October 24, 2014

LO C A L

N EWS

October 24-30, 2014 YO U

C A N

U S E

New Holiday Lighting Coming to Harbor PAGE 23 VOLUME 7, ISSUE 43

INSIDE: SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

San Juan Capistrano Considers Building a Skatepark EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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Majestic Project Approved by City Council EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Grom of the Week: Izzy Hopkins of Dana Point DP SURF/PAGE 30

POLLING HAS BEGUN: VOTE FOR THE BEST OF DANA POINT AT DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

on the hospital’s plans to close the local ER in late 2015 and to raze the current structure to make way for an urgent-care facility by 2017. The body will also look at alternative solutions before the hospital board votes on closure plans early next year.

Five things Dana Point should know this week

WHAT’S NEXT: The committee will not have decision-making authority but will provide hospital input and keep the council informed.

Councilwoman Lori Donchak suggested having a member of the hospital’s 12-member board on the panel so they may receive “unfiltered” community input on the proposal.

Meetings will be facilitated by the South Orange County Regional Chamber of Commerce and will be held at the San Clemente Community Center. The schedule has yet to be announced.

Saddleback is hosting its own openhouse event from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 30, at San Clemente Presbyterian Church, located at 119 Avenida De La Estrella.

During the public comments portion of the Dana Point City Council’s Oct. 21 meeting, resident Ryan Divel urged the council to get involved as the hospital serves Dana Point and Capistrano Beach.

–Jim Shilander/AS

City Council Approves Majestic Project THE LATEST: The Dana Point City Council voted Tuesday to approve the mixed-use project proposed by Majestic Housing and Development for the city’s Town Center/ Lantern District area, overturning a previous Planning Commission decision.

In a 3-1 vote, Mayor Pro Tem Steven Weinberg and Councilmen Carlos Olvera and Bill Brough gave the plan the nod with a couple of added conditions—a requirement that the plan’s covenants, conditions and restrictions include a ban on vacation rentals and that the applicant must pay the city in lieu parking fees before applying for a certificate of occupancy. The latter was added in order that the city would have the ability to “endeavor to” identify and fund additional necessary parking spaces ahead of the influx of added need.

Mayor Lisa Bartlett voted “no” based on lingering concerns over parking, she said.

Councilman Scott Schoeffel was not present. Mayor Bartlett noted that his absence was excused due to being away serving in an official capacity in New York.

Majestic had filed an appeal to the City Council following the Planning Commission’s 2-2 vote—with Commissioner Liz Claus recused—on Oct. 6, which constituted a denial.

In its final iteration, the plan calls for 109 residential units and 32,500 square feet of retail space on seven lots, to be built in three phases.

The plan includes two variance requests. One, that the applicant be allowed to pay for 26 in lieu parking spaces amounting to $390,000 and a second that will allow portions of the plan, not fronting Pacific Coast Highway or Del Prado Avenue, to include four-story residential structures, which fall within the 40-foot maximum allowed in the Town Center Specific Plan. The TCSP, as written, allows a 40-foot maximum and three stories.

Other special considerations, to be granted via site development and conditional use permits, will allow elevator towers and guard rails for roof decks to extend 42 inches above the 40-foot height maximum and a shared arrangement between retail and guest parking spaces.

WHAT’S NEXT: The applicant will begin preparing construction plans to submit to Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

A skatepark initiative was discussed at the Oct. 20 meeting of the San Juan Capistrano Parks and Recreation Commission. The park shown here is Ralphs Skate Court in San Clemente. Photo: Sheri Crummer

the city for approval and apply for grading and building permits.—Andrea Swayne

San Juan Capistrano Considers Building a Skatepark THE LATEST: On Monday Oct. 20 local teens and community members attended the San Juan Capistrano Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission meeting to voice support for the building of a skatepark in San Juan Capistrano. The commission voted unanimously to support the proposal.

The commission voted to form a “working group” for the issue, made up of members of Great Opportunities—a San Juanbased group that helps underprivileged children—members of their city’s Youth Advisory Board, interested members of the community and two members of the commission’s own members, Jenny Friess and Gerald Muir. The working group was tasked with sharing the desire, need and support for the building of a skatepark.

Possible locations in San Juan have yet to be identified.

A movement to build a skatepark in Dana Point was launched in March when members of a newly-formed community group, Skatepark of Dana Point, brought the idea to City Council. In July, council directed staff to prepare a feasibility report including possible locations within the city. In September, after a public hearing on the issue—citing a lack of available/appropriate space on city property—council directed staff to explore possible non-cityowned sites and reach out to the alternate jurisdictions. The suggested locations included San Juan Capistrano, Doheny State Park, the Capistrano Unified School District bus barn area and the South Coast Water District’s 30 acres.

WHAT’S NEXT: The working group will

begin gathering ideas for possible locations and securing financial support for the skatepark.

The discussion is set to resume at a November meeting of the San Juan Capistrano Parks, Recreation and Senior Services Commission.—Jacqueline DeMarco

Study Session Set for Proposed Development at PCH and Ruby Lantern THE LATEST: The Dana Point Planning Commission will be holding a study session on Monday, Oct. 27, for a mixed-use project titled “PCH & Ruby Lantern,” proposed for construction at 34111 Pacific Coast Highway.

The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street.

The applicant will present an overview and introduction to their plan.

No action will be taken by the Planning Commission on the project.

WHAT’S NEXT: Following what the commission deems ample study on the project, a public hearing will be scheduled. —AS

San Clemente Council Appoints Hospital Committee THE LATEST: To receive additional community input, the San Clemente City Council appointed Mayor Pro Tem Chris Hamm, physicians from Saddleback Memorial Medical Center—Dana Point’s nearest hospital and emergency room—and others, to a committee alongside hospital officials and the city’s public safety chiefs.

The committee will gather information

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Health Department Issues Ebola Update THE LATEST: The Orange County Health Care Agency announced in a public update on Wednesday that while emergency planning is well underway in Orange County in response to the Ebola outbreak, there are currently no cases of Ebola in California and no suspected cases.

The risk of contracting Ebola in Orange County, and the entire United States, is very low, officials said.

In the event of a case appearing in Orange County, there is an emergency operations plan, which will include information on monitoring and limiting the spread of the disease.

“Health and public safety are our first priority and we are prepared to respond if necessary,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Shawn Nelson in the update.

WHAT’S NEXT: The California Department of Public Health has established an Ebola hotline call center to respond to public inquiries at 855.421.5921. Calls will be answered Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: For additional information about Ebola, or other public health concerns, visit www.ochealthinfo.com/ ebola.—JD

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EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter 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

Tuesday, October 21 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY La Paloma, 0 Block (11:09 p.m.) A caller reported his neighbor singing “at the top of his lungs” from a balcony and talking to another individual about Amsterdam.

DISTURBANCE Street of the Blue Lantern, 33500 Block (10:20 p.m.) Dispatch received notice of a man and woman yelling at each other and saying they hated each other.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (10:24 a.m.) A man chased another man with a wooden spoon in the parking lot of Smart and Final.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (8:23 a.m.) An employee reported a 60-year-old man with a cane who appeared to be homeless was disturbing the peace.

The caller requested authorities to tell the man not to return to the store.

Sunday, October 19 TRAFFIC HAZARD Pacific Coast Highway/Palisades Drive (5:59 p.m.) A man demanded a deputy “issue some tickets” at the location because he was nearly run over in the parking lot due to people running the red light.

DISTURBANCE Terra Vista, 0 Block (1:16 a.m.) A man heard a woman scream, “Get off of me,” three times.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Street of the Violet Lantern/El Camino Capistrano (1:08 a.m.) An 18-year old woman passed out after eating hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Saturday, October 18

PETTY THEFT REPORT Victoria Blvd/Doheny Park Raod (8:01 p.m.) A woman reported seeing two men, “gang types,” inside her vehicle in front of the Big 5 sporting goods store.

KEEP THE PEACE Dana Point Harbor Drive, 24800 Block (1:57 a.m.) Authorities were notified of a drunken woman refusing to allow her boyfriend into the room to retrieve his items.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATIONS La Plaza, 24600 Block (5:11 p.m.) Officials were notified of three skateboarders in the park.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive/ Street of the Golden Lantern (1:18 a.m.) A caller reported five to seven skateboarders making too much noise in the parking lot in front of Harpoon Henry’s.

TRESPASSING Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (4:59 p.m.) An apparently homeless man keeps sleeping at the Marina Ranch Market.

Monday, October 20 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Street of the Port Lantern, 34300 Block (8:44 p.m.) Authorities were told of a neighbor having a machine that makes, “screeching noises,” who refused to turn it off.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Orilla Road, 33800 Block (8:12 p.m.) A woman reported items on her patio being moved around and seeing a long-haired man walk away from the neighborhood.

DISTURBANCE Street of the Golden Lantern, 32500 Block (8:12 p.m.) A tall man wearing a white shirt and black pants refused to leave a store, threatened the employees and tried to fight with customers.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Stonehill Drive/Del Obispo Street (2:11 p.m.) A row of parked vehicles with “for sale” signs caused traffic to slow down because drivers were looking at the cars.

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

Friday, October 17 DISTURBANCE- MUSIC OR PARTY Beachwalk Way, 24900 Block (11:20 p.m.) Sheriff’s deputies were called three times between 10:11 p.m. and 11:20 regarding a loud party at the location with drunken juveniles spilling over into the street.

KEEP THE PEACE Beachwalk Way, 24900 Block (9:14 p.m.) A woman said she was house sitting and when she arrived to check up on the house the homeowner’s son was having a party and refused to shut it down.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 33800 Block (6:38 p.m.) Disptach recieved notice of a person yelling and throwing a lamp into the middle of the street.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Bluewater Lane, 33700 Block (11:43 a.m.) A woman called police when she saw a man wearing a green shirt and plaid shorts standing inside of her gate at the front door for over 20 minutes. The man hadn’t knocked on the door, she said.

Joe Reitman, Summer Hanson, Melissa Biethan, Tony Denison, David Marciano and Kenny Johnson gathered for a photo at last year’s Ante Up for Autism event at the St. Regis. Photo: Courtesy of TACA

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY JACQUELINE DeMARCO

DPHS Guides a Historical Tour of Union Station The Dana Point Historical Society on Saturday, Nov. 15 is offering a behindthe-scenes tour of Union Station in Los Angeles. The tour is limited to 35 people and spots not claimed by Historical Society members and their guests will be open to the public.

Tickets are $10 each, including Metrolink train fare.

The approximately 1-mile walking tour includes no stairs or inclines.

The tour will cover architecture, art, culture and social history as it celebrates the 1939 Union Station. Kenneth E. Pratt, director of Union Station Property Management will lead the tour.

Meet at the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink Station at 8:15 a.m. to leave on the Metrolink Train 661 at 8:46 a.m. The tour ends at 1:30 p.m. and attendees may either take the 664 train home at 2 p.m. or stay for lunch at Phillipe (est. 1908) or see Olvera Street, and then return on the 666 train at 4:40 p.m.

Reservations are on a first come, first served basis. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Historical Society Museum at City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern, Ste. 104, or mailed to DPHS Treasurer Paul Hinman, PO Box 544, Dana Point, CA 92629.

Call 949.248.8121 for reservations or more information.

Ante Up For Autism Poker Tournament Talk About Curing Autism’s 8th Annual Ante Up For Autism fundraising poker tournament is set for Saturday, Nov. 8, at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, 1 Monarch Beach Resort in Dana Point.

TACA is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to educate, empower

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and provide support to families affected by autism. Last year’s event raised more than $259,000.

This year’s celebrity guests include actors Johnathon Schaech, Nicky Whelan, Joseph Reitman, David Marciano, Nicholas Gonzalez, Todd Stashwick, model Leyla Milani and professional poker players Michelle Lau, Kenna James and David Mosikian.

Tickets are $350 and include the poker tournament—with tips from poker stars— a four-course dinner and live and silent auctions.

For more information and tickets go to www.anteupforautism.org.

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

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

Community Meetings MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Planning Commission Meeting

6 p.m. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

City Council Meeting Canceled

The regular City Council meeting will be canceled in observance of Election Day, as meeting venues—City Hall and the Community Center—are being utilized as polling places. The next regular meeting is set for Tuesday, Nov. 18, 6 p.m. at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3501, www.danapoint.org.

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DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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 Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@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

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

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)

IS ‘RESIDENTS FOR RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT’ CODE FOR NO DEVELOPMENT AT ALL? CINDY MONROE, Dana Point

CITY EDITOR

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

Letters to the Editor

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jacqueline DeMarco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent Election graphics

by Freepik.com

Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 43. 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.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

When my husband and I opened Luxe Restaurant almost 4 years ago our two boys were just out of diapers and I didn’t have much spare time to donate. Despite that, I was encouraged by Councilman Schoeffel (a regular customer of Luxe at the time) to be a “spokesperson or ambassador” of sorts for the Town Center Project to rally support by local business owners and property owners. I did just that. Later, when I was invited to join the Town Center Committee, I gladly accepted. Then unfortunately, when the vote to fund the Del Prado phase (where my business is located) of Town Center was presented to the council, Mr. Schoeffel did a complete 180 and voted against it!

I recently was named, along with a few others on the Town Center Committee, on what was intended to be a “hit piece” that was inserted into the Dana Point Times.

The piece unsuccessfully insinuates that we are self-serving, bad people. When in reality, we are local business and property owners—and very nice ones, I might add—that would like to see the Town Center project carried out to completion. This “hit piece” then asks for voters to choose Jody Payne, Chuck Rathbone and Nancy Jenkins—who are ironically all supported

by Councilman Schoeffel. Jenkins has since stated that the piece was published without her knowledge or her permission.

Like most Dana Point residents, I am for healthy and responsible development.

But can all variances be bad? The adjacent lot to my restaurant is now a giant hole with a fence around it. The proposed project met all of the Town Center requirements. It was an aesthetically pleasing design of three stories (first floor retail) and had two and a half levels of subterranean parking. The developer could not get the project to pencil out due to the cost for all of the parking, so the investor scrapped the project altogether.

Had they asked for and been granted a small variance, there would have been shops, restaurants and residences there today. For how long will Dana Point residents tolerate that not-so-lovely green fence? At least the lot had Christmas trees for a month of each year prior to that! It seems without a little variance here and there we will all fail. Thus the reason variances exist, just as amendments do. Currently there are 14 vacant lots in the Town Center. There have been only two new developments within the last 20 years.

Reader laments the denial of a permit request for a new hotel at the corner of Pacific Coast Highway and Dana Point Harbor Drive. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

The St. Regis, Ritz Carlton and Laguna Cliffs Marriott all required several variances (although permitted before city incorporation and therefore presided over by the county and are the biggest sources of income for our city. They currently send most of their guests to Laguna Beach to shop and dine. As a 10-year Dana Point resident and small business owner, my personal wish for Town Center and future developments like Doheny Village, is to attract additional local, small business owners to open successful businesses for myself and other residents to enjoy. I look forward to easy, convenient, one-time parking where customers can stroll, shop and dine. After passing the PCH and Del Prado street improvements on a 5-0 vote by our City Council, our city employees worked hard to make this vision a reality. To carry this out, Roma Design was contracted.

Roma is an extremely reputable firm that is responsible for projects such as: The Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica and the Martin Luther King Memorial in Washington DC—just to name a few. Albeit on a much smaller scale, our Lantern District is sure to be fabulous with credentials such as these.

Enter stage right … the politicallymotivated fear mongering! They say: “No variances should be considered!”

“Development is bad!” “Our ‘hometown character’ will be destroyed!” Finally, a few mud-slinging hit pieces are published against good, hard-working members or our community. Can’t we all just get along? Not as long as they continue to promote divisiveness among our residents.

I beg your support. Our local businesses need companion businesses and not vacant storefronts and lots. We are all suffering through the current construction struggling to pay rent and working hard to support our families and those of our employees. Must it all be in vain? Not all variances are bad.

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BEGGAR’S CORNER STAYS THANKS TO CITY LEADERS THOMAS BAKEHORN, Dana Point

As a Dana Point resident, I just wanted to take the time to thank our leaders for one of the dumbest decisions of the year.

Instead of a beautiful hotel welcoming guests to Dana Point Harbor and town, we still have a blighted corner where bums beg for money all day and night. What a lovely sight for our out of town guests who travel Pacific Coast Highway south to the Harbor, for them to see the homeless begging for spare change on the busiest corner of the city.

Oh, and what a beautiful sight it is to see a closed, creepy motel, a pitiful liquor store that’s been boarded up for years, and the dirty, homeless down and outs begging on the most noticeable intersection of the city.

Good job dummies, you have gotten what you deserve, a view obstructed by blight instead of progress.

I am sure our guests are impressed with your progressive decisions.

Sincerely, Thomas Bakehorn, Dana Putz resident

I NEED A SKATEPARK MIKE BUSH, Dana Point

Hi my name is Mike. I need a skatepark in Dana Point because I always get in trouble for skating where I’m not supposed to.

I don’t even know where and where not I am allowed to skate. A skate park is a good and safe place to skate. Thank you!

ISSA: VOTE LISA BARTLETT FOR 5TH DISTRICT SUPERVISOR DARRELL ISSA, Vista

As the House Oversight Chairman in Congress, my number one responsibility is to serve as a watchdog on behalf of the (Cont. on page 8) www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 7) taxpayers—to hold government accountable.

Over the past several years, my colleagues and I have uncovered a multitude of failures in Washington, and worked tirelessly to make government more transparent and responsible to the people. I strongly believe that decisions about how your tax dollars are spent deserve this kind of scrutiny at every level of government.

That’s why I have endorsed Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett to represent south Orange County on the Board of Supervisors.

Lisa Bartlett has a consistent track record of serving the South Orange County region as an effective Mayor and Chairwoman of the Foothill Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency. As a skilled business executive and small business owner, Mayor Bartlett has kept a hawkish eye on city and agency budgets to control costs, eliminate debt, and make government run more efficiently. She passed balanced budgets on time every single year in office and reformed city worker pensions.

As Mayor, she led the city’s efforts with her colleagues to establish a robust cash reserves policy earning Dana Point high marks among the most solvent cities in California. Mayor Bartlett prioritized public safety to protect our families and keep our neighborhoods safe in the wake of the state’s Prisoner Early Release program.

She worked with Mayors of neighboring cities to create the Sheriff’s Contract Cities Working Group.

As I’ve seen by my work with her on issues at the federal level, Mayor Bartlett has forged meaningful relationships at the local, state and national levels that benefit the people she represents.

As Mayor, she worked diligently and collaboratively to make her City an international tourist destination for families and businesses. She found ways to counter the nonsense handed down from Sacramento by crafting policies that led to job creation and a more secure economic environment for our small businesses.

We must elect strong, effective local elected officials we can trust to safeguard your hard earned tax dollars and ensure government doesn’t interfere with our incredible quality of life.

Lisa believes we deserve a government that is accountable to taxpayers and that spends our money effectively and efficiently. She’s been true to that principle and that’s why she has my support for 5th District Supervisor.

Effective Mayor. Businesswoman. Budget Hawk. That’s Lisa Bartlett. Proven fiscal conservative leadership.

I’m honored to ask South Orange County voters to support Lisa Bartlett for Supervisor, 5th District.

EDITOR’S NOTE: U.S. Representative Darrell Issa, Chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, represents the 49th District including the South Orange County communities of Dana Point and San Clemente.

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

Town Center/Lantern District improvements thus far, including two-way traffic on PCH, exceed a reader’s expectations. Photo: Jim Shilander

CAPO CARES! TONI NELSON AND PATRICIA O’KEEFE, Capistrano Beach, Capo Cares co-chairs

Capo Cares! Recently, about 60 Capistrano Beach residents gathered at a backyard community forum with three Council candidates and discovered they are united in a common cause—a vital interest in beautifying and improving their coastal neighborhood and taking their rightful place as a full and equal partner in the City of Dana Point. They quickly discovered there is a growing sentiment among residents that Capo Beach has been treated as the “poor relation” for far too long, and Capo Cares was born.

In the last four years, over $20 million (including $7.7 million which depleted city reserves) has been spent on palm trees, sidewalks and roadways solely in Dana Point Town Center. This amount approaches the annual revenue of Dana Point—on one project, serving one area. Meanwhile, Capistrano Beach, the southern entrance to the City, continues to deteriorate, creating a noticeable lack of cohesion between City neighborhoods. Particularly troubling is the fact that a parcel of surplus city land in Capo Beach was sold for $3.6 million in early 2014, and the funds were earmarked for Town Center. To say that Capo residents feel unrepresented and neglected is a serious understatement.

All three candidates, Nancy Jenkins, Jody Payne and John Tomlinson, pledged to ensure that Capistrano Beach is treated equitably, alongside all Dana Point areas, in the next Council session. Capo Cares will be working to make sure that happens.

We are concerned that the Doheny Village Plan has stalled since early 2010; that several key areas of public landscaping is unsightly or negligible; our pedestrian bridge is a rusted, deteriorated eyesore; and our roadways are ugly and neglected.

Capo Cares brings together residents of Capistrano Beach who love our beautiful coastal location and charming, eclectic town. Our neighborhood represents a sig-

nificant portion of city households and has a large property tax base that contributes to city coffers. Our goal is to participate in important matters facing us to ensure that City Council represents all constituencies.

We want to be a vital part of Dana Point—a unique and inviting gateway to the city.

Dana Point is a jewel of a seaside town, and we want to sparkle too. Concerned residents of Capistrano Beach are invited to email us at Capocares@gmail.com and join our Facebook page www.facebook.com/CapoCares.

Together we can beautify our town while preserving its unique charm and appeal.

LANTERN DISTRICT ‘IMPROVEMENTS’ BETTER THAN ADVERTISED MICHAEL H FROST, Dana Point

This letter is written in response to: “Letter: Lantern District ‘Improvements’ a Disaster” by Barbara Merriman, in the September 26 issue.

For the past 6 to 9 months I have consistently been entertained by the new compliant department otherwise known as the “Letters to the Editor” section of the Dana Point Times. The same old names, recycling the same old content, while often referencing factual inaccuracies. Finally, about a month ago, the Assistant City Manager had to write in and “clarify” a few of the blatantly incorrect statements. I was very happy his letter was immediately next to the weekly submission by Mrs. Betty Hill.

Considering we now have a portion of the tangible final product, (Phase 1 just about complete) Barbara Merriman has offered her opinion on the project and the implementation of the changes. I’d like to offer a perspective which I believe more accurately represents the silent majority of citizens.

The changes are better than advertised.

Ms. Merriman, I did as you asked. I have driven during rush hour the new Pacific Coast Highway. I have also taken the time to walk from Tavern on the Coast up to Blue Lantern during rush hour. I do not agree with your opinions. The lanes are not ridiculously narrow and more than accept-

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able for overall safety. I was not bothered by the “unrelenting palm trees;” actually, I believe aesthetically the project is better looking than what the design showed.

Additionally, a large part of the project was to implement a traffic calming scenario; this aspect was clearly accomplished. I am writing this letter while sitting at J.C. Beans watching the traffic go by, and I already feel more comfortable walking along PCH. The great irony in the letter from Ms. Merriman was the final attack on the majority of the council. Do you realize the very items in Phase 1 you are complaining about were supported by the entire council including Lisa Bartlett and Scott Schoeffel? Do you realize the very items you are complaining about regarding Phase 2 and Del Prado would be intensified by not finishing the project? A position taken by Bartlett and Schoeffel.

I wanted to say thank you to the all the community leaders who have accomplished Phase 1, and on the path to accomplishing Phase 2, including the staunch supporters mentioned by Merriman, but also supporters including the City Manager and staff, past council members consisting of Wayne Rayfield, Laura Anderson, Joel Bishop, the South Coast Water District, and of course the 91 percent of citizens who identified this as the largest priority item during our last community survey. Oh, and maybe, just maybe, the Towncenter Subcommittee!

At the end of the day, when your complaints and arguments have reached the level of, “the unrelenting rows of palm trees (which will surely drop fronds on unsuspecting drivers and pedestrians) dwarf the new sidewalks” I smile, because I know the city has already successfully implemented the first portion of the project and on the way to finishing these infrastructure improvements overwhelmingly supported by the community.

I am not a developer, not a wealthy landowner, just a member of the community who owns his home, and would prefer a business district rather than a highway running through the middle of our town.

VOTE WICKSTROM FOR COUNCIL AILEEN MULCAHY MAY, Dana Point

I am delighted to endorse Alan Wickstrom for Dana Point City Council.

As a 15-year resident, I have worked with Alan and have come to know him as an honest, hardworking individual who has no personal agenda and supports the interests of the community residents and not special interests and developers.

We are at an important crossroads for our city right now and Alan would be a perfect person to move us forward as a community in the direction that best benefits those who live here and pay taxes.

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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The List

What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 24 HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR & MOONLIGHT MOVIE 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Bring the entire family out for free activities including carnival games, costume parade, cupcake decorating and marionette show. Don’t forget to bring a decorated pumpkin to enter in the pumpkin decorating contest. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone will play at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy free refreshments during the movie. Lantern Bay Park, 2511 Park Lantern Road Dana Point. For further information call 949.248.3530

Saturday | 25 WOMEN & WHEELS FREE CAR CARE EVENT 10 a.m.-noon. Star Motors hosts a free car care workshop for women. Learn what’s under the hood and how your brakes work, as well as skills such as checking tire pressure, tread and oil; the importance of “check engine” lights and maintenance requirements. Light breakfast and goodie bags are included. Men are welcome. Register online, by phone or send an email to emma@star-motors.com.

32955 Calle Perfecto, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1970, www.star-motors.com.

BY SAMANTHA HAMMER, DANA POINT TIMES

M

ission Grill sits in the historic heart of the city, where visitors and locals enjoy a delicious dining experience with a perfect view of the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano. Steps away are the Los Rios Historic District and the San Juan Capistrano train depot.

Owner John Gillotti is a fourth generation restaurateur with success built on his personal philosophy providing superior guest services, serving natural delicious foods and offering a comfortable dining experience.

“It takes years of thought, education, working knowledge and the right people to create the complete package for success,” Gillotti said.

Mission Grill offers homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily with an American-Mexican mix of specialties that have been created through Gillotti’s joy for cooking. To add splendor to his establishment, he invited a local celebrity chef Rahm Fama from the Ritz Carlton to provide instruction in nouvelle cuisine techniques and inspire creativity in his kitchen staff.

From the gorgonzola bacon burger and chorizo burger to calamari or salmon tacos, menu choices run from traditional to innovative. Speaking of traditional, Mission

DOHENY STATE BEACH HALLOWEEN HAUNT 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Celebrate Halloween in a fun and safe environment with arts and crafts, a fun zone and educational booths. Admission is free but a donation of one non-perishable food item per guest is suggested. Don’t forget to dress up the little ones. Doheny State Park, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, picnic areas A and B, Dana Point, 949.496.6172, www.dohenysatebeach.org.

CLIFF MILLER 7:30-11:30. Live music at Harpoon Henry’s.

34555 Golden Lantern St, Dana Point, 949.493.2933, www.windandsearestaurants.com/harpoonhenrys NATE HANCOCK 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

Sunday | 26 HALLOWEEN TERRIFYING 10-MILER, SPOOKY 5K, 10K AND SUPER HERO HALF-MILE KIDS RUN 6:30 a.m. Have a howling good time running along the Salt Creek Regional Corridor Path with views of wilderness, the beach and spooky ghosts and goblins. Halloween and super hero costumes encouraged. Register online. Race day registration and All-Hallows Festival opens at 6:30 a.m.

Salt Creek Beach Park, 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.975.1812, www.renegaderaceseries.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

Monday | 27 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.

Tuesday | 28 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.

TODDLER & PRESCHOOL STORYTIMES 10 a.m-10:30 a.m. Stories for children 18-35 months, and from 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for children 3-5 at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

Wednesday | 29 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29: FALL FAMILY FUN AT THE FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Visit the Capo Beach Farmers Market for a special Halloween fun event including live music by singer/songwriter Sidney Bowen, free crafts, hula hooping and an all-ages costume contest at 6 p.m. Win a free kid’s bike from Buy My Bikes! A candy sale, to benefit Palisades Elementary School PTA and their efforts to fund fourth-grade field trips, will also be held. Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org.

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

OUTRAGEOUS ACTS OF PEACE 7 p.m. Nobel Peace Laureate, Leymah Gbowee, and international law professor, Karima Bennoune, speak at Soka University on the topic “Outrageous Acts of Peace: The role ordinary people must play in transforming violence to peace.” $8 for Page 10

An avocado bacon cheeseburger with sweet potato fries served at Mission Grill. Courtesy photo

Grill is a great place to enjoy Mexican specialties such as menudo and posole.

Shaded umbrella tables overlooking the hills of San Juan Capistrano offers a perfect outdoor setting for the enjoyment of hand crafted cocktails, beer, wine and dessert specials served daily.

A kids’ menu and custom catering are also available.

31721 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.8055, www.missiongrillsjc.com PRICE RANGE: $2.50 - $8.25 PAYMENT ACCEPTED: Cash, credit cards HOURS: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

adults, $6 for students and seniors. 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.480.4000, www.performingarts.soka.edu.

Thursday | 30 YAPPY HOUR HOWL-O-WEEN 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Follow Fido to happy hour at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel for this monthly cocktail party. Four-legged friends get complimentary biscuits and beef and bacon flavored water while their humans enjoy burgers, brews and wine. This special Halloween Yappy Hour includes a costume contest with prizes.

Funds raised will benefit Canine Companions for Independence. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, www.ritz-carlton.com.

BRANDON WILDISH 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

TIM JOHNSON 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Taste blends from the West Coast’s smallest, finest wineries accompanied by vibrant small plates and live music. Wine tastings run from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. each Thursday. DaVine Food & Wine, 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.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

Council Candidates Make Final Pitch Nine hopefuls on why they should be elected to the Dana Point City Council

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

N

ine candidates are in the race for three open spots on the five-member Dana Point City Council.

The trio of seats will be vacated by Mayor Lisa Bartlett, who is terming out and running for the Fifth District seat on the Orange County Board of Supervisors; Mayor Pro Tem Steven Weinberg, who is terming out and Councilman Bill Brough, who has served one four-year term on the council and chose not to run for a second, instead joining the race for the California Assembly 73rd District Seat.

The candidates were asked a series of five questions about their views on the issues facing the city and what they would do in response, if elected.

Their answers have been published weekly leading up to this special election issue of the Dana Point Times.

The candidates’ answers to question five are presented here unedited and in the order in which they will appear on the ballot.

Question five: Why should Dana Point citizens vote for you?

Chuck Rathbone Retired chief financial officer/volunteer All of us here love Dana Point and when we cast our vote it is for our city, our neighbors, our families and our unique way of life.

I’m running for office to preserve and protect our city. I’m not here for personal gain, to represent outside interests or developers, or to use the city council as a stepping stone for higher office.

My financial and governing experience will allow me to serve all of us.

If you look at my qualifications at chuckrathbone4danapoint.com, you’ll see that I have the background and the experience to represent each of you and make sound decisions based on what will benefit all the residents, not just the select few.

I’m here to represent your interests and ensure that you are informed and included in the discussions that drive the future vision of this paradise we call “Home”.

I’m Chuck Rathbone, #1 on the ballot, asking you to support my candidacy and cast your vote for me and for Dana Point.

Together we will protect our city and help it achieve its best potential.

Thank you Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

Jody Payne Business owner/writer/ former educator Residents need to know their candidates well.

Otherwise, we end up with a city council making decisions that do not reflect citizens’ wishes. Candidates need to be honest and forthright in their platforms, and when elected, fairly represent their constituents. Ten years ago I was openly, publicly opposed to the overdevelopment and over-densification of Dana Point.

Today I feel the same way, but even more strongly. Tomorrow, elected or not, I will resist development proposals that thwart the will of the residents, defy common sense, and do not comport with established law and policy.

I decided to run for city council because I wanted more transparency in budget allocation and the planning process for major developments. I would like to see better citizen notification, less subjective planning department recommendations, and hardship variances only. I am not backed or endorsed by anyone who would profit from development. I cannot and will not be bought by special interests.

Please vote for Jody Payne, #2 on the ballot. You will get a councilwoman who is honest, intelligent, and an independent thinker. I will work tirelessly to keep Dana Point, as Richard Henry Dana said so eloquently, “the most romantic spot on the coast.”

Richard Viczorek Marine Corps officer/ attorney/small businessman LEADERSHIP. CHARACTER. SERVICE. These are qualities that are taught, tested and demanded of U.S. Marines.

These are not merely words – they represent my background, credo and actions.

And these are the things that translate into my providing the best representation for you as your City Councilman.

As a husband and father of three young boys, I am dedicated to continuing Dana Point’s forward momentum for the future of my family and yours and maintaining our excellent quality of life.

As an attorney, I will ensure the rule of law is adhered to by our government.

As a small businessman, I will ensure the city remains business-friendly and sets the conditions required to create economic growth.

As a fiscal conservative, I will focus on keeping government small, balancing the

budget, staying out of debt and on prioritizing core government functions.

As a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps Reserve and Iraq war veteran, I will work tirelessly on behalf of our community’s veterans.

In sum, as your City Councilman, you can be sure I will always act – not in my own self-interests – but in the best interests of you and the entire city of Dana Point.

On November 4th, VOTE VICZOREK! Nancy Jenkins Retired educator/professional development trainer/ volunteer At the 25th anniversary of cityhood, we have much to be proud of. However, all is not perfect, as we still have issues. These range from controversial development proposals; cost overruns, construction, and the impacts on businesses from Town Center improvements; a lack of progress on Doheny Village Specific Plan, among numerous concerns in Capo Beach; and, above all, protecting our quality of life.

The three open seats on the 2014 City Council mark a new chapter in our city, and a time to adjust our course. I believe I am uniquely qualified to serve in this transition. As a City commissioner and member of the first grants Committee, I know how City Hall works. A 23-year resident, I have held leadership positions in various organizations, including the Dana Point 5th Marine Support Group. I have run my own business. My career in leadership management and consensus-building will be an asset on the Council, and I have the time to devote to making our city the best it can be.

We have an opportunity in November to ensure the right leadership. Vote for Nancy Jenkins, 4th on the Ballot on Nov. 4th!

Visit www.electnancyjenkins.com and like my Facebook page.

Joe Muller Small business owner My wife and I love Dana Point and that is why we decided to raise our family here.

I care about the future of our city and feel I have the experience to offer solutions that are in the best interest of the residents and the taxpayers.

I will lead, listen and build consensus to solve our issues.

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Roy “Ryan” Divel IV Local businessman/ youth advocate The residents need a Councilman they feel they can trust. One that actually listens to the collective voice of the people! Essentially that’s all I am. A conduit for the people’s voice. NEVER, refer to me as a “politician”. That label makes me sick.

I have a family reputation to live up to dating back nearly 100 years in this area!

That’s on par with historic names like Ole Hanson and Sidney Woodruff..

It’s of Extreme Importance the integrity and soul of our tight-knit beach community NOT be lost. I insist our current progression not lose touch with our historic past, but display it proudly as we move forward into the future.

Now that the first Town Center development has been approved by the current council, it will be my job to maintain oversight on this and any future development as to assure the people’s concerns are always addressed.

All city spending will be analyzed and verified to cut waste and rebuild our financial reserves. Remember, the main objective for local government is to increase quality of life for current residents.. To do this we need a healthy bank account … and a skatepark!

Thank You. www.Divel4DP.com John Tomlinson Business owner/attorney My name is John Tomlinson and I want to earn your vote on November 4, 2014 for Dana Point City Council. I believe that my education, experience as a small business owner, leadership in volunteer non-profit and profit organizations, and my ability to develop community consensus will serve the residents of Dana Point well for the next four years.

I hold a Law Degree from Western State University College of Law, and a Masters of Business Administration from Chapman University. I have owned my own property management business since 1999, where I diligently practice the philosophy of, “The best fertilizer for your trees is your footsteps.” Forecasting, budget analysis, risk assessment, practical community development, transparency, leadership, and consensus building are the life skills I will use to grow our promising future.

(Cont. on page 14) www.danapointtimes.com

(Cont. from page 13) These life skills I have learned from my service and leadership in the following local organizations: Saint Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Scouting, AYSO, Free and Accepted Masons, and the Apartment Association of Orange County.

I am proud family man, and want to take this opportunity to thank my children and lovely wife Lori for their support during this election.

VOTE JOHN TOMLINSON FOR OUR FUTURE! Alan Wickstrom Web design agency owner/ community volunteer This election is about YOU, the residents of Dana Point, Capo Beach & Monarch Beach.

My wife and I moved here in 1986 and fell in love with the area,

Small Area of DP to Vote for CUSD Two vie for Trustee Area 4 seat on school board

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

I

n this election, only a small portion of the city will be voting for candidates running for Capistrano Unified School District Board.

Three seats are up for election—Trustee Areas 4, 6 and 7.

Area 4 is the only one of the three open seats representing a portion of Dana Point, specifically Dana Hills High School, as incumbent Anna Bryson decided not to seek reelection. The Area 4 board member also represents Laguna Niguel.

Bryson made an unsuccessful run in the June primary for a shot at replacing Diane Harkey in the State Assembly.

Craig Alexander and Martha McNicholas are vying for her spot.

In Area 6, incumbent Ellen Addonizio is running against Gila Jones, and in Area 7, incumbent Lynn Hatton-Hodson is up against Julie Collier.

McNicholas and Alexander were tasked with answering the question: Why should Dana Point citizens cast a vote for you?

Their answers are below, presented unedited. They are listed in the order in Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

the people and its small town charm. My devotion to “Keep Dana Point Beautiful” is shown in my actions, volunteering around town for decades. My passion is retaining our small town charm, while making common sense improvements to our safety, infrastructure and parks.

EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP As a 19-year Dana Point business owner, I have the leadership skills, vision and fiscally responsible business experience to navigate our city through an important juncture in our development.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR & A PASSION FOR SERVICE I was selected 2009 Dana Point Citizen of the Year for my service to residents. I have served as Government Affairs Chair for our Chamber, President of SOCSA Foundation at Dana Hills High School, President of Rotary, Vice-Chair of Dana Point’s Arts and Culture Commission, on the board of the 5th Marine Support

Group and more.

READY TO LISTEN, ACT & SERVE A vote for WICKSTROM means I will listen and act on what YOU think is important for Dana Point.

Call/Text: 949-842-0594 Email: alan@AL4DP.com Web: AL4DP.com

which they will appear on the ballot.

My many years of involvement in education and public policy have earned me the trust and endorsement of CUSD Trustees Ellen Addonizio and Jim Reardon, the majority of the Orange County Board of Education, the Entire City Council of Laguna Niguel, Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates, State Senator Mimi Walters, Dana Point City Councilmen Carlos Olvera & Bill Brough, and many parents and taxpayers in our community.

For more information see my web site at www.craigforcusd.com. If you have any questions about my background, goals or principles, or you just want to talk about your experience with our schools, please do not hesitate to email me at craig@ craigforcusd.com.

I respectfully ask for your vote on November 4th.

Craig Alexander As your elected school board trustee, I will always place the students as my highest priority when making decisions.

Over the last four years, I have been disappointed with the school district board majority decisions to lay off our teachers, reduce support staff, increase class sizes, institute furlough days that kept students out of school, and practice deficit spending. My goal is to be a vote against these practices and place student education as first priority.

I have taken the “no union support” pledge. I will not seek, or accept, the endorsement or support of any union— including those in our school district.

You will also not see me at school events waiving campaign signs on the sidewalks. I believe schools should be about education and student achievement, not politics.

I support: • School choice. CUSD provides a great educational experience, but parents should have options including traditional public schooling, public charter schools, magnet schools, and other educational methods and venues for their children.

• Smaller class size.

• Academic standards that exceed the federally mandated minimum of Common Core.

• Lower taxes.

• Fiscal responsibility.

• Transparency.

Harold Kaufman Businessman/former City Councilman and Mayor Not since incorporation have we had three open seats. This year’s election will set the stage for Dana Point’s long-range future.

Most of those running have little or no experience in city government. Some want to change a system they don’t even understand.

I was on Council from 1994 to 2002, Chairman of the first Planning Commission, charter member of the OC Fire

Martha McNicholas Experience. I am a business owner, parent leader and engineer, not a politician. My nearly 20 years of engagement and commitment to the success of students, teachers, and the community has earned me the endorsement of parents, teachers, five of the seven current Trustees, retired Superintendent Dr. Joseph Farley, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education Dr. Bill Evers, and other education professionals.

I have: • Served as PTA President at George White Elementary and Niguel Hills Middle School, and EVP at Dana Hills High School, in addition to chairing several committees

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Authority and CASA, Vice-Chairman of Foothill/Eastern Corridor Agency, and have years of community involvement as a board member of The Ocean Institute, South Coast Medical Center, Capistrano Valley Symphony, AYSO referee, volunteer for 5th Marine Support Group and Mission Hospital Foundation. I’m a life member of the Historical Society and founding member of the Town Center Organization, a 30 year resident and 28 year member of the Chamber of Commerce. Coupled with my experience as a USAF Officer, Eagle Scout, and businessman for over 50 years affords me the unique ability over all candidates to hit the bricks running.

I may be the oldest candidate but I have the energy of the youngest and the vision for the future of Dana Point to see a resident-friendly, business-friendly, wonderful place to live, work, and play.

I am last on the ballot but Dana Point is first in my heart.

• Recently served as President of Capistrano Unified Council of PTSA’s (covering all 52 PTA associations within CUSD).

• Advocated in Sacramento for local control and equalization of school funding, and in support of legislation affecting school facilities, student safety, academic achievement and parents’ rights.

• Served on Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council, Attendance Boundary, School Calendar, and WASC Accreditation Committees.

• Advised CUSD Executive Committee with parent input on the Local Control Accountability Plan.

• Led the million-dollar parent fundraising effort to save 20-to-1 student to teacher ratio in 3rd grade.

• Chaired Dana Hills High School’s “Safe and Sober” Grad Nite Committee, and chaperoned for the past 9 years.

• Served on the Executive Boards of the CUSD Foundation, the (Dana Hills) Dolphin Force Foundation, local youth soccer, and the Dana Running Foundation.

As your Trustee, I will • Support school of choice options • Advocate for smaller class sizes and improved facilities • Use my professional engineering experience to develop academic programs in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) • Collaborate with college and business leaders to assure students are prepared for 21st century careers • Assure that local control and accountability plans meet the needs of all students and communities Thank you for your vote. www.mcnicholasforcusd.com www.danapointtimes.com

Water District Hopefuls Sound Off The five candidates for South Coast Water District on area water issues, approach if elected

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

A

s the terms of two South Coast Water District Directors ends a duo of seats are open and five hopefuls have entered the race to fill them.

The spots are being vacated by Richard Runge, who was elected in 2000 and has chosen not to seek reelection, and Bob Moore, a 15-year board member who is making a run for another term. The four in the running are Norm Denton, Dennis Erdman, Richard Gardner and William “Bill” Green.

SCWD Board members are elected to four-year terms on the five-member body and there are no term limits. The terms of directors Wayne Rayfield, Dick Dietmeier and Rick Erkeneff run through 2016.

For this special election issue of the DP Times, the candidates were asked two questions. Their answers appear here unedited and in ballot order.

SCWD provides water and sewer services to 40,000 residents, 1,000 businesses and more than three million visitors a year in Dana Point, South Laguna and areas of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.

Question one: In light of the ongoing drought, what are the next steps (in order) that the South Coast Water District should take in order to secure reliable and affordable sources of water?

Bill Green Last weekend I inspected the State Water Project with MWD Chairman Record and MODOC Director Ackerman from Orville Dam through the Bay Delta and to Mile One of the 444 mile long SWP Canal which serves Southern California. I was alarmed at the significance of the Drought Crisis for All Californians, unless we get rain and snow pack soon, Orville Dam is now dangerously down to 29% capacity.

I would take immediate conservation actions: 1. Promote Newspaper Ads, Editorials, Social Media ads and community signage about MWD, MWDOC and SCWD Incentives available for turf removal now increased from $2 SF to $4SF which accounts for 60% of Southern California home water usage as well as many other water related incentives, see BeWaterWise.com 2. Promote the MWDOC funded conservation educational program in Dana Point elementary schools.

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

3. Recycle the 27,500 acre feet of sewage effluent that is currently being wasted and discharged into our ocean for reclaimed irrigation water and San Juan Basin recharge.

4. Remind SCWD customers of the Governor’s Water Supply Alert of 20% cutbacks prior to possible 40% mandatory cutback and allocations.

5. Support Proposition 1 to increase water storage, Doheny Desalination, the Bay Delta Conservation Plan to increase Southern California Water reliability.

Richard Gardner Conservation First! Conserve now! The state’s water reserves are very low.

Visit: www.mwdh2o.com and look at the drought conditions. The flyover Lake Orville is shocking.

The garden tab shows California friendly plants and how to transform your old lawn into a beautiful drought saving landscape.

Besides saving water and money, they will buy your turf!

SCWD, together with our neighboring agencies, should declare a level 2 supply alert. This will require large water users to have Landscape Certification Plans.

SCWD should expand this service. Golf courses must use recycled water to irrigate under a level 2. The district would provide a water budget for each customer.

In this way, if water rates were to increase, indoor water needs could be met at an affordable price. Mandatory conservation without monitoring and enforcement is really just voluntary. To help people conserve we could provide a helpline like; 949-DROUGHT, to report broken sprinklers or wasteful practices.

The long term plans must include recycling the 16 million gallons per day that are wasted to the outfall at Doheny Beach.

Stormwater capture and reuse should be accomplished upstream.

Finally, ocean desalination must be developed to provide an uninterruptible base supply of high quality water.

Bob Moore As elected board member I can assure you that your South Coast Water District has made specific plans for the present drought. This is not the first time California has been in a drought, nor will it be the last.

We must always be prepared for various natural and man-made problems.

As your elected director, I work with the

other directors and management insuring our customers having potable water at all times.

My next steps: 1. Developing above ground reservoir in conjunction with other local agencies will give SCWD new source of water.

2. SCWD has, with other participants, preliminary wells in place for Doheny ocean desalination-15 million gallons daily.

Permits and state low interest loans are in process to finance SCWD proportional costs. SCWD owns the land necessary for the plant. This is urgent.

3. I have advanced a new plan to recharge San Juan Creek with recycled water that will increase productivity of the two SCWD wells.

4. In work today are new recycled water lines for landscape areas in central Dana Point and the Harbor. This will save potable water now being used for greenbelts.

Recycled water must be used in all new commercial buildings for toilets.

Norm Denton In regard to the drought, short term, SCWD must communicate conservation of the precious water resources we have. I will urge residents, businesses and our resorts to take advantage of the efficiency rebates for water conservation. There is a significant amount of rebate dollars for such conservation measures, e.g. as turf removal and drought tolerant plants. These and many other steps are subsidized by Metropolitan Water District, There is tens of millions of dollars available as incentives that promotes conservation. Create more recycled water. Reduce sprinkler overspray. Reduce water timers to the SCWD guidelines.

In the long term, we must plan for the future with a desal plant. Proposition 1 which is on the ballot creates over $7 billion dollars for flood management, storage, recycling programs, groundwater sustainability, watershed protection, ecosystem restoration, and regional water reliability. If and when Prop 1 is approved, I will implore staff and the board to acquire much needed dollars for our infrastructure needs and to help fund our desal plant effort.

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Dennis Erdman At this time, the most effective measure to deal with the drought is customer education, which leads to conservation.

Outdoor water use can be curtailed and in some cases

converted to recycled water. Conversion of turf to California native and drought tolerant landscape can reduce demand.

Indoor water use efficiency can also be improved when customers understand the benefits and learn methods to conserve.

Longer term, SCWD needs to develop local water to a greater degree than exists today. There is more local groundwater that can be put to beneficial use.

The recycled water system can also be expanded. I will advocate for SCWD to have a minimum of 30 percent of the District’s average daily demand to be from local production. Another source of local water that can be developed is seawater desalination. This potential water source will be more costly. SCWD will need to work with other water agencies in South County to put together a project that has sufficient economy of scale to keep the costs from being out of reach.

Question two: Why should residents vote for you?

Bill Green I will represent you in fighting rate increases while supporting protection of the SCWD valuable groundwater supply and insuring efficient water delivery. Business as usual will not suffice at this critical juncture in the history of our District.

Strategic planning for future water sustainability, recycled water reuse, conservation and production is absolutely essential with today’s demands and drought conditions.

I support Proposition 1 California’s ballot initiative for Water Storage Reservoirs, Recycled Waste Water and the Doheny Desalination Project.

While serving you as a Board Director of the State Water Quality Control Board, my responsibility was to provide the highest quality water and protect our pristine coastlines. Also served as Commissioner of the County Flood Control and Water Conservation District.

As a retired principal in an engineering consulting firm and public agency providing water resource services to Southern California water agencies over 40 years together with being a retired Commercial Avocado Farmer having 33 years of agriculture and water management practices in conservation and water efficiency. I have first-hand experience in (Cont. on page 19) www.danapointtimes.com

(Cont. from page 16) the escalating costs to residents and farmers relying California’s imported water.

I am a Veteran and Eagle Scout and I firmly embrace Integrity, accountability and transparency to you the customer.

Richard Gardner I will represent the residents and ratepayers of our whole district. I have always been fiscally conservative and am proud to have advocated for an organizational assessment that led to a reduction in our overhead costs.

Voted against: • spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on plans for a new administration building.

• a $20,000 per year pay increase to the general manager and will continue to protect the ratepayer’s dollars.

Voted to: • study desalination at Doheny Beach to learn if the slant wells will produce enough water at an affordable price.

I support studying regional desalination at the SONGS for future savings.

Experience counts when it comes to water. Planning between agencies is stronger when directors have years of working relationships. First elected in 1996, I look forward to ensuring we continue to have excellent water and sewer service.

The SCWD also represents you in the use of the 30 acres, located between the tracks and the creek in Capo Beach. This large piece of undeveloped property in Dana Point should be used for water and sewer projects first and other uses should go through a full public process.

Thank you for voting for Richard Gardner, capopalm@hotmail.com Bob Moore Since you first elected me as your director, my record of proven leadership at your water district is well known. Currently, I serve as Vice President of the Board and Chairman of the Finance/Administration. I have previously served as President, Chair of Engineering/Operations. One of my substantial achievements is reduction of fixed overhead that will save about $1 million dollars in the 2014/15 fiscal year.

During my tenure, you have received cost effective water and wastewater service.

I advocated the purchase of water from Orange County Water District wells in an emergency. I believe that we have and must continue searching for new ways to meet your future needs as well as maintaining the integrity of the district infrastructure.

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

My additional experience has been in serving as President of Board of Directors of South Orange County Wastewater Agency that processes all waste from ten cities and agencies. I have represented SCWD at numerous meetings and conferences. My knowledge and experience of your water needs and issues has grown and continues to grow each day. I am committed to being your representative for all of Capistrano Beach, Dana Point and parts of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano that we serve.

Norm Denton I am the right choice because I’m a proven, effective leader and have 16+ years of public service to the City of Dana Point on your planning commission. As a past business owner and executive I understand the need for fiscal responsibility, and how to eliminate wasteful spending.

SCWD must deliver clean and safe water at the lowest rate possible. I will be an active, hands on board participant that will go out and view all projects. I will be effective and pro active with fresh eyes and a new voice as a Director at South Coast Water District. Please vote for number 4 on your ballot, Norm Denton.

PROTECTING OUR WATER & CONSERVING FOR THE FUTURE www.norm4scwd.com Dennis Erdman For the past 27 years, I’ve worked with communities in California, including Dana Point, to operate and manage water and wastewater systems. I’ve addressed the problems and issues facing SCWD on the front lines. Prior to that, I’ve served as an elected director at TriCities Municipal Water District for 16 years. During this time Tri-Cities made numerous advances to insure the reliability of the imported water system serving south Orange County. SCWD now operates and maintains the former Tri-Cities facilities. I bring both policy level and operations level experience to the position of “Member of the Board of Directors”. As a water district General Manager, I’ve learned that it takes policy leadership coupled with staff’s operational expertise to accomplish the goals needed to be an excellent utility provider. I’ll use my background and experience as a civil engineer, water district General Manager and a former water district Director, to help guide SCWD to a successful future. Thank you for your consideration!

Meet the Candidates for State Assembly and Senate Races Outgoing Supervisor Bates looking to move up to Senate seat, Dana Point Councilman Brough targets Assembly opening

BY JIM SHILANDER, DANA POINT TIMES

S

outh County will choose new members of both the State Senate and State Assembly Nov. 4.

The 36th Senate district has been redrawn, after formerly being represented

by Mark Wyland, who is leaving the legislature.

Orange County Supervisor Pat Bates, who is termed out of her seat, is the Republican nominee. She is facing write-in candidate Gary Kephart, a former candidate in Assembly District 71 in 2010.

Dana Point City Councilman Bill Brough, a Republican, and Irvine college professor and attorney Wendy Gabriella are competing in the 73rd assembly district, where Diane Harkey is also termed out.

Brough, who formerly worked for Harkey, emerged as the top Republican vote getter from a crowded field during the June 3 primary.

Gabriella was the top overall vote getter by 55 votes, but was the only Democrat in the open primary. Their ballot statements are below: Wendy Gabriella Wendy Gabriella is a teacher, civil attorney, and 25 year resident of South Orange County.

As a career educator, she has witnessed how access to education provides a skilled workforce, contributes to job creation, and economic development.

Wendy Gabriella has worked tirelessly in the classroom for 30 years to promote academic excellence and prepare the next generation for the new economy.

Wendy Gabriella is a strong advocate for transparency in decision making at all levels of government.

As a civil attorney, Wendy specializes in the California Open Meeting Act and the First Amendment.

She believes that our Legislators should do more to foster open and transparent government at the state level.

If elected, Wendy Gabriella’s priorities will be: rebuilding a first rate education system, increasing access to affordable higher education, protecting South

Page 19

County’s taxpayers by enforcing fiscal accountability, job creation, and preserving our valuable coastline.

Wendy Gabriella believes it’s time for South Orange County to send a career educator, not a career politician, to Sacramento.

Bill Brough Thank you for your vote of confidence in June. My wife and I know that the futures of all our children and grandchildren depend on the decisions made by legislators today.

With that in mind, I am running for State Assembly to promote a better tomorrow for all our families.

In the competition for businesses and jobs, California is losing to other states.

This is unacceptable and has to change.

As your assemblyman, I will fight to create a more competitive economic environment by simplifying our business, regulatory, and tax codes.

The Legislature ought to require from itself and from regulatory agencies a robust cost benefit analysis using recognized economic standards before imposing new costs on our businesses.

California has one of the nation’s highest tax rates and, yet, amongst the largest government debts.

We should demand that our government live within its means and learn to focus on necessities, including academically excellent schools, strong public safety and an efficient infrastructure for transportation, energy and water.

Sacramento needs problem solvers. On city council, I moved projects that had been stalled for years. We built public/ private partnerships that improved our business infrastructure without increasing taxes.

It is time that we demand performance from our lawmakers.

That is why I support the law that withholds legislators’ pay unless the budget is on-time and balanced.

Working together, we can bring back the gold to California. I would be honored to have your vote. www.danapointtimes.com

Supervisor Candidates Look for South County Votes

Propositions Cover Diverse Issues

Ming, Bartlett, running to replace termed-out Bates

Water bond, sentencing and malpractice limit amongst the choices being made by voters

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

I

n the race for Orange County Fifth District Supervisor, Dana Point’s Mayor Lisa Bartlett and Laguna Niguel City Councilman Robert Ming are looking to replace Supervisor Pat Bates, who is terming out and making a run for the State Senate 36th District seat.

Both Ming and Bartlett are terming out of their city council seats after having served two consecutive fouryear terms in their respective cities.

The county supervisor race is a top-two election format where, until the June 3 primary, four were in the running. Ming and Bartlett won their spots on the Nov. 4 ballot by beating Mission Viejo Councilman Frank Ury and county Deputy District Attorney Joe Williams.

The Fifth District includes the cities of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano along with nine other south Orange County cities and a handful of unincorporated areas. Each of the county’s five districts elects one board member to a four-year term.

Ming and Bartlett were asked to answer the question: Why should voters choose you to represent them as Fifth District Supervisor?

Their answers are presented here in ballot order.

Lisa Bartlett I am proudly serving as Mayor of Dana Point and know firsthand what it takes to lead as an elected official. Under my leadership on the Dana Point City Council we paid off our unfunded pension liability, achieve a balanced budget every year, maintain significant cash reserves and keep our city debt free. I created and implemented economic development programs for our businesses that also protected the taxpayers. In 2009, I created the Contract Cities Working Group to work directly with the Sheriff and 5th District Supervisor to ensure we have the very best program for community based policing resulting in a high level of public safety and efficiencies in resources and cost.

People often ask why I want to run for Orange County Supervisor. Simply stated, I’m a longtime resident of Orange County so I have a vested interest. I grew up here and built my life here. I want to ensure that we enhance and protect our quality of life for all of us now and for future generations.

I will be the fiscal watchdog at the county and make government run more efficiently. My degrees in finance and business plus my 15-plus years as a corporate executive and my tenure in regional board leadership positions, make me uniquely qualified to govern Orange County, the fifth largest county in America.

This race comes down to leadership and governance philosophy. I have served in leadership positions on several significant regional boards; my opponent has not. I have the track record and the leadership skills to work Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

collaboratively with others to work through tough issues and achieve good policy solutions.

I am honored to have the endorsement of Congressman Darrell Issa, Marion Bergeson, former Secretary of Education and former O.C. Supervisor, as well as the majority of city elected officials in seven of the 11 cities in the 5th District. I am also proud to be endorsed by law enforcement and will work to keep our communities safe.

I would be honored to serve as your Orange County Supervisor of the 5th District and respectfully ask for your vote. www.LisaForSupervisor.com Robert Ming My wife Susie and I were at the Harbor a few weeks ago. Watching the ships during dinner at the Wind & Sea reminded me how truly blessed we are to live here, and how important this Supervisorial race is for Dana Point.

As a two time Mayor of Laguna Niguel and an 8-year councilmember, I know what it means to do good government, and I know that I can’t serve you well unless I listen to you.

That is exactly what I’ve been doing and though the issues are a little different, the process of getting to know people is the same.

Many people want to know how I’m different than my opponent. So, I’ve selected a few examples of things she has done that I would have done differently.

I wouldn’t have voted for Dana Point’s plastic bag ban. It isn’t that I care less about the environment, but I believe there are better ways to solve the problem.

Fully biodegradable single use bags are already available. Good education helps people learn to make smart choices. The ban misses opportunities to teach and improve ourselves. We should have worked together to solve the problem without restricting people’s freedoms.

I also wouldn’t have voted for the Lantern District plan and then voted against funding it. As elected officials, we need to communicate clearly and not send mixed messages. Instead, be clear, keep taxes and regulations low, and provide an excellent level of services.

That’s what we’ve done in Laguna Niguel. That’s what I will do at the county.

What it really boils down to is leadership. For the Harbor Revitalization Plan to become a reality, it will take a strong Supervisor committed to seeing it through. That’s what I’ll do, while focusing on the interests of boaters, harbor merchants and the recreational public users.

Fiscally responsible common sense leadership requires a real willingness to explore new ways of doing things and working together to solve problems.

That’s what I plan to deliver. I hope you will grant me the opportunity to serve. www.RobertMing.com Page 20

BY JIM SHILANDER, DANA POINT TIMES

C

alifornia voters usually see a number of state measures and propositions at every election and 2014 is no different.

This year’s statewide measures include proposals effecting medical malpractice law, potential expansion of gambling and drug sentencing, as well as state initiatives aiming to rebuild California’s water infrastructure and a potential state Constitutional amendment that would mandate the state paying into a budget stabilization account.

PROPOSITION 1 With the state in the midst of a drought, this proposal calls for more than $7 billion in water infrastructure projects through bonds, as well as watershed protections. The measure is backed by both the state Republican and Democratic parties after being delayed by two election cycles (a water bond was supposed to go before voters in 2010 and 2012).

Opponents say the measure focuses too much on dam building rather than local infrastructure.

PROPOSITION 2 Creates a “rainy day fund” for the state during budgeting and requires an annual transfer of funds from the state’s general fund into the account to avoid or lessen the impact of future budget crises. Local school districts would not receive the same levels of funding they currently do from the state.

PROPOSITION 45 Would give the state’s Insurance Commissioner authority to reject changes to health insurance company rates, though it exempts large group insurance plans. The decision would be subject to judicial review. Opponents say this vests too much authority in the office.

PROPOSITION 46 Increases the state’s medical malpractice pain and suffering cap from $250,000 to more than $1 million and requires random drug and alcohol screenings of doctors, with positive tests reported to the state medical board. It would also create a statewide prescription database. Proponents argue that the state has not raised the malpractice cap since the 1970s. Opponents argue the move could drive doctors from the state due to higher costs and that random screenings of doctors would not provide protection for patients.

PROPOSITION 47 Changes certain nonviolent drug and property felony offenses to misdemeanors unless the offender had previous violent offenses and would allow for the resentencing of those currently in prison. A “Safe Neighborhoods and Schools” fund would be created with savings from the implementation.

PROPOSITION 48 Allows for agreements with two Native American tribes to build and operate a casino in the Central Valley, off of tribal reservations. www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Keep Ex Out of Early Date Conversations Dwelling on previous relationships is never a good sign

T

his week, a friend in her late 50s came to my Dana Point deli and asked for my opinion about a situation she’s encountered with a man she recently met online. She said, “He seems nice, but on the three dates we’ve had together, he has mentioned his ex-wife’s name at least 50 times.

“And, when I am talking or making a comment, before I have finished my point, he interrupts and will start on an entirely new subject. Is this normal?”

She said she has been reluctant to mention these two points to him, not wanting to hurt his feelings and perhaps jeopardize the relationship.

I told her that maybe the guy is just nervous, and doesn’t know what else to talk about. Or, perhaps he is a poor conversationalist or too into himself. A male friend of mine who has ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) suggested the man may have that. Whatever the case, the man likely is unaware he is doing these things. I told my deli friend if she wants a relationship with him, she needs to bring this to his attention.

I can relate to how she feels. I dated a widow who often mentioned her deceased husband. “George did this or George did that,” she’d frequently say. At times, she called me “George.” I empathized with her and didn’t mention this for quite some time. But being called “George” reminded me of a song that Jesse Colter—the widow of the late Waylon Jennings—made popular in 1975, titled, “I’m not Lisa.”

The song’s beginning: “I’m not Lisa.

“My name is Julie.

“Lisa left you years ago.”

I finally worked up the nerve to tell the widow that she was mentioning George too much. After the talk, although I wasn’t

George as often, I was still George often enough. When she introduced me to friends a few times as George, I moved on.

One of the problems with someone talking too much about his or her ex is it makes the new person feel unimportant or second best. For a new relationship to thrive, each person needs to make the other a high priority because each person wants to feel special. He may not have that capability.

When a person is constantly reminded of a new beau’s ex, it sends a message that the new beau hasn’t healed or gotten over the ex. It’s likely too soon for that person to be dating.

My deli friend needs to ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 talk with the guy. I hope

By Tom Blake she doesn’t judge him too soon before he’s had a chance to think about it and change. He might turn out to be a good match for her.

Still, her name isn’t Lisa.

The last Age 50-plus singles Meet and Greet for 2014 is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 30, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. Carl the DJ will be spinning the oldies. Halloween costumes optional. For information, contact Tom at 949.248.9008. www.tutorandspunkys.com.

Tom Blake is a San Clemente resident and Dana Point business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating.

To comment: 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

This courtesy rendering shows and example of the lighting displays to be included in the IlluminOcean exhibit.

An Illuminating Experience The 40th annual Boat Parade of Lights, all new IlluminOcean display to light up the Harbor for the holidays DANA POINT TIMES

T

he resorts of Dana Point will debut IlluminOcean—40 days of holiday lights at the Dana Point Harbor, 34555 Golden Lantern, from Nov. 26 through Jan. 4.

Each night at 5 p.m. visitors will be treated to a dazzling array of lighted sculptures including 22 large-scale ocean inspired displays, light tunnels stretching longer than a football field and 23 miles of glowing LED strands. Visitors will even be able to walk through the belly of a 40-foot blue whale.

On weekends there will be roaming street performers, glow merchandise and “Whale Eyes” 3D glasses that give the lights a holographic look.

A percentage of merchandise sales will go to support ecological and conservation organizations whose efforts are focused on enhancing the oceanic environment.

The event is free.

On the water, the Dana Point Harbor

will be presenting the 40th annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights on Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 7:30 p.m.

The theme this year, FantaSea, celebrates the rich maritime and ocean history of Dana Point.

Boaters from all over Orange County are invited to join the parade and contest to vie for awards of Judges’ Choice, Best Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation, Most Colorful, Most Original, Best Sailboat, Best Powerboat and the Perpetual Trophy for Yacht Club with the Most Entries. There will be new awards and cash prizes.

To enter your boat in the parade contact info@danapointharbor.com or pick up an entry form at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern in the Harbor. Entries will also be taken online, after Oct. 31, at www.danapointharbor.com.

The parade can be viewed for free anywhere in the Harbor. DP

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 October 24-30 , 2014

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

Page 23

www.danapointtimes.com

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

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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

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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

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

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BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!

PET GROOMING

Dawgy Style

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, 949.496.3315, www.alphadoggroomshop.com

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing

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POOL SERVICE & REPAIR

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LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back

449 Avenida Crespi, 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

LOCKSMITH

Dana Point Lock & Security

949.496.6916, www.danapointlock.com

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

PSYCHOTHERAPY 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

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View online at www.danapointtimes.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@ thecapistranodispatch.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FITNESS EQUIPMENT PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $175.

949.533.9761

GARAGE SALES CAPO BEACH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Multi home community sale with participating homes on Via Catalina, Via Verde, Via California, Camino Capistrano, and the lower part of Via Sacramento. Sale 7am-1pm. 10/25 GARAGE SALE 2319 Ave. Marejada, San Clemente, CA 92673. Saturday 10/25/14. 6 am to 12 pm

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com Deadline 5 p.m. Monday. No phone calls please.

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

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

949.388.7700 ext. 102

Dana Point Times October 24–30, 2014

Page 25

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dana Hills Volleyball Wins IBVL Championship

Local Angler Lands Rare Catch

DANA POINT TIMES

T

he Dana Hills boys beach volleyball team bested the field at the Interscholastic Beach Volleyball League Championship tournament on Oct. 11, claiming the Southern Pacific title.

The Dolphins got to the postseason by finishing the Orange League with a perfect 8-0 record. At the Southern Pacific Championship tournament in Santa Monica, the Dolphins toppled Palos Verde in the quarterfinals, Redondo Union in the semifinals and Mira Costa in the championship match.

The Dana Hills boys beach volleyball team

DANA POINT TIMES

O

n Oct. 16, San Clemente’s Jake Graff caught a 36-pound wahoo aboard the San Mateo out of Dana Point Harbor. According to Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, Graff’s wahoo was the first ever caught aboard one of the company’s boats. Graff used 60-pound test to reel in the rare trophy fish. DP

San Clemente’s Jake Graff poses with a 36-pound wahoo that he caught on Oct. 16. Courtesy photo

Dolphin Report For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the Dana Hills High School fall sports programs, follow us on Twitter @ SouthOCsports.

Dolphins Volleyball Readies for Tritons

Dolphins Set for Tough Test With Tesoro

Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

includes: Teddy Fitzgerald, Grady Yould, Nick Karnazes, Lake Lorscheider, Garrett Jackson, Jake Freeman, Grant Marocchi, Nathan Simpson and Mark Stapley. DP high seven goals. Senior Marko Asic notched five with two assists in the crucial nonleague win.

Dana Hills trailed Los Osos 11-9 heading into the fourth quarter. The Dolphins (11-8, 5-0) outscored Los Osos 7-3 in the final frame.

Williams led the way again in the Dolphins win over the Diablos. He had a team-high five goals, two assists and four steals. Goalie Riley Zachary had 12 saves.

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

The Dana Hills football team started off their South Coast League campaign with an opening game against Mission Viejo on Oct. 10. The Dolphins (1-6, 0-1 league) hung with the Diablos in the first quarter and entered the second tied 0-0. But that was the closest Dana Hills would remain to Mission Viejo the rest of the night, as the first-place Diablos offense woke up and cruised to a 34-7 victory.

The Dolphins will have another difficult task at hand when they travel to play Tesoro on Oct. 24.

Tesoro (6-2, 1-1) enters the week ranked third in the CIF-SS West Valley Division and is coming off a disappointing lategame loss to Mission Viejo.

The Titans are led by quarterback Devon Modster, running back Anthony Battista, receiver Jake Smeltzer and a quick, hard-hitting defense.

The Dolphins had three players record pass attempts in the loss to Mission Viejo two weeks ago. Junior Brandon Rogers completed 7 of 14 pass attempts for 102 yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions. Senior Cole Wilber, who has been the Dolphins starter this season, completed 12 of 18 for 104 yards and senior Jay Schuyler attempted two throws.

The Dana Hills beach volleyball team won the IBCVL Southern Pacific Championship. Courtesy photo

Running back Brian Scott, seen here running against Garfield, and the Dana Hills football team will travel to play Tesoro on Oct. 24. Photo: Alan Gibby, zone57

The Dolphins defensive front seven will have their hands full with Battista, who has been the Titans workhorse this season, and Modster, a dual-threat quarterback. In Tesoro’s last game against Mission Viejo, the two accounted for 146 yards rushing and one touchdown.

finished one second apart from each other. Senior Alex Smith placed 22nd and freshman Jack Landgraf placed 31st.

As a team, the girls finished with the second fastest team time of the 73-team field. The boys posted the third fastest time of their 77-team field.

Dolphins X-C Teams Take Third at OC Championships

Dolphins Water Polo Out in Front

The Dana Hills boys and girls cross country teams each notched third-place finishes at the Orange County Championships at Irvine Regional Park on Oct. 18.

Junior Sienna Serrao and sophomore Kathryn Kaloroumakis finished fi fth and sixth, respectively, in the varsity sweepstakes race.

The boys team was led by juniors Mason Coppi and Jake Ogden, who finished second and third, respectively in the varsity sweepstakes. Coppi and Ogden

A convincing 20-10 win over Mission Viejo on Oct. 21 solidified the Dana Hills boys water polo status as the first-place team in league and the No. 2 ranked team in CIF-SS Division 2 this week.

The Dolphins made the jump up in the CIF-SS rankings following wins over San Clemente (Oct. 14) and Los Osos (Oct. 17).

In the game against Los Osos, the No. 3 ranked team in Division 2, Dana Hills’ junior Bennett Williams scored a team-

Page 26

The last time the Dana Hills and San Clemente girls volleyball teams squared off, it ended with a five-set victory for the Dolphins. The two teams, who are jostling for second place in the South Coast League, will play again on the Dolphins home court Oct. 29.

Dana Hills was set to host Capistrano Valley at home on Oct. 23. Results were not available at press time. The Cougars swept the Dolphins on Oct. 7.

Dolphins End Regular Season on a High Note The Dana Hills girls golf team closed out their regular season with a 203-211 win over rival Tesoro at El Niguel Country Club on Oct. 16.

The two teams played a match two days earlier, a 199-202 Tesoro victory, at Tijeras Creek Golf Club.

In the final match of the regular season, the Dolphins’ Tori Hummel earned match medalist honors after carding a 37 (+1) on the front nine at El Niguel. Sophomore Joan Soewondo shot 39 (+3) to help seal the win for Dana Hills.

The South Coast League finals were set to take place Oct. 20-21. Results were not available at press time. www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

GROM OF THE WEEK

IZZY HOPKINS

RESULTS First-place and local finishers only. For full results, see www.danapointtimes.com. KEY: SC=San Clemente, DP=Dana Point, SJC=San Juan Capistrano NSSA Explorer, Southwest Conference, Event No. 5, Oct. 8, Carlsbad State Beach, Ponto MEN: 1. Jacob Szekely, La Jolla; 3. Jeremy Dugan, SC. JUNIORS: 1. Jake Marshall, Encinitas; 4. Liam Gloyd, SC. BOYS: 1. Kade Matson, SC. MENEHUNE: 1. Jett Schilling, SC; 2. Kade Matson, SC. SUPER GROMS: 1. Cole McCaffray, Cardiff; 2. Brayden Burch, SC; 3. Ryder Fish, SC; 6.

Dane Matson, SC. WOMEN: 1. Vahine Fierro, Tahiti; 3.

Samantha Sibley, SC; 4. Allie Frost, SJC. GIRLS: 1. Bethany Zelasko, DP; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC; 4. Cameron Duby, SJC; 5. Kirra Pinkerton, SC. SENIORS: 1. Trevor Nielson, San Diego. SUPER SENIORS: 1. Jeff Leverette, Vista.

DUKE: 1. Rick Fignetti, Huntington Beach; 3. Kyle Twitchell, SC. WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Izzy Hopkins, DP. NSSA Explorer, Southwest Conference, Event No. 6, Oct. 19, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach

Izzy Hopkins. Photo: Jack McDaniel

Age: 12, Laurel Springs School The Doheny Longboard Surfing Association surf team earned a third-place finish at the Swamis Return to the Reef Club Contest, Oct. 18-19 at Cardiff Reef. Photo: Sabrina Pearcy

Surfing Superiority at Swamis DLSA surf team earns a spot in the top three at Swamis

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he Swamis Return to the Reef contest is a highlight of the Club Coalition contest series each year, not only for the fun and camaraderie present but also for the Cardiff Reef venue. At this year’s event, Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18 and 19, the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association team brought home a thirdplace finish, up two places from last year.

With a wind swell hitting from the west, the waves on Saturday were on the small side. On Sunday they picked up, delivering overhead sets and fantastic conditions for the finals.

“We were super happy with our performance as a team. In individual competition, I was looking for a repeat of last year when I trophied. I was bummed I didn’t make the finals but my boyfriend Charlie Zyvoloski trophied in the 60-69 division, so I was stoked about that ,” said Sabrina Pearcy, a San Clemente resident and DLSA team member of seven years.

Other finalists in individual competition included a win for Mark and Debbie Gale in the tandem division, along with secondplace honors for Hallie Rohr and Ben Cardoza, third-place for Daniel Williams and Josh Rapoza, Mark Calkins and Zyvoloski in fourth, and sixth-place finishes for Kyle Perez, RJ Hervey, Rubio Smith, Steve Stirrett and Mark Gale, in their respective divisions.

Pearcy said the team looks forward to competing at Cardiff Reef each year.

“It’s a really good spot and we always Dana Point Times October 24-30, 2014

TEAM RESULTS 1. WindanSea Surf Club 2. Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club 3. Doheny Longboard Surfing Association 4. Swamis Surfing Association 5. Long Beach Surf Club 6. Pacific Beach Surf Club 7. Cardiff Reef Surf Club 8. Malibu Boardriders Club 9. La Jolla Shores Surfing Association 10. Malibu Surfing Association 11. Coronado Longbarding Surfing Association 12. Huntington Beach Longboard Crew 13. Sunset Cliffs Surfing Association 14. Ventura Surf Club 15. Big Stick Surfing Association. love going down there,” she said. “ It’s cool too that during the course of the weekend the people we meet always have kind words to say about our team and seem to be impressed by what a fun and tight-knit group we have.”

Next, the team will head to the Tourmaline Club Challenge in November, followed by the DLSA’s big event, the Gathering of the Tribes at Church Beach, coming up in January 2015 For more information, visit www. dohenylongboardsurfingassociation.org.

DP Page 30

Izzy Hopkins moved to Dana Point a little over a year ago and began surfing at that time. Since relocating from Redlands, Izzy has been fiercely dedicated to progressing in the sport she has come to love. She got her start at a Girl in the Curl surf camp and since then surfing has become a passion.

“Mary (Hartmann) pushed me into my first wave and I stood up and loved it,” Izzy said. “I rode it all the way to the beach and I was so excited I was screaming.”

Since catching the surf bug, she has been competing as much as possible— in WSA, NSSA and Soul Surf competitions—and training three times a week with the Soul Surf team.

“Competing is super fun, to try your best and see how well you do. It’s helped me improve a lot,” she said. “I really want to be a pro surfer, see how far I can take it and be the best surfer I can be.”

A former competitive swimmer, she is also thinking about going back to that sport in order to improve her paddling power.

In school Izzy is a college-bound, straight-A seventh-grader who dreams of going to law school.

“I want to become a criminal prosecutor because I want to make sure our community is safe and make sure that the people who are doing harmful things are put away in prison,” she said.

Besides surfing, she also enjoys skateboarding and drawing.

“Surfing is my all-time favorite thing to do though,” Izzy said. “I like the adrenaline rush you get when you catch a wave and how it just feels really peaceful being in the ocean.”

—Andrea Swayne

MEN: 1. Jacob Szekely, La Jolla; 3. Jeremy Dugan, SC. JUNIORS: 1. Jordan Collins, Carlsbad; 2. Lucas Taub, DP; 3. Liam Gloyd, SC. BOYS: 1. Jett Schilling, SC; 3. Kade Matson, SC. MENEHUNE: 1. Kade Matson, SC; 2. Jett Schilling, SC. SUPER GROMS: 1. Hayden Rogers, Laguna Beach; 2. Brayden Burch, SC. WOMEN: 1. Vahine Fierro, Tahiti; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC; 3. Allie Frost, SJC; 4.

Cameron Duby, SJC. GIRLS: 1. Bethany Zelasko, DP; 2.

Samantha Sibley, SC; 4. Kirra Pinkerton, SC; 6. Cameron Duby, SJC. SENIORS: 1. Trevor Nielsen, San Diego.

SUPER SENIORS: 1. Jeff Leverette, Vista. DUKE: 1. Patrick Schlick, Leucadia; 4. Kyle Twitchell, SC. LONGBOARD: 1.

Jaric Fink, SC. WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Izzy Hopkins, DP; 2. Malia Mauch, SC. KNEEBOARD: 1. Mike Fernandez, Huntington Beach.

San Clemente SeaFest Surf Contest, October 5, San Clemente, Pier BOYS/GIRLS 8U: 1. Ben Brantell; 2. Justin Vesque; 3.

Hana Johnson; 4. Alexander Fuller. BOYS/GIRLS 10U: 1.

Kevin Kraatz; 2. Brayden Burch; 3. Myles Biggs; 4. Bane Corbett; 5. Niko Ripley; 6. Carson Kropfl. BOYS 12U: 1.

Hagan Johnson; 2. Jimmy Wynne; 3. Hayden Millerick; 4. Brayden Burch; 5. Jack Hopkins; 6. Liam Mateer. BOYS 15U: 1. Hagan Johnson; 2. David Economos; 3. Noah Atwood; 4. Sean Carroll; 5. Cole Thompson; 6. Liam Mateer. OPEN BOYS: 1. Hagan Johnson; 2. Noah Atwood; 3. David Economos; 4. Kolton Sullivan; 5. Sean Carroll; 6.

Matt Economos. OPEN GIRLS: 1. Zoe Mortensen. FAMILY: 1. Johnson family; 2. Vesque family; 3. Mateer family.

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 68-70 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 10-15’ fair Immediate: Modest WNW swell holds, while a new/small SW swell slowly builds in. Most spots throughout the region will see surf around waist high or less, while the standout spots (especially good combo exposed beachbreaks) produce occasional sets/peaks up to chest high. Look for calm to light/variable wind in the mornings, along with a marine layer and patchy fog in some areas. Then a moderate onshore westerly seabreeze will gradually develop in the afternoons, with skies becoming mostly clear/sunny.

Longer Range Outlook: More of the same small-scale mix of WNW-NW and SW swells will continue for the weekend and into next week. Check out Surfline for more details.

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