December 5, 2014 by Dana Point Times

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December 5â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11, 2014 YO U

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INSIDE: Holiday Happenings & Gift Guide PAGE 5 VOLUME 7, ISSUE 49

Serving a City Steven Weinberg on his highlights from more than a decade of public life E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

As Steven Weinberg terms out of City Council, he looks forward to spending more time with family, cycling and staying involved in the Dana Point Grand Prix. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Carlos Olvera Elected Mayor as New Council Organizes EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Thousands Run the Always Colorful Dana Point Turkey Trot DP LIVING/PAGE 23

Special Section: South County Real Estate Guide PAGE 13

POLLING IS UNDER WAY: 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...

the Dana Point Youth Board is accepting entries for its Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Decorative submissions will be judged by Youth Board members on creativity, originality, enthusiasm and use of lighting and décor. Awards will be given to the first, second and third place homes. Dana Point residents interested in submitting an application need to send their entry forms to City Hall by 5:30 p.m., Dec. 10, located at 33282 Golden Lantern St. Suite 203. Entries can also be faxed to 949.248.9920. There is no fee to enter your home in the contest.

Five things Dana Point should know this week Olvera Chosen as Mayor in Council Reorganization THE LATEST: After swearing in three new members to the Dana Point City Council on Tuesday, the five-member body chose Councilman Carlos Olvera to serve as mayor for 2015. The three open seats on the dais were vacated by 2014 Mayor Lisa Bartlett, who was recently elected as the Orange County Fifth District Supervisor; Bill Brough, who was elected to the 73rd District Assembly seat and Steven Weinberg, who termed out after eight years on the council. Brough and Bartlett, having already been sworn into their new offices, were therefore not allowed to sit on the dais for the reorganization. Bartlett, did however, attend the meeting and she and Weinberg—mayor pro tem for 2014—delivered and accepted honors and proclamations to and from each other on the final night of their respective eight years serving on the Dana Point City Council. The two also received official thanks from associated commissions, state and county elected officials. Joining Councilmen Carlos Olvera and Scott Schoeffel are newly-elected Councilmen Joe Muller, Richard Viczorek and John Tomlinson. Tomlinson was chosen to serve as mayor pro tem for the coming year. WHAT’S NEXT: City Council meetings are held on the first and third Tuesdays of every month, beginning at 6 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern. However, due to the upcoming holidays, the next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20. FIND OUT MORE: For meeting schedules and agendas, log on to the city website at www.danapoint.org. —Andrea Swayne

Orcas, Humpback Impress Over Thanksgiving Weekend THE LATEST: Dana Point lived up to its title of “Whale Capital of the West” over Thanksgiving weekend. A family of orcas was spotted a couple miles from Dana Point on Thanksgiving Day, and an active young humpback whale was seen breachDana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

Former mayor and newly elected Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett swore in new Councilmen Richard Viczorek, John Tomlinson and Joe Muller at the Dana Point City Council meeting on Tuesday. Photo: Andrea Swayne

ing near Laguna Beach. Capt. Frank Brennan of Dana Wharf Whale Watching spotted the Killer Whale pod on Thanksgiving, about two miles out of the harbor. Brennan said the two adults and two juvenile whales were near a continental shelf. He said the orcas were feeding near the edge of the shelf and diving deep, likely to feed on rockfish or giant squid. “That’s kind of rare for around here,” Brennan said of the orca clan. “It’s been about two years since I saw them last.” Brennan said the orcas, known as the CA51 family, are from Mexico. Dana Point is about as far north as they travel. Later in the weekend, a juvenile humpback whale was spotted close to the Laguna Beach shore. The young whale breached 30 times, and at one point launched completely out of the water. It was during Capt. Tom White’s Saturday morning excursion aboard the Dana Pride that whale watchers were treated to the breaching sequence. WHAT’S NEXT: Capt. Dave Anderson, of Capt. Dave’s Whale Watching & Dolphin Safari in Dana Point, said this year has been an extraordinary one for whale watching. Sperm whales, pilot whales and gray whales are just a few of the species Anderson has spotted, and he said he’s seen more humpback whales than ever. Many mothers and calves have also been swimming closer to the shore, he said. –Allison Jarrell

WHAT’S NEXT: Bartlett and Brough’s election resulted in a large shakeup on the Dana Point City Council. New councilmen Richard Viczorek, John Tomlinson and Jim Muller have taken Bartlett, Brough and Steven Weinberg’s places on the Dana Point City Council. –AJ

Brough, Bartlett Sworn in to Higher Offices THE LATEST: Former Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett was officially sworn in as Orange County Fifth District Supervisor

on Tuesday. Former Dana Point Councilman Bill Brough was also sworn in, as a member of the 73rd Assembly District. Both districts cover San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano as well as Dana Point. “I am honored to begin this journey and look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors to continue making Orange County an efficient, fiscally responsible, and safe place to live, work, and travel,” said Supervisor Bartlett. Bartlett replaces termed-out Supervisor Pat Bates, who was elected to California State Senate. Bartlett served as mayor and councilmember in Dana Point for two terms. Brough operates his own government affairs consulting business and served one term on the Dana Point City Council before joining the Assembly. Brough said he’s looking forward to further supporting Orange County businesses and taxpayers. “I’m honored that the voters put their confidence in me to represent them in Sacramento,” Brough said

15th Annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest Begins THE LATEST: Each December, festive Dana Point residents enjoy transforming their homes into displays of holiday cheer, and this season marks the 15th year

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WHATS NEXT: The Youth Board will judge entries on Dec. 18 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Entry forms can be found on the city’s website at www.danapoint.org/youthboard. Residents with questions can call 949.248.3512 for more information. –AJ

San Clemente Council Passes Resolution Opposing Hospital Closure THE LATEST: Though it may not have an impact on the final decision, the San Clemente City Council voted Tuesday to oppose a proposal by MemorialCare to convert its San Clemente hospital—Dana Point’s nearest hospital and emergency room—campus into an advanced urgent care center. The resolution, which was brought before the city’s ad-hoc Hospital Advisory Committee last month, asks MemorialCare to delay any decision on Saddleback Memorial Medical Center’s future until the city could guarantee emergency room services be continued, in some form, or public safety could be assured. Dialogue between the council, hospital administrator Tony Struthers and members of the public showed there were disagreements over facts in the proposal, specifically, the amount of time emergency transport could take to get residents to other area hospitals if the San Clemente emergency room closed. WHAT’S NEXT: The hospital’s board is scheduled to vote on the proposal in March. A final meeting of the city’s hospital committee will be held Wednesday, Dec. 17 at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.danapointtimes.com. –Jim Shilander

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about? ••• Send your suggestions to editorial@danapointtimes.com. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Serving a City Steven Weinberg talks about his road to city government, time as a planning commissioner and city councilman BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

teven Weinberg had no interest in city government until a proposed move by the City Council in 2002 irked him into action. “After the election that year the City Council tried to take the name off of the Harry Otsubo Community Gardens and make it something generic,” Weinberg said. “I had gotten to know Harry real well and a bunch of other gardeners and I thought a change was totally inappropriate. I told the council if they really wanted to take the name off, the least they could do would be to wait until the guy is no longer with us. But even that thought was unacceptable to me.” A short time later, he met City Manager Doug Chotkevys at the garden and the idea to run for office was sparked. “We got to talking about the garden name and he said, “Steven, if you don’t like it why don’t you apply to be on the Planning Commission,’” Weinberg said. “My response was something like, ‘No … way!’ But he convinced me to apply. I interviewed for the position and lo and behold, I got a call from then-Mayor Bill Ossenmacher saying I was in.” The garden’s name was preserved. Fast forward a few years. On Oct. 25, 2010, City Council replaced their usual closed session before the regular meeting with a field trip to the garden and its adjacent park gazebo, to rededicate it and recognize its namesake, Harry Otsubo, for his contributions to the community of Dana Point. Weinberg, as mayor for 2010, did the honors, unveiling two plaques installed at the park gazebo in honor of Otsubo. From a four-year stint as a planning commissioner to eight as city councilman—including a second term as mayor in 2013—Weinberg has spent a total of 12 years serving the residents of Dana Point. Tuesday’s city council meeting marked his last day as a councilman, terming out after serving two consecutive four-year terms. During his final meeting as 2014 mayor pro tem, Weinberg chose his words carefully, calling it his last time “for a while” addressing the public as a city official. Later, when asked if that meant he would be running again after waiting the two years required after terming out, he said only that he is “keeping his options open.” COMMISSIONER TO COUNCILMAN While on the Planning Commission, Weinberg was also a member of the Town

Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

Former City Councilman Steven Weinberg enjoys the day at the 2011Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling, one of his proudest accomplishments as a city official. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Center Subcommittee, formed to put together a plan for revitalization of the downtown area. During his third year on the commission, Chotkevys made another suggestion to Weinberg—running for City Council. “I gave him roughly the same response that time too,” Weinberg said. “I told him I wouldn’t run but that I would support Russ Chilton, who was just ending his first term on the council. When Russ decided not to run in 2006, I threw my hat in the ring.” Weinberg had major back surgery in August of that year and wasn’t able to start campaigning until October. “It was pretty late in the season but I got lucky and came in second,” he said. “Wanting to see the Town Center Plan come to fruition was one of my main reasons for running.” The recession hit soon after, city revenue decreased, programs were cut and Dana Point didn’t have the cash to start the Town Center project, he said. “On one side, it was frustrating,” he said. “But not moving ahead made total sense from a fiscal standpoint.” Weinberg’s goal throughout his years on the council has always been to stay fiscally responsible while still serving the citizens and visitors the best in “five-star” services. “I think we’ve done it in spades and I have no regrets for any decisions or votes I’ve made,” he said. “I tried to not take myself too seriously but to be very serious about city business at the same time. It’s been a blast. We got a lot of good things done. We had no food fights on the dais and it has all been very civil and respectful. I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

THE ROAD TO DANA POINT Weinberg grew up in California’s central valley in a town called Fowler, just south of Fresno. After graduating from high school, he served in the Coast Guard for four years. “I am one of these people you might call a late bloomer,” he said. “I wasn’t ready for college after high school. I didn’t have the grades, mainly because I hadn’t really applied myself. After returning from the Coast Guard, he was ready and went to college, first at Sacramento City College, then later transferring to UC Davis where he graduated as an electrical engineer. He married his wife Carole during his last year of college and together they made many moves around the country as his career led him. Jobs from engineering to technology sales and marketing led the growing family—welcoming three daughters to the family, each born in a different state—to homes in Minnesota, Michigan, New York, Wisconsin and Illinois. In 1987, a computer distribution company, Ingram Micro, brought Weinberg back to California to set up their high-end tech products division. Now living in Dana Point, Weinberg found out about a new company starting up in Fountain Valley, Kingston Technology, where he was hired as a vice president of sales. Since retiring, he has done some consulting work in computer industry sales and marketing until his focus turned to city government after the Harry Otsubo Community Garden issue “got his goat” in 2002.

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HIGHLIGHTS With the Town Center/Lantern District project underway, Weinberg said it is one of the things he’s most proud of being involved with as a commissioner and councilman. “It’s gratifying to see that we are now getting developers coming to town that actually want to build something,” he said. “Another thing I’m proud of is how we have left the city more fiscally sound than we found it—providing more services and events than when we started.” Another highlight, he said, was the creation of the Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling, an event that has become nationally recognized as one of the premier cycling events in the country. “About nine years ago I was at cofounder Roger Worthington’s house for an event and noticed a flagpole with some interesting flags on it that he said were for his bicycle racing team,” Weinberg said. “Roger told me he had held a Grand Prix in San Clemente and asked me why Dana Point wouldn’t let him have it here. I told him I had no idea but that I would make it happen. Truth be told, I had no idea how to make it happen, but about six months, later we held our first Grand Prix in Dana Point.” Worthington and Weinberg formed the Dana Point Cycling Foundation in 2005 as a nonprofit to run the event and handle sponsorships. The first event was held in 2006. GOING FORWARD Weinberg is happy to be getting more free time that will allow him to spend more time with family. “I am going to play with my grandkids, take time with my daughters and their spouses and spend more time with my wife,” Weinberg said. “The latter being most important—you don’t make it 45-plus years together by not balancing your time between who and what is important to you.” As a council member, a large amount of time is spent serving on other commissions, such as his post as the city’s representative to the Orange County Fire Authority, which often required his attention four days a week. Time is also a reason, he said, he has no desire to run for higher office. He now plans to devote more time to his favorite hobby, bicycling twice a week to the tune of 40 miles total, and continuing his work with the Grand Prix. He also intends to return to where his interest in city government started—working his plot at the community garden. Another important obligation, he said, is churning out six to eight pints a week of his homemade hot sauce to friends. “I make a mean habanero hot sauce that has become popular among my friends,” he said. “They count on me for about a pint a week and I doubt they’ll ever let me off the hook.” We tried to pull the recipe from him but he refused to divulge his secrets. “Let the people bug me if they want some,” he said. DP www.danapointtimes.com

PRAYER BRACELET $15

CUSTOM PILLOW $99

IRON LAYING MERMAID $19.99

Bella Bazaar 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy. Dana Point, CA 92629 949.429.6200 bellabazaar.com

VANCE KATIRA CANDLES $7.99 and up

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP $150 Initiation Fee / $50 Monthly Food & Beverage Minimum

GOLF MEMBERSHIP $500 - $1,500 Initiation Fee $175 - $500 Monthly Dues No Cart Fees

Bella Collina San Clemente 200 Avenida La Pata San Clemente, CA 92672 949.333.4830 bellacollinasanclemente.com

Bella Collina San Clemente 200 Avenida La Pata San Clemente. CA 92672 949.333.4830 bellacollinasanclemente.com

STAND UP PADDLE BOARD, INCLUDES PADDLE AND FINS $650

WHEELE SURFBOARD BIKE RACKS Prices Start at $229

30 DAYS UNLIMITED YOGA $30 â&#x20AC;˘ Save $15 Holiday Sale normally $45

Outrigger Surf 24302 Del Prado, Dana Point, CA 92629 949.388.7722 outriggersurf.com

Stewart Surfshop 2102 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA 92672 1.800.265.8882 stewartsurfboards.com

Sun Salute Yoga 24582 Del Prado, #G, Dana Point, CA 92629 949.371.6097 sunsaluteyoga.com

Bella Bazaar 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy. Dana Point, CA 92629 949.429.6200 bellabazaar.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY STEVE SOHANAKI

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

Monday, December 1 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Quail Run, 25600 Block (4:55 p.m.) A man wearing a red hat, black pants and a pink bra was wandering around the complex talking to himself. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Street of the Ruby Lantern (3:29 p.m.) A man was seen walking with what appeared to be a pistol in his waistband. He was described as being in his 20s, medium build, bald and wearing a black hoodie, green shorts and black socks.

Sunday, November 30 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Del Ray, 35400 Block (8:32 p.m.) While a woman was emptying trash outside, a man emerged from his hiding spot and ran after her. She managed to run back to the facility and alert two male nurses who went outside to look for the man. They were unable to find him. CITIZEN ASSIST La Plaza, 34100 Block (7:08 p.m.) A man outside of Hennessey’s Tavern said he needed to talk to a deputy because he was being harassed by area residents for “just being himself.” He also said the deputies should help him get out of town. TRESPASSING Doheny Park Road, 34200 Block (4:05 p.m.) A woman working at Doheny Clothing Exchange told police there was a man in the store who was making her feel very uncomfortable. He wasn’t responding when she told him to leave, she said. DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 34200 Block (3:06 p.m.) A man in his 60s with white hair, a white and green sweater and gray pants, was forced to leave The Surfin Cowboy after causing problems. He later returned to the bar and tried to get back in. BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Antigua, 0 Block (2:01 p.m.) A woman told police she saw a shadow in her house and was sure it was a burglar. Dana Point Times December 5–10, 2014

NEWS BITES

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Ritz Carlton Drive (5:45 a.m.) Two brothers were involved in a physical altercation with each other. There was a lot of yelling and screaming and one brother might have hit the other one with a vehicle, the caller said.

COMPILED BY JACQUELINE DEMARCO AND ANDREA SWAYNE

City Makes a Call to Artists

DISTURBANCE Street of the Violet Lantern, 34000 Block (5:22 a.m.) A police check was requested after a woman was heard screaming during an argument with a man. DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (5:14 a.m.) A woman complained to police about an apparently homeless woman who was hassling her for cigarettes and may have stolen her driver’s license and gift card a few days prior. DISTURBANCE Via Verde, 34400 Block (2:04 a.m.) A man said his girlfriend was “going crazy” and choking him. DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street, 34200 Block 2:03 a.m.) A very aggressive man, who was possibly drinking, was yelling at an employee and refusing to leave.

The City of Dana Point Arts and Culture Commission is looking for regional artists who work in all media to participate in an upcoming art exhibit. The exhibit, which is scheduled to open Jan. 2015, will be located in the foyer of the Dana Point City Council Chambers. In order to qualify, entries must be two-dimensional pieces of original art that do not exceed 21 inches by 28 inches, or three-dimensional works not to exceed 20 inches by 20 inches by 32 inches. The Arts and Culture Commission will select artwork at the Jan. 21, 2015 meeting. Submit six images (maximum size per e-mail is 10MB) and a short biography to Monique Leon at mleaon@danapoint. org. For more information, contact Leon at 949.248.3557. The deadline to submit is Friday, Jan. 9 at 5 p.m.

WELFARE CHECK Unknown Location (1:54 a.m.) A man driving a dark gray Toyota Prius with the hazards on almost hit a pedestrian and continued driving on.

Clerk Office Staying Open for Once a Century Event

Saturday, November 29 DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34700 Block (11:38 p.m.) Police received a call about a group of people that may or may not have been involved in a fight. DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Vista Sole Street, 0 Block (11:20 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a party with loud music. PATROL CHECK Amber Lantern Street/Pacific Coast Highway (11:04 p.m.) A caller told police there were blond twins out in front of Circle K riding skateboards and that “Danny Boy” was “tweaking.” DISTURBANCE Mariana Drive, 33700 Block (9:46 p.m.) A woman complained to police that her neighbors were walking on her roof and being loud. DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Vis Sole Street, 0 Block (8:32 p.m.) Police received a complaint about a loud party that possibly involved underage drinking. WELFARE CHECK La Plaza, 24600 Block (6:24 p.m.) A welfare check was requested by a caller who informed police about a seemingly disoriented woman who said she had fallen three times and needed help.

Thursday, November 27 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Del Obispo Street/Pacific Coast Highway (5:58 a.m.) A naked man was seen running southbound on PCH. He appeared to be cold.

The Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department will open its offices in Fullerton, Laguna Hills and the Old County Courthouse on Saturday Dec. 13, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as the date represents the last time this century in which the day, month and year are consecutive numbers—12/13/14. The Old County Courthouse will be offering marriage licenses, civil marriage ceremonies and passport application services only. Copies of property records and birth, death and marriage certificates will be available at the Fullerton and Laguna Hills branch offices, as well as obtaining marriage licenses and civil marriage ceremonies. The Laguna Hills branch office will also be offering passport application services. Free parking will be available at all three locations. Appointments for marriage ceremonies are recommended due to the expected demand for this service. To save time, marriage license, ceremony and passport applications can be completed in advance online at www.ocrecorder.com. As an added convenience, passport photos are available on the spot for $15.

Pajama Day for Charity Friday at CUSD Schools Students in the Capistrano Unified School District were invited to wear their pajamas to school and bring a pair for a child in need on Friday, Dec. 5, as part of the fourth annual “Wear a Pair, Bring a New Pair Pajama Day.” Forty-nine schools and the district

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office will be collecting new pajamas for needy children, local foster care agencies, displaced families and military households. In 2013, 11,202 new pairs of pajamas were donated. The event is spearheaded by Sharon Yanuara, a fourth-grade teacher at Malcom Elementary School in Laguna Niguel in conjunction with “PJs from Heaven,” a nonprofit organization she created in the memory of her late son, Tom, an LAPD officer who was killed in an off-duty accident in 2006. For more information or to make a donation, e-mail Pjsfromheavan@gmail.com.

Ante Up for Autism Raises $365,000

Retired NFL Pro-Bowl quarterback Jim Everett, shown here with his daughter Ashley, was a special guest at this year’s Ante Up for Autism fundraiser for TACA at the St. Regis. Photo: Courtesy

The eighth annual Ante Up for Autism event, Nov. 8 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort, grossed more than $356,000 to benefit Talk About Curing Autism’s mission to educate, empower and provide support to families affected by autism, event organizers reported. Guests gambled the night away while helping families affected by autism. This event offered cocktails, a gourmet fourcourse dinner, tournament poker, a live and silent auction and tips from poker stars. Special guests included actors Jonathon Schaech, Nicky Whelan, David Marciano; retired NFL Pro-Bowl quarterback Jim Everett and pro poker players Michelle Lau, Joseph Reitman and David Mosikian, among others. “The proceeds from Ante Up for Autism will help our families who are struggling to understand the autism diagnosis,” Lisa Ackerman, TACA founder, said in a statement. “Thanks to the amazing support we received ... our families will be given hope and guidance to unlock the potential of their children. We are thrilled with the generosity of our sponsors and donors making this a record breaking year for TACA.” Last year’s event raised more than $259,000. More information is available at 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.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Community Meetings

Business Beat News from Dana Point’s business community DANA POINT TIMES

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH WATERMAN’S HARBOR RESTAURANT 34661 Golden Lantern, 949.764.3474, www.watermandp.com The city of Dana Point named Waterman’s Harbor restaurant the Business of the Month for November at the Nov. 18 city council meeting. Owned by father and son, John and Damian Collins, the restaurant opened in September in the Dana Point Harbor. Waterman’s Harbor is the pair’s third restaurant in Dana Point. In addition to Waterman’s Harbor they also own StillWater Spirits & Sounds and Sunsets Capo Beach. Waterman’s Harbor is named after the men and women who make their living from the water and was built to embody the spirit of the “waterman” through its seaside views, proximity to the docks and water-themed décor. Designed to take advantage of its seaside location, guests can enjoy sunset views or simply watch the boats go by from anywhere in the restaurant, outdoor deck, or patio. The interior décor also reflects the spirit of the waterman and features images and personal items from watermen, famous surfers, sailors and others who make their living on the water. In keeping with its seaside location, Waterman’s Harbor Chef John Cuevas created an extensive menu featuring of high-quality, sustainable seafood, including locally caught tuna, fresh uni and a state-of-the-art raw bar. In addition to locally-sourced seafood, Cuevas’ menu also features an array of meat and produce and offers guests award-winning dishes and hand-crafted cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. With numerous dining options, private rooms and outdoor seating areas,

Dana Point Nature Tour

9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. This 1.5-mile, twohour docent-led walk explores the ecology and natural history of the Headlands area. Tours occur on the first Saturday of each month. RSVP required to wqintern@danapoint.org or 949.248.3527. Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org. MONDAY, DECEMBER 8

Planning Commission Meeting Waterman’s Harbor restaurant owner Damian Collins (center) accepts Business of the Month recognition from the city and the Chamber of Commerce at the Nov. 18 City Council meeting. Shown here (L to R) are Lauralyn Loynes, chamber chairwoman; Mayor Lisa Bartlett; Collins; John Cuevas, Waterman’s director of culinary and Waterman’s General Manager Travis Francis. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Waterman’s Harbor is the ideal location for a romantic dinner for two, a family outing or large private event. —Compiled by Robert Sedita, Management Analyst, Dana Point Community Development

GIVING BACK HENNESSEY’S TAVERN 34111 La Plaza, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com On Friday Dec. 12 at 7 p.m., a fundraiser for Dana Point resident Stan Christ will be held at Hennessy’s Tavern. Christ was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. His urologist has recommended High Intensity Ultrasound as the best treatment option, but Stan Christ. Photo: Courtesy it is only available in

SDG&E Warns of Scam DANA POINT TIMES

an Diego Gas & Electric has been receiving reports from customers who were contacted by individuals misrepresenting themselves as utility employees. The imposters threatened to shut off electric and gas services unless payment was made immediately. They instruct customers to purchase pre-paid cash or credit cards and then call another phone number to give the information to the fake employees who then remove the cash value from Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

the cards. Local businesses and residential customers have been victimized. Customers who receive a call from someone posing as an SDG&E employee should hang up and call the company’s customer service line at 800.411.7343. The company provides past-due notices before service is shut off for nonpayment and does not contact customers to get financial information over the phone. Customers should not provide financial information unless they have initiated the call. DP Page 9

Canada and several Latin American and European countries. The cost runs from $20,000 to $45,000 depending on the location. The Food and Drug Administration regards the procedure as “experimental” and insurance will therefore not cover it. There will be a raffle, silent auction, drink specials and music by Chris Cram. Proceeds from the event will fund his treatment. A GoFundMe fundraising page has been set up for Christ at www.gofundme. com/gt9vik. For more information, call Jennifer at 949.355.2939. DANA POINT JET SKI & KAYAK CENTER 34671 Puerto Place, 949.661.4947, www.danapointjetski.com Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak Center is a Toys for Tots gift donation collection site. Bring a new unwrapped toy now through Dec. 19 and receive a second hour of stand-up paddling or kayaking for free. DP

6 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, www.danapoint.org. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9

Veterans’ Assistance

1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. The Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 provides free veterans’ assistance on the second Tuesday of every month at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo, 949.275.3142, www.vfwpost9934.org. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Free Rabies Vaccine

5 p.m.-7 p.m. Dana Point and San Clemente residents will receive a free rabies vaccine for their dog with the purchase of a new or renewed a license. For non-residents rabies vaccines will cost $5. DHPP and Bordetella shots are $10 each. Microchips can be registered and inserted for $15. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point. For more information, contact the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617.

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor PAY PARKING DECISION UPSETTING RANDOLPH W. JOURNITZ, Dana Point

The recent decision by the City Council to override the Planning Commission and install parking meters in the Strand parking lot really upsets me. When my family moved to Dana Point more than 10 years ago I was really impressed with the way the city treated its residents. On more than one occasion I had commented that we have many more free parking spots than metered ones and still rarely have any problem with parking in the town’s areas. So I am forced to ask these questions: • Why do we need these meters? • Does the City Council only concern themselves with sucking the last dollar from city residents? • Could the projects currently underway and those planned for the future be costing more than was promised and budgeted? • Where are the surfers and their complaints for this plan? They are still complaining about one access gate to the Strand but are silent on this one. • Why should making Dana Point be more in-line with other coastal cities be a validating reason for these meters? Can someone please tell me why the city can’t or won’t develop a plan to issue

GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

The Meaning of Reform re•form (ri fôrm), v.t. To change to a better state, form, etc.

f you’ve been paying attention, you know that immigration reform is one of America’s most sought after desires. You’ll not find a political aspirant who fails to remind the voter that reform is an uppermost priority. So the question must be asked: If virtually everyone is in agreement that such reform is a must, why does the nation, year after year, continue to wallow in turmoil over every aspect of immigration? Most likely the problem results from a Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

parking decals to their residents allowing them to park anywhere, metered or not, for free? Even though we pay taxes you could still charge for the decal which should cost no more than $1 per vehicle thereby charging only visitors for the privilege of parking in our fair town. And lastly, why does a defunct City Council feel they have a right to vote for such a change when they will never have to answer for this decision? In closing this is a prime example why lame duck sessions at any level of our government must be eliminated. Every Dana Point resident should write to tell the Council this is wrong and will not be allowed.

SMALL TOWN DANA POINT IS RUINED KENT WELTON, Dana Point

Looks like the new council members will vote to overdevelop and ruin Dana Point—all while saying they want to retain the “small-town atmosphere.” If there were any democracy here we would have a Malibu-like Measure R allowing all residents to vote on developments of a certain size, rather than allowing 3-2 votes on the council, whereby one council person effectively changes the character of the city and then leaves to run for higher office! I was also amazed that not one council candidate even mentioned the historic drought we are facing and suggested a moratorium on building permits—the responsible thing to do.

difference of opinion over what constitutes reform. Depending upon whose opinion you solicit, there are adherents to each of the following positions: • Grant blanket amnesty to all undocumented immigrants. • Prohibit any non-citizen from engaging in gainful employment. • Construct an impregnable border fence and patrol it with armed sentries. • Establish procedures which provide a path to citizenship for all illegal immigrants. • Enact laws which criminalize the hiring of any undocumented immigrant. This brings us to the crux of the matter. The definition of reform, STRAIGHT TALK specifying a change for By Al Jacobs the better, omits the fundamental ingredient: better for who? If you’re an employer who profits from a source of cheap laborers, you want no border fence to keep them out. If, instead, you’re marginally employed in a menial job at a salary just above minimum wage,

The Town Center plan changes now in process will forever alter the character of Dana Point, and not for the better. We should learn from the ruin that has beset West LA. The “traffic calming” measures and couplet design will continue to piss off local residents and merchants already unhappy with the changes. And then there are the palm trees replacing the beautiful green and yellow blossom tipu trees. Now we have brownish “trees” that will soon become telephone poles as we have seen at the north entrance to Dana Point. We now have a real mish-mash of landscaping with expensive non-native, plastic Disneyland, palm trees amidst the natural local flora and fauna. Looks fake and out of place to me. Having lived in Dana Point for 26 years I have seen how the developers have repeatedly beaten down the good sense and preferences of the vast majority of the city residents. In that vein, this new council does not give me much hope.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ danapointtimes.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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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, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell

you’ll favor any law which prohibits the inﬂux of competition. And understandably, if you’re a slum landlord with vacant apartments to fill, you’ll welcome a flood of illegals. The picture should be clear to any observant viewer. Immigration reform is a concept with no meaning whatever. Each participant in the charade harbors a vested interest and will espouse whatever nonsense supports that interest. In short: Rationality be hanged; enact rules which I find to my benefit! It’s for this reason the battle over immigration reform will go on forever. Al Jacobs, a longtime Dana Point resident and a professional investor for nearly a half century, distributes a monthly newsletter in which he shares financial knowledge and experience. It is available at www.onthemoneytrail.com. DP

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor, > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING PICKET FENCE MEDIA Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jacqueline DeMarco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent Gift Guide Illustration by avean/iStockphoto.com

Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 49. The DP Times (www. danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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

Page 10

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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

NIGHTLY THROUGH JANUARY 4 ILLUMINOCEAN HOLIDAY LIGHT SHOW 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday. 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For 40 nights the Dana Point Harbor will be lit up with holiday lighting displays including 22 large-scale ocean-inspired holiday sculptures and 23 miles of glowing LED strands. Weekends will feature street performers, glow merchandise and “Whale Eyes” 3D glasses that give the lights a holographic look. The event is free to attend and will be held through January 4. Dana Point Harbor Drive, www.mydanapoint.com/ dana-point-illuminocean.

Friday | 05 MOM MARKET 1 p.m.-7 p.m. Shop, socialize and share good vibes at the Mom Market and support businesses owned or operated by mothers. Market runs Saturday, Dec. 6 as well. Shop for holiday décor, handmade goods, clothing for women and children and more, from over 40 local vendors. Free. $5 photos with Santa. Grab a bite at the market’s gourmet food trucks. For more info, email fuelingmoms@gmail. com. 25975 Domingo Ave., Capistrano Beach. HOLIDAY IN THE HARBOR OPEN HOUSE 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. The Dana Point Harbor will be taken over with the holiday spirit. Enjoy lights, crafts, carolers, a visit with Santa and more. Free. Activities start on the grass in front of Harpoon Henry’s

at 34555 Golden Lantern. Dana Point Harbor, Mariner’s Village, Mariner’s Alley, Dana Wharf, 34642 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.496.2979, www.danapointharbor.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

FANTASEA HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Dec. 5, 6, 12 and 13. Boaters from all over Orange County parade through the Dana Point Harbor aboard boats decorated with festive lights and other displays. Entrants vie for prizes in this 40th annual event. View the parade free from anywhere in the Harbor at waters’ edge. Dana Point Harbor Drive, www.danapointharbor.com.

Saturday | 06 DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Seasonal produce, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park each Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org. MARINE MAMMAL CRUISE 10 a.m. Join the Ocean Institute aboard the 70-foot RV Sea Explorer for an opportunity to see whales, fish, dolphins, sea lions and other wildlife along the Southern California coast. $35 for adults, $22 for children 4-12. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. BOAT RIDES WITH SANTA 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Join Santa for a holiday boat ride around the harbor. The El Camino Real Women’s Club will take your photo with Santa for a donation of $3. The boat boards at the east end of the Dana Point Harbor at Dana Wharf. 34642 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.496.6177, www.danapointharbor.com. MIKE WALLACE 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com. (Cont. on page 20)

Photos: Robin Gray

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6: WINTER FESTIVAL AND TREE LIGHTING Noon-7:30 p.m. Celebrate holiday cheer at the Winter Festival. Event includes food, music the annual tree lighting and loads of holiday fun. La Plaza Park, Pacific Coast Highway just north of Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.348.3530, www.danapoint.org.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

1:30 p.m.-2 p.m. Sidney Bowen (singer, songwriter)

Noon-1 p.m. Sandii Castleberry Holiday Band

2 p.m.-2:30 p.m. The Magic of Musical Theater performance

Noon-4 p.m. Craft Faire, face painting, reindeer Noon-5 p.m. Caricature artists, carnival games ($1 per game, benefits the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley), cookie decorating ($2 per cookie, benefits DP Youth Board Adopt-a-Family program), Dana Point Police Services display, hotdogs and hamburgers (sales benefit VFW Post 9934), kids’ craft area, OC Fire Authority Spark of Love Toy Drive (bring a new unwrapped toy), petting zoo, pony rides, Santa’s Lego Village, Santa visits and real snow to play in. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. The Yuletide Carolers

2:45-3:30 p.m. Santa’s New Sleigh Marionette Show 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Dan St. Marseille Holiday Jazz Trio 4 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Francina Mans School of Dance 4:15 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Dana Hills High School Dickens Carolers 5 p.m. Tree lighting ceremony with free hot chocolate and cookies courtesy of Hennessey’s Tavern 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Holiday Movie in the Park: Miracle on 34th Street, (G), free popcorn

At the Movies: ‘Mockingjay, Part 1’ Stretched, Somewhat Unsatisfying BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

Photo: Murray Close/Lionsgate

Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

he most underwhelming, yet still most successful opening weekend of the year goes to the third installment of the Hunger Games franchise: Mockingjay, Part 1. Like most young adult series adaptations these days, the final book was cut in half to allow for the making of two films. While some blamed the bad weather around the country or the lack of promo from the studio, book fans have lamented splitting the story in two as unnecessary and disappointing. Still, the shortest of the movies so

far, Mockingjay Pt. 1 has its pros and cons. After Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) won and destroyed the Hunger Games in Catching Fire last year, she’s now numb and tired to the fact that District 12 has been turned to ruins. Under the impression that her co-champion Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) is dead, her childhood best friend Gale (Liam Hemsworth) is her main support. Desperate for a leader, the district’s President Coin (Julianne Moore) convinces Katniss to become the symbol, or “Mockingjay,” of the new rebellion. Donald Sutherland, Philip Seymour Hoff-

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man, Woody Harrelson and Elizabeth Banks reprise their roles from the previous films. Francis Lawrence’s second effort at Suzanne Collins’ series lacks action and adventure, and instead is heavy on drama and build-up. Though not boring, the film feels stretched to fill out its two-hour run time. The tension is there on screen, but so is a lot of filler. Lawrence and Hutcherson give their best performances of the series thus far, but Part 1 mostly leaves us wanting the second half—mission accomplished. DP www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 19) WINTER WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m-7 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor. Tickets are $49. Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Jan. 20. See more events at www.danawharf.com. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603. SCOTT ROBERTSON OC ELVIS 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Live music at Harpoon Henry’s. 34555 Golden Lantern St, Dana Point, 949.493.2933, www.windandsearestaurants.com/ harpoonhenrys/home.

Sunday | 07 8TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS HOME TOUR 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tour beautifully decorated homes in the community of San Clemente. All proceeds from the fundraiser will support children of the Capistrano Unified School District and Camp Pendleton military families. Home tours will feature food tastings from The Cellar Restaurant, Gourmet Blends, Brick and Sundried Tomato. Opportunity drawings available with cash prizes. Tickets $40. 949.291.8408, www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org.

Monday | 08 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Trips available every day of the week. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary depending on the vessel. Call for more information. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com. TODDLER AND PRESCHOOL STORYTIMES 10 a.m-10:30 a.m. Stories for children 18-35 months and 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for ages 3-5 at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org. 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. Half price on Tuesdays but trips are available every day of the week. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Wednesday | 10 CAPO BEACH FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Visit the area’s newest weekly market where locally-grown, organic produce and regional artisans Page 20

are featured. Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org. URINETOWN THE MUSICAL 7 p.m. The South Orange County School of the Arts presents “Urinetown the Musical” on Dec. 10, 11, 12 and 13. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Porthole Theater, Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.socsarts.org.

Thursday | 11 MERMADE MARKET 9 a.m.-8 p.m. The second semi-annual Mermade Market handmade-only craft bazaar features original crafts unique to this show. You will find fine art, holiday gifts, jewelry, décor, candles, textiles and more. Dec. 11-13. Event is free to attend. Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, www.danapoint.org. GONE COUNTRY 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Country music and dancing every Thursday at the Point Restaurant. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www. thepointrestaurantandbar.com. MOMS IN CHARGE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Fun, stress-free holiday shopping at Capo Beach Christian School. 25975 Domingo Avenue, South Coast, 949.330.7106, www.momsincharge.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 SANTA PAWS 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Pet Project Foundation is hosting the third annual Santa Paws event. Bring your pet and have their picture taken with Santa for a small fee. All proceeds support the Pet Project Foundation. 34642 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, 949.496.6177, www.petprojectfoundation.org. SON OF GOD CONCERT 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m.5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 South Shores Church presents Son of God, featuring the 75-voice Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra under the direction of Robert T. Perry. Tickets are $10. South Shores Church, 32712 Crown Valley Parkway, Monarch Beach, 949.496.9331. For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com

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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

FOR LEASE ARE YOU LOOKING TO LEASE PREMIER OFFICE SPACE IN DOWNTOWN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO? RRM Design Group, a multi-disciplinary design firm with in-house Architects, Landscape Architects, Urban Designers, Planners, and Civil Engineers is seeking a strategic “business tenant” for our east wing space. Newly refurbished with new paint, carpet and upgraded bathroom. The second floor, 550 sf office space has plenty of natural light, private entrance, and private restroom. Ideal for small company or sole professional. Conveniently located close to freeway, downtown shops and restaurants. One year lease of $1350 / mo., includes trash and water. Please contact Susan Whalen at (805) 543-1794 with your interest.

GARAGE SALE SATURDAY DECEMBER 6TH 7AM-2PM 27001 Calle Juanita, Capistrano Beach. Moving Sale Everything Must Go!!! Refrigerator, Couches, Sleeper Sofa, Chairs, Beds, Dressers, tables, Art, Treadmill, Kids bikes and toys, Kitchen Supplies, Tools, much more

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

LOST/FOUND LOST BLACK CAT WITH BLUE COLLAR. His name is Tavi. Please call or text 949-701-1301. Granddaughter is heartbroken.

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week? Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today! 949.388.7700 ext. 102 Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@danapointtimes.com

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DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: It’s History by Carlos N. Olvera

A Cove Becomes a Harbor

he majestic cliffs and the south facing beaches of Dana Point were an attraction to the tall ships during the cowhide trading days of the 1830s due to the location of the mission. But the idea of building a small boat harbor became necessary. After San Pedro development began in 1898, Balboa Bay then became the playground of the “rich and famous” and by 1949 had one of the largest pleasure boat fleets on the coast. The idea for new harbors in Southern California was initiated in 1945 by the Secretary of War. In the late 1940s studies were being conducted of Dana PointSan Clemente, Upper Newport Harbor, and Bolsa Chica for small boat harbors. Initially, Dana Point and San Clemente were considered as separate harbors, but were combined into one IT’S HISTORY due to cost, proposed by By Carlos N. the 1947 San Clemente Olvera Planning Commission at a cost of $25 million. Favored was Dana Point with a $4 million breakwater for 350 boats. In 1956, an $8.5 million San Clemente-Dana Point small boat harbor was adopted by the county for about 1,000 craft. An estimated start date was anticipated by 1960 after $1 million was promised by the California State Small Harbors Commission. Although there were some concerns about beach erosion, an approval was reached by the community for the US Army Corps of Engineers to begin the study after being tabled twice due to the Korean War. The plan had grown to $11 million for 1,500 craft. But a sudden revision surfaced. San

Dana Point Harbor as commissioned by Assemblyman Bruce W. Sumner when the California Legislature voted to approve the use of California Tide Lands for the Dana Point Harbor, December 14, 1960. (Olvera Collection)

Clemente had applied for, and was approved, to annex 30 square miles of ocean from the San Diego County line to Dana Cove. The kicker was, no vote was required because no voters live in the area. The concept died as quick as it was announced. In 1964, the plans were unveiled for 2,150 boats at $20 million. A model was made to test the wave action both inside and outside of the harbor with a design of redundancy with the breakwater and an island to protect the moorings, the first design of its kind. This was prompted by the damage done previously to Playa del Rey. The plan also included the condemnation of nearly 30 acres of land, from Golden Lantern to Del Obispo, owned by George Capron.

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 December 5–11, 2014

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

model was made to test the wave action both inside “andAoutside of the harbor with a design of redundancy with the breakwater and an island to protect the moorings, the first design of its kind.

”

By now the county had set aside $4.35 million while negotiations continued with the federal government. In total about $8 million had been set aside for design, dredging, and breakwaters. Private financing was being considered for the structures. On Aug. 29, 1966, the harbor dedication ceremonies began. Ft. MacArthur’s 72nd Army Band played, and County Chairman Alton E. Allen and local, state and federal representatives were present. A time capsule, containing the engineering plans, historical documents and photos, was embedded in an 8-ton rock. The festivities included a barbeque and free tickets to the 50-year capsule opening. Its opening is scheduled for Aug. 29, 2016. I have already placed this event on the county’s calendar and even communicated with a former resident—now living in Florida— who was present at the capsule sealing and plans on being in attendance. Those who received free barbecue tickets in 1966 for the planned 2016 barbecue event will be honored. Construction continued with the two jetties as large chunks of granite were

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brought in from Catalina Island. The trucks would drive out on the jetty and onto a turntable where they were rotated 180 degrees, dumped the rocks and drove off forward. Over 3 million cubic yards of earth was moved. A promontory point known as Princes Point was cut off and used as fill for what is now Harbor Drive. With the harbor closed in, 225 million gallons of sea water trapped inside was pumped out. The time capsule and its 8-ton rock were then placed at the entrance at Puerto Place in October 1968. The harbor opening was Aug. 1, 1971 while many of the slips were still under construction—22 years from concept to opening. Old-timers say the loss of Killer Dana was a tragedy. But if construction started today, it would never happen. Carlos N. Olvera is vice chairman of the OC Historical Commission and mayor of Dana Point. 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

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DP LIVING

All registered runners were rewarded with a Turkey Trot medal at the end of their race. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Volunteers Annie Bechler and Isabelle Shaver had out bananas, water and holiday cheer to participants. Photo: Andrea Swayne

A Trot Triumphant

37th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot a success BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

or thousands the Dana Point Turkey Trot is as crucial to Thanksgiving Day as turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. With more than 10,000 registered runners and thousands more attending as spectators, this year’s Trot continued the tradition in fine form—races running on schedule, a highly-attended health and wellness expo, an increased number of children and a great showing of creativity among costumed participants. I think this year went extremely well,” Heather Johnston, the chamber’s executive director said. “Our registration was down a little bit, but overall there was a strong showing of everybody. Our kids’ race had more runners than in previous years. Everything ran really smoothly—the city, the Harbor, everyone did a wonderful job.” This year’s registered racers numbered 10,200 down from last year’s 10,400, John-

ston said, adding that the normal numbers of the Fifth Marine Regiment at Camp Pendleton was lower due to deployment. Net proceeds from the event benefit local nonprofits, having a significant impact in Dana Point and neighboring communities. This year’s beneficiaries—along with the nonprofit Chamber of Commerce— were the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley, San Clemente-based Family Assistance Ministries and the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Center. Dana Point newcomer Billy Blanks, internationally known creator of Tae Bo® and owner of the new Billy Blanks Ancient Arts Studio in Dana Point, served as this year’s official fitness expert, leading warm-ups at the starting line and sharing tips with attendees. “I had no idea how big this is,” said Blanks, while taking in the action near the finish line. “I’m happy to have been a part of it.” DP

A sprint for the finish line. Photo: Marco Scognamiglio

Billy Blanks served as this year’s fitness expert. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Competitors in the kids’ Gobble Wobble set a fast pace at the start of their race. Photo: Andrea Swayne

PET OF THE WEEK: BENTLEY This handsome little kitty is 8-monthold Bentley. A cat with a great disposition, Bentley enjoys the company of both people and other cats. His hobbies include playing with toys disguised as mice, birdwatching and snuggling. If his charming personality doesn’t win you over, his soulful eyes are sure to melt your heart. If you would like to know more about Bentley, please call the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or stop by for a visit at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente. DP

Costumed runners add a fun twist to the event each year. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

Baseball: Wolf Signs with Seattle University

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Dolphins Boys Cross Country Takes Second at State Meet The Dana Hills boys cross country team continued their torrid postseason stretch on Nov. 29 in the CIF State Championships at Woodward Park in Fresno, capturing the Division 1 second-place trophy. The Dolphins had four runners inside the top-30, finishing with 107 total points, just six points off the first-place mark set by Great Oak in the Division 1 race. Junior Jake Ogden led the Dolphins yet again, finishing in second place as an individual with a time of 15:11. Junior Mason Coppi posted a time of 15:33 and finished eighth while senior Alex Smith’s time of 15:50 was good for a 25th-place finish. The Division 1 race was closely contested, as the top four teams finished within eight points of one another. Madera South and Burroughs finished third and fourth, respectively, with 109 total points each.

Dolphins Girls Basketball Picks up First Win The Dana Hills girls basketball team picked up a narrow 27-25 victory over Laguna Beach at the Corona del Mar Tip Off Tournament on Dec. 3 to notch their first win of the season. The Dolphins lost their first two games, against University and Corona del Mar, respectively, before heading into the match with the Breakers. Against Laguna Beach, the Dolphins were led by Peyton Romo’s nine points. Reagan Orloff added six in the win.

Dolphins Boys Hoops Enter Diablo Inferno The Dana Hills boys basketball team started their season off with an appearance in the Diablo Inferno Tournament at Mission Viejo High School on Dec. 1. Dana Hills squared off against St. Margaret’s in the first game and came away with a 54-35 victory. Dana Hills’ Grant Marocchi and Parker Romo led all scorers with 13 points, while senior Louis Selstad poured in 10 in the victory. Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

Dana Hills senior Zach Wolf recently signed his National Letter of Intent to play baseball for Seattle University. Photo: KDahlgren Photography

Grant Marocchi scored 13 points in the Dana Hills boys basketball team’s win over St. Margaret’s on Dec. 1. Photo: Steve Breazeale

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

The Dolphins (1-1) played El Modena on the second day of the tournament and lost, 65-59. El Modena’s Legend Demps scored a game-high 30 points. The Dolphins were set to play the third-place finisher in the tournament’s B bracket in the Dec. 5 knockout round. Results were not available at press time.

Boys, Girls Soccer set to Begin Seasons The Dana Hills boys soccer team was scheduled to play a season-opening match against Laguna Beach on Dec. 3. Results were not available at press time. The Dolphins will host Beckman in a nonleague contest on Dec. 5. The Dana Hills girls soccer team was set to travel for a game against Valencia in their nonleague season opener on Dec. 4. Results were not available at press time.

Dolphins Water Polo Falls to Eagles In their first game of the season, the Dana Hills girls water polo team lost a nonleague game to Santa Margarita, 18-9, on Dec. 3. The Eagles scored eight goals in the second quarter, which built a comfortable lead. Dana Hills was led by Maddison Baba, who scored four goals and had two assists. Senior goalie Blaire Borisoff had four saves. Santa Margarita’s Bella Vaia led all scorers with nine goals.

ana Hills senior Zach Wolf recently signed his National Letter of Intent to attend and play baseball for Seattle University, the university announced in a press release. Wolf, a 165-pound third baseman and pitcher, had a breakout junior campaign that saw him bat .330, collect 16 RBI and score 20 runs. On the mound, Wolf went 4-1 with a 2.44 ERA in eight appearances. Wolf also played a solid third base, recording only seven errors at the hot corner in 65 total chances. Wolf was selected to the All-Sea View

League first team, helped push the Dolphins to a 26-8 overall record, the league title and an appearance in the CIF-SS Division 2 quarterfinals as a junior. “We jumped on the opportunity to sign this tremendous student-athlete late in the recruiting process … The intangibles he presents both on and off the field will give him an opportunity to step in and compete right away for us,” Seattle University assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Elliot Cribby said in the release. Seattle University won 26 games last season, including a 13-11 record in the Western Athletic Conference. DP

Turkey Trot Top Finishers DANA POINT TIMES

n Thanksgiving morning, roughly 10,200 people descended upon Dana Point to take part in the 37th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot. The race featured several options, including a 5K, 10K and a kids Gobble Wobble. Here is the list of the top-3 finishers in each race division. 5K Open Men’s Division 1. Michael Clinch (15:49) 2. Patrick Douglas (16:00) 3. Joel Perez (16:25) 5K Open Women’s Division 1. Arielly Conde (18:12) 2. Natalie Herberg (18:24) 3. Katrina Witt (18:31) 5K Masters Men’s Division 1. Juan Ramirez (16:31) 2. Dave Scudamore (16:34) 3. Barry Givens (17:18) 5K Masters Women’s Division 1. Dolores Castro (19:11) 2. Sarah Lesko (19:16) 3. Carla McAlister (19:59)

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Dolores Castro of Santa Ana crosses the finish line to grab a first-place finish in the masters women’s division at the Dana Point Turkey Trot. Photo: Andrea Swayne

10K Men’s 1. Scott Smith (30:05) 2. Daniel Tapia (30:12) 3. Danny Mercado (30:14) 10K Women’s 1. Misiker Demissie (33:22) 2. Katja Goldring (34:37) 3. Juliane Masciana (35:00) DP www.danapointtimes.com

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Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

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Nona AssociatesRaymond J. Nona A.I.A

26901 Camino de Estrella, 949.496.2275, www.raynona.com

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto

34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

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Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

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Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

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Club Salsa Dance Studio

34202 Camino Capistrano Capistrano Beach, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com

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IMAGES/Creative Solutions

117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com

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Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

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Patricia Powers

24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, pat.powers@cox.net

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Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

LOCKSMITH

Dana Point Lock & Security

949.496.6916, www.danapointlock.com

Dawgy Style

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

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Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

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Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT

PSYCHOTHERAPY 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, 949.488.2648, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

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State Farm/Ted Bowersox

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204, 949.661.3200, www.tedbowersox.com

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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

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

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surfers Share

GROM OF THE WEEK

MADDIE OBERG

SC Pier Event Saturday and Sunday BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

Maddie Oberg, 12, has been on my list of surfers to feature for some time now. When contacting her for an interview this week, I was surprised to find she moved to Austin, Texas just before the start of the school year. Last year Maddie competed in SSS events as part of the Bernice Ayer Middle School surf team, her first foray into a competitive surf series. She began the season competing on both long and shortboards but by the end of the year had moved exclusively to shortboarding. She first tried surfing at the age of 4 and by the time she hit sixth grade she was hooked on the sport, so having to move away from the beach has been rough. “It’s a terrible feeling not being able to surf,” she said. “I have five or six bars of wax just sitting on my desk, reminding me, just waiting to be used. Surfing gave me this feeling that nothing else really can. It is awesome and I love it. Now I have to find another hobby.” Despite her new land-locked locale, Maddie has found a way to stay with a water-centric board sport—wake surfing at Lake Travis when summer rolls around again. Other than the lack of surfing, she is adjusting. She’s made a lot of new friends but is amazed with the “huge difference in people’s personalities” in Texas.

he Western Surfing Association is continuing its seven-year tradition of teaming up with Camp Pendleton Marines to collect gifts for children as part of the surf contest series’ December event. On Dec. 6 and 7, WSA will hold Event No. 5 of their Championship Tour at the San Clemente pier and is asking the assistance of competitors, their families, spectators and others to drop by with a new unwrapped gift for the Marines’ Toys for Tots drive. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver a message of hope to youngsters who might not receive anything this Christmas through a new, shiny toy that will help motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders. “This is a great opportunity to give back,” said Mary Lou Drummy, WSA executive director. “We are so blessed to live near the beach and have the health and resources to surf. It would be great if surf companies could go through their warehouses and grab any discontinued, promotional or return-to-stock items for donation. Let’s once again show how generous our community of surfers can be.” Competitors have really gotten into the spirit of giving over the years, each year receiving a commemorative long-sleeve Tshirt from this event in exchange for their toy donations.

Young WSA competitors line up to present their Toys for Tots donations during last year’s event at the San Clemente Pier. Photo: Sheri Crummer

Collection boxes will be available at the event site and Marines will be on hand on both days collecting toys and donations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Members of the public are invited to contribute and watch as surfers of all ages—Micro Groms to Legends—compete. “We like to involve all communities with our toy drive,” said Deborah Anderson, Toys for Tots coordinator. “We are so excited to partner with WSA again and have our Marines on hand to collect toys at the contest. The Marines are always very excited to participate in this event, which is always one of our most successful collection events.” Camp Pendleton has a particular need for items that appeal to 10- to 17-year-olds, such as new, unworn items of surf wear, hats, skateboards, bodyboards, gift cards, etc. as well as gifts for babies and toddlers. For questions or to arrange a pick-up of a larger donation please send an email to info@surfwsa.org. For information about Toys for Tots or WSA, see www.toysfortots.org and www.surfwsa.org. DP

Water Temperature: 64-67 degrees F

30th annual Quiksilver In Memory of Eddie Aikau opens

Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 6-10’ Poor+ Catalina: 6-12’ Poor+

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

Dana Point Times December 5–11, 2014

“Even though I had a lot of good friends in San Clemente, I’ve noticed there are less cliques and mean girl stuff going on at school in Austin,” she said. “Everybody lives farther apart here and I only see my friends at school. But in San Clemente the town is more of a close community. I miss it so much—all my friends, the beach, my school, my teachers. I just miss everything about it.” Maddie’s parents have told her they will eventually move back to San Clemente, most likely sometime during her high school years. “When we move back, I’m never going to leave,” she said. “I will concentrate on getting better at surfing and seeing how far I can go in the sport.” Maddie asked to take this opportunity to send a shout out to her San Clemente friends Sophie Weber, Riley Nattrass and Grace Nelson, as well as her surf coaches Scott Mills and Jon Pierce. “I miss you guys so much and hope to see you soon,” she said.—Andrea Swayne

SURF FORECAST

Will Eddie Go?

he Eddie Aikau was last held in December of 2009 crowning San Clemente surfer Greg Long as its champion. He is again among this year’s list of invitees, who must be ready to travel to Hawaii, with less than a day’s notice upon the arrival of an Eddie-worthy swell. An originator of big wave surfing competition, the event is held in honor of Eddie Aikau, the celebrated surfer and lifeguard who charged the biggest swells and made rescues in conditions others would not dare to face. He was lost at sea attempting to get help for the crew of a canoe that capsized off the coast of Molokai in 1978. The first event was held in 1985

Maddie Oberg. Photo: Courtesy

The Opening Ceremony for the 30th annual Quiksilver in Memory of Eddie Aikau will take place on Thursday, Dec. 4 at Waimea Bay. San Clemente’s Greg Long, defending champion, is once again among the invitees. Photo: ASP / Kelly Cestari

at Sunset Beach. It was moved to Waimea Bay in 1987. Since its inception, invitees and members of the Aikau family have gathered at Waimea Bay, on Oahu’s famous North Shore, for the opening ceremony marking the start of the event’s Dec. 1 through Feb. 28 waiting period. The contest has been held only eight times in its three-decades—when waves reach the minimum

20-foot height. This year’s opening ceremony was set for Dec. 4 at 3 p.m. According to an Association of Surfing Professionals news release, long-range surf forecasts are predicting the arrival of a swell that could deliver on, or around Dec. 9. For more information, including a full list of invitees, past winners and more, visit www.quiksilver.com/eddie. DP

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Thursday and Friday: Old west to west/ southwest swell holds early Thursday, before dropping out through the day. Better breaks go waist-chest high (3-4’), as standout exposures through Orange County pull in some shoulderhead high sets. Size is down into the kneewaist high+ (2-3’+) zone Friday. Winds are most favorable and light offshore ESE/E in the mornings before trending onshore into each afternoon. Longer Range Outlook: New northwest swell builds through the weekend. Conditions are favorable in the mornings, before onshore flow develops each afternoon. Check out Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook!