LO C A L
N EWS
January 23-29, 2015
YO U
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The Best of Dana Point People’s Choice Lantern Awards Coming Feb. 6 VOLUME 8, ISSUE 4
An Inspirational Journey Festival of Whales Foundation program seeks to engage, inspire local youth E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4
Sarah Champ, a student at Dana Hills High School, shot this photo of her peers while on a recent Festival of Whales Foundation’s student art program.
Silence at StillWater: Live Music Suspended Indefinitely EYE ON DP/PAGE 3
Dolphins Baseball Prospects in Action at MLK Tourney SPORTS/PAGE 14
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Dozens of Area Surfers Excel at O’side WSA Contest SURF/PAGE18
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DP EYE ON DP Dana Point
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
What’s Up With...
such a change, but were told it might take three years.
Five things Dana Point should know this week Silence at StillWater THE LATEST: Damien Collins, owner of StillWater Spirits & Sounds began circulating a letter via social media this week asking for community support after receiving orders from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control to cease having live music until further notice. Efforts to contact the ABC and Collins by press time were unsuccessful. But Collins alleges that a group of Lantern Bay Estates residents have organized in an effort to do away with all music in the Town Center-Lantern District and his business is but one target. “We have not violated any city noise ordinances,” Collins wrote in his letter, adding that the building his restaurant is in has hosted live music continuously since the late 1950s. The building was most recently home to Renaissance before being purchased by Collins in 2012. Collins likened the complaints to “People who buy houses next to an airport and then complain about plane noise” but also said he had taken steps during the building’s renovation to circumvent noise, such as the removal of the outdoor stage. While City Manager Doug Chotkevys said he hasn’t had an opportunity to review the ABC’s order, he has some concerns regarding local control with the ABC. Chotkevys said that along with previous actions in the Lantern District by the ABC, such as their halting of live music at StillWater, shows a tendency for the body not to respect the city’s local noise ordinances and CUPs. In 2005 the city granted a conditional use permit to wine bar/restaurant, Purple Feet (a building also on Del Prado and currently the location of Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar) to extend the hours of alcohol service from 10:30 p.m. every night to 11 p.m. from Sunday to Wednesday and midnight from Thursday to Saturday. The ABC disregarded the city permit and ordered alcohol service be limited to 10:30 p.m. “We have no confirmed violations of the noise ordinance at that location since I’ve been here,” Chotkevys said. WHAT’S NEXT: Chotkevys said he intends to comply with a request by the City Council for him to begin a dialogue with the ABC and locally elected officials in Sacramento (Bill Brough and Pat Bates) to look for a resolution. —Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
This rendering, courtesy of MemorialCare, shows the proposed look of the new structure after Saddleback Memorial Medical Center-San Clemente hospital and emergency room is replaced with an urgent care facility.
Sunday Suicide by Train the Second in 9 Days THE LATEST: For the second time in less than 10 days, a person was killed on the railroad tracks Sunday along the San Clemente Beach Trail in what has been ruled a suicide. Joseph Marrs, 47, of San Clemente was killed following a collision with a train just after 3 p.m. Sunday at approximately Buena Vista and Avenida Aragon. On Friday, Jan. 9, a 22-year-old Irvine woman, Shiva Maghzi, was killed in a collision with a train just south of the 1800 block of Avenida Estacion. Both incidents have been ruled suicides by the Orange County Coroner and both incidents delayed traffic on the tracks for several hours. WHAT’S NEXT: Orange County Sheriff’s Department public information officer Lt. Jeff Hallock indicated that the area between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, including the stretch of track running through the Capistrano Beach area of Dana Point, has often been the site of such incidents.—JS
days after the rash appears. As a public health measure, Orange County Health Officer Dr. Eric G. Handler, has announced that children who have not received at least one dose of the mumps, measles and rubella vaccine and been exposed to measles can be excluded from attending school or daycare. WHAT’S NEXT: Children are should receive their first dose at MMR vaccine at 12-15 months of age and their second dose routinely at 4-6 years of age. If a child has not received the recommended doses, parents are advised to contact their health care provider as soon as possible to arrange for immunization. Those without a health care provider are asked to call the Orange County Health Care Agency Health Referral Line at 800.564.8448. If someone believes their child has measles, they are asked to call their health care provider and notify Orange County Public Health Epidemiology at 714.834.8180 before going to a doctor’s office or hospital. FIND OUT MORE: For more information visit www.ochealthinfo.com/phs/about/ dcepi/epi/disease/measles. – DP Times
Talk of Hospital Closure Extends Across Tri-Cities
22 Cases of Measles Confirmed in County THE LATEST: The Orange County Public Health Care Agency has confirmed 22 cases of the measles in the county following an outbreak traced to exposure at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure last month. That initial exposure has then spread elsewhere in the county. The disease is spread through the air, making it easy to spread quickly among those not vaccinated. It causes fever, rash, cough, and red, watery eyes. Measles spreads very easily by air and by direct contact with an infected person. Measles is contagious from approximately four days before the rash appears through four
THE LATEST: A number of San Clemente residents again turned out at the City Council meeting Tuesday to oppose the potential change of the hospital to an advanced urgent care facility. A number of residents noted they, or relatives, had chosen the city to live in due to it having its own hospital. Saddleback Memorial San Clemente campus administrator Tony Struthers noted that advocates for the current set-up should get behind a proposal to change the state’s rules allowing for free-standing emergency rooms. Dr. Gus Gialamis said members of a nonprofit group, Save San Clemente Hospital were also advocating on behalf of
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WHAT’S NEXT: San Clemente Mayor Chris Hamm confirmed at the City Council meeting that he, along with Councilwoman Lori Donchak, Assistant City Manager Erik Sund and resident Mike Clark, would meet with MemorialCare CEO Steve Geidt and Struthers at a meeting next week to discuss the issue. Also on Tuesday, at the Dana Point City Council meeting, two public speakers, including a physician from the hospital, asked the council to get involved in the matter and take a stand against the hospital’s closure. The same night the San Juan Capistrano City Council unanimously passed a resolution opposing the hospital closure. WHAT’S NEXT: MemorialCare will host an open house from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, to discuss its current plans for the hospital property at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr. in Dana Point.—Jim Shilander
CUSD Board Reviews Independent CFD Audit THE LATEST: On Jan. 14, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees received a summary of an independent audit report of the district’s Community Facilities Districts (CFDs), which has been a controversial subject for the district in the past. Last year, the board requested that staff provide an audit on the CFDs, which will be conducted annually. The district’s financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2014, was completed by the firm Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co, LLP, Certified Public Accountants. A representative of the firm presented their findings at the board’s Jan. 14 meeting. The firm analyzed the district’s CFD finances during fiscal year 2013-14, which included the process for receiving and spending money and whether sufficient internal controls are in place, and concluded that there were “no internal control deficiencies to report.” WHAT’S NEXT: During the meeting’s public comments, Andrea Ewell and Laura Ferguson, residents of San Clemente’s Talega neighborhood representing Talega Residents for Fair Taxation, addressed both the audit and the CFD language discussed. They voiced ongoing concerns that CFD money is illegally being spent on school and school-related facility maintenance, mainly at San Clemente High School. Talegans have been voicing concerns over the state of the CFD since an August 2013 refinancing, the proceeds of which were initially not returned to residents. That decision was reversed in early 2014.—Allison Jarrell www.danapointtimes.com
EYE ON DP
An Inspirational Journey
A few of the Festival of Whales Foundation field trip participants’ photographs were chosen to be featured along with their comments about the inspiration they found in and around the Harbor that day. To view a gallery of more student photos and comments, visit www.danapointtimes.com.
Festival of Whales Foundation program seeks to engage, inspire local youth BY ANDREA SWAYNE AND JIM SHILANDER, DANA POINT TIMES
F
or some students and faculty, it’s a trip they look forward to all year, even for those who have attended since the beginning of the program four years ago. And for others, it’s the new experience they’ve been looking forward to for some time. On Thursday, Jan. 8, more than 100 students from Dana Hills High School, along with art teachers and other staff members, took their annual trip aboard Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching’s Dana Pride on a twohour journey of inspiration. Following the whale watching excursion, students walked to the Ocean Institute, to explore the ocean education facility’s brig Pilgrim, aquariums and the beach of the marine-protected area behind the facility. It is a day of discovery for all, as students record their experience through photography, plein air sketching and just taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Dana Point’s coastal environment. The trip is part of a partnership between the school and the Dana Point Festival of Whales Foundation, which allows students to compete to create the official logo for each year’s event. Other student work inspired by the outing is displayed at the Art in the Park exhibition in the Dana Point Harbor during the annual Festival held at the Harbor each spring. This year’s 44th annual festival is set for March 7, 8, 14 and 15. More about the festival can be found online at www.festivalofwhales.com. And the trip did inspire awe and creativity for the young art students. For much of the trip, the Dana Pride followed a female California gray whale that appeared to be ready to give birth, making its way south toward the Baja lagoons. On a couple of occasions, other boats came close to the whale, with one pleasure craft appearing to float only a few feet above it. A pod of common dolphins also gave students a show, darting in and out of the water near the boat. Because the whale and dolphin sightings were relatively scarce that day, the students found many other subjects to photograph. Penny Elia, the festival’s executive director, first contacted the high school in 2011 with the idea of creating the logo contest for the students. Every year since then, one winner and four runners-up have been chosen as award winners, with the top choice being utilized as the official logo for the event. This year’s logo design winner is Alec Brady, who was the subject of a feature story in the Dana Point Times unveiling his design and those of the runnersup. Brady will also be featured in the event’s official program and make a few public appearances during the two-weekend event. “At the time I felt there was a missing component in the festival—our young people,” Elia said. “Students benefit from participating in the art-centric part of our program by interacting alongside working professionals.” Elia said one of the ultimate goals for the logo design contest and exhibiting student art alongside professional artists—aside from inspiring creativity—is to provide participants with an experience similar to what they could encounter should they choose a career in art while at the same time, instilling a new or greater appreciation for the aquatic environment and the animals that live there. “The festival does have an environmental message and it’s important for the next generation to be aware of it and Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
Katherine Redden, sophomore, AP Studio Art “I got some really nice shots when the dolphins came really close to the boat. That was fun. It was a really cool experience that I will definitely remember for a long time.”
Alexander Beau, senior, AP Studio Art “I’ve always been interested in taking silhouette and sunrise photos and the lighting on the water was perfect for that. I like that this program gives students the opportunity to show our work and let people know what we are really capable of.”
Sarah Champ, sophomore, AP Studio Art “The experience of getting outside and going on the boat was really cool, even though we only saw one whale and a few dolphins. The tall ship Pilgrim was a unique subject we don’t usually get to shoot. I found its textures, lines and angles very interesting and inspiring.
Amy Giraldo, senior, AP Studio Arts, SOCSA Drawing and Painting, ROP Digital Video Production “Going out on the boat and seeing Dana Point from another perspective was really inspiring. Nature and the natural environment is an inspiration because there’s beauty in simple and natural things.”
willing to carry it forward,” Elia said. Krista Snow, the AP Studio Art teacher at Dana Hills who has been a part of the program since its inception, said her students, as well as those in the school’s other art classes, begin asking about the field trip at the beginning of the school year, eager to use the inspiration gathered on the trip to create ceramics, sculpture, painting, photography and collage for Art in the Park. “Being able to participate in a professional art show has helped them build valuable career skills—meeting deadlines, preparing work for exhibition and marketing their work,” Snow said. “The quality of work increases when students know that their work will be viewed by the public.” Amanda Denison, a ceramics teacher at the high school, said she and her fellow teachers also eagerly anticipate the trip as much as their students do. “I’ve been looking forward to it since December,” Denison said. “And the kids really love it, especially the ones who’ve done it the year before. It’s a really cool thing we get to do that gets us involved in the community and blends into our classroom. Everybody’s really stoked for it.” Denison agreed that the opportunity for students to get a taste of what life would be like as a professional artist is essential to the program.
“I think it’s important for them because it’s not just for fun, it becomes a career path for some,” she said. “I went to the school that I’m teaching at. I learned how to be an artist as a student. And I can emphasize that this isn’t something you do just for kicks, you can make a life out of it.” Drawing and painting teacher Chau Tran said in his experience over the last four years, the trip provides fodder for expression that his students use through the end of the year. Sophomores Heather Maitino and Sophie Matsumoto were on the second and maiden voyages on the boat. Both girls said they were hoping to utilize waves crashing into the rocks and other images they’d captured. Elia recalled speaking with another of the program’s founding teachers, Natalie Hribar-Kelly, whose comments made an impression on her, confirming for her the importance of engaging with local youth as much as possible. “Natalie said to me, ‘You know, Penny, this can be a game changer for a child,’” Elia said. “She talked about how for some it could change their whole thought process and that it could actually be inspiring a child’s future career. Interacting with adults, as mentors, is something I remember experiencing a lot of as a young person and I think we could really use more of that today.” DP
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www.danapointtimes.com
EYE ON DP
Community Meetings SATURDAY, JANUARY 24
Recycling Event at Dana Hills High
9 a.m.-11 a.m. Residents can drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the school parking lot for students to collect and sort. Funds collected are distributed by the school’s PTSA for student programs. Email for more info, president@ dhhsptsa.com. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. Judy L. Smith (Dana Point) of the California Retired Teachers Association and Marian Fourier, board member of San Clemente Military Family Outreach. Photo: Courtesy
Retired Teachers Association Helps Military Families DANA POINT TIMES
T
he California Retired Teachers Association Area X Division 42 recently donated $2,125 to San Clemente Military Family Outreach. The donations sponsored 23 military
families with needs for the holidays. The association also donated over $13,000 of grants to working teachers and $75,000 in scholarships for students studying education in 2013-2014. DP
MONDAY, JANUARY 26
Golden Lantern, www.danapoint.org.
South Orange County Toastmasters Meeting 7 p.m.-8:40 p.m. Practice
becoming a more confident communicator. Occurs every Tuesday. Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point. 949.280.9777, 3944816.toastmastersclubs.org.
Dana Harbor Toastmasters
7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Fine tune your public speaking skills each Tuesday. Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., Capistrano Beach, 949.492.7181, www.1707.toastmastersclubs.org. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28
Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club
6 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, www.danapoint.org.
7 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Join members of the volunteer-centered club for breakfast and a meeting each Wednesday at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.monarchbeachrotary.com.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2
Planning Commission Meeting
Town Center/Lantern District Parking Management Plan Meeting for Commercial Property Owners 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Dana
Point City Hall, Council Chambers, 33282
City Council Meeting
6 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, www.danapoint.org.
EYE ON DP
DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.
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Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com
Wednesday, January 21 DISTURBANCE Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (9:38 p.m.) A caller complained about neighbors who had their television and surround sound on very loud. The caller said it probably couldn’t be heard from the outside, but was very loud on the common wall. CITIZEN ASSIST Cheltham Way, 33400 Block (1:25 p.m.) A woman called about someone shooting a laser into her house while she was watching television. This is an ongoing issue. DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 32800 block (11:36 a.m.) A male transient was bothering customers at a coffee shop.
News Next Door
WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS
COMPILED BY BY ANDREA SWAYNE
MOTHER AND SON DEAD, 2 OF THE 9 INJURED IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CONDO FIRE ON TUESDAY A mother and son—two of nine people injured Tuesday morning when a secondfloor condo caught fire—have died, officials said. Jaiden Liborio, 3, died at Children’s Hospital at Mission in Mission Viejo shortly before midnight on Tuesday, according to an Orange County Coroner’s Office report. As of Wednesday morning, Liborio’s mother, Maricela Sanchez, 20, and his 2-year-old brother both remained in grave condition, according to Captain Steve Concialdi, the Orange County Fire Authority’s public information officer. Sanchez died Wednesday night at 8:40 p.m. at the UCI Medical Center in Orange, according to an Orange County Coroner’s Office report. The OCFA received a call at 9:15 a.m. reporting a structure fire in a condominium complex on the 26500 block of La Zanja in San Juan Capistrano. A woman in her mid-20s tossed a 3-yearold girl and a 2-year-old girl out of a rear Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Street of the Golden Lantern/Dana Point Harbor Drive (8:49 a.m.) A man on a skateboard was carrying a mattress and yelling profanities at passers by.
Monday, January 19 DISTURBANCE Street of the Park Lantern, 25100 Block (7:16 p.m.) A man in the conference room was too drunk to leave, having arrived that way. The man was throwing water at employees.
Tuesday, January 20 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Selva Road, 34100 Block (11:33 p.m.) The caller asked for a check on the building behind his location. A woman was singing, badly, at the top of her lungs. DISTURBANCE Dana Drive, 2500 Block (9:17 p.m.) Two men were believed to be on the trail “tagging” with a Sharpie. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Domingo Avenue, 25900 Block (4:45 p.m.) Ten homeless people had set up camp in an alleyway in front of a residence. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano, 34200 Block (4:22 a.m.) A man was pounding on the caller’s door saying his car was stolen. It was not known where the man went after he stopped banging on the door. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (2:35 a.m.) A caller reported a man walking out of the backyard of a dwelling with some bags, which he hid in the yard. bedroom window and lowered a 5-year old boy to neighbors waiting below to catch the children, before jumping out onto a crib-sized mattress placed on the asphalt by neighbors to break her fall, Concialdi said. The woman and the two girls were transported to Saddleback Memorial Medical Center-San Clemente, all in moderate condition and suffering from smoke inhalation. The 5-year-old boy and a 7-year-old boy who was able to exit the building on his own were taken to Mission Hospital of Laguna Beach. Both were also in moderate condition and suffering from smoke inhalation, Concialdi said. A 48-year-old woman, the last of five who exited through the window, jumped, suffering serious lower leg injuries upon landing, as well as severe burns and smoke inhalation. She was taken to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo in serious condition. Firefighters rescued Liborio’s mother, Liborio and his 2-year-old brother from inside the condo. All were in grave condition at the time of their transport to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo. Liborio’s mother and the 48-year-old woman were moved to the UCI Medical Center burn unit in Orange for treatment Tuesday afternoon, Concialdi said. A small dog found hiding in the bottom drawer of the dresser under some clothing was also rescued by firefighters and given oxygen for smoke inhalation. Concialdi said the dog, Osito, recovered quickly. Sixty-five firefighters responded to the
parka, jeans and boots, was in a spa pool area. She was not a registered guest and was seen taping the door lock open. The caller said she was alone in the hotel and would like deputies to escort her off the property.
Sunday, January 18
CITIZEN ASSIST Dana Point Drive/Street of the Golden Lantern (5:40 p.m.) A caller reported that a friend had taken his car keys while he was sleeping. His car had been missing for a day and his friend had blocked contact.
BATTERY Colegio Drive, 33800 Block (10:30 p.m.) The caller’s roommate had started an argument and started choking the caller. The caller thought the roommate might have taken drugs.
DISTURBANCE Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (4:52 p.m.) A woman told police that a neighbor had told her husband he was going to shoot him over a parking issue and then went into his apartment. The woman did not know the man’s name. Her husband was speaking with the apartment manager.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Street of the Ruby Lantern/Pacific Coast Highway (7:10 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a nursery area where a male subject with a flashlight was trying to open a gate. It was too dark for a description.
BRANDISHING A WEAPON Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (7:45 a.m.) A woman entered a restaurant and threatened to kill someone with a switchblade if she didn’t get a phone. She left in a silver BMW. The woman was arrested and transported to Central Women’s Jail. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34600 Block (12:58 a.m.) A woman, described as being in her 30s with brown shoulder-length hair, a
DISTURBANCE Street of the Golden Lantern, 34400 Block (4:34 p.m.) A man was hitting his head on the building behind the restaurant by the bench facing the boats. The man was wearing sunglasses and a hat, and was described as “scruffy” and “sloppy drunk.” DISTURBANCE Sherwood Way, 24800 Block (12:51a.m.) Multiple people were in a verbal argument in the neighborhood and the caller heard them say they were going to get in a physical fight.
Two of the nine people injured Tuesday in a San Juan Capistrano condo fire on the 26500 block of La Zanja have died. The deceased are a 3-year-old boy and his 20-year-old mother. Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Fire Authority
2-alarm blaze, extinguishing it in under an hour. The fire resulted in an estimated $180,000 in damages to the structure and $40,000 to the contents of the two condo units involved. A total of 80 people, residing in eight units at the complex, were displaced. Investigators believe one of the children started the fire while playing with a lighter in the living room, Concialdi said. A total of 17 people were living in the 4-bedroom condo. Three children were at school and five adults were at work when fire broke out. “With so many residents living in a 4-bedroom condo, the abundance of beds, bedding, clothing, etc. greatly increased the
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amount of fuel for the fire,” Concialdi said, adding that investigators found no working smoke alarms in the unit, only the empty bases the alarms would have twisted on to. “Smoke alarms are required in every bedroom and in all hallways leading to a bedroom and when they work provide crucial extra seconds that save lives by not only alerting people in the affected rooms but also in adjoining rooms and adjacent units,” Concialdi said. “In October, OCFA received 5,000 smoke alarms from Kidde to be given to families in need in Orange County. Those in need of working smoke alarms should call the OCFA smoke alarm program number at 714.573.6190 to request them.”—Allison Jarrell contributed to this report. www.danapointtimes.com
DP SOAPBOX Dana Point
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths By Jim Kempton
Cuba Libre Cubans are a strong proud people yearning for freedom. Should we help them rather than hobble them?
P
resident Obama’s surprising move to open relations with Cuba caught many of us off guard—and caught the wrath of others. Cuba is a harsh, hostile, antagonistic, authoritarian, corrupt communist government. This certainly lends reasons for taking a hard stand against its leaders. So with any scale-back of our strict sanctions, accusations of “selling our ideals down the river” surface straight away. Yet when looking at how we treat the rest of the authoritarian regimes around the globe, does our previous Cuba policy seem consistent? One justification for our longstanding anti-Cuba policy is the belief that we should never trade with a communist country. That of course would make it difficult to continue with our largest trading partner—China. Détente detractors demand that we
Letters to the Editor CELEBRATE WITH RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS CAROL WEISBERG, Minnesota
To the girl who celebrated her birthday in the park shelter at Dana Point on February 23, 2014: Last year you celebrated your birthday by doing random acts of kindness, and I was one of the lucky recipients. As your birthday nears again, I thought you might like to know what happened after I opened the gailydecorated envelope that was handed to me as I strolled past your party. This small kindness was very touching and I started thinking about what I might do to celebrate my birthday, which followed yours by a month. I ended up sending e-mails to a few friends and relatives, inviting them to help me celebrate my 70th birthday by donating money to my local food shelf in Saint Paul, Minnesota, saying that I would match all donations dollar for dollar. This modest effort raised almost Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
never open relations with a nation that has tried to be hostile to us. Do they mean Iraq and Afghanistan? One argument contends corrupt leaders should not be appeased. How then would we explain our cozy relationship with the current Pakistani regime? Or Mexico’s for that matter? Some claim we should never open relations with a nation that suppresses its people. Would that include the removal of our Embassy in Rwanda where the militants now in office slaughtered over a million civilians? Or Bosnia where the state officials WAVELENGTHS encouraged the rape of By Jim Kempton over 20,000 women? Another argument insists we should never capitulate to a state where torture has been used. Our own Senate report on the CIA ”enhanced interrogation” not withstanding, we need look no further than our great friends and primary oil suppliers Saudi Arabia, where beheadings, persecution and assassinations are common practice by the ruling family. Others reject the notion of friendly contact with those (like Cuba) we have fought and who forced us from their shores. But Vietnam is now one of our best Asian trade partners. American businesses and citizens have benefited—and would benefit—from trade with Cuba, too. We openly do business with repressive,
authoritarian, previously hostile nations all across the globe. Meanwhile, how successful has our “get tough” policy been in Cuba? After 50 years of American animosity and sanctions, Cuba has a literacy rate as good as ours, a lower infant mortality rate, and a free health care system. And the same Havana despots have survived nine U.S. administrations; in spite of a crushing American embargo for half a century. Maybe the fastest way to undermine a corrupt and authoritarian regime is to let their citizens see just how much they are missing. Nixon opened relations with Communist China; Reagan made détente with the Russians. Open engagement and diplomatic relations have been effective in Libya, Ukraine, Algeria, East Germany and Egypt, in helping move those nations towards free-market, republican rule. Hard line isolation has been American policy in North Korea, Iran, Myanmar and Cuba. As Sarah Palin used to say, “How’s that been workin’ for ya?” Jim Kempton advocates America bombing the world’s most repressed nations— with relentless payloads of Taylor Swift CDs, Almond Joy candy bars, water purification kits, and copies of the Declaration of Independence. Collapse, he believes, would be imminent. 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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$5,000. This is equivalent to about $15,000 worth of food since the food shelf buys in bulk. Many people thanked me for giving them the opportunity to participate in this effort, and I’m sure that some of them are thinking about future acts of kindness that they might do. You started something big, as every act of kindness does. It multiplies and spreads out in all directions in ways that you can’t even begin to imagine. I’ve kept your envelope, card, and lucky $2 bill as a constant reminder of what is important in life. Thank you for making our world a better place. Hugs from Carol in Minnesota.
HOW WILL CUBANS PAY FOR GOODS? GEORGE BRODY, San Clemente
I am not against relations with Cuba, but politicians on the television and in the newspapers talk about how this will open commercial opportunities for the USA. I understand that the average Cuban (most of them work for the government) makes $40 to $60 per month (plus food stamps). If so, what puzzles me is, where will they get money to buy cars, trucks, electronics, cell phones, TVs, games or whatever we could export? Page 7
EDITOR’S NOTE: One of our own will be honored Thursday, Jan. 29 for her service as the 2014 chairwoman of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors at the chamber’s Installation Dinner and Annual Meeting. Lauralyn Loynes, associate publisher here at Lauralyn Loynes Picket Fence Media and a longtime Dana Point resident, gave up a lot of free time in support of the city’s business community, including our own locally-based company. Management and staff here are proud of Lauralyn’s accomplishments during her year leading the board and would like to let her know we appreciate her dedication to representing the Dana Point Times with professionalism and her own special brand of “LL” enthusiasm. Congratulations Lauralyn. The Installation Dinner will be held at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 23135 Park Lantern, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is open to the public. Tickets are $80 for chamber members and $95 for non-members and will be available online at www.danapointchamber.com until 11:55 p.m. on Jan. 28. This annual dinner meeting, besides inducting the new board and welcoming the year’s new chairman (Enzo Scognamiglio) and honoring the citizen of the year (Nancy Jenkins), business of the year (Elaine LaVine/State Farm Insurance) and ambassador of the year, which will be announced at the event. Please consider attending as it is a great way to support local business. —Andrea Swayne, Sr. Editor, Picket Fence Media
City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell 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, Kevin Dahlgren, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent
Dana Point Times, Vol. 8, Issue 4. The DP Times (www. danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
At the Movies: ‘American Sniper’ a Hit and a Miss
EDITOR’S PICK
What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF
Friday | 23 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. 30. See more events at www.danawharf.com. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603. OCEAN INSTITUTE JAZZ FESTIVAL 6 p.m. Enjoy jazz music by Rick Braun & Friends, Norman Brown, Elliott Yamin and more while enjoying an evening of epicurean dining, cocktails, live and silent auctions to benefit the Ocean Institute. The festival also runs on Jan. 24, 5:30 p.m. and Jan. 25, 3 p.m. Tickets start at $95. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.227, www.ocean-institute.org. URINETOWN THE MUSICAL 7 p.m. San Juan Hills High School presents “Urinetown The Musical,” a comical musical satire and winner of three Tony Awards. Show also runs Jan. 24. San Juan Hills High School, 29211 Vista Montana, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.5900, www.sjhhs.org.
Saturday | 24 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. KALAMA BROTHERS 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Live music at Mahé, 24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.6243, www.eatatmahe.com. NATE HANCOCK 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.
Sunday | 25 THE CREEPERS 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Live music at Hennessey’s Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
San Juan Capistrano resident and artist Jack Schmitt created this watercolor painting for the Jan. 31 car show. Photo: Courtesy of John Caldwell
The annual hisToric san Juan capisTrano car show • saTurday, January 31 The annual Historic San Juan Capistrano Car Show, at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center/Sports Park, will include more than 400 hot rods, muscle cars, classics, cruisers and more. The event will again feature the Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort, or CARE, and well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Proceeds from the event go toward supporting CARE as well as SJC Rotary charities. The show will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children 11 to 17 and free for kids under 11.
Wednesday | 28
Tavern, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.
Monday | 26 MOMMY MOVIE MONDAYS 10 a.m. Moms and dads are welcome to bring their babies along to the theater every Monday at Krikorian Theaters. 641 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7610, www.kptmovies.com. PJ STORYTIME WITH THE SUNSHINE READERS 7 p.m-8 p.m. Reading event for children off all ages, pajamas wearing encouraged but not required at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.
Tuesday | 27 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. TAPPED OUT TUESDAY 4 p.m.-10 p.m. Draft beer is half price on Tuesdays at Salt Creek Grille. Monarch Bay Plaza, 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.
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. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com. CALAFIA STONES 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. MISSION SJC DOCENT TRAINING CLASSES 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Docents make California history come alive for over 500,000 school children and adults each year. If you love history, have a natural curiosity, enjoy people and like sharing with others, this may be a volunteer position for you! The Mission SJC Docent Society will conduct training classes for new docents on Jan. 28 and Feb. 4 and 11. Training fees are $25 per person. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1322, www.missionsjc.com.
Thursday | 29 GONE COUNTRY 8 p.m.-midnight. Country music and dancing every Thursday at the Point Restaurant. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
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Photo: Courtesy Warner Bros. Entertainment
BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES
A
lot is being said about Clint Eastwood’s latest war piece, American Sniper. Based on true events of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle’s (Bradley Cooper) life and his experiences in Iraq as the military’s most lethal sniper, the film shows not only how well he can hit, but also his emotional detachment from humanity. Some are calling it conservative propaganda, others the best movie of 2014. And many film fans are annoyed the character study snatched six Academy Award nominations last week out of the blue over their desired choices. Eastwood has shown a lot of pessimism and caution on the subject of war on screen before. With Sniper, it’s less black and white and not in a completely realized way. It is clear Eastwood and Cooper were racing to get Kyle’s story released in time for award season, with poor CGI and practical effects as the most obvious result of the speedy production. It is also apparent that Eastwood might have been battling conflicting input from both Kyle’s family and the studio. Some scenes feel as if the filmmaker’s building up a stark, anti-war piece, while others quickly switch over to a somber, patriotic mood by the end, distorting Kyle’s character development. Cooper does give a fine performance despite the movie’s lost tone and message, and clearly had a passionate dedication to the role. In the end, Eastwood would’ve benefitted from more time in production and the film’s length. DP 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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GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Chris Wright
Recommended: Good Reads 2014, Literary Festival 2015
A
s we head into the new year, I thought I would share with you my two favorite books of 2014. For fiction my favorite read was Gabrielle Zevin’s The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin. This book was selected by librarians across the country as their favorite too on www.libraryreads.org. I recommended it in a previous column, but as a standout of 2014, it bears repeating. A. J. Fikry is a bookseller living on a small island off the New England coast. An elitist snob and selfpitying widower, his life is transformed by the arrival of a mysterious package. For nonfiction you must read Elephant Company: The Inspiring Story of an Unlikely Hero and the Animals Who Helped Him Save Lives in World War II by Vicki Kroke. This is a stimulating, fascinating and beautiful read about a man and his relationship with elephants in both war and peace. Today Bill Williams, who was quite renowned in the British Commonwealth in the 1940s and ’50s, would be called “the Elephant Whisperer.” The story is masterfully told without getting into anthropomorphism and over the top sentimentality. It’s an adventure, animal, war story and memoir all rolled into one lovely package. The Orange County Public Libraries’ annual literary festival, Literary Orange, will soon be here. Set for April 11, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Irvine Marriott, the day will include a selection of presentations covering a wide variety of topics such as memoirs, food writing, encouraging children to become readers, mysteries, writing and more. One such program, “Hollywood, War and Violence,” is a panel discussion set for 10:30 a.m. to 11:10 a.m. which will feature two local authors who teach film and screen writing. Frank McAdams of Dana Point teaches at USC and his book, The American War Film: History and Hollywood, provides extensive history and analysis on patriotism versus
propaganda. McAdams’ memoir, Vietnam Rough Riders: A Convoy Commander’s Memoir, was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. Paul Seydor teaches at Chapman University and has a new book coming out by Northwestern READING WITH WRIGHT University Press (due out By Chris Wright Feb. 15) The Authentic Death and Contentious Afterlife of Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid: The Untold Story of Peckinpah’s Last Western Film. Seydor has written previously about Sam Peckinpah and considers him a master of American cinema. Our moderator David Ward is a director and screenwriter as well as a professor at Chapman University. His credits include: The Sting, The Milagro Beanfield War, Flyboys, The Mask of Zoro, Major League and Sleepless in Seattle. It’s going to be difficult choosing which panel to attend as we have so many interesting authors and moderators scheduled. Good luck choosing. Register for Literary Orange online at www.literaryorange.org or you may pick up a registration form at the library. For more information about upcoming events across the Orange County Public Libraries system, visit the website at www. ocpl.org. The site also provides access to online databases, digital copies of popular magazines, pdf copies of historical sheet music, ebooks, audiobooks, jobseeker resources and more. Chris Wright is not sure if he lives to read or if he reads to live. He has been a public librarian with the OC Public Libraries since 2006 and currently works at the Dana Point branch. 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
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 Page 10
See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
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DEL PRADO BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Luciana’s: Pull Up a Seat at the Family Table Third generation restaurateur invites guests as friends to enjoy a traditional Italian meal BY THE CITY OF DANA POINT, SPECIAL TO THE DANA POINT TIMES
A
t 101 years old Mary Vallera still worries about her pasta. If Vallera had it her way, she’d actually be in the kitchen overseeing operations, making certain each of her recipes was executed with precision. But these days she has to take grandson Jorge Luhan II’s word. Chefs at Luciana’s Ristorante know the recipes, he confirms
when asked. They’ve learned from the best. It is with the same great care and passion for tradition that they craft Vallera’s Italian classics, from penne puttanesca to ravioli de vitello—handmade ravioli served in a wild mushroom ragu. Even though she hasn’t been a daily kitchen fixture for years, Vallera’s presence reverberates throughout Luciana’s, which has served up traditional, regional Italian dishes since 1983. Nonna’s signature is not only on the dishes, it is also on the overall restaurant experience that stems directly from the family table. And at the start of its 32nd year, Luhan, a third generation restaurateur, is ensuring his family rituals and grandma’s recipes are carried on at his mother Lucia Luhan’s namesake bistro Luciana’s Ristorante. Originally from the Abruzzo province, the Varella family came to the United States in the late-1930s and brought along their deep-rooted cultural customs. One of the family’s treasured traditions continues to this day, both at home and at Luciana’s, meals between family and friends that stretch for hours. “We share this ideal that was instilled in us when we were younger,” Luhan said. “Luciana’s isn’t just a restaurant; it is everyone around a big table sharing their ideas and thoughts. Here, it is like hosting a dinner party at your house every night and treating guests like they are friends not customers.” This nightly, cuisine-centric gathering began three decades ago when Lucia Luhan opened Luciana’s Ristorante in a
Luciana’s Ristorante. Photo: Courtesy
historic cottage on Del Prado Avenue. Luciana’s was the third restaurant for Luhan who strayed from an earlier casual deli and bistro model to form an elegant Italian escape in Dana Point. While the restaurant form changed, one constant remained— Vallera’s kitchen presence, practicing her craft. At just 6 years old, Vallera began making pastas by hand. She continued crafting handmade pastas—from fettuccini to ravioli—for more than nine decades. Well into her 90s, Mary worked side by side Luciana’s staff to deliver patrons her signature dishes. She’s since hung up her apron, but not on her own accord. Retired or not, Vallera remains curious
about the state and implementation of her recipes. It is that fervor for family, food and tradition that Jorge Luhan carries on. From his dining table to Luciana’s Ristorante, Luhan ensures that dinner around the table is the most important time. “At Luciana’s, we have the opportunity to sit and talk with customers to learn who that are and what they want,” Luhan said, all part of the dinner party he hopes lasts well into the future. DP Luciana’s Ristorante 24312 Del Prado Avenue 949.661.6500 www.lucianas.com
GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
When Internet Dating Doesn’t Work, Try Other Options
E
ach New Year, most older singles evaluate their single status. Many contact me in January for advice. This week, Susan, emailed: “What is the best dating site for over 60? I’m having a lot of trouble finding one for women like me who are young at heart, look much younger than their age and are very active. I have kept myself in good shape, but all of the men that could be my counterpart want younger women. What is a woman to do?” I responded, “Often, I hear from women who have the same complaint. Internet dating does not work for everyone. Perhaps try things other than the Internet.” Susan said, “I’m 72 and I think I’m maybe just too old now to play the game. I was a real head turner in my day and now get a glance now and then. My friends do not know of anyone. There is one man I fell pretty hard for about 15 years ago, maybe I should look him up.
Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
I responded, “Yes, look him up. If that doesn’t work, simply say, ‘Next!’ Keep your eyes and ears open. Don’t give up, you are never too old. Reach out, help people, even volunteer. The main thing is to be out among ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 new people.” By Tom Blake Susan said, “I do volunteer and work out at a gym four or five times a week. I did meet someone there, but after a couple of dates, which I enjoyed, he told me he was married. My luck, as they say. I don’t click with a lot of men and I could be dating a lot, but I want to feel magic again and that is why I am still holding out. I have not felt magic in the last 15 years.” I responded, “Working out is great. It’s so important to keep the body moving. OK, so you found out he was married. At
least you gave it a go until you found that out. More importantly, you ended the relationship. Married guys are off limits. They need to get things taken care of at home before they start messing around. “As far as looking for the magic you felt 15 years ago, nearly all singles would like to find that, but is that realistic? It probably won’t happen. But, being with a kind, considerate person, to whom you might be somewhat attracted, is the modern-day magic for singles 60-plus. “Keep your spirit up, and be thankful for what you have. You are on the right path. Perhaps find a couple of women friends to pal around with. You will meet some men along the way.” One suggestion for Susan and other south Orange County singles would be to attend the singles age 50+ Meet and Greet at Tutor and Spunky’s, the Dana Point deli on the last Thursday of each month. After a two-month hiatus during the holidays,
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the next event is Thursday, Jan. 29, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. There is no cost. Over the past two and a half years, approximately 15 couples have formed, having met at these events. Upcoming Events • Thursday, Jan. 29, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Age 50+ singles Meet and Greet, Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, Dana Point, 949.248.9008, for questions, no cost • Sunday, Feb. 15. 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sunday at the Bookstore, San Juan Capistrano Library, local author lecture series, featuring romance writers. Tom Blake will be discussing senior dating, his newspaper column and his dating and relationship books. 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 SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Dolphin Report BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES
For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the Dana Hills High School winter sports programs, follow us on Twitter. @SouthOCsports. For a full version of this week’s Dolphin Report, visit www.danapointtimes.com.
Tritons Put a Stop to Dolphins Momentum in 3-0 Win The Dana Hills High School girls soccer team had been cruising along in South Coast League play, picking up back to back wins over Capistrano Valley and Mission Viejo, before traveling to play rival San Clemente on Jan. 20. But the Dolphins could not match the Tritons physicality, as San Clemente barnstormed their way to a convincing 3-0 victory on their home turf. San Clemente (4-8-2, 2-2 league) pressed the Dolphins (8-7-1, 2-1) early and caused confusion off long throw-ins in the first 20 minutes. Following a long Tritons throw-in near the box in the 22nd minute, the Dolphins tried to clear a loose ball but instead, the effort found the foot of San
Clemente’s Sophia Spralja, who buried home the put-back to take a 1-0 lead. After anticipating another long San Clemente throw-in in stoppage time, the Dolphins crowded the box, which left Ellie Winkelmann unmarked on the wing. A short throw-in set up a wide open shot for the San Clemente striker, who sent home a curling shot into the back of the net for a 2-0 advantage. Dana Hills did not have many chances in the match, but nearly scored in the first half when a cross was re-directed by freshman Reid Morrison across the face of the Tritons goal. San Clemente sophomore keeper Lauren Brzykcy made a fingertip save to deny the Dolphins their best chance. Dolphins head coach Carrie Taylor said the Martin Luther King holiday threw a mini kink in the team’s momentum heading into the match and her team was not able to respond to the Tritons first-half scoring barrage. “With the holiday, little bit of rust I think. We started the game kind of on our heels. San Clemente is very physical, we let them body us around a little bit in the first half,” Taylor said. “We’re a team, that if we score first, we can hold leads. If we give up goals, we have trouble coming back. In the first half we didn’t match their physicality.” The Dolphins were set to play a pivotal league match against first-place Aliso Niguel on Jan. 22. Results were not available at press time. DP
San Clemente’s Sophia Spralja, left, evades the Dana Hills defense on Jan. 20. Photo: KDahlgren Photography
Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
Dana Hills pitcher Marrick Crouse throws during the MLK Tournament. Photo: KDahlgren Photography
Dolphins Baseball Prospects In Action at MLK Tourney BY LES LUKACH, SPECIAL TO THE DANA POINT TIMES
T
he JSerra Catholic baseball program put on their annual Martin Luther King Jr. preseason baseball tournament over the weekend. Dana Hills High School was chosen, among several other area programs, as a designated host site for some of the top teams from the southland. Les Lukach, who has covered prep baseball for five years and served as an associate scout for a Major League Baseball club, runs a dedicated sports blog, www.socalhsbaseball.blogspot.com, and got out to some games to take notes on up and coming Dolphins prospects. Here is what he observed over the weekend. Be sure to follow Lukach on Twitter @LesLukach. 2017 RHP Hans Crouse: After recently decommitting from Mississippi State, Crouse has a number of Pac-12, Big 12, and ACC schools interested in his services and it’s easy to see why. He continues to impress with a fastball that works in the 89-93 mph range and a developing curveball that works in the 78-82 mph range. The intriguing part of Crouse is his arm speed that is off the charts good. He showed this weekend that he is not fearful of throwing his curveball in any count, which is rare in younger pitchers for whom that is not their primary pitch. I’d expect him to continue to add mass to his frame and potentially more velocity on his pitches. He needs to develop a third pitch in the next year in order to be a frontline college or pro prospect. 2015 UTIL Luke Williams (Cal Poly SLO): Williams is a flat out ballplayer that
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brings so many tools to the table, starting with his speed and instincts on the bases. A plus runner, he is a threat to swipe a bag against righties or lefties. Playing shortstop for the Dolphins shows his versatility given he’ll likely move to the outfield in college. Williams has really worked on developing his hit tool, which has gotten better over the last year. No longer simply a contact hitter, Williams is showing the ability to drive the ball to all parts of the ballpark. 2016 C David Clawson (BYU): A recent transfer from Mater Dei, where he started on varsity as a catcher last year, Clawson has really improved his hitting tool and it showed this weekend with his three standup doubles against Alemany. Already a consistent, above average catcher, Clawson is certain to garner the attention of pro scouts if he continues to hit because left-handed hitting offensive catchers are at a premium at the pro level. 2015 RHP Marrick Crouse (USF): The ace of last year’s staff will presumably continue in that role again this year. Working in the 89-92 mph range with his fastball, it is his developing breaking ball that has scouts intrigued. Despite having thrown a lot of innings during the showcase circuit over the summer and fall, Crouse continues to show a knack for getting outs and missing bats. His mental toughness on the mound sets him apart from other high ranking prospects in this year’s draft class. Others to watch: 2015 1B – Jay Schuyler 2015 3B/RHP – Zach Wolf 2017 1B/P – Joey DeBaca DP www.danapointtimes.com
LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com
AUTO REPAIR
Dana Point Auto
34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086
CAFE - DELI
Coffee Importers Espresso Bar
34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com
COFFEE SHOP
Coffee Importers Espresso Bar
34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com
DANCE/FITNESS
Club Salsa Dance Studio
34202 Camino Capistrano Capistrano Beach, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com
Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
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
24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, pat.powers@cox.net
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!
State Farm/Ted Bowersox
Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online.
Statefarm/Elaine LaVine
Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204, 949.661.3200, www.tedbowersox.com 34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net
MUSIC INSTRUCTION
Danman’s Music School
24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com
PET GROOMING
Dawgy Style Groom Shop
34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, 949.496.3315, www.dawgystylegroomshop.net
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PLUMBING
Chick’s Plumbing
949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com
REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL
Dream Team Properties, Mike Rosenberg, Broker 949.481.1788, www.FindMyOCHome.com
SCHOOLS
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org
UPHOLSTERY
Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 34212 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit C, 949.240.9569 www.jeddys.com
Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com.
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USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.danapointtimes.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@ thecapistranodispatch.com
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DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY
DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet
CLASSIFIEDS
Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR LEASE OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE SJC Premiere office space in downtown San Juan Capistrano available ASAP. Newly refurbished with new paint, carpet and upgraded bathroom. Located on second floor, 550 sf, 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 $1250/mo. Please contact Susan Whalen at (805) 543-1794 with your interest.
GARAGE SALES MEGA – HUGE – 20+ FAMILY GARAGE SALE When: Saturday, January 24, 6am – 12pm Where: Dana Hills High School parking lot – 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 Why: Dana Hills High School Dance Team Fundraiser! Come buy our stuff and support our girls raising money for competition season. What: A little bit of everything! Books, collectibles, antiques, games, kitchen appliances, dishes, furniture, desks, chairs, cabinets, purses, shoes, clothing and so much more! Enjoy coffee and baked goods while you shop! YARD SALE: SATURDAY, JAN. 24. 7AM 26341 Calle Roberto, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Items for Sale: Baby and Childrens Items- Strollers, Bike, Car Seats, Swings, bather, papsan chair, and many designer clothes at great prices!
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com Deadline 5 p.m. Monday. No phone calls please.
HELP WANTED LOOKING FOR ELECTRICIAN with residential/ commercial exp. Must be able to work San Diego, LA, OC, and IE. Health/401K/Profit shr/Pd vac./Holidays Pre employ Drug screen 714-678-0088 App by appoint.
Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
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DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
RESULTS WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 6, January 17-18, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty Key: San Clemente=SC, Dana Point=DP, Capistrano Beach=CB, San Juan Capistrano=SJC.
Jeff Jessee of San Clemente won the Legends 50+ division at Western Surfing Association event No. 6, Saturday at Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty. Photo: Jack McDaniel
Winning Rides at O’Side
Dozens of tri-city surfers made trophy rounds at Oceanside Harbor South Jetty WSA event BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES
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ith two dawn-to-dusk days of competition in 26 divisions, for surfers, making it through to a final can involve anything from a stacked straight-to-final heat to a long, hard road beginning with 60 surfers and advancing through many challenging rounds. On Jan. 17 and 18 in Oceanside at the Western Surfing Association’s sixth event of the season, morning temperatures in the 30s—courtesy of a frigid off-shore wind— gave way to warm and sunny afternoons. And as the days heated up, so did the surfing. For 39 local tri-city area surfers, claiming a spot on the podium was the exciting culmination to a day of competition in beautiful, glassy conditions at Oceanside Harbor’s South Jetty. Well overhead for the groms, the weekend waves offered ample opportunity for competitors from the U9 Micro Grom Push-in division through Legends Over 50 to showcase their prowess on shortboards, longboards, and in the case of the Adaptive division, prone boards and wave skis. The weekend’s winningest surfer Cameron Duby, hailing from San Juan Capistrano, took home a trio of trophies, winning the Girls U16, taking third in Girls U18 and logging a fifth-place finish in Girls Longboard U18. Kevin Skvarna, also from San Juan, came in third in both Open Men Longboard and Jr. Longboard U18. Other San Juan finalists included siblings Teresa and Patrick O’Connor—Patrick was sixth in Boys U12 and Teresa second in Girls Longboard U18—and Allie Frost with a third-place in Open Women.
Dana Point Times January 23-29, 2015
The Dana Point/Capistrano Beach area was not short on finalists either. Rachael Tilly of Capo Beach took home a pair of wins in Girls U18 Longboard and Open Women Longboard, along with the Kind Snacks High Wave Score of the Day Award for an average 9.83 score out of 10. Another double finalist from Dana Point, Izzy Hopkins, was third in Girls Longboard U14 and fifth in Girls U14. Bella Kenworthy (Dana Point) was the weekend’s best in Micro Grom Girls U10. Capo Beach surfers Kyla Kelly and Riley Branom were sixth-place finishers in Girls Longboard U18 and Boys Longboard U14, respectively. Twenty-two San Clemente surfers made it to the awards round, the top finishers being double finalists Dane Matson with a win in U10 shortboard and a fifth-place finish in Boys U12 and Kaimana Takayama who was runner up in Jr. Longboard U18 and fourth in Open Men Longboard. Jimmy Bray was the Masters 30-39 sixthplace finisher and after doing double duty as push-in coach for his twin boys, Makai Bray was second and Maddox Bray third in Micro Grom Boys U9. Other San Clementeans making podium appearances were adult competitors Jeff Jessee, Masaki Kobayashi and Cody Canzoneri. SC grom finalists were Peyton Shaw, Sawyer Lindblad, Taj Lindblad, Kirra Pinkerton, Bryce Pinkerton, Sierra Downer, Conan Craig, Nicholas Coli, Hagan Johnson, Noah Hohenester, Jimmy Wynne, Tommy Coleman, Malia Mauch and Lexi Morgan. The next WSA of the season is scheduled for February 14 and 15 at the Huntington Beach Pier. DP
MICRO GROM BOYS U9: 1. Eli Park, Carlsbad; 2. Makai Bray, SC; 3. Maddox Bray, SC; 4. Hudson Saunders, Laguna Beach; 5. Jaxson Hutcheon, Laguna Beach; 6. Peyton Shaw, SC. MICRO GROM GIRLS U10: 1. Bella Kenworthy, DP; 2. Sawyer Lindblad, SC; 3. Lauren Anderson, Long Beach; 4. Mara Morales, Huntington Beach; 5. Kili Garrett, Cardiff-by-the-Sea; 6. Sierra Downer, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Dane Matson, SC; 2. Lucas Owston, Oceanside; 3. Luke Butterfield, Encinitas; 4. Hayden Rodgers, Laguna Beach; 5. Bryce Pinkerton, SC; 6. Conan Craig, SC. BOYS U12: 1. Levi Slawson, Encinitas; 2. Nicholas Coli, SC; 3. Taj Lindblad, SC; 4. William Mitchell, Oceanside; 5. Dane Matson, SC; 6. Patrick O’Connor, SJC. BOYS U14: 1. Griffin Foy, Huntington Beach; 2. Hagan Johnson, SC; 3. Taro Watanabe, Malibu; 4. Caleb Crozier, Encinitas; 5. Jabe Swierkocki, Ventura; 6. Jackson Butler, Encinitas. BOYS U16: 1. Gavin Doan, Carlsbad; 2. Sean Turberville, Carlsbad; 3. Ethan Mudge, CB; 4. Rodrigo Bandeira, Oxnard; 5. Noah Hohenester, SC; 6. Ben Seaberry, Huntington Beach. BOYS U18: 1. Ethan Grant, Carlsbad; 2. Jake Wetzel, Carlsbad; 3. Christopher Kervin, Newport Beach; 4. Grayson Amthor, Encinitas; 5. Michael Dennis, Carlsbad; 6. Ted Schultz, Cardiff-by-the-Sea. GIRLS U12: 1. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad; 2. Ella McCaffray, Cardiffby-the-Sea; 3. Jenna Clark, La Mesa; 4. Makenna Doan, San Diego; 5. Bryce Ava Wettstein, Encinitas; 6. Noelle Walker, El Cajon. GIRLS U14: 1. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad; 2. Bryce Pinkerton, SC; 3. Kayla Coscino, Laguna Beach; 4. Sydney Tisdel, Carlsbad; 5. Izzy Hopkins, DP; 6. Kelly Smith, Laguna Beach. GIRLS U16: 1. Cameron Duby, SJC; 2. Sydney Tisdel, Carlsbad; 3. Joceline Marchand, Carlsbad; 4. Kiersten Noonan, Encinitas; 5. Peyton Slater, Carlsbad; 6. Kayla Coscino, Laguna Beach. GIRLS U18: 1. Maya Saulino, San Marcos; 2. Kiersten Noonan, Encinitas; 3. Cameron Duby, SJC; 4. Frankie Seely, Topanga; 5. DaniRose Hill, San Diego; 6. Sierra Garcia, Long Beach. BOYS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Koby Gilchrist, Encinitas; 2. Ben Kappes, Laguna Niguel; 3. Jimmy Wynne, SC; 4.
Riley Branom, DP; 5. Kasey Bowles, La Jolla; 6. Tommy Coleman, SC. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 1. Trevor Anderberg, Encinitas; 2. Kaimana Takayama, SC; 3. Kevin Skvarna, SJC; 4. Benjamin Goldstein, Carlsbad; 5. Andrew Neal, Manhattan Beach; 6. Koby Gilchrist, Encinitas. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Liv Stokes, Aliso Viejo; 2. Betsey Lee, Topanga; 3. Izzy Hopkins, DP; 4. Malia Mauch, SC; 5. Sydney Zoehrer, Coronado; 6. Lexi Morgan, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U18: 1. Rachael Tilly, CB; 2. Teresa O’Connor, SJC; 3. Frankie Seely, Topanga; 4. Soleil Errico, Malibu; 5. Cameron Duby, SJC; 6. Kyla Kelley, CB. MEN 18-29: 1. Jared Boyd, Hermosa Beach; 2. Matthew Gentilucci, Los Osos; 3. Evan Sandison, Laguna Niguel; 4. Clinton Manley, Redondo Beach; 5. Simon Torres, El Segundo; 6. Andrew Fish, Venice. MASTERS 30-39: 1. Paul Pugliesi, Oceanside; 2. Sean O’Toole, Ventura; 3. Michael Graney, Carlsbad; 4. Jonathan Warren, Huntington Beach; 5. Philip Salick, Los Angeles; 6. Jimmy Bray, SC. SENIOR MEN 40-49: 1. Gavin Haughey, Laguna Niguel; 2. Pedro Diaz Rangel, Oceanside; 3. Erik Krammer, Oceanside; 4. Donald Day, Topanga; 5. Vincent Duprat, Encinitas; 6. Rick Takahashi, San Diego. WOMEN 18+: 1. Brooke Daigneault, Huntington Beach; 2. Michelle Watson, Ventura; 3. Katelyn Springer, Newport Beach; 4. Maddie LoMonaco, Santa Monica; 5. Morgan Gore, Mendham, NJ; 6. Emma Roll, Santa Monica. LEGENDS 50+: 1. Jeff Jessee, SC; 2. Rusty Phillipy, Cardiff-by-the-Sea; 3. Michael Boyd, Hermosa Beach; 4. Ray Kunz, Oceanside; 5. Tom Matthews, San Diego; 6. Masaki Kobayashi, SC. OPEN MEN: 1. Paul Pugliesi, Oceanside; 2. Cody Canzoneri, SC; 3. Skylar Stokes, Del Mar; 4. Gavin Haughey, Laguna Niguel; 5. Jonathan Warren, Huntington Beach; 6. Tom Matthews, San Diego. OPEN WOMEN: 1. Maddie LoMonaco, Santa Monica; 2. Maya Saulino, San Marcos; 3. Allie Frost, SJC; 4. Morgan Gore, Mendham, NJ; 5. Brooke Daigneault, Huntington Beach; 6. Avery Johnson, Carlsbad. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 1. Trevor Anderberg, Encinitas; 2. Nick Anderberg, Encinitas; 3. Kevin Skvarna, SJC; 4. Kaimana Takayama, SC; 5. Koby Gilchrist, Encinitas; 6. Philip Salick, Los Angeles. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Rachael Tilly, CB; 2. Katelyn Springer, Newport Beach; 3. Maddie LoMonaco, Santa Monica; 4. Liv Stokes, Aliso Viejo; 5. Keili McEvilly, Carlsbad; 6. Emma Roll, Santa Monica. SR. MEN LONGBOARD 40+: 1. Benjamin Murphey, San Diego; 2. Troy Campbell, Torrance; 3. Larry Casas, Huntington Beach; 4. Raul Cabada, Long Beach. ADAPTIVE SURFERS: 1. Charles Webb, Oceanside; 2. Chris Oberle, Los Angeles; 3. Mark Thornton, Carlsbad.
GROM OF THE WEEK
RILEY KRAATZ
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iley Kraatz, 12, is ready to take his surfing competition to the next level. A two-year team member of the Bernice Ayer Middle School surf team—competing on both short and longboards—he is planning on adding late season Western Surfing Association Championship Tour events to his Scholastic Surf Series schedule this year. And then next year, he will surf the full WSA season. Riley started surfing at the age of 6, with his dad, but really got into it when he was 10. “I love the people who surf and the whole culture,” he said. “It’s a lot of fun to be out there in the lineup with everyone. Most of the time everyone gets along and are friends.” Now a straight-A student in seventh grade, Riley enjoys doing well in school and says it is important to him. “My mom is really happy with my grades, and so am I,” he said. “I take school pretty seriously because if I don’t, I won’t be able to surf and play water polo. Also just I really like getting good grades.” Riley’s hopes for surfing in the future include competing through high school. “I want to do as many contests as I can throughout the year,” he said. “But most of
Riley Kraatz. Photo: Patty Kraatz
all, I want to have fun with it.” Riley would like his first job to be working as a lifeguard, an interest he developed through participation in Junior Lifeguards. His future career interests include becoming a surfboard shaper or a water polo coach. He hopes to work alongside a shaper this summer to begin learning the craft while shaping his own longboard. Riley loves surfing all the local breaks but traveling to new ones plays a big part in his love of surfing. Road trips up the coast to Pismo Beach and El Capitan are two of his favorite short trips. He is hoping to travel to Mexico this summer with his family. “Growing up surfing and enjoying the beautiful weather in San Clemente is so fun—not like the people who have to live in the hot weather in Arizona,” Riley said. “I feel very lucky to be living the life I have.” —Andrea Swayne www.danapointtimes.com