517.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19 City Council Meeting—Cancelled.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Blood Drive Noon to 6 p.m. The American Red Cross hosts a blood drive at City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for more information and to schedule a donation. Blood drives will also be held at Capo Beach Church on November 20 and at Dana Hills High School on November 22.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18 Community Recycling Event 9 a.m.–11 a.m. Residents can drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans at Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern for students to collect and sort. For more information, email president@dhhsptsa.com.

D a n a Po i nt

Planning Commission Meeting 5:30 p.m. The commission will hold study sessions on the Doheny Hotel proposal and parking in Dana Point’s Town Center. Meetings held at City Hall, Council Chambers, at 33282 Golden Lantern.

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

… a Fatal Camp Pendleton Accident?

THE LATEST: Four U.S. Marines were killed Wednesday during a range maintenance operation at Camp Pendleton, military officials confirmed.

The Marines were clearing a training area of obstructions in the Zulu impact area, in the northern interior of the base, around 11 a.m. when the incident occurred, said Marine spokesman Cpl. Michael Iams. The event is being considered accidental, he said.

“We offer our heartfelt prayers and condolences to the families of the Marines lost today in this tragic accident,” said Brigadier General John W. Bullard, commanding general of the Marine Corps base in a statement. “Our first priority is to provide the families with the support they need during this difficult time.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. The names and ages of the Marines killed were not immediately released as officials work to notify their families.

FIND OUT MORE: Follow us on Twitter @danapointtimes for the latest.

—Andrea Papagianis and Jim Shilander

2

… Town Center?

THE LATEST: As construction crews work their way down Pacific Coast Highway, replacing water and sewer lines for future downtown development, the city is looking to answer a few remaining questions surrounding its Town Center, specifically regarding parking.

On Monday, November 19, the Planning Commission will host a study session with the firm contracted to develop a downtown Dana Point Times November 15–21, 2013

parking plan. Meetings are held at City Hall, Council Chambers at 33283 Golden Lantern, and begin at 5:30 p.m.

San Francisco-based Nelson/Nygaard Consulting Associates were contracted to handle the task in October. The firm also worked on San Clemente’s parking plan for Avenida Del Mar, which has a mix of time restricted and metered street parking, as well as city leased private lots.

timeline for a district study on the needs of high school students in the development, including where they will be housed. This could mean the expansion of San Juan Hills or Tesoro high schools, or setting aside land for a school inside the development.

FIND OUT MORE: See more on the agreement at www.danapointtimes.com.—JS

WHAT’S NEXT: Two other outreach workshops will be held on Tuesday, November 20 and Wednesday, November 21 at the Dana Point Community House, located at 24624 San Juan Avenue. The first is geared toward residents and the second toward commercial property and business owners. Both meetings begin at 5:30 p.m.

The consulting firm will take information gathered at meetings along with city data, parking ordinances, trolley route plans and parking studies for their final parking report.

FIND OUT MORE: Read more about Town Center parking at www.danapointtimes. com by searching “parking.”—AP

3

… Rancho Mission Viejo?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees approved a final agreement with the developers of Rancho Mission Viejo last week, providing a framework for the financing of school facilities in Planning Areas 1 and 2, just outside San Juan Capistrano.

The agreement sets up funding the district will receive from developers of the property for elementary and middle school facilities. It also gives homeowners the opportunity to raise additional funding if full state funds are not available for the construction of school sites.

WHAT’S NEXT: The agreement sets a

4

… Medicinal Marijuana?

THE LATEST: A state appellate court has upheld a lower court’s ruling that a medicinal marijuana user lacked standing in his lawsuit against the city of Dana Point.

The ruling by the California 4th District Court of Appeals affirmed an Orange County Superior Court judge’s ruling last year that San Clemente resident and medicalmarijuana user Jeff Schwartz did not have standing to file suit, because he failed to establish that the city’s zoning code infringed upon a legally protected right.

In April 2012, Schwartz alleged the city’s municipal code crackdown on dispensaries violated his right as a patient to control his own health care decisions.

Schwartz, an attorney, was a member of Beach Cities Collective, whom he represented in litigation with the city prior to his own lawsuit. Schwartz also represented fellow Beach Cities member, Malinda Traudt, a blind and ill San Clemente woman, who unsuccessfully sued the city.

WHAT’S NEXT: The appellate court said that although Schwartz did not have convenient access to medicinal marijuana, the city had not prohibited him from cultivating, processing or using it. The court also found that neither the state’s Compassionate Care Act nor the Medical Marijuana Program created a right to convenient access of marijuana.

The appellate court’s decision was filed

Page 3

October 25.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.danapointtimes.com to read about Dana Point’s fight against marijuana dispensaries.—AP

5

… CUSD Mello-Roos Funds?

THE LATEST: Talega residents voiced strong displeasure at the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday, November 6 on their vote to hold off returning funds to taxpayers, from a recent district refinancing.

In August, the board voted 6-0 to hold off on returning $17.4 million from a community financing district, or Mello-Roos, used to pay for facility needs at San Juan Hills High School, Vista Del Mar and San Clemente High School. Board president and Talega resident John Alpay recused himself. The board said there were concerns about facility needs at SCHS, such as the deteriorating condition of the pool, Triton Center and roof in different areas.

Trustee Jim Reardon said the board had expected to hear from more Talega and San Clemente residents at the meeting, noting that the vote reflected a lack of such input.

Talega residents told the board last week they weren’t made aware of the vote in August, which was why no one appeared at the board meeting to oppose it. Resident Laura Ferguson presented the board with a petition signed by more than 250 residents asking them to reconsider.

WHAT’S NEXT: Superintendent Joseph Farley said the board would be unwise to make any decision regarding the funding, as the district is conducting a full survey of the needs at SCHS this year.

FIND OUT MORE: Read more on the story at www.danapointtimes.com.—JS www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Reaching for New Heights Doheny Hotel developer seeks city height variance to build over 35-foot limit

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

V

isitors to Dana Point currently pass under a landmark pedestrian bridge only to be greeted by gateway street corners occupied by a vacant lot home to seasonal produce sales, a Denny’s diner, a gas station, a vacant liquor store and fast food chains.

One developer has a vision to change this with the addition of a new hotel, but area residents aren’t so sure he has the city’s best interests in mind. Numerous letters submitted to the Dana Point Times and online commenters have produced mixed-results, some welcoming change to the street corner, and others, wholeheartedly calling for alternatives to the proposed hotel’s development.

The Proposal Michael Draz, chief executive officer of the hotel’s developer Beverly Hills Hospitality Group, started acquiring land in Dana Point in 2006. Draz attended a friend’s wedding at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, when he fell in love with the town, he said. He began purchasing land at the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive, eventually piecing together 1.5 acres.

The developer submitted a city application in 2009 to construct a 258-room, two- to five-story hotel on three adjoining parcels of land, now home to a Jack in the Box restaurant, a vacant storefront and the 46-room Dana Point Harbor Inn, all of which would be demolished for the hotel project.

Plans for the hotel include conference rooms, restaurants, rooftop amenities, such as pools, gardens and bars on both the second and fifth floors, and an underground parking structure with about 275 spaces. It is Draz’s hope that the proposed amenities would garner the hotel a fourstar status.

In October, Draz said major hotel developers, like the Chicago-based Hyatt Hotels Corporation, have expressed early interest in the project but added that contractual commitments from companies like Hyatt depend on the hotel’s actual amenities.

One thing riding on the proposed hotel’s four-star status, Draz believes, is the height.

The Height Issue The hotel proposal was first introduced to the Dana Point City Council and public Dana Point Times November 15–21, 2013

Doheny Hotel developer, Beverly Hills Hospitality Group, began acquiring three connecting parcels along Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive in 2006. An existing Jack in the Box, vacant building and hotel would have to be leveled to make room for the proposed 258-room hotel. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

in 2011. After a public scoping meeting and numerous responses raised issue with the plans—specifically traffic, noise, parking and the hotel’s proposed height—the city determined an environmental-impact report was necessary.

A 302-page draft report, prepared by Irvine-based UltraSystems, was released earlier this summer for public review, bringing the project back into the limelight after nearly two years off the radar.

In order to move forward with the project as planned, the developer would need a variance for the city’s height limit of 35 feet, said Ursula Luna-Reynosa, the city’s community development director.

The proposed hotel varies in height from two stories to five, with its highest point standing at 60.5 feet tall. While the EIR reflects a height of 86.5 feet, the architect did not account for the site’s elevation, Luna-Reynosa said. Staff has corrected the document, but it will not be recirculated because the impact is being lessened as opposed to increased, she said.

“I would not be so insulted and aggravated by this presumptuous move of theirs (the developer) if they had presented a primary Doheny Hotel plan that worked within the current 35 foot limit,” said Dana Point resident Philip Krajeski, in an email to the Dana Point Times. Krajeski said he feared any height variance approval would set a precedent in the city.

That is something, Luna-Reynosa said would not happen.

This would not be the first heightvariance approved within Dana Point, Luna-Reynosa said, but it could be one of the first granted by the city since its incorporation in 1989.

Other major hotel projects in Dana Point, with the exception of the St. Regis, occurred before the city’s incorporation, meaning the Orange County Board of

Supervisors approved any development plans pushing for higher limits, said Erica Demkowicz, a senior city planner.

According to Luna-Reynosa and Demkowicz, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel; DoubleTree Suites Doheny Beach and Best Western Plus Marina Shores Hotel, all required height variances, but each was dependent on the topography of the sites they occupy.

“The way you measure the height of a project is based on the land’s topography,” said Luna-Reynosa. “So, it is not always apples to apples.”

As required under the California Environmental Quality Act, the report included “significant irreversible” and “unavoidable environmental impacts” and “changes.”

The report determined that the development would have “unavoidable significant adverse impacts” to aesthetics and land use, but would not significantly change scenic views. The findings were attributed to the site’s hilly topography and the building being set back from the roadway.

Additionally, the EIR provided four project alternatives that would “feasibly attain most of the basic objectives of the project” while lessening the environmental impact.

This included a four story building, and one with three stories, which would fall within the city’s height restrictions. Both of these alternatives would significantly decrease the project’s guest room capacity, from 258 accommodations to 188 and 144, respectively.

Draz said neither alternative is a financially viable one, and could hinder the hotel’s chances of being awarded four stars.

“What interests me is higher property values, not whether the hotel is threestars, four-stars or no stars,” said Krajeski.

“I want to chop the Doheny Hotel to make it fit within our height restrictions.”

Page 4

Concerns with Traffic and Parking The developer has plans for a driveway entrance on Dana Point Harbor Drive, between PCH and Park Lantern, which provides access to Lantern Bay Park, the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa and Doheny State Beach.

In response to traffic concerns, the developer is proposing adding a rightturn-only lane from eastbound PCH to Dana Point Harbor Drive and widening the roadway at Park Lantern to allow vehicles to make U-turns for PCH access, said Coralee Newman, with Government Solutions Inc., the developer’s communications consultant.

“It doesn’t block a view, it improves the traffic and it brings a lot of benefits, because it enhances a sense of arrival to the city of Dana Point, Doheny State Beach and the Harbor,” Draz said.

Initial plans stated that the developer would increase its offered parking for guests and employees utilizing an off-site lot. The developer suggested supplementing its parking needs with 50 spots using land owned by the South Coast Water District. But at a government affairs meeting hosted by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce in October, Wayne Rayfield, president of the SCWD board, said the plans were outdated and the district currently has other plans for its land.

Newman said, since the meeting, the developer has looked at other options but has not confirmed anything as of yet. She added, the development only needed an additional seven spaces to fulfill the city’s parking requirements.

The Public’s Chance to Weigh In While the public comment period has closed on the Environmental Impact Report, community members still have opportunities to hear, and weigh in on, the project.

Story poles will be erected on the property demonstrating the various heights of the proposed hotel through Wednesday, November 20.

On Saturday, November 16, the Planning Commission will gather at the site for a meeting. This meeting is open to the public, as commissioners will work to familiarize themselves with the property.

Commissioners and city staff will be onsite at 9 a.m., said Luna-Reynosa.

The hotel’s plans will be presented to the commission on Monday, November 18 at its meeting starting at 5:30 p.m. No vote will be taken on the project, as this is just a study session re-introducing commissioners and the public to the project.

A public hearing will follow on Monday, December 9, at which time a vote on the project could be made, Luna-Reynosa said. If significant questions remain and public comments go long, the hearing could be continued, she said. Planning Commission meetings are held at City Hall, Council Chambers, located at 33282 Golden Lantern. DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Local Locksmith Remembered Longtime business owner Miles Kemp dies at 75 ago when Kemp limped his locksmith van into the automotive shop Jensen where worked. Jensen said because of the nickname he didn’t know his friend’s last name ongtime Dana Point locksmith, busifor at least five years, “Everyone called ness owner and dedicated Chamber him Mr. Miles.” of Commerce member Miles Guy Kemp was an active member of the Kemp passed away suddenly on Tuesday, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and October 29 from a pulmonary embolism. volunteered annually for the chamber’s He was 75.

Thanksgiving Day race, the Turkey Trot.

Known to many locally as Mr. Miles, The family has asked in lieu Kemp was born in St. Louis of flowers that donations be on April 12, 1938. Kemp made to the Wounded Warrelocated to Southern riors Foundation.

California where he had two “When it comes to takchildren, Jami and Brett. ing care of veterans and Kemp made Dana Point his supporting our troops, it home in the early ’80s. He was something that he held would remain here until his very fondly and wanted all death last month. to appreciate the sacrifices Kemp served his commuour military members have nity for more than 30 years. made,” Rick Adams said As a local locksmith, Kemp of his father-in-law, whose knew his community too.

Miles Kemp. Courtesy photo last charitable donation was From work with the city of made to the foundation.

Dana Point and close ties to local realtors, Kemp is survived by his daughter Jami, Kemp was the go-to lock and key man in and her husband Rick Adams of Ladera town.

Ranch; son Brett of Covina; grandchildren “He always prided himself on taking Kayla and Sawyer; and niece Lori and her care of his customers and doing his job husband Ed Reifsteck of St. Charles, Mo. well,” said longtime friend Bill Jensen.

DP The two became fast friends 20 years

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

L

DP Sheriff’s Blotter

supermarket at Monarch Beach Plaza.

The caller estimated two to three people were living there.

DISTURBANCE Beach Road/Pacific Coast Highway (12:39 a.m.) A caller reported three young men near Capistrano Beach, who were playing loud music from their vehicle, appeared to be under the influence of drugs. The trio was also overheard talking about using methamphetamines.

SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMPILED BY QUINN CONWAY 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 website.

FRIDAY, November 8 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Doheny Park Road/Victoria Boulevard (8:59 p.m.) Medical assistance was requested when the attendant at the 76 gas station was found lying on the ground in the back room.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Crown Valley Parkway (1:09 p.m.) A transient camp was reported in the ravine behind Gelson’s

ROBBERY IN PROGRESS Del Prado Avenue, 24800 Block (9:49 a.m.) A victim was beaten up and robbed of his backpack near the recycling center behind the Ralphs grocery store.

THURSDAY, November 7 SUSPICIOUS PERSON Pacific Coast Highway/Street of the Crystal Lantern (7:44 p.m.) A caller contacted deputies after seeing a young man who matched the description of a Riverside man with autism who had reportedly gone missing in the Cleveland National Forest.

The subject was seen walking near the Dana Point Pedestrian Bridge and talking to himself. The 18-year-old man was described as being 6 feet tall with dark hair and a thin build.

To read more Orange County Sheriff’s blotter entries, visit www.danapointtimes.com.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Papagianis, 949.388.7700, x112 apapagianis@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

DP

DS aannCale m

Poe ni ntet

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US

PRINT AND ONLINE

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

Dana Point Times, Vol. 6, Issue 46. 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.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

ART/DESIGN

OPERATIONS

EDITORIAL

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Finance Director > Mike Reed

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Accounting Manager Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne

RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@danapointtimes.com

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

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

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

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

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Quinn Conway, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

GUEST OPINION: By the Dana Point Town Center Organization

Dana Point is Building its Field of Dreams Town Center project to make the city’s long-awaited downtown a reality

I

n 1926, the combo of Harry Chandler, “General” M.H. Sherman and Sidney Woodruff created the Dana Point Syndicate, and on 1,388 acres began what is known today as Dana Point.

The city of Dana Point initiated two years of community meetings in 2004 to discuss a pathway for the creation of something missing from our seaside community, a downtown, which has taken on the moniker Town Center. The vision, under the guidance of consulting firm ROMA Design Group, morphed into an exciting opportunity for property owners, entrepreneurs, citizens and tourists.

The City Council adopted the Town Center Plan in 2006, and in 2008 the California Coastal Commission approved required modifications to the plan. The project was stalled for about five years due to the economic downturn, but now the wait is over and the project is moving forward.

During that time, city staff worked to secure rights of way on Pacific Coast

Highway and Del Prado Avenue, and began implementing landscape improvements along the couplet. In September 2013, the South Coast Water District was willing to show their support by sticking their shovel in the ground to upgrade their water and sewer lines, well in advance of required future improvements.

The city will soon be next up to implement its new traffic plan by improving intersections, creating new turn lanes and addressing on-street parking as both PCH and Del Prado revert to two-way roadways.

City Manager Doug Chotkevys remarked in an October update that the downtime created by the recession allowed the city to better prepare for the project.

For example, it gave Public Works Director Brad Fowler the opportunity to better engineer the project in a way that will meet all of the original goals and save the city approximately $3 million. Recently hired Director of Community Development Ursula Luna-Reynosa is working with parking consultants to develop a

solution to potential Town Center parking challenges.

Commercial properties are changing hands, vacant lots are either being acquired or readied for development, and when the dust finally settles a few short years from now, this vision will have become a reality. No doubt there will be some hiccups, a few unpleasant traffic snarls, a ruffled feather or two, but we must keep our eye on the prize.

Our own little stretch of downtown space we can be proud to call our Town Center will include a mixture of upgraded shops, new and/or improved restaurants and pedestrian-friendly settings to simply sit, read the newspaper, enjoy a cup of your favorite beverage and people watch.

Palm Desert has “El Paseo,” Brea has “Downtown Brea” and Solana Beach has “Cedros Street.” These are great examples of how cities create positive landscapes for residents, visitors, walkers, joggers and bicyclists to enjoy within their communities. Developments like these create

new opportunities for everyone through increased property values, an improved business environment, increased city revenues in sales and property taxes and a great sense of pride from the community at large.

The Dana Point “field of dreams” is at long last becoming a reality. It is being built under the guidance and support of our city staff, led by Chotkevys, and with the unanimous support of our current city council members. Someday soon when the vibe is on Del Prado and PCH we can all revel in the thought that “we built it and they came.”

The Dana Point Town Center Organization is made up of local business leaders, property owners and development interests supporting the completion of the project. DP

experiences. Each time we see the ocean, islands and sunset, it’s like the first time and always exciting.

It was very difficult to see my City Council sell the Via Canyon parkland. It was purchased at the same time as Creekside Park. From the moment Creekside Park was completed, it has been one of the most popular facilities in south Orange County. One would think the council would have at least considered improving Via Canyon, especially after more than 200 signatures were gathered, in two days, requesting the park.

The staff could have pointed out that its

master plan of parks recommends the city acquire approximately 23 additional acres to meet current needs and 55 acres to meet the 2025 goals. It also quotes Frederick Law Ohmstead, “While there are many things, both great and small, which may contribute to the beauty of a great city, unquestionably one of the greatest is a comprehensive system of parks and parkways.”

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com.

Letters to the Editor WHAT IS A PARK WORTH? RICHARD GARDNER, Capistrano Beach

I guess you could add up the cost of the turf, the sprinklers, trees and walkways.

The play equipment and drinking fountains aren’t cheap. But a park is worth more than that.

When my granddaughter had her fourth birthday, family came from far and wide and that memory is worth a lot to me. A park provides a place where strangers and neighbors can meet and experience the common good. Sometimes a park offers a place of solitude when you really need to Dana Point Times November 15-21, 2013

get in touch with yourself. Don’t forget the young lovers who stroll around sharing their feelings, and the pet owners and parents, young and old, enjoying a sunrise or sunset.

Whether it is a tiny gazebo or a major gathering place for concerts, each park is as unique as the people who enjoy them.

The value of the park is unlimited as long as we enjoy and maintain them.

Parks actually provide a portal to nature and the special wild experience we enjoy.

Discovery is what connects us and causes us to marvel at wonders before us. Exploration has origins in our earliest sensory

Page 6

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

3

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

LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT: BROOKS ROBERTSON & JOHN STANDIFER 7:30 p.m.– 9:30 p.m. International award winning guitar duo performs at the Dana Point Community House as part of an ongoing concert series. Tickets $30. 24642 San Juan Ave., 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

15

SOCSA FALL PLAY: “A DOLL’S HOUSE” 7 p.m.

The South County School of the Arts performs their fall play, a dramatic examination of the traditional male and female roles in 19th century marriages, in Porthole Theater at Dana Hills High School. General admission $15. Shows Nov. 14-16. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.

saturday

BUBBLES & BITES 4 p.m.6 p.m. DaVine Food & Wine presents a special evening with wine from Iron Horse Winery and oysters from The Harbor Grill Restaurant.

Cost $30 for five tastes and oysters. RSVP recommended.

34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

16

BIDDING THE HERD FAREWELL Elephant Parade exhibit on display at Lantern Bay Park through Saturday A herd of Asian elephant statues will soon leave Dana Point’s shores for their new foreign and domestic homes as the Elephant Parade’s first American exhibit comes to a close. The openair exhibition benefitting The Asian Elephant Foundation has taken Dana Point’s streets, parks, docks and hotels by storm since August. Now, the 38 colorful elephant statues, created by local and international artists for the parade’s American unveiling, are gathered at Lantern Bay Park, at 25111 Park Lantern, through November 16 for a final community farewell. “This is the most beautiful backdrop we have ever had for Elephant Parade, and the public and people here are ecstatic,” said Mike Spits, co-founder of the foundation. “They really love the elephants.”

On Friday, November 15, the city will host a candlelight tribute at Lantern Bay Park beginning at 5 p.m. The following day, parade artists and environmental conservationists will be onsite giving talks and leading creative activities. On Sunday, November 17, about 20 elephant statAlexandria Strand, 10, from Capistrano Beach stopped by Lantern Bay Park on Vet- ues will be auctioned off at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa. Organizers are currently erans Day to visit the Elephant Parade herd. taking pre-bid offers at a minimum of $3,000, which includes two tickets to the charity auction. Tickets to the event are $175 per person and $300 for couples. To reserve a seat, email auction@elephantparade.com. Historically elephant sales average between $13,000 and $15,000, Spits said. No matter the cost, Spits said he hopes each elephant in Dana Point finds a home where they will be presented as the unique pieces they are.

CHRIS CRAM 8 p.m. Live music and dinner at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

NEPTUNE’S COVE FANTASY EVENT 10 a.m.-Noon.

Fantasy event for kids featuring a chance to dress up like a sea-going character and get photos. Every Saturday in the Upstairs Store. Cost $19.95-$29.95. 34505 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 970.744.8523.

THE TOLEDO SHOW 9 p.m. Film noir soul and femme fatale cabaret show at StillWater Spirits & Sounds.

Cover $5. 24701 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

sunday

DANA POINT HISTORY TOUR 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Docent-led walk that explores the history of Dana Point starting from the Nature Interpretive Center. RSVP. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, 949.542.4755, www.danapoint.org.

17

CASEY ABRAMS 7 p.m. American Idol contestant at The Coach House. $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

monday

COOKING CLASS: HOLIDAY OPEN-HOUSE 6:30 p.m. Cooking class at Antoine’s Café. $50 includes recipes, dinner and wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

18

tuesday

STORIES OF COURAGE AND COMPASSION 7 p.m.

Marty Brounstein presents his book Two Among the Righteous Few a true story of interfaith compassion and courage during the Holocaust. Held at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church. 33926 Calle la Primavera, Dana Point.

949.496.1307. www.martyabrounstein.com.

19

wednesday

FRED’S OPEN MIC NIGHT 8:30 p.m.-close.

Open mic night with Gary Wright every Wednesday at Fred’s Mexican Cafe.

32431 Golden Lantern, Laguna Niguel, 949.218.8508, www.fredsmexicancafe.com.

20

thursday

AN EVENING WITH MARTIN SHORT 8 p.m. The acclaimed comedian performs at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Tickets start at $39.

600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.

21

VON COTTON 7:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@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.

Dana Point Salutes Veterans Veterans Day commemoration highlights servicemen and women’s dedication to nation Text and photos by Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

A

s U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Major Donna Dunbar was called to the podium Monday she peeled herself from her young daughter’s grip. Her husband, Master Gunnery Sgt. Napoleon Dunbar, stood nearby.

The young girl’s hold on her mother loosened and her arms quickly wrapped tightly around her father’s neck, as Dunbar made her way before the hundreds gathered at Dana Point’s Veterans Memorial. Dunbar stood before the crowd and in a sign of gratitude removed her cap to the veterans, families and community members gathered this Veterans Day. “Some of the military veterans out here know the separation anxiety we face when we have to go far, far away … for the things we do,” said the 24-year U.S. Marine Corps servicewoman. “Many sacrifices that go unrecognized are, time and time again, the struggles of our families.”

Listening on, the family and friends of Army Spc. Brandon Prescott wiped away tears.

A 2006 graduate of Dana Hills High School, Prescott enlisted in the U.S. Army in April 2010 after working as a forest firefighter in Oregon. Three years later Prescott would receive a medal for heroism in action.

On May 4, Prescott and four other soldiers sustained fatal injuries while on patrol in the Maiwand district of Afghanistan’s Kandahar province. The members of the 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, stationed in Fort Bliss, Texas were on a nine-month deployment to the region.

That day, their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device, Prescott was killed. He was 24.

Prescott’s name was recently placed on the Veterans Memorial at Strand Vista Dana Point Times November 15-21, 2013

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Major Donna Dunbar salutes the flag as daughter Doniella holds tight.

Zoe Barnett holds her grandfather’s memorial flag.

Themistokles Katsaros served in the U.S. Army.

Courtesy photo

(L to R) Col. Tyler Guy, Alex Morgenstern, Russell Lane and Myrwood Guy celebrate Morgenstern getting his wings. Courtesy photo

Park, where his ashes were scattered this summer.

Monday, the names of Prescott and Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Nicholas L. McCaskill, of San Clemente, who was killed in Afghanistan in April, were dedicated on the memorial. Four members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934, who recently passed, were also unveiled at the ceremony.

“God bless those who have sacrificed so much to preserve the freedom that we enjoy today,” said Terry Rifkin, president of the

Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, after reading the names of Dana Point’s fallen service members. “These men and women will not be forgotten.”

The Veterans Memorial was first dedicated in April 2010 to commemorate five branches of service—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.

Each Veterans Day since, the city and VFW Post 9934 rededicate the monument to the men and women whose names are inscribed in the deep, grey granite, who

Page 11

fought and died.

“This weekend, culminating in today, throughout the country and our posts around the globe, people will gather to honor and pay gratitude to those who have served our country,” Dunbar said. “Our gathering here is just one small spark in the flame of pride that burns across the nation today.”

Other speakers of the event included Mayor Steven Weinberg; Maurice Hansen, commander of the local VFW post and Sharon Miller, president of the Ladies Auxiliary Post 9934. The ceremony was led by Brad Fowler, the city’s director of public works, who is retired from the U.S. Navy.

A four-member color guard from the Camp Pendleton-based Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39 was on hand to present the nation’s colors. Members of the community performed songs to honor veterans and Councilman Scott Schoeffel played “The Star Spangled Banner” on the electric violin.

A Scout Gets His Wings On Veterans Day, a new flag pole at South Shores Church was dedicated as a Veterans Memorial.

The project was spearheaded by Alex Morgenstern, 13, who earned his Eagle Scout wings by raising $5,000 to purchase the flagpole and construct the base.

Morgenstern joins the Boy Scouts of America’s elite by achieving the highest rank possible in scouting.

South Shores pastor and U.S. Air Force chaplain Tyler Guy and his father Myrwood Guy, dressed in their blues for the dedication ceremony. The pole stands in front of the church’s sanctuary at 32712 Crown Valley Parkway, where Morgenstern and his parents have been long time members of the church, and where Alex attended preschool.

For more pictures of Veterans Day, visit www.danapointtimes.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

D a n a Po i nt

Dolphin Report

By Steve Breazeale

HEALTHY DOLPHINS LINEUP POWERS TEAM TO SECOND ROUND OF VOLLEYBALL PLAYOFFS

The Dana Hills girls volleyball team advanced to the second round of the CIF-SS Division 1AA Championships with a win over Northwood on November 14. Photo by Alena Powers Davis

If the constant juggling of a lineup was a challenge for the Dana Hills girls volleyball team in the regular season, the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1AA playoffs proved to be an easy test.

The Dolphins, playing with a healthy lineup for the first time in weeks, coasted their way past visiting Northwood on Tuesday, punching their ticket into the second round of the tournament. The Dolphins were set to host Great Oak in the second round on November 14. Results were not available at press time.

The Dolphins led the Timberwolves from the get-go, winning in three straight sets 25-13, 25-18, 25-20.

Sophomore Ayla Fresenius, who was sidelined with a foot injury during the final stretch of league play, returned to the lineup, providing a presence up front against the relatively undersized Northwood squad. Fresenius, along with teammates Kendall Smith and Missy Shunk, helped keep the Northwood attack in check throughout the match. Smith had a team-high six blocks, Shunk tallied three and Fresenius had 2.5.

Northwood never threatened the Dana Hills lead in any of the first two sets. An 8-1 Dolphins run in the first paced them to a 25-13 opening set win. Dana Hills kept the pedal to the floor in the second and won 25-18.

The Timberwolves chipped away at the Dolphins lead in the third and final set, but the Dolphins were playing with only one starter, senior Tia Scambray, out on the Dana Point Times November 15–21, 2013

OUTDOOR SPOTLIGHT

DANA WHARF FISH COUNT

With the water temperature expected to drop in the coming weeks, the focus at Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching has been on rockfish. In his monthly press release, Captain Brian Woolley described how the productive fishing areas have been in the 220-260 foot range, which is an active area for not only rockfish, but whitefish, sculpin and salmon groupers as well. The first month of the Halibut Derby is officially in the books, with fish upwards of 10 pounds sitting atop the leaderboard.

11/13 • 48 anglers; 2 boats: 95 rockfish, 37 reds, 15 sheepshead, 10 sculpin, 3 blue perch, 2 whitefish, 2 lingcod.

11/12 • 28 anglers; 2 boats: 83 rockfish,

Dan Albright of Irvine is currently in second place in the Halibut Derby after catching this 10.6-pound halibut.

Courtesy photo

floor. The momentary loss of momentum, coupled with a mini late comeback by Northwood, opened Scambray’s eyes following the match.

“I would rate our effort at about six or a seven. I don’t think we were playing up to our maximum potential but we got the job done anyways,” Scambray said. “We just need to practice and I think, have a lot of heart. I think we need to have heart as a team to get as far as we want to.”

Scambray paced the team with 19 kills.

SAN JUAN HILLS DEFEATS DOLPHINS FOOTBALL TO CLAIM HISTORIC FIRST TITLE Before Friday night, no San Juan Hills football team had finished league play with a winning record. Before Friday night, no Stallions player had played in a game that meant so much.

But following Friday night’s game, this Stallions team can say that they are the first Sea View League champions in school history.

San Juan Hills put together a strong defensive effort against visiting Dana Hills, tallying 6.5 sacks and three interceptions on the night to win 28-21, finishing league play undefeated.

Dana Hills will now host Newport Harbor in the first round of the CIF-SS Southwest Division Championships on November 15.

The Stallions and Dolphins both consistently ran the ball in the opening two quarters, drawing each other to a standstill.

After driving down to the Stallions (9-1, 4-0 league) seven-yard line in the second quarter, Dana Hills (5-5, 3-1) quarterback Mac Vail lofted a pass to the corner of the end zone but was picked off by senior William Blum. It would be the first of two interceptions by Blum on the night.

San Juan Hills’ offense took advantage of the turnover and engineered a four play, 80-yard scoring drive that ended on a 49-yard touchdown pass from senior Jacob Gibson to junior Kolton McCluskey, making it 7-0 just before halftime.

The Stallions came into the second half with a renewed effort of stopping the Dolphins run game. After sacks

by Jacob Venegas and Curran Lapes forced a Dolphins three-and-out, Stallions senior Tim Newman returned the ensuing punt 64 yards for a touchdown to make it 14-0.

Brennan Walsh, Newman, Brandon Leggett and Trey Clauser also recorded sacks for San Juan Hills on the night.

“We worked on controlling the line of scrimmage all week and it pulled through in the game. We were just making plays. It was huge and just gave us the momentum,” Walsh said.

After the Stallions scored again on a 10-yard touchdown pass from Gibson to Mike Miscione, Dana Hills went on a Page 12

43 sculpin, 22 sand dabs, 17 sheepshead, 16 vermillion rockfish, 8o sand bass, 8 whitefish, 2 calico bass, 1 lingcod, 1 triggerfish.

11/11 • 110 anglers; 4 boats: 195 sand dabs, 182 sculpin, 159 rockfish, 22 sheepshead, 17 sand bass, 14 vermillion rockfish, 10 whitefish, 2 blue perch, 1 calico bass, 1 halibut.

11/10 • 107 anglers; 3 boats: 29 sand bass, 21 mackerel, 19 rockfish, 14 blue perch, 13 calico bass, 9 sheepshead, 3 sculpin, 1 halibut, 1 whitefish.

11/9 • 126 anglers; 3 boats: 173 rockfish, 81 sculpin, 33 sand dabs, 21 whitefish, 15 boccacio, 12 mackerel, 90 sheepshead, 8 sand bass, 6 reds, 1 rock wrass, 1 calico bass.

— Compiled by Steve Breazeale

fourth-quarter scoring spree.

Dolphins junior running back Brian Scott punched in a touchdown from three yards out, Vail connected on a 47yard touchdown pass to Reid Lundeen and, after recovering an onside kick, Vail threw another touchdown pass to Lundeen, from 21 yards out, to bring it to 28-21 in the blink of an eye.

But the clock had already wound down and the damage was done. San Juan Hills, who were the owners of an 0-10 record two seasons ago, was not to be denied.

DOLPHINS TENNIS PLAYOFF RUN ENDS IN QUARTERFINALS

The Dana Hills girls tennis team lost to University in the quarterfinals of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships on November 11. Courtesy photo

The Dana Hills girls tennis team cruised past Notre Dame and Santa Margarita in the first two rounds of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships but were brought to a sudden halt in the quarterfinals.

The Dolphins squared off against University on November 11 and were defeated 13-5.

University, who knocked Dana Hills out of the playoffs last season, swept the Dolphins in singles play and won five out of nine points available in the doubles format to seal the win.

DOLPHINS TOPPLE EAGLES IN WATER POLO PLAYOFF OPENER Three goals from both Grady Williams and Spencer Likins, coupled with a strong second-half defensive effort, pushed the Dana Hills boys water polo team past Santa Margarita in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs on November 13.

The Dolphins jumped out to an early 3-0 lead, but saw that shrink to just a one goal advantage when the score stood at 4-3 after two quarters.

The Dolphins were able to separate in the second half, outscoring the Eagles 4-2 down the stretch. Dana Hills will travel to play Newport Harbor on November 16 in the quarterfinals. www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE QUEEN PILLOW TOP MATTRESS AND BOX SPRING. Brand New. Never Used. Still in Manufacturers sealed plastic with warranty. $195 Call 949-436-6850

GARAGE SALES EVERYTHING BUT THE GARAGE SALE Capistrano Beach on Saturday, December 7 Time: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: 26326 Via California, in Capistrano Beach. Items: Sports equipment, men’s and women’s clothing, tools, kitchenware, electronics and much more.

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

GARAGE SALE FUNDRAISER - SAT., NOV 16 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Fundraiser for The Ark of San Juan animal rescue near Plant Depot and San Juan Hills Golf at: 32219 Via Barrida, San Juan Capistrano, 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

GARAGE SALE Saturday, Nov.16th, 7am. Sale includes Furniture, Clothing, Sporting Goods, Toys and much more!

255052 Calle Jardin, San Juan Capistrano,

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

PET GROOMING

ELECTRICAL

delta G electrical 949.360.9282 Dawgy Style CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, www.alphadoggroomshop.com

ICE CREAM

Nona Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.2275 Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

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

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

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

CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING Mills Construction 949.212.7699 Dana Point, www.millsbuilds.com: CA # 973483

DERMATOLOGY Vorteil Dermatology and 949.276.2600 Aesthetic Science 33971 Selva Road, Ste. 200, www.vorteildermatology.com

INSURANCE SERVICES Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, pat.powers@cox.net State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204 www.tedbowersox.com Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net

LOCKSMITH Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

949.496.6916

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL 949.496.3315

PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection www.atozleakdetection.com Chick’s Plumbing www.chicks-plumbing.com

Dream Team Properties 949.481.1788 Mike Rosenberg, Broker Capistrano Beach, www.FindMyOCHome.com

UPHOLSTERY 949.240.9569 949.499.4464 Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com 949.496.9731

POOL SERVICE & REPAIR Palisades Pool Service & Repair 949.542.7232 Capistrano Beach, allenesommo@cox.net

PRESCHOOLS

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION

Offshore Construction www.offshoreconstruction.org

949.444.6323

WINDOW TINTING Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

949.215.2323

San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, www.sanclementepreschool.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 PSYCHIATRY 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Dr. Robert Dobrin, M.D. 949-707-4757 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry/Behavioral Pediatrics 33971 Selva Rd. Ste, 125

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

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

DP SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK MATT ECONOMOS

Age: 12, Shorecliffs Middle School Matt Economos was inspired to start surfing by his older brother just over a year ago and, with the help of his brother and dad, has since become an avid and enthusiastic longboarder.

“My brother kept asking me to go along. I decided to give it a try after seeing him come home super stoked all the time, talking about how the waves were super good. I thought, ‘I wish I could do that.’ I gave it a try and loved it,” Matt said. He now competes in Scholastic Surf Series events as a member of the Shorecliffs Middle School team. He also entered the event at the San Clemente Sea Fest in September earning a fourth-place finish in Boys U17 Longboard. Matt practices five to six times a week but never lets it take precedence over his studies. This bright sixth-grader is a straight ‘A’ student. He also makes time for playing club soccer, a sport he has been involved in for Matt Economos. Courtesy photo six years. Matt rides shortboards as well, but says he prefers longboarding because it feels like “freedom” to him. “I love cross stepping to the nose and staying there as long as I can, then walking back and going for a big turn, cutback or a helicopter,” he said, adding that he also draws inspiration from watching pros like Alex Knost and Joel Tudor. “I like Alex’s huge fades and style on the nose. It’s super gnarly when he leans back. And Joel is super clean and noserides for like ever.”—Andrea Swayne

The Makings of a Standup Team

RESULTS Local finishers only. KEY: SC=San Clemente, DP=Dana Point, CB=Capistrano Beach, SJC=San Juan Capistrano WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 4, Nov. 9-10, San Diego, Mission Beach, San Fernando Place

Brawner Boards to hold youth SUP team information meeting, tryouts

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

B

rawner Boards has announced the development of a new stand-up paddle board team for kids.

A meeting at the shop, 220 Avenida Vaquero in San Clemente near the Department of Motor Vehicles, is scheduled for Friday, November 15, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. for those interested in finding out more about the team.

Free food and refreshments by Surfside Pizza will be served.

Brawner Boards and Sandwich Island Composites have joined forces to sponsor all training and equipment. Representatives from SIC will join Brawner staff at both events to answer questions and introduce the team concept.

SUP team tryouts will be held Saturday,

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

Brawner Boards store manager Norm Robilio prepares to welcome youth interested in finding out more about the shop’s new stand-up paddleboard team. Photo by Andrea Swayne

November 16, beginning at 9 a.m. at Baby Beach in the OC Dana Point Harbor.

The team has spots for athletes in three age groups, 7-10, 11-13 and 14-19. From beginners to elite-level racers, the team will welcome those with a true passion for SUP and a willingness to dedicate themselves to the sport.

Team members will receive training with some of the world’s best SUP athletes and top riders will have the opportunity to compete nationally, said owner Damian Brawner.

Training will also include a conditioning program, incentives and clinics.

“Anyone who would like to try out but is unable to attend the Friday or Saturday events should contact us for more information,” said store manager Norm Robilio.

“We are pleased to be in a position to provide access to this great sport for kids who are really interested in becoming a part of the team,” he said.

Brawner Boards can be reached at 949.429.9601 or info@brawnerboards.com.

DP

MICRO GROM BOYS/GIRLS SB U9: 4. Dane Matson, SC; 6. Bryce Pinkerton, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Brayden Burch, SC; 2. Dax McPhillips, SC; 3. Bane Corbett, SC; 6. Dane Matson, SC. BOYS U12: 1. Kade Matson, SC; 2. Jett Schilling, SC; 5.

Hagan Johnson, SC; 6. Taj Lindblad, SC. BOYS U14: 3. Noah Hohenester, SC; 5. Kade Matson, SC; 6. Jett Schilling, SC. BOYS U16: 1. Nathan Carabba, SC; 3. Curran Dand, SC. BOYS U18: 2.

Brighton Reinhardt, DP. GIRLS U12: 2. Samantha Sibley, SC; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 5. Malia Mauch, SC. GIRLS U14: 3. Samantha Sibley, SC; 5. Kirra Pinkerton, SC. GIRLS U16: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 6. Bethany Zelasko, DP. GIRLS U18: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, SC. BOYS LONGBOARD U14: 2. Jimmy Wynne, SC. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 4. Kaimana Takayama, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 2. Cameron Duby, SJC; 3. Malia Mauch, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U18: 1. Teresa O’Connor, SJC; 3. Rachael Tilly, CB; 4.

Emmy Lombard, SC; 5. Kaila Patterson, CB. MEN 18-29: 1. Ricky Lovato, SC. LEGENDS 50+: 2. Dale Baker, SC. OPEN MEN: 2. Brighton Reinhardt, DP. OPEN WOMEN: 2. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 4. Alexandra Frost, SJC; 5. Bethany Zelasko, DP. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 6. Cody Canzoneri, SC. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Cameron Duby, SJC; 3. Kyla Kelley, CB. SR. MEN LONGBOARD 40+: 1. Eric Rendon, SC; 4. Michael Takayama, SC. For full results, log on to www.danapointtimes.com.