February 21, 2014

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, EVENTS AND MORE F E B R U A RY 2 1 -2 7, 2 0 1 4

LO C A L

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VOLUME 7, ISSUE 8

Prioritizing Needs, Finding Fixes South Orange County schools are dealing with major facility needs E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4 Aging elementary, middle and high school campuses in Dana Point and San Clemente, like Palisades Elementary School, are among several Capistrano Unified School District sites that require moderate to extensive facilities upgrades. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Harbor Inn Fire Likely Caused by Soldering Work, Authorities Say

Officials Act Out Disaster for Camp Pendleton Exercise

INSIDE: 43rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales Event Guide

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SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

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CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22 Bulky Item Cleanup 7:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Skip a trip to the landfill and drop your bulky items off for free at Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern; or Palisades Elementary School, 26462 Via Sacramento in Capistrano Beach. Document shredding services will be available.

Community Recycling Event 9 a.m.– 11 a.m. Residents can drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the Dana Hills High School parking lot, 33333 Golden Lantern. Event will be held rain or shine. Funds collected are distributed to student programs.

D a n a Po i nt

Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Seasonal produce is on the ticket at this weekly outdoor market at La Plaza Park, located at 34111 La Plaza Street.

Call 949.573.5033 to find out about renting a booth.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Planning Commission Meeting 6 p.m. The five-member body meets at City Hall, Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern. Stay with www.danapointtimes.com for a look at the night’s happenings and upcoming discussions.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Preschool and Toddler Story Times 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. Dana Point children’s librarian Ericka Reeb hosts two story times each Tuesday for preschoolers and toddlers. Call 949.496.5517 for more info.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 26 Quarterly Siren Testing Each of the city’s emergency sirens will be activated during this quarterly, two-day system test. Call 949.248.3579 or visit www.danapoint.org/siren for more information.

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…the Dana Point Harbor Inn Fire?

THE LATEST: Investigators are calling the Dana Point Harbor Inn blaze last week “accidental” and likely caused by ongoing construction work, according to an Orange County Fire Authority official.

A vacant building of the two-story motel on Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive caught fire at about 8:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, causing $550,000 in damages. About 85 firefighters responded to the call. The hotel was red-tagged by the city in November after rotted sewage lines were discovered leaking waste water into the ground.

Of the motel’s two buildings, one had been reopened to guests. The sewage problems in the northern building were resolved and about 30 guests were displaced by the fire, as the city shutoff all utilities.

The vacant southern building, where the fire occurred, was still weeks or months away from completion, said city building official Mark Sutton.

That day, plumbers were onsite soldering water pipes, said Capt. Steve Concialdi, spokesman for the Orange County Fire Authority. Their work is believed to be the fire’s source, Concialdi confirmed.

No injuries were reported, and OCFA crews had the fire contained by 9:07 p.m.

WHAT’S NEXT: Beverly Hills Hospitality Group, developer of the proposed Doheny Hotel, owns the property. If plans for the more than 250-room, five-story hotel gain Planning Commission and City Council approval, the inn, Jack and the Box and vacant storefront on three adjoining lots could be demolished.

FIND OUT MORE: Track breaking news on Twitter @DanaPointTimes.

—Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

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…the Lantern District?

THE LATEST: Along with funding for the city’s second phase of Town Center Lantern District constriction on Del Prado Avenue, changes to the city’s parking requirements have been pegged as a missing piece to the projects’ puzzle.

Tuesday night, the Dana Point City Council directed staff move forward with providing downtown-commercial developers an out, if parking customers on site doesn’t pan out.

Through a series of public meetings and a joint Planning Commission and City Council meeting last month, Nelson/ Nygaard Consulting Associates, the city’s consultant, has presented options for the city’s parking structure that mimics a suburban area rather than a pedestrianfocused downtown corridor.

Consultants reported the city as having a parking surplus, with nearly 55 percent of street spaces being unused during peak hours.

WHAT’S NEXT: Rather than building parking structures, the consultants recommended the city adopt a management strategy with timed limits, city leases on private lots and an in-lieu fee option for developers.

Council members gave staff the OK to move forward with plans for a $15,000 per space fee, which developers could utilize to meet their parking requirements. All residential parking would still be required on site, but commercial developers could utilize the fee.

This is not a permanent solution to the city’s downtown parking. An overall plan is still in the works and will require California Coastal Commission approval.

FIND OUT MORE: Stay with the Dana Point Times for updates.—AP

…CUSD’s Superintendent Search?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District is asking for the community’s input in their search for the next superintendent.

Parents, students, community members and CUSD employees are invited to participate in an online survey and two public forums to provide their input on desirable attributes of the next superintendent.

Superintendent Joseph Farley has announced that he will retire on June 30, after four years at the head of the district and a 40-plus-year career as an educator.

WHAT’S NEXT: Community forums are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 24 and Tuesday, Feb. 25, from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the Education Center, 33122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano.

The online survey can be accessed at http://goo.gl/Q0DQvp. The search firm will take the public’s input and present that information during the board’s March 12 meeting. The district expects to name a new superintendent in May. FIND OUT MORE: Visit the district’s website at www.capousd.org.—Brian Park

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…Traffic Signal Synchronization?

THE LATEST: In addition to widening Interstate 5 between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano to add a high-occupancy vehicle lane, the Orange County Transportation Agency is embarking on other projects to reduce congestion, ease traffic flow and improve local roadway safety.

OCTA will sync traffic signals along Antonio and Crown Valley parkways. The project garnered approval from the OC Board of Supervisors, which includes part-

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nerships with local cities.

WHAT’S NEXT: Work on Crown Valley Parkway will impact 30 traffic signals along 9 miles, from Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point to Antonio Parkway in Ladera Ranch. New equipment will be installed in Dana Point and Laguna Niguel.

That project is underway and is expected to cost $459,000.

FIND OUT MORE: Go to www.danapointtimes.com.—AP

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…Poche Beach Pollution?

THE LATEST: Although Poche Beach received its first Orange County Health Care Agency water warning of the year last week, members of the San Clemente’s Coastal Advisory Commission believe the city has turned a corner in the fight to keep the waters off the beach clean.

Commissioner Bill Hart said the “light was at the end of the tunnel,” since the city identified sea gulls that frequent the area as the largest source of pollution.

Poche Beach is located on county property within the city limits of Dana Point, but because urban runoff from San Clemente has been a cause of issues in the past, the city has taken a lead role in cleanup efforts.

WHAT’S NEXT: Future courses of action could include sending treated water from the nearby Prima Deshecha watershed into a sewer discharge, rather than allowing runoff to collect in a beachside pond, a frequent hang out for birds.

San Clemente will look at its sewer master plan later this year, which could include such a tie-in.

FIND OUT MORE: Go to www.danapointtimes.com to read about Poche woes. —Jim Shilander www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP South County’s Facilities Needs Overall District Need: Estimated $822 million Available Funding: $44.8 million Hypothetical: If available funds were spread out evenly between all Capistrano Unified School District schools, each school site would have $801,000 available. But the heating and cooling system repair needs at Dana Hills High School are priced at about $2.3 million. Additionally, at San Clemente High School, costs for roofing and fire alarm upgrades are estimated at more than $3 million.

Proposed Projects: CUSD has identified eight schools as having priority needs, including elementary, middle and high schools in Aliso Viejo, Capistrano Beach, Dana Point, Laguna Niguel and San Clemente. Many of the south Orange County schools have aging facilities with high-dollar needs.

Dana Hills High School was built in 1973. The school’s heating, cooling and air conditioning system is in need of repair or replacement. Costs to replace the school’s HVAC air handlers, which circulate air throughout the school’s buildings, are estimated at $2.5 million.

Schools across south Orange County are in need of major maintenance and upgrades. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Prioritizing Needs, Finding Fixes South Orange County schools dealing with major facilities needs

By Andrea Papagianis and Jim Shilander Dana Point Times

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ith Gov. Jerry Brown’s new Local Control Funding Program giving school districts statewide greater authority over funding and budgeting, districts are beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. And for the first time in years, the Capistrano Unified School District is discussing what can be done versus what couldn’t or had to be cut.

While returning to a full school calendar and reducing class sizes to previous levels remains at the forefront of discussion, the district is starting to address long-overdue maintenance needs in aging schools in south Orange County, from San Clemente to Aliso Viejo.

One year ago, outgoing Superintendent Joseph Farley said the district’s facilities needs were pushing toward $1 billion, highlighting a multi-year goal to complete upgrades and modernization efforts at several campuses.

Needs were more narrowly defined in December as CUSD’s Board of Trustees readdressed a 2009 study by consultant WLC Architects where needed maintenance estimations topped out at more than $822 million across the district.

“The district has acknowledged many of our sites have needs,” district spokesman Marcus Walton said in an email.

“Staff is addressing those needs as resources allow.”

While the district has needs everywhere, San Clemente and Dana Point are home to some of the oldest schools in the district, many of which pre-date the district’s formation in 1965. The increasing maintenance costs inherent in older buildings meant the economic downturn affected those buildings more, said Board of Trustees President John Alpay, who represents San Clemente.

“With many of CUSD’s oldest campuses located in the southern portion of the school district, San Clemente and Dana Point based facilities took a disproportionate hit,” Alpay said.

Dana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

Eight aging schools from San Clemente to Aliso Viejo were identified by staff as having immediate essentials in need of repair, with costs totaling $13 million.

At San Clemente High School, those needs are estimated at $6.145 million for new roofing, fire alarm upgrades, artificial turf, flooring, painting and other general maintenance. For Dana Hills High School the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system needs replacing. Estimates place the project costs at $2.5 million.

Shorecliffs Middle School along with, Las Palmas, Palisades and R.H. Dana elementary schools also made the list, with combined repairs and general updates sitting near the $4 million mark. Those south county schools were all built prior to 1977, with Shorecliffs being the most recent addition.

But with an estimated $44.8 million in available facilities funding, the district has just 5 percent of monies required to cover all its needs. Projects at Dana Hills and San Clemente high schools could soon go out to bid, but until numbers come back, district efforts to identify funding sources are a bit premature.

GAINING MORE CONTROL Brown’s reemphasis on local control during his State of the State speech in January made his position clear: Educational action should remain at the local level.

“With six million students, there is no way the state can micromanage teaching and learning in all the schools from El Centro to Eureka,” Brown said. “And we should not even try.”

In July, Brown signed sweeping legislation to overhaul the ways California’s public education system is funded, providing one of the biggest changes to K-12 funding in decades.

At the crux of Assembly Bill 97 was the Local Control Funding Program, aimed at providing districts serving higher-needs students—such as lower-income students (Cont. on page 6) Page 4

Las Palmas Elementary School is one of the district’s oldest.

Originally built in the late 1920s, Las Palmas was demolished and rebuilt in the ’70s. An estimated $400,000 in general upgrades is needed.

Palisades Elementary School wears visible signs of its 50 years with dated buildings and worn roofing. The Capistrano Beach school has $463,000 in immediate needs for general maintenance and painting.

R.H. Dana Elementary School was built in 1969. General facilities upgrades and window replacements have been pegged as needed, bearing a $547,000 price tag.

San Clemente High School has some of the district’s highest dollar needs. More than $6.145 million in upgrades and repairs were identified for this school built in 1965, including roofing, artificial turf, fire alarm upgrades, painting, flooring, lockers and performing arts center repairs.

Shorecliffs Middle School sits near the Dana Point-San Clemente border needing an estimated $2.545 million in general upgrades, roofing, flooring and painting. Some of the school’s portable classrooms also need reconstruction and/or repairs. Shorecliffs was built in 1977.

At the beginning of the fiscal year, the district had about $57 million in facilities funds with limited uses. Leaving out spoken-for funds, the district has about $44.9 million available, but Community Facilities District funds can only be used for new facilities at certain schools and other funds have limits on their uses, making the financing of projects difficult. Figures courtesy of the Capistrano Unified School District www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 4) and non-native English speakers—with increased funding.

The law also gives local districts more control on how state funding is spent.

“Instead of prescriptive commands issued from headquarters here in Sacramento, more general goals have been established for each local school to attain, each in its own way,” Brown said in his speech. “This puts the responsibility where it has to be: in the classroom and at the local district.”

The increased flexibility comes with some stability in funds. In 2012, California voters approved Proposition 30, which allowed increases to both the state sales tax and on incomes greater than $250,000, which were earmarked for education funding. The proposition didn’t increase funding, but rather maintains funds by preventing further cuts to education.

The district is now considering its facility funding options. In a December 11 board presentation, staff suggested trustees consider issuing Certificates of Participation for upfront funding from Talega’s Community Facilities District.

But those funds are limited to new construction at school’s serving the community’s students. The district originally considered Talega’s Mello-Roos funding as a source to mitigate San Clemente’s needs, but a recent refinancing of the fund will return an estimated $17 million to taxpayers in the area.

District staff also recommended looking at School Facility Improvement Districts for areas without CFDs. The funding comes from region-specific general obligation bonds that would pay off CFDs, providing funds for higher-needs schools. This option requires an additional viability analysis.

Additionally, district staff indicated that school facility bonds could make it to the 2014 ballot, giving voters the

say into funding facility needs across the state.

But with specific-use limitations on various funds, the district has yet to earmark funds for projects and has not set construction timelines for when work could occur.

GETTING BACK TO BASICS For CUSD, like many of its educational-counterpart agencies, 2008’s economic downturn meant severe budget cuts at the district level and steep downfalls in state and federal funding.

“Given the magnitude of these cuts, we witnessed a reduction in the school year, increase in class sizes, steep cuts in teacher and staff compensation and the evisceration of deferred maintenance,” Alpay said.

In 2009, class sizes were up to 31 students in elementary schools. The school year was reduced to 175 days during the 2011-2012 school year, but the district restored two additional days in 2013. Trustees expect to restore a full 180-day school year for 2014-2015. An agreement with the Capistrano Unified Education Association, signed in August, begins to bring down class sizes.

“Next year we will witness an increase in funding, and the trustees have made clear the first priorities will be on reducing class size and restoring the school calendar,” Alpay said. “The level of funding is simply not there to add facilities improvement to the list of immediate priorities; at least not yet.”

“Once funding is available, schools in dire need of facilities upgrades, San Clemente High School being a prominent example, will receive the extra attention they need and deserve,” Alpay said.

At a meeting last year, Alpay discussed the possibility of constructing a new pool at the high school. Alpay suggested upgraded facilities could serve as a selling point for parents, who could soon decide between sending their children to San Clemente or San Juan Hills high schools,

once the La Pata gap between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano is connected.

Since Talega residents helped pay for construction at San Juan Hills through a CFD, those students are given attendance priority but currently attend SCHS. Members of the SCHS arts community have asked the district for a performing arts facility to replace the downtrodden Triton Center. The center is old and is badly in need of repairs. Mainly the ceiling needs fixing to cover a gaping hole.

Walton emphasized that the health and safety of students and staff is always a priority for the district. He added the district had consistently addressed facility issues using the resources available during the downturn.

The district estimated building a new theater at SCHS would cost $17.3 million. The number is based on recent construction of a similar facility at Capistrano Valley High School, accounting for subsequent increases in construction costs. New arts facilities at Capo Valley were paid with Mello-Roos funding from Mission Viejo and Aliso Viejo, along with grant funds.

Without those sources of funding, SCHS Principal Michael Halt is realistic about what can be done in the immediate future. When he toured the campus during his interview process last year, he understood needed improvements would take some time.

“It was clear the physical condition of the school was going to be a challenge,” Halt said.

However, the school’s staff has continued to make the best of the hand they’ve been dealt, by balancing teachers’ wants and the true needs of the school.

“They’re facing challenges that other teachers don’t have,” Halt said. “But they’re professionals and they’re doing the best job they can.” Halt added he felt confident talks with the district could help address some of San Clemente high’s needs. DP Brian Park contributed to this report.

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Andrea Papagianis

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Dana Hills’ Brantlee Griffith Earns Eagle Wings u Just 2 percent of all Boy Scouts go on to earn scouting’s highest achievement—that of the Eagle. And on Jan. 26, Dana Point’s own Brantlee Griffith joined their ranks by proving he had the character of an Eagle Scout through years of dedicated service to the scouts and his community.

The Eagle Scout honor requires young men to commit to years of outdoor learning, to community service projects and to holding leadership roles within the organization.

Griffith, a senior at Dana Hills High School, surpassed the requirements and demonstrated he lives by scouting principals.

To earn the honor, Griffith embarked on a service project to benefit his church community. He designed and built three unique benches for Neighborhood Congregational Church in Laguna Beach that had recently removed grass for a low-water, eco-friendly garden.

“I wanted the benches to reflect the community,” Griffith said. “One uses skimboards for the back of the bench to recognize the surf culture, another has a sunburst to show the beautiful sunsets.”

With a team of youth and adult volunteers, the project took more than 250 hours to complete. Outside of scouts, Griffith is an AP scholar, a varsity member of the

DP Sheriff’s Blotter SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMPILED BY CATHERINE MANSO 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.

cross country and track teams, viola section leader in the orchestra and president of the Junior Achievement Club.

VFW Honors Deputy, Teacher, Firefighter of Year

Dana Hills High School senior Brantlee Griffith earned the Eagle Scout honor after years of service to his community. Here, Griffith is pictured with one of three benches he designed and built for his church. Courtesy photo

Deputy David Cappel, of Dana Point Police Services, is recognized Tuesday by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and city as deputy of the year.

Photo by Andrea Papagianis u Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and the city of Dana Point recognized outstanding service men and women Tuesday night with their annual deputy, teacher and firefighter of the year honors.

Orange County Sheriff’s Department inspector David Coppel was named the VFW’s law enforcement officer of the year for excellence in the performance and a dedication

Charles Fullwood Performs at Dana Point Art Launch u Rising star and Mission Viejo-based musician and songwriter Charles Fullwood will perform at The Shed Art Gallery’s monthly Dana Point Art Launch on Thursday, Feb. 27.

FRAUD REPORT Del Prado Avenue, 24800 Block (9:15 p.m.) A man ran out of Rite Aid after trying to use a “fraudulent gift card.” An employee said he was in his mid-40s, of heavy build and wearing a blue-flannel shirt.

Sunday, February 16

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (3:37 p.m.) Authorities received a complaint about “loud music or bad karaoke” occurring at the Monarch Coast apartment complex.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 33500 Block (7:48 p.m.)

A caller requested help from deputies after a drunken woman screamed that she was going to shoot the caller. The screaming woman was described as being 5 feet tall with curly dirty-blonde hair. No weapons were seen.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive, 25300 Block (12:26 p.m.) An unidentified man was chasing people and vehicles near the Dana Point HarborS fuel dock.

Monday, February 17

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATIONS Robles Drive/Selva Road (10:37 a.m.)

A 6-foot-tall man in his 20s was scavenging through trash cans.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (10:19 p.m.) A Carl’s Jr. employee reported that a 50-year-old man with dark hair walked into the restaurant and said he was being followed by others with guns.

The caller believer the man was hiding a gun under his beige jacket.

TRESPASSING Crown Valley Parkway/Pacific Coast Highway (8:24 a.m.) A caller informed authorities of an apparently homeless man, who was carrying a backpack and loitering at the Chevron gas station. When he was asked to leave the 6-foot-tall man instead walked into the store.

Dana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

to the community. Coppel, a San Clemente native, has served with OCSD for 20 years, with the last 12 being in Dana Point.

Capt. Craig Covey, of the Orange County Fire Authority, was named firefighter of the year. The teacher of the year honor went to Sharon Miller, who also serves as president of the Ladies Auxiliary Post 9934.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (10:09 p.m.) A man wearing an orange shirt and jeans was spotted hitting an ATM machine and chasing pedestrians.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (4:31 p.m.) Dispatch received notice of an apparently homeless man sitting in a wheelchair drinking in the parking lot of A’s Burgers and harassing customers.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (4:27 p.m.) A woman left her clothes unattended at Sparkling Laundry. When she returned, her laundry was gone.

WELFARE CHECK Camino El Molino, 34400 Block (4:23 p.m.) Officials checked on a resident after a man asked if there was a

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Enjoy live music, meet-and-greets with featured contemporary artists and sip wine and other refreshments during a fashion show presented by JunQuies Boutique.

Event starts at 5 p.m. and runs through 7 p.m., at 24471 Del Prado Ave. in the Coastal Arcadian Center.

The event is free. However, donations will be accepted for The Laguna Beach Friendship Shelter, which provides shelter, meals and support services to help people back onto their feet. Send an RSVP email message to gina@oceventsolutions.com.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

“siren testing” that morning. He continued to ramble and express concerns of it being an “underwater sonar siren.” The caller’s mother took the phone from him and also asked about the sirens.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34600 Block (12:16 p.m.) A drunken 40-year-old man, in a tan shirt and black board shorts, was seen hitting vehicles at the Capistrano Surfside Inn. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Mariana Drive, 33900 Block (4:58 a.m.)

A caller informed sheriff’s deputies of two men wearing dark clothing and looking into vehicles. A patrol check was issued for the area.

Wednesday, February 12 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Ritz Pointe Drive/Niguel Road (11:11 p.m.) A resident requested a patrol check after seeing a teenage boy wearing a hooded sweatshirt walking around the neighborhood late at night.

SUSPICIOUS PEROSN IN VEHICLE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (9:22 p.m.) Two drunken men, sitting in a gray Dodge caravan, were urinating from the van and into a parking lot. www.danapointtimes.com

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 8. 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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

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ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

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Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Locals Only Business Listing Manager

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Catherine Manso, Madison May, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

GUEST OPINION: Evan Chaffee, San Juan Capistrano Planning Commissioner

The Curious Case of the Public Administrator Decision to merge position with DA’s office more a ‘sideshow’ than ‘true solution’

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hile most midterm elections are generally bland events with minimal voter participation, it appears the 2014 election cycle is starting to get spicy. Due to term limits, south Orange County will be seeing a turnover in several significant state and county offices, including the 73rd Assembly seat, 38th Senate District and the 5th District Board of Supervisors seat. Considering the recent news of 73rd Assembly candidate, and Rancho Santa Margarita councilman, Jesse Petrilla’s 2001 felony assault with a firearm conviction and Rep. John Campbell’s (R-45th District) retirement from Congress, the election season is alive with notable headlines.

“The requirement that appears to be missing is a professional standard to run for and hold the office of Public Administrator.”

—Evan Chaffee To add to the list of interesting election situations is the case of the Orange County Public Administrator, formerly an elected seat that had been vacant since 2012, when its occupant, John Williams, resigned. This was, in part, due to scathing mismanagement charges detailed in two 2009 Grand Jury reports.

In a recent supervisor’s agenda, county staff defined the role of Public Administrator as one that “protects the assets and affairs of deceased residents who, at the time of their death, leave no heirs, no will, no named executor or an executor who is ineligible and whose estates have no perDana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

son willing to serve as an executor or administrator for whatever reason.”

After William’s resignation, the Board of Supervisors voted to cut the position’s full-time, six-figure salary to a part-time Evan Chaffee position, earning $30,000 annually, as a step to dissuade potential corruption. Additionally, the supervisors opted to include ballot Measure A in the 2012 general election to turn the seat into an appointed position rather than an elected office every four years. Rejecting the measure, Orange County residents overwhelmingly voted to keep the Office of Public Administrator on the ballot with 60 percent of the vote.

Less than two years later, after several candidates filed to run for the vacant seat in 2014, the Board of Supervisors voted at their Jan. 28 meeting to merge with that of the Public Administrator office with the District Attorney’s. As a subsidiary of the DA’s office, there will be little or no cost savings for taxpayers, as the Public Administrator’s budget will be absorbed by the DA. There will be less transparency for voters with the position’s accessibility and visibility reduced in the process. While the DA’s office is qualified to manage these cases, it would seem that their efforts should remain devoted to their mission statement; enhancing public safety and welfare through the enforcement of criminal and civil laws.

Regardless of the Public Administrator office’s tarnished reputation, merging the office with the DA seems to be more of a sideshow than a true solution. The supervisors made some effort to fix the problem in 2012. Measure A appropriately gauged voter opinion that the electorate

retain the right to choose their public administrator. The requirement that appears to be missing is a professional standard to run for and hold the office of Public Administrator.

For example, in order to stand for Orange County Treasurer-Tax Collector candidates must be certified public accountants, and the DA must be a licensed attorney.

Considering that the role of Public Administrator relies heavily on probate law, it would have been more appropriate if the board had established a professional standard requiring membership in the California bar to be eligible to hold this office. Prior to the action of the board of supervisors, two qualified licensed attorneys filed to run for the office.

Nevertheless, three of the five members of the board voted to merge the Public Administrator office into the DA’s office, effectively preventing these candidates from running and ignoring the message of Measure A. Evan Chaffee is a lifelong resident of San Juan Capistrano and is currently serving his first term on the city’s Planning Commission. He serves as campaign manager for Orange County Supervisor candidate Lisa Bartlett. He is a graduate of the University of California, San Diego with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science. DP 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 Page 10

Letters to the Editor MISSING PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY’S TIPU TREES KENT WELTON, Dana Point

I miss the soft and beautiful tipu trees the city has now removed.

They said the reason was that the roots were hitting the concrete.

I drove around to check and saw only one root next to concrete.

The real reason is they want to put in the expensive to buy, and maintain, non-native palm trees.

This will now give Dana Point the out-of-place, plastic, Florida look and a disturbing mishmash of landscaping to go along with the new one-lane “traffic calming” snafus.

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

ART FROM THE START Dana Hills High School students get glimpse into professional art careers, create festival art High school is a time for exploring college options, developing new interests and beginning to formulate a plan for the future. For art students at Dana Hills High School, the Festival of Whales provides just such an opportunity. It’s an opportunity program organizers hope could give start to budding art careers.

Now, in its third year, a joint program between Festival of Whales organizers and DHHS

Sarah Holen

Sarah Holen designed the official logo for this year’s Festival of Whales. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

gives local teens a chance to design the official logo and to create and display their work among professional artists at the Art in the Park exhibition and sale, held both festival weekends.

The program includes an inspirational field trip whale watching aboard a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel and exploring the Ocean Institute’s brig Pilgrim. Ninety students take photos, sketch and film the experience to serve as inspiration for work they will display at Art in the Park, and for the 2015 logo design contest.

Raechel Grable

Madeline McGrath

ALL ABOARD Visit the festival for less with Metrolink and OCTA

Courtesy photo

The Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink will once again offer an environmental- and budget-friendly route to and from the Dana Point Festival of Whales.

Just $10 buys a Metrolink weekend pass, valid for system-wide travel all day Saturday and Sunday. Weekend passes are available for purchase at all Metrolink station ticket machines.

To get to the Festival of Whales from the San Juan Capistrano train station, take OCTA Bus Route 91 south to Dana Point. Bus transfers are

free with your Metrolink ticket.

Bicyclists, take your wheels with you onboard one of Metrolink’s specially marked “bicycle cars.” Then from the San Juan station, follow the San Juan Creek bike trail for three miles to Dana Point.

For full bus and train schedules, log on to www.octa.net/whales2014.

OCTA and Metrolink can also help you get great deals at local businesses when you mention these offers and present your Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lanes

Festival organizer Penny Elia said, as the program has grown and evolved, students are being provided a new level of guidance as teachers use a curriculum that more closely mimics real-world commissions.

The quality of the student work shows an increasing professionalism and students, including this year’s logo design winner Sarah Holen, say the experience has piqued an interest in the possibility of pursuing art-related careers.

Holen, a 2013 Dana Hills graduate, is now attending Saddleback College where she plans to finish two years before transferring to a four-year university. Her career interests include business marketing, the automotive industry and art.

“I was really excited to have my art work join that of famous artists, like John Van Hamersveld and Wyland, who have done logos in the past,” Holen said. “Designing a Festival of Whales logo is like being a part of Dana Point’s history.”

The four runners-up are Raechel Grable, Madeline McGrath, Sophie Gutteridge and Renee Richardson.

Be sure to stop by Art in the Park to check out the work of our talented local youth.

—Andrea Swayne

Sophia Gutteridge

Renee Richardson

transponder.

WHALE WATCHING: Receive a 50 percent discount at Dana Wharf Whale Watching or the Ocean Institute. For more information and to make reservations call Dana Wharf at 949.496.5794 and the Ocean Institute at 949.496.2274.

HOTEL: The Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive at the Dana Point Harbor, is offering a special $79 rate, single or double occupancy. For reservations, call 949.496.1203.

COFFEE: Buy one premium coffee beverage at The Coffee Importers and get a second one free. Coffee Importers is located at 34531 Golden Lantern Street, in Mariner’s Village at the Harbor. Offer expires March 31.

APPETIZER: Receive one free appetizer (chef’s choice) at Wind & Sea Restaurant. One per table, with purchase of entrée in the dining room. Offer valid March 1-9. Wind & Sea is located at 34699 Golden Lantern in the Harbor.

For reservations, call 949.496.6500.

Welcome to the 43rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales

By Lisa Bartlett, Mayor of Dana Point It is that magical time of year again when the majestic gray whales migrate through the waters off the Dana Point coastline, making the city a premier location for up close viewing.

To celebrate this spectacular yearly occurrence, we are honored to host the 43rd Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales.

We begin with the Festival of Whales Parade, through downtown on Pacific Coast Highway, March 1 at 10 a.m. and flow into two weekends, jam packed, with activities and events for the whole family.

I am proud to announce this year’s Parade Grand Marshal is Jay “Sparky” Longley, owner of Rainbow Sandals and the Community Grand Marshal is 2014 Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year and longtime parade announcer Gene Burrus.

Attractions include music, art, classic cars and boats, stand-up paddling, foot races, marine exhibitions, environmental education and more. Many of the activities and events are free of charge. Whale excursions are also available, and I encourage you to look into the many opportunities for first hand viewing on the ocean. You just cannot imagine how large and spectacular the gray whales are until they come up next to your ocean vessel, and you are close enough to see how gracefully they navigate through the water.

The festival includes venues throughout the city, providing many opportunities to explore Dana Point. The Harbor, Town Center Lantern District, Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center high on the Headlands overlooking the Harbor, Lantern Bay Park, Doheny State Beach and the Ocean Institute are but a few places we hope you will visit.

Don’t miss the Dana Point Symphony’s third season kick-off performances March 7 and 8 aboard the brig Pilgrim at the Ocean Institute.

Detailed information on events and activities, an area map, schedule and more can be found on the pages of this program or online at www.festivalofwhales.com. festivalofwhales.com | Page 3

EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ARTS AND CULTURE Art in the Park March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.4 p.m. Local artists along with students from Dana Hills High School display a variety of artwork on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. 12 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale March 1, 2, 8, 9; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Art show and sale on the Harbor boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village. Works by many award-winning local artists will be available for purchase. 7 Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast March 7, 8, 9; March 7, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; March 8, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and March 9, 9 a.m.-noon.

The Dana Point Historical Society hosts the fourth annual volunteer public reading of Richard Henry Dana Jr.’s Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Free. 949.899.0907. 5 Walking Tour of Town Center March 1, 2, 8, 9; 2 p.m. Meet a guide from the Historical Society at 34091 Pacific Coast Highway—at Blue Lantern and PCH—for this historic Town Center tour of buildings, homes and landmarks circa 1924 to 1939. Free. 9 Polynesian Connection March 1; 10 a.m.4 p.m. The Hula Connection (Leinani Hula Hui’ana) presents a day of Polynesian culture with music, dance, food and hands-on educational experiences for all ages at Baby Beach.

Activities include lei-making, fire knife and hula/ Tahitian dancing, poi-ball twirling, air-brush tattoos, face painting, coconut husking, outrigger canoe demonstrations and more. 15

a state-of-the-art whale research, rescue and whale watching vessel named Lily. The boat was named after a gray whale, wrapped in gill net, that made national headlines when Capt. Dave and rescue team members disentangled her. His rescue work also landed him a television appearance on the “Ellen Degeneres Show.” Attendees will be invited to have some hands-on fun with research and rescue equipment. Signed copies of Capt. Dave’s book, Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey, will be available for purchase. 4 Captain Dave’s Carnival March 8; Noon2 p.m. Drop by Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for free activities and prizes. Kids of all ages will have fun with games, crafts, a bounce house and more. Face painting and animal balloons will be available for a small fee. It’s fun for the whole “pod.” 4 Movie Viewing March 1, 2, 8, 9; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visit the Dolphin Deck for a free viewing of Capt. Dave Anderson’s award-winning documentary Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. In 1995 Capt. Dave mounted an underwater camera and hydrophone on the bow of his boat and began taking his cameras on every trip. It took five years to create the documentary, an experience Capt. Dave says that has forever changed his life. Screenings held every hour. 4

CLASSIC CARS & VINTAGE BOATS So Cal Woodies March 1, 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Woodie cars from the Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the Harbor walkway. 11

CAPTAIN DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary For information about Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 4

Antique & Classic Boat Society March 1, 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Classic vessels from the Southern California Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society will be displayed in the water and on land along the Harbor walkway. 11

Lily, a Gray Whale Tribute March 1; 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Capt. Dave presents a free tour, whale rescue and research lecture and book signing aboard his new 62-foot catamaran,

Porsche 356 Club March 8; 10 a.m.4 p.m. The Southern California chapter of the 356 Club displays classic Porsche models at Waterfall Park on Dana Point Harbor Drive. 14

Whale of a Classic Car Display March 8, 9; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club will display a variety of classics and hot rods, along the Harbor walkway. 11

DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary For information about Dana Wharf Whale Watching, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip March 1, 2, 8, 9; clinic noon12:30 p.m., fishing trip 12:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Free dockside fishing clinic followed by a fishing trip where kids 12 and under fish for free. Adults are $39, plus license and equipment. 3 Kids Adventure Expo March 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Inagural event features hands-on experiences promoting a variety of ocean activities: boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, diving and more. Held at the Dick Simon Yachts parking lot near Dana Wharf. Free. Games and rides offered for a nominal fee. 9 Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Enjoy a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s while marine biologists present recent findings on whales, dolphins and other marine mammals.

March 1: Dean Gomersall, California Sea Lions; March 2: Doug Thompson, Gray Whales; March 8: Alisa Schulman-Janiger, Gray Whale Census and Killer Whales; March 9: Todd Mansur, Gray Whale Migration and Blue Whales. Then climb aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran for a 2.5-hour whale watching trip at either 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Tickets are $55 for adults, $35 for seniors and children 3–12, and children 2 and under are free. Lecture only, $5. 13 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m.

Learn from renowned environmental artist Wyland via a dockside video presentation and art lesson aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran. Children can enter their art in a contest to win great prizes. $5 per child.

Proceeds benefit the Wyland Foundation. 3

DIAMOND DIG Diamond Dig March 2; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Dig for buried treasure at the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club Diamond Dig at Baby Beach. Dress as a pirate and get a head start.

Cost is $10 per shovel. Last year, toys, bicycles and a diamond necklace were among the booty found. 949.842.0594, www.monarchbeachrotary.com. 15

DOHENY STATE BEACH Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum March 9; 11a.m.-3p.m. A variety of genuine marine mammal artifacts will be on display at Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center, near the park entrance, for visitors to actively learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Please alert park staff upon arrival so they can direct you to free, onehour parking. Free. Rain cancels. 949.496.2704, www.dohenystatebeach.org. 16 Whale of a Beach Cleanup March 8; 9 a.m.-noon. Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Park Interpreter Vicki at Lifeguard Headquarters to learn about how you can help maintain precious coastal resources. Free. 16

FOOD Polynesian Connection Luau March 1; 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

Experience the unforgettable sights, smells, sounds and tastes of beautiful Polynesia with an authentic luau at the OC Sailing & Events Center. Tickets are $50.

949.973.7281, www.hulaconnection.com.

8 Whale of a BBQ March 2; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Delicious barbecue specialties at affordable prices will be served up adjacent to Baby Beach during Ocean Awareness Day. 15 Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook Off March 8; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sample a variety of tasty chowders from local restaurants and organizations and then vote for your favorites along the Harbor walkway near Island Way. Cost is $10 to taste every entry. www.fishforlife.org. 11 (Cont. on page 6)

#=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com.

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(Cont. from page 4) Whale of a Concert BBQ March 9; Noon5 p.m. Concessions for scrumptious barbecue specialties will be available at the OC Sailing & Event Center adjacent to Baby Beach. A Spirits Garden will be available for those over 21 with a valid ID. 15 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast & Raffle March 2; 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center’s Dana Cove Room. Adults $6, children under 12 are $3. Show your Grunion Run racing bib for $1 off. 949.275.3142. 8

GRUNION RUN 6th Annual Grunion Run March 2; Registration, 6:30 a.m.; 10K, 7:45 a.m.; 5K, 8 a.m.; Kids’ 1K, 9 a.m.; Awards, 9:15 a.m. The sixth annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run 10K, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ 1K Run will take place in Doheny State Beach. This is a fast and flat scenic run/walk. Entry fees are $45 for the 10K, $40 for the 5K and $20 for the 1K. www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. 16

MERCHANDISE Festival Logo Merchandise T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both festival weekends. Merchandise is also available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com.

MICKEY MUÑOZ MONGOOSE CUP STAND-UP PADDLE Mongoose Cup SUP March 8; 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Stand-up paddle with famous surfing icon and legend Mickey Munoz and friends in the fifth annual Mongoose Cup at Dana Cove Park and Baby Beach. Enjoy a great day of fun, SUP clinics and camaraderie. Activities include a Wounded Warrior Project Paddle, Waterman Expo & Paddling Skills Clinics, Sport of Kings Races, Luck of the Draw relays and a delicious barbecue too. Clinics will cover paddling and training techniques, SUP racing skills, water safety, fitness, adventure paddling, SUP yoga and more. 949.276.4431, www.festivalofwhales.com. 15

MOVIE IN THE PARK Finding Nemo March 1; Dusk/6:30 p.m. Finding Nemo will be presented free of charge by

the city of Dana Point’s Community Services and Parks Department at Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Road. Free popcorn, hot beverages and snacks will be available. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinner to enjoy an evening of entertainment under the stars. 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org. 18

MUSIC Symphony Spectactular March 7, 8; March 7, 7 p.m.; March 8, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony presents Symphony Spectacular aboard the brig Pilgrim, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive at the Ocean Institute. The show is an ocean-themed extravaganza with the symphony, singers, dancers and high-flying aerialist dancers from the Luminario Ballet of Los Angeles. Tickets are $25 for adults and children 15 and over. Children under 15 free at Saturday’s matinee. 301.832.0388, www.danapointsymphony.com. 17 Harbor Music Series March 1, 2, 8, 9; Noon3 p.m. Live music performances in a variety of styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Dana Wharf courtyard, the grassy area near Harpoon Henry’s and Mariner’s Alley. Free. 10

OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING AND MORE 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org Whale Watching March 1, 2, 8, 9; Departure times vary. For information about Ocean Institute whale watching, call, check out the website or turn to “Whale Watching Excursions” on page 12. 6 World of Whales March 1, 2, 8, 9; March 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; March 2, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and March 8-9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and fascinating world of whales and explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to these magnificent animals. There will be opportunities to examine how they communicate and eat, to see how pollution can affect them and create fun whale-themed crafts. Additional activities in the Maddie James Seaside Learning Center include animal feedings, ROV driving and tide pool touch tanks. Admission price is $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children 3-12, children 2 and under are free.

Members are free. 6

Ocean Institute Jazz Festival Feb. 28, March 1, 2 Opening night, Feb. 28 kicks off with a wine and appetizer reception and concert. March 1 is the gala evening with a cocktail reception, silent auction, gourmet dinner prepared by chefs from local resorts and a jazz performance. A relaxed lunch and encore performance will be held March 2.

All events benefit educational programs at the Ocean Institute. 949.496.2274 ext. 337, www.oijazzfestival.com. 6

Whale’s Tale Tall Ship Sailing Adventure March 1, 8; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of the magnificent gray whale. Join the Ocean Institute for an exciting tall ship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California coast. Non-member price is $40 for adults and $23 for children 12 and under. Members are $36 for adults and $21 for children. Minimum age to participate is 4. 6

Whale of a Concert and BBQ March 9; noon1 p.m., 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.-5 p.m.

Bands perform at Baby Beach atop a floating stage. Free. Bring beach chairs, towels and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment. Barbecue specialties will be available for purchase, along with a Spirits Garden for those over 21 with a valid ID. 15

Seashore Interpretive Family Hike March 1, 2, 8, 9; Times are based on tides Take a guided family tide pool hike through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. Hikes are available on a first come, first served basis. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute. Free with paid admission. 6

OCEAN AWARENESS DAY

PARADE

Ocean Awareness March 2; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Dana Point Harbor Association presents interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues. The event is free and located near Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Place. 15

Festival of Whales Kickoff Parade March 1; 10 a.m. The parade features floats, bands, horses, giant balloons, community organizations and more related to the Festival theme, “Magical Migration.” Parade route runs along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. 1

RUBBER DUCKY DERBY Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby March 2; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by the Dana Point Women’s Club, this fun spin on a traditional rubber ducky race is held at Baby Beach.

Duckies can be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.5706 or the day of the event at the DPWC booth at Baby Beach. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers. Duckies are $6 each or two for $10; need not be present to win. www.danapointwomensclub.org. 15

SAND SCULPTING Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition March 2; 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. OC Parks presents a competition on the sand at Baby Beach. Teams, from families and friends to hard-core sand sculpting enthusiasts are welcome. Sculpting areas are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Compete in one of five categories: castles, whales and ocean creatures, pirates and ships, woodies and surfboards or patriotic emblems. Judging begins at 2:30 p.m. with awards to follow. Bring buckets and tools.

Dyes and stabilizers are not allowed. 15

SAILING AND PADDLING 949.492.3035, www.westwindsailing.com Sailing Rides March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Westwind Sailing, at the OC Sailing & Event Center, teaches passengers how to sail a Capri 14. Half-hour sessions are $15 per boat, three people max, ages 5 and up. 8 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 1, 2, 8, 9; 10 a.m.3 p.m. Join the SUP craze and learn why it’s the fastest growing water sport today. Westwind Sailing hosts 45-minute on-the-water clinics, on the hour, for ages 12 and up. Cost is $10 per person and lifejackets will be provided. 8

STREET FAIR La Plaza Street Fair March 1; 10 a.m.2 p.m. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce invites you to the annual Street Fair Festival for an unforgettable day of food, games, music and entertainment for the whole family. The carnival-style fair, with vendor booths and a farmers market, begins immediately following the Festival of Whales Parade at La Plaza Park.

949.496.1555. 2

#=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com.

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Parking Shuttle Stop Event Whale Watching Excursions/Viewing Festival Merchandise Drinking Fountain Shuttle Route Parade Route Shuttle Route First Saturday

GETTING AROUND

HELP US KEEP THE FESTIVAL OF WHALES CLEAN AND GREEN

WATER TAXI NEW THIS YEAR Daily service will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the two festival weekends. Service runs between Dana Wharf and the Ocean Institute for $3 round-trip per person. Tickets may be purchased at Dana Wharf Whale Watching or at the Ocean Institute. Park and then ride this fun new water taxi, taking in all the great sites from the water. Your captain will share interesting facts and features about the Dana Point area and its fascinating history. Ride all day for only $5 per person.

PARKING AND SHUTTLE SERVICE FREE shuttle service will be available every day of the festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with extended service hours the morning of the parade (March 1) and the afternoon of the Whale of a Concert (March 9). Parking in the Harbor is free, but limited to four hours and is strictly enforced.

Parking at Doheny State Beach is $8 for the entire day.

FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE

PARADE DAY SHUTTLE (MARCH 1) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to and at the conclusion of the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor or Doheny State Beach and then ride to the drop-off location for the northerly parade announcer stand. At the conclusion of the parade, meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor.

WHALE OF A CONCERT SHUTTLE (MARCH 9) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m.

STREET FAIR SHUTTLE (MARCH 1) FREE shuttle service will be available from all Harbor locations to the Street Fair from noon to 3 p.m.

Page 8 | festivalofwhales.com

T-shirts (long and short sleeve) and hooded sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both weekends of the festival.

WALKING DIRECTIONS FROM OCTA BUS STOP For those utilizing the OCTA bus stops on Pacific Coast Highway, the festival can be reached by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance or you can enter Doheny State Beach (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the green barrier fence, then proceed toward the beach to the marked Festival of Whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations.

The Dana Point Festival of Whales is an ocean-friendly event with many of our booths, displays and exhibits being very close to water’s edge.

We ask that all our sponsors and exhibitors keep this ocean location top-of-mind and refrain from using balloons, stickers, tattoos, flyers, single-serving water bottles or other materials that might find their way to the receiving waters of the Pacific Ocean.

We also ask all of our guests to keep these practices in mind as they spend a glorious day or weekend taking in the beauty of this special location.

Drinking fountains are plentiful for the refilling of water bottles that can be purchased at multiple event locations.

Or bring your own and refill throughout the day.

See the event map above for water fountain locations.

Please help us keep the Festival of Whales clean and green for generations to come.

Thank you. —Dana Point Festival of Whales

EVENT SCHEDULE WEEKEND 1 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28

SUNDAY, MARCH 2

6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Ocean Institute

SATURDAY, MARCH 1 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 1 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m.-Noon.

Pacific Coast Highway 2 Street Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. La Plaza Park 11 So Cal Woodies and Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Harbor walkway 15 Polynesian Connection 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach and Baby Beach Park 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center

16 6th Annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run 10K, 5K Run/Walk and Kids’ 1K Run 6:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Doheny State Beach 8 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast and Raffle with Entertainment 8 a.m.-11 a.m.

OC Sailing & Event Center 15 Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Baby Beach 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show and Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor Walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 11 So Cal Woodies and Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Harbor walkway 9 Kids Adventure Expo 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Dick Simon Yachts parking lot

13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley

3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 15 Ocean Awareness Day 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Baby Beach Park

3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip Noon-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Docks

15 Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Baby Beach

6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute

15 Diamond Dig 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Baby Beach

6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute 4 Lily: a Gray Whale Tribute 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari

15 Whale of a BBQ 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Baby Beach Park 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley

9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH

9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH

8 Polynesian Luau 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. OC Sailing & Event Center

6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute

6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 5:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 18 Movie in the Park: Finding Nemo Dusk.

Lantern Bay Park

6 12th Annual Ocean Institute Jazz Festival 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Ocean Institute

WEEKEND 2 FRIDAY, MARCH 7 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 17 Dana Point Symphony’s Symphony Spectacular 7 p.m. Public pier adjacent to the Ocean Institute

SATURDAY, MARCH 8 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 15 5th Annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup & BBQ 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Baby Beach 16 Whale of a Beach Cleanup 9 a.m.-noon.

Doheny State Beach 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor Walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 11 3rd Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Harbor walkway beginning at Island Way 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 14 Porsche 356 Club Southern California 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Waterfall Park on Dana Point Harbor Drive 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf dock 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 4 Movie Viewing: Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley

4 Captain Dave’s Carnival Noon-2 p.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 4 Lily: A Gray Whale Tribute 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari 6 Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tall Ship Sailing Adventure 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH 17 Dana Point Symphony Presents: Symphony Spectacular 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Public pier adjacent to the Ocean Institute 6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute

SUNDAY, MARCH 9 5 Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 8 a.m.noon. Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 7 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariner’s Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran at Dana Wharf Dock 11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 8 Sailing and Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.4 p.m. Westwind Sailing at OC Sailing & Event Center 16 Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center 15 Whale of a Concert on the Water, BBQ and Spirits Garden Noon-5 p.m. Baby Beach 10 Harbor Music Series Noon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf courtyard, Harpoon Henry’s grass area, Mariner’s Alley 9 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern and PCH

3 Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip Noon-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf docks

6 Seashore Interpretive Family Hike Time TBA based on tides. Tide pools near Ocean Institute #=Event location. See map on page 8. For more information, see www.festivalofwhales.com. festivalofwhales.com | Page 9

GET TO KNOW THE GREAT MIGRATORS Gray whales travel past the Dana Point coast each year as part of their annual 10,000-mile migration

By Sean Vogt, Natural Resources Protection Officer, City of Dana Point Gray whales are known as the great migrators. The grays seen during winter off the coast of Dana Point have already traveled nearly 5,000 miles. In the longest migration of any mammal, gray whales travel over 10,000 miles roundtrip from Arctic feeding waters to calving waters in Baja California, Mexico. Many people ask why this species of whale travels so far each year.

The answer is simple: female gray whales are fantastic mothers. Gray whale calves have the best chance of survival if they are born in the sheltered lagoons of Baja.

Entering the world in these warmer, more saline waters means calves can stay warm and easily float to the surface to breathe without wasting energy, thus expending more energy building up their blubber for the trip back to the Arctic. In addition, their main predators, orcas (also known as killer whales), are less able to gang up and kill calves while within these shallow lagoons. If orcas venture too close, adult gray whales can come together and use violent tail slaps to fend them off.

Generally, pregnant gray whales start arriving in Baja by late December, with most of them giving birth in January and February. Since gestation is approximately 12 to 13 months for this mammal, this is also the time that adult, non-pregnant females begin estrus and breeding. While it is possible for females to give birth each year, they typically give birth and mate in alternate years. Gray whale breeding behavior is complex, but quite the party, with groups mating during the southward migration and in the Baja lagoons from late November through early February.

Calves are approximately 14 feet in length and weigh a whopping 1,500 pounds at birth.

They spend approximately two months nursing.

The calves drink up to 50 gallons of milk, which is 53 percent fat, each day, before their mothers leave the protection of the lagoons and escort them to the Bering and Chukchi Seas off the Alaskan coast. During the northward migration, calves continue to nurse, relying on their protective and loving mothers to fend off predators and deliver them safely to their Arctic feeding grounds by June or July.

Mothers slowly wean their young off milk while teaching them how to feed on bottomdwelling invertebrates—mostly shrimp-like crustaceans. Gray whales spend the summer months in the Arctic building up fat reserves by feeding on up to 1 ton of little critters per day.

When fully grown, grays can weigh up to 40 tons and reach lengths of 45 feet. Instead of Page 10 | festivalofwhales.com

A gray whale raises its tail fluke while swimming off the coast of Dana Point. Photo by Debra Kettler

teeth, a gray whale’s upper jaw holds numerous overlapping plates of long, stiff hair-like structures called baleen. To feed, the whale sucks in water and sediment from the ocean floor, closes its mouth and forces the water and mud through its baleen, trapping millions of tiny invertebrates.

It then uses its 1-ton tongue to break up and swallow its catch.

When days begin to shorten in October, Arctic waters begin to cool and the ice pack increases. This signals the start of yet another southward migration and the natural cycle repeats itself.

Many press releases this winter have touted a dramatic increase in near-shore gray whale sightings this migration season. This December and January, monitors on the Palos Verdes peninsula counted the third-highest number on record since the 1980s. However, large-scale trends and anecdotal evidence actually indicate a decrease in near-shore sightings in southern California since the early 1970s. This is despite a consistent increase in the number of gray whales. The trending movement away from near-shore routes may be a result of natural factors, but more likely is due to increased noise pollution from sonar and boat engines, harassment by recreational and commercial vessels and ship strikes near the coast in shallow-water fishing spots and shipping lanes.

Because gray whales are intelligent animals with average life spans similar to humans (up to

Sean Vogt, Natural Resources Protection Officer for the city of Dana Point. Photo by Andrea Swayne

80 years), it seems reasonable to hypothesize these creatures communicate with each other and avoid areas where they were previously harassed. Currently, only a fraction of migrating grays actually follow the Southern California shore. Most are too far off shore to see from the mainland—using the Channel Islands as navigational markers—so it would be a shame to force these special few away. The federal government passed the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, or MMPA, to combat the issues that

could cause many of the approximately 20,000 remaining gray whales to steer clear of a nearshore route.

Amended in 2012, the MMPA is the most recent national protective legislation in response to a long history of whaling. The MMPA is a piece of comprehensive legislation designed to protect all marine mammals in the United States, including otters, manatees, seals, sea lions, dolphins and whales. The MMPA states that “the act of hunting, killing, capture, and/or harassment of any marine mammal; or, the attempt at such” is illegal. Gray whales in the Pacific Ocean are still hunted by humans—mostly legal subsistence hunting by indigenous populations in Russia and the U.S.—and were nearly hunted to extinction by the early 1900s. European and U.S. whalers killed at least 10,000 gray whales between 1840 and 1900 along the west coast of North America. Thankfully, the International Whaling Commission made it an international crime to hunt gray whales (as well as most other whale species) in the 1940s, which is likely the only reason grays still exist on our coast. Atlantic gray whales were not as lucky, as they were likely hunted to extinction by European whalers prior to the end of the 18th century.

In order to be in compliance with the MMPA, the average person simply needs to learn about how these majestic creatures interact with the environment and avoid disrupting their behaviors. For example, boats should travel at a safe speed and never cut in front of a marine mammal’s path of travel or encircle it. The MMPA states that all vessels must observe from a safe distance of at least 300 feet. Whales can be curious and often approach boats. Viewing them in this manner is not illegal, as it is beyond the boater’s control. In this case, place the boat in neutral and enjoy the whale until it is ready to move on. Perhaps the whales will put on a show and leap out of the water, creating an unforgettable moment. For those that do not do well on boats, the conservation areas atop the Dana Point Headlands offer some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and its inhabitants in Orange County.

Sean Vogt has a Master of Science degree from CSU, Fullerton and more than 10 years of experience studying marine biology. As the Natural Resources Protection Officer for the city of Dana Point, Vogt manages the Nature Interpretive Center at the Dana Point Headlands, open-space parks adjacent to the Center for Natural Lands Management Preserve and the Marine Protected Area along the city coastline.

With the help of nearly 100 volunteers, Vogt launched citizen-science wildlife monitoring programs late last year, including surveying marine mammals visible from the Headlands.

WHALE WATCHING EXCURSIONS See why Dana Point is the ‘Whale Capital of the West’ Most boat excursions are 2-3 hours long. Reservations are recommended.

Dana Wharf Whale Watching Expert captains and certified naturalists narrate each excursion, detailing the whales’ movements through their natural migration path.

As the originator of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf remains family owned and operated and is exclusively endorsed by worldrenowned marine life artist Wyland. Marine Mammal “rain checks” ensure you see a good show of whales or dolphins, or your next trip is free. Excursions depart every hour, on the hour, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during festival weekends.

Trips run approximately two hours. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and military, children 3-12 years $25 and children under 2 are free. Want a whale of a deal? All 8 a.m. trips are

just $15 per person.

Marine mammal lecture and whale watching trip combos are offered both weekends for a oneon-one educational experience with guest marine biologists. Tickets are $55 for adults, $35 for seniors and children 3-12, and children under 2 are free. Tickets include the lecture and continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by a 2.5-hour whale watching trip aboard the luxurious 63-foot, state-of-the-art, OCean Adventures catamaran at 11:30 a.m. or 2 p.m. A specially priced sunset trip with cocktails, wine and beer, runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $25. For reservations call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or log on to www.danawharf.com.

Courtesy of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari The most unique whale watching trips in the world puts visitors eye-to-eye with dolphins and whales via underwater viewing pods. It feels like swimming with wild dolphins and whales but without getting wet. Capt. Dave’s high-speed, high-tech catamaran Lily comfortably carries only 49 passengers and a smaller, more intimate catamaran carries 20 passengers, so trips are never crowded. Listen in on the sounds of marine mammals below the surface with a research hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often led

by Capt. Dave Anderson himself, whose award winning film on wild dolphins and whales has drawn people from all over the world to Dana Point.

Courtesy of Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Ocean Institute Gray Whale Adventure Cruise More than just a whale watch, the Ocean Institute’s Gray Whale Adventure Cruises introduce participants to whales and many other marine animals using state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers, touch tanks, viewing aquariums and video microscopes. Two viewing levels and a bowsprit stretching out over the water provide visitors with a breathtaking view of dolphins, whales, sea lions and other ocean life. Learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns from the Institute’s experienced and knowledgeable captains and educators. Indulge your inner scientist with this unique opportunity to experience one of the greatest mammal migrations on Earth, aboard the Ocean Institute’s 65-foot research vessel R/V Sea Explorer. As Page 12 | festivalofwhales.com

an educational platform the vessel is ideal. This floating lab plays an important part in the nationally recognized, nonprofit educational facility’s educational programming. Throughout the year, research conducted aboard the vessel is integrated into the Ocean Institute’s curriculum offered to over 15,000 students annually.

The 2.5-hour cruises are offered at 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4 to 12 years old. Children must be at least 4 years old to attend. Non-member pricing is $35 for adults and $22 for children. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase. For more information and reservations, call 949.496.2274 or log on to www.ocean-institute.org.

Courtesy of The Ocean Institute

The fronts of Capt. Dave’s catamarans are low to the water offering an up close view of sea animals. An onboard whale and dolphin micro-museum adds an extra fun and educational opportunity to learn more about marine mammals. Trips are broadcast live on www. whalewatchingtv.com so you can wave to family and friends tuned in online at home. And one of the best perks of the trip is Mrs. Captain Dave’s delicious triple fudge brownies, served as a special treat on the ride back. Mention this article for 10 percent discount. Special offer is good during the Festival of Whales only. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.

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Dine & Shop 7

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GETTING OUT

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YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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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

ELK COVE WINERY TASTING 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Featured wine tasting at San Clemente Wine Company.

Tasting fee includes cheese plate. 212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

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SOCSA IMPROV NIGHT 7 p.m. South Orange County School of the Arts performance in Porthole Theater.

33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.

LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT 7:30 p.m.9:30 p.m. Clive Carroll, acoustic finger-style guitar master from the UK performs at the Dana Point Community House. Admission $30. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

AT THE MOVIES

‘THE MONUMENTS MEN’ DISPLAYS PLENTY Eight years ago, a fascinating documentary titled The Rape of Europa chronicled the work of a small platoon of historians and curators who attempted to rescue a number of timeless art being destroyed by the Nazis throughout Europe. The documentary received much acclaim. Last year, George Clooney got a surge of inspiration to shoot his own screen adaptation of the story with his usual collaborators, as well as some new ones, in The Monuments Men. The onscreen platoon includes Americans Frank Stokes (Clooney), James Granger (Matt Damon), Richard Campbell (Bill Murray), Walter Garfield (John Goodman), Preston Savitz (Bob Balaban), Frenchman Jean Claude Clermont (Jean Dujardin) and Brit Donald Jeffries (Hugh Bonn© 2013 Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. and Twentieth eville), with the help of French rebellion member Claire Simone (Cate Blanchett) Century Fox Film Corporation. to save art history in 1943 France. Taglines for the film hail it as “the greatest heist of all time.” Audiences might notice that the film is almost like a WWII version of Ocean’s Eleven, but the ensemble seeks art instead of money and Blanchett is the female role instead of Julia Roberts. Many of the actors have collaborated before and seem to have kept their celluloid chemistry intact. But while Clooney’s new biopic is fun and lighthearted, it doesn’t keep us as intrigued as Europa or entertained as Eleven, due to a lack of heart and genuine thrills. —Megan Bianco

SOUTH COAST SINGERS AUDITIONS 9 a.m. South Coast Singers is holding spring season auditions in the Dana Hills High School choir room. Call for more details about the audition process. 949.613.7840, www.southcoastsingers.org.

BACKYARD SKILLS WORKSHOP 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Gain hands-on skills at The Ecology Center by making your own cheese. Understand culturing techniques, tools, materials and ingredients. Tickets $20 member, $30 non-members. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

sunday

CASA ART EXHIBIT 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Final day to view Casa Romantica’s exhibit titled “The Mystery of the Ordinary” featuring the work of neo-realist painter/artist Michael Ward. Admission $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

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MIKE SCARPIELLO 8 p.m. Dinner and music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

THREE MUSTACHES 8:30 p.m. Live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

saturday

WILDFLOWER WALK 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Local wildflower expert Bob Allen leads an exploration looking for early wildflowers at The Reserve/ Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Admission $5-$10. Call for directions.

949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

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THE LIGHT IN THE PIAZZA 2:30 p.m., 8 p.m. The award-winning musical with a love story twist is presented by the South Coast Repertory. 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.5555, www.scr.org.

MIKE WALLACE 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Dana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

Gianna Plaitano holds up her pet guinea pig, Ballet, during last year’s Kids Pet Parade.

Photo by Brian Park

EDITOR’S PICK: KID’S PET PARADE Noon-5 p.m. The Fiesta Association hosts this annual event and contest at Zoomars Petting Zoo where kids and pets can dress up and join the parade. Entry $3. 31791 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

monday

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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.

tuesday

COOKING CLASS: COMFORT FOODS 6:30 p.m.

Cooking class with Chef Caroline Cazaumayou at Antoine’s Café featuring Guinness beef stew with carrots and gorgonzola mashed potatoes. Cost $50 each; includes recipes, dinner and a glass of wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

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OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 p.m. Brio Tuscany Grille.

24050 Camino del Avion, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

wednesday

FOOD TRUCKS AT SAN CLEMENTE HIGH 5 p.m.-8 p.m. An array of food trucks gathers every Wednesday at San Clemente High School.

Proceeds benefit the marching band. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.492.4165, www.sctritons.com.

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BILINGUAL STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. Stories in English and Spanish at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

thursday

THE ART OF HEALTHY AGING: THE ACCIDENTAL PHOTOGRAPHER 1:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Exhibit display and lecture with guest speaker Karyn R. Millet at Bowers Museum. Tickets $10. 2002 N. Main St., Santa Ana, 877.250.8999, www.bowers.org.

ECO-APPRENTICES: INFO SESSION 6 p.m-7 p.m. Learn about The Ecology Center’s three-month permaculture design certification course.

Free. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

MANDELRING QUARTET: BEETHOVEN-THE LATE GREAT 3 p.m. Concert at Irvine Barclay Theater. Tickets start at $35. 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.4646, www.thebarclay.org.

SATIN BLUES 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

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

LUCINDA WILLIAMS 7 p.m. Singer-songwriter plays The Coach House. Tickets $45. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

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*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

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PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

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

D a n a Po i nt

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

Featured Filmmaker: Kevin M. Slee

GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Chris Wright

WHAT AM I GOING TO READ NEXT? Fresh library offerings take readers to Myanmar, Korea, Afghanistan and beyond

OC native, Dana Hills graduate finds early film industry success

By Megan Bianco Dana Point Times

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very community has one local who goes off to become famous or very successful. In Southern California, the chances can be higher given the proximity to Hollywood.

Kevin Slee dreamed of making films throughout his childhood, and at only 24, he is already a steady independent filmmaker and producer. His latest film endeavor, Blake Robbins’ The Sublime and Beautiful, was featured at Park City’s Slamdance Film Festival in January. Add that to working behind the scenes of two big Hollywood features within the last year, Slee is hardly struggling.

Growing up in Laguna Niguel, Slee had big ambitions to be involved in all aspects of movie making.

“I was always telling stories as a kid, beginning with home videos,” Kevin said.

As a student at Niguel Hills Middle School, he was already creating short films with friends and locals across Laguna Niguel, Dana Point and San Clemente. Back then, Slee’s films centered on skateboarding and surfing.

By the time he got to Dana Hills High School Slee tried photography, before attending film courses at Saddleback Community College and later a summer residency at Chapman University. The latter would become his alma mater for film school. While studying photography, Slee began learning the process of screenwriting as well.

Slee was already working on profesDana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

I Dana Hills High School graduate and young filmmaker Kevin Slee. Courtesy photo

sional motion pictures by the time he was a freshman in college through an internship with David Foster Productions. The experience would land him jobs on the sets of Hollywood movies, which he still makes time for these days. He was a part of the productions of Saving Mr. Banks (2013) and Veronica Mars (2014) as an assistant, and Slee considers the experiences “amazing opportunities.”

He has also worked as a producer on three shorts and four feature-length films, including Steven Sprung’s Dispatch, which was shown at the Hollywood Film Festival in 2011; Chris Geukens’ Step 17, which won Best Short Film at the Orange County Film Festival in 2007; and now Sublime and Beautiful shown at Slamdance. Slee also wrote and directed eight of his own features, such as The King of the Jews (2009) and Good Knight (2012).

A native of Orange County, Slee visits his family and friends in Laguna Niguel and Dana Point mostly during the holidays and even made a trip back to Dana Point to film a work during college.

These days, he’s furthering his career in Santa Monica while living in Hollywood.

Kevin said he enjoys all aspects of filmmaking, whether it is crew work, writing or producing, and he plans on making movies commercially and independently.

The young filmmaker believes that “specialty and honesty make a film good.” DP

n addition to all the books you hear about because their authors are appearing on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart,” “Charlie Rose,” “The Colbert Report,” etc., there are plenty of newer books at the Dana Point Library that might just be for you. Here are some recent ones you might not have heard about and one you can’t stop hearing enough about (at least the movie version): Nightmare Range: The Collected Sueño and Bascom Short Stories by Martin Limón—Set in the Republic of Korea during the 1970s, we get a realistic picture of two young, brash sergeants named Sueño and Bascom, who are agents in the Criminal Investigation Division. Limón blends the military culture of the U.S. Army and Korean culture into some startling, sad and funny stories about bar girls, GIs, black marketers, North Korean spies and always the brass. This collection of short stories was published in September 2013 and follows eight separate novels of the duo. Sueño and Bascom are all about following orders when it suits them and they can be relied upon to get into trouble routinely, but usually it’s because they are doing the right thing.

The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by JanPhillip Sendker—It’s weird, charming and a beautiful love story that reminds one of Tennyson’s Enoch Arden. The story is set in Burma and involves a father and wealthy New York lawyer who flees his family and disappears. We have two parallel stories being told: the daughter seeking her father in Burma and the story of the father growing up in rural Burma. I’m surprised Oprah hasn’t touted

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this book. With all the hoopla over tourism to Myanmar or Burma these days, this is one book to get you into the mood for the trip.

Lone Survivor: The Eyewitness Account of READING WITH Operation Redwing and WRIGHT the Lost Heroes of SEAL

By Chris Wright Team 10 by Marcus Luttrell with Patrick Robinson—Commercials for the Lone Survivor film have inundated the airwaves. But, you must read the book first. It’s a classic morality tale of good and evil. There is a lot of emotion in the book and rants by the author. That aside, the story is told in a compelling manner. It’s just unbelievable that Marcus survived to tell the story. It’s a tale of courage, not only of the Navy SEALs but the Afghan villagers who protected him from the Taliban.

You get a real appreciation for the training they received and how it prepared them so well. This story is a case study in military ethics and hopefully the movie does the book justice.

Chris Wright is not sure if he lives to read or if he reads to live. He has been a public librarian with the OC Public Libraries since 2006. DP 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

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

Prepping for Disaster Officials act out disaster for Camp Pendleton training exercise

By Catherine Manso Dana Point Times

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ndrew Brunhart, general manager for the South Coast Water District, San Clemente Mayor Tim Brown, and other officials from southern Orange County became the first key area authority figures to engage in Marine Core Combat Readiness Evaluation at Camp Pendleton on Feb. 8.

MCCRE is a five-day training exercise where U.S. Marines practice protocol and drills in the event of a crisis. The exercise created a staged event, such as an invasion or catastrophe and had Marines rehearse in real time. The simulation began at 4 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 3 and finished Saturday, Feb. 8, by sunset.

On the last day, Marines helped role-playing citizens’ return to a safe and functioning environment. The scenario for Saturday’s exercise was an invasion; the country of “San Diego” invaded “Pendletonia.” Marines had

Andrew Brunhart (left), general manager for the South Coast Water District, was among a number of Orange County officials who participated in a disaster training exercise at Camp Pendleton. Photo by Catherine Manso

to work and cooperate with local authorities, press and civilians.

Brunhart was among a number of officials from Orange County that participated in the weekend training. While playing the role of Pendletonia’s city manager, Brunhart made demands and put pressure on the Marines to help decontaminate the mock village’s water supply. In a major disaster a similar process would go into effect, where Brunhart would activate the SCWD’s emer-

gency operations.

“In a real catastrophe there are several top priorities: protecting public health and maintaining water quality standards, also maintaining, restoring and establishing water services,” Brunhart said.

Each local official involved had experiences in their careers that contributed in assisting with Saturday’s training.

“It was a privilege to assist with the training of those that go in harm’s way,”

Burhart said. “It was heart-warming for me to reinforce what I learned, and it was, as a retired United States Navy Seabee with over 30 years of active service, I was proud to observe the readiness and dedication the United States Marines asserted today.”

This exercise occurs before a battalion is set for deployment and more than 1,000 Marines were involved. The First Battalion, Fifth Marine Regiment is leaving for Darwin, Australia in March. DP

SPORTS

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& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

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SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

DANA HILLS FOOTBALL HONORS THE VALOR

A yearlong initiative put on by the Dana Hills Honor the Valor fundraising team came to a close on Feb. 13, when football players, fellow students and parent organizers presented the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group with a total of $31,500 in donations. The ceremony was held during lunch break in the quad at Dana Hills High School.

Honor the Valor had been raising funds at city events and football games throughout the year. Commemorative hats and T-shirts, as well as donations, were collected at 22 Dana Point city

From L to R: The VFW’s Bob Fowler, Dana Hills senior Matthew Stafford, VFW post commander Maurice Hansen and Gerry Bill at the Honor the Valor presentation. Photo by Madison May

events. The Honor the Valor team was also a strong presence at every Dolphins home game. This year, Capistrano

Toyota donated a car that was raffled off under the Friday night lights.

The crowning moment took place Nov. 1, when 70 military veterans took the field following a Dolphins home game and were awarded game-worn jerseys by Dolphins players. Each custom, camouflaged jersey was adorned with the name of a veteran on the back.

“It was a lot of work but it was so worth it,” said Honor the Valor co-chair Kirsten Stafford. “It’s amazing. Everyone was able to thank the veterans personally. That’s what is so special about it.” —Steve Breazeale

Capistrano Coyotes Clinch Title in Inaugural Season

By Steve Breazeale Dana Point Times

I

n a season filled with firsts, the Capistrano Coyotes ice hockey team clinched the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League Varsity 2A division on Feb. 10. The newly formed team, which draws players from across the Capistrano Unified School District, accomplished the feat in its first season in the league.

The Coyotes (13-0-1) put up another convincing stat line in a 6-1 victory over Long Beach Prep, which sealed the league title.

Dana Point High School’s Paul Boutoussov scored first for the Coyotes to give them a 1-0 lead heading into the second period.

It was in the second period where

the Coyotes' signature high-powered offense took off. The team scored four unanswered goals, including another by Boutoussov and contributions from Cooper Bird, Alec Grollman and Max Kamper.

Zach Wollivar netted the Coyotes' final goal in the third period on a feed from Dylan Zanki and Connor Reed. The assist from Reed was his fourth on the night, which put him at the top of the league scoring leaders with 35 points (13 goals, 22 assists).

The Capistrano Coyotes remained the only unbeaten team in regulation and earned the No. 1 seed in the upcoming ADHSHL playoffs. As the top seed, they will have a bye in the first round. Their quarterfinals match is set for Feb. 28 at Anaheim Ice. They will play the winner of the No. 7 and No. 8 seeded matchup. DP

Dolphin Report

By Steve Breazeale

The CIF-SS playoffs are officially upon us, which means for each Dana Hills winter sports team that has advanced to the final tournament, every game from here on out is the most important one of the season. This week’s Dolphin Report will break down the playoff matches that have already taken place and prime you for the games still to be played this week.

For in-game updates and news throughout the playoffs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

BOYS BASKETBALL SET FOR PLAYOFF SHOWDOWN WITH INGLEWOOD The newly minted Sea View League co-champion Dana Hills boys basketball team was awarded a home game in the first round of the CIF-SS DiviDana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

Dana Hills senior center James Taylor will be a key player in the Dolphins boys basketball CIF-SS Championships run. Photo by Steve Breazeale

sion 1AA Championships.

The Dolphins (21-5, 7-1 league) will host Inglewood (15-11, 7-3) on Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.

Inglewood finished third in the Ocean League and has an impressive preseason resume. The Sentinels did not shy away from facing tough opposition, having played games against Chaminade (No. 2 in Division 3A), Redondo Union (No. 1 in Division 2AA) and Gahr (No. 14 in Division

Cooper Bird celebrates his second period goal in the Capistrano Coyotes 6-1 win over Long Beach Prep.

The win clinched the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League varsity 2A division for the Coyotes.

Photo by Leslie Bird

3AA). All three of those contests resulted in losses for Inglewood.

Inglewood also squared off twice in league against Division 3AA No. 6 Beverly Hills, where they lost by a combined total of nine points.

All indications point to Inglewood coming into the playoffs a seasoned group, having already tested themselves against some of the better teams in their area.

The Dolphins resume is no slouch either. They’ve toppled the likes of Saddleback Valley Christian, Woodbridge and Tustin and came up one win short of sweeping their way through league play.

The Dolphins will rely, as they have done all season, on the play of their four standout seniors. The combination of Jack Sheffield, Jack Clendenen, Eric Matheis and James Taylor has been effective and they will need production from all four if they are to advance.

It’s no secret that Dana Hills’ strength lies in their big frontcourt. Teams have continuously thrown extra help to the middle on defense in hopes of bottling up the 6-foot-8-inch Taylor. If the Dolphins

Page 14

can knock down open jump shots from the field, while mixing in production down low from their big man, they could make another deep run like they did in 2013.

Role players like Graden Yould, who checks in off the bench and occasionally gets a starting nod, and designated shooter Parker Romo could be difference makers, especially if Romo gets hot from beyond the 3-point arc.

DOLPHINS GIRLS WATER POLO ADVANCES TO SECOND ROUND OF PLAYOFFS The Dana Hills girls water polo team started off their CIF-SS Division 2 Championship run with a convincing 16-7 win over Roosevelt on Feb. 18 in the first round.

The Dolphins had eight players score goals, including a game-high four-goal effort from Madison Baba.

Dana Hills outscored Roosevelt in every period but the fourth, and took a commanding 14-4 lead into the final frame.

The Dolphins were set to play Agoura on the road Feb. 20. Results were not available at press time. www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

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

FOR SALE $159 - QUEEN PILLOWTOP MATTRESS! Brand NEW, brand name, still sealed in the MFRs original factory plastic. Not refurbished, Not used. 949-682-5351 10 PIECE LANE FORMAL MEDITERRANEAN DINING SET. 1970 solid Cherry Wood.

Hexagonal pedestal dining table, 2 leaves, six cane-backed chairs. Hutch, China Cabinet, Buffet Server. Sold as a set. $1,900 or best offer. Cannot deliver. Must be picked up. Call MaryLou at (949) 366-2464.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

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Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@danapointtimes.com

SURF STUFF MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $85. Call or text 949.533.9761.

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

DERMATOLOGY

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Nona Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.2275 Organics Out Back 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com www.organicsoutback.com

ART INSTALLATION Pro Art Installation 310.597.9991 212 Avenida Victoria, Erikvl81@gmail.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

PSYCHOTHERAPY

LANDSCAPING

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

949.354.2258

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949.488.2648 Organics Out Back 949.354.2258 Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, 449 Avenida Crespi, www.organicsoutback.com www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

LOCKSMITH

Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6916

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

PSYCHIATRY Dr. Robert Dobrin, M.D. 949-707-4757 Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry/Behavioral Pediatrics 33971 Selva Rd. Ste, 125

Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL delta G electrical 949.360.9282 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Dream Team Properties 949.481.1788 CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Mike Rosenberg, Broker 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Capistrano Beach, www.FindMyOCHome.com IMAGES/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 117 Del Gado Road, www.imgs.com

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

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

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

UPHOLSTERY 949.496.3315 Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION Offshore Construction 949.499.4464 www.offshoreconstruction.org 949.496.9731

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

949.444.6323

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” Call Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

DP SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK LILY BENJAMIN

Age: 14, Marco Forster Middle School When her school surf team needed girl shortboarders, Lily Benjamin, a longboarder since the age of 6, answered the call. “I was definitely up for the challenge,” she said. She is now in eighth grade and in her third year on the team, competing in the Scholastic Surf Series, where she is ranked No. 6. She also surfs in the Christian Surfing Federation and Western Surfing Association. In the WSA ratings, she holds down the No. 9 spot in Open Women Longboard, No. 13 in Girls U16 Shortboard and No. 17 in Open Women Shortboard. Lily credits her family, coaches Patrick Derry and Dustin Martnick and shapers the Boehne Bros. for her surfing success. At school, Lily takes an extra period helping as an aide in Lily Benjamin. Courtesy photo the special education class taught by her surf coach. “I learn so much from that class, interacting with the kids and from Mr. Derry,” she said. “It’s mind-blowing. I don’t even know how to describe it. It’s my favorite part of the day.” School is of utmost importance to Lily and she is determined to finish middle school having never earned anything less than straight-As. She is college-bound and although traveling the world as a pro surfer appeals to her, she says it will never take precedence over her education. “I’m not sure about what I want to study in college or do after that, but I’ve definitely thought about a career as a special ed teacher,” Lily said.—Andrea Swayne

The Race is On

RESULTS WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 7, February 15-16, Huntington Beach, Pier. First-place and local finishers only.

KEY: SC=San Clemente, DP=Dana Point, CB=Capistrano Beach, SJC=San Juan Capistrano.

WSA end of season competition reaches new heights, locals excel

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

W

ith only two contests left in the Western Surfing Association regular season, the competition is heating up as surfers scramble for late series points on the hunt for season titles.

For many local surfers this end-of-season push has been a boon to their ratings.

Event No. 7 (of nine) played out Feb. 15-16 at the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier in 2- to 4-foot surf. The contest had more than 400 entries in 24 divisions.

With the West Coast Championship around the corner, May 10-11 at Church Beach, competitors need to ensure they have the required five contests to surf in the WCC and/or the necessary seven events to qualify for season titles. But WSA results aren’t the only thing on the line. Surfers are vying for spots in the Surfing America USA Championships in June and for the 18 and under athletes, good results could mean an invitation to the Surfing America Prime series.

“The end of the season is always fun to watch because everyone is really intense

Four of the Boys U12 finalists at the Feb. 15-16 WSA event in Huntington Beach are San Clemente residents. Finalists are (L to R) 1. Kade Matson, San Clemente; 2. Jabe Swiercocki; 3. Jett Schilling, San Clemente; 4. Kai McPhillips, San Clemente; 5. Jack Stewart and 6. Hagan Johnson, San Clemente.

Photo by Sheri Crummer

Dana Point Times February 21-27, 2014

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

Three local surfers made podium appearances in WSA Girls U14 Shortboard division, Feb. 15-16 at the Huntington Beach Pier. Finalists are (L to R) 1.

Alyssa Spencer; 2. Samantha Sibley, San Clemente; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, San Clemente; 4. Tiare Thompson; 5. Cameron Duby, San Juan Capistrano and Gabriella Knudson. Photo by Sheri Crummer

in the lineup, but on the beach we still see the usual good times and camaraderie,” said Mary Lou Drummy, WSA executive director of the San Clemente-based amateur surfing organization. “Even this late we try to keep a nice balance of intensity and good vibes at our events.”

Local surfers occupied more than a third of the podium spots, many taking home trophies in multiple divisions.

Double finalists from San Clemente were Cody Canzoneri (Open Men, Open Men Longboard), Kade Matson (Boys U12, U14), Kei Kobayashi (Boys U16, Open Men) and Kaimana Takayama (Jr. Longboard U18, Open Men Longboard).

Cameron Duby of San Juan Capistrano took home three trophies in Girls U14, U14 Longboard and Open Women Longboard. Triple finalists from San Clemente were: Kirra Pinkerton (Girls U12, U14 and U18), Malia Osterkamp (Girls U16, U18 and Open Women) and Samantha Sibley, who made the finals in Girls U12, U14 and Open Women.

“I’ve improved my mental game a lot and have to keep working on my technique, but I feel pretty good going into the last two contests. I think I have a good shot at some titles,” Sibley said. “There’s

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 59-61 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’+ Fair Immediate: A new northwest swell mix continues through the day, getting some reinforcements late. Size holds steady as a modest new south-southwest swell joins in, with generally favorable conditions continuing in the morning before a westerly seabreeze develops in the afternoon. Look for mainly waist-chest high (3-4’) surf to show for the better winter exposures, while select magnets produce occasional slightly larger waves/peaks to shoulder/head high.

Long Range Outlook: A modest to locally fun-zone blend of old northwest swell mix and peaking new south-southwest swell shows through the weekend. Expect the most size at top combo exposures, with peaky shape likely for the beachbreaks. Winds look to remain favorable for the mornings, before onshore flow develops each afternoon.

Check out all the details at Surfline.com.

really good competition, and the girls in U14 especially keep getting better and better. It makes me work harder. I really like surfing WSA because in the water, when it’s on, it’s on. But on the beach is where I’ve met some of my very best friends.”

For full schedules, results and ratings, visit www.surfwsa.org. DP

Page 18

MICRO GROM BOYS/GIRLS U9: 1. Hayden Rodgers, Laguna Beach; 2. Bryce Pinkerton, SC; 4. Cannon Carr, SC; 6. Dane Matson, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Noa Dupouy, Mimizan, France; 4. Brayden Burch, SC; 6. Dax McPhillips, SC. BOYS U12: 1. Kade Matson, SC; 3. Jett Schilling, SC; 4. Kai McPhillips, SC; 6. Hagan Johnson, SC. BOYS U14: 1. Dagan Stagg, Carlsbad; 3. Kade Matson, SC; 4.

Noah Hohenester, SC. BOYS U16: 1. Kei Kobayashi, SC; 6.

Curran Dand, SC. BOYS U18: 1. Jay Christenson, San Diego; 4. Drew Hemnes, SC. GIRLS U12: 1. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC. GIRLS U14: 1. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 5. Cameron Duby, SJC. GIRLS U16: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC. GIRLS U18: 1. Lea Taylor, Indialantic, Fla.; 2. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 4. Kirra Pinkerton, SC. BOYS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Ricky Fodor, DP; 4. Jimmy Wynne, SC. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 1. Nick Anderberg, Encinitas; 2. Kaimana Takayama, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Cameron Duby, SJC; 5. Malia Mauch, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U18: 1. Frankie Seely, Topanga; 2. Emmy Lombard, SC; 3. Teresa O’Connor, SJC; 5. Kyla Kelley, CB. MEN 18-29: 1. Daniel Sanchez, Westminster; 2. Ricky Lovato, SC. MASTERS 30-39: 1. Steve Moore, Encinitas; 6. Jimmy Bray, SC. SENIOR MEN 40-49: 1. Pedro Diaz Rangel, Oceanside. LEGENDS 50+: 1. Dale Baker, SC. OPEN MEN SHORTBOARD: 1. Jarrod Bell, Huntington Beach; 4. Cody Canzoneri, SC; 5. Kei Kobayashi, SC. OPEN WOMEN: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 1. Trae Candy, Malibu; 4. Kaimana Takayama, SC; 5. Cody Canzoneri, SC; 6. Eric Skvarna, SJC. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Cameron Duby, SJC; 4. Lexi Morgan, SC. SR. MEN LONGBOARD 40+: 1.

Terry Gillard, Imperial Beach; 4. Michael Takayama, SC; 5. Eric Rendon, SC. ADAPTIVE SURFERS: 1. Chris Oberle, Los Angeles.

For full results, see www.danapointtimes.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS March 1-2: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 8, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty March 1-2: NSSA Open, Event No. 8, Ventura, C Street March 22: SSS, OC Middle School and High School, Event No. 5, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street March 22-23: NSSA Explorer, Events No. 9 and 10, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty March 29-30: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 9, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach March 29-30: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 9, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach April 19-20: NSSA Open, Event No. 9, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty April 26-27: NSSA Open, Event No. 10, San Onofre State Park, Upper Trestles May 10-11: WSA West Coast Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach May 15-18: NSSA West Coast Championships, Huntington Beach, Pier May 31-June 1: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 6, Oceanside, Harbor North Jetty (New date) June 13-15: Surfing America USA Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach June 17-21: Surfing America USA Championships, San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles

www.danapointtimes.com