LO C A L
August 29-September 4, 2014
N EWS
YO U
C A N
Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo Thrills
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VOLUME 7, ISSUE 35
Supervisor Hopefuls Speak Out Meet the candidates for 5th District Orange County Board of Supervisors E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5
Orange County Fifth District Board of Supervisors candidates Lisa Bartlett and Robert Ming attended a community forum on Friday, Aug. 22 at Dana Point Harbor. Photo: Andrea Swayne
Two-way Traffic on PCH Set to Begin in Early September EYE ON DP/PAGE 3
DP Woman Facing Murder Charges in 2013 Hit and Run EYE ON DP/PAGE 3
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Local Surfers Shine at NSSA Explorer Season Kickoff DP SURF/PAGE 18
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formally charged at an arraignment Thursday with second degree murder, felony hit and run and driving under the influence. Second degree murder charges carry a potential penalty of 15 years to life in prison.
Five things Dana Point should know this week
FIND OUT MORE: To read the criminal complaint, visit www.danapointtimes.com. — Jim Shilander
Dana Point Woman Arrested in 2013 Hit and Run Case THE LATEST: A 46-year-old Dana Point woman was arrested Tuesday more than a year after she allegedly struck and killed a grandmother in a hit-and-run accident on July 4, 2013. Kelly Michele Wolfe. Kelly Michele Photo: Courtesy OCSD Wolfe was being held on $1 million bail as of press time and was scheduled to be in court Thursday. A 76-year old woman, Marthann Demchuk of Monrovia, was killed in a hit-andrun incident just south of the intersection of Camino Capistrano and Pacific Coast Highway, near the Shorecliffs Beach Club in San Clemente. According to the Sheriff’s Department, Demchuk was walking with her 13-yearold grandson northbound along Pacific Coast Highway, in the bicycle lane. The two were struck by a van driven by Wolfe, who allegedly continued driving. A witness followed her to her home, where she was detained by deputies a few minutes after the incident occurred. Wolfe was investigated for both driving under the influence and for hit-and-run at the time but no formal charges were filed until this week. Demchuk was pronounced dead at the scene. The boy was treated at the scene for minor injuries. According to the criminal complaint, Wolfe’s blood alcohol content was greater than .15 percent at the time of the incident. The legal limit is .08. Farrah Emami, a spokeswoman for the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, said the length of time between the incident and Wolfe’s arrest was due in part to having to decide what charges to file. The Sheriff’s Department initially brought the case to the DA’s office in November as a potential manslaughter case, but the DA requested additional information, and after a review of the incident, decided to file the case as a homicide. “It did take a long time,” Emami said. “In these types of cases, it can take time to determine what charge to make.” WHAT’S NEXT: Wolfe is expected be Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
district. In 2013, the City Council approved spending $9.2 million to replace sidewalks, add bus pullouts and medians and return two-way traffic to PCH. Construction for the project commenced in October, following the South Coast Water District’s sewer and water infrastructure replacements on the stretch of road. The conversion of PCH to accommodate two-way travel, one of the first milestones of the project, is tentatively set to begin between Sept. 8 and Sept. 19, city officials said in a statement.
Search for Missing Salt Creek Beach Swimmer Terminated THE LATEST: The search for a 60-year-old male who went missing while swimming in the ocean off of Dana Point on Saturday has been terminated, officials said. According to a news release by Lt. Jeff Hallock of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and Orange County Lifeguard Chief Jason Young, the missing man was last seen body surfing in the water near lifeguard tower No. 2 at Salt Creek Beach and was reported missing at 11:33 a.m. A 30-hour multi-agency search, by dive teams from the Orange County Lifeguards and the Sheriff’s Department and Harbor Patrol and U.S. Coast Guard vessels, was unsuccessful in finding the man. Active search efforts were called off as of 6 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25, the statement said. A high surf advisory for the area had been issued by the National Weather Service. Surfline.com was reporting waves in the 4- to 6-foot range and building, with occasionally larger sets. WHAT’S NEXT: The Sheriff’s Department and Coast Guard will continue surface observations from ground and air over the next several days, authorities said. Officials have not released the name of the missing man and are only saying he is from out of state.—Andrea Swayne
Two-way Traffic on PCH to Begin in Early September THE LATEST: As Town Center-Lantern District street improvements move forward, periods of heavy construction along the stretch of Pacific Coast Highway running through downtown Dana Point will continue. Two-way travel on PCH is expected to start in early September. The Streetscape Improvement Project— effecting PCH between Crystal Lantern and Blue Lantern, and Del Prado Avenue between Blue Lantern and Ruby Lantern—is one of the first steps in the city’s plan to make the Town Center-Lantern District, a pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use
WHAT’S NEXT: Two-way traffic along Del Prado is another project milestone, but will be many months down the road, as construction along that roadway is still out to bid. At the June 17 City Council meeting, councilmembers unanimously approved sending a call out for bids for Del Prado street improvement construction. Also at that meeting, although not included in the budget update, the council approved the transfer of $7.7 million in city reserves to fund the Del Prado portion of the project in a 3-2 vote. FIND OUT MORE: For questions regarding the project, contact Matthew Sinacori, city engineer, at 949.248.3574 or msinacori@ danapoint.org. More information can be found on the city website, at www. danapoint.org. To subscribe to receive email updates, send an email to ssharke@danapoint.org. —AS
Lights above Pendleton Likely from Live-fire Exercises THE LATEST: Residents in the San Clemente and Dana Point area have reported seeing bright lights in the night sky above Camp Pendleton since last weekend. The lights could be the result of live-fire training exercises, according to Sgt. Christopher Duncan with the Camp Pendleton public affairs office. The glowing lights could be seen above the Marine Corps base from as far as north San Diego County, according to reports. One San Clemente resident said they observed a red light in the sky, just north of the Pier, around 10 p.m. Friday. Another reported seeing two pairs of lights above the hills south of the city and east of Interstate 5 on Monday night, shortly after 9 p.m. From Dana Point, lights were spotted from atop the bluff overlooking the Harbor. WHAT’S NEXT: Marine Corps officials announced last week that they would be conducting exercises, including around-
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the-clock firing, from Saturday until early Wednesday, Aug. 27. They warned that neighboring cities may hear increased noise caused by howitzer and mortar firing. FIND OUT MORE: For noise inquires, residents are asked to call the Range Operations Division Office at 760.725.0357, between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. —Brian Park
CUSD Trustee Objects to Adoption of Best-selling Book THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees approved several new instructional materials for the upcoming school year Wednesday night but one trustee objected to the use of a best-selling book expounding the inner-workings of the fast food industry. Trustee Anna Bryson criticized the adoption of the 2001 book Fast Food Nation: The Dark Side of the All-American Meal by journalist Eric Schlosser. The book provides a critical overview of the development of the American fast food industry, inspired a film in 2006 and was later adapted for younger readers. But Bryson, citing published criticisms about the book, said it presented a biased opinion and used disputed facts. After the meeting, she took to her personal Facebook page to further explain her dissenting vote. “The book is unscientific. It is anticapitalism and explicitly pro-socialism,” Bryson wrote. Fast Food Nation is approved for use by the College Board, the company that develops and administers the Advanced Placement exams. District staff said the book would be used to encourage students to research the topic themselves and spark productive classroom debates. New Superintendent Kirsten Vital said the very debate the school board was engaging in Wednesday was what teachers would be expecting out of the book. WHAT’S NEXT: Bryson requested that in the future, books under consideration be presented to the board with their full titles. Fast Food Nation was listed on the agenda without its subtitle, but district staff said the omission was not intended to deceive. The board also approved texts for culinary arts courses, middle school language arts, special education, world languages, English development and seventh- and eighth-grade Spanish two-way immersion courses.—BP
Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about? Send your suggestions to editorial@danapointtimes.com. www.danapointtimes.com
EYE ON DP
Supervisor Hopefuls Speak Out Meet candidates for 5th District Orange County Board of Supervisors BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES
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ith Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Pat Bates terming out and making an unopposed run for the State Senate’s 36th District seat, Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett and Laguna Niguel Councilman Robert Ming are in the running to replace her. Both Bartlett and Ming are terming out of their city council seats, having each served two consecutive, four-year terms in their respective cities. The county supervisor race is a top-two election format where, originally, four were in the running for the Fifth District seat. Ming and Bartlett won their spots on the November ballot by beating Mission Viejo Councilman Frank Ury and county Deputy District Attorney Joe Williams in the June 13 primary. The Fifth District includes the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. Each of the county’s five districts elects one board member to a four-year term. In the days leading up to the Nov. 4 election, more on this race will be included in the Dana Point Times ongoing election coverage. Following are highlights and excerpts from the candidates’ appearance at the Aug. 22 community forum in Dana Point
hosted by the Dana Point Civic Association, followed by their unedited official candidate statements. Questions for the forum were submitted by the public in advance and the meeting was moderated by Jim Miller, Civic Association president. Miller posed 12 questions to the candidates. Ming’s and Bartlett’s answers to those questions and others will be featured in upcoming election coverage. FORUM INTRODUCTIONS Robert Ming spoke of his campaign as a great experience, getting to know all of the communities in the Fifth District by spending time with the public. He referred to the Dana Point Harbor as the “jewel of the county” and Dana Point as a wonderful part of it. The Harbor Revitalization Project, he said, is “a great opportunity in front of you” along with all the other progress that’s been made in Dana Point and said he’s looking forward to seeing how all of these projects can get done. On the type of leader he would be, Ming made the following comments: “I’ve always believed the way we should lead is to listen to local residents. That’s why I’ve been focused on making sure that local control is fought for and listened to, so as you are involved in this process—as you have for many years, 10, 20 maybe even 30 years for some of you—It’s important to keep in perspective the competing interests. “It’s not only the boaters, because the boaters are very important, it’s not only the public, because the public is very important. It’s also the county in general because we all benefit from this great asset and I would love to see it continue to be taken care of, advanced and see
progress made here. “Three things my campaign is focused on are integrity, fiscal responsibility and leadership. Integrity means say what you mean and mean what you say, and do what you say you’re going to do. That’s what I believe every elected official should do. “Fiscal responsibility—we run balanced budgets and in Laguna Niguel we have no debt. “Leadership is finding solutions to problems and bringing people together so that we can move forward. And that’s what I intend to do.” Lisa Bartlett said one of her main reasons for running for City Council was a desire to see some of the projects in Dana Point move forward. She pointed to her land use background as a real estate broker being helpful in her first four years on the council with getting master plans approved by the city, county and California Coastal Commission for the Town Center Lantern District and Harbor projects. Her second four years, she said, were spent working on the Doheny Village revitalization plan, for which a master plan is expected to be completed in the spring of 2015. Bartlett said she is excited to see the Doheny Village plan move forward, as it will effectively tie the city’s three major land use areas together. “That’s part of the legacy I would leave behind … to have some of these projects we’ve waited for, for so long, actually moving forward and to have been a part of that process,” Bartlett said. “As county supervisor I want to continue with that and make sure these projects continue to move forward.” On the type of leader she would be, Bartlett added the following:
“I’ve always had an open door policy … I’m one of the very few elected officials who puts their cell phone number on their card … It’s great to hear from residents, community leaders and business leaders … In Dana Point we really listen to the community when projects come forth and at the county level I would continue to do the same. “I’ve got a great track record for fiscal responsibility. Our city is well run, we have no debt, a balanced budget every year, cash reserves and in 2009 paid off our unfunded pension liability … I would carry that forth to the County of Orange.” A QUESTION FROM THE FORUM What are some of your top priority issues facing the County of Orange? Give at least three. Bartlett said transportation and mobility issues are of major concern, as gridlock negatively affects quality of life. Public safety is also of high priority, she said, adding that, “With the early release of prisoners coming into our communities, it is important to keep cities safe by crafting good policy decision on the Board of Supervisors.” She also mentioned the importance of working toward a goal of finding ways to make county government work more effectively and collectively together for better delivery of services and more cost effective operation. Ming highlighted the need to fix the current compensation structure for pensions, pointing out that, “If the county can’t operate on a budget, we are going to have a problem.” Efficiency is also on his priorities list, an issue, he says, holds plenty of room for improvement. Making a “huge push forward” for county projects such as revitalizing the Harbor and transportation projects, such as completing the La Pata extension, also top his list. DP
CANDIDATE STATEMENTS LISA BARTLETT Mayor/Orange County Businesswoman As a Mayor, Businesswoman, past Chairwoman of the Foothill Eastern SR-241 Toll Road and 25-year resident of Dana Point, I have decades of experience to provide residents with strong, effective leadership on issues that impact our quality of life. I hold a Masters Degree in Business Administration and have extensive handson experience in executive management and operating my own business. As Mayor, I have consistently delivered lean, balanced budgets that include prudent cash reserves, minimal unfunded pension liability, no debt, and promote economic growth for our local economy to counter the failed policies of Sacramento and Washington. Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
Public safety is government’s number one job. That is why I worked with the Sheriff and other Mayors in creating the Contract Cities Group to reduce crime and increase law enforcement resources for our region. As a regional transportation leader, I have the leadership and experience needed to provide solutions for improved mobility and traffic relief. My years of private and public sector experience have prepared me to serve as your Supervisor and oversee America’s fifth largest county. I am honored to have the endorsement of Congressman Darrell Issa and many of our respected local leaders. I respectfully ask for your vote. www.LisaforSupervisor.com
ROBERT MING Orange County Businessman/Councilmember Integrity. Fiscal Responsibility. Leadership. These are my guiding principles and what our elected officials should deliver. As Laguna Niguel mayor and councilmember, I’ve been committed to these principles. Integrity is about being honorable and keeping promises. In Laguna Niguel, I promised to repave streets, maintain low crime rates, improve parks, and protect our environment. That’s what I did. As Supervisor, I’ll do the same, while bringing transparency and accountability to government. Fiscal responsibility means making principled decisions while living within our means. I consistently voted to reduce regulations, not raise fees, or incur debt. We built our city hall on time, under budget, and paid cash, while keeping healthy
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reserves. Leadership requires listening, creative problem solving, and, building consensus. That’s been my track record on regional boards and nonprofits. My 20 years of business experience will help government work smarter. My endorsements include Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, Supervisors Nelson and Moorlach, Congressman Rohrabacher, Senator Mimi Walters, Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, California Republican Assembly and leaders from every South County city. Married to Susie for 22 years with four children, I care deeply about their future. I’ll preserve our quality of life, for my children and yours. I respectfully ask for your vote. www.robertming.com www.danapointtimes.com
EYE ON DP
DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY ALLISON APLIN
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.
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Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com
Sunday, August 24 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Violet Lantern Street, 34000 Block (12:58 a.m.) A naked woman was seen getting in and out of her black sedan near a Montessori School.
Saturday, August 23 DISTURBANCE Monarch Beach Resort, 0 Block (10:45 p.m.) A man asked the caller to phone police because his wife hit him in the face. ROBBERY IN PROGRESS Via California, 26300 Block (4:35 a.m.) A woman called to report her 36-year-old daughter was jumped and her purse was stolen. INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Pacific Coast Highway/Copper Lantern Street (12:43 a.m.) A man was seen passed out behind the wheel of a black Volkswagen. A 43-year-old man who said his occupation is an “analyst” was arrested and taken to the Intake Release Center. He was later released after posting bond.
Friday, August 22 KEEP THE PEACE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (2:23 p.m.) A woman told police that a man “went to her hiding place” and took her radio and a bottle of tequila. The man refused to let her check his bag. After finding out his bag was empty she said she then believed the man had “stashed her stuff.” SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Domingo Avenue, 25900 Block (1:48 p.m.) A man who smelled of marijuana was lounging on the grass at Capistrano Beach Christian School.
Thursday, August 21 CITIZEN ASSIST Kitts Street, 0 Block (6:48 p.m.) A woman requested a deputy to walk around her residence in daylight because she suspects people are climbing up the trees at night and watching her through her bedroom window. Page 6
WELFARE CHECK Camino El Molino, 34100 Block (11:07 a.m.) A caller phoned police after a new neighbor, who has a baby, came outside looking very confused and asked to borrow a wine opener. The woman had a fat lip and when the caller asked about it, she hesitated before claiming that she fell.
Wednesday, August 20 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Dana Strand Road, 34300 Block (10:41 p.m.) A caller reported loud rap music coming from a vehicle and skateboarders in the Strand Vista Park parking lot. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Crown Valley Parkway, 32700 Block (10:09 p.m.) A man wearing glasses, a hat and a blue shirt was out in traffic lanes acting as if trying to be hit by passing cars. The caller said the subject was last seen in a church parking lot. A 20-year-old, unemployed man was arrested and taken to the Intake Release Center. He was cited and released. DISTURBANCE Del Rey, 35500 Block (4 p.m.) A man was yelling and screaming outside of a drug and alcohol rehab facility. TERRORIST THREATS REPORT Sea Bright Drive, 33100 Block (10:58 a.m.) A woman received a phone call from someone who told her she is going to die. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Priscilla Drive, 24600 Block (1:59 a.m.) Five males carrying big bags were seen walking down the street and pulling on car door handles. DRUNK DRIVING Camino Mira Costa/Camino De Estrella (12:21 a.m.) A man in a white pickup truck kept driving back and forth on Mira Costa between Mira Costa Park and Estrella. The vehicle was swerving all over the road, nearly hitting parked vehicles.
Tuesday, August 19 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Golden Lantern Street/Camino Del Avion (9:33 p.m.) A bald man with dark skin and tattoos was seen putting something in his sock in the Ralphs parking lot. He was with two other men who were in dark clothing. The caller said the men appeared to be casing the parking lot and were looking suspiciously over their shoulders. The caller added that the vehicle the men were in, “a black, painted over police car,” matched the description of a subject who had reportedly been posing as a police officer and pulling people over in San Clemente. DISTURBANCE El Encanto Avenue, 33700 Block (10:08 a.m.) A woman reported her neighbors were smoking marijuana in their apartment and it has been an ongoing problem. www.danapointtimes.com
EYE ON DP
NEWS BITES Community Meetings Historical Society Seeks COMPILED BY ANDREA SWAYNE
Community Support
The Dana Point Historical Society has announced registration for the new term of the Ralphs Community Contributions Program will open on Monday, Sept. 1. The program allows Ralphs customers to designate a local organization, such as the Historical Society, to receive contributions when using a Ralphs rewards card at the grocery store. Every time a member shops for groceries and swipes their card, their organization of choice automatically starts earning a rebate. Organizations can earn up to 4 percent of eligible purchases over $500. Those who are already members earning rebates for the Historical Society, as well as those interested in becoming members, will need to register or re-register for the new term. Log on to www.ralphs.com and click on “community” then “community rewards” for more information, to create a new account or to re-register.
Laughs for Leathernecks Tickets on Sale Now The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group is at the halfway mark for reaching their goal of filling the seats for their upcoming comedy dinner fundraiser. Laughs for Leathernecks, set for Monday, Sept. 15 at the Irvine Improv, 31 Fortune Drive Ste. 216 in the Irvine Spectrum, will include an evening of comedy with dinner, door prizes and a silent auction to benefit the 5th Marines. The comic lineup includes Rita Rudner, James P. Connolly, Fritz Coleman, Laura Hayden and Tom Riehl. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and the Support Group is asking that attendees consider making a donation via their secure PayPal link to sponsor tickets for a Marine and their spouse to attend. Proceeds from this event will be used to provide support and outreach to Marines and their families left behind during their upcoming deployment to the Middle East. The Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group Board is comprised of citizens who reside in the Dana Point and are willing to devote their time and talent to achieve goals that will benefit active duty 5th Marine Regiment personnel and their families. Tickets can be purchased online at www.danapoint5thmarines.com. Have something interesting for the community? We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com. Page 8
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Labor Day City offices closed. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
City Council Meeting Canceled. THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
Government Affairs Forum 5:30 p.m.-
6:30 p.m. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce hosts a public forum titled, “The Pipeline of Dana Point Development” at the Dana Point Community House. The featured speaker will be Ursula Luna-Reynosa, community development director for the city of Dana Point. Free. 24642 San Juan Ave., 949.496.1555, www.danapointchamber.com.
News Next Door
WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Authorities are on the lookout for a man who robbed a San Juan Capistrano bank on Wednesday, Aug. 20. The robbery was reported around 1 p.m. at Chase Bank, located at 31972 Camino Capistrano. A man walked into the bank and handed a note to a teller, claiming he had a gun, according to Lt. Jeff Hallock with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. He then left on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash. The robber was described as a white man, around 25 years old, 5-foot-10 and 165 pounds. He was wearing a white baseball cap, a black hooded sweatshirt and sunglasses. The Orange County bank robbery apprehension task force is investigating the matter. Hallock said Thursday the man does not appear to be a known bank robber.
SAN CLEMENTE Six candidates are vying for three spots on the San Clemente City Council. Two incumbents, Mayor Tim Brown and Councilwoman Lori Donchak are among the final list of seven qualified candidates on the ballot, as are Planning Commissioner Kathleen Ward, former mayor Jim Dahl, Mikii Rathmann, Fred Olsen and Ricardo “Rick” Nicol. Incumbent Councilman Jim Evert is not seeking reelection. Two people who pulled papers did not returned their forms—Robert Drust and Jeremy Schwartz. Olsen sent an email to the SC Times on Aug. 20 indicating he was withdrawing from the race. However, Clerk Joanne Baade said it was too late for Olsen’s name and statement to be removed from the ballot. www.danapointtimes.com
DP SOAPBOX Dana Point
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Chris Wright
Bring on the Chuckles, Belly Laughs Stop by an OC Public Library and pick up a book that will make you laugh
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hether it’s a quiet chuckle or a laugh-out-loud cacophony of sheer delight, these three books will leave you wanting to share them with others. Sadly, not enough have heard about these gems. Be warned about reading in public as you will you break into bouts of riotous laughter and be subject to stares. Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ’s Childhood Pal by Christopher Moore. Christopher Moore writes humorously about vampires and does spin-offs of the classics to include Shakespeare as well as this “missing gospel.” Lamb is absolutely hilarious without being irreverent. Now we hear the truth about those missing years. With a friend named Biff how can it not be funny? WWJD without Biff. Rowdy in Paris by Tom Sandlin. Rowdy is an American cowboy who has never won anything in the way of the rodeo circuit except maybe broken bones and hangovers. However, his luck changes one day in Colorado and he wins the event and the coveted belt buckle proclaiming him
Letters to the Editor CAMPING ON VICTORIA STREET A GROWING PROBLEM CAROLE WELING, Capistrano Beach
City Manager Doug Chotkevys, Over the past month, I have watched the “encampment” of individuals (on Victoria Street) increase from two to about 12—setting up tents and barbecues and having a great time. Why does this issue persist without resolution? As you are fully aware there is an elementary school—very, very nearby— and as far as I am aware, camping on city property is not allowed. Please advise. When one reads the police blotter for the week, there is always something needing their attention on Doheny Park Road, just one block away. Why is it a problem to take a diversion just one block over and keep this area safe for the community? I personally think that that the city should get what it is paying for—police protection and safety for the community. As you are fully aware, camping on the streets over in the Monarch Beach Part Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
champion. No sooner does he win it than it’s stolen during a one night stand with a sexy French tourist just passing through the American West. Rowdy is not going to go quietly into the night about this. READING WITH WRIGHT He’s worked too hard and By Chris Wright too long to acquire this emblem of success. He tracks the woman and immediately departs for France to find his belt buckle. What ensues on the streets of Paris is absolutely hilarious. It’s LOL emeritus stuff as Rowdy gets drawn into a culture war involving fast food, spies and revolutionaries. Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod by Gary Paulsen. If you have ever wanted a Siberian Husky as a pet you should read this book before purchasing one. If you have owned or own a Siberian Husky than you must read this book. It will confirm everything you have discovered about this breed of dog.
of town would not be tolerated for one second. It seems like when anything is brought to the attention of the currently assigned Orange County Sheriff, it comes as a surprise. Let’s do better for the entire community of Dana Point.
PROPOSED HOTEL THREATENS THE GOOD LIFE STEVE MOSS, Dana Point
As I sit and read the latest issue of the City of Dana Point Community News, I noticed the following: “Harboring the Good Life” in the title. The community statement: The most beautiful, desirable and safest coastal community. The mission statement: Develop and ensure the highest possible quality of life for our residents and provide a safe and healthy environment, and last but not least, to provide an effective government which is open and responsive to the needs of the community. After so many meetings, with the majority of residents speaking out against the hotel project, and then the Planning Commission rejecting the plan, we all took a breath of relief. A breath of relief against building higher than city code, against tsunami
My mischievous dog is a model citizen next to Gary’s dogs. Oh, and it’s absolutely hilarious at times. Paulsen writes children’s books of the outdoors. This is a biography and adventure account for adults of his training and running the Iditarod in Alaska, no mean feat for a team of dogs and human. The actual race though arduous really takes a back seat to the story of the preparation and training for the race. Besides hilarious antics of man learning about dogs and becoming a dog there is some serious thoughtful zen/introspection into the relationship between man and animal. Plus it’s a great adventure yarn. 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
disaster, against water issues and impact on the area, against higher traffic congestion in an already problematic intersection, against using city property for their own profit, etc. Where is the “good life” if we are all negatively impacted? Where is the beauty with an albatross at the intersection with increased congestion? Where is the safety with the increased potential of auto, truck, motorcycle, bicycle and pedestrian accidents? Where is the highest quality, safest and healthiest environment? Lastly, where is the mission statement to provide an effective government which is open and responsive to the needs of the community? It’s time for the City Council to stop playing political games, to put any possible personal motives aside and respond to the needs and desires of their constituents and either tell the hotel to come up with a new plan and limit their building to three stories or go elsewhere! 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.
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City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor, > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING PICKET FENCE MEDIA Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)
OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Allison Aplin, Megan Bianco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent
Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 35. 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: ‘Frank’ is Worth Meeting
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
UPCOMING EVENT
What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF
Friday | 29 TOTALLY TROPICAL 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Cruise on into Club Literacy for an evening filled with ocean adventures and tropical tales. Limbo for a cupcake, show off your hula hoop skills, feast on a pupu platter and enjoy ship-to-shore story time. $20. RSVP. Event also runs 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday. Club Literacy, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway Suite 105, Dana Point, 949.717.6624, www.clubliteracy.com. MIKE HAMILTON 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Enjoy live music at Salt Creek Grille with guitarist, vocalist and instrumentalist Mike Hamilton. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.mikehamiltonmusic.com.
Saturday | 30 DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Seasonal produce, flowers and more at La Plaza Park each Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org. MUSIC UNDER THE STARS CONCERT 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. The Fab Four tribute band performs as part of the Mission’s summer concert series. Enjoy live music, dancing and a picnic in the Mission’s central courtyard. Proceeds benefit Mission preservation efforts. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. For tickets, visit www.missionsjc.com.
Sunday | 31 BLUE WHALE DISCOVERY CRUISE 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Join marine biologists from the Ocean Institute on a search for the world’s largest mammal, the blue whale. Travel to the feeding grounds of the great blues aboard the high-tech RV Sea Explorer. $35 for adults, $22 for children ages 4 to 12. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. INTERNATIONAL JEWELRY AND WATCH SALE 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Labor Day jewelry sale at St. Regis Monarch Beach Hotel. Choose from a large collection of men’s and women’s brand-names in gold and platinum, along with a selection of diamond and tanzanite jewelry. 1 Monarch Beach Road, Dana Point, 858.224.5906, www.ijewelrygroup.com. Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
Michael Fassbender in Frank. Photo: Magnolia Pictures
A Toshiba Tall Ships Festival 2013. Photo: Andrea Swayne
SEPT. 6-7: TOSHIBA TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL The sights, smells and sounds of authentic working tall ships is set to return to the Dana Point Harbor as the Ocean Institute hosts the 30th annual Toshiba Tall Ships Festival. The event kicks off Friday, Sept. 5 with a sunset parade of the nine participating vessels in the waters just off of the Harbor. The festival continues through the weekend with live music, food, arts, crafts and demonstrations of seafaring days past by pirate reenactors. Admission to the Institute and ship deck tours is $5 for members and $8 for nonmembers, ages 3 and up. Tickets to sail aboard a tall ship during a mock cannon battle are $40-$65 and available for ages 4 and up. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.
Monday | 01 I HEART YOGA IN THE PARK 10 a.m. Join fellow yogis at Lantern Bay Park for an hour-long class every day, rain or shine. Evening classes held Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 p.m. Classes also held at 8:30 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Historic Town Center Park in San Juan Capistrano. Donations suggested. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.iheartyogainthepark.com. CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary. Call for more information. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.
RUBEN GONZALEZ 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.
Wednesday | 03 MONARCH BEACH SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 7 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Join members of the club for breakfast and a meeting each Wednesday at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.monarchbeachrotary.com. CAPO BEACH FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Visit the weekly market where locally-grown, organic produce and regional artisans are featured. Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org.
Tuesday | 02
Thursday | 04
HALF-PRICED WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.
GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Volunteers meet every Thursday in front of the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano to help maintain the garden and more. Bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes. 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.
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decade after the breakthrough of artsy, indie films aimed at teens and 20-somethings, the genre now seems to have a hard time being labeled “hipster” or “twee” without irony. But occasionally, with the right story, director and cast, a gem of originality and charm can be found. The latest indie treasure to avoid this trap comes from filmmaker Lenny Abrahamson’s Frank. Aspiring musician at home, office clerk by day, Jon (Domhnall Gleeson) quickly becomes in over his head when he is assigned as the keyboardist of local avant garde band Soronprfb. The band is fronted by an eccentric vocalist and songwriter named Frank (Michael Fassbender) who constantly wears a fake, wooden head. The rest of the band includes the aggressive and tempestuous Clara (Maggie Gyllenhaal) who plays the theremin, French guitarist Baraque (François Civil) and a drummer named Nana (Carla Azar). Frank’s whole persona and look is clearly inspired by the late musician/ comedian Chris Sievey’s alter ego, Frank Sidebottom, while the band’s sound and tone seems to come more from Sonic Youth and Captain Beefheart. Gleeson now succeeds for a second time since last year’s About Time as a charismatic and adequate lead actor. Fassbender, one of the most critically acclaimed actors of the past five years, produces one of his most bizarrely memorable characters on his resume so far. Abrahamson manages to make this odd little journey funny and charming, even for non-indie fans. And to top it off, Frank’s soundtrack is noteworthy and catchy in itself. —Megan Bianco
TARYN DONATH 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.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
GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
Breaking up by Text Message: A Classless Act Personal courtesy still matters
H
as dating after 50 become this calloused? Pattie emailed, “I’ve been single for six years. With most of the men I’ve met, they would just not call after one or two dates. Some were honest and direct and would tell me in person or by phone that they weren’t feeling a connection. If I wasn’t feeling a connection, I would be honest and tell them directly or in a phone call. “In May, I met a man I liked, felt a connection, and he said the same. After our dates, he would text, asking when we could meet again. He’d text to confirm arrangements. In two months, we talked on the phone two or three times. I found this curious but suspended judgment to get to know him better and to let things evolve. “After our last date, he texted me the next morning to say he didn’t think we had enough in common. I was disappointed because I found him interesting and fun to be with but was more disappointed that he broke up in a text. “Is texting how we communicate with one another now? I know it’s easier than a phone call, but it doesn’t feel right. Am I too old fashioned?” The invention of cell phones has been a mixed blessing. On the one hand, they have streamlined our lives, making us more efficient and able to have instant communications, updates and information. Texting plays a big role in that. On the other hand, cell phones are a curse. Texting is a large part of that curse. We all know how dangerous texting can be in a car. We all have experienced rude people in public places yacking away on their cell phones so loudly everybody nearby can hear. And people can be so
pre-occupied when using their cell phones that they walk into you on the sidewalk or in the aisle of the supermarket, oblivious that they are being so rude. Is Pattie old fashioned? I don’t think so. It’s nice ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 that there are people like By Tom Blake Pattie who feel that personal courtesy still matters when something as important as a breakup occurs. Pattie’s former friend took the spineless way out. Why not a brief and courteous phone call instead of a text? It was just “type a few words, hit send and poof, relationship over.” Move on. Emily Post, the author of Etiquette, which is in its 18th edition, would have been horrified by modern-day cell phone etiquette. I asked Greta, my life partner of 16 years, for her opinion about Pattie’s situation. She said, “They only dated a couple of months. He was a texting sort of guy. While getting that text was disappointing to her, she should not have been surprised that he broke up that way. She will be better off. It was OK how he did it.” I disagree. I’m going to send Greta a text right now and tell her so. For more dating advice and stories visit, www.findingloveafter60.com. To comment, email (don’t text) Tom at tompblake@ gmail.com. 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
The tide was low at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor on Wednes{ IN DANA POINT } day afternoon but the ocean side of the jetty was being hammered by high surf courtesy of Hurricane Marie. The large waves occasionally breached the jetty wall, showering the swimmers, paddlers and their four-legged friends on the inside.
SCENE
Photo: Andrea Swayne
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
See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY
DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet
CLASSIFIEDS
Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE HARLEY HANDLE BARS Chrome, 8-inch, T Bars (drag specialties). Slight curve back. $70. Can send pictures. Text or call 949-633-3860 for more info.
GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE 33191 Elisa Drive, Dana Point Saturday August 30th 7:30 am to 12noon- Household items, clothes, toys , misc. items. GARAGE SALE SEPTEMBER 13TH Saturday morning 9AM. The sale will happen at: 33431 Nottingham Way, Dana Point ALL FURNITURE & FURNISHINGS IN TALEGA RESIDENCE MUST BE SOLD IMMEDIATELY! 220 Via Sedona, San Clemente 92673. Fri/Sat/Sun, Aug. 29, 30 & 31. Cash Only. 949-429-8665.
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.
HELP WANTED SENIORS HELPING SENIORS Help seniors stay independent and earn some extra money. We are hiring active, caring seniors to be care providers. Call 800-481-2488 or www.homecarebyseniors.com
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@danapointtimes.com
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
Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
Page 15
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DP LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS
DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com
ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING
Nona AssociatesRaymond J. Nona A.I.A
26901 Camino de Estrella, 949.496.2275, www.raynona.com
AUTO REPAIR
Dana Point Auto
34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086
CAFE - DELI
Coffee Importers Espresso Bar
34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com
COFFEE SHOP
Coffee Importers Espresso Bar
34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com
DANCE/FITNESS
Club Salsa Dance Studio
34202 Camino Capistrano Capistrano Beach, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN
IMAGES/Creative Solutions
117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com
ICE CREAM
Coffee Importers Scoop Deck
34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!
PLUMBING
Chick’s Plumbing
949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com
POOL SERVICE & REPAIR
Palisades Pool Service & Repair
949.542.7232, allenesommo@cox.net
PSYCHOTHERAPY INSURANCE SERVICES
Patricia Powers
24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, pat.powers@cox.net
State Farm/Ted Bowersox
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204, 949.661.3200, www.tedbowersox.com
Statefarm/Elaine LaVine
34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net
LANDSCAPING
Organics Out Back
449 Avenida Crespi, 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com
LOCKSMITH
Dana Point Lock & Security
949.496.6916, www.danapointlock.com
Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online.
Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT
Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com
REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL
MUSIC INSTRUCTION
Danman’s Music School
24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com
Kenny’s Music & Guitars
24731 La Plaza, 949.661.3984, www.kennysmusicstore.com
PET GROOMING
Dawgy Style
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, 949.496.3315, www.alphadoggroomshop.com
33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, 949.488.2648, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com
Dream Team Properties, Mike Rosenberg, Broker 949.481.1788, www.FindMyOCHome.com
UPHOLSTERY
Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors
34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, 949.240.9569 www.jeddys.com
Locals Only Buisness Listings
LIST LOCALS ONLY
USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.danapointtimes.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@ thecapistranodispatch.com
DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Rec League Roundup: Playoff Edition COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE
T
he city of Dana Point recreation sports leagues postseason championships began on Monday, Aug. 25. The recreation department offers adult kickball and softball leagues during the summer. Here is a breakdown of how each league panned out. Monday Mixed Level Co-Ed Kickball Swift Kick in the Grass received the No. 1 overall seed in this league and lived up to the billing. The team, after earning a first-round bye, defeated The McCoys 7-2 in the second round before defeating The Hatfields 6-1 in the championship match.
Senior middle linebacker Brett Bill and the Dana Hills High School football team will open their season with a home game against Tustin on Friday, Aug. 29. Photo: Tony Tribolet/www.xpsphoto.com
Dolphin Report BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES
The summer is rapidly approaching its end, which means there are fall sports on the horizon. Our weekly Dolphin Report will preview, re-cap and bring out details of the Dana Hills High School fall sports program’s games, players, coaches and everything in between throughout the season. For in-game updates, news and more follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.
Dolphins Football Set to Host Tillers in Season Opener Some high school football programs in Orange County like to open their season with a game against a lower-division opponent in order to get used to game speed and shake off any rust. That isn’t the case for Dana Hills. The Dolphins have put together a strong preseason schedule for the 2014 season, and it starts with an opening matchup with Tustin at home on Friday, Aug. 29. Last year was a down year for the Tillers, who are three years removed from a CIF-SS Southwest Division Championship. In 2012, they fell one game short of appearing in the division finals for a second Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
consecutive year. In a drastic turn, Tustin went 1-9 last season. The Tillers will be a team looking to rebound in a big way when they come to Dolphins Stadium on Friday and they will bring a championship pedigree along with them. Here are several things to keep an eye on during Friday night’s contest: • The Dana Hills offense will be led by senior quarterback Cole Wilber, who will be making his first start as a Dolphin. Wilber transferred from Mission Viejo midseason of last year and has spent the offseason synching up with the Dolphins offense, particularly the receiving corps. Friday’s game will be a first look at how Wilber and the Dolphins receivers, led by returner Drew Falk and Ray Moslehi, will operate together. • Due to a limited number of returning players with varsity minutes, Dana Hills will have several athletes playing both sides of the ball. Look for players like senior Brian Scott, who will start at both running back and safety, to make an impact. • The Dolphins defensive formations are always interesting to watch. Last year, they continuously switched from a 4-3 to a 3-4 defensive front based on who they were playing. The defense is deep at the linebacker position, which allows them to move certain players around the field. The positioning of rising junior Corey Selenski, who played linebacker and defensive line last year, will be a key indicator of what the Dolphins are trying to do up front on defense.
Kick Tease finished first in the Dana Point Recreation Monday Beginner Kickball league and finished runnerup in the postseason tournament. Courtesy photo
Monday Beginner Co-Ed Kickball Pitch, Please scored an impressive 19 runs in two games during the postseason tournament en route to the championship. Pitch, Please defeated Kickin’ the Ballz 12-7 in the first round and defeated No. 1 seed Kick Tease 7-6 in a close championship contest. Wednesday Mixed Level Co-Ed Kickball In the Wednesday six-team league, the No. 5 overall seed, Luxe Restaurant, ran the table during the postseason tournament to claim the championship. Luxe Restaurant defeated Blue Ball Crushers, Ron Swanson’s P&R and Grass Kickers, respectively, during the tournament. Grass Kickers entered the tournament as the No. 1 overall seed and defeated Just Can’t Kick Enough in the semifinals. In the championship game, Luxe Restaurant shutout Grass Kickers 1-0. Monday Co-Ed Softball Feel the Heat entered the six-team bracket as the No. 1 seed and was tested throughout. The eventual champion only played two games, having earned a first-round bye, and won both by a combined two-run margin. In the second round, Feel the Heat beat Dirty Ball Tossers 5-4. In the finals, they defeated No Limits 13-12, sealing the win. DP
Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo: How the West was Won BY BRIAN PARK, DANA POINT TIMES
S
outh Orange County got its annual taste of Western competition during the 2014 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo in San Juan Capistrano last weekend. The grandstands at Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park were packed with rodeo fans Saturday and Sunday to watch some of the top cowboys on the professional rodeo circuit compete in six different events. Trevor Knowles secured his No. 1 overall spot in the steer-wrestling rankings with a 3.3-second ride. He won $5,295, according to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. Tilden Hooper won the bareback riding competition, riding atop Comanchero, with 85 points. Aaron Tsingine and Cole Davison won in team roping with a time of 4.2 seconds. Other winners included Cort Scheer in saddle-bronc riding with 87 points; Clint Cooper in tie-down roping with a time of 7.6 seconds and bull rider Wesley Silcox with 83 points.
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A rodeo cowboy attempts to reel in a steer during the team roping competition. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57 Media
The Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo is an important stop in the professional circuit. For many, it is one of the last opportunities to secure a spot in the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in December. The rodeo is considered the richest two-day rodeo in the country. This year, more than $215,000 was given out to the top finishers. DP www.danapointtimes.com
DP DP SURF Dana Point
DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
Local NSSA Explorers Excel National Scholastic Surfing Association Explorer season kicks off in Pacific Beach, area competitors shine BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES
T
he National Scholastic Surfing Association kicked off its 2014-2015 Southwest Explorer season with a doubleheader, Aug. 23 and 24 at Crystal Pier in Pacific Beach and tri-city area surfers made a big opening statement. A powerful south swell, courtesy of Hurricane Lowell, delivered overhead surf and strong currents that challenged surfers. “The competitors had to step up to the plate, and they did,” said Janice Aragon, NSSA’s executive director. “The surfing was at a high level and everyone was killing it. I was really proud of the Super Groms who were charging in the bombing and challenging conditions.” Among the highest scoring local standouts were Kade Matson, Samantha Sibley and Cole Houshmand, all of San Clemente. Matson was honored as NSSA Surfer
RESULTS NSSA Explorer, Event No. 1, August 23, Crystal Pier, Pacific Beach First place and local finishers only. KEY: San Clemente=SC, Dana Point=DP, San Juan Capistrano=SJC. JUNIORS: 1. Brock Crouch, Carlsbad; 2. Cole Houshmand, SC; 3. Curran Dand, SC. BOYS: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas; 2. Cole Houshmand, SC; 3. Kade Matson, SC. MENEHUNE: 1. Kade Matson, SC. SUPER GROMS: 1. Brayden Burch, SC; 2. Dane Matson, SC; 6. Ryder Salberg, SC. WOMEN: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 3. Cameron Duby, SJC; 4. Allie Frost, SJC; 5. Samantha Sibley, SC. GIRLS: 1. Bethany Zelasko, DP; 2. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 3. Samantha Sibley, SC; 6. Cameron Duby, SJC. MEN: 1. Jeremy Dugan, SC. MASTERS: 1. Paul Munson, San Diego. SENIORS: 1.Trevor Nielson, San Diego. SUPER SENIORS: 1. Stephen Back, Oceanside. DUKE: 1. Kyle Twitchell, SC. WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Izzy Hopkins, DP. NSSA Explorer, Event No. 2, August 24, Crystal Pier, Pacific Beach JUNIORS: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas; 2. Cole Houshmand, SC; 3. Liam Gloyd, SC. BOYS: 1. Kade Matson, SC; 3. Cole Houshmand, SC. MENEHUNE: 1. Kade Matson, SC. SUPER GROMS: 1. Dane Matson, SC; 2. Brayden Burch, SC. WOMEN: 1. Samantha Sibley, SC; 2. Allie Frost, SJC; 3. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 5. Cameron Duby, SJC. GIRLS: 1. Samantha Sibley, SC; 2. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 3. Bethany Zelasko, DP; 5. Cameron Duby, SJC. MEN: 1. Trevor Spera, San Diego; 3. Jeremy Dugan, SC. MASTERS: 1. Paul Munson, San Diego; 2. Jeremy Dugan, SC. SENIORS: 1. Trevor Nielsen, San Diego. SUPER SENIORS: 1. Rick Fignetti, Huntington Beach. DUKE: 1. Kyle Twitchell, SC. WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Izzy Hopkins, DP. For full results, visit www.danapointtimes.com.
Dana Point Times August 29-September 4, 2014
GROM OF THE WEEK
AZURE REEF TRUJILLO
Kade Matson of San Clemente kicked off the new NSSA Southwest Explorer season doubleheader on Aug. 23-24 with three wins, two in Menehune and one in Boys. Photo: Kurt Steinmetz
of the Week for his outstanding performance, taking three wins, two in the Menehune division of both events No. 1 and 2, as well as an event No. 2 victory in Boys. Sibley brought home double wins in event No. 2, in Girls and Women and was also an event No. 1 double finalist. Houshmand was a four-time finalist, making podium appearances both days in Juniors and Boys. Dana Point’s Izzy Hopkins and Kyle Twitchell of San Clemente also took double wins in Women’s Longboard and Duke divisions, respectively. Other local surfers taking top honors were San Clementeans, Jeremy Dugan (Men), Malia Osterkamp (Women), Dane Matson (Super Groms), Brayden Burch (Super Groms) and Bethany Zelasko (Girls) of Dana Point. The next NSSA Southwest Explorer event is another doubleheader set for Sept. 6 and 7 in Huntington Beach. DP
SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 67-69 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 6-8’ Poor Friday: Solid SE/SSE swell from Hurricane Marie begins dropping through Friday, as modest Southern Hemi swells continue. Better breaks through the region will be in the head high+ to several feet overhead range (6-8’), with sets running well overhead+ (9’+) for standout summer magnets. Select standouts of north OC still go double overhead+. Shape improves for the beachbreaks, though a strong south to north drift and dangerous rip currents persist. Best shape overall for summer reefs/points. Smaller but still good-size waves prevail. Calm to light/variable wind in the early to mid morning, before a moderate Westerly sea-breeze develops. Longer Range Outlook: Easing SSE/S Marie swell and modest SW/S swells will prevail through the weekend. Decent exposures are still up to shoulder/head high and a little larger at times Saturday. Size is down a little further Sunday. Winds and conditions look most favorable in the mornings. Check out Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook!
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Azure Reef Trujillo, 8, is busy trying to pack in as much surfing as possible before starting third grade at Concordia Elementary School. We caught up with him by phone while he was on a road trip, shortboarding all the great surf spots from San Clemente to Big Sur. Azure started surfing at age 5 under the tutelage of family friends and now goes at least five times a week, most often at T Street. Azure likes everything about surfing, especially getting barreled. “My first barrel was when I was 7,” he said. “I was at T Street. I made it out and was thinking, ‘Did that really happen?’ My friend told me it did and I was like, ‘Yay!’” Azure is pleased that his name was inspired by the ocean. “My mom and dad were in Puerto Rico when my mom was pregnant with me. They were swimming in the ocean and my grandma said she loved the azure color of the water and they were like, ‘Bing, bing, bing! That’s it.’ They were snorkeling at reef and that’s how I got my middle name.” Azure has competed in a few local contests and is
Azure Reef Trujillo. Photo: Courtesy
looking forward to the upcoming Stoke-oRama. “I need more work on my cutbacks before I start WSA or NSSA,” he said. Surfers Azure looks up to include Hagan Johnson, Kelly Slater, the Gudauskas brothers and Derek Rabelo. Azure’s goals include becoming a pro surfer, pro skater, a lifeguard and taking many really great surf trips. One of his dreams, to surf in Hawaii, is set to come true at spring break. “It’s going to be fun. The water will be warm and I’ll get a lot of good experience,” he said. “One of my other goals was to be Grom of the Week. Now I am and it feels good.”—Andrea Swayne