February 27, 2015

LO C A L

February 27-March 5, 2015

N EWS

YO U

C A N

INSIDE: Official Festival of Whales Program

U S E

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 9

A Happy Heart Dana Point woman starts social enterprise inspired by her heart condition E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

Heidi Burns, from Dana Point, is finding happiness as an entrepreneur, sharing a positive message inspired by surviving two surgeries to correct her congenital heart defect. Burns is shown here at USC where she’s studying social entrepreneurship. Photo: Madi Swayne

City Begins Discussion of Potential Changes to Town Center Plan EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

First Shop Del Prado Contest Winner Selected EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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Late Goal Pushes Edison past Dolphins Soccer in CIF SPORTS/PAGE 10

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DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING lected from among all the Del Prado business receipts submitted. Entrants receive one raffle ticket for every $10 spent. Prize packages include an overnight resort stay, meals for two and a recreational activity, all donated by local businesses.

Dr. Marc Taub and wife Kara Taub, of Dana Point, won by submitting a Luxe Restaurant & Martini Bar receipt and were awarded an overnight stay at the St. Regis, dinner for two at Salt Creek Grille and two Orange County Wine Cruises from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

According to Heather Johnston, the chamber’s executive director, a total of 1,012 receipts, totaling $10,357.99 spent on Del Prado, were turned in during the month of January. For February, more than $8,000 worth of receipts have been turned in so far.

“The program has been very successful in highlighting and encouraging shopping on Del Prado,” Johnston said. “And we want to thank all the business owners who have donated prize packages.”

The first winners of the Shop Del Prado Contest were presented with their prizes on Feb. 13 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort. Shown here (L to R) are Heather Johnston, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce executive director; contest winners Kara Taub and Dr. Marc Taub, and Joe Martino, director of sales and marketing for the St. Regis. Photo: Courtesy

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week City Begins Discussion on Potential Changes to Town Center Plan THE LATEST: In a joint Dana Point City Council and Planning Commission meeting on Feb. 25, a study session commenced discussion of potential changes to the Town Center Plan.

Ursula Luna-Reynosa, community development director; John Tilton, city architect and Patrick Seigman of Nelson Nygaard, the consulting firm that prepared the Town Center Parking Study, made presentations related to current standards called for by the TCP and proposed changes.

Proposals for the adoption of a new Parking Management Plan included recommendations to lease or purchase private lots for shared parking use, develop a coordinated wayfinding sign program to direct visitors to parking and adopt requirements tailored to a mixed-use district, with emphasis on creating a “park once” pedestrian-friendly environment.

Public comments against the proposal were critical of recommendations that would reduce required parking spaces for businesses, short-term leases of existing lots and the allowance of in lieu spaces and in lieu fees of $40,000 per space from developers to satisfy parking spaces not provided.

Changes to the method of measuring maximum building heights, allowing upDana Point Times February 27-March 5, 2015

per floor setback credits and open space credits for developers choosing larger frontage setbacks were also proposed.

A need for proposed changes have come to light as a result of city staff now having an opportunity to apply the standards set in the TCP when it was adopted in 2008, to actual projects.

Since 2008, eight applications for new mixed-use or commercial improvement projects have been submitted. Two new mixed-use projects have been approved, as well as one new commercial/retail building.

WHAT’S NEXT: Changes will be made to the proposed plan, in response to study session discussion and public comment, and then it will be scheduled for public hearings before the Planning Commission and City Council before being presented to the California Coastal Commission for approval, Luna-Reynosa said.

Mayor Carlos Olvera asked that the discussion be continued to a second study session before moving the proposals to public hearings.

FIND OUT MORE: For more, visit www. danapointtimes.com.—Andrea Swayne

First Shop Del Prado Winner Selected THE LATEST: The first winners of the Shop Del Prado Contest were presented with their prizes on Feb. 13 at the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort.

Shop Del Prado is part of a joint effort by the city and the Chamber of Commerce to support businesses on Del Prado Avenue during Town CenterLantern District construction by rewarding customers for shopping, dining and purchasing services in the area.

In a monthly drawing, a winner is se-

WHAT’S NEXT: Receipts can be taken to the Chamber of Commerce office at 24681 La Plaza, Suite 115, or via email to shopdelprado@gmail.com. Emailed entries must include a copy or photo of the receipt along with the shopper’s name, phone number, email address and home zip code.

The contest is set to run through October.

The prize for February is an overnight stay at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, dinner for two at Luciana’s Ristorante and two Marine Mammal Adventure Cruise passes from the Ocean Institute.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.dplanterndistrict.com.—AS

CUSD Approves New School of Choice Policy THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees passed a new school of choice policy at their Feb. 25 meeting, which will only apply to the 2015-16 school year. Dozens of worried parents attended the meeting to speak about topics including the issue of splitting up siblings, giving teachers’ kids priority to attend the same school, guaranteeing students in the immersion programs can complete their courses, and prioritizing students living in CFDs. Superintendent Kirsten Vital began the meeting by saying there isn’t a “perfect solution,” and the district is at a “tipping point” with under-enrolled and over-enrolled schools. Under the new policy, new families coming into the district after next year will not be guaranteed sibling priority, employees will get priority for their kids at schools that aren’t full, and students living in CFDs will have first priority overall.

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WHAT’S NEXT: The policy was approved by a 6-1 vote, with board member John Alpay dissenting.—Allison Jarrell

Sea Summit Infrastructure Work Targeting March Completion THE LATEST: Due in part to utility coordination issues, it now appears infrastructure work, including the opening of a trail system at the Sea Summit residential development at Marblehead—at the Capistrano Beach/San Clemente border—as well as the opening of West Avenida Vista Hermosa, is now scheduled for March after earlier projections had put the opening at the end of February.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city of San Clemente hopes to have the road opened up by the time the Avenida Pico overpass bridge is dismantled as part of the Interstate 5 widening and construction of a new interchange, to allow for an additional east-west route through the city. Taylor Morrison, the developer of the 300-plus homes in the project, is slated to begin construction on model homes this month.

—Jim Shilander

Environmental Activist Leaves Edison Decommissioning Panel THE LATEST: Residents Organized for a Safe Environment founder Gene Stone has resigned his place on the Southern California Edison’s Community Education Panel on the decommissioning of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, effective March 1.

Stone said he had grown frustrated with what he believed was “lip-service” being paid to his point of view as essentially the designated anti-nuclear voice on the panel.

“I was asked to provide a point of view, which I feel I did,” Stone said. “But it seemed like I would bring up a point, we would go over it and it would be glossed over, like it was checked off.”

Stone said he also made the decision, in part, due to recent revelations of “ex parte communications” between a then-employee and then-California Public Utilities Commission president Michael Peevey at an industry event prior to the shutdown of the plant in 2013.

WHAT’S NEXT: No timeline has been set for replacing Stone on the panel, according to an Edison spokesperson. The CEP’s next meeting is not scheduled until April.—JS

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

Living with a Happy Heart Dana Point woman starts social enterprise inspired by her heart condition

BY EVAN DA SILVA, DANA POINT TIMES

H

appiness. For most, it’s a simple feeling made complex by the infinite possibilities of its origin and ways to reach it as a destination.

For Heidi Burns, a 26-year-old Dana Point native, and her social enterprise apparel company, Project Happy Hearts, happiness isn’t just an important thing, it’s the only thing. It’s her vision, her message and her life. And the question she asked herself while recovering from surgery for a congenital heart defect—what makes your heart happy—is the premise upon which it was built.

Burns’ company sells a line of clothing sporting messages of happiness, grants wishes to children with congenital heart defects (CHD) and donates a portion of proceeds to CHD-related organizations.

Burns’ own CHD has, at times, made happiness difficult to achieve. Despite this, her desire to live life and spread a message central to finding what makes one happy has only grown stronger.

Born at Children’s Hospital Orange County, Burns was on a private jet to Boston Children’s Hospital just five days after her birth. There she would have open-heart surgery after being diagnosed with transposition of the greater vessels, a form of CHD in which the two main arteries carrying blood away from the heart are reversed. At the time, Burns was only the 100th baby to have an arterial switch operation, or “switch” surgery, at the only

Heidi Burns’ company Project Happy Hearts granted the wish—snowboard equipment—heart patient, Jeremiah Verhines, 13, of Dana Point. Photo: Courtesy

Dana Point Times February 27-March 5, 2015

Lily Rhodes (left) recently joined Project Happy Hearts owner Heidi Burns as the company’s first employee.

Both women are from Dana Point. Photo: Courtesy

hospital in the world that had been successful in the procedure.

According to American Heart Association, about 32,000 children, or eight out of every 1,000, are born with a heart defect each year in the United States. Over 1.3 million Americans alive today are afflicted with a form of CHD. The Children’s Heart Foundation reports the incidence of CHD in children a bit higher at one out of 100, or 40,000 per year. Despite these numbers, Burns still feels awareness for CHD is far too low.

“I 100 percent do not think it gets enough attention,” Burns said. ”And to be honest, I didn’t know those numbers until I started Project Happy Hearts.”

Because resources and information available to parents of children with CHD are lacking, her goal, she said, is to raise what she feels is much needed awareness.

After her first surgery, Heidi spent the following years living a normal life, aside from her annual visit to the cardiologist.

She traveled, became a national champion gymnast and ran cross-country at Dana Hills High School. At age 17, however, she began having pain in her chest.

“I was running track and literally keeled-over and thought I was having a heart-attack,” she said. “I called my dad and we went to the emergency room ... I literally thought I was going to die.”

For the next eight years, the doctor’s visits continued and the pain would occasionally reappear. Burns graduated from Dana Hills in 2006 and attended college at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. At the age of 25, it was determined she would need a second open-heart surgery.

That surgery, in 2014, involved the removal of her heart from her body during the procedure to undo a myocardial bridge, a condition in which one of the coronary arteries tunnels through the myocardium—the middle muscular layer of the heart wall—instead of resting on top of it.

“Going into the second heart surgery, I packed a bag for the hospital because I was scheduled to be there for a week,” Burns said. “I packed all black clothes thinking I was going to die.”

Waking up from that surgery, Burns said, forever changed her life and who she is as a person.

“When I woke up, I was happy,” she said. “I just decided at that moment I wanted to live a life that was just the best life ever.”

That moment of “waking up happy” became the main impetus for Project Happy Hearts.

The company started as a social media campaign, featuring pictures of people holding signs asking the question, “What makes your heart happy?” In August 2014, Project Happy Hearts launched its first T-shirt design reading “I woke up this happy.” Since then, the company’s online sales have grown considerably. Happy Hearts shirts were also available locally, for a time, at Camellia Boutique in Dana Point.

Though based in Los Angeles, Burns would like to see the company—both the clothing line and grant program—become as prevalent in Dana Point as possible.

“Dana Point is my home base,” Burns said.

Burns runs the company as its CEO but has recently brought on Lily Rhodes, also of Dana Point, who updates the company’s blog, maintains its newsletter, prepares events and assists in day-to-day operations.

Twenty percent of the company’s profits are put into a fund donated monthly to organizations researching, raising awareness and providing support for CHD patients. The website includes a “give back” feature where supporters can give directly to some of the organizations in any amount. Though the primary focus now is on the clothing line, manufacturing other projects through partnerships with major nationwide corporations, including

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a customizable gift that would be available on site for hospital patients, are in the works.

“We’re looking to partner with some cool give-back companies, Burns said. “We have a lot in the pipeline.”

Project Happy Hearts has also begun a “grant a wish” program, which makes a personal connection with families and children facing CHDs. One of the program’s first beneficiaries is Dana Point’s Jeremiah Verhines.

Verhines, 13, suffers from Wolff Parkinson’s White Syndrome, a type of CHD in which there is an extra electrical pathway between the upper and lower chambers of the heart, causing a rapid and irregular heartbeat. The condition went undiagnosed until Dec. 27, 2014 when he suffered sudden cardiac arrest while spending a night at home with his family. After an 11-hour surgery, having an Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator installed in his chest and starting medication that controls his heart rhythm, Verhines has begun the healing process. Due to having gone 13 years with an undiagnosed CHD however, he developed a murmur and cardiomyopathy, an abnormality of the heart muscle, and will require further surgeries. Burns and her company have been with the Verhines along the way.

“Project Happy Hearts has been wonderful to Jeremiah. They surprised him with a new snowboard, boots and bindings a couple of days after he got out of CHOC. Heidi is such a blessing and her story has given my son, and us as a family, hope that our youngster can live a happy, active life,” said Verhines’ father, Jeremy Verhines, in an email. “Her cause brings happiness and joy to all of those she touches. Project Happy Hearts brought some cheer when Jeremiah needed it most.”

Jeremiah Verhines has a Facebook page, Hope for Jeremiah, to track his progress and raise funds to help with his medical bills.

Now pursuing a Master’s degree in social entrepreneurship at the USC Marshall School of Business, Burns hopes to continue to grow her company as well as expanding its outreach to other families by broadening her social media presence and holding more community events for awareness and fund-raising.

“My mission is to change how we all live our lives … to get people to ask themselves every single morning what makes their heart happy and then to go and do at least one of those things,” Burns said.

“I think that if you’re living to make your heart happy every day, you’re going to make really good decisions. Life is short, live it with a happy heart.”

To find out more about Burns and Project Happy Hearts, visit the website at www.projecthappyhearts.com, find them on Facebook, follow on Twitter @Project_HH and on Instagram @project_happyhearts. DP —Madi Swayne contributed to this article.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY EVAN DA SILVA AND ANDREA SWAYNE

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

Wednesday, February 25 CITIZEN ASSIST Street of the Golden Lantern, 33200 Block (12:17 a.m.) A man asked to speak to a deputy about “the weird people who live down the street.”

Tuesday, February 24 KEEP THE PEACE Mariner Drive, 23700 Block (8:20 p.m.)

A woman called deputies when a friend who had been staying with her for the past two weeks was refusing to leave.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Dana Drive, 24700 Block (7:58 a.m.)

Animal Control was called when a sea lion was seen walking down the street.

Monday, February 23 DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (2:41 p.m.) A man was refusing to leave the drive-thru area of the Starbucks parking lot. He was described as being 5 feet 5 inches tall, with brown hair and wearing a black/gray suit jacket, ripped jean shorts and blue eyeliner.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (1:05 p.m.) Three transients were reportedly taking their clothes off to bathe with water bottles at the Dana Marina Motel in the picnic area at the bench.

DISTURBANCE Alta Vista Drive, 24500 Block (8:18 a.m.)

Caller reported four juveniles halfway down an alleyway near a dumpster, handing something, possibly a joint, back and forth. The subjects reportedly smoke illegal drugs at the same location every morning before school and cause “malicious mischief” in the laundry rooms near the alley.

DISTURBANCE Del Gado Road, 26900 Block (4:36 a.m.)

A car horn was heard honking continuously for 10 minutes, northwest of the caller’s

location, possibly near the golf course clubhouse. The caller said the honking sounded like someone may have needed help or was trying to get attention.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Camino El Molino, 34200 Block (1:39 a.m.)

A barefoot woman wearing just a bra (on top) came to the caller’s front door saying she was being chased by someone.

WELFARE CHECK Christina Drive, 33000 Block (12:31 a.m.)

An elderly woman was afraid her stove would catch fire when she went to sleep.

The stove is electric and turned off but the woman was concerned because it wasn’t cooling fast enough.

Sunday, February 22 TRAFFIC HAZARD Street of the Amber Lantern/La Cresta Drive (5:12 p.m.) Several teens were in the middle of the street skateboarding and videotaping each other. The subjects were not moving for vehicle traffic and the caller was concerned they would be hit by a car.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Lantern Bay Drive, 34300 Block (4:31 p.m.)

A caller told police a man with a beard and green overcoat was in the gated garage.

The subject then followed the caller from the garage to the courtyard.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Real, 26900 Block (1:37 p.m.)

A man, described as being in his 20s with a shaved head and wearing a sleeveless white T-shirt and black pants, was seen running through a caller’s side yard into the back yard. The subject jumped the fence and continued toward Calle Maria.

Wednesday, February 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Street of Silver Lantern/La Cresta Drive (11:24 p.m.) A caller advised police of a man wearing a hoodie, acting suspicious and looking into houses.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Robles Drive, 33800 Block (9:46 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested after a silver Tacoma with four subjects inside was seen making contact with eight other subjects who were on foot. The caller believed it was part of a drug related exchange.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano, 34200 Block (4:14 p.m.) A caller reported a man using a staff or stick practicing martial arts between the complex and the freeway.

DRUNK DRIVING Pacific Coast Highway/Crown Valley Parkway (12:21 p.m.) A man in a white Ford Explorer was punching his steering wheel and swerving as drove.

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor TEN TOWN CENTER QUESTIONS ROXANNA WATROUS, Dana Point

Regarding the Town Center-Lantern District, concerned Dana Point residents want to know: 1. Exactly how much money have we spent on the Town Center project so far?

2. As of right now, what have we gotten for our money?

3. How long did it take Dana Point to save the money that was spent on Town Center?

4. How long, in concrete numbers, before we get a return on our Town Center investment?

5. How does around $20 million spent on palm trees and sidewalks financially incentivize developers or new desirable businesses to move into Dana Point Town Center?

6. Aside from the Majestic Project, how many other Town Center projects are underway?

7. Was the Majestic Project specifically enticed to develop base on our $20 million expenditure?

8. If the primary goal of the Town Center Plan was to create a vibrant shopping district while maintaining our small beach town atmosphere, how does approving a high density apartment development that looks like a prison, achieve this?

9. If we want a vibrant shopping district, why didn’t we pursue the types of businesses we want directly by providing tax breaks or other incentives instead of spending our money on palm trees and sidewalks? It’s like spending money on flowers to attract bees instead of just buying some honey.

10. Moving forward, what measures will the current City Council take to curtail this path of wasteful spending and uphold its fiduciary duty to the taxpayers?

For more information on Dana Point residents’ concerns regarding the Town Center project, please contact local civic advocate and attorney Roxanna Watrous at roxannawatrous@gmail.com.

MEMORIAL BROOKS NO COMPROMISE ELLEN PONCIANO, Dana Point

Most of my career has been spent in or

around healthcare. The local hospital has always been part of the whole community.

Staff and administration work with the community for the common good. This is especially the case when you have a not-for-profit hospital that is a “charity” 501(c)(3) governmental organization that receives tax free status to be available to the whole community.

Now MemorialCare wants to close San Clemente Hospital with very short notice to the community and the residents.

Although six months sounds like sufficient notice, it does not allow time for Dana Point, San Clemente or San Juan Capistrano to budget, staff and purchase equipment that the extra demands on paramedics and police—being out of our city in Mission Viejo, Laguna Hills or even further—will cause. It will take more time to get to these further locations—an average of 20 minutes to Mission Viejo and 23 minutes to Laguna Hills—and that’s without the construction that’s going on now on Interstate 5. That takes resources out of our city. What that means is if you need the paramedics they may not be available.

They will be tied up outside of the city.

This costs lives.

We all want to work with MemorialCare to explore alternate ways they can build their vision, but also how the communities’ needs can be met. Several ideas have been floated at city council meetings about building the advanced urgent care, surgery center, along with a boutique hospital and emergency room on the existing property. There is even money available from other sources to help MemorialCare do this.

As of this writing (Feb. 15), MemorialCare is still refusing all calls to work with the community, the doctors, the cities and is basically telling all of us “it’s their way or the highway.”

Please MemorialCare, if you won’t work with the community, sell this hospital to an organization that is willing and wants to be part of this community, there are buyers waiting.

MemorialCare, delay your March vote to close our hospital and work with us.

MemorialCare, this is about more than you making more money. It’s about saving lives in our community.

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.

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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

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

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

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

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander 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, Evan Da Silva, Kevin Dahlgren, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 8, Issue 9. 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 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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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

tion’s South Orange County Chapter in cleaning up Salt Creek Beach. Volunteers will meet at the basketball court. Supplies will be provided. 33333 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.625.5700, southoc.surfrider.org.

what books and programs you want.

Meeting is held in the Community Room and snacks will be served. No pre-registration needed. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

Sunday | 01

Tuesday | 03

WILDFLOWER WALK 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Join local wildflower expert Bob Allen on an exploration of The Reserve looking for early wildflowers.

Ages 8 and up. Adults $10, children $5.

Participants must be registered by 4 p.m. on Feb. 27. The Richard and Donna O’Neil Conservancy, call for directions, 949.923.2210, www.rmvreserve.org.

TODDLER AND PRESCHOOL STORYTIMES 10 a.m-10:30 a.m. Stories for children 18-35 months, 11 a.m.-11:30 a.m. for ages 3-5, accompanied by a parent or guardian. No pre-registration required.

Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 27 POUL PEDERSEN 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Taste blends from the West Coast’s smallest, finest wineries accompanied by vibrant small plates and live music. Wine tastings run from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and Saturday 2 p.m.-9 p.m. DaVine Food & Wine, 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

Saturday | 28

Monday | 02

DANIEL KRISTOFF 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at The Swallow’s Inn with steak night and happy hour prices. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.

SALT CREEK BEACH CLEANUP 9 a.m.-noon. Join the Surfrider Founda-

TEEN ADVISORY BOARD AT DP LIBRARY 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Teens, tell the library

On Stage at the Coach House: Uriah Heep

BY CATHERINE MANSO, DANA POINT TIMES

U

riah Heep, an international rock band from the United Kingdom, will be coming to The Coach House on Thursday, March 12.

The band just started their tour on the East Coast and will be making their way across the country over the next two weeks. Some of their stops include Detroit, Milwaukee, Las Vegas and Beverly Hills.

“We get excited every time we make it to America, because we don’t come to America every year,” said drummer and singer Russell Gilbrook. “We know we have some fans that are really passionate about the band and we, of course, want to perform for them.”

The band will perform songs from their most recent album, “Outsider,” along with other tracks from the last four decades, including “Hanging Tree,” “Gypsy” and

Dana Point Times February 27-March 5, 2015

Photo: Courtesy

“Sunrise.”

Members of the progressive rock band include guitarist Mick Box, lead singer Bernie Shaw, keyboard player Phil Lanzon, drummer Russell Gilbrook and bassist Davey Rimmer.

“The band is on fire at the moment,” Gilbrook said. “The show that we give out is really rockin.’ It’s full of high energy, great songs and it’s definitely a concert worth going to.”

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $22, and dinner reservations with priority seating are also available.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. For tickets or more information call 949.496.8930 or go to www.thecoachhouse.com. DP Page 8

KARAOKE WITH LES AND JOEL 7 p.m. Every Tuesday at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.

Wednesday | 04 WATERLOGGED WEDNESDAYS MOVIE NIGHT Sundown. Hobie Surf Shop presents one Bruce Brown film per month through June 2015. Tonight’s movie is Surfing Hollow Days (1961). Free. 34174 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.496.2366.

Thursday | 05 GONE COUNTRY 8 p.m.-midnight. Country music and dancing at the Point Restaurant. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Friday | 06 WONDERS OF WYLAND RECEPTION 6:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Artist Wyland will do 12 sumi brush paintings live to be auctioned off at the event. Tickets are $125 with $25 going to support the Wyland Foundation.

Evening also includes gourmet cuisine, refreshments and a screening of film highlights from the artist’s 30-year campaign to create 100 life-size marine life murals around the world. The Terrace Salon at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, 1 RitzCarlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

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

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

A Call to Young Artists

A Festival of Whales Welcome

Festival field trip and logo contest put Dana Hills High School students in the spotlight

2nd: Stephanie Kuehle

Carlos N. Olvera, Mayor, City of Dana Point

The 44th anniversary of the Dana Point Festival of Whales celebration is upon us and the city of Dana Point welcomes you to these two weekends of events, whale watching excursions and adventure.

Over the years, Dana Point has become the premier location in Orange County to see these titanic marine mammals in their natural environment, the Pacific Ocean. This migration season has so far brought more than 2,800 different whales to local waters, including grays, humpback, orcas and some of the world’s largest dolphin stampedes.

The Festival of Whales is a wonderful chance to learn about and celebrate our ocean’s great creatures both on land and at sea via fun marinefocused educational opportunities.

This celebration also offers a large parade down Pacific Coast Highway on opening day, a pirate-inspired diamond dig in the sand, a carnival-style street fair, sand sculpting competition, clam chowder cook-off, art shows, hands-on arts and crafts, classic car displays, documentary screenings and more.

With miles of beaches and a rich history dating back to the cowhide trades of the 1830s, Dana Point is a five-star destination. So explore the city, the Dana Point Harbor, our tallship replicas and take the opportunity to go back in time to visualize the romance of seafaring days past. And while you are in the harbor, make sure to use the Festival of Whales free shuttle and low-cost water taxi to get around.

Enjoy yourself and welcome to the Dana Point Festival of Whales.

3rd: Kate Summer

4th: Joey Benrubi

5th: Kai Fowler

Each winter as gray whales begin to make their journey from Alaskan waters to Baja, nearly 100 fine arts students from Dana Hills High School take to the Pacific and visit the Ocean Institute with one assignment— to find inspiration.

They come prepared, with sketchbooks, pencils and cameras in hand, to soak in their surroundings and, with some luck, to observe the gray whale in its natural environment. From an excursion aboard a Dana Wharf whale watching vessel to exploring the Ocean Institute’s brig Pilgrim, young artists snap pictures, draw scenery and sketch wildlife while interacting with professional artists—to gain insight into the possibility of choosing a future career in art—and learning from conservationists about their muse, the gray whale.

It’s a trip hosted by the Dana Point Festival of Whales Foundation and aimed at inspiring students to create work to be shown among that of professional artists at the current year’s Art in the Park exhibition and to be entered in a logo design contest for a chance at branding the next year’s festival.

The program began in 2011 when Penny Elia, executive director of the festival, sought to engage youth in a new way. Since then, hundreds of students have participated in the field trip and the number of studentcreated works on display at Art in the Park has continued to grow. Choosing one logo design winner and four runners-up has also become an increasingly difficult decision.

For this year’s winner, Alec Brady, having his design chosen as the festival’s official logo appearing on advertisements, merchandise and signage has been surreal.

Brady, a 2014 Dana Hills graduate, sees his design almost daily, whether it’s on a bus, a poster at Subway or printed in the newspaper. It’s a rewarding experience the Saddle-

1st: Alec Brady back College student never expected upon submitting his entry.

With a pool of talented photographers, graphic designers and artists at Dana Hills, Brady thought his submission was a longshot. Brady aimed to do something different and it worked. He focused his design on a realistic great gray juxtaposed against freestyled waves. Months after putting forward his design and then graduating, Brady got the news—he had won the fourth annual logo design contest.

“I was really surprised … and was really stoked to find out my design was chosen,” Brady said.

Brady, along with runners-up Stephanie Kuehle, Kate Summer, Joey Benrubi and Kai Fowler received recognition from festival organizers.

Field trip inspired art will be on display during the second weekend of Art in the Park.

DO YOUR PART: HELP KEEP THE FESTIVAL CLEAN AND GREEN Each year, visitors congregate at the Dana Point Festival of Whales to celebrate the California gray whales’ migration from Alaskan waters to the lagoons of Baja California. It’s a tradition stretching more than four decades that festival organizers hope to continue for decades and decades more.

To assure future generations have the opportunity to observe and learn about marine life along Southern California’s shore, the Dana Point Festival of Whales asks all participating sponsors, exhibitors and guests 44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

to be stewards of the oceans, both at the festival and when they return home.

Sponsors and exhibitors have been asked to keep the festival’s location at the water’s edge in mind when planning their events. That’s why you won’t find balloons, stickers, temporary tattoos, flyers, single-use water bottles or other items that might find their way to the receiving waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Organizers are also asking festival-goers to do their part to keep the festival, and ecosystem, green and clean. One simple way to reduce your impact is to pack a reusable water bottle.

Drinking fountains are conveniently located throughout the Dana Point Harbor and refillable bottles are available for purchase at various event locations. The South Coast Water District will also have their emergency water trailer on hand to help visitors quench their thirst.

3

saved after becoming tangled in a gill net, to the public for a free tour, lecture and signing of Anderson’s book—Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey. 4 WHALE WATCHING March 7, 8, 14, 15; Departure times vary Climb aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari vessel to get up close to dolphins, whales and other marine species. For more information: call, visit their website or read more about whale watching excursions on page 12.

Classic Cars and Vintage Boats ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT SOCIETY March 7, 8; 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Classic vessels from the boat society’s Southern California chapter, dedicated to the preservation of historic, antique and classic boats, will be displayed along the Harbor’s West Basin walkway. 11 PORSCHE 356 CLUB March 14; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Learn about Porsche’s first production automobile, the 356, and meet passionate Porsche owners from this Southern California club’s chapter as their pristine vehicles are displayed at Waterfall Park—Dana Point Harbor Drive and Island Way Drive. 14

Events & Attractions # = Event location. See map on page 8.

Arts and Culture ART IN THE PARK March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Students from Dana Hills High School will show their work side-by-side regional, professional artists specializing in a variety of mediums including painting, ceramics, photography, origami and more at Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. 12 DANA POINT FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION SHOW & SALE March 7, 8, 14, 15; 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Stroll the Harbor boardwalk to peruse or purchase works of area artists, from watercolors and acrylic paintings to penciled drawings and photographs. Show displayed alongside the boat docks in Mariners Village. 6 POLYNESIAN CONNECTION March 7; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Experience a day of Polynesian culture as the Hula Connection presents music, dancing and hands-on activities like lei making, poi-ball twirling, Tahitian dancing and coconut husking for visitors of all ages along the shore of Baby Beach. 15 HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR OF TOWN CENTER March 7, 8; 2 p.m. Join the Historical Society on this walk of Dana Point’s historic downtown to hear stories of the city’s origins, buildings, homes and landmarks circa 1924 to 1939. Meet your guide at 34091 Pacific Coast Highway on the corner of Blue Lantern and PCH. 8 4

Captain Dave’s Whale Watching and More

SO CAL WOODIES March 7, 8; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Check out the quintessential cars of California’s historic surf culture as the regional branch of the National Woodie Club presents wood-paneled, chrome-finished Fords, Chevrolets, Buicks and more along the Harbor walkway. 11

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com

CAPTAIN DAVE’S CARNIVAL March 14; Noon–2 p.m.

Come one, come all for an afternoon of games, crafts, bounce houses, prizes and more. Also, attendees of all ages can get their faces painted, learn pottery wheel throwing and paint a mural on sail cloth. 4

WHALE OF A CLASSIC CAR DISPLAY March 14, 15; 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Classic cars and hot rods, many of which have donned the covers of automotive magazines and taken top industry awards, will be displayed along the Harbor walkway. And, back by popular demand will be the Batmobile. 11

DOCUMENTARY/DRONE FILM SCREENINGS March 14; 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Stop by the Dolphin Deck to view jaw-dropping drone footage of a stampeding dolphin mega pod, migrating gray whales and more. And each hour, catch the award-winning documentary, Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. 4

Dana Wharf Whale Watching and More 34675 Golden Lantern, 800.979.3370, 800.590.9994, www.danawharf.com

KIDS ADVENTURE EXPO March 8; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Join in on this whale of an adventure as Dana Wharf hosts a day of education, entertainment and delight complete with a rock wall, hamster balls, fishing tips, face painting, DJ, popcorn, cotton candy and more. 9

DRONES OVER WHALES & DOLPHINS March 14; 2 p.m–4 p.m. Discover how Captain Dave Anderson and his crew capture aerial footage of marine mammals off the Southern California coast using drones.

View the equipment used and watch unseen footage at this free presentation at the OC Sailing & Events Center. 7 LILY: A GRAY WHALE TRIBUTE March 8; 8:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m. Captain Dave Anderson opens up his 62-foot research and rescue vessel Lily, named for a gray whale

KIDS FREE FISHING CLINIC AND TRIP March 8, 15; Noon–12:30 p.m., 12:45–5:15 p.m. Children learn to cast, catch and reel in fish from local experts at this 30-minute dockside fishing clinicfollowed by a free fishing trip, including equipment, for kids 12 and under. Adults are $46 plus license and equipment. 3

MARINE MAMMAL LECTURE SERIES March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–11 a.m. Hear from marine biologists and experts while enjoying a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s followed by a 2.5-hour whale watching trip. Tickets $55 for adults and $35 for seniors and children 3-12. March 7: Captain Todd Mansur, gray whales; March 8: Lei Lani Stelle, blue whales and dolphin; March 14: Alisa Schulman-Janiger, California Orcas/Gray Whale Census; March 15: Doug Thompson, gray whales. 13 SUNSET WHALE WATCH March 7, 8, 14, 15; 4 p.m.–6 p.m. Experience a Dana Point sunset at sea while sipping your favorite cocktail, wine or beer from the vessel’s onboard bar. Tickets are $29 for adults and $25 for seniors and kids. 3 WHALE WATCHING March 7, 8, 14, 15; Departure times vary Climb aboard a maritime excursion narrated by expert captains and certified naturalists who will detail the gray whales’ migration.

For more information: call, visit their website or read more about whale watching excursions on page 12.

WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m.–2 p.m. Learn how renowned wildlife artist Wyland creates his paintings and sculptures at this dockside video presentation and art lesson. Kids can enter their artwork to be judged by Wyland for a grand prize. Cost is $5 donation per child and includes a free 2.5hour whale watching trip after the lesson. 3

Diamond Dig DIAMOND DIG March 8; 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Argh! Kids, come dressed in your pirate best and dig for buried treasure in the Baby Beach sands. Prizes include jewelry, toys and more. This annual event, hosted by the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club, costs $10. All proceeds benefit local children’s charities. 15

Doheny State Beach MOBILE MARINE MAMMAL MUSEUM March 15; 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Gain an appreciation for the sea’s creatures at this display of marine mammal artifacts at the Doheny State Beach Visitor Center. Free, one-hour parking is available at the state beach for mobile museum visitors. 16 WHALE OF A BEACH CLEANUP March 14; 9 a.m.–noon Help keep a Southern California gem pristine by bringing your gloves and a bucket or recyclable bag to this annual cleanup of Doheny State Beach. Meet at lifeguard headquarters to learn how you can help maintain coastal resources year-round. 16 WHALE WALK March 7, 8, 14, 15; All Day Stroll along a beachside path of life-sized paintings of the ocean’s greatest mammals that can be seen right off Dana Point’s shores including the gray, blue, humpback and orca whale. 16 (Cont. on page 6)

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

Events & Attractions (Cont.)

Food POLYNESIAN CONNECTION LUAU March 7; 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m. Experience the sights, sounds and tastes of Polynesia at this traditional luau held at the OC Sailing & Events Center. Cost is $50 for adults and $25 for kids. Proceeds go to the Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Disorders. 7 WHALE OF A BBQ March 8; 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers will be served during Ocean Awareness Day festivities. Stand will be set up adjacent to Baby Beach. 15 WHALE OF A CLAM CHOWDER COOK-OFF March 14; 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Local eateries and clubs face off in this annual event benefitting the nonprofit Fish for Life, an organization that takes children with special needs on fishing excursions. Stop by to sample every entry, vote and show your support. Cost is $10 to taste every entry. There will also be a spirits garden for guests 21 and over. 15 WHALE OF A CONCERT BBQ March 15; Noon–5 p.m. Fill up on barbecued favorites at the OC Sailing & Events Center while local bands perform atop a floating stage at Baby Beach. Barbecue includes a spirits garden for attendees over 21. Valid driver’s license must be presented. 15 WHALE OF A PANCAKE BREAKFAST March 8; 8 a.m.–11 a.m. Start your day with hot off the griddle pancakes served by volunteers from the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Proceeds benefit active military members, veterans and their families. 7

Grunion Run SEVENTH ANNUAL GRUNION RUN March 15; Registration 6:45 a.m.; 10K and 5K 7:45 a.m.; Kids’ 1K 9 a.m.; Awards 9:15 a.m. Walk or run this fast, flat course that snakes through Doheny State Beach in the 7th annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run. Registration fees are: $45 for the 10K; $40 for the 5K; and $20 for kids 1K. Visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com for more information. 16

Merchandise FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE March 7, 8, 14, 15; All Day Take home a 6

piece of the 44th annual Dana Point Festival of Whales by purchasing a commemorative T-shirt or sweatshirt. Merchandise stands will be open throughout the harbor.

tion experts and nightly film viewings. Visit www.phinfest.com for more information and follow PhinFest on Instagram and Twitter @PhinFest. 5

Movie in the Park

FACTS & ‘FIN’TASEA SAILING ADVENTURE March 8; Talk, 12:15 p.m.; Sail 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Learn how we are impacting friends at sea and how individuals can participate in preservation efforts from a real mermaid during this open-sea sail aboard the tallship, Spirit of Dana Point. Cost is $23 for children 4–12 and $40 for adults. 5

THE LITTLE MERMAID March 7; 6:30 p.m. The city of Dana Point hosts an outdoor screening of the Disney classic The Little Mermaid at Lantern Bay Park. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and a picnic dinner for this night under the stars. Free popcorn. Beverages and snacks will be available. 17

Music HARBOR MUSIC SERIES March 7, 8, 14, 15; Noon–3 p.m. The Dana Point Harbor Merchants Association presents live entertainment throughout the Harbor. Musical performances will be held in the Dana Wharf Courtyard, Art in the Park and Mariners Village. 10 WHALE OF A CONCERT March 15; Noon–1 p.m.; 1:30 p.m.–3 p.m.; 3:30 p.m.–5 p.m. Bring your beach chairs and swing on by Baby Beach for an afternoon of live music as The PettyBreakers, Mobility and The Tijuana Dogs take to the Festival of Whales floating stage. 15

Ocean Awareness Day OCEAN AWARENESS DAY March 8; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Festivalgoers can peruse interactive displays and participate in demonstrations showcasing ocean issues and environmental programs throughout the day at Baby Beach. 15

Ocean Institute Sailing Adventures and More 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

OCEAN INSTITUTE March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit the Ocean Institute and learn about the world’s hydrosphere through sailing trips, hands-on activities, discussions, animal feedings, dissections and more. Admission is $6.50 for adults, $4.50 for children and free for kids 2 and under. 5 BRIG PILGRIM AND BARN ACTIVITIES March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Experience life aboard a square-rig brig as you try your hand at climbing a practice yard and pass the time with knots and rope work. On Saturdays, watch crew member demonstrations aboard the brig Pilgrim at 11 a.m. 5 PHINFEST DOLPHIN & WHALE FILM FESTIVAL March 13, 14, 15; Times Vary Use your love for dolphins, whales and other marine life to embrace conservation efforts at the first-ever #PhinFest, featuring sounds of the ocean, discussions with renowned protec-

LITERASEA SAILING ADVENTURE March 14; Talk, 12:15 p.m.; Sail 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Watch literature and history come to life and re-enact life on the Essex—the 1820s whaling ship that inspired Herman Melville’s Moby Dick—while sailing aboard the tallship Spirit of Dana Point. Cost is $23 for children 4–12 and $40 for adults. 5 MADDIE JAMES SEASIDE LEARNING CENTER March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Discover citizen science and learn the effects humans have on local watersheds by participating in the Ocean Institute’s Plate Watch program, which counts invasive harbor species. Each day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., experience life as a sailor aboard a whaling vessel. 5 MERMAID RECYCLING EXHIBIT March 14, 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Explore the Ocean Institute’s vast marine exhibits and partake in story times with a mermaid where you’ll learn about the value of recycling. Take pictures with your new sea friend and learn about human impacts on whales. 5 TWO YEARS BEFORE THE MAST: A TALLSHIP SAILING ADVENTURE March 15; Talk, 12:15 p.m.; Sail 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. Relive the adventure and experience life as a 1830s sailor while learning about Dana Point’s history on this hands-on sail aboard the tallship Spirit of Dana Point. Cost is $23 for children 4–12 and $40 for adults. 5 WHALE OF A TALE CRAFTS March 7, 8, 14, 15 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Stop by the Ocean Institute to learn about the value of recycling and craft up-cycled whale projects made from egg cartons, clothespins, paper plates and paper bags. $2 suggested donation for supplies. Stories will be told at the top of every hour. 5 WHALE’S TALE TALLSHIP SAILING ADVENTURE March 7; Talk, 12:15 p.m.; Sail, 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale” travel through time to discover how man’s perceptions of the gray whale have changed.

Then, set out to sea aboard a historic tallship to gain insights into humans’ evolving relationship with the ocean. Cost is $23 for children 4–12 and $40 for adults. 5

Parade 44TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WHALES PARADE March 7; 10 a.m.–noon. Nab a front-row seat along Pacific Coast Highway to cheer on thousands of local participants and organizations as they celebrate the gray whales’ “Magical Migration” with floats, giant balloons, horses, vintage cars, bands and more. Route travels PCH south from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. Free shuttle available from Harbor parking lots to parade viewing area. 1

Rubber Ducky Derby WHALE OF A RUBBER DUCKY DERBY March 8; 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Head down to Baby Beach and try your luck in this twist on a classic rubber ducky race. Cost is $6 per duck or $10 for two. Funds go toward children’s programming at the Dana Point Library. Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place. 15

Sand Sculpting Fun WHALE OF A SAND SCULPTING COMPETITION March 8; Sculpting begins, 8 a.m.; Judging, 2:30 p.m. Bring your buckets, sculpting tools and imagination to Baby Beach to create castles, ocean creatures, pirates, woodies and more in this annual contest hosted by OC Parks. Twenty plots available.

No entry fee. 15

Street Fair FESTIVAL OF WHALES STREET FAIR March 7; 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Visit La Plaza Park after the parade for a day of fun, filled with live entertainment, food trucks, carnival games, more than 70 booths, a pet costume contest, farmers market and more.

Free shuttles run to and from the harbor starting at noon. 2

Westwind Sailing and Paddling 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.3035, www.westwindsailing.com

SAILING RIDES March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Take to harbor waterways and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14 on these half-hour educational sessions. Cost $15 per boat with a three-person maximum. All proceeds donated to the Dana Point Aquatic Foundation’s at-risk youth and adaptive-boating programs. 7 STAND-UP PADDLING CLINICS March 7, 8, 14, 15; 10 a.m.–3 p.m. See what the fastest-growing water sport is all about as you paddle your way around Baby Beach. Sessions are 45 minutes. Cost is $10 per person. Lessons are available to participants ages 12 and up. Lifejackets are provided. 7

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

Navigating the Festival PARKING Parking at the Dana Point Harbor is free but is limited to four hours—a restriction that is strictly enforced by local sheriff’s deputies.

All-day, paid parking is available at Doheny State Beach for $8 or $2 per hour for visitors not staying throughout the day.

SHUTTLE A free shuttle will run throughout the Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach parking lots each day of the festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The shuttle will service multiple event stops throughout the harbor to help festivalgoers get from one area of the festival to another.

• On the festival’s opening day, Saturday, March 7, shuttle services will be available at 9 a.m. (one hour before the parade) from the harbor to the Festival of Whales parade viewing area. The shuttle then continues service from noon to 4 p.m. to and from the harbor and La Plaza Park, providing access to the annual Street Fair.

• On the festival’s final day, Sunday, March 15, shuttle services will be extended to 6 p.m. after the Whale of a Concerts conclusion.

WATER TAXI Festivalgoers can enjoy daily service between docks at each of the harbor’s ends with the Festival of Whales water taxi. Taxi runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Roundtrip tickets between Dana Wharf and the Ocean Institute cost $5.

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A MASS-TRANSIT MIGRATION Looking for budget- and environmentallyfriendly ways to celebrate the yearly migration of the California gray whale?

Well, you’re in luck.

The Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink have made travels to the 44th annual Dana Point Festival of Whales simple and affordable with $10 weekend passes and trouble-free transfers between trains and buses.

To get to the festival, riders can travel to the San Juan Capistrano train station on Metrolink’s OC Line and transfer to an OCTA Route 91 bus headed south to Dana Point. Travelers seeking adventure can bring along their bicycles and ride the San Juan Creek bike trail for three miles to Doheny State Beach.

Weekend passes, providing system wide travel all day Saturday and Sunday, are available at Metrolink ticket machines that have weekend service. Log on to www.octa.net/whales for full festival-transit schedules.

Aside from avoiding traffic and reducing their carbon footprint, mass-transit riders will also save money while exploring the

Festival of Whales by showing their Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lanes transponder.

DRINKS

Buy one coffee beverage at Coffee Importers, located in the Dana Point Harbor’s Mariners Village, and receive a second one free.

Offer expires March 31.

EATS

Visit Wind & Sea Restaurant—situated in the harbor at the water’s edge—and receive a free house appetizer of the chef’s choosing with the purchase of an entrée.

ELECTRIC BOAT RENTAL

Explore the harbor from your own vessel. Receive a 50-percent discount on 21-foot electric boat rentals from Vintage Marina Partners, located at the Embarcadero Marina. Rentals are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis. Minimum onehour rental fee required. Reserve a rental by calling 949.496.6177.

EXCURSIONS

Enjoy 50-percent off whale watching trips with Dana Wharf Whale Watching and the Ocean Institute during both festival weekends. Reservations are required. Check trip times for Dana Wharf and make reservations at 949.496.5794 or online at www. danawharf.com. To reserve your spot on an Ocean Institute outing, visit www.ocean-institute.org or call 949.496.2274.

STAY

Make a weekend of the festival by staying a night or two in the heart of the harbor at the Dana Point Marina Inn for a special, discount rate of $79. Reservations required. Mention the OCTA/ Metrolink rate when securing a room. Call 800.255.6843 or email info@danapointmarinainn.com for more.

WATER TAXI

Travel the harbor’s waterway from Dana Wharf to the Ocean Institute aboard a Festival of Whales water taxi for just $3 roundtrip. Taxi service runs daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

EVENT SCHEDULE WEEKEND ONE // MARCH 7–8 # = Event location.

See map on page 8.

Saturday, March 7 6 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Harbor walkway, near Mariners Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive

5 Story Time 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Ocean Institute 10 Harbor Music Series Noon–3 p.m.

Dana Wharf, Mariners Village, Art in the Park 5 Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 12:15 p.m.–3:30 p.m.

Ocean Institute 8 Historical Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m.

Blue Lantern Street/ Pacific Coast Highway 7 Polynesian Luau 5:30 p.m.–9 p.m.

OC Sailing & Event Center

1 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m.–Noon.

Pacific Coast Highway 2 Street Fair 10 a.m.– 3 p.m. La Plaza Park 11 So Cal Woodies, Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Harbor walkway 15 Polynesian Connection 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Baby Beach Park 7 Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.– 4 p.m. Sailing, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

SUP. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.– 11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 3 Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m.

OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 5 Citizen Science Program 10 a.m.–Noon.

Ocean Institute 5 Whale of a Tale Crafts 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Brig Pilgrim and Barn Activities 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute

17 Movie in the Park: The Little Mermaid 6:30 p.m.

Lantern Bay Park Sunday, March 8 7 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast 8 a.m.–11 a.m.

OC Sailing & Event Center

WEEKEND TWO // MARCH 13–15 3 Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m.

OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.– 11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 5 Citizen Science Program 10a.m.–Noon.

Ocean Institute 5 Whale of a Tale Crafts 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Story Time 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Brig Pilgrim and Barn Activities 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 15 Ocean Awareness Day 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Baby Beach

15 Sand Sculpting Competition 8 a.m.– 2:30 p.m. Baby Beach 4 Lily: A Gray Whale Tribute 8:30 a.m.–9:30 a.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari 6 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Harbor walkway, Mariners Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 7 Sailing & Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 11 So Cal Woodies and Antique & Classic Boat Society 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Harbor walkway 9 Kids Adventure Expo 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Dick Simon Yachts parking lot

# = Event location.

See map on page 8.

Friday, March 13 5 PhinFest Dolphin & Whale Film Festival 3 p.m.–10 p.m.

Ocean Institute Saturday, March 14 16 Whale of a Beach Cleanup 9 a.m.–Noon.

Doheny State Beach 6 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Harbor walkway, near Mariners Village 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 15 Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off 10 a.m.– 2 p.m. Baby Beach Park 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Harpoon Henry’s 11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Harbor walkway

15 Diamond Dig 11:30 a.m.– 1 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Whale of a BBQ 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Baby Beach Park 10 Harbor Music Series Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariner’s Village, Art in the Park 3 Free Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip Noon–5:45 p.m.

Dana Wharf Docks 5 Fin’tasea Sailing Adventure 12:15 p.m.– 3:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 8 Historical Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m.

Blue Lantern Street/ Pacific Coast Highway 3 Drone and GoPro Demo 2 p.m.–4:30 p.m.

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

14 Porsche 356 Club Southern California 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Waterfall Park on Dana Point Harbor Drive 3 Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m.

OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock

4 Viewing: Documentary, Drone Footage 11 a.m.– 3 p.m. Dolphin Deck near Baby Beach 10 Harbor Music Series Noon–3 p.m.

Dana Wharf, Mariners Village, Art in the Park 3 Free Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip Noon–5:45 p.m.

Dana Wharf Docks 4 Captain Dave’s Carnival Noon–2 p.m. Dolphin Deck near Baby Beach 5 LiteraSea Sailing Adventure 12:15 p.m.– 3:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 7 Drones Footage Discovery 2 p.m.–4 p.m.

OC Sailing & Event Center 3 Drone and GoPro Demo 2 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 5 PhinFest Dolphin & Whale Film Festival 4 p.m.– 10 p.m. Ocean Institute Sunday, March 15 16 Festival of Whales Grunion Run 6:45 a.m.–9:30 a.m.

Doheny State Beach 6 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Harbor walkway, Mariners Village

7 Sailing & Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center

5 Brig Pilgrim and Barn Activities 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Story Time 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Ocean Institute

11 Whale of a Classic Car Display 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Harbor walkway 7 Sailing & Paddling Lessons 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 5 Citizen Science Program 10 a.m.–Noon.

Ocean Institute 5 Whale of a Tale Crafts 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Brig Pilgrim and Barn Activities 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Brig Pilgrim Tours 10:45 a.m.–2:45 p.m.

Ocean Institute 5 Story Time 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Ocean Institute 16 Mobile Marine Mammal Museum 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Doheny State Beach Visitor Center 15 Whale of a Concert and BBQ Noon–5 p.m.

Baby Beach 10 Harbor Music Series Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village, Art in the Park 3 Free Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip Noon–5:45 p.m.

Dana Wharf Docks

5 Citizen Science Program 10a.m.–Noon.

Ocean Institute 5 Whale of a Tale Crafts 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Ocean Institute

3 Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock

5 Two Years Before the Mast: A Tallship Sailing Adventure 12:15 p.m.– 3:30 p.m. Ocean Institute 12 Art in the Park 10 a.m.– 5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 13 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Harpoon Henry’s

3 Drone and GoPro Demo 2 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 5 Dolphin & Whale Film Festival 4 p.m.–10 p.m.

Ocean Institute

9

BEING COURTEOUS, CONSCIENTIOUS HOSTS

Simple guidelines to keeping visiting gray whales safe and happy

Photo: Loriannah Hespe/loriannahphotos@gmail.com

By Ocean Institute Staff

Pacific gray whales have returned to their traditional migratory route in the near-shore waters of Southern California and cetacean lovers are enjoying some of the best whale watching in more than 30 years.

A seemingly endless caravan of gray whales has been moving toward lagoons off the central Baja California, Mexico coast for the last several months and is just now starting to reverse course and return to cooler, Alaskan waters—home to their summer feeding grounds. Frequent sightings of these gray whales, which often occur within a half

mile of shore, should continue through April.

These grays are very much like celebrities within the boating community. We gossip about their whereabouts and share stories and videos of sightings. Indeed, we are not unlike paparazzi, following them relentlessly with our cameras hoisted. But grays often prefer privacy to nurse their young or interact with one another. So, how can a boater be a good host to our welcome visitors instead of an unwelcome intruder? Here are some guidelines to provide an enriching encounter between you and a gray whale: We can all start with a basic understanding

of grays. A boater must know that grays do not like loud engine noise. Unlike humpbacks, grays have soft voices that are easily drowned out by engines and they must be able to hear one another in order to stay close together in our murky waters. Remember, they usually cannot see each other once they are 20 feet apart, so they rely solely on their voices.

Upon sighting a gray whale, boaters should study its behavior from a quartermile away before approaching. Which way is it going? How fast is it swimming? Once you’ve determined this, a boater should quietly fall in behind the whale in the “six

o’clock” position. If you are following a whale and its behavior changes—it speeds up, zig-zags or stays down longer—break off. You’ve impacted our guest.

As polite hosts, boaters should go no faster than an idle when within a quarter- mile of a gray and never whale watch from a personal water craft for safety purposes. Grays can hear your boat approaching, they can tell how fast you’re going, and they can tell if your boat is pointed at them. If you zoom right up to a gray and then cut the engine, this could be very stressful for them and you may miss an amazing opportunity to view these spectacular creatures. By tiptoeing up to a gray, your politeness will be rewarded.

Finally, boaters should adhere to the “one whale, one boat” rule of thumb. There are so many of these beautiful mammals passing by this year, there’s no reason to encroach on another boater that’s enjoying a whale.

Be adventurous. Head for the horizon, proudly shout, “Thar she blows,” on your own. And, it’s best to stay clear of the large commercial boats as these are professional wildlife guides who are trying to provide an enriching experience for their guests.

All of us want the same thing: To host our visitors with respect, and to share a special moment on the water with these intriguing mammals. If we heed a few simple guidelines, we will host them for many years to come.

The Ocean Institute proudly provides fun, engaging boat excursions along our coast.

We strive to be an educational resource for the community and welcome any questions regarding additional best practices for wildlife viewing. Public whale watching cruises run on weekends throughout the year. Please contact us at 949.496.2274 or visit www.ocean-institute.org for additional information.

Introducing PhinFest Dolphin & Whale Film Festival PhinFest welcomes Naomi Rose from the Animal Welfare Institute in Washington D.C. In years past, Festival of Whales activities have happened only in daylight hours, but this year a whole new opportunity to learn about the world’s largest mammals will light up at sundown.

PhinFest, an organization created to educate the public about marine life protection via multi-media events, will present the inaugural PhinFest Dolphin & Whale Film Festival, March 13 through 15.

Hosted by the Ocean Institute, PhinFest will include the sights and sounds of cetaceans via digital projections and interactive technologies, screenings of important films about extinction and conservation and faceto-face dialogue with documentarians and scientists about their films and the status of marine mammals worldwide.

Naomi Rose, PhD, marine mammal scientist for the Animal Welfare Institute in Washington, D.C. will be among the esteemed guest speakers at the inaugural PhinFest.

While earning her doctorate degree in marine biology from UC Santa Cruz, Rose led a five-year research project in British Columbia studying orcas. She then went on 10

to spend 20 years at The Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International and has written and lectured extensively on issues related to animal protection.

As a member of the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission’s Federal Advisory Committee on Acoustic Impacts on Marine Mammals, she testified before Congress in 2001 on worldwide efforts to regulate and mitigate noise impacts on the marine environment caused by low-frequency active sonar.

At the AWI, Rose coordinates programs aimed at providing protection and advocacy for marine mammals both in the wild and on public display. Her work deals with policy on state, national and international levels and the laws—such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act—created to protect these animals from issues including whaling, marine noise, harassment in the wild and captivity.

“Our job is to make sure that the laws are strong,” Rose said. “If they’re not strong, we work to make them stronger, and if they’re not implemented or enforced properly, we pressure the government to make sure they are.”

On Friday, March 13, Rose will be among

the experts aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer for an afternoon whale watching cruise, followed by a meet and greet reception at 7 p.m. At 8 p.m., PhinFest will be presenting Rose with an award of excellence for her work in cetacean protection

“I do what I do because I have always loved the animals … and want to work toward making things better for them.”

Dr. Naomi Rose laws. Alisa Schulman-Janiger, director of the American Cetacean Society and the LA Gray Whale Census and Behavior Project will be honored as well. Rose will also speak about her recent work and the current status of

cetaceans around the world, including the latest developments in worldwide protection laws.

On Saturday, March 14 both will join other panelists in a discussion following the Southern California debut of the movie, Fragile Waters.

VIP tickets for the event, which include the cruise and all three days of films, activities, meet and greet reception and panel discussion, are $150. Two-day passes are $75 (and comes with a special gift) and a singleday pass is $30. Those wishing to view only a specific film may do so for $25. Tickets are on sale at www.phinfest.eventbrite.com.

Net ticket sales will benefit participating organizations: The Ocean Institute, Animal Welfare Institute, American Cetacean Society, Orca Network and Orca Research Trust.

PhinFest is also conducting a contest which invites both amateur and professional filmmakers to submit a video of five minutes or less about their love of dolphins or whales.

For more information, including a schedule and guest speakers, visit www.phinfest. com.

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

Whale Watching Excursions Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Dana Wharf Whale Watching

Get up close with dolphins and whales and feel what it’s like to swim with these majestic marine mammals aboard one of Capt.

Dave’s high-tech catamarans, complete with eye-spy dolphin nets and state-ofthe-art research equipment. Hop onboard Capt. Dave’s catamaran sailboat Manute’a and become one with a stampeding pod of dolphins or a passing whale when you enter the underwater, eye-to-eye viewing pod. Also, hear cetaceans below the surface with Capt. Dave’s hydrophone and explore marine artifacts in the whale and dolphin micro-museum. Tickets for these 2.5-hour trips are $59 per adult and $39 for children ages 2 to 12. Children under 1 are free, but must be included in the reservation. Mention this listing for a $10 discount.

Departure times vary. Charters for up to six people are also available. For the excursion schedule, more information or to book a reservation, call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com.

Dana Wharf Whale Watching was started in 1968 by Don Hansen with boats launching at the San Clemente Pier. In 1971, the operation moved to Dana Point Harbor and the originator of whale watching in Orange County has been a vital aspect of the local scene since. Today, Dana Wharf’s impressive fleet of vessels, including the 95-foot Dana Pride and OCean Adventures catamaran, caters to water adventurers of all kinds.

Climb aboard a Dana Wharf whale watching trip for an open-sea excursion with a staff of expert captains and certified naturalists who provide an intimate and educational experience. These 2.5-hour trips depart every hour, on the hour. Tickets are $45 for adults, seniors and military are $35 and children ages 3-12 are $25. Kids 2 and under are free. Also, catch a whale of a deal at 8 a.m.—a trip for just $15—or, for $29, take a sunset whale cruise at 4 p.m. To make reservations, visit www.danawharf.com or call 888.224.0603.

Ocean Institute Experience the exciting phenomenon of one of the greatest mammal migrations on earth aboard an Ocean Institute excursion. Each year, gray whales embark on one of the longest migrations of any mammal—swimming more than 10,000 miles roundtrip between their feeding grounds in the Arctic and the lagoons of Mexico. Join the Ocean Institute’s skilled and knowledgeable crew on a 2.5-hour cruise and glimpse into the mysterious world of these amazing creatures. During the cruise, Ocean Institute biologists will provide a peek into the history of whaling along California’s coast, the human impact on Pacific gray whale populations and the history of these majestic mammals. These 2.5-hour trips are offered at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on both festival weekends. Cost is $35 for adults and $22 for children ages 4-12. Weekend admission to the institute is included with all purchases. For more information and reservations, call 949.496.2274 or log on to www.ocean-institute.org.

Photo: Loriannah Hespe/loriannahphotos@gmail.com

ART AND LEARNING GO HAND IN HAND The Dana Point Festival of Whales has honored the gray whales’ 10,000-mile roundtrip migration between Alaskan and Mexican waters for more than 40 years, with two weekends of fun and educational events for the entire family.

Over the years many traditions have been formed, such as the parade down Pacific Coast Highway, Grunion Run, Art in the Park and, of course, whale watching. These, along with the festival’s main focus—educating the public about ocean mammals—combine to make learning fun for attendees of all ages.

Festival organizers add new attractions every year to engage visitors in new and exciting ways.

This migration season is no exception, as additions to the festival’s line-up aim to shed light on humans’ impact on the environment and the voyaging whale visitors by offering new artistic opportunities that combine creativity with learning. By adding a kinesthetic component—doing hands-on arts and crafts while learning through lecture, discussion or demonstration—to the festival’s lineup of activities, organizers hope to better engage attendees of all ages.

Throughout the festival, guests can stop by Art in the Park at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., to make your own origami sea creatures to take home while learning about the ocean’s 12

cetacean inhabitants from Ocean Institute educators.

A giant origami whale project, led by 13-year-old paper folding artist, Brayden Jenson, will give attendees the opportunity to make origami that will become part of the finished paper sculpture. Jenson is an accomplished paper folding artist who has shown his work publicly and taught classes in the art of origami. This will be his largest sculpture to date.

Festivalgoers have many other chances to learn about marine life while getting the artistic juices flowing. At Ocean Awareness Day on March 8 and Captain Dave’s Carnival on March 14, join in the creation of marinethemed murals alongside a professional artist. The Ocean Institute is offering creative learning activities as well, Brayden Jenson, 13, shows off one of his origami creations. Jenson will repurposing recyclables by creating crafts out of egg complete a large origami whale cartons, clothespins, paper plates and bags. For a $5 at Art in the Park. Photo: Courtesy donation to the Wyland Foundation, Dana Wharf Whale Watching is providing art lessons for children ages 3 to 12, taught by renowned environmental artist Wyland, via video feed, every day of the festival. Lessons are followed by a free twohour whale watching trip for kids accompanied by a paid adult.

For times and locations of these events and more, see the schedule of events on page 9.

44th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales | March 7-8 & 14-15, 2015 | festivalofwhales.com

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DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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

Everyone Wins Lecture series a win-win for bibliophiles, singles, aspiring authors, more

O

n the third Sunday of each month, the Friends of the San Juan Capistrano Library sponsor a Local Author Lecture Series from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the bookstore. The February event featured romance and travel writers.

Cheryl Gardarian and I were the guest authors. Cheryl writes fiction, and I write non-fiction. Nearly 30 people attended and it seems that everybody benefitted in one way or the other. Cheryl and I benefitted simply by being the invited authors. That was an honor in itself.

Both of us were able to share our stories and writing experiences in a panel that was moderated by Ann Ronan, a local travel agent and chairwoman of the San Juan Capistrano Chamber of Commerce. At the end of the session, complimentary snacks and refreshments were served while Cheryl and I got to display ON LIFE AND and autograph our books.

LOVE AFTER 50 The bookstore is run

By Tom Blake entirely by volunteers, led by Friends of the Library president Mary DeMers, who put a great deal of effort into coordinating the event. The book shelves are moved aside and temporary chairs are set up for the guests. After the event, the chairs are removed and the book shelves put back in place. The allvolunteer staff was assisted by members of the National Charity League.

Book-lovers benefitted by meeting the

Tom Blake was featured at the Feb. 22 Friends of the San Juan Capistrano Library Local Author Lecture Series.

Shown here (L to R) are author Cheryl Gardarian, Blake, panel moderator Ann Rohan and Mary DeMers, president, Friends of the Library. Photo: Monique Dodge

authors in person, asking questions and purchasing autographed books.

The library earns a commission on the sale of the books, which helps cover operating costs. Not to mention the exposure that the library received by having people new to the bookstore enjoy its charm.

Singles benefitted by making new friends and getting dating, relationship and travel advice. One woman, recently widowed, met Christine Baumgartner, a relationship counselor/event planner who attended, and scheduled some future consulting appointments with Christine.

Aspiring authors learned the ins and outs of publishing books. Cheryl uses publishers and I self-publish. Both authors also publish electronic books, which are very popular these days.

I often tell older singles that the most important thing they can do is get off the couch and out of the house and meet new friends. Attending events like this is a great way to achieve that; I heard two women say they were meeting for coffee the next morning.

Getting out and meeting the public

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 February 27-March 5, 2015

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

Page 9

is beneficial to authors as well. I was pleased and surprised when moderator/ travel agent Ann asked if I would like to host a four-day cruise out of Los Angeles in November on the Star Princess cruise ship. When I said yes, Ann replied, “We will name it the ‘Tom Blake’s Loving Life

after 55 Cruise.’” That would not have happened to me had I not appeared.

Each of our local tri-city libraries are greatly assisted by volunteers. Funding is tight for libraries. We as residents are blessed to have these volunteers helping our libraries, which we need to support.

What a pleasant afternoon this was.

There is nothing greater than to be in a warm and cozy environment surrounded by books just waiting to stimulate our minds.

For information on the Sunday, March 15, Local Author Lecture Series at The Bookstore at the San Juan Capistrano library, call 949.493.2688 or visit the website at www.sjcfol.org.

For information on the Nov. 12 cruise, contact Ann at 949.702.3977 or by email at ann@sjctravel.com. Cruise details are also on the website: www.mybookinggenie. com/tom-blakes-travel-after-55-cruise.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and former business owner who has authored three books on middle-aged dating. For dating information: www.FindingLoveAfter50.com.

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

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Back to Back Champs Capistrano Coyotes ice hockey team raises second banner following win over Villa Park COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

Dana Hills’ Madison Baba scored seven goals for the Dolphins in their 13-12 loss to Schurr in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs. Photo: Steve Breazeale

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 throughout the CIF-SS playoffs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Late Goal Pushes Edison past Dolphins Soccer in CIF With only four minutes left in regulation, Edison girls soccer senior Bailey Webster corralled a long pass from Amy Feinstein and scored the game-winning goal against Dana Hills in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championship on Feb. 19.

Webster’s goal came in the 76th minute, just four minutes away from extra time.

The loss ended the Dolphins’ run through the postseason. Dana Hills (1010-2) earned a berth in the playoffs by finishing third in the South Coast League.

Edison, the No. 2 team out of the

Sunset League, lost to Laguna Hills in overtime of their second round matchup five days later.

Schurr Holds on for Playoff Win over Dolphins Water Polo A one-goal first half lead would end up being the deciding factor between the Dana Hills and Schurr girls water polo teams in their CIF-SS Division 2 firstround matchup on Feb. 19. Schurr got out to an 8-7 lead at the half and held on over the final two quarters to seal a 13-12 victory over the Dolphins.

Dana Hills outscored Schurr 4-2 in the fourth quarter, but it was not enough.

Madison Baba led the way for Dana Hills, notching seven goals and one steal in the loss. Baba also converted on a penalty attempt.

Sydney Baba contributed six assists, one steal and two goals and Dolphins’ goalie Blaire Borisoff recorded 11 saves.

Dana Hills barnstormed their way into the playoffs behind a strong finish in South Coast League play. The Dolphins won three of their last four league matches, including a 13-10 win over rival San Clemente on the final day of the regular season, to place third in league. DP

T

he Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League Division 2 Championship came down to the final game of the regular season between the Capistrano Coyotes and Villa Park on Feb. 25.

The Coyotes, who defeated Villa Park earlier in the year, were able to repeat the effort at Westminster Ice in a convincing 8-3 victory.

Dana Hills High School’s Mike Boutoussov scored twice while Niko Grollman, Austen Caronia, Dylan Zanki, Austin Erickson, Gregg Lee and Jack Lippis all notched one goal apiece.

The win secured an outright league title for the Coyotes, who have now won the league title in back to back years.

Villa Park and the Coyotes finished the year with identical 13-2 records, but the Coyotes won the outright title based on the head to head matchup. Capistrano Coyotes defeated Villa Park 8-1 in the second game of the season on Sept. 20.

The Coyotes came into the final game riding a two-game losing skid, which was out of the norm for the defending champions. The Coyotes went undefeated in 12 games dating back to Sept. 6 before falling to San Diego Union and Corona-Norco on Jan. 31 and Feb. 6, respectively. But the team was able to bounce back with a winning effort in the final game of the regular season.

The Coyotes, who draw players from around the Capistrano Unified School District, will be the No. 1 seed heading into the Division 2 playoffs and earned a first-

Max Kamper and the Capistrano Coyotes claimed the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League Division 2 championship on Feb. 25. Photo: Leslie Bird

round bye. They will play the winner of La Jolla-Los Alamitos in the second round at Westminster Ice on March 2 at 6 p.m. DP

Scoreboard Baseball

The Dana Hills High School baseball team is hosting a golf tournament and casino night fundraiser on Friday, March 13.

The event, dubbed Swing for the Hills, will have a golf tournament at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club followed by a casino gaming night.

Cost for the golf tournament is $225 per player or $800 for a foursome. Lunch is provided and there will be golf-themed prizes along the way, such as a hole-inone contest giveaway and helicopter ball drop.

Cost for the casino night only is $50 and includes dinner, live music and silent and live auctions.

Those interested can sign up online at www.dhhsbaseball.com. For more information, contact Gary Newkirk at garynewkirk@mac.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

DRAPERY

JACKIE LEE ASID-CID 949-493-6694

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

State Farm/Ted Bowersox

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

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

Write-up of 50 words with logo.

Four weeks in print and online.

Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

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

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

Dana Point Times February 27-March 5, 2015

PET GROOMING

Dawgy Style Groom Shop

34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, 949.496.3315, www.dawgystylegroomshop.net

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

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

Page 12

UPHOLSTERY

Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 34212 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit C, 949.240.9569 www.jeddys.com

Locals Only Business Listings

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

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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. $150.

949.533.9761

FOR SALE VINTAGE SURFBOARD 1985 STEWART/T&C SURFBOARD’ -$250.

949.933.0122

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 MARKETING & ADVERTISING INTERN Picket Fence Media (San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch) is seeking a polished and enthusiastic advertising intern to start immediately. Enrolled college marketing and communications student required. Must be available Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday afternoons, one to two days a week. Great phone manner and attention to detail a must. Knowledge of sales and eye-for-design a plus. This is a non-paid internship and a great opportunity to obtain some hands-on work experience and college credit (if available through your school). Send resume listing school and work experience to Susie Lantz at slantz@sanclementetimes.com.

No phone inquiries without resume.

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!

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Dana Point Times February 27-March 5, 2015

Page 13

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SSS: Stellar Shorecliffs Surfing

RESULTS Scholastic Surf Series, Orange County Middle School Divisions 1 and 2, Event No. 3, Feb. 21, Oceanside, Pier

Shorecliffs Middle School surf team takes big win Feb. 21 in Oceanside

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

W

ith cool temperatures and an overcast sky lingering for most of the day, Orange County middle school surfers met on Feb. 21 at the Oceanside Pier for event No. 3 of the Scholastic Surf Series. Waves were in the 2- to 3-foot range. Although a south wind came up in the morning, the waves were never blown out and remained contestable throughout the event.

Originally scheduled as event No. 4, the cancellation of the January San Clemente Pier event made this stop the third of the

Hagan Johnson of Shorecliffs Middle School was the Boys Shortboard division winner at the Feb. 21 SSS contest in Oceanside. The Shorecliffs team also came out on top. Photo: Sheri Crummer

SSS season.

Shorecliffs Middle School was the big winner of the day, topping runner-up Thurston Middle School, 265 to 201 in team competition.

“The talent pool is very deep among OC middle school teams and they’re amazing to watch,” said Carolyn Krammer, competition director. “Consistent surfing with aggressive maneuvers showed that these kids have really grasped the criteria

GROM OF THE WEEK

ETHAN MUDGE

W

e caught up with Ethan Mudge, 13, of San Clemente, at Western Surfing Association Event No. 7, Feb. 14-15 at the Huntington Beach Pier to talk about a surfing action photo of him on the WSA equipment trailer wrap.

The image shows him ripping, aloft and fins free. The choice, WSA officials said, was a good one, not only because it shows great surfing but because Ethan is a longtime competitor who has been surfing the WSA Championship Tour since his dad was pushing him into waves as a Micro Grom at the age of 5.

“I first saw it on Instagram and was blown away. I didn’t think it was really me at first. It was so surprised,” Ethan said. “I’m feeling really good about the WSA season this year because I’ve won a couple. But this made it even better.”

At that event, Ethan earned a thirdplace trophy in Boys U16. On the second day of the contest Ethan battled his way into the final but a long fog delay forced a postponement of the finals rounds.

In WSA, he is currently ranked No. 6 in Boys U14 and No. 7 in Boys U16, in a field of 95 for both divisions. Ethan also competes as part of his school team—shortboard and longboard—in the Scholastic Surf Series and in National Scholastic Surfing Association Open Juniors where he is No. 15 in a field of 45. In Surfing

Dana Point Times February 27–March 5, 2015

Ethan Mudge. Photo: Andrea Swayne

America Prime competition, he is No. 25 of 44. His next steps on his quest for a pro surfing career, he said, will be pro junior competition and surf travel.

In school, Ethan is a bright eighth-grader earning As and Bs and looking forward to attending San Clemente High School next year.

This summer he will be training in Nicaragua with surf coach Erik Krammer of International Surf Services and also enjoying his other passion, fishing, on a trip to Alaska.—Andrea Swayne

Page 14

and are surfing up to it. Even though the conditions weren’t perfect the surfers really rose to the challenge.”

Niguel Hills, Vista Del Mar, Bernice Ayer, Marco Forster and Don Juan Avila teams came in third through seventh, respectively.

Event No. 4—the makeup for the January San Clemente contest—is set for Saturday, Feb. 28 in Huntington Beach at Goldenwest Street. DP

DIVISION 1 // TEAM: 1. Shorecliffs, 265; 2. Thurston, 201; 3. Niguel Hills, 104; 4. Vista Del Mar, 90; 5. Bernice Ayer, 84; 6. Marco Forster, 81; 7. Don Juan Avila, 49.

BOYS: 1. Hagan Johnson, Shorecliffs; 2. Kade Matson, Shorecliffs; 3. Ryan Martin, Shorecliffs; 4. Kai McPhillips, Shorecliffs; 5. Taj Lindblad, Shorecliffs; 6. Jonah Clark, Thurston. BOYS LONGBOARD: 1. Ethan Mudge, Shorecliffs; 2. Jameson Roller, Thurston; 3. Ben Kappes, Niguel Hills; 4. Bryce Mattox, Niguel Hills; 5. Kai McPhillips, Shorecliffs; 6. Barrett Miller, Shorecliffs. GIRLS: 1. Kirra Pinkerton, Shorecliffs; 2. Kayla Coscino, Thurston; 3. Kelly Smith, Thurston; 4. Claire Kelly, Thurston; 5. Lexi Alston, Bernice Ayer; 6. Alexis Morgan, Shorecliffs. GIRLS LONGBOARD: 1. Liv Stokes, Thurston; 2. Alexa Ross, Vista Del Mar; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, Shorecliffs; 4. Rachel Hall, Marco Forster; 5. Kendal Osorio, Marco Forster; 6.

Lola Fisher, Thurston. COED BODYBOARD: 1. Hayden Stein, Niguel Hills; 2. Cole Fink, Thurston; 3. Anthony Smetona, Shorecliffs; 4. Nolan Tobias, Shorecliffs; 5. Liam Gillon, Marco Forster; 6. Olaf Trevilla, Bernice Ayer.

DIVISION 2 // TEAM: 1. Shorecliffs, 129; 2. Thurston, 95; 3. Dana Point, 41; 4. Bernice Ayer, 34; 5. Marco Forster, 33; 6. Don Juan Avila, 7. BOYS: 1. Diesel Rathgeber, Shorecliffs; 2. Noah Brown, Shorecliffs; 3. Raiki Nishida, Shorecliffs; 4. Liam Mateer, Shorecliffs; 5. Jett North, Thurston; 6. Eli Crane, Shorecliffs. BOYS LONGBOARD: 1. Dylan Clemens, Shorecliffs; 2. Matt Blunk, Thurston; 3. Hunter Stovesand, Dana Point; 4. Brandon Davis, Marco Forster; 5. Trenton Coleman, Shorecliffs; 6. Alex Wick, Thurston. GIRLS: 1.

Malia Mauch, Shorecliffs; 2. Grace Fink, Thurston; 3. Destiny Thompson, Thurston; 4. Coral Nordheim, Dana Point; 5. Lauren O’Neill, Shorecliffs; 6. Grace Winter, Bernice Ayer. GIRLS LONGBOARD: 1. Malia Mauch, Shorecliffs; 2. Cici Stewart, Thurston; 3. Avery Acquanita, Dana Point; 4. Hannah Pierce, Bernice Ayer; 5. Camille Hardgrave, Marco Forster.