March 21, 2014

LO C A L

N EWS

March 21-27, 2014

YO U

C A N

U S E

DP’S Valenti Crowned Big Wave Champ DP SURF/PAGE 14

VOLUME 7, ISSUE 12

Pulling Together Capistrano Beach launches a joint effort to bring about short- and long-term change E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

Business owners and residents of Capistrano Beach are joining forces to find solutions to problems and transform the area into the vibrant community they believe it can be. Photo: Brian Park

Skatepark Supporters ask City to Consider Action Sport Benefits EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

Eagle Scout Dedicates Project to 5th Marine Regiment DP LIVING/PAGE 10

Dana Hills Senior Named Playoff MVP in Championship Run SPORTS/PAGE 12

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

crosswalks to conform to the American with Disabilities Act, according to county officials. Additionally, mechanisms will be installed on bridge piers to prevent future corrosion.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors awarded a $1.42 million contract in January to a Gardena-based construction firm for needed repairs and upgrades to Island Way Bridge, which links Dana Point Harbor and Dana drives. The bridge was built in 1969 and was seismically retrofitted in 2001.

Five things Dana Point should know this week Local Skatepark Movement Takes Shape THE LATEST: A line of skateboards and colorful helmets provided a different sight at City Hall Tuesday as more than 50 local skateboarding supporters gathered to let the Dana Point City Council know they want a skatepark in town.

Dozens of supporters of the community organization Skatepark of Dana Point filled the chamber’s entryway, waiting for their chance to speak. Six representatives went before the body asking members to consider the benefits of supporting traditional and action sports alike.

“I see no difference in the kids and families participating in skateboarding and surfing compared to those participating in traditional sports, however there is a major difference in the support these two groups receive from local government,” said Ben Classen, an action-sports media professional.

Speakers highlighted Dana Point’s role as a cultural epicenter for surf and skate and how action sports help drive the local economy and give kids, uninterested in team sports, an outlet where they can thrive, build relationships and even find their careers.

WHAT’S NEXT: Under the state’s Brown Act, the council is not allowed to take action on issues raised during public comments but can ask staff to agendize an item for future discussion. The fivemember body made no such request, but organizers are not discouraged.

“The goal of last night’s meeting was just to introduce us,” said Skatepark of Dana Point organizer Brandon Phillips.

“We want to educate them on skateboarding being not just part of our local culture but also of international culture.”—Andrea Papagianis

WHAT’S NEXT: One lane of traffic and one sidewalk will be open at all times, said Hamid Abedzadeh, senior resident engineer with Orange County Public Works.—AP

Skateboards are lined up outside Council Chambers Tuesday night as more than 50 young skateboarders, parents and skatepark supporters wait to talk to the City Council about bringing an action-sports park to Dana Point. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

The agencies oversee Orange County’s toll systems, which includes the 73, 133, 241 and 261 toll roads.

Kraman presented a TCA update Tuesday night to the Dana Point City Council.

Councilman Bill Brough asked for an update in February after the Foothill/ Eastern board, which Mayor Lisa Bartlett chairs, voted unanimously to change a sixyear loophole for contract approvals.

The board universally rescinded a 2008 provision granting the CEO authority to approve contracts, up to $25,000, for legislative support and strategy measures.

Contract extensions had to be approved by the chairperson. Similar contractual authority is practiced by governing bodies nationwide and CEOs and chairpersons of the Foothill/Eastern agency, since 2008, had gone along with the provision, Kramer told the council.

The practice was done away with to make board happenings more transparent, according to Bartlett.

WHAT’S NEXT: Brough was critical of Bartlett’s representation of Dana Point on the TCA board and called for her to be removed. Councilman Steven Weinberg praised Bartlett’s work. There was no removal action taken.—AP

Council Receives Update on TCA Changes

Town Center Development Fees Get OK’d

THE LATEST: The Transportation Corridor Agencies two governing bodies appointed chief engineer Michael Kraman as acting chief executive officer this week, following the exit of CEO Neil Peterson amid questions of contracts approved outside the public eye.

THE LATEST: Through multiple motions and votes Tuesday, the Dana Point City Council eliminated two citywide development fees while opting for a single fee to recover some of the estimated $20.7 million being spent on the Town Center/ Lantern District project.

Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

The council unanimously moved to do away with the general and transportation development impact fees, but had a split 3-2 vote, with Councilmen Carlos Olvera and Bill Brough dissenting, on establishing a new downtown-centric development fee. Staff expressed hope the city could recoup some $2.5 to $3 million but said projections were hard to make with so many development factors unknown.

The now-null development fees brought the city a combined $23,000 annual average in recent years, down from an estimated $100,000 yearly when they were implemented in 1989, according to Assistant City Manager Mike Killebrew. Staff said the fees are underutilized since the city has been built out.

WHAT’S NEXT: Downtown developers can now expect to pay $821 per linear foot on Pacific Coast Highway and $1,113 on Del Prado Avenue. The $292 difference per linear foot comes from Del Prado having more public facilities needs, said Brad Fowler, director of public works and engineering.

Olvera said he worried developers would be deterred. Staff held that with the city fronting funds for public improvements, it was reasonable to ask developers to contribute.—AP

County Revamps Harbor’s Island Way Bridge THE LATEST: Construction has begun to repair the Dana Point Harbor’s aging island bridge.

Crews will work until the end of May to replace existing pavement, resurface the bridge deck and improve ramps and Page 3

Former Youth Minister Charged with Sexual Assault in Colorado THE LATEST: Authorities in Fort Collins, Colo. arrested a former Dana Point youth minister last month following accusations he sexually assaulted an 8-year-old boy, officials confirmed.

Nicholas Grant Henshaw, 38, of Fort Collins, was charged with one count of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, Lamier County court records show. Colorado classifies the crime as a felony.

Henshaw was the subject of multiple investigations in Lamier County over the last 18-months, said Don Vagge, deputy chief of the Fort Collins Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division.

The most recent led to Henshaw’s arrest. Vagge also confirmed Orange Nicholas Henshaw.

County Sheriff’s Courtesy photo Department authorities had previously investigated Henshaw on similar accusations when he worked as pastor in Dana Point.

The accused’s former Dana Point roommate, Jeff Singleton, said Henshaw worked as a youth pastor at Capo Beach Calvary Church in 2001 and 2002 when they lived together.

The sheriff’s department and Orange County District Attorney’s Office investigated Henshaw in 2003, confirmed OCSD spokesman Lt. Jeff Hallock. Due to a lack of evidence, no charges were filed, Hallock confirmed.

WHAT’S NEXT: Henshaw is due in a Lamier County court April 4 for a deposition hearing.—AP and Andrea Swayne www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Pulling Together

infrastructure repairs to the area’s storm drains, sidewalks and playgrounds.

The documents provided did not account for the $9.2 million budgeted for Town Center Lantern District improvements, nor the additional estimated $7 to $8 million needed to complete the project.

But the issues and progresses highlighted by Capo Beach residents and business owners at the meetings go far beyond potholes and drains. They hit right at the heart of the community and are things—in the eyes of many—that can no longer be ignored.

Capistrano Beach businesses pull together to bring about short- and long-term change

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, DANA POINT TIMES

F

rom their Doheny Park Road storefront, Helen and Ziad Mahshi have a view of it all. They go to church and send their daughters to school down the street. They opened the doors of 2nd Hand Treasures three years ago and have quickly risen to the top of the local business scene.

But from their front door, they watch the street empty at night, they witness workers waiting for day jobs, they see the homeless trying to get by. Helen and Ziad are among area business owners and residents who want more for Capistrano Beach. They are among those striving to balance empathy with business, and those who believe—through small steps and an eye on the future—that this small but vibrant community that surfers and entrepreneurs put on the map can draw locals and visitors for years to come.

The Mahshis live, work and breathe Capo Beach. Their requests aren’t big.

They believe new lighting or a marquee sign announcing the business district could help drive traffic. They believe designating a place for day workers to gather, increasing police patrols and extending outreach can bring about big change.

“It seems like Capo Beach has been neglected for a long time, which is sad,” Helen Mahshi said. “I’d like to see lights on the trees, signs that read ‘Support Local Businesses’ the way downtown Dana Point has.” This is one of the most traveled streets in Dana Point so it’s crazy to think it’s been neglected.”

FINDING DIRECTION, GATHERING MOMENTUM A pair of meetings facilitated by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce last week brought together the Capistrano Beach business community, residents and city leaders.

In a round table-style discussion, city staffers Ursula Luna-Reynosa and Brad Fowler, the directors of community development and public works, heard concerns about public safety, sanitation and the need for area beautification.

Sparked by a recent letter to the Dana Point City Council, the meetings aimed to help Capo Beach open discussions and get the dialogue started. Twenty-one business owners and a representative from Capo Beach Christian School signed on, hoping to highlight the unique atmosphere and

Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

An aerial view of Capistrano Beach shows Doheny Park Road just north of Pacific Coast Highway.

Photo: ROMA Design Group/Tom Lamp Photography

“

Doheny Village is a vital part of the city of Dana Point. Famous names have evolved from this surfing village. Successful businesses have been built here.

People’s lives are at stake.

Please work with us to find solutions.

”

–Letter from Capo Beach business owners to the Dana Point City Council

corresponding challenges of their community.

The letter and meetings centered on safety, on day laborers, street landscaping and the local homeless population.

Concerns were raised about the complexity of the issues, where business owners are working to balance their personal and financial needs with feelings of frustration and compassion.

“The problems and issues mentioned … are big and they cannot be ignored,” the letter reads. “The local businesses and churches are struggling to solve these issues. We cannot do it alone. Doheny Village is a vital part of the city of Dana Point. Famous names have evolved from this surfing village. Successful businesses have been built here. People’s lives are at stake. Please work with us to find solutions.”

Crime and vandalism were noted, as was littering, loitering and defecating on public and private spaces—things that can

Capistrano Beach business owners are coming together in hopes the Dana Point City Council will address immediate concerns of the area.

Photo: Brian Park

leave the area looking “dirty and neglected.” The letter called on the city to take note, to hear the area’s collective voice and to eventually take action to put Capo Beach back on the map.

But aside from these hurdles, Doheny Park business owners like the Mahshis are hopeful small, timely changes can help bring Capo Beach into the city’s destination fold.

“Business owners just want the general public to feel good about walking around, shopping and spending their dollars in Capo Beach,” said Michael Fox, owner of FoxLin Architecture in Capistrano Beach.

After the meeting, Fowler provided figures from completed capital improvement projects since 2001.

Of them, Capistrano Beach—from Doheny to the Palisades—accounted for 36 percent of the city’s repair and construction expenditures, or $30.2 million.

The improvements have been predominantly focused on streets and other

Page 4

FINDING SHORT- AND LONG-TERM FIXES Ideas about a shelter for the homeless, a labeled spot where day laborers can gather and a Capo Beach-located sheriff’s department substation have been discussed. But at the core, and for the immediate future, business owners and residents want to be considered.

“The due process is going to take a long time,” Fox said. “They (business owners) really are hoping the City Council can look at some kind of interim solution to these problems, because the current solution might take a very long time.”

Doheny Park Road is a heavily-traveled street. Shops line the roadway, from the De Palma Clothing Inc. store to the Liquor Locker, where the road splits and becomes San Juan’s Camino Capistrano. There are big-box stores and restaurants alongside party, lumber, construction and plumbing suppliers. Homes, a fire station, bus yard, industrial complexes, a church and school surround the commercial corridor.

These are all factors being considered in the city’s Doheny Village revamp project, where the city’s Town Center project consultant, ROMA Design Group, is working on a plan to rezone areas to encourage downtown-style development and growth.

But that project, which got off the ground in 2011, is still in its planning phases.

“There are big plans for the area with Doheny Village, but that is 15 years out realistically,” Fox said. “A lot of the area’s business owners are just concerned about making it the next three years.”

The letter and meetings were among the first of many steps needed to bring about change. The co-signers and other business owners understand that, but for some time they’ve felt their work—to bring in new and maintain long-established businesses under rough-around-theedges conditions—have been overlooked.

Tuesday night, four business owners spoke before the Dana Point City Council in hopes of agendizing the discussion.

“The best information an elected official can get is from the people that live and work in the community,” said Councilman Scott Schoeffel. “Better decisions are driven by better information.”

For now, Capo Beach business owners are going to the drawing board where they hope they can put their ideas into action.

DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

The Shed Hosts Guitarist, Acoustic for a Change Founder Arturo Echarte Bringing art, music and charity together, The Coastal Arcadian welcomes area guitarist, musician and non-profiteer Arturo Echarte for a night of Spanish instrumentals, refreshments and artist meet-and-greets.

Echarte, the founder of Acoustic for a Change, a nonprofit that aims to put instruments in the hands of local children who cannot afford them, will play at The Shed Fine Art Gallery on Thursday, March 27, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Shed is one of three retail and art fronts that make up The Coastal Arcadian, located at 24471 Del Prado Ave. Gently used instruments will be accepted for donation. The event will feature appetizers and wine tastings. Also, a portion of the night’s sales will be donated to the Laguna Beach Friendship Shelter.

Find out more about the event by visiting, www.coastalarcadian.com.

Tomorrow” vocal competition this month.

Young vocalists from high schools across Orange County will compete in classical and musical theater categories on Sunday, March 30, beginning at 4 p.m.

Presented by the South Coast Singers, the vocal contest will be held at the Laguna Hills Community Center, at 25555 Alicia Parkway.

SOCSA is a performing and visual arts academy housed at Dana Hills High School. Students performing from SOCSA include: Shelby Barry, Siena Brown, John Carroll, Megan Forster, Spencer Martin, Kyla Stone, Aubrey Rhodes and Annalecia Whitwer.

Ten other contestants represent the Orange County School of the Arts, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School and Mission Viejo, San Clemente, JSerra Catholic and Tesoro high schools.

Tickets are available online at www.southcoastsingers.org. For more information, call 949.613.7840 or email info@southcoastsingers.org.

Be the Change Club Keeps 50,000 E-waste Pounds from Landfills

South Orange County School of the Arts students make up eight of 18 finalists competing in the 10th annual “Stars of

Through annual collection events, the Be the Change Club at Dana Hills High School has prevented more than 50,000 pounds of electronic waste from entering area landfills.

A partnership between the club and the Tustin-headquartered All Green Electronic Recycling has been so successful that

DP Sheriff’s Blotter

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Maria, 26700 Block (8:06 p.m.) According to the caller, a man parked his car for several hours and was spotted sleeping in his car days earlier. When the man was confronted, he told the caller he was “waiting for his girlfriend.”

‘Stars of Tomorrow’ Highlights Local Talent

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.

SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com

Sunday, March 16 DISTURBANCE Del Gado Road, 27500 Block (1:51 a.m.) A woman was reportedly screaming for help from a nearby apartment. The caller did not recognize the woman but noticed men inside the residence.

Thursday, March 13 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Del Prado Avenue, 24500 Block (10:46 p.m.)

Officials were alerted to customers using drugs in the bathroom.

San Clemente Times March 21-27, 2014

Community Meetings MONDAY, MARCH 24 Representatives from All Green Electronic Recycling present a check to the Dana Hills High School Be the Change club members for their efforts that kept 50,000 pounds of e-waste from local landfills.

Courtesy photo

the two have continued working together on multiple occasions. To congratulate members of Be the Change, the company presented students a large check for $860 on Thursday, March 13, bringing the club’s raised funds to more than $3,000 since 2011.

Be the Change is the student arm of the parent-run Dolphin Force Foundation.

The two aim to improve the Dana Hills campus and have increased security at the school by funding security cameras and are focused on adding new 39 computers this year.

A free e-waste recycling event is set for Saturday, March 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the Dana Hills High School parking lot, 33333 Golden Lantern.

Electronics such as televisions, computers, printers, microwaves, cell phones, game consoles and items that use plugs or batteries will be accepted at this drive-thru style recycling event. Find out more by visiting, www.dolphinforce.com. “loud music and bass” coming from the neighborhood.

DISTURBANCE Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (1:31 a.m.) A caller informed authorities of her neighbor knocking on the front door and “upsetting” her.

Wednesday, March 12

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (6:10 p.m.) A caller was concerned about an elderly man who was sleeping in a wheelchair on the sidewalk in front of Denny’s.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Dana Point Harbor Drive (3:51 p.m.) Authorities received notice of a “homeless encampment” behind Jack in the Box. A small tent and wood shack could be seen.

WELFARE CHECK Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (2:27 p.m.) A caller reported a suspicious sign reading, “Temporally Closed,” outside of a business because he thought the location “never closed.”

BURGLARY ALARM-AUDIBLE Centre Court, 0 Block (8:44 a.m.) A loud beeping noise was heard throughout the night.

DISTURBANCE- MUSIC OR PARTY Cheltam Way, 33300 Block (4:28 a.m.) A caller reported

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Puerto Plaza/Dana Point Harbor Drive (9:39 p.m.) A man was found sleeping in the women’s restroom. He refused to come out.

CITIZEN ASSIST Cordova Drive, 24700 Block (8:54 p.m.) Someone placed a lawn statue in the caller’s backyard.

DISTURBANCE Victoria Boulevard, 26000 Block (8:58 p.m.) A 5-foot-5, 30-year-old woman was seen stumbling and harassing teenagers. She was described as having short, brown hair and wearing a black sweatshirt.

ASSAULT Pacific Coast Highway/Crown Valley Parkway (6:22 p.m.) A caller reported being punched in the face by the driver of a tan Escalade. The man was wearing a red shirt, black pants and had a mustache.

Page 5

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 discussion.

TUESDAY, MARCH 25

OC Board of Supervisors Meeting

9:30 a.m. County leaders gather in the Board Hearing Room, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., 10 Civic Center Plaza in Santa Ana. Visit, www.ocgov.com/gov/bos/ to view the body’s upcoming agenda.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 26

CUSD Board of Trustees Meeting

7 p.m. The Board of Trustees meets at the Capistrano Unified School District Office Board Room, 33122 Valle Road. Log on to www.capousd.org for the agenda.

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN CLEMENTE A San Clemente author told the City Council Tuesday a number of local stores were listed on a website that touted locations of storefront brothels masquerading as massage parlors. Kim Yim, a member of San Clemente Abolitionists, a group dedicated to fighting exploitation, said many of the young women involved in these operations are victims of sex trafficking. Yim and members of the organization are working with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to help train deputies in dealing with the issue. Last week, Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchens announced the department’s investigations bureau was looking into massage establishments and taking further steps to prevent child exploitation and human trafficking.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan Capistrano city officials and residents want a new hotel downtown, but a proposal has drawn criticism over several elements, including parking, massing and its proximity to the historic Egan House.

Urban Village’s $43 million plan calls for a 136-room hotel to be built at 31878 Camino Capistrano. During a joint workshop, City Council members and Planning Commissioners, as well as a number of residents, expressed support for a hotel but also said parking could be inadequate. Others said the hotel obstructed the view of the Egan House and suggested the developer scale the project back. www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

to watch. All of this is about as funny as an elected official taking money from the company trying to break the established rules and laws.

Mr. Griffith, why not attend a meeting so you can see how the majority of residents feel before ridiculing in a statement?

FOLLOWING THE RULES, BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR WAYNE VIA, Dana Point

Regarding the plans for a new hotel on the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive, most of the people at the Planning Commission meetings are not against the construction of a hotel. The new hotel is just replacing the existing old hotel.

What they are upset about is that the developer of the new hotel has decided that he doesn’t have to follow the established rules regarding building height, needed parking spaces and easement restrictions.

It’s been my experience that if a new neighbor comes into the neighborhood and the very first thing he does is announce to you that he is not going to follow your rules and regulations, he is not going to be a good neighbor.

PROPERTY RIGHTS: RULES MUST STILL BE FOLLOWED STEVEN MOSS, Dana Point

Even it is doesn’t answer the questions or address the issues raised in Mr. Griffith’s letter (“Do We Need Another Hotel? Sure, Why Not?” DP Times, March 14-20, Vol. 7, Issue 10), I hope this stimulates residents to give this serious thought.

No one said they like the current look at the intersection of our Harbor, and the City Council should have addressed that on their own. The homeless also wander about neighborhoods, camp out on the hill behind the Best Western and elsewhere— it’s a serious problem yet to be addressed by the mayor.

As for fast food establishments, Mr. Griffith should attend some City Council or Planning Commission meetings where they praised how nice they look. Or just how many residents are against the new

IMPROVING APPEARANCES ONLY GOES SO FAR The Dana Point Planning Commission is expected to hear updated plans on the Doheny Hotel at its April 14 meeting. Originally, the hotel’s developer Beverly Hills Hospitality Group proposed building a two- to five-story building at Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive. Changes to the plan are not known at this time. Rendering by Dan Sasso, Courtesy image

BETTY HILL, Capistrano Beach

hotel or at the very least the proposed height and impact on the area.

I live in an HOA where while we have property rights, there are rules and laws that need to be followed, and a political contribution cannot sway votes or acts.

The betterment of the community takes precedence over what a property owner might want to do. Mr. Griffith might know, love, be a relative or neighbor of our mayor but a monetary contribution prior to controversial voting is questionable.

The issues remain the variance needed for the added height, traffic impact, possible tsunami zone problems, water-usage impact, loading zones on Pacific Coast Highway, parking problems for employees and guests, giving away park land for commercial use, and speaking of the homeless, the impact of all this forcing transients into neighboring communities.

Possibly Mr. Griffith would like the new hotel with all the requested stories to force the Best Western to close and then we could turn that property into a homeless shelter? Then with the PCH loading dock, that would back up traffic for blocks, the homeless could walk in between the lanes panhandling or washing windows for change? With luck we could attract some jugglers and fire eaters that would add entertainment while waiting in traffic.

Without a bike lane, when one is hit and the ambulance tries to get there we can charge for people to stand on the bridge

After attending the last Planning Commission meeting concerning the Doheny Hotel project, I learned that people are not opposed to a hotel at that location.

Everyone agrees that the appearance of the corner would be vastly improved and the right of the property owner to build a hotel there is not in question.

The problem is that the scope of the proposed hotel does not meet Dana Point requirements nor does it fit the spirit of the Dana Point Specific Plan, as adopted by the city and the residents of Dana Point.

Surely improving the appearance of a location should not be the only criteria for a project’s approval by the Planning Commission.

THANKFUL ‘UNCLE GENE’ BURRUS IS CELEBRATED JANET HOUSTON, Poughkeepsie, NY

The East Coast family of Gene Burrus would like to acknowledge our pride in our brother-in-law and uncle for the wonderful honor from the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce as Citizen of the Year.

We, in the family, are well aware of “Uncle Gene’s” talents and generosity of spirit, and it is gratifying when these things are recognized by the larger community. So often the mighty efforts of senior citizens are ignored or taken for granted, but this has never been the case in Orange County.

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.

EDITOR’S NOTE: By Andrea Swayne

Unveiling a Fresh New Look

T

he Dana Point Times has come a long way since its 2008 debut, but our mission has always remained— to deliver “Local News You Can Use” in an inviting and user-friendly format.

Our unique magapaper—with its hybrid reporting of news in a magazine-style layout—has continued to draw fans by keeping the community informed of the

Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

day’s issues and celebrating the people and events that make Dana Point an amazing place to call home.

As we embark on our sixth year, we are pleased to present a fresh new look for the paper that we hope will both preserve and extend our goal of informing and entertaining you, our valued readers.

A huge kudos goes out to our very tal-

ented art director Jasmine Smith for all of her work on this anniversary re-design.

The entire team also deserves many thanks for all they do to ensure the DP Times continues to be your best source of local news and information.

Thank you for reading. The entire Picket Fence Media team looks forward to serving you for many years to come. DP

Page 6

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Andrea Papagianis, 949.388.7700, x112 apapagianis@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@danapointtimes.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@danapointtimes.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Lisa Cosenza ( San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis

OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Finance Director > Mike Reed

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Catherine Manso, Madison May, Tawnee Prazak, Jenna Ross, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 12. 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.

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

At the Movies: ‘Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me’

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

Friday | 21

DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fresh flowers, seasonal produce and more are available at this weekly outdoor market at La Plaza Park, at 34111 La Plaza St. Call 949.573.5033 to find out about renting a booth.

18TH ANNUAL TASTE OF DANA 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. Help support a safe graduation celebration for the Class of 2014 with food from more than 20 restaurants, music and raffles at Dana Hills High School. Tickets $15. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.tasteofdana.com.

STUDENTS OF STAND-UP COMEDY GRADUATION SHOW 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Stand-up comedy graduation showcase at Camino Real Playhouse. Tickets $12. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT: ACOUSTIC EIDOLON 7 p.m.–9 p.m. Music by the world-renown guitar and cello duo as part of the ongoing concert series at the Dana Point Community House. Tickets $30. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

ANGELIKA WILSON 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Live soft rock during wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Get a flight of five wines for $20. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

JIMMIE JAMES 8 p.m. Live music and food at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

Saturday | 22 OC CHILL WINTER TRAIL RUN SERIES 7 a.m. Participate in a 5-, 7- or 10-mile trail run through O’Neill Park trails with a post event chili and campfire. Funds raised

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

FUNNIEST HOUSEWIVES OF ORANGE COUNTY 8 p.m. Live comedy show at The Coach House. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

Sunday | 23 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari offers 2.5-hour trips daily. Tickets $59 adults, $39 kids, under 2 free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

EDITOR’S PICK Dressed as swallows, first grade students from Mission Basilica School race up Camino Capistrano during the 55th Swallows Day Parade. Photo: Brian Park

SWALLOW’S DAY PARADE AND Mercado Street Faire • MarcH 22 8 a.m.–5 p.m. The Fiesta Association presents the 56th annual parade celebrating the legend of the swallow’s return to the Mission San Juan Capistrano. The nation’s largest, non-motorized parade begins at 11 a.m. with this year’s theme “New Trails West” followed by a street faire and festivities for the entire family. Rain or shine.

949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

At 89, character actress Elaine Stritch has two Emmys for the series “Law & Order” and “30 Rock,” a Tony for her one-woman show “Elaine Stritch: At Liberty” and numerous acting credits working alongside such luminaries as Stephen Sondheim, Noël Coward, Woody Allen, John Turturro, James Gandolfini and Rock Hudson. For someone who’s been working on stage and screen for almost 70 years, she is still so consisPhoto: Isotope Films tent and lively. This month, a documentary on Stritch’s life and career called Elaine Stritch: Shoot Me is in theaters. While certainly enjoyable for acting fanatics, it holds appeal for casual moviegoers as well. Director Chiemi Karasawa follows Stritch around town and her home as she prepares for her latest project, a solo cabaret act. Along the way, we see Stritch work with her personal pianist Bob Bowman, her personal assistant Julie Keyes and behind-the-scenes footage of her work with Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey on “30 Rock.” The more private moments show her interacting with friends and fans and include personal reminiscences of her career.

Script supervisor-turned-filmmaker Karasawa reminds us that, though not a household name, Stritch is definitely a legend in her own right, and has no interest in retiring from the stage. Shoot Me shows a feisty, vibrant entertainer who also has some hidden fears her audience may not have realized. Her story is a glowing example of lifetime show business success and aging gracefully, without regrets. — Megan Bianco

benefit Trails4All. Fee $38-$40. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, www.bookthatevent.com/trailrun.

RESCUED PET ADOPTIONS 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Rescue a healthy dog or puppy from the Ark of San Juan in the Albertsons plaza. 33611 Del Obispo St., Dana Point, 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org.

BACKYARD SKILLS WORKSHOP 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Join The Ecology Center in the orchard and learn fruit tree grafting and propagating skills. Tickets $20-$30.

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

Monday | 24 COOKING CLASS: CALIFRENCH CUISINE 6:30 p.m. Cooking class with Chef Caro-

line Cazaumayou at Antoine’s Café. Cost $50. Includes recipes, dinner and a glass of wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

MISSY AND HEINE ANDERSEN 7 p.m.–10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Tuesday | 25 DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., Noon, 2:30 p.m. Half-priced whale watching with Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. Tickets $22.50. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Thursday | 27 BRANDON WILDISH 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Music at Salt Creek Grille.

32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

IMPROVISATION CLASSES 7 p.m.–10 p.m. This six-week course begins tonight at Camino Real Playhouse with instructor Bob Doll. Registration is $660. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MARCH 29

KNITLIT: KNITTING BOOK GROUP 6 p.m. Discuss the book of the month and do your craft of choice at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Wednesday | 26 GOURMET FOOD TRUCKS 5 p.m.–8 p.m. An assortment of food trucks every Wednesday at San Clemente High School. Proceeds benefit the SCHS Marching Band. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.492.4165, www.sctritons.com.

WILDFLOWERS FROM A TO Z 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Biologist Tony Bomkamp gives facts and photos about wildflowers at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Free. Call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

Page 8

Dana Point Symphony conductor Dean Anderson directs the orchestra Saturday. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

DANA POINT SYMPHONY 7:30 p.m. The Christ Church Cathedral Choir joins the symphony orchestra from Oxford, England for a night of music at St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church.

Tickets are $20 for adults or $15 for seniors, students and military personnel.

33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, www.danapointsymphony.com.

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to events@ danapointtimes.com

www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Scout Dedicates Eagle Project to Marines San Juan Hills freshman raises flagpole to receive scouting’s highest honor

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, DANA POINT TIMES

S

an Juan Hills High School freshman JonErik Moyles joined the Boy Scouts of America in first grade.

While just a young Tiger Scout, Moyles knew what he wanted and set his sights on the organization’s highest honor.

On Monday, with the dedication of his months- and years-long project, 15-yearold Moyles joined just 2 percent of scouts in the Eagle Scout ranks. Old Glory was lifted high above Dana Point that morning to honor the men and women Moyles dedicated his project to.

With the help of his San Juan Capistrano Troop 12, Moyles raised funds by selling water bottles at eight Dana Point events to bring a new flagpole to the Nature Interpretive Center.

Monday, their hours of work were recognized as city leaders, scouts and

Michelle Alexander, { I N DANA P O I NT } the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley’s Youth of the Year, shared her story of overcoming adversity with the community Tuesday. The San Juan Hills High School senior was also recognized by the Dana Point City Council that night for her devotion to volunteering.

SCENE

Scouts and leaders from Troop 12 helped JonErik Moyles (third from right) complete his Eagle Scout project.

Here, Mayor Lisa Bartlett joins the troop at the flagpole’s dedication ceremony. Courtesy photo

members of the Camp Pendleton-based 5th Marine Regiment joined Moyles in dedicating the town’s newest addition.

“I feel really accomplished and am really proud of myself,” Moyles said.

Moyles dedicated the project to the nation’s Marines and Sailors after learning of the city’s and 5th Marine Regiment

Support Group’s work with local servicemen and women. The U.S. Marine Corps thanked Moyles by raising the pole’s first flag, one that has flown at forward operating bases in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

To see Moyles’ Eagle Scout project, visit the Nature Interpretive Center located at 34558 Scenic Drive. DP Photo: Andrea Papagianis

GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Chris Wright

Global Mysteries Take Readers on a Journey Explore the globe’s vast expanses from the comforts of your own home

I

f you like to travel around the world via your armchair, then police procedurals and mysteries are a perfect avenue for you to explore. Not only do they provide a great way to become familiar with another county’s culture and issues, but also, you don’t need a passport.

Here are some familiar and not too familiar series from around the globe that can be found at the Dana Point Library.

SCOTLAND: Ian Rankin’s Inspector Rebus series is gritty and noir-ish. Rankin retired Rebus but I guess the public demand for his return was too much. Now Rebus is back as a consultant to the police. You’ll be ready to

go to Edinburgh and have some curried fish and chips after reading a few of these.

M. C. Beaton is the author of the 29-title Constable Hamish Macbeth series that is set in the Scottish countryside.

READING WITH WRIGHT This series is a little

By Chris Wright more light-hearted and not as stark and heavy as Rebus.

SWEDEN: Henning Mankell is the superstar of Scandinavian Crime Fiction.

His Inspector Kurt Wallander series is set

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Last week’s solution:

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 Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

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

in Skane, Sweden which is actually closer to Copenhagen, Denmark than to Stockholm. Kurt Wallander is the quintessential policeman with the job being his life. He is divorced and is estranged from his sole child, a daughter. Mankell ended the series with Kurt but perhaps we’ll see more of the family with the daughter following in her dad’s footsteps.

Rising crime, immigration issues and loss of civil virtue are issues not unique to the United States and we see these issues play out in a Swedish environment.

Another Swedish writer with a female police officer as the lead protagonist is Kjell Eriksson. His Ann Lindell series can go up and down in terms of plot and excitement.

ICELAND: Arnaldur Indridason is the popular favorite of Iceland. His Inspector Erlendur series is a hidden gem. Erlendur is a rather depressing man. He is divorced and a loner but totally dedicated and unrelenting in his quest for the truth. His daughter is a drug addict. His colleagues are interesting and in several of the books take center stage and run with the case while Erlendur is on vacation.

Quentin Bates, a Brit, has a four-book series with female police officer, Officer Gunnhilder, who is quite a character and the type of person who is a natural born leader.

Both of the protagonists in these two series are real, down to earth people with flaws

Page 10

who are both idealistic but also pragmatic.

You might just want to visit Iceland now.

IRELAND: Ken Bruen with the Jack Taylor series and Declan Hughes with the Ed Loy series have hit home runs. Both series are dark, noir-ish and feature flawed heroes who sometimes do what is in their self- interest and not what’s right. Ed Loy returns to Dublin after living in Los Angeles for 20 years and hooks up with all his childhood friends—both criminals and cops. Jack Taylor is on the west coast in Galway and doing whatever it takes to survive.

AUSTRALIA: The Inspector Hal Challis series by Gary Disher, who also writes children’s books, is another great read. Read one and you will be hooked and going the distance for all six of them. It’s not every policeman’s wife who tries to kill him and then attempts reconciliation from prison.

Next month we’ll continue with some charming, eccentric and captivating detectives in South America, Asia and Africa.

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 SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Cameron McCartin and Capistrano Valley Christian’s Jacob Fricks.

In all, the Coyotes scored 27 goals in the playoffs. They defeated Villa Park and Corona Norco in the first and second rounds, respectively. The Coyotes outscored their opponents by a combined 27-8 margin.

Their offensive prowess and stingy defense remained consistent throughout the season, an aspect Gardner thought was possible from the get-go. For guiding the team to the title in their first year, Gardner was named the SportsNetUSA Coach of the Year.

A Fitting Ending Capo Coyotes ice hockey team wins championship in signature style

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t was the picture-perfect ending to a script that began last September by Darren Gardner, head coach of the Capistrano Coyotes ice hockey team.

Gardner had brought together 27 high school hockey players from across the Capistrano Unified School District to play in their inaugural season of the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League. He laid out his plan and told them if they bought into the team and trusted each other, they could be hoisting a championship trophy at season’s end.

Led by a collection of stars and a strong supporting cast, Gardner and the Coyotes finished the script on Friday, March 7, with a convincing 9-3 win over Damien in the league’s Varsity 2A Division Championship.

“If you were to write a script about the perfect hockey season, it would be very close to what we experienced,” Gardner said via email. “Ultimately, reaching the point where the players capture the team

“If you were to write a “script about the perfect The Capistrano Coyotes ice hockey team celebrates on the ice at the Honda Center after winning the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League’s Varsity 2A Division Championship. Photo: Leslie Bird

and take ownership as a group, regardless of games won or lost, the result is a positive environment that generates wonderful memories. To me, that is what youth sports is all about. Winning the championship just makes it that much more special.”

The Coyotes directed their way through the season with a potent offense, especially in the final game.

Paul Boutoussov, a senior from Dana Hills High School, scored the team’s final four goals to help seal the victory.

Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, news and more, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Dolphins Baseball Has Strong Tournament Showing Last season, the Dana Hills baseball team lost a lot of close, one- and two-run games. This year, at least in the early going, it seems the Dolphins are on pace to reverse that trend.

The Dolphins are coming off a 4-1 overall effort in the Loara Tournament, where they placed seventh.

Dana Hills (5-2) won three one-run games in the tournament and lost their only game by one run against Lakewood on March 8.

In the Dolphins tournament-opening 7-6 victory over Canyon on March 6, junior outfielder Luke Williams hit a grand-slam home run. After losing to Lakewood, Dana Hills beat Pacifica, 5-4, Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

Dana Hills senior first baseman Danielle Ingraham and the softball team are off to a 6-2 start to the season. Photo: Steve Breazeale

and Santa Margartia, 2-1. In their final game the Dolphins breezed past Cypress, 6-1.

Senior pitcher Louis Raymond has been effective in 20 innings pitched. Raymond holds a 3-0 record in four appearances to go along with a sparkling 1.05 ERA. The Dolphins will open Sea View League play on the road against reigning champion Aliso Niguel on March 21.

Dolphins Softball on the Winning Path Under first-year head coach Brandon Cosenza, the Dana Hills softball team is off to a 6-2 start. The Dolphins schedule has been full of tournament play and the team is coming off a narrow 10-9 win over

Boutoussov put on an offensive display throughout the playoffs, scoring six goals and tallying five assists in three games, earning the SportsNetUSA Championship MVP Award. With the Coyotes leading Damien 4-1 heading into the second period, Boutoussov went on a scoring run, notching all of his goals in a 12-minute span.

Aliso Niguel’s Connor Reed, the league’s leading scorer, helped his team pull away in the first period by scoring two goals on assists from Aliso Niguel’s Gahr in their final game of the Northwood Tournament on March 15, which was their fourth victory in a row.

The Dolphins have been getting production from throughout their lineup and boast a .325 team batting average in eight games played. Junior Madison Killebrew has been on a tear at the plate and has recorded at least one hit in all but two games. In the Dolphins win over Gahr, Killebrew went 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs. The Dolphins were set to play a double header against Aliso Niguel on March 20.

Results were not available at press time.

Girls Track and Field Relay Team Post State-Best Time in Rivalry Meet Competing in the inaugural South County Classic on March 14, the Dana Hills girls track and field 4x400 relay team posted a state-best time of 3:55.99, beating second-place Mater Dei by half a second.

The event pitted South Coast League schools against Trinity League schools for bragging rights in south Orange County.

The South Coast League won the event in both the boys and girls divisions. The boys team won 297-199 and the girls won 328-167. DP

Page 12

hockey season, it would be very close to what we experienced.

—Darren Gardner,

”

The Coyotes will now wait to see how the league will restructure its two divisions over the offseason.

The team will lose six impact seniors but plan to bring back a number of players. With the rise in popularity of the league, and the Coyotes in particular, Gardner hopes to have enough players next season to form a junior varsity team, which would be another first for a team that has had a season full of them. DP

Scoreboard Basketball The Capo-Dana NJB seventh-grade All-Star team is heading to the San Diego Invitational Regional NJB All-Star Tournament in San Diego this weekend. The team earned a berth in the tournament by winning the Southern California Sectional NJB All-Star Tournament on March 16. The Capo-Dana squad beat the Newport-Mesa and Aliso Niguel All-Stars, which earned them the No. 1 overall seed in this weekend’s tournament.

The Capo-Dana NJB seventh-grade All-Star team includes: Andrew Calo, Garrett Powell, John Kheriaty, Nick Falshaw, Christian Britton, Hayden Garcia, Logan Philip, Tim Van Hoomissen, Cole Futak, Ike Williams. The team is coached by Joe Philip and Mark Williams.

We want to run your scores, results and announcements in “Scoreboard.” E-mail sports@ danapointtimes.com or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m. www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE Saturday March 22, 7am-11:30am. Kids Clothing Only. Boys and girls sizes newborn to preteen. Tons of clothing, every piece is only $1 You don’t want to miss this sale if you have children of any age! 2712 Via Montezuma 92672 (Near the DMV)

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

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733

SURF STUFF MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $65. 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 Nona Associates949.496.2275 Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com

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

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

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

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

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

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING Organics Out Back www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICAL

PSYCHIATRY

LOCKSMITH 949.354.2258

Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6916

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

delta G electrical 949.360.9282 Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 GRAPHIC DESIGN 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com IMAGES/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 PET GROOMING 117 Del Gado Road, www.imgs.com Dawgy Style 949.496.3315 ICE CREAM 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, www.alphadoggroomshop.com Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 INSURANCE SERVICES www.atozleakdetection.com Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, pat.powers@cox.net www.chicks-plumbing.com State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 POOL SERVICE & REPAIR 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204 www.tedbowersox.com Palisades Pool Service & Repair 949.542.7232 Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 Capistrano Beach, allenesommo@cox.net 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net

LANDSCAPING

PSYCHOTHERAPY

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

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

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL Dream Team Properties 949.481.1788 Mike Rosenberg, Broker Capistrano Beach, www.FindMyOCHome.com

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

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION Offshore Construction www.offshoreconstruction.org

949.444.6323

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

Call Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

GROM OF THE WEEK Noa Dupouy Age: 9, Mimizan, France Noa Dupouy has become a familiar face in local lineups and Western Surfing Association contests while visiting the area from his home in the southwest of France. With a father who owns a surf school and surf shop, it seemed only natural for Noa to declare his desire to become a pro surfer and get serious about chasing that dream. Since starting down that path two years ago, San Clemente has become a favorite home away from home. He entered his first WSA contest in December at the San Clemente Pier and took first place in U10 Shortboard. “I loved the announcing and meeting new friends,” Noa said. “It was so fun because the other kids were supporting me and the waves were rippable.” Fond memories and the instant camaraderie of fellow competitors prompted Noa to return for the Huntington Beach Pier WSA event

Bianca Valenti of Dana Point became the Big Wave World Tour’s first women’s event winner, March 12 at Nelscott Reef in Oregon. Photo: Nikki Brooks

Big Wave Maven

Dana Point’s Bianca Valenti wins first Big Wave World Tour women’s event

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

A

“maven” is defined as an expert, connoisseur or someone in-theknow. When it comes to conquering giant ocean waves, Dana Point-raised surfer Bianca Valenti has become just that.

The world of professional big wave surfing had its largest gathering of female competitors ever this month and the Xpreshon Big Wave World Tour crowned Valenti its first female champion.

When invitations went out and the Nov. 1 through March 31 waiting period for the Dive N’ Surf Oregon Pro at Nelscott Reef was announced, Valenti marked it on her calendar and got to work.

“Training is an ongoing thing for me, but writing it in my calendar was a reminder to stay focused,” Valenti said. “I wanted to be ready for whenever the event was called on.”

She began rigorous training in the gym, yoga, swimming and breath-holding exercises to prepare for hold-downs.

In an athletic competition that gets the green light only when conditions bring waves in the 30-foot-plus range, being hold-down-ready is an absolute must.

The notoriously treacherous break, off the central coast of Oregon, met the 30foot minimum and the event was a go on March 12.

Despite having suffered a knee injury while surfing in December and Nelscott being only her second time in the water since being cleared by her doctor, Valenti was ready.

Before being invited to the event, her Dana Point Times March 21-27, 2014

career had included surfing at the elite level in both longboard and shortboard contests as well as years of experience riding big waves just for the challenge.

Her big wave dreams began during college after getting pounded at Ocean Beach in San Francisco.

“That day the waves were in the 15- to 20-foot range, big and perfect. I was so bummed I got demolished,” Valenti said.

“It really motivated me to reach a new level of comfort where I could ride waves of that size because they looked so fun.”

She participated in a three-woman expression session at a Big Wave World Tour event in 2010 but this was her first pro big wave contest. This first ever BWWT women’s roster hosted eight of the world’s

Bianca Valenti of Dana Point is all smiles after her winning ride at Nelscott Reef March 12.

Photo: Richard Hallman

best and most well-known female big wave pros, including Hawaiians Keala Kennelly and Paige Alms.

Each surfer’s top two waves—on a scale of 1 to 10 with the highest wave score being doubled—were combined to determine the final score. Risk equals reward according to the BWWT rulebook, as the system ensures a surfer with an exceptional ride—taking off in the most critical part of the wave and exhibiting control—will beat a surfer with two “safe” rides in the 4- to 6-point range.

Valenti’s first score came in at 8.50, doubling to 17.0.

“It was an awesome drop, super fast and steep,” she said. “As I paddled back out, the water safety crew was giving me the thumbs up. It was a great feeling but I knew I needed a back-up wave.”

With just five minutes left in the heat, Valenti locked onto a wave barely missed by runner-up Andrea Moller of Brazil.

Valenti’s second score came in at 6.83 for a grand total of 23.83 to Moller’s 19.37.

While Valenti said she was thrilled by her victory, satisfaction also came from being part of the advancement of women’s professional big wave surfing.

“It was a huge success for all of us.

They gave us a chance not knowing what to expect. So to have so many of us show up charging, I think broke ground,” Valenti said. “Down the road, I’m hoping this leads to a full women’s world tour.

Page 14

Noa Dupouy. Courtesy photo

last month where he claimed his second U10 victory. “When Noa asked me and his mother to help him, we decided the sacrifices we would have to make are worth it,” his father Rudy said. “Whether learning a new language or a sport, the best age to start is now and this does both.” Rudy went on to say that leaving home for the winter in search of better waves is doable because, for now, keeping up with Noa’s school work is easily manageable via computer and the experiences he’s having are priceless.

“The people are good, the waves are good, the Ralphs Skate Court is good,” Noa said. “I like it here and I will keep coming back.”—Andrea Swayne

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 61-63 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: Local: 8-12’ poor-fair Catalina: 10-15’+ poor-fair Immediate: New steep-angled northwest swell joined in on Thursday as an old west/northwest swell dropped out. Small scale surf in the kneethigh high (1-2’+) zone prevails at better exposures, as top breaks see plus sets. Surf picks up some for Friday as more new northwest swell creeps in and a new south/southwest swell shows. Light/variable to light SE/ESE winds in the mornings, turn to light+ westerly winds each afternoon.

Longer Range Outlook: Modest pulses of south/ southwest swell prevail through the weekend, as trace northwest swell blends in the background.

Better round of south/southwest swell due early next week as a small new west/northwest swell shows. Check out Surfline.com for all the details!

Whether that happens or not, I will keep competing, pushing for sponsorship, chasing swells and elevating my game by surfing bigger and better waves.”

Valenti grew up in Dana Point, graduated from St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in 2003 and UCSB in 2007. She now lives in Mill Valley and is co-owner of Valenti and Company, a new Italian restaurant in San Anselmo, set to open at the end of the month. DP www.danapointtimes.com