November 20, 2015

LO C A L

November 20–26, 2015

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

INSIDE: Turkey Trot Event Guide and Map SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 8, ISSUE 47

Dedicating the District City celebrates dedication of the Lantern District at Pacific Coast Highway and Del Prado Avenue with an official ribbon cutting E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 7

Elected officials, Town Center Plan Committee members, city officials, city staff and residents gathered Monday for the official ribbon cutting and unveiling of new Lantern District gateway features to commemorate the completion of infrastructure improvements for the downtown district. Photo: Andrea Swayne

City Votes to Vacate Property No Longer Needed for Rightof-Way in Lantern District EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Developer of Mixed-use Project at PCH and Del Obispo Asks for Mello-Roos District EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING owners also reduces the city’s liability associated with it, Munoz said, but the city’s liability for the easement for underground utilities in the area remains the same as it is in all such easement areas.—Andrea Swayne

School District Hears Charter School Proposal

Dozens of parents and potential students listened to the Orange County Academy of Science and Arts presentation regarding the creation of a charter school within the Capistrano Unified School District.

Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week City Council Approves Return of Property to Lantern District Land Owners THE LATEST: At its Nov. 17 meeting, City Council voted unanimously to approve the vacation of three small parcels of land it no longer needs for right-of-way in the upcoast end of the Lantern District.

As part of the construction work and return to two-way traffic on Pacific Coast Highway and Del Prado Avenue, the city added a chicane (a narrowing/turn of a road as a traffic slowing mechanism) at the PCH/Del Prado split near the Lantern District archway. With the addition of the chicane, area businesses—such as Broderick Montessori School and Keli’s—lost their front entry driveways and a piece of land there is no longer needed by the city for right-of-way in the road. A small piece of land on the former UP Sports building property is also no longer needed by the city.

“When no longer in public use, by state law (the land) can be vacated back to a property owner,” said Brad Fowler, public works director.

Fowler went on to explain that a portion of the land being returned will be buildable and the agreements to vacate include Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

“irrevocable offers of dedication” meaning that if the city ever needs the land again, the owner must return it at no charge.

The buildable portion of the land in front of the school only extends to the allowable 10-foot setback area and the city will retain an easement on about 40 square feet of the land between the setback line and the sidewalk, along with a small patch of land on the street side of the sidewalk.

Councilman Scott Schoeffel asked whether this is common practice and enforceable and was assured that this is the case by City Attorney Patrick Munoz.

Resident Buck Hill asked whether the vacation of the three parcels of land—which although small are valuable property—is being done as “some kind of a political deal that is paying someone off” and how the move will benefit the citizens of Dana Point.

Munoz reiterated that the land was the property owners’ in the first place and that those owners originally gave it to the city for right-of-way and no longer needs it. But the larger issue, he said, is that the city was threatened with litigation by the property owners because of the loss of their entryways.

After showing the improvements would actually be good for the businesses the property owners agreed not to sue and to instead accept the return of the land, Munoz added.

WHAT’S NEXT: The largest patch of land, behind the sidewalk and nearest the school, although recently landscaped by the city will now be maintained by the school. The land on the street side of the sidewalk will continue to be maintained by the city.

Giving the land back to the property

THE LATEST: At Wednesday night’s Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting, the Orange County Academy of Science and Arts (OCASA) presented a petition to the board to create a charter school within the district.

During the presentation, OCASA representatives presented goals for the school such as a focus on an exploratory, integrative STEAM curriculum; ethnic and socioeconomic diversity among students; and having the school accessible to lowincome, underserved students, of which they want to comprise 25 percent of the student population. During the hearing, Trustee Gila Jones questioned whether that population would be adequately reached with the school’s current outreach plan.

The school’s projected enrollment is 255 students K-8 in academic year 20162017, 330 students in 2017-2018 and 375 students in 2018-2019.

According to the California Department of Education, Proposition 39 requires that school districts “make available, to all charter schools operating in their school district with projections of at least 80 units of average daily attendance (ADA), facilities that will sufficiently accommodate all of the charter’s in-district students, and that facilities be “reasonably equivalent” to other classrooms, buildings, or facilities in the district.”

OCASA’s Proposition 39 application submitted to the district states that, “Based upon the needs of the charter school and the residency of the projected student enrollment” OCASA would like to locate its facility “within the attendance area of San Juan Elementary school in San Juan Capistrano or within the attendance area of Las Palmas Elementary school in San Clemente.”

However, when asked if OCASA’s intention is to occupy a current school site, San Clemente resident Kapil Mathur, lead petitioner for OCASA, replied that the charter intent is to secure a private facility.” He said once a lease is signed, they may withdraw the Prop 39 application.

“Our plan is to lease a private facility to use as the school,” Mathur said. “We do not plan on using an existing school facility.”

During public comment on the hearing, 11 people spoke in favor of the charter school, with a couple dissenting

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viewpoints. Sally White, president of the Capistrano Unified Education Association, said she was glad to hear that OCASA doesn’t intend to take over a neighborhood school site, but doesn’t see a need for more choice.

“Our schools obviously offer STEM and we have great arts programs,” White said. “I don’t think we need more diversity or more choice, and I’m really tired of schools being targeted, so I would just say enough and be careful.”

WHAT’S NEXT: According to OCASA’s proposal, the district is required to express any objections about charter school attendance projections in writing on or before Dec. 1, and the school must respond to the objections by Jan. 2, 2016.

OCASA then expects a written preliminary facilities proposal from the district on or before Feb. 1, and the school has until March 1 to respond with any concerns or counter proposals. A final notification regarding the space to be given to OCASA is required prior to April 1.

FIND OUT MORE: To view OCASA’s petition and proposal, visit www.capousd.org and search under “Board of Trustees.”

For the full story, visit www.danapointtimes.com. —AJ

Developer Asks for Mello-Roos/CFD District THE LATEST: On Nov. 17, the Dana Point City Council voted 5-0 to adopt a resolution declaring its intent to establish a Doheny Beach Community Facilities District and to “authorize the levy of special taxes therein” and to schedule a public hearing.

Zephyr Partners, a developer that acquired the $50 million 9-acre site on the former mobile home park at Pacific Coast Highway and Del Obispo Street in July, filed a petition to form a Mello-Roos or Community Facilities District to pay for bonds for public improvements planned as part of the development.

The approved plan for the mixed-use development calls for construction of a public park along PCH, the payment of school district fees and other expenses amounting to a total of $8 million Zephyr has requested be funded via the proposed Mello-Roos/CFD tax.

According to Assistant City Manager Mike Killebrew, such resolutions that confirm a city’s intention to establish CFD districts are required by law as provided by the Mello-Roos Community Facilities District Act of 1982 as a first step toward the establishment of such special taxes.

City Attorney Patrick Munoz added that the purpose of passing “intent” resolutions (Cont. on page 4) www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) is to make sure the public is aware and informed so they can show up on the hearing date when the establishment of such special tax districts will be considered.

WHAT’S NEXT: The council’s vote set a Jan. 19, 2016 date for the consideration of Zephyr’s petition.—AS

Dana Point Could Partner with San Juan Capistrano for 2016 Trolley THE LATEST: After the cities of Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano both met their minimum ridership goals for their 2015 trolley programs, city officials are exploring the potential to team up for a connected trolley system for the summer of 2016.

In September, the Dana Point City Council received and filed a report on its trolley pilot program, which well-exceeded the target ridership, according to Brad Fowler,

director of public works and engineering.

The goal over the summer was to have 10 boardings per hour, or 500 per day, in order to secure grant funding from the Orange County Transportation Authority.

According to the city’s data, the trolley had 17,707 riders on the weekends between June 26 and Sept. 7, with an average of 14.8 riders per hour. Special events such as the Wine Festival in June and summer concerts in July and August attracted 4,894 riders, with an average of 54.38 riders per hour. The summer’s grand total was 22,601 riders, with an average of 17.52 riders per hour.

Fowler reported to the council that not only will the program continue next year, but the success of the inaugural trolley will allow the city to expand the service to seven days a week next summer. In addition, the vehicle contractor will be able to replace the leased shuttle vans used last summer with open-air trolleys.

In San Juan Capistrano, the City Council discussed the results of its summer trolley program at the Nov. 17 council meeting.

The San Juan trolley, which ran from

June 12 through Sept. 5, attracted 4,779 riders—including 4,010 riders on the weekends, 697 riders on the Fourth of July and 72 riders for the San Juan Summer Nights Concert Series.

WHAT’S NEXT: San Juan staff said Tuesday night that if the City Council authorizes an application for funds in January, the city could consider partnering with the city of Dana Point.

“Interest has been expressed by many of the passengers this past summer to provide trolley service to Dana Point since it has many attractions including the Dana Point Harbor, Doheny Park, and the beach,” staff reported. —AS and Allison Jarrell

Planning Commission to Discuss BevMo! Signage Application THE LATEST: According to an agenda report for the next Dana Point Planning

Business Beat

Lighthearted Chats with the People of Dana Point’s Business Community

HONORS

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

WHAT’S NEXT: The staff recommendation to the commission is to adopt the resolution to approve the signage. The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 23 at the Dana Point City Hall Council Chamber at 33282 Golden Lantern.

To view the application in its entirety, visit www.danpoint.org and under “City Government” under “Community Development” click “Planning Commission” to find the agenda item.—Eric Heinz

Stop and Talk

News from Dana Point’s business community

GELSON’S-THE SUPER MARKET 24 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.8147, www.gelsons.com The city of Dana Point has chosen Gelson’s-The Super Market as the Business of the Month for November 2015.

Nestled between two five-star resorts, Gelson’s-The Super Market has served the Dana Point community for almost 15 years. The first Gelson’s was built in 1951 by Bernie and Eugene Gelson in Burbank. Their hope was to have a grocery store that would “make shopping anywhere else unacceptable for customers who value quality products, cleanliness, convenience and personal service.”

These four pillars set the foundation of their mission statement which each Gelson’s adheres to.

After settling into the supermarket business, Gelson’s opened their first Orange County location in 1976, in Newport Beach. In 2001 they opened their third Orange County location, the Dana Point Gelson’s, in Monarch Bay Plaza. With 2016 marking their 15th anniversary in Dana Point, they are proud of the reputation they have built in the community, and the many people they have helped while visiting from around the globe.

The moment you set foot into the store, you are immediately transported into a very warm and inviting environment, from the fireplace at the front of the store, where you can relax, have a cup of

Commission meeting, the owners of Beverages & More, Inc., or BevMo!, have applied for eight new signs for the incoming business. The planned location for the business is 34215 Pacific Coast Highway.

The agenda report stated the business is asking for four canopy signs printed on the base of four awnings; three façade-mounted signs facing east, north and west; and one blade projecting sign. Of all the signs, the largest is proposed to be 26.25 square feet.

The applicant is Greg Endom and the property owners are John Kelly Ware and Katherine Louise Mayer Beadel.

BY ALISON JACQUES

KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGNS 24682 Del Prado Avenue, Suite 100 949.510.9198 Paula Goodman, CCIDC, opened Kitchen and Bath Designs about 14 years ago in San Juan Capistrano, then two years ago relocated to Del Prado Avenue bringing her closer to her Dana Point home.

Recently we stopped by her showroom, full of bath and kitchen decor samples, to get to know a little bit about the woman behind the business.

Dana Point Times: What do you like best about Dana Point?

Paula Goodman: I love the beauty of the natural environment.

What is your favorite book as an adult?

(Scrunches her face in thought) I like biographies.

At the Nov. 17 Dana Point City Council meeting Mayor Carlos Olvera (left) and Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Heather Johnston (right) presented Gelson’s employees (three in the center L to R) Jacquie Slobum, senior director of operations; Tom Oliphant, store director; and Ben Shick, assistant store manager, with recognition as Dana Point Business of the Month. Photo: DyAnne Weamire

coffee and chat, to the amazing displays in the deli, produce, seafood and bakery departments. Each item is meticulously hand-crafted with the freshest ingredients throughout the day.

During the holidays, Gelson’s busiest time of year, customers are still be able to find there is always a friendly face ready to

help escort you around the store or help you out to your car. Each and every day, Dana Point Gelson’s is striving to make sure all of its customers’ grocery needs are met.

—Compiled by Rachel Johnson, Assistant Administrative Analyst, Dana Point Community Development

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Name two things on your bucket list?

(Smiles) I don’t need a bucket list ... I’m very blessed.

What is your hobby?

Sports with my grandchildren.

What do you think of the new Dana Point, following Lantern District construction?

It’s an adjustment … It’ll be fine in the long run.

What inspires you?

Self-motivated and self-made people. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Dedicating the District City celebrates dedication of the Lantern District at Pacific Coast Highway and Del Prado Avenue with an official ribbon cutting

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he city of Dana Point commemorated an important milestone in its long-awaited Town Center Plan revitalization project on Monday with an official ribbon cutting at the recently-completed upcoast Lantern District gateway.

“This is truly a momentous occasion,” Mayor Carlos N. Olvera said at the ceremony. “The idea of having such a destination in Dana Point has three failed attempts. And this one took at least 20 years in the planning department, with a lot of public input, city residents’ input, to get what we wanted here. The last time we had a ribbon cutting on this street was some 86 years ago, when the Governor of the state of California came here to open up the newly-paved Pacific Coast Highway.”

Senator Pat Bates, Assemblyman Bill Brough, Board of Equalization member Diane Harkey and Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett also spoke at the dedication.

Brough, who was a member of City Council in 2013 and 2014, called the occasion truly memorable, as the project was of central focus during half of his term.

“I just want to give credit to the folks who came before me … since incorporation,” Brough said. “The vision that everyone worked hard for has come to fruition and I think it’s a beautiful project. There are a few people I particularly want to give credit to. Carlos Olvera was key in this process. Also Steven Weinberg deserves

A Lantern District mural displays a historic photograph of the Woodruff Development Office, which is still standing (in the background). Photo: Andrea Swayne

a great amount of credit for getting this project going, as well as Wayne Rayfield on the water district side. They were our partner in this and we couldn’t have done it without them; Brad Fowler, for going back and sharpening his pencil when this thing was ready to go; Matt Sinacori, out there daily … as businesses had questions. Matt was really the face of the city during these two years and he did a tremendous job.”

A monument sign explains the historic significance of the tile murals. Photo: Andrea Swayne

From (L to R): Councilman Joe Muller, Mayor Carlos N. Olvera, Councilman Richard Viczorek and Councilman John Tomlinson stand next to a monument with the names of the Town Center Subcommittee, City Council members and the design and construction team. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Along with elected officials, city staff, Chamber of Commerce staff and representatives, business owners and residents, most of the members of the Town Center Subcommittee—Wayne Rayfield (chairman), Lara Anderson (vice chair), Alice Anderson, Yvonne English, Jim Howard, Ronna Kincaid, Bob Mardian, Jim Miller, Kirsten Reynolds, Beverly Sels, Georgia Theodor, Terry Walsh, Karin Schnell and Steven Weinberg—were in attendance at the ribbon cutting.

Their names, along with the names of the current City Council members, city staff, consultants and contractors on the project are emblazoned on a brass plaque affixed to a Lantern District dedication monument unveiled as part of Monday’s event.

Attendees were serenaded by children from the Broderick Montessori School, located just steps from the Del Prado archway, who came outside to sing patriotic tunes for the occasion.

After the conclusion of the ceremony, attendees posed for photos and moved in for a closer look at the artwork and photographs making up the historic tile murals installed on the archway supports as well as a monument sign explaining the historical significance of each image.

HISTORY The idea of revamping Dana Point’s downtown area dates back to the 1990s with the idea of creating a more business- and pedestrian-friendly environment and promoting new development while maintaining the city’s small seaside community identity.

In 2004, the city hired San Franciscobased ROMA Design Group to begin work on a design for Town Center improvements, and a Town Center Subcommittee was formed in 2005 to work collaboratively

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to create the Town Center Plan (renamed Lantern District Plan) providing guidelines for the eventual project.

In 2006, City Council approved plans for the project and the California Coastal Commission gave it the thumbs-up in 2008.

Unfortunately, the timing coincided with the recession and the plan was postponed.

But the plan did not sit idle for long.

Reignited in 2013 by a coalition of residents, the South Coast Water District, City Council and city staff, construction to replace aging infrastructure in the area and improve the streetscapes began.

The project’s first phase was built from February through November 2014, followed by phase two from February to November of this year, with the final product coming in below the $20 million budget, according to city officials.

WHAT’S NEXT On Nov. 3, City Council certified the Town Center Initiative, a petition for changes to the Town Center Plan signed by more than 4,000 residents who feel the city’s actions with regard to the plan are running contrary to its original intent and favor developers over residents.

At its Dec. 1 meeting, after reviewing a staff report detailing the changes proposed in the initiative, City Council will vote whether to adopt the initiative or set it for special election, a move that could cost an estimated $109,272 to $120,597.

With several development permits either in process or approved, the district has entered into a phase of construction of private developments, with two new restaurants close to completion near the Del Prado archway.

Stay tuned for an update on all of the ongoing projects in the area. DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY 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.

Tuesday, November 17 KEEP THE PEACE Niguel Road, 33800 Block (1:21 p.m.) A library patron was talking too loudly and disturbing other patrons.

KEEP THE PEACE Bremerton Street, 33300 Block (2:54 p.m.)

A woman said furniture delivery guys broke a window and were denying it.

CITIZEN ASSIST Niguel Road, 33800 Block (1:19 p.m.) A woman called for help when her 2-yearold accidentally locked her and her other child out of the house.

DISTURBANCE Marina Vista Drive, 33100 Block (2:04 a.m.) A man and a woman were in a physical fight in the caller’s front yard. The caller had no idea who they were.

Monday, November 16 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Monarch Bay Drive, 0 Block (1:28 p.m.) A woman reported seeing a male transient walking on the bike trail that runs behind Gelson’s Market and Monarch Beach Golf Links. The subject, described as being 35 to 40 years old and wearing a baseball cap, sweatshirt and baggy jeans, was the same man the caller said “came at her with a stick” a couple of months ago.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Nottingham Way, 33300 Block (5:42 a.m.)

A drunken woman was crying in front of the caller’s apartment and claiming to be stranded. The caller invited the woman in and called police.

Sunday, November 15 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Mermaid Drive, 32700 Block (10:40 p.m.)

A woman called police when an unknown subject was at her door looking for someone, asking for money, arguing with her husband and trying to get inside.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Pacific Coast Highway, 34000 Block (8:38 p.m.) The owner of the Craft House, a new business under construction on PCH, requested a patrol check for a green van Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

and a beige van seen inside the open gate on the premises when no one should have been at the site.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Street of the Golden Lantern (8:07 p.m.) A tall, approximately 40-year-old man wearing a dark blue Chargers shirt with the name “Allen” on the back was seen pulling on car door handles near the Bank of America.

DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road/Victoria Blvd. (11:10 a.m.) A man who appeared to be homeless but has a gray van was accusing the caller of stealing his bicycle. The caller said the man was coming at him with a golf club.

DISTURBANCE Seastar Court, 0 Block (10:43 a.m.) A woman told deputies she believes her 18-year-old son is using drugs because he “never sleeps and talks too fast.” No weapons were reported and it was unclear whether he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the call.

KEEP THE PEACE Del Gado Road, 29600 Block (8:47 a.m.)

A man reported an ongoing problem with a neighbor who keeps yelling at his guests when they try to park in front of her house.

requested medics.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Street of the Silver Lantern, 33900 Block (1:42 a.m.) A man called to report a drunken woman in her 20s who showed up on his porch and tried to enter his house. The woman was described as being 5 feet 2 inches tall, with a medium build and wearing a blue sweater and black leggings.

Friday, November 13 DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (2:21 p.m.) A caller said his mother and godfather were refusing to give him his medicine, “AKA pot.” The call notes also said the caller had a 4-inch folding knife in his room. It was unclear whether that information was given to police by the caller or another source.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY El Encanto Avenue, 34100 Block (11:16 a.m.) A woman told police she was having a silver Saab towed off of her private property within the next 30 minutes and requested animal control to respond because there were several cats inside the vehicle. A deputy was also requested, as the owner of the car, a known transient, is “off balance.”

Thursday, November 12

Saturday, November 14

DISTURBANCE Callita Drive, 34000 Block (4:15 p.m.) A man called deputies to report his ex-wife was banging on the door.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Palisades Drive (5:07 p.m.) A man who appeared to be in his late-40s was seen standing on the railroad tracks talking on his cell phone.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Vista de Todo, 35200 Block (4:01 a.m.) A man heard noises in front of his residence and when he looked outside saw someone dressed in all black breaking into the driver’s side of his black Suburban. The man thought the subject was also trying to break into a neighbor’s house.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Pacific Coast Highway/Street of the Amber Lantern (3:39 a.m.) A man in front of the Circle K said he was going to shoot the caller and then reached into his jacket as if he had a gun. No weapon was seen but the man, who appeared to have been drinking, had something in his left side pocket, the caller said. The subject was described as being a short man in his 20s, in a jean jacket and jeans and with a cast on his arm.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Malaga Drive, 33800 Block (2:41 a.m.)

A caller’s friend was standing by with a woman who was in the front yard refusing to leave, crying and saying she thinks she was drugged and then dropped off at the location. Orange County Fire Authority was asked to respond as the woman had

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (11:27 a.m.) A patrol check was requested for a man who allegedly smokes pot all day on his balcony. The caller said the property manager refuses to do anything about it.

WELFARE CHECK Old Golden Lantern/El Camino Capistrano (8:24 a.m.) A 12-year-old boy was howling at the Doris Walker Overlook. The caller was concerned the boy may have a mental illness and should be in school.

Wednesday, November 11 DISTURBANCE Street of the Golden Lantern/Terra Vista (4:22 p.m.) A group of eight to 10 skateboarders were asked to leave the property.

They refused.

DISTURBANCE La Plaza/Pacific Coast Highway (3:37 p.m.) A caller reported three to four skateboarders in the park.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Naranja, 34400 Block (2:48 a.m.)

Three men in hoodies were seen checking car door handles.

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Community Meetings MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Planning Commission Meeting

6 p.m. at Dana Point City Hall, Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24

South Orange County Toastmasters Meeting

7 p.m.-8:40 p.m. Practice becoming a more confident communicator on Tuesdays at Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Avenue, Dana Point, 949.429.1794, 3944816.toastmastersclubs.org,

Dana Harbor Toastmasters

7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Fine tune your public speaking skills each Tuesday at the Capistrano Beach Church, 26975 Domingo Avenue, Capistrano Beach, 949.492.7181, 1707.toastmastersclubs. org.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club

7 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Join members of the volunteer-centered club for breakfast and a meeting each Wednesday at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, www.monarchbeachrotary.com.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26

Thanksgiving Day

City Hall offices will be closed through Friday, Nov. 27.

Dana Point Turkey Trot

6 a.m. Annual Thanksgiving Day 5K, 10K and Kids’ Gobble Wobble. Dana Point Harbor, 34624 Golden Lantern, www.turkeytrot.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1

Touism Business Improvement District (TBID) Meeting

1 p.m.-3 p.m. at Dana Point City Hall, Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. at Dana Point City Hall, Council Chamber, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org. www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

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

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City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor, > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING PICKET FENCE MEDIA Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Let’s Talk Turkey

T

hanksgiving is America’s national stuffing day.

It is the one holiday each year when overeating is considered patriotic.

It’s not just that we eat too much. We do that most days of the week. But on Thanksgiving, as Johnny Carson once said, we travel all across the country to be with people we only see once a year, and then discover once a year is way too often.

Turkey has become far more than a bird we eat at our annual feast day, a time when we count our blessings. The word has inserted itself in a veritable slew of slang phrases referencing arcane activities of all sorts. Why is kicking a habit called “going cold turkey?” (For years I thought it meant using leftovers in a sandwich). Who came up with the idea of talking turkey? When did people dance the Turkey Trot or hold a turkey shoot? Where does the name come from anyway? What does the bird turkey have to do with the nation Turkey?

(They are related). And why do we call a failed movie or an inept, dislikeable person a turkey? Even more mysteriously, how

the heck did bowling three strikes become known as a turkey?

Being inveterately curious, I attempted to ascertain the backstory to some of these weird and wonderful expressions related to the national bird. Here is what my feeble research was able to discover.

Three strikes in a row: According to the National Bowling Association, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, bowling proprietors used to present live turkeys to bowlers who threw three consecutive strikes around Thanksgiving.

Cold turkey: This usage dates from the early part of the 20th century, as in this example from The Des Moines Daily News, May 1914: “Plain speaking/getting down to business is called ‘talking WAVELENGTHS

By Jim Kempton cold turkey,’ which has been shortened in present day speech to just ‘talking turkey.’”

Talking cold turkey meant no nonsense talking and its partner expression “going cold turkey” meant no nonsense doing.

The Turkey Trot was a turn of the 20th century popular dance during the ragtime music era. When the Vatican denounced it as immoral and suggestive, conservative members of society felt the dance promoted decadence and tried to get it banned at public functions, which of course only increased its popularity.

Turkey, meaning a failure, especially a failed theatrical production or movie, was common in 1927 theater slang while the meaning “a person considered inept or undesirable” was first regularly used in 1951.

Both come from the idea of the turkey being a silly and stupid animal.

Turkey shoot became a synonym for an easy target during WWII from soldiers holding marksmanship contests. Turkeys were tied behind a log with their heads showing as targets.

And why was this bird called a turkey?

The University of Princeton website explains that the guinea hen, which looks very similar to our American fowl, was an Ottoman Empire import from Africa. It was dubbed the “Turkey hen.” When colonists brought American birds back from the new world, the name Turkey stuck for them as well.

In any case, they bring us great eating.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Jim Kempton, an author and recent grandfather, has frequently overheard the word turkey in connection to his own name; he also sports a distinctive fleshy protuberance that hangs under his chin, simulating those of our beloved bird. 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

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, Debra Holm, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 8, Issue 47. 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.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Letters to the Editor JAY VAN VELZY’S LETTER MISGUIDED STEVE STEWART, Dana Point

After reading Jay Van Velzy’s letter, “Save Dana Point from What?” in last week’s paper, I Googled his organization, CAVELBLTER, and discovered the organization is endorsed by both Mickey Mouse and … Donald Trump. That would explain his confused and sarcastic comments about the Town Center Initiative and Betty Hill’s letter.

Van Velzy fails to mention, and possibly does not even know about, the Majestic project. It is a big reason why there is a Town Center Initiative. Majestic is massive and blows up the height, residential density, parking regulations and commercial development restrictions of the Town Center Plan (now renamed the Lantern District Plan).

It was entitled by variances granted by the Mayor and Assemblyman Bill Brough sitting as council members in 2014. The Planning Commission turned this project down because it was so egregious. Jay’s letter completely ignores that reality, as if the initiative just came out of nowhere.

The initiative election will cost taxpayers about 0.5 percent of the $21 million Dana Point spent on Pacific Coast Highway and Del Prado Avenue in the last 24 months.

And yes, as Jay so accurately noted, the same lots and stores are still vacant and there is no sign of commercial development after all that construction work and money spent. Jay should ask the Mayor and Assemblyman Brough why they voted to commit so many taxpayer dollars to this project without gaining any guarantees of private development commensurate to their public expenditure.

Betty Hill is supporting our community’s vision with the Town Center Initiative and with her presence at council meetings, making sure that Dana Point Resident’s interests are represented. The real locals are doing what they can to keep Dana Point the same place at least 4,000 petition signers have indicated they want it to be.

OC SAILING & EVENTS CENTER NEEDS SAVING FROM COUNTY RFP DIANE WENZEL, San Clemente

I’m writing on behalf of the Stakeholder Consortium at the OC Sailing & Events Center (OCSEC) in Dana Point Harbor.

Our stakeholders provide public access boating education and recreation for free

Page 9

or at a very low cost to the community. Our group is composed of Mariner Sea Scouts, Saddleback College, Dana Outrigger Canoe Club, Westwind Sailing, Jazzercise and AA. Together we provide nearly 100 percent of the public access programming and each of our groups have been operating at the center for a minimum of 25 years.

Over the past eight years, we’ve experienced significant changes at the center which have made operations increasingly difficult and have resulted in a reduction of public access programs to a fraction of what once was available for the community. The recent release of an RFP (request for proposal) for management of the center has us concerned to say the least.

OCSEC (formerly the Dana Point Youth & Group Facility) was developed with a tideland grant that was made with the understanding that the land would be developed for recreation purposes. The land was set aside in October 1977 and the Dana Point Harbor Youth & Group Activities Consortium was formed to coordinate activities at the site and to advise the county on practical operations for all groups concerned. When the advisory board was organized, their first priority was to establish an “operational plan for organizing a marine oriented recreation (Cont. on page 10) www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 9) program” and the second priority was to advise on “construction and operation of appropriate facilities.”

Volunteers on this committee spent countless hours evaluating development and use of the facility. The Dana Point Youth & Group Facility opened on Columbus Day 1985. The facility is surrounded by extensive docking facilities to accommodate boats used for the many educational sailing programs.

When OC Dana Point Harbor (OCDPH) acquired the facility from OC Parks, the name was changed to the OC Sailing & Events Center with this mission: The OC Sailing & Events Center’s mission is to provide sailing and water based experiences to our community while also hosting social and business events at our harbor location.

As anyone can plainly see, OCDPH has fallen short of upholding its mission. And we, the stakeholders, have been treated more like a burden to the county than partners in serving the community.

The RFP was recently released. The terms required of the lessee are extreme and require the bidder to have very deep pockets. This rules out any possibility of our consortium of nonprofit and low-profit organizations from submitting a successful bid.

Had the county really wanted the center stakeholders to succeed, it would have been more considerate when drafting the RFP. The county expects the RFP process to wrap up in the next few months. If the community-serving programs at the Center are important to you, it is critical that you stand up and be counted. Numbers matter. Please take a moment now to like our Facebook page and sign our petition.

Thanks for your support.

Find us on Facebook by searching “Save Harbor Park.” To see the petition, go to www.change.org and search “Save the OC Sailing and Events Center.”

INCREASED AIRPLANE NOISE OVER DANA POINT A REALITY KAREN JANTZEN, Dana Point

Finally someone else (Carol Wilson, in her letter to the editor: “Urge FAA not to Increase Flight Paths above Dana Point” in the Nov. 13 issue of the DP Times) has noticed the increased flight noise over Dana Point.

About a year ago, I contacted John Wayne Airport, FAA, and the city of Dana Point. I could count on flight wake up calls in the morning, and heard flights far earlier than John Wayne Airport’s first flights.

The flight noise was also heard and the planes were visible during the day from Salt Creek. Upon inquiry, I was surprised that none of our 5-star resorts acknowledged the increase in noise/traffic.

When I contacted John Wayne Airport, I was informed and referred to the FAA, which establishes routes. No luck with a contact. The city of DP investigated further and the information provided to the city concluded that flight patterns had not changed. Not true.

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

be money well spent on behalf of all Dana Point residents.

CURB OUR INCESSANTLY ANNOYING FOG HORN DAN SLY, Dana Point

The County of Orange is in the process of accepting RFPs for a private company to handle management of the OC Sailing & Events Center at the Dana Point Harbor. Photo: Andrea Swayne

While it is understandable that weather and other conditions dictate flight patterns, this was not the case. There was a consistent, regular schedule that seemed to subside for a while.

Hopefully, this will be investigated further.

IN RESPONSE TO JAY VAN VELZY’S TOWN CENTER INITIATIVE QUESTIONS BETTY HILL, Capistrano Beach

I am happy to answer questions posed

by Jay Van Velzy in last week’s issue of the DP Times about the Town Center Initiative and why it is needed. The Town Center Initiative gives Dana Point residents a voice in the development of Town Center (now renamed the Lantern District) by requiring that the city follow the intent and requirements of the Town Center Plan (now renamed the Lantern District Plan). A local business district will be promoted with a village atmosphere and convenient parking desired by residents, hopefully avoiding the traffic congestion and parking nightmares of other coastal towns. Commercial development will provide jobs and sales tax revenue. Fulfilling the vision for Town Center’s future is the primary objective, not just filling the diversely held vacant lots.

In October 2014, Councilmen Carlos Olvera, Steven Weinberg and Bill Brough approved a project in Town Center with many exceptions to the Town Center Plan over the denial of the Planning Commission and the objections of hundreds of Dana Point residents. The developer used unintended interpretations of the Town Center Plan for three huge “ Irvine style” buildings with 109 condos, a small percentage of retail use, a variance for an extra (fourth) floor, elevator towers at 59 feet (19 feet over the 40-foot limit), several million dollars in parking concessions and other exceptions in their design.

Recently the City Council approved a major reduction in the Town Center Plan parking requirements for develop-

ers to two spaces per 1,000 sq. ft. for any nonresidential use including restaurants and retail—barely enough for employees.

The cost to address a parking shortage is transferred to the taxpayers. Existing businesses and nearby neighborhoods would also be impacted. It requires Coastal Commission approval, which staff estimates will probably take over a year.

Town Center development will take more than a decade to accomplish but Dana Point’s coastal location is extremely desirable and rare. Development is currently underway in Town Center. Besides the three buildings mentioned above, there are two restaurants under construction near Blue Lantern and the BevMo! project on PCH has been approved. However, further projects may be delayed as developers hope to take advantage of the city’s proposed parking changes and increase their profits.

Adopting the initiative will give residents added protection by providing a consistent, responsible and fair basis for future development based on the Town Center Plan, even as planning commissioners and city councilmen change. The approval process is improved for all parties by clarifying that the three-floor and 40-foot height limit must be followed. The initiative also requires that residents be given more timely information about new projects and adequate story pole installation. Developers must provide adequate parking for their projects, as specified in the Town Center Plan.

Based on what two city councils have done so far, it appears that the city is willing to make exceptions and changes to the Town Center Plan to accommodate developers. Perhaps the city feels the need to justify the $21 million invested on the Town Center design and its sidewalks, streets and landscaping. Developer fees to recoup some of that cost were lowered significantly. An additional $600,000 has been spent on the decorative arch and the council just approved $500,000 for wayfinding signs. The city could adopt the initiative at no cost; however, the estimated $120,000 for this important and timely election will

Page 10

The fog horn at the harbor mouth has become a complete nuisance. Boaters are incessantly activating the fog horn via remote using their marine radios as per the instructions mounted on the horn. The horn is sounded several times each day for hours at a time. There is no fog! The sound can be heard over most of the city and is annoying enough but some of us actually enjoy being at the Harbor and on the water in our kayaks and paddleboards and the sound of the horn is deafening and completely annoying.

I beg for the county to stop the ability of boaters being able to self-activate the horn as they obviously cannot be trusted not to play with the “toy” at all hours of the day.

Being a former member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary I understand the importance of the horn when it is required due to weather conditions but this abuse of the horn not only lessens the useful life of the horn but also leads to the “cry wolf” mentality.

MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO THERESA NOWAK, Capistrano Beach

I had recently written a letter to the editor, “Lets Create ‘Walk and Pick Up Your Butts Day’” (DP Times, Oct. 23 issue). Since it was published, I have been commenting to my family and friends that I swear I am seeing less cigarette butts on my walk. They thought possibly neighbors are picking them up. So imagine my excitement when on a recent walk I came across a gentleman with one of those long grab tools picking up cigarette butts.

I approached him and said, “Thank you sir so much for what you are doing, and it is so nice to see someone caring about our neighborhood and the environment.”

He replied, “Well you know they all end up in the ocean and with El Niño coming it will be bad.” He also went on to tell me the pitfalls of smoking but I immediately told him I never started. I just kept thanking him over and over. He also told me, “Well I am just hoping as people drive by they pick up on that old saying, ‘Monkey See, Monkey Do.’” Yes, that is exactly what you will inspire!

I should have taken a picture … I didn’t even think of that. I have to start thinking like the young kids and snap photos of everything. If I see him again, I will get that pic.

So, instead of my idea of trying to get the city government involved by creating a Walk and Pick up Your Butts Day, let us just do as this wonderful citizen does and be inspired by the old saying, “Monkey See, Monkey Do.” 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.

www.danapointtimes.com

Runners, walkers and strollers: Take your marks.

The race for one and all is back!

For nearly 40 years, thousands of trotters—from the young in age to the young at heart of beginning walkers, casual runners and elite competitors—have gathered in the wee hours of Thanksgiving Day to “Run the race before they stuff their face.”

Like the time-honored customs of giving thanks, parade viewing, pumpkin pie eating, football watching and turkey-induced napping were established, so too has Orange County’s tradition of friendly competition taken root as neighbors, families, friends, volunteers and clubs descend on Dana Point Harbor to race in, cheer on and support participants in the annual Dana Point Turkey Trot.

This year marks the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce’s 38th annual race along Dana Point’s pristine coastline. On Thursday, Nov. 26, novice runners will compete side-by-side experienced contenders in the 5K and 10K races that see participants of all ages walking and running their way across the finish line. The races’ flat, scenic course takes racers on a coastal tour of the county’s southernmost port, the famed surf breaks of Doheny State Beach and California’s storied Coast Highway.

Over four decades, participants have helped the Turkey Trot raise more than $500,000 for regional nonprofits. The tradition of giving continues this year as a portion of race registration fees benefit Family Assistance Ministries—a San Clemente-based nonprofit

NOVEMBER 26, 2015

Tag Your Posts and Photos:

#DPTurkeyTrot @TurkeyTrot

@DPTurkeyTrot

providing rental and transportation assistance, financial counseling and medical screenings to aid Orange County residents on the verge of homelessness.

Donations can be made now through Thanksgiving Day at turkeytrot.com/charities.

Registration for the 5K, 10K and 1-mile Kids’ Gobble Wobble is available at turkeytrot.com. Online registration closes at midnight Monday, Nov. 23. Participants can register up to their Thanksgiving Day race time. Register in person from noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 25 and starting at 6 a.m. on Turkey Trot morning at the Dana Marina Plaza. On-site race entry fees increase by $10.

The plaza is also home to packet pick-ups and a two-day health and wellness expo. Identification is required for packet pick-up.

The 10K kicks off festivities at 7 a.m. Participants can recycle their Halloween get-ups and enter the annual costume contest that crowns winners in individual and group categories before the 5K Open start.

Early-morning races will see close finishes, but it’s the day’s final event that packs the most excitement—the youngest trotters take their marks at 10:15 a.m. for the 1-mile Kids’ Gobble Wobble. It’s a perfect cap to a morning of cheerful competition before the turkey hits the table.

Parking is available Dana Hills High School, located at 33333 Golden Lantern. A free shuttle will run to and from the harbor throughout the morning. So arrive early, warm-up, explore the Health & Wellness Expo, snap a photo with Drumstick and enjoy the 38th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot.

Additional information on registration, donations, parking and more is available at turkeytrot.com.

Register Now! Turkeytrot.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

Saturday | 21 DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Seasonal produce, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park each Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

COMPILED BY STAFF

Friday | 20 MEET THE AUTHOR 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Meet author Marti Melville who will discuss her book, The Déjà vu Chronicles. Walk-ins welcome. Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m-7 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf luxury catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor. Tickets are $49. Every Friday and Sunday. See more events online. Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603, www.danawharf.com.

MIKE HAMILTON 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music by Mike Hamilton at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

DANA POINT HISTORY TOUR 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. This two-hour docent-led walking tour explores the history of the Headlands area and covers approximately 1.5 miles in distance. Tours run on the third Saturday of the month and have rotating themes. Maximum tour capacity is 10 people. RSVP to wgintern@danapoint. com or 949.248.3527. Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point, www.danapoint.org.

ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. A guided tour of San Juan Capistrano’s historic adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Occurs every Saturday. Meet at the train depot on Verdugo Street. $5 donation benefits the SJC Friends of the Library. For more information, call 949.489.0736 or visit www.sjcfol.org.

PAINTING AND VINO Noon-3 p.m. Sip wine while participating in a step-by-step instructed painting class (Cont. on page 19)

EDITOR’S PICK

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26: 38TH ANNUAL DANA POINT TURKEY TROT 6 a.m.-11 a.m. Join thousands of runners and walkers of all ages and abilities who have made the Turkey Trot a Thanksgiving Day tradition. Enter the 10K or 5K or Kids’ Gobble Wobble race. Costumed participants may enter the annual costume contest for prizes.

Event also includes a two-day health and wellness expo, Wednesday, Nov. 25, from noon to 7 p.m. and all day on race day. Runners may register in person during the health expo on Nov. 25. Onsite race day registration opens at 6 a.m. followed by the 10K 7 a.m., 5K Masters at 8:30 a.m., costume contest at 9:10 a.m., 5K Open at 9:30 a.m. and the Gobble Wobble at 10:15 a.m. Runners should arrive 60-90 minutes before race start time. Cost: $15-$55. Online registration closes at 11:55 p.m. on Monday, Nov. Dana Point Harbor, 34624 Golden Lantern, at Golden Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive. To register or for more information, visit www.turkeytrot.com.

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Page 17

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 17) taught by a professional artist. All supplies provided. $45. Register online at www. paintingandvino.com. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

OPEN LIFE DRAWING WITH LIVE MODELS 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Get practical experience drawing from a nude model. Cost is $12 per class. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

ARTISANAL FOOD CRAFTING WORKSHOP 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Join Chef Kerri Cacciata and The Ecology Center to learn hands-on and enjoy the art and science behind artisanal food crafting. Workshop participants will learn how to use edible ingredients to create artisanal gifts and make herb bundles, flavored salts and sugars, infused oils, simple syrups, heirloom dried soup mixes and more. Take home a personalized salt blend, herb bundle and choice of infused oil or simple syrup. Tickets are $40 for members, $50 for non-members.

The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Tuesday | 24

MC EXPRESS 7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Live music at Harpoon Henry’s. 34555 Golden Lantern St, Dana Point, 949.493.2933, www.windandsearestaurants.com/harpoonhenrys.

POWDER AND POOF! 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Female impersonator show. Dinner Reservations recommended starting at 6 p.m. for best seating. Show reservations can be made by calling in advance. Adele’s at San Clemente Inn, 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesanclementeinn.com.

Sunday | 22 PAPERMOON GYPSYS 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Live music every Sunday at the Point Restaurant. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Trips available every day of the week. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary depending on the vessel. Call for more information. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Monday | 23 TEEN TIME 4 p.m-5 p.m. Teens 12 to 17 years old can enjoy a different activity every week in the Dana Point Library Community Room. This week is a special games day afternoon. No pre-registration required.

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

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

At the Movies: ‘Miss You Already’ is a Hit

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he bittersweet mix of her new memoir Wildflower and the tearjerker Miss You Already marks a breakthrough transition for Drew Barrymore, from actress/producer to entrepreneur/family woman.

And it’s no surprise her new film is a womenpenned ode to friendship, seeing how much Drew values her friends after overcoming so many personal battles.

After Jess (Barrymore) moves to London when she’s 8 years old, she quickly befriends wild child Milly (Toni Collette) and the two develop a lifelong Photo: Courtesy friendship. Over the years, Jess settles down into normalcy with her career and husband, while Milly continues

HALF-PRICED WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Half price on Tuesdays but trips are available every day of the week. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

SCHOOL’S OUT MOVIE 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Movie for all children with a parent or caregiver. Call for movie title.

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

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at the Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument, bring your voice, The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

FREE CONCERT OF THANKSGIVING 7:30 p.m. Saddleback College’s Community Chorale presents a free concert.

Donations will be accepted to benefit Mary’s Kitchen, a nonprofit that feeds Orange County’s disadvantaged community. The program includes jazz performances, commercial music ensembles and a three-piano performance by members of the keyboard studies class. Admission is free. McKinney Theatre, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

TACO TUESDAY WITH DJ BAIT 8:30 p.m.-midnight. Every Tuesday at The Swallow’s Inn. $1 street tacos 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., $2 Bud/Bud Light drafts, $2 shot/drink specials, $5 Abreojos margaritas and shots, $2 regular tacos. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

Wednesday | 25 DOWNTOWN SJC FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. www. farmersmarketsjc.com.

JOY OF LIVING BIBLE STUDY 9:15 a.m.-11 a.m. Women of all ages are invited to this interdenominational group

that meets Wednesdays through June 1.

A start-up fee of $30 is requested. Free child care is provided. The study includes worship, discussion groups, inspirational talks and monthly luncheons. Talega Life Church, 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, 949.493.1980.

Thursday | 26 CHARITY THANKSGIVING DINNER 11 a.m. Brick pizza restaurant is hosting its annual free Thanksgiving meal to the homeless population and needy families in town. People can make \canned goods donations through the business to Family Assistance Ministries.

Brick Pizza, 216 North El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.887.3295, www.brickpizzeria.com.

THANKSGIVING POTLUCK 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. With the bar open and the kitchen closed, customers are welcome to bring food to share potluck style.

The Point Restaurant and Bar, 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

THANKSGIVING BUFFET AT VUE 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Vue Restaurant presents a festive holiday Champagne buffet and live music in their ocean-view dining room. $99 for adults, $40 for children 6-12, not including tax and gratuity. Valet parking will be available at a discounted rate of $5. Call for more information or reservations. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135

Page 19

to party and be sporadic despite having an office job and a family at home. By the time they reach 40, Jess finally fulfills her longtime wish to be pregnant, while Milly receives a blow with news that she has breast cancer.

Miss You Already was directed by Catherine Hardwicke, whose eclectic career spans from the indie hits Thirteen (2003) and Lords of Dogtown (2005) to the guilty pleasures Twilight (2008) and Red Riding Hood (2011). Like most of her movies, even if they’re not perfect, you can tell Hardwicke cares about the characters and story she’s filming. Collette delivers the serious, cancer moments effortlessly and confidently, while clearly having fun with the party scenes. Barrymore, is mostly the straight man here with many scenes where Jess is supporting Milly, and she does it well. Miss You Already doesn’t really have witty characters or dialogue, but it’s good enough to watch with your girl friends at home. DP Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.487.7577, www.marriott.com.

OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE MOONLIGHT MADNESS 8 p.m. Outlets at San Clemente will kick off the holiday shopping season with an inaugural Moonlight Madness event on Thanksgiving night. Families are invited to enjoy family-friendly entertainment among the various outdoor courtyards, promenades and holiday décor, including a live, fresh-cut Christmas tree from Mt. Shasta decorated with 3,000 twinkling lights. Shops will remain open all night and throughout Black Friday on Nov. 27 until 10 p.m. 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, www.outletsatsanclemente.com.

UPCOMING: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27 HIKE OFF YOUR THANKSGIVING FEAST + PICNIC 10 a.m.-noon. Bring your Thanksgiving leftovers and join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo for a post-holiday picnic and hike up the North Ridge trail and back down the Sycamore Loop Trail. Savor the sights, smells and sounds of late autumn in the wildlands. Ages 8 and up. Adults $10, children $5. The Richard and Donna O’Neil Conservancy, call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

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

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

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

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LIST

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

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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

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

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

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

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto

34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Represent.xyz

949.274.0590, www.represent.xyz

DANCE/FITNESS

Club Salsa Dance Studio

34202 Camino Capistrano, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

IMAGES/Creative Solutions

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

HANDYMAN

Beach City Handyman

33292 Bremerton St., 810.569.7295, gnarlyconceptdesign.com

MASSAGE

HAULING

Cheapest Hauling

Call Robert 949.973.6288

Crystal Clyde Intuitive Bodywork

32840 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. E, 949.584.2462, www.crystalclyde.com

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

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

State Farm/Ted Bowersox

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

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

PET GROOMING

Dawgy Style Groom Shop

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

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

UPHOLSTERY

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

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction

949.444.6323, www.offshoreconstruction.org

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

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

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Page 20

www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com HELP WANTED MCCOOL FLOWERS IS HIRING! Front of the store retail position. Must have good communication skills, computer and phone skills. Hours are 9am to 3pm. Call 949-488-7988 or come by.

SERVICES HANDYMAN CHRIS Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More.

Phone Chris – 949 510 6645 WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed.

Phone Chris -949 510 6645

WANTED LARGE POSTAGE STAMP COLLECTIONS! Nick (619) 672-0434

OBITUARY

Marilee Taylor Montgomery

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

Mary Elizabeth “Liz” Taylor, née McGee (10/28/1926 – 11/7/2015), passed away in her sleep on November 7, after a short illness. She was 89. Liz, a native of Ireland, came to America at the age of 5, living in and around Philadelphia until 1967, when the family moved to California. They lived in the Dana Point area for many years, and owned a piano and organ store in Laguna Hills. In 2010, Liz moved to Yachats, Ore. to be near her son. Liz eschewed the traditional role of women in her day, working all her adult life, even hosting her own radio program in the 1950s and serving as her union’s shop steward when she was an agent for a major life insurance company. She is survived by her children, James Taylor of Oregon, Marilee Taylor Montgomery of Santa Rosa, Calif., and Cameron Taylor of Detroit, Mich.; her sisters Kathy Jennings and Peggy Whisted; three grandchildren, Suni, Chrissie and Brian; and great-grandchild, Zoe Elizabeth.

Her husband, Freeman James Taylor, predeceased her in 1978. She was loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

“Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

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

Page 21

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DP DP LIVING Dana Point

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Reading with Wright by Christopher Wright

On the Border

I

remember a song from the 1970s by Al Stewart that rings in my mind with the refrain, “on the border.” It was about gun running during the Spanish Civil War. Today when you say, “on the border,” many images spring to mind. The border or the idea of borders is always in the news thanks to an upcoming election and all the turmoil in Syria.

OC Public Libraries’ The Big Read selection takes up this theme as well. From Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, Orange County Public Libraries are reading Into the Beautiful North by Luis Albert Urrea. Our Tea READING Time Book Club at the WITH WRIGHT Dana Point Library read

By Chris Wright this book and discussed it at its October meeting. Into the Beautiful North is a novel about courage, adventure and acceptance of others.

Here are some other interesting books in which the border could be said to be a character. T. Jefferson Parker, who was born and raised in Orange County, has the Charlie Hood crime series revolving around a DEA agent who makes frequent forays back and forth across the border.

It started as a traditional crime detective but recently added on some magic realism qualities with an Anglo narcoficante who might be the devil himself.

One of my favorite books about the border is by Philip Caputo and is set in Arizona on the border. It’s called Crossers and was published in 2009. Caputo has a home there as well, so you know he has an intimate familiarity with the land. It starts with a man escaping the tragedy of 9/11 and the Twin Towers seeking refuge in his ancestral home in Arizona only to be confronted by more violence along the border. It’s a generational tale in which Caputo blends

the past and present artfully as he alternates between the two. Really not a thriller, more like Cormac McCarthy’s All the Pretty Horses meets Larry McMurtry’s Lonesome Dove. Good imagery and description of the setting also raise the importance of the land to a character in its own right.

Border stories are not all violence.

There’s a mystery series set in Texas by Allana Martin that shows the border as a community on both sides of the river who can come together to solve problems and meet challenges. Texana Jones is the owner of a trading post and her husband is the county vet. She has lots of adventures in Presidio County along the Rio Grande. The first story in the five-book series, Death of a Healing Woman, was written in 1996. The last book was written in 2003 and it’s a pity the author has not picked up the pen since then. If you like Tony Hillerman’s Jim Chee and Joe Leaphorn novels and Alexander McCall Smith’s No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency you will enjoy this series in which a strong woman builds bridges with others and is always there for those in need.

Back in June the library started its Tea Time Book Club led by Branch Manager Susan Piña. This informal club meets every fourth Monday of the month from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and tea is served. On Monday, Nov. 23 the club will meet to discuss The Rosie Project. Bring your favorite tea cup and join us. Everyone is welcome.

For more information about upcoming events across the Orange County Public Libraries system, visit the website at www. ocpl.org. The site also provides access to online databases, digital copies of popular magazines, PDF copies of historical sheet music, ebooks, audiobooks, jobseeker resources and more.

Chris Wright is not sure if he lives to read or if he reads to live. He has been a public librarian with the OC Public Libraries since 2006 and currently works at the Dana Point branch. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Sudoku

BY ERIC HEINZ, DANA POINT TIMES

T

housands of people were in attendance for the inaugural Nov. 14 tree lighting ceremony at the Outlets at San Clemente atop the Marblehead bluffs at the Capistrano Beach/San Clemente border, marking the opening of a project more than a decade in the making.

A concert by the band American Authors, along with a variety of other musical and dance performances also entertained the crowd.

Susan Jennrich, general manager of the Outlets, said the first few days have been going according to plan.

“For the most part, we’re ready,” Jennrich said. “We’ll be sneaking construction people in after hours to finish up final touches, but we’re ready for the public.”

Outlets representatives said they estimate more than 7,500 people were present for the event and since then the mall has attracted a steady stream of shoppers.

“We’ve been so happy with the number of people who have come to visit us,” Jennrich said. “Stores are already talking about meeting sales goals every day. It’s been so fun to see people look around with wide eyes.” DP

OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE BY THE NUMBERS • 500,000 square feet on 52 acres with phase one build-out encompassing more 325,000 square feet • 35 retailers at grand opening with up to 70 retail locations in phase one • 12+ restaurants at final build-out, four with ocean views • 3,339 parking spaces, including a twostory parking structure • 1,500-square-foot VIP lounge with private restrooms, relaxing seating areas, TVs, complimentary snacks and beverages and a shaded terrace overlooking Center Court • 24 towers, including a clock tower • 351 archways • Two women’s restrooms with luxurious lounges, two men’s restrooms and six family restrooms • One observation deck with scenic ocean views overlooking the Sea Summit at Marblehead coastal development and San Clemente’s North Beach • 280,000 square feet of landscaped areas to include 724 trees, 207 palm trees and 38,145 shrubs and vines maintained by a state-of-the-art, water-conserving, lowvolume drip irrigation system

E

Last week’s solution:

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

San Clemente Outlets Open

Pet of the Week: Binx

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

A crowd of people numbering in the thousands gathered at the newly-opened Outlets at San Clemente on Nov. 14 for its inaugural tree lighting ceremony and concert. Photo: Eric Heinz

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

ight-month-old Binx is a handsome kitty who is ready to be your new best friend! Exceptionally friendly, Binx is always jumping into a lap for some extra cuddle time or simply purring at your ankles. He loves other cats and would likely fit well into any home.

If you would like to know more about Binx, please call the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at the shelter, 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente. DP

Page 22

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DP LIVING

City Celebrates Vets Veterans Day service at Strand Vista Park well attended

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t was standing room only at the Veterans Memorial at Strand Vista Park on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, as a crowd of approximately 200 gathered to honor those who have served.

Brad Fowler, director of public works for the city of Dana Point and retired U.S. Navy Captain, served as master of ceremonies.

Following Fowler’s opening remarks, the Marine Aircraft Group 39 Headquarters Company Color Guard from Camp Pendleton advanced the colors, Maria Elena Banks sang the “National Anthem,” the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Lucca McCormick from Cub Scout Pack 712 and the invocation was delivered by Lt. Matthew Drayton, CHC, USN, Chaplain for MAG 39 at Camp Pendleton.

The keynote speech was delivered by Command Sergeant Major Michael J.

Pritchard, USMC, Marine Aircraft Group 39, Camp Pendleton.

Also speaking were Phil Jimenez, Commander, Dana Point VFW Post 9934; Mayor Carlos N. Olvera and Terry Rifkin, president of the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, who along with Sharon Miller and Renee Fulk of the VFW Post 9934 Auxiliary, unveiled the memorial tablets with this year’s added names.

William Manes of VFW Post 9934 raised the colors to full staff and the VFW Post 9934 rifle team performed the gun salute and “Taps.”

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks by Fowler, a benediction by Chaplain Drayton, the retiring of the colors by the Marine Color Guard and the singing of “God Bless the USA” by Banks.

For a photo slideshow and video of the ceremony, visit www.danapointtimes.com.

DP

A crowd of about 200 gathered around the Veterans Memorial at Strand Vista Park on Nov. 11 for the city’s Veteran’s Day service. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Command Sergeant Major Michael J. Pritchard, USMC, Marine Aircraft Group 39, Camp Pendleton (left) delivers the keynote speech while Brad Fowler stands by. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Page 23

The Marine Aircraft Group 39 Headquarters Company Color Guard from Camp Pendleton advanced, posted and retired the colors at the event. Photo: Andrea Swayne

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Cross Country Teams Poised for CIF-SS Championships If putting up a strong showing at the CIF-SS Cross Country Championship Prelims is any indication of championship intentions, the Dana Hills boys and girls cross country teams made a strong case for themselves last weekend.

Both the Dolphins teams won their respective heats at the CIF-SS Prelims, emphatically punching their tickets into the CIF-SS Championships at Mt. SAC on Nov. 21.

At the CIF-SS Prelims, which took place at Mt. SAC on Nov. 14, the boys team had three runners place inside the top-15. Senior Jake Ogden took third with a time of

14:56, senior Mason Coppi (14:58) placed fi fth and sophomore Jack Landgraf (15:04) took 12th. Brandon Hough placed 24th and Thomas Wilfert placed 31st to round out the scoring group.

The boys team outscored second-place Burroughs 75-96 in the Division 1 second heat.

The girls, who raced in the Division 1 second heat, had all five runners place inside the top-26 to seal their first-place standing. Sienna Serrao placed 12th with a time of 17:45, Kathryn Kaloroumakis (17:48) placed 13th, Jennifer Daly (18:07) took 21st, Camille Perkins (18:10) placed 25th and Sarah Meng (18:10) placed 26th.

The girls team outpaced second-place Warren 97-119. The Dolphins heat included South Coast league rival Trabuco Hills, which placed fi fth.

Dolphins Water Polo Heads to CIF-SS Championship Match As they made their respective runs through the 2015 season, it became clear that the Foothill and Dana Hills boys water polo teams would eventually square off against each other in the biggest game of the year.

Foothill has been in the top spot of the

CIF-SS Division 2 rankings seemingly all season. The Dolphins have been entrenched in the No. 2 spot for just as long.

After three rounds of playoff competition, the script has gone according to plan.

Dana Hills and Foothill will play for the CIF-SS Division 2 Championship at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center in Irvine on Nov. 21 at 2:30 p.m.

It will be the first time in program history the Dolphins compete for a CIF-SS Championship. Dana Hills reached the semifinals of the postseason tournament in 1991 and 2014.

The Dolphins (26-5) paved their way to the championship match by defeating Redondo Union, Los Osos and Mira Costa in the first, quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, respectively. Foothill (27-2) defeated Ventura, El Toro and Damien en route to the finals.

Dana Hills and Foothill played each other back on Sept. 25 during the nonleague schedule. Foothill was led by Chas Hornecker’s six goals in a 15-10 victory.

Aside from their 18-4 blowout victory over Redondo Union in the first round, the Dolphins played two closely-contested matches in the buildup to the finals. Dana Hills narrowly edged Los Osos 10-9 in the quarterfinals and pulled away in the fourth

quarter against Mira Costa for an 11-8 win.

Senior Bennett Williams has led the Dolphins in scoring in all three playoff games. Williams has notched four goals in every contest.

Soewondo Advances to CIF Regional Golf Tournament Dana Hills junior golfer Joan Soewondo advanced to the penultimate postseason tournament of the season, the CIF-WSCGA Golf Championship, on Nov. 12, and finished amongst a pack of golfers that carded 74 (+3) at Goose Creek Golf Club.

Soewondo was one of seven players who carded a 74, 10 strokes off the first-place finisher Andrea Lee of Mira Costa. It was Soewondo’s second straight appearance in the regional tournament.

Soewondo, who was playing as an individual at regionals, had a standout showing at the CIF-SS Individual Championships on Nov. 9. Soewondo recorded a quadruple bogey early in her round at Western Hills Country Club, but rallied late to post a score of 73 (+3) and salvage her round. Soewondo placed eighth in the tournament, which earned her a bid into the regional tournament. DP

Dana Wharf Fish Count DANA POINT TIMES

T

he shift in weather conditions has made for an interesting month of fishing off the coast of Dana Point.

In his weekly fish report, Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching captain Brian Woolley outlined that the prevailing winds and drop in water temperature have led to unusual catches. On Saturday,

Dana Wharf captain Dustin Mayo, left, displays the yellowtail caught by angler Colton Overin aboard the Dana Pride on Nov. 15. Photo: Courtesy Dana Wharf

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Nov. 14, an angler reeled in a small snowy grouper, which Woolley said is an unusual catch in these waters.

The colder water temperatures have also brought yellowtail closer to shore, according to Woolley.

Woolley and his crews have been focusing on finding yellowtail and rockfish during the 3/4-day fishing trips, as well as mixing in some spots known for yielding calico bass.

The Dana Wharf’s annual halibut derby is in full swing and the first drift trip of the season was held on Nov. 13. Anglers aboard the Sum Fun were able to reel in nine halibut, ranging in size from five to 24 pounds.

Jerry Boston currently holds the lead in the halibut derby standings with his 23.5-pound catch.

Here is the latest fish count out of Dana Wharf.

11/18 • 2 boats; 37 anglers: 60 rockfish, 31 vermillion rockfish, 15 boccacio, 14 yellowtail, 5 sand bass, 4 sheephead, 2 bonito.

11/17 • 2 boats; 37 anglers: 43 rockfish, 12 boccacio, 12 vermillion rockfish, 9 sheephead, 8 calico bass, 5 sargo, 1 yellowtail, 1 bonito.

11/16 • No boats due to weather conditions.

11/15 • 2 boats; 29 anglers: 28 lobster, 2

Anglers aboard the Sum Fun display their halibuts. Photo: Courtesy Dana Wharf

halibut, 1 sand bass.

11/14 • 6 boats; 195 anglers: 122 rockfish, 70 lobster, 46 vermillion rockfish, 26 boccacio, 26 calico bass, 6 sand bass, 6 sheephead, 3 yellowtail, 3 bonito, 1 lingcod.

11/13 • 3 boats; 49 anglers: 42 vermillion rockfish, 32 calico bass, 28 rockfish, 27 sand bass, 18 boccacio, 10 sheephead, 5 blue perch.

Page 25

11/12 • 3 boats; 122 anglers: 75 rockfish, 36 vermillion rockfish, 11 sand bass, 8 calico bass, 6 sheephead, 2 white fish, 1 yellowtail.

11/11 • 3 boats; 122 anglers: 85 rockfish, 39 vermillion rockfish, 27 boccacio, 12 sheephead, 4 calico bass, 3 sand bass, 3 white fish, 2 bonito, 1 yellowtail.

11/10 • No boats due to weather conditions. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Pismo Delivers Waves, Weather

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 60-63 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’+ Fair Outlook: Looking fairly slow through the weekend as minor blend of SSW swell and NW swell-mix continues. Size for most areas continues to top out around waist high, with larger sets for standout combo spots around the more favorable tides.

Check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

WSA at the Pismo Beach Pier gets hit with first winter weather of the season, locals excel

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

F

or the 370 Western Surfing Association Championship Tour competitors who made the trip to Pismo Beach last weekend—hoping for the best but expecting the worst in terms of weather—it was their first taste of winter surfing of the season.

Trophies went to 33 tri-city area surfers, with division wins by five: Ezra McPhillips (San Clemente) Girls U10; Ryann Daly (Dana Point) Girls U12; Kai McPhillips (SC) Boys U16; Kevin Skvarna, (San Juan Capistrano) Jr. Longboard U18 and Ocean Tsutsui (SC) Girls Longboard U18.

Day one, Saturday, Nov. 14, ended up being sunny and competitors in the longboard and 16+ shortboard divisions enjoyed consistent, although occasionally dumping, waves in the 4- to 5-foot range.

And although the sun was shining, many donned 4/3 wetties and booties, unaccustomed to 60-ish-degree ocean after the extended summer of water in the 74-degree-plus range.

By the end of the day, the weather forecast for Sunday wasn’t looking good, with predictions of heavy rain and winds

RESULTS First-place and local finishers only. KEY: San Clemente=SC, Dana Point=DP, Capistrano Beach=CB

Boys U10 finalists (L to R) 1. Hudson Saunders, Laguna Beach; 2. Makai Bray, San Clemente; 3. Jonas Meskis, Moorpark; 4. Maddox Bray, San Clemente; 5. Timothy Simmers, Oceanside and 6. Bryse Celaya of Huntington Beach braved big waves and stormy weather at the Pismo Pier on Nov. 15, event No. 4 of the WSA season.

Photo: WSA/Jack McDaniel

in the range of 25 mph expected to arrive by noon. The wave forecast in the area also showed nearby breaks being pounded with 15- to 20-foot and bigger waves.

Sunday morning started under ominously cloudy skies that by mid-morning had gone a thick, dark gray and then dumped a torrential squall. Contest officials battened down the hatches in the judging, tabulating and check-in tents and crew and competitors pressed on. The rest of the day brought intermittent showers and a few brief moments of sunshine.

Luckily, Pismo’s nearly south-facing direction provided an angle adequate to hold off the really big waves hitting just up the

GROM OF THE WEEK

MAKAYLA MOSS

M

akayla Moss, 11, of San Clemente is one of the most stoked young surfers in the area, with a love for the sport that propels her to continually strive to be the best she can be, in and out of the water.

As a sixth-grader and a member of the Shorecliffs Middle School surf team, Makayla works hard to maintain straight-As in school, not only because she has to in order to continue surfing, but because she has also set a goal of being accepted into a good college and really enjoys learning.

In addition to her school surf team competition, Makayla surfs in the Western Surfing Association Championship Tour where she is ranked No. 8 in a field of 28 in the Girls U12 Shortboard division. In overhead waves, wind and rain, she brought home a sixth-place trophy from last weekend’s WSA event in Pismo Beach. And in October, she

Dana Point Times November 20–26, 2015

Makayla Moss. Photo: Andrea Swayne

finished third in Girls 12U Shortboard in the Stoke-o-Rama at T Street.

Makayla has been surfing since she was 6, first learning under the tutelage of her father, and now enjoying the practice she

coast, instead attracting waves in the 5- to 6-foot range with occasional sets 7 to 8 feet in size.

As if on cue, shortly before 3 p.m. following the trophy presentations and the final sign-off, the wind made its presence known, swooping in with gusts to 35 miles per hour, maybe more.

“What is this El Niño?” yelled a tiny unidentifiable grom in a wetsuit, Ugg boots and parka hood string pulled so tightly around his face he could scarcely see, as he made his way off of the pier clutching his 4-foot-something potato chip board to keep it from flying away. “Welcome to winter, yew!” DP

gets from surfing contests.

Her training now includes working with her coach Brandon Phillips, practicing five days a week along with regular fitness training at Foundation Fitness and skateboarding. She thanks her parents, coach, trainers, Cordell Surfboards and her friends for their support as she works to hone her skills.

“Right now I’m focusing on really getting on my stomp pad and throwing spray,” she said. “I also love surfing with my friends Reese and Rachel Hartnett and Riley Nattrass. We all get coached together and run practice heats. It’s great because we battle each other for waves and push each other to get better.”

Makayla is a charger, preferring larger waves and giving herself an extra push during big swells.

“I really like big waves because when you drop in, the wind just gets you and you’re zooming down the line,” she said. “And then you notice that your turns are a lot better because the wave is bigger and you have a lot of speed. It’s so fun.”—Andrea Swayne

Page 26

WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 4, November 14-15, Pismo Beach, Pier MICRO GROM BOYS U9: 1. Chase Niemann, Carlsbad; 6. Loyal Cash Kenworthy, DP. MICRO GROM GIRLS U10: 1. Ezra McPhillips, SC; 2. Bella Kenworthy, DP; 3.

Addie McPhillips, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Hudson Saunders, Laguna Beach; 2. Makai Bray, SC; 4. Maddox Bray, SC. BOYS U12: 1. Lucas Owston, Oceanside; 4.

Brayden Burch, SC; 5. Dax McPhillips, SC. BOYS U14: 1.

Arashi Murata, Japan; 2. Kai McPhillips, SC; 5. London Almida, SC/Hawaii. BOYS U16: 1. Kai McPhillips, SC; 2.

Noah Hohenester, SC; 4. Ethan Mudge, CB; 6. London Almida, SC/Hawaii. BOYS U18: 1. Arashi Murata, Japan; 4. David Economos, SC; 5. London Almida, SC/Hawaii.

GIRLS U12: 1. Ryann Daly, DP; 4. Sawyer Lindblad, SC; 5.

Reese Hartnett, SC; 6. Makayla Moss, SC. GIRLS U14: 1. Olivia Pessanha, San Diego; 2. Izzy Hopkins, DP; 5.

Malia Mauch, SC; 6. Makayla Moss, SC. GIRLS U16: 1.

Kiersten Noonan, Encinitas; 6. Malia Mauch, SC. GIRLS U18: 1. Brooke Young, San Diego. BOYS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Jonah Shannon, Monterey; 2. Jimmy Wynne, SC. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 1. Kevin Skvarna, San Juan Capistrano; 4. Ethan Mudge, CB; 5. Cole Thompson, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 1. Brooke Carlson, Calabasas. GIRLS LONGBOARD U18: 1. Ocean Tsutsui, SC. MEN 18-29: 1.

Cameron Griggs, Mission Viejo. MASTERS 30-39: 1. Jonathan Warren, Long Beach; 5. Ryan Aguilar, SC. SENIOR MEN 40-49: 1. Gavin Haughey, Laguna Niguel. WOMEN 18+: 1. Rachel Breitner, Virginia. LEGENDS 50+: 1. Chas Wickwire, Seal Beach. OPEN MEN: 1. Drew Stanfield, Westminster. OPEN WOMEN: 1. Maile Davis, Carlsbad; 5. Jayme Linnes, SC. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 1. Trevor Anderberg, Encinitas; 2. Kevin Skvarna, San Juan Capistrano. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD: 1. Keili McEvilly, Carlsbad; 6. Lexi Morgan, SC. SR. MEN LONGBOARD 40+: 1. Jorge Barba, Oceanside. ADAPTIVE SURFERS: 1.

Rodney Roller, Oceano.

NSSA Open, Event No. 5, November 7-8, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach MEN: 1. Jake Marshall, Encinitas 15.20; 2. Kei Kobayashi, SC 14.13; 3. Kade Matson, SC 14.07. JUNIORS: 1. Arashi Murata, Japan 16.40; 3. Kade Matson, SC 12.94. BOYS: 1. Jett Schilling, SC 14.50; 2. Taj Lindblad, SC 12.70. MINI GROMS: 1. Hayden Rodgers, Laguna Beach 14.00; 2.

Dane Matson, SC 11.20. WOMEN: 1. Bethany Zelasko, DP 14.80; 3. Malia Osterkamp, SC 12.00; 4. Kirra Pinkerton, SC 10.96. GIRLS: 1. Kirra Pinkerton, SC 13.67; 4. Samantha Sibley, SC 8.33.

UPCOMING EVENTS November 21: Soul Surf Series, Event No. 3, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street November 21-22: NSSA Open, Event No. 6, Newport Beach, 54th Street November 22: Scholastic Surf Series, OC High School, Event No. 1, Huntington Beach, 9th Street December 5-6: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 5, San Clemente, Pier

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