April 14, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

April 14-20, 2017

YO U

C A N

U S E

Inside: Celebrate Earth Day with Our Annual Green Issue SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 10, ISSUE 15

An Unfolding Story The yogi behind Yoga in the Park, iHeartYoga shares her unique experiences D P L I V I N G / PAG E 1 2

Elsa Stephen poses in her iHeartYoga studio in the Dana Point Harbor. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

Family of Man Killed in 2016 Crash Files Charges, Names Defendant EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Sabroso Festival Fills Doheny with Music, Tacos EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

Dana Outrigger Team Headed to World Master Games SPORTS/PAGE 16

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING During the most recent meeting, Killebrew told the committee he needed help with this project.

WHAT’S NEXT: Buck Hill, another committee member, asked how much this could cost but Killebrew said he wasn’t able to provide that information to the committee members at the time. He stated he was still waiting for those numbers.

The Committee also approved to have the Council act immediately on adopting a general policy to attempt to recoup the costs of user fees and permits. —KP

Planning Commission Upholds Director’s Decision Regarding Prohibited Uses

El Cucuy, of heavy metal mariachi band Metalachi, interacts with the crowd during the Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco and Music Festival on April 8 at Doheny State Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week

Sabroso Festival Fills Doheny with Music, Tacos THE LATEST: After three years elsewhere, the Sabroso Craft Beer, Taco and Music Festival descended on Doheny State Beach for the first time last weekend.

Bands like Sum 41, the Offspring, Lit, Unwritten Law and the heavy-metal mariachi band Metalachi took the stage while craft breweries offered tastings. Guests were able to try gourmet street tacos and watch lucha libre style wrestlers.

Professional eater Takeru Kobayashi took home the top prize at the seventh annual Gringo Bandito Chronic Tacos Challenge, with runner-up Molly Schuyller behind him. Kobayashi ate 159 tacos in 10 minutes, beating his 2015 record of 144.

Mess Hall Canteen was named Best of Show by a panel of judges for their tacos, and Falasophy was named first runner-up, with The Kroft as second runner-up.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, a non-profit dedicated to protecting the park’s beaches, facilities, marine refuge and more.

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

WHAT’S NEXT: For all the photos from the event, visit www.danapointtimes.com.

—Kristina Pritchett

Finance Review Committee Approves to Begin Long-Term Financial Plan THE LATEST: The Financial Review Committee voted to direct staff to include on next year’s budget the initial work for a long-term financial plan.

During the FRC’s meeting on Monday, April 10, committee members not only approved the investment policy, but voted unanimously in favor of directing city staff to add a line budget item that would begin the work for a long-term financial plan.

It would include an overview of the financial forecast for the next five years as well as financial policies and principles.

Larry Rolapp, a committee member, said he had met with Acting City Manager Mike Killebrew to discuss the long-term plan. He said other cities have had their plan created before the budget workshop, but since the city’s budget will be made available to staff in draft form in three weeks, it would not be feasible.

Killebrew talked about bringing in an outside source to meet with committee members and Council members and begin working on financial policies.

He said there has been a recommendation to begin work on four polices: the revenue and user fee policy, general fund reserves, capital assessment or management policy and an overall budget policy.

THE LATEST: Despite community support, the Planning Commission voted unanimously on April 10 in favor of upholding a recommendation prohibiting RV storage at a Capistrano Beach property.

A community development director determined recreational vehicle storage use is a prohibited use within the community commercial/vehicular district zone and major automotive repair use is a prohibited use within the transportation corridor district zone at the properties in question: 25802 and 25831 Victoria Boulevard.

During public comment, customers who store their RVs at the property said it would be “inconvenient” if they had to find a new location for their RVs. Vice Chairman Scott McKann said he wished the issue never came up because it was a difficult decision, but the Commission had to follow the rules of the zoning codes.

Director of Community Development Ursula Luna-Reynosa said if the city allowed for the use in one area of the city, that zone would have to be changed throughout the city.

WHAT’S NEXT: The property owners have the option of appealing the commission’s decision to City Council, but must do so

by April 25.

Luna-Reynosa said the next steps would be up to the property owners. She said they would need to decide how they will move forward and bring their property into compliance. —KP

Family of Man Killed in April 2016 Files Charges for Wrongful Death, Names Defendant THE LATEST: Family members of a Dana Point man that was killed last year have

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filed charges against a Laguna Beach developer for wrongful death, according to a copy of the lawsuit obtained by Dana Point Times and confirmed by the family’s lawyer.

According to a complaint filed in Orange County Superior Court on Dec. 8, 2016, Renee Raith, Eric Raith, Stephanie Hudock, Greg Raith and Mededith Arakelyan allege Gallo Corporation and an unnamed driver of wrongful death.

The Raith’s attorney confirmed the driver was Keith Gallo of Gallo Corporation.

“Gallo Corporation has strong defenses and believes it will be exonerated,” said Edward Susolik, attorney for Gallo Corporation.

On April 9, 2016, Thomas Raith, 69 of Dana Point, was driving on Golden Lantern near Selva Road and was struck by another driver and died at the scene.

According to the complaint, Gallo Corporation owned, operated, controlled, repaired and entrusted the vehicle to a driver, Gallo, who was using the vehicle with the consent and permission of the Corporation.

“I think it’s a complete travesty my clients went a year without hearing anything,” said Gregory G. Rizio, attorney for the family.

The family is asking for economic losses including the loss of financial support Raith would have contributed to the family, the loss of gifts and benefits, funeral and burial expenses and the reasonable value of household services Raith would have provided. They are also requesting a jury trial.

“The family is extremely touched by the community’s outpour of love, and how much the community has rallied around them,” Rizio said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Rizio said a court date has not been set yet, but could be a year from when the complaint was filed. —KP

Coffee Chat to Discuss Dana Point Library THE LATEST: At the upcoming Dana Point Civic Association Coffee Chat, guests will get an update about the Dana Point Library.

Laura Blasingham, Dana Point Library senior branch manager, will discuss library events, programs, authors and the impact the library has on the community.

Coffee Chat will be held at Coffee Importers in the Dana Point Harbor from 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Complimentary coffee will be provided for all attendees courtesy of Jim Miller, DPCA President.

WHAT’S NEXT: Coffee Chat is held on the third Thursday of the month. —KP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

Ocean Institute Names New President, CEO Dan Pingaro was named the new president and CEO of the Ocean Institute, according to officials. Pingaro most recently served as the executive director of Laguna Beach Community Foundation for three years and has served as CEO and executive director of Sailors for the Sea, an ocean conservation nonprofit. He will assume the new role on April 24.

Doheny Wood Plans 20th Anniversary The 20th annual Doheny Wood, an all Woodie car show, will be at Doheny State Beach on Saturday, April 29 from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. More than 100 classic woodie cars will be on display next to the picnic area.

There will be food as well as a raffle. Entrance is free, but park admission is $15; $14 for seniors.

For more information, contact the Southern California Woodies by calling 310.748.9207 or 949.388.3278, or visit www. socalwoodies.com.

Upcoming Dinner to Benefit Local Military Families A benefit dinner and show will help raise funds to support local military families on Saturday, April 22.

A pasta dinner and a show, presented

by Tony Rogers, will benefit local families.

The event will be at Palisades United Methodist Church at 6 p.m.

The event is $20 per person and $10 for military personnel. Children are free, and child care will be provided. If guests bring a pack of printer paper, they will be entered into a drawing.

RSVP to Palisades UMC at 949.496.5502.

The Church is located at 27002 Camino de Estrella, Capistrano Beach.

Earth Day Cleanups Scheduled for April 22 The California State Parks Foundation will host an Earth Day restoration and cleanup day on April 22. Two beaches in the area were selected for the effort.

Doheny State Beach will need volunteers to remove diseased or dead nonnative shrubs and trees from the campground and replace them with a variety of shrubs and trees native to Southern California. The foundation said 200 volunteers are needed. Contact Vicki Wiker at 949.310.2546 or vwiker@parks.ca.gov.

San Clemente State Beach will need volunteers to clean up and restore the nature trail, conduct native plant restoration at the historic cottage and install an interpretive display, and general cleanup of day use area and picnic bowl. The foundation said 75 volunteers will be needed.

Contact Cryssie Moreno at 949.366.8594 or cryssie.moreno@parks.ca.gov.

Car Show Scheduled for Lantern District The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce will hold its Dana Point Lantern District Car and Motorcycle Show on Sunday, April 23.

The biannual event will feature more than 200 cars and 1,000 participants along Del Prado.

The event is from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. between Violet Lantern and the Lantern District Arch/Pacific Coast Highway.

For more information, contact the Chamber at 949.496.1555 or email operations@danapointchamber.com.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

Doheny State Beach has been selected as one of two local beaches for an Earth Day Cleanup, hosted by the California State Parks Foundation. Photo: Matt Cortina

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

Dana Point Parasail operates out of the Dana Point Harbor and is a new business in the city.

Photo: Courtesy of Carla Mitroff

Business Beat News from Dana Point’s business community COMPILED BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

NEW BUSINESSES DANA POINT PARASAIL 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern.

949.877.9822. www.danapointparasail.com.

Soar above the water with Dana Point’s new business, Dana Point Parasail.

The company takes guests 800 feet in the air by riding under a parachute that’s towed by a speedboat around Doheny State Beach.

“We picked Dana Point because the Harbor has the walkability and the tourism,” said Allison Rinehart, co-owner. “It was the right fit at the right time.”

Allison and her husband partnered with their captain, Chris Turgeon, to take guests on an excursion they’ll never forget.

“It’s surprisingly serene and beautiful,” Rinehart said.

She said the activity can be for anyone, whether it’s for families, a group, couples or solo rides.

“We can fly tandem, so two people at a time, and we can take kids five (years old) and up,” Rinehart said.

The business operates near Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

RAY’S BARBER PLACE 32932 Pacific Coast Highway #20 949.388.5320. www.raysbarberplace.com Ray’s Barber Place has expanded into Dana Point after operating in San Clemente for 14 years.

Owner, Rachael (or Ray) Place said

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Ray’s Barber Place celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, April 10.

Photo: Courtesy of the Dana Point Chamber

she’s lived in Dana Point and was ready to expand.

“I was given an insight that a barbershop here closed and thought it would be really awesome to expand into Dana Point,” Place said. “I thought, ‘What a great opportunity to be a part of the community.’”

Place, who, given the name of the shop, jokes that many people are surprised to find out she’s a woman, has been in the barber business for 14 years and said the new location has been working out.

“We focus on quality and service,” Place said. “Every client gets a shampoo, a hot steamed towel and a neck shave.”

Place said that customers are only strangers once, and she loves what she does every day.

“I knew from when I was a little girl I wanted to do hair,” Place said. “I love it; there isn’t a day in the last 14 years I haven’t enjoyed. I get to hang out, sit and talk with customers and hear the stories from people around here.”

The business celebrated their opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, April 10 with the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. The shop is located in the Monarch Bay Plaza. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Community DP Sheriff’s Blotter Meetings

Police were called about a stroller that was left near the entrance to the resort earlier in the day. The caller said it was still there and was unsure if there was a baby inside.

Sunday, April 9

COMPILED BY STAFF

SATURDAY, APRIL 15

Dana Point Farmers Market

9 a.m. There will be fresh produce and treats for sale at the Farmers Market. Every first Saturday of the month there are craft vendors. La Plaza Park. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point.

949.279.3122.

TUESDAY, APRIL 18

Dana Hills High School PTSA Meeting 9:30 a.m. The upcoming school year’s PTSA officers will be elected. Dana Hills High School Staff Lounge. 33333 Street of the Golden Lantern.

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. Members of the City Council will meet in Council Chambers. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern. The agenda can be viewed at www.danapoint.org.

Because I Love You (BILY) Meeting

7-9 p.m. every Tuesday. BILY helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. 119 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente. www.bilysc.org

Dana Harbor Toastmasters

7-8:30 p.m. Fine-tune your public speaking skills each Tuesday at Capo Beach Church. 25975 Domingo Avenue, Capistrano Beach. 949.492.7181. www.toastmasters.org WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19

Traffic Improvement Subcommittee Meeting

3 p.m. Members of the subcommittee will meet in Council Chambers. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern.

THURSDAY, APRIL 20

Third Thursday Mixer

5:30-7:30 p.m. Meet with the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce and other businesses to network. Tickets are $12 for members and $20 for prospective members. Those who preregister will receive a VIP Lounge Pass for the Outlets at San Clemente. Dana Point Women’s Club House. 24642 San Juan Avenue. www.danapointchamber.com.

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

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, April 11

DISTURBANCE Mariner Drive, 23700 Block (11 p.m.) A caller said they could hear a man and a woman arguing and kids screaming.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Del Prado, 24500 Block (7:41 p.m.) Police were told people broke the lock to a utility room and set up camp inside.

CITIZEN ASSIST Granada Drive, 34000 Block (7:02 p.m.) A man told police a guy with whom he co-owns a vehicle was reportedly threatening to steal parts off of it.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Pacific Coast Highway/ Granada Drive (8:50 p.m.) A vehicle and motorcyclist were involved in an accident.

DISTURBANCE Silverstrand/Seabrook Drive (6:14 p.m.) Police were called for skateboarders and adults videotaping them.

DISTURBANCE-AUTO INVOLVED Ocean Hill Drive, 33300 Block (5:58 p.m.) Police were called for people building a dirt bike track between the apartment complex and the Thunderbird community.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY West Entrance Jetty (4:25 p.m.) The lifeguards were called in to close the jetty due to high surf.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Stonehill Drive/Del Obispo Street (10:55 a.m.) A woman said a man and woman were sitting in a vehicle and appeared to be hiding something in their laps. The caller said she couldn’t see into the car.

INFORMATION REPORT Mariner Drive, 23700 Block (6:38 p.m.) A woman told police she found a GPS tracking device under her vehicle and suspected it was her ex-husband.

The woman said she wanted a stalking report to give to her lawyer.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-UNKNOWN INJURIES Del Obispo Street/Stonehill Drive (6:24 p.m.) A bicyclist reportedly fell off his bike and was in the street.

DISTURBANCE Del Prado, 24800 Block (1:55 p.m.) Police were called for a man reportedly making rude hand gestures toward the customers.

HIT-AND-RUN MISDEMEANOR Street of the Blue Lantern, 34200 Block (10:19 a.m.) A caller said they had a video of a vehicle hitting a telephone pole, and the conduit was damaged.

Monday, April 10 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Dana Bluff West/Via Verde (10:07 p.m.) A caller said they saw four people in the park jump the wall that leads to the bluff.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (9:32 a.m.) Police were called for a man who defecated in front of the business.

DISTURBANCE La Cresta Drive, 24200 Block (6:59 p.m.) Police were called for skateboarders on school property.

GENERAL BROADCAST Camino Capistrano/Pacific Coast Highway (3:58 p.m.) Police were called for a driver who reportedly made a motion with his fingers like he was shooting at the caller and started to flip them off.

PETTY THEFT Street of the Golden Lantern, 33200 Block (2:29 p.m.) The caller said their phone was taken.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Ultima, 26700 Block (8:23 a.m.) A man was seen walking around carrying a woman’s bag. The caller said the man asked him if he knew the woman who lived across the street because he was supposed to meet with her and he had her bag.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Street of the Park Lantern, 25100 Block (1:38 a.m.)

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Capistrano, 35200 Block (9:06 a.m.) A caller told police the restrooms were trashed and the front gate was open.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34600 Block (3:52 a.m.) A man was seen reportedly going between the vehicles in the parking garage with a bag.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive, 24800 Block (12:25 a.m.) A woman told police someone hit her boyfriend.

Saturday, April 8 PETTY THEFT Dana Point Harbor Drive, 24200 Block (11:04 p.m.) A caller told police people reportedly jumped the fence and stole some wine.

PETTY THEFT La Plaza, 34100 Block (9:51 p.m.) A woman said she asked another

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woman to watch her purse while she used the restroom, and she said when she came out, the woman and her bag were gone.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Bridgehampton Drive, 33700 Block (9:41 p.m.) A caller told police a man was running up and down the street, and the caller thought he was “sketchy.”

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Beach Road, 35200 Block (9:12 p.m.) Orange County Fire Authority was called after a person reportedly fell off a second-story balcony.

TRESPASSING Ocean Front Lane, 0 Block (4:17 p.m.) Three women were reportedly detained; the caller said they didn’t live at the location.

TRESPASSING Via Santa Rosa, 34200 Block (3:46 p.m.) A woman said she caught two men on her roof.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street/Stonehill Drive (10:54 a.m.) A man was seen reportedly asking for money in the intersection and jumping in front of vehicles.

BURGLARY Via Martos, 33600 Block (9:39 a.m.) Two women’s purses were reportedly stolen from an unlocked vehicle.

DISTURBANCE Via Bella, 27200 Block (12:42 a.m.) A man told police his cousin threw a rock and broke a window. He stated he was upset and hit his cousin multiple times with his fists. The cousin said he was never hit.

Friday, April 7 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Camino Capistrano, 35000 Block (11:19 p.m.) A driver crashed into mailboxes and power line equipment.

The driver was suspended, and their vehicle was impounded.

DISTURBANCE Dana Strand Road, 34300 Block (9:26 p.m.) Police were called for juveniles drinking and reportedly throwing things at the lights.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Street of the Golden Lantern, 32500 Block (6:19 p.m.) Police were called for a woman who appeared unconscious inside of a vehicle while a man shook her and screamed.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUSMTANCE Pas Corona, 24000 Block (4:56 p.m.) A man told police his front door was cracked and thought it could have to do with purchasing a “stolen iPhone off the internet.”

DISTURBANCE Camino El Molino/Via California (8:31 a.m.) A man on a bike was seen going through trash cans on the street.

PETTY THEFT Del Obispo Street, 33500 Block (4:07 a.m.) Police were called for two 18- to 19-year-olds who reportedly took a 30-pack of beer and left in a vehicle. www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor POOR FISCAL MANAGEMENT JAY SOWELL, Dana Point

A number of concerns are coming to light about our city’s financial situation.

Mayor Lewis revealed last week that while city revenues have risen only 4 percent over the last 10 years, our operating expenses have risen 40 percent, and total government funds have declined substantially.

There are numerous specific examples of poor fiscal management: Ten years ago our city employed 48 people to support 36,000 residents. We now employ 70 people to serve 34,000 residents.

Dana Point pays the Sheriff’s department $319 per resident for police services.

That is the highest rate paid by a contract city in Orange County, and compares to $203 in San Clemente and $166 in Laguna Niguel.

“No more giveaways to We need change.

developers. No more

financial irresponsibility.

”

—Jay Sowell The current staff, and our legacy Councilmen Viczorek, Muller and Tomlinson, did nothing to stop the city from wasting over $1 million on the Strands gate legal fiasco, financing an endless legal battle that only benefited an out-of-town developer and our city attorney’s private law firm.

These Councilmen tried to give away hundreds of thousands of dollars of parking spaces to Town Center developers, even putting up the smoke screen of Measure I to try to confuse voters and thwart the will of the citizens.

And now we've learned that these Councilmen and our city staff have allowed runaway expenses that, if unchecked, will soon put the city in a precarious financial position.

We are not getting our money's worth, and our city budget is headed towards a crisis. This is no way to run a city, and it reflects very poorly on our city staff and legacy Councilmen.

We need change. No more giveaways to developers. No more financial irresponsibility.

Dana Point is currently conducting a search for a new city manager. Let City Council know you want them to hire a manager from outside the city, someone Dana Point Times April 14–20, 2017

new who promises change, and is committed to making our city run cost-effectively and transparently. We need someone who was not part of creating our current problems, and who is committed to setting our financial house in order.

Our City Council members must put the needs of the citizens of Dana Point first. We elected Mayor Lewis and Council member Wyatt because they promised to be effective and transparent, and to represent residents first. It's time that council members Viczorek, Muller and Tomlinson got with the program.

Editor’s Note: The statistics cited in this letter have not been confirmed by the Dana Point Times.

CONTINUING THE BEACH EROSION CONVERSATION AMBROSE MASTO, M.D., President, Capistrano Beach

Three weeks ago I wrote a letter to the DP Times, which outlined my reasons for opposing the position of many environmental groups and the Coastal Commission concerning protection of our eroding Coastal shores. That article outlined the basic differences between the CCC which favors the concept of “managed retreat,” essentially a doctrine, which promotes the idea of doing little or nothing concerning the rising tides that are threatening homes and structures near the shore, and the Constitutional right that a homeowner has to protect one’s property from destruction and illegal seizure by the government. If you think that I overstated that position, I refer you to AB 1129. This bill will go to the Assembly Conference in the next two weeks. It's hard to believe that in America the government is attempting to promote this bill to take away a basic right to protect one’s property and unilaterally to impose illegal, burdensome and confiscatory fines if one defends that right to do so.

Beautiful Dana Point, where we all live, has a tremendous amount of coastal property. Not only do the property taxes of these coastal residents as well as your property taxes help to finance the multiple and expensive city development measures, but summer beach rentals supply needed tax revenue and much influx of tourism which is necessary for this city's fiscal survival. Over the years, we have all noted a diminution of our private rights that are constitutionally guaranteed. Often, some people are demonized as though they are the enemy of the public good. This is extremely evident in AB 1129. Coastal owners pay for their storm protection so that everybody can continue to enjoy our beautiful coast. We all will lose if this bill is enacted, especially Dana Point.

Rhetoric that seeks to destroy a private individual's inalienable right to protect his property is unjust and wrong.

SEEK ALTERNATE ROUTES FOR TOLL ROADS CYNDY STAUFFER, San Clemente, The Reserve board vice president

Our communities need some muscle to grow our small voices. My neighbors are feeling the panic of what the future holds with these proposed toll road pathways.

I am one of thousands of people who are extremely concerned with the Transportation Corridor Agencies’ intent to run a freeway through and over the top of our residential areas of mid San Clemente to Pico or through San Juan Capistrano.

We have very little open space here in the middle and north of San Clemente where this path is proposed. Our close neighboring communities were designed carefully to preserve this open space as such, and we are all concerned with the fragile habitats and our physical quality of life.

San Clemente has huge traffic problems.

Millions of dollars are being spent on the I-5 freeway widening project that’s currently under construction. Unfortunately, with the curves I-5 takes through our towns, it will most likely remain an area where the freeway slows and traffic will never be great.

Bringing in a toll road through San Clemente to Pico or north would dump traffic right in the middle of town. How does that help any traffic problems for anyone? It will literally destroy what San Clemente’s reputation is to California as small seaside town.

The connection of La Pata has helped us, but it also affected us greatly with increased traffic patterns and the dirt and dust in the air, and now they want to put a toll road through?

Our small coastal cities must work together and not become the expendable piece to the large corporation and its justput-it-through mentality. Please, don’t put our physical health along with the visual impact of putting a freeway directly in the middle of our small seaside town on the chopping block. We must find a way to stand together with a big voice.

It is my understanding that the Save Trestles lawsuits and its said impact are somewhat misleading statements to the true factual impact of a properly constructed roadway south around San Clemente, meeting up to I-5.

Please help us find a way to go around San Clemente, demand more studies and truthful information of safely putting the road closer to Camp Pendleton—something that would actually help the traffic problems.

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

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Kristina Pritchett, 949.388.7700, x113 kpritchett@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Group Managing Editor > Matt Cortina City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett 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 Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Jake Howard Debra Holm Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 15. 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 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

Monday | 17 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park.

25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

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

Friday | 14

FAMILY STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARY 5:30-6:30 p.m. The National Charity League Sunshine Readers invite families to wear their PJs and partake in storytime.

31495-A El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. www.facebook.com/SJCFriends.

LIVE MUSIC: HANS & JANINE 4 p.m. Join Waterman’s Harbor for live music with Hans & Janine every Friday.

Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

FREE MOVIE: ‘FISHPEOPLE’ 7 p.m. The outdoor and apparel company Patagonia’s latest film, Fishpeople, comes to Hobie Dana Point. The film highlights lives that have been transformed by the sea. The event is free. 34174 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.496.2366. www.patagonia.com/fishpeople.

LIVE THEATER: ‘ONCE UPON A MATTRESS’ 7:30 p.m. The Department of Theatre Arts at Saddleback College will stage Once Upon a Mattress, the popular musical based on The Princess and the Pea. Tickets are $10-$15. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4656. www.saddleback.edu/arts.

LIVE THEATER: ‘ON GOLDEN POND’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse stages On Golden Pond, the touching and funny story of a spirited and lovable elderly couple facing their twilight years. Tickets start at $20. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

LIVE MUSIC AT OVERVUE 8-11 p.m. A rotating lineup of musicians performs at OverVue Lounge at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott every Friday and Saturday night. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point. 949.661.5000. www.lagunacliffs.com.

LIVE MUSIC: YACHTLEY CREW 9 p.m. Yacht rockers Yachtley Crew return to Stillwater Spirit and Sounds.

24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

Saturday | 15 GIANT EASTER EGG DISPLAY All day. In celebration of spring, The RitzCarlton, Laguna Niguel introduces four, non-edible Easter eggs, each individually painted by local artists including Trevor Mezak, James Galindo, Robin Hiers and Kym de los Reyes. People are invited Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

Tuesday | 18

EDITOR’S PICK Photo: File

SATURDAY, APRIL 15: DANA POINT EGG HUNTS 9 a.m. Easter egg hunts will be held at Pines Park and Sea Canyon Park in Dana Point.

Besides the egg hunts, there will be puppet shows, children’s relay games, a petting zoo and Easter bunny visits. There is also a pancake breakfast from 8:30-11 a.m., and proceeds benefit local charities. The egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. Pines Park is located at 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point. Sea Canyon Park is located at 33093 Santiago Drive, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org. to take photos in front of the display.

One Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point.

949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.

Sunday | 16

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP 9:30-10:30 a.m. Join Ecotone Studios’ Josh Link for this workshop on building intermediate gardens at Tree of Life Nursery.

33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano.

949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

SPRING EGG-STRAVAGNZA 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Stop by Los Rios Park for a free spring festival. There will be an egg hunt, a marionette show, crafts and games, face painting, free hot dogs and popcorn, photos with the Easter bunny, and access to ZOOMARS petting zoo. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911.

OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer this spring for whale watching excursions. Tickets range from $25-$45. Visit the Institute’s website for more dates and times. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2 p.m.-1:30 a.m. A day of live music kicks off with Family Style at 2 p.m. followed

by Whiskey Ridge at 8:30 p.m. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

EASTER FAIR 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event at South Shores Church. The Easter Fair will include an egg hunt, carnival games, face painting, bounce houses, crafts, lunch, music and more. South Shores Church. 32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.4991. www.southshores.org.

LIVE MUSIC: BUNCH OF GUYS 7:30-11 p.m. Listen to music from Bunch of Guys at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE MUSIC: THE SHOWKILLERS 8-11 p.m. Listen to live music from The Showkillers at Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente.

949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

EASTER EGG HUNT 1 p.m. Hunt for Easter eggs on the grand lawn of the Monarch Beach Resort.

Event is open to members, hotel guests and those with brunch reservations.

One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point.

949.234.3900. www.monarchbeachresort. com.

Page 10

TINY TOTS: PARENT AND ME PROGRAM 9-10:15 a.m. Join the Ocean Institute for a six-week, maritime-themed series of exploration and play suitable for children ages 2 and 3. Stretch your child’s imagination through creative play that supports language development, social interaction and problem-solving. Cost is $30 for a single class. Program runs through May 9. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

HALF-PRICE 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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

COA IMPROV COMEDY NIGHT 6:30-7:30 p.m. The Community Outreach Alliance hosts a free weekly comedy show and workshop, where kids interested in comedy can listen to clean acts, while refining their own material. 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

LECTURE: WILDFLOWERS FROM A-Z 7-8:30 p.m. After winter rains, The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo teems with an endless array of wildflowers. Join botanist Tony Bomkamp for a presentation of interesting facts about some of the most picturesque wildflowers popping up along hillsides. Reserve your spot ahead of time.

28811 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

(Cont. on page 11) www.danapointtimes.com

A Green Future

Now is a more important time than ever to show your love of Mother Earth. As global temperatures and sea levels continue to rise and federal environmental regulations are imperiled, every action to benefit our habitat matters, whether you’re taking a small step like setting up a composting bin or a big step like powering your home with renewable energy.

In this year’s Green Issue, we’ve included stories about ways to green your life without making the kinds of major lifestyle changes that often derail such initiatives. You’ll learn about Orange County residents who have set up home bee colonies and about how others are using electric bicycles to easily reduce their carbon footprint on their commutes. There’s a breakdown of how going green actually saves you money and how you can have a more Earth-conscious dinner table. We also take a look at local nonprofits saving the planet and share updates on recent legislation that makes it easier to be an eco-advocate.

If this year’s super bloom of wildflowers throughout Orange County hasn’t made you wonder at the natural world, we hope the stories in this Green Issue inspire you to take every step you can to keep our tiny spot in the universe beautiful.

Super bloom at Dana Point Headlands. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

Ryan’s Recycling Goes Global

BY ALLISON JARRELL

Remember 6-year-old recycling entrepreneur Ryan Hickman from our Green Issue last April? With the help of his family, Ryan founded his own startup, Ryan’s Recycling Company, at the ripe age of 3 in San Juan Capistrano.

When we interviewed Ryan for last year’s cover story, he had earned more than $8,000 from recycling bottles and hoped to eventually buy his own garbage truck. He told us about how he recycles to help protect marine life from pollution and donates proceeds from his T-shirt sales to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach.

Since then, Ryan’s story has gone viral, reaching millions of people in more than 40 countries via major news outlets like CNN, ABC World News, CNBC, PBS and USA Today and through social media videos from Upworthy, Now This, David Wolfe and 60 Second Docs—the latter of which has more than 40 million views.

Public figures and celebrities such as Chelsea Clinton, George Takei and Derek Carr of the Oakland Raiders praised Ryan on social media for his efforts. Locally,

Ryan has been recognized for his recycling by the San Juan Capistrano City Council and the Laguna Beach Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Most recently, Ryan was invited to speak as a junior entrepreneur at a TEDx conference in Vienna, Austria, this October.

Today, the 7-year-old has earned over $23,000 from recycling more than 200,000 bottles, and thanks to a surprise $10,000 check he received from Shutterfly during a Jan. 30 interview on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Ellen also awarded Ryan with a personalized, battery-powered, kid-sized recycling truck, which he often takes on his neighborhood runs or to grab the mail. (And yes, he knows how to parallel park, too.)

When he’s not picking up bottles and cans in his truck, Ryan enjoys reading the emails he receives from people around the world who say they’re inspired by his recycling startup. His other favorite part of the business? Visiting the sea lions at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.

“I like giving them food and medicine,” Ryan said. “They get to go back to the beach.”

For information on Ryan’s Recycling Company, visit www.ryansrecycling.com.

Cali-Green: Climate Crusaders Lawmakers move to further reduce California’s carbon footprint

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS-CAMACHO

Can California go 100 percent renewable by 2045? At least one state lawmaker thinks so.

Senate leader Kevin de Leon recently introduced legislation that would give California a 28-year deadline to generate all of its electricity from clean sources such as solar and wind. The measure, Senate Bill (SB) 584, would also fast track the state’s 50 percent renewable energy goal—bumping it up five years from 2030 to 2025.

It’s the latest push in the nation’s most populous state to further California’s standing as a global leader in combating climate change. Last year, state lawmakers continued to embrace green initiatives and doubled down on efforts to dramatically reduce the state’s carbon imprint.

Here’s a look at a few green laws California adopted in 2016:

Greenhouse Gas Reduction

With California on track to meet or exceed its current target for greenhouse gas emission reduction—down to 1990 levels by 2020—state lawmakers adopted sweeping measures last summer to make even deeper emission cuts. The legislation, SB 32 and Assembly Bill (AB) 197, set an ambitious new target of dropping greenhouse gas emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. “Climate change is real, and knowing that, California is taking action,” Governor Jerry Brown said in a press release. “SB 32 and AB 197 are far-reaching moves that continue California on its path of vast innovation and environmental resilience.”

Lead-Acid Battery Recycling

Starting April 1, consumers and manufacturers will pay a $1 fee for car batteries sold in the state. The projected $30 million in annual revenue stemming from AB 2153, the Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Act of 2016, will fund the cleanup of more than a dozen sites statewide contaminated by lead-acid batteries—including the former Exide battery plant in Los Angeles County. Decontamination estimates for the site are at $50 million with the surrounding area costing upward of $500 million, according to Assembly member Cristina Garcia, who sponsored the bill to relieve communities long impacted by such waste.

Cutback on Super Pollutants

California accelerated its fight against climate change and moved to aid its highly-polluted communities by adopting the nation’s toughest restrictions on super pollutants last summer. SB 1383 aims to reduce black carbon and methane emissions from petroleum-based fuels, organic agricultural waste and synthetic gases used in refrigeration, air conditioning and aerosol products. “Reducing short-lived pollutants is the right thing to do for public health and for environmental justice,” Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon said in a press release.

“By taking on harmful super pollutants … SB 1383 is another critical tool in our efforts to prevent and mitigate the dangerous effects of climate change.”

Lawmakers also passed legislation to make large-scale investments in communities disproportionately impacted by climate change and air pollution (AB 2722), to protect natural working lands that store significant amounts of carbon (SB 1386) and require municipalities to include an Environmental Justice element in their general plans. Laws requiring the disclosure of ingredients in cleaning products and informing consumers of plants and seeds treated with pesticides known to harm bees were voted down.

Green and Clean Finding eco-friendly ways to grow your garden

BY DEBRA HOLM

Are you interested in a more environmentally responsible approach to your landscape? If so, the pathway to achieve sustainability on your lawn and in your gardens is as simple as 1-2-3:

1. Organic Pesticides While chemical insecticides, herbicides and pesticides may kill weeds and eradicate bugs, many are concerned with the health impact they have on other living creatures, including humans. But an inexpensive alternative—organic pesticides— is readily available at local nurseries and is relatively simply to make at home.

Neem oil is considered to be one of the most effective organic pesticides, containing over 50 natural insecticides. The oil may be mixed with organic soap and sprayed on affected plant areas. Be sure to follow package directions, avoiding eye and skin contact, which may cause irritation.

To keep slugs from dining al fresco in your garden, mix one ounce of citrus oil, three tablespoons of organic castile soap and one gallon of warm water for a spray that keeps your herbs and veggies free of these slimy pests. This mixture also repels ants and roaches. Simply sprinkling a few drops of eucalyptus oil in areas where flies and wasps are buzzing will create a natural deterrent without harsh chemical odors.

2. Organic Composting Your kitchen trash may hold the secret to successful gardening, as composting is a natural method of returning food scraps to the circle of life. “Magic of Composting” seminars are held by the city of Dana Point throughout the year. These sessions include information on both composting and vermicomposting, a system that encourages earthworms to perform their alchemy. Vermicompost is a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer and soil conditioner that is water soluble. For more information, log on to www.danapoint.org/department.

Additionally, packaged worm “castings” (yes, worm poo) are easy to obtain. These particles are an optimum soil enricher that increases water retention as well as improving soil aeration and drainage.

3. Drought-Tolerant Plants Despite recent rainfalls, Southern Californians still must use a judicious approach to using water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, roughly 30 percent of American water usage occurs outdoors. This number increases in more arid climates. Although popular in Southern California, lawns are not particularly practical. Grass requires frequent watering, use of potentially harmful fertilizers and weekly maintenance in warmer months.

It’s easy to assume that drought-tolerant is synonymous with brown and boring. Not so. Mike Evans of the Tree of Life Nursery in San Juan Capistrano feels that replacing lawn with plants native to California is “more authentic, beautiful and engaging” as they attract birds, butterflies and other wildlife. These include hardy shrubs such as rock rose, lavender, sage and salvia, which thrive in warm, dry climates and produce delicate, fragrant blooms.

An arrangement of drought-tolerant succulents at the Plant Depot. Photo: Debra Holm

The Plant Depot, also in San Juan Capistrano, has expanded its succulent section, and staff member Nick Osuni states that, “Without a doubt, customers gravitate toward water-wise gardening practices.” Succulents offer a complex mosaic of shapes, sizes, colors and textures, while requiring very little water. Combining these interesting variables can create living art for an outdoor space.

Some homeowners may not be ready to part ways with their private park as grass can be a desirable area for children and pets to play. Decreasing the size of the lawn and replanting this area with drought-tolerant plants will still reap ecological benefits.

If personally undertaking an outdoor remodel holds no appeal, you can enjoy an eco-friendly outdoor oasis by working with one of the many local landscape designers who specialize in drought-tolerant planting.

Clean COMMUTE Riding electric bicycles to work strikes a balance between comfort and sustainable living

EZ Green Bikes in Dana Point sells a variety of electric bicycles, which make it easier to ride hills and commute to work. Photo: Matt Cortina

BY MATT CORTINA

A national movement is afoot to get folks out of their cars and onto bikes during their weekday commutes to work. The benefits are obvious: exercise, limiting your carbon footprint, and avoiding the traffic on the interstate.

But even for the eco-friendliest cyclophiles among us, the idea of hopping on a bike every morning—especially those gray and chilly ones—and sweating all the way to work as more and more emails pile up can be daunting. However, electric bicycles, or e-bikes, are thankfully hitting the mass market just in time to convince commuters to switch the car keys for the bike lock.

E-bikes come in a variety of different forms, but all are intended to greatly reduce the strenuousness of a bike commute, which is particularly appreciated while riding along the hills and cliffs of South Orange County. They can be modeled after road bikes (built for speed), or mountain bikes (built for rough terrain or durability). They come in comfort models (big seats and ergonomic handles) and minimalist or collapsible designs (built for those who take a bike on public transportation or have a cramped office space).

E-bikes generally have a motor, attached to either the pedal well or the rear wheel hub, which is activated as the rider pedals.

That is, you don’t just flip on a switch and let the bike do the work like a moped; rather you adjust the level of “pedal assist” you want while pedaling, which helps reduce resistance as you go uphill, ride into wind or just get tired. E-bikes have vary-

It Pays to BE

4. Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies. Not only can making cleaning supplies out of natural ingredients prevent toxins from entering your home and the environment, but you can save a buck too. Vinegar and baking soda, mixed into spray bottles, can clean just about anything in your home and reduce the need to buy toxic cleaners that literally just go down the drain.

Green

Five tips to save your bank account and the earth

BY MATT CORTINA

If you’re a modern day eco-warrior, advocating for people in your community to take steps to reduce their greenhouse gas footprint, one common complaint you might hear is that it’s just too expensive to go green. Solar panels, local produce, electric cars, organic pesticides—they may help the environment, but they can also hurt the wallet.

Though it’s true some of those endeavors may incur an upfront cost, they can also save you money in the long run by cutting down on energy and gas bills, trips to the doctor and yet another tub of RoundUp. In short, there’s a common theme when it comes to being green that an upfront investment yields longterm returns.

Here are five simple actions you can take to demonstrably lower your bills and your eco-footprint.

ing display options—from GPS devices to simple plus and minus buttons. The whole experience is almost like riding on a stationary bike at the gym, where you can adjust resistance with the press of a button.

Some e-bikes have gears to allow even more variability for riders. Most e-bikes are outfitted with a removable and rechargeable battery—the higher the assistance you request of it, and for how long, dictates how long it can last, but many models are good without a charge for up to 100 miles.

Robbie Villanueva, owner of EZ Green Bikes in Dana Point, sells a variety of ebikes ranging from $1,200 to $3,500—old bikes can also be fitted with motors and hubs. Villanueva bikes 17 miles to work one way from Rancho Santa Margarita on most days, and says the trip allows him to clear his head or listen to music or podcasts along the way.

A study by the European Cyclists Federation found that using an e-bike to commute to work will release 12 times fewer pounds of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere per day than driving.

As millennials integrate themselves into the workforce, they’re clamoring for more live-work spaces where bike commuting is friendlier, and cities are accommodating their tastes to lure talent—new bike lines and eco-friendly urban design all benefit the environment.

Friday, May 19 is National Bike to Work Day—why not rent, transition to or buy an e-bike to celebrate and start making a difference on your commute.

1. Ditch the Bottled Water. Bottled water is a scourge on this planet, and they’re a waste of your money. According to the EPA, bottled water is 600 times more expensive than tap water. If you bought a $1.50 bottle of water every day for a year ($547.50), that same amount out of the tap would cost less than a dime. Never mind the fact that making bottles uses 17 million barrels of oil annually, and Americans only end up recycling about 25 percent of water bottles. Ditch them and buy yourself a reusable bottle.

2. Turn the Lights Off. If you left an incandescent bulb on for 24 hours a day, it would cost you about $137 in energy bills

annually, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. Those eco-friendly high efficiency bulbs cost about $40 annually. The average house has 45 light bulbs. Just switching from incandescent to efficiency bulbs would cut your lighting bill by two-thirds.

3. Buy Second-Hand, Borrow or Just Don’t Buy. One of the easiest ways it pays to go green is by limiting your spending on new stuff. Buying consignment furniture or clothes repurposes items destined for the landfill. Borrowing everything from books to bikes reduces production of those items. And cutting out non-essential items reduces your contribution to the landfill and saves you some money.

5. Plant Shade Trees. It’s one of the first (and only) environmental lessons we learn in school: Planting trees is good for the Earth. Though their potential to host animal habitats and suck up carbon dioxide are worthy of praise, trees also help consumers by reducing energy bills in hot months. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting large trees on the east, west and northwest sides of your property can reduce summer air conditioning costs by 35 percent.

Buzzing Gardens Experts offer ways to make your gardens more bee friendly

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

Although it may be automatic to shoo away a buzzing bee, or else run in fear, experts say to do quite the opposite when the creature flies near the beloved flowers and plants in your garden.

“Don’t be afraid of the bees being in your yard,” said Christine Ferrian, president of the OC Beekeepers Association.

“They’re just there to forage; they won’t bother you if you don’t bother them.”

Ferrian and Janet Andrews, founder of Backyard Bees, both say bees are a critical part in the garden business and in the environment at large. (Albert Einstein is reported to have said that when the bees die, mankind has only four years left itself.) As the summer months approach, Ferrian and Andrews shared their advice on bee-friendly plants and pesticides and ways to keep the bees returning to your yard.

Through Backyard Bees, Andrews provides honey, natural beeswax products and educates community members about bees. She also provides an alternative to honeybee extermination by removing the bees without pesticides. They collect the accessible honeycomb and bees and relocate them into a wooden hive box and allow them to continue pollinating throughout the area.

Her business began after bees were found in the roof of her home. She said the contractor didn’t kill the bees but instead brought honey down.

“I always had a garden and chickens, so now I can always get honey and pollination,” Andrews said.

Janet Andrews, founder of Backyard Bees, offers an alternative to honeybee extermination.

Photo: Courtesy of Janet Andrews

To begin a bee-friendly garden, Andrews and Ferrian said some plants that gardeners can grow to attract the insects include lavender, rosemary, California pepper trees, mustard plant, milkweed, the lacy cecelia and more.

Ferrian said there’s an app—BeeSmart Pollinator Generator—that allows users to input their zip code and it will supply information about which plants are indigenous, the soil types to use on them, how much sunlight is needed and more.

But, Andrews adds, whatever you do plant, make sure there’s a lot of it.

“Make sure you have a large patch of it; they love it,” Andrews said. “If it’s a small bit, it won’t excite them.”

When deciding to use a spray, both Andrews and Ferrian say any type of spray could be harmful.

“Pesticides are always harmful; to what degree depends on the type of spray,” Ferrian said. “I would suggest using soapy water. It’s amazing to get rid of the bugs you don’t want.

“When the bees forage, they do go to the plants that have been sprayed,” Ferrian said. “If it doesn’t harm them right away, it could when they bring it back to the hive.”

When asked if there has been an influx of bees dying, Ferrian said it could be a result in development and the sprays.

“It’s all conducive to the bees dying,” Ferrian said. “The bees that are foraging are often at the end of their life spans. It could be that they’re dying because they’re old.”

She added that their habitats could be dwindling or there might not be enough flowers, but there are many reasons that could be going into a decline of bee populations.

Another tip for saving bees on which both experts agree is having a water source.

“If you have a fountain that has slow motion, a place where a bee could land to get a drink of water without drowning, (that is beneficial),” Andrews said.

Ferrian said to make sure it’s moving water so as not to attract mosquitoes.

For more about either the Assoication or Backyard Bees, visit www.ocbeekeepers.org or www.backyardbees.net.

Get Down on Earth Day

Take A Fresh Breath

Earth-Friendly Spring Events

Earth Day at the Ocean Institute Saturday, April 22; 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Celebrate being mindful of Mother Earth with eco-friendly crafts and marine exploration.

Get half-priced admission when you take part in keeping the Dana Point Harbor clean. Beach clean-up begins at 8:30 a.m.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www. ocean-institute.org.

Earth Day at The Ecology Center

Saturday, April 22; 10 a.m. Live music, dancing and strawberry picking round out this immersive environment-centric event aimed to bring together the local community to share, learn and dine with one another. Visit www. theecologycenter.com to register for workshops. The Ecology Center. 32801 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223.

Earth Day San Clemente

Saturday, April 22; 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

Learn how you can make a difference in protecting our planet with tips and tools to reduce litter and pollutants. This free, family-friendly event kicks off with an 8:30 a.m. North Beach clean-up and features live music, crafts, demonstrations and more.

Parque Del Mar, San Clemente Pier. www.scwatersheds.com.

Expand Your Eco-Knowledge Science in the Park

Saturday, April 29; 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

The curious of all ages are invited to explore Southern California’s heritage, indigenous plants and animals, natural history and Native American culture with educational, hands-on experiments, demonstrations and exhibits.

Parking is $5. Admission is $2 for those over 2. Irvine Regional

Park. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange. 714.973.6835. www.ocparks.com.

Eco Garden Expo

Saturday and Sunday, May 6 and 7; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Harness the community’s collective power and creativity with a lineup of workshops and exhibits hosted by local experts at this annual expo where guests can learn, explore and create change. Los Rios Park. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6386. www.goinnative.net.

Eco Tots

Thursday, May 11; 10:30 a.m.

Tiny gardeners are invited to feed chickens, create gardeninspired art, sing garden songs and use harvested rainwater to nourish The Ecology Center’s grounds. $25 a family. 32801 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.com.

Smart Gardening 101

Dates vary; 9:30 a.m.–11 a.m.

Design your dream garden, brush up on bugs, birds and bees, plot your seasonal planting and learn the basics of canning and fermentation during this free, expert-led lecture series.

Visit www.goinnative.com for

class schedule. Reata Park & Event Center, 28632 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.606.6386.

Show Mother Earth a Little Love Mother Earth Beach Cleanup

Saturday, April 15; 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Do your part to keep Doheny’s iconic surf, campgrounds and San Juan Creek clean. Meet at lifeguard headquarters. Bring gloves and a trash bag. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.6172. www.dohenystatebeach.org.

Earth Day Restoration, Cleanup

Saturday, April 22; 8:30 a.m.– 12:30 p.m. Join in cleaning up and restoring San Clemente State Beach’s nature trail before planting native plants and aiding the installation of an interpretive display. 225 W. Calafia Avenue, San Clemente. www.calparks. org/earthday.

Garden Angels

Thursdays; 8:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

Connect with the community, learn about gardening and help preserve historic San Juan each

week at the Montanez Adobe.

Bring gloves and wear close-toed shoes. 31745 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.606.6386. www.goinnative.net.

Starr Ranch Preservation

Various Dates. Join the “Weed Warriors” in removing invasive plants at Audubon California’s 4,000-acre sanctuary in the Santa Ana Mountains. Visit www. starrranch.org for a full list of volunteer days or email Sandy DeSimone at sdesimone@aububon.org from more information.

ROOTS Restoration

Fourth Saturdays; 9 a.m.–noon.

Lend Upper Newport Bay a hand by volunteering with the California Coastal Commission to remove invasive plants, sow seeds and perform site maintenance. Register at www.coastal. ca.gov. Contact Matt Yurko at 949.640.0286 for additional info.

Back to Natives Restoration

Saturdays throughout June, July and August; 9 a.m.–noon. Help restore habitat for animals at the Santiago Creek Nature Reserve in Santa Ana by removing invasive plants. Meet at Back to Natives Nursery. 600 E. Memory Lane, Santa Ana. 949.509.4787. www.backtonatives.org.

Native Plants Hike

First Tuesdays; 8:30 a.m.–11 a.m.

Learn the many uses of California’s native plants during this 2-mile hike over steep, uneven terrain. Parking is $3. Online reservation required. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.

949.923.2235. www.ocparks.com.

Yoga Hike

Second Wednesdays; 9 a.m.–10:30 a.m. Reconnect your mind and body on this 2.4-mile hike (with a yoga twist) through the San Joaquin. $3 parking fee. Hike is for participants ages 12 and up. Aliso & Wood Canyons Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel.

949.923.2200. www.ocparks.com.

Headlands Hikes

First, Second and Third Saturdays; 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Discover Orange County’s dramatic coastline on a 1.5-mile hike exploring the natural history and diverse ecosystems. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. 949.248.3527. www.danapoint.org.

Walk with a Naturalist

Saturdays; 9 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

Join an O’Neill Regional Park naturalist on this casual walk to learn about the plant and wildlife calling Trabuco Canyon home. $5 parking fee. O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon.

949.923.2260. www.ocparks.com.

Ranger-Led Hike

Sundays; 8 a.m.–9:15 a.m. Caspers Wilderness Park rangers lead a 1-mile hike of Bell Canyon to explore unique grassland, oak woodland and cactus communities. Hike is suitable for all ages. $5 parking fee. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com.

—Compiled by Andrea Papagianis-Camacho

It’s (So) Easy, Eating Green Eating “green” doesn’t have to be intimidating. While the lingo can conjure up visions of blending veggie smoothies or eating kale-heavy salads, embarking on a journey of more eco-friendly consumption can be much easier—and more delicious—than you think. (Although we definitely encourage you to reach for your kale smoothie goals.) Here are three simple tips to get you started:

one Limit animal and dairy product consumption.

Studies have shown that meat production creates considerably more greenhouse gas emissions than growing vegetables.

And according to a 2010 report from the IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, it takes about 1,850 gallons of water to produce a pound of beef, versus 39 gallons to produce a pound of vegetables. Consider taking “Meatless Monday” to the next level by going vegetarian or vegan a few days each week. There’s nothing like a grilled portobello burger made with fresh produce from your local farmers market. Which leads to our next tip …

two

Eat local when possible.

When you buy locally grown produce, you’re supporting your region’s economy while also treating yourself to fresher produce than the stuff that’s been trucked to a supermarket or big-box store.

South Orange County is brimming with local farmers markets that feature an array of vendors. San Juan Capistrano is also home to the certified organic South Coast Farms, where you can literally see where your food is coming from.

three Avoid buying in bulk and shop more frequently.

According to a 2015 study out of the University of Arizona, bulk buying food can often result in consumers buying more than they need and ultimately wasting more food than they realize. Recent studies have also shown that more than 30 percent of food grown in the U.S. ends up in landfills.

While buying wholesale is often done to save time and money, researchers found that people are overlooking the cost of the unused food they end up throwing away at home. The solution?

Shop more often and buy only what you’re going to use in the short-term.

—Allison Jarrell

Power Up

Going off the grid and establishing your personal utility

Ripe for the Picking Food rescue groups seek to solve food waste in Orange County

BY MATT CORTINA

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS-CAMACHO

What if someone told you they could zero out your bills?

Well, one bill particularly. You’d still be on the hook for your mortgage, insurance, water, cell phone and groceries but could—potentially—owe nothing to power up your home, office and car.

Kristin Ashwood and her husband, Matt, are in the homegrown-utility industry, helping homeowners and businesses become energy self-sufficient by utilizing the sun. The duo behind San Clemente’s Planet Earth Solar, has been pumping out anywhere from 125 to 175 solar projects per year for the past decade.

They’re part of a growing movement making electric independence possible.

“It (solar) allows you to produce everything you use,” Kristin said. “You become your own micro-utility.”

According to official San Diego Gas & Electric figures, some 109,600 customers throughout the company’s service area in San Diego and South Orange Counties have already taken the solar plunge.

With the technology improving and lawmakers continuing to push toward a cleaner, greener California, we reached out to Planet Earth Solar to talk about their backgrounds, solar technology and funding sources.

An EPA, Energy Combo Matt is an electrician by trade. An Englishman with decades of electrical experience, he began working in solar when he came to the states. The challenge of an ever-evolving technology has kept him hooked.

Kristin traveled a different path to solar.

An environmental policy major, Kristin went to work for the Environmental Protection Agency before receiving her master’s in climate studies. She knew a policy or desk job was out of the question.

“I wanted to do something for the environment,” Kristin said. “I wanted to see the change.”

Ten years ago she moved to California and began working in energy—installing and managing solar projects throughout the state. She’s never looked back. The Ashwoods melded their experience to create Planet Earth Solar in 2012 with a vision of making solar accessible and stress-free.

When it comes to solar reservations, the Ashwoods encounter two: technology and cost.

Solar technology is becoming increasingly more efficient, with panels producing about 150 more watts than they were 10 years ago, Kristin said. Customers often ask if they should wait. Kristin says, “No.” While renewable technologies continue to advance, the cost savings of today could outweigh the benefit of waiting for tomorrow. With energy rates on the rise, the time spent delaying solar installation could wind up costing people more as they lose out on zeroed-out energy bill savings. And when it comes to overall system costs, solar investors can benefit from a federal tax-credit and various financing options.

“It takes about five years to recover the costs of solar or pay yourself back for the investment,” she said.

The Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program allows property owners to finance energy efficiency and renewable projects through property tax bills.

This form of financing comes with little to no up-front costs and enables spreading payments out without dipping into other lines of credit.

Although SDG&E and Southern California Edison no longer offer rebate programs, the federal government offers homeowners a renewable energy tax credit for 30 percent of eligible system costs.

RENEWABLE ENERGY TAX CREDIT 30 percent credit of system costs until 2019

Taxpayers can claim a 30 percent credit for costs of their solar system. The tax-credit program, extended under the Consolidated Appropriations Act in late 2015, will gradually be reduced to 26 percent in 2021 and 22 percent until 2022 when it is set to expire.

More information at: www.energy.gov.

PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY PROGRAM Payback renewable project costs in property tax bill

PACE programs grant local governments the ability to fund up-front costs of commercial and residential energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. This loan is then paid back by property owners through their property tax bill over time. More information at: www.energy.center.org.

About one-third of all food produced around the world is lost or wasted every year, according to the United Nations. In the U.S., up to 40 percent of food is wasted. And food and other organic waste is the second most abundant object in our country’s landfills—which are the main source of methane emissions, a harmful greenhouse gas. At the same time, about 1 in 5 children in Orange County do not have access to enough food.

In short, food waste is a humanitarian and environmental catastrophe.

But groups around the country are making an effort to “rescue” food that otherwise would be wasted. By working with homeowners, communities, grocery stores and restaurants, food rescue groups take food headed for the landfill and distribute it to families in need, often via charitable organizations.

One such group is the Orange County Food Access Coalition, whose Harvest Club sends volunteers throughout the county to pick fruit that would otherwise go unused and distribute it to those in need.

Harvest Club started as a small resident group in Huntington Beach in 2009. That first year, the group rescued 2,000 pounds of food. After shifting hands to the Coalition, more than 51,000 pounds were saved in 2015, followed by 81,000 pounds in 2016. In just the first three months of 2017, the group has saved 25,000 pounds of fruit.

“We know we’re just scratching the surface,” said Coalition Executive Director Christina Hall. “We have so many trees in Orange County. My mapping indicates about 60 percent of all residents, trailers, apartments and houses have at least one fruit tree.”

Hall said South Orange County is particularly ripe for the picking. Although home to many of the Coalition’s volunteers—and home to an abundant

Photo: Courtesy The Harvest Club

supply of fruit trees—Hall said more donors are needed in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point to help prevent food waste.

The process is simple: Homeowners with fruit trees can call or email the Coalition. Together, they’ll determine how many volunteers are needed for the pick based on tree size, quantity and type. Then a time for the pick is mutually agreed upon—Hall said, “We highly value our growers’ safety, privacy and security,” so only day-of volunteers are notified of addresses. After the pick, the food is shipped to a local food pantry or distribution center and letters of thanks are distributed to the growers and volunteers indicating how much food was rescued.

Because fruit is picked from home growers, the quality of the food is superior, Hall said.

“Most people don’t spray stuff so this is really awesome produce that is getting into the communities,” she said.

Across the county, the Harvest Club welcomes 1,000 volunteers who pick fruit, about 15 volunteer project managers, about 250 growers, and about 200 pantries to whom food is delivered.

And yet South Orange County remains relatively untapped by the Harvest Club, so Hall said she is excited about the future growth in the region and hopes residents in the area sign up to volunteer or donate food at www.theharvestclub.org.

TrickleDown Ecology The Water Effect program helps students spread info on water conservation

BY ERIC HEINZ

In San Juan Capistrano, The Ecology Center is looking to provide students with tools to promote water conservation and sustainability in their communities.

Lauren Fieberg, the school programs coordinator, said one of the center’s programs, The Water Effect, was designed to influence students to be mindful of how they use water and how they can conserve it.

“We really want to reach the high school kids,” Fieberg said. “There wasn’t really that much to engage them in water conservation, and we want to get them fired up about it.”

Fieberg’s background is in high school education as well as ecological science.

“We put a call out for our Water Effect high school ambassadors as an internshipbased program,” Fieberg said. “The students would take the information back to their schools, and we got 16 students who were really passionate.”

Students at San Clemente High School participate in a water conservation effort to reduce use of single plastic bottles as well as show students how much water goes into the products they purchase on a weekly or daily basis. Photo: Tony Wodark

Ambassadors come from San Clemente High School, Dana Hills and Orange County School for the Arts, as well as other local schools.

One of the student ambassadors works out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and found The Water Effect through the center’s social media campaigns.

“One of the things we wanted to do is create something that could be replicated, an open-source model,” Fieberg said. “We have a student ambassador toolkit that has different campaigns and ideas that students can activate on their campuses regarding water conservation.”

Some of these campaigns include a

“meatless Monday,” where each meal is dedicated to not eating meat, and clothing swaps, as both textiles and meat-based industries use large amounts of water to manufacture their products. By following these campaigns, Fieberg said, people can significantly reduce their impact on local and far-reaching water sources.

“We’ve had a variety of campaigns over the years about water usage, such as purchase with a purpose,” Fieberg said. “Just buying local can conserve water, and we want to show students the steps to conserve water that may not be immediately visible.”

Campaigns are also dedicated to encouraging people to ditch their lawns for

front yards filled with native plant species, which need less water than imported species.

The toolkits also come with a simplified “water footprint calculator” students can use to track their own water usage.

“We encourage students to speak with their local facilities (school boards, governments) about water conservation and looking literally at the water bill,” Fieberg said. “It’s a challenge to know what you’re using at the district level, and it’s a lot of problem-solving for them. The cohorts come together once or twice a month for collective conversations and brainstorming speakers.”

Fieberg said they will take the students on a field trip to the Hurley International facility, which she said is a company that has been ahead of the curve on water conservation.

Part of the program is also teaching students to use social media to get their message more exposure. Try searching the hashtag #thewatereffect and see for yourself.

Jackson Hinkle, a co-founder of Team Zissou at San Clemente High School, has been the school’s student ambassador to The Water Effect. At the school, they have proposed making refill stations for students to fill their reusable water bottles instead of buying new ones or reusing single plastic bottles.

For more information about The Ecology Center’s program, visit www.theecologycenter.org/water. For more information on Team Zissou, follow them on Instagram @teamzissouglobal.

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) KARAOKE AT GOODY’S 8 p.m. Karaoke at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real.

949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Wednesday | 19 FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB 2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

KARAOKE AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 7 p.m. Sing karaoke, imbibe and eat free popcorn at The Swallow’s Inn’s karaoke night with Bobby and Joel. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY 7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails.

Event is $25. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

LIVE MUSIC: WILL HEARD 7-10:30 p.m. Listen to music from Will Heard at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Thursday | 20 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

LIVE THEATER: ‘SHREK THE MUSICAL’ 5 p.m. The Arts Project of Orange County presents two stagings of Shrek the Musical, one at 5 p.m. with a junior cast, and one at 7:30 p.m. with a company cast. Showings run through the weekend, and also include presentations with a teen cast. Tickets are $12–$15. 1317 Calle Avanzado, San Clemente. 949.276.2787. www.tapocshrek. brownpapertickets.com.

SESSIONS AT STILLWATER 7 p.m. Listen to live music when artists from around the world perform together.

Stillwater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www. danapointstillwater.com.

THE DISH THEDISH DISH THE

HUMMINGBIRD HOUSE CAFE’S LAMB GYRO

I

t’s hard to beat the environment at Hummingbird House—right at the mouth of Los Rios Street, it’s as easy to people watch as it is to get lost in the ambiance of the open-air patio. But it’s also fair to say that the food upstages even the setting.

The Mediterranean menu offers dozens of fresh salads, sandwiches and soups, but the lamb gyro is a house specialty. A fluffy pita, slightly sweet and slightly salty, is packed with fresh and crisp lettuce, onion and tomato. It’s all a bed for succulent strips of lamb and herbaceous tzatziki sauce.

The lamb was perfectly succulent, and though all gaminess had been removed, there lingered the pleasant earthiness that makes lamb such a treat. The tzatziki sauce was cool and creamy, while also snappy with acidic green herb and simple, bright seasoning.

With a side kale salad dressed in Greek dressing, it was a simple meal to finish quicker than you’d hoped—which is all the more reason to go back.

Hummingbird House Cafe.

26711 Verdugo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.5090. www.hummingcafe.com.

On Stage at the Coach House: Doug Benson

LIVE MUSIC: THE KALAMA BROTHERS 7-10:30 p.m. Listen to music from The Kalama Brothers at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

S

ee if you can spot a theme with Doug Benson’s comedy in the names of some of his most popular works: Super High Me, The High Court with Doug Benson, and the Getting Doug with High podcast.

Stumped? Then you may be just the person to sit in the audience when Benson brings special guests to the Coach House for a live taping of Getting Doug with High on April 20 at 8 p.m.

But weed is only part of what makes Benson’s projects so great—he’s a legitimately funny guy and career stand-up with a commitment to good jokes. He’s also a podcast pioneer, beginning a moviebased podcast in 2006.

The live tapings of Getting Doug include guests ingesting marijuana in some form,

UPCOMING EVENT: FRIDAY, APRIL 21 CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL 6:30-9 p.m. The two-day California Wine Festival kicks off at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott with a sunset tasting of reserve and rare wines. Top regional chefs will serve appetizers, and there will be live jazz music. On Saturday, the festivities move to Lantern Bay Park from 1-4 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Surfrider Foundation. $35-$159. www.californiawinefestival.com.

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to Dana Point Times by going to www.danapointtimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Photo: Courtesy

talking, and then witnessing a magic trick at the end. It’s just perfect.

No word on the guests yet—that’ll be a surprise for the show. And whether you (legally) partake or not before the show, you’re likely to laugh.

Tickets are $25, and doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House Concert Hall.

33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

At the Movies: Evans’ Latest is Barely ‘Gifted’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

C

Photo: Wilson Webb/Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp.

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

hris Evans is known as Captain America to everyone the same way Christopher Reeve was known as Superman. Evans is an iconic superhero brought to life on screen in the most charismatic way, but like Reeve, it’s taking a while for Evans to find equal success outside of his franchise.

The sci-fi adventure Snowpiercer (2013) is his most success film outside of the Marvel universe, while his rom-coms Before We Go and Playing It Cool flopped in 2014. His latest is a family feature, penned Gifted.

Seven-year-old Mary Adler (Mckenna Grace) is attending second grade in a smalltown Florida public school for the first time after being homeschooled. Very quickly, her teacher Bonnie Stevenson (Jenny Slate) discovers that Mary is uniquely advanced in higherlevel mathematics. Mary’s uncle and legal guardian Frank (Evans) feels she should experience a normal childhood, while her grandmother Evelyn (Lindsay Duncan) thinks she should use her intelligence to full advantage.

The scenes between Evans and Slate in Gifted come across as genuinely cute

Page 11

and believable as a pairing, most likely because of their authentic relationship during filming. But the protagonist herself suffers from the cardinal sin of movie kids: she’s overtly precocious and bratty.

The issue could be Grace’s performance, Tom Flynn not being familiar with writing adolescent characters, or Marc Webb not knowing how to direct child actors, or all of the above. Either way, the character should be more natural, like in Little Man Tate (1991) or Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993), and less of a film caricature. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

An Unfolding Story The yogi behind Yoga in the Park, iHeartYoga shares her unique experiences

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

A

t Lantern Bay Park, you can hear the waves crashing at Doheny, the wind rustling tree branches, and children playing in a nearby playground.

Of course on most mornings, you’ll also come across about a couple dozen people doing yoga.

On a recent Monday morning, the skies were a perfect blue, there was a slight breeze, and Elsa Stephen walked between the rows of people stretching on yoga mats and blankets. In front of her, there were probably 40 people, all closing their eyes as they finished an hour-long yoga class.

Yoga in the Park takes place every morning, and three days a week at sunset during the spring and summer months.

“I started teaching in the park right when I got certified,” Stephen said of the group’s beginnings.

She said she asked a group of friends to let her practice a routine on them, which she laughs about now.

“They looked miserable,” Stephen laughed. “But, at the end they said, ‘This is amazing, we should do this every week.’”

The group started meeting every Tuesday morning. During those early days, there was about six or seven people in attendance.

“They then started inviting friends, who would invite friends; six months into it I said, ‘My friends aren’t even here anymore, I don’t know who these people are,’” Stephen said. “There was probably 20 or so people coming every week.”

Stephen said at the time, it was a parttime gig. But as she grew more comfortable with her teaching, she began accepting donations.

“After another six months I was making more money from my donation class than my actual studio classes,” Stephen said.

A year after park yoga began, Stephen said they introduced more days to the schedule, and it turned into a community event.

“It was super cool, you’d see people riding by on their bikes, people stopping to ask about it,” Stephen said.

Stephen eventually added a couple more instructors to her roster, and it only continued to grow.

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

Elsa Stephen, the founder and owner of iHeartYoga, poses in Lantern Bay Park after Yoga in the Park.

Photo: Kristina Pritchett

Elsa Stephen in the new retail space, where the company holds ‘The Bachelor’ watch parties.

Photo: Kristina Pritchett

“There could be some days where 100 people will show up; most yoga studios don’t see 100 people in one day,” Stephen said.

Stephen also started Yoga at the Mission, which brings clients to the Mission San Juan Capistrano during the warmer months; Bend and Brew at Left Coast Brewing Company in San Clemente; Stand-Up Paddleboard Yoga with Westwind Sailing; and more.

Two years ago, Stephen and her husband, John, began to search for a home for the business.

“My husband said we should just try it, the worst case scenario would be if we failed, the best case would be if it worked,” Stephen said. “He said, ‘You don’t want to look back and not have tried it; it will bug you more if you don’t give it a shot.’”

Their current home was the first space at which they looked, Stephen said, and when she walked in, she began to imagine the possibilities.

“My eyes were bugging and all these ideas came to my head,” Stephen said.

The studio has been open for a year and

a half, and Stephen said the first year was difficult.

“It was a little bit of a slow start,” Stephen said. “You get discouraged and frustrated. People tell you it’s way harder to run a business.”

She doesn’t know whether it took some time for people to get into the rhythm of going to the studio for classes, but she’s thankful for the support of her instructors.

“We have some of the best teachers in town; they believe in the business and they believe in me,” Stephen said. “Half of (our) teachers have been here since day one.

And they’re phenomenal.”

A year after the studio opened, iHeartYoga expanded and now has a retail space and reception area.

“I think it was just the natural progression,” Stephen said about the new space.

“I think it makes us more of an established business. It feels good.”

Stephen said people ask her what it’s like to have her dreams come true, and she admits the dream was not on the original agenda for her life.

“I think everything happened super organically,” Stephen said. “But, if you asked me 10 years ago, I wouldn’t even be able to imagine this. It’s better than I hoped or dreamed.”

Prior to her yoga career, Stephen said she was a bicycle tour guide but during the off months, she would return to her lifelong home of Dana Point.

“I always liked the way yoga made me feel but not knowing necessarily why,” Stephen said. “I’m pretty strong and fit but I couldn’t even touch my toes when I started teaching. But, whenever I got out of a class I would want to hug strangers,

Page 12

give high-fives, it was almost like a yoga high, and it would last for an hour or so.”

She said in between seasons of tour guiding, she took a certification class and fell in love.

“It wasn’t the intention to be a yoga studio owner, it was just something I liked, and it was a nice skill to have,” Stephen said. “Once I started, I was addicted.”

Throughout the day, iHeartYoga offers a variety of classes, from the beginner levels to the advanced. Stephen said the group’s success was not a solo thing.

Her husband, John, has been the “man behind the scenes,” Stephen said.

“He makes everything work,” she added.

She said he encouraged her to create a Facebook page, helped make the logo come alive and worked with her on the website.

“We have cameras, computers, a software system, and he’s done all of that. I wouldn’t have been able to open a studio without him,” Stephen said.

After Yoga in the Park, Elsa was behind the counter helping a client register for a class, and she answered questions regarding levels of difficulty for her classes and straightened some retail items.

“Before, I would teach 15 classes a week and that was my job,” Stephen said. “Now we have instructors and 5,000 students a month and that’s my job, and teaching is on the side.”

When asked if she regrets that, she smiled.

“It’s super exciting, I’ve been teaching yoga for nine years, and it’s kind of fun to do something new and have your brain work in a different way,” Stephen said, She added she gets to pick out clothing for the retail space and work with other local business owners to bring in those items.

“I still love teaching and it’s still my favorite part of the day,” Stephen said.

“Being outside with everyone is still my favorite.”

Moving forward, Stephen said she’d like to see the studio’s Mexican yoga retreats more connected to an orphanage that recently opened nearby.

“I’d love to see us get more hands-on involved,” Stephen said. “Some philanthropy work; as a studio, and a community, we can support a cause greater than us.

That’s been on my mind a lot.”

She said she’d like to see, at least, three of the upcoming retreats be geared toward helping out at the orphanage.

She said expanding into two locations is not on the radar, but it’s not a definite no like it might have been during the first year of the business.

“Working with the orphanage and expanding in that way is more of where my heart is right now,” Stephen said.

To see the group’s full list of classes, visit iheartyoga.org. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com HELP WANTED DANA POINT MARINA INN We are ramping up for summer and looking for service oriented persons. Full and part time shifts available - Flexible days and hours. Job listings: *Front desk clerks *Reservation agents *Housekeeping supervisors (experience required) *Housekeepers *Porters *Breakfast room attendants *Maintenance *Painters. Great working environment - Paid vacations Apply in person. Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, Ca 92629.

AQUATIC TECHNICIAN NEEDED Will train. Position based in San Clemete and San Juan Capistrano. Must have truck and insurance. Long term growth potential. Starting pay $17 per hr 40 hrs per week. Advancement to $19 additional training.

Contact: Peter 714-241-1315

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

LOST & FOUND 4/11/17 MY DOG MILLIE, ESCAPED FROM PETSMART GROOMING AROUND 1PM. She was last seen running back towards Petsmart and the Dollar General are being struck my a truck. She is a 1 yr old floppy eared shepherd mix, petite in size. Very skiddish, afraid of most men, and very stand offish. She is also a very loving dog. She is chipped and missing her collar. 301-473-1410

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or email lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

OTHER INTERESTING STUFF CHURCH IS SUCH A HASSLE Attend church this Sunday in a small town in Montana from the comfort of your own home, pour yourself a cup of coffee and join us this Sunday at 8:00AM or 10:00AM www.bitterrootvalleycalvarychapel.com

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 Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

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

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

How a Dana Point Man Met Elvis, ‘The King’

W

hen Dana Point resident Michael McLeavy read “Delivering a Letter to Johnny Cash,” a column I wrote last month, he responded: “I enjoyed your column and thought you might get a kick out of how I met Elvis Presley, since Elvis was a friend of your friend Johnny Cash.”

Michael and I got together and compared stories about how he met Elvis and how I met Johnny, two great Tennessee singing legends.

Meeting Elvis was a life goal for Michael, who was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and was lead singer with a popular rock and roll group called The Fireflies. On July 3, 1965, he came to the United ON LIFE AND States to meet Elvis and to LOVE AFTER 50 further his music career.

By Tom Blake After Michael settled into the Los Angeles area, an acquaintance gave him the address in Bel Air where Elvis was living while filming a movie called Spin Out in Hollywood. One day, when the gates to the home were open, Michael walked through and knocked on the front door. A housekeeper answered.

Michael said to her, “I have come all the way from Scotland to meet Elvis.” The housekeeper explained that Elvis was in Memphis taking a break from filming, but she invited him into the home along with Richard Davies, one of Elvis’s valets, who showed Michael around the house.

After Elvis returned to Los Angeles, Michael would occasionally stop by the Bel Air home to try to meet him. Michael had become friends with Davies and two other friends of Elvis—Sonny West and Jerry Schilling. They told Michael to come by one night and that Elvis would meet him.

But Michael had borrowed a friend’s car and had promised to return the car by 10 p.m. So, before Elvis came out, Michael had to leave. He had been so close to reaching his goal, which made him even more determined. Sonny West gave Michael the phone number of Tom Diskin, who worked for MGM Studios and knew Elvis’ filming schedule.

Diskin also knew of Michael’s story. He told Michael to go to the Ascot Motor Car Racing Track in Torrance the following Thursday at 8 a.m., where Elvis would be on location shooting the movie.

Michael was there, bright and early. He saw Elvis arrive in his Rolls Royce. Sonny West took Michael to the set and gave him a seat next to where Elvis would be sitting.

Michael said, “You can imagine how I felt, that I was going to achieve my greatest ambition: to meeting the King of Rock N Roll. Soon, Sonny walked up with Elvis and introduced us. Elvis said, ‘Hi Mike, so glad you could make it.’ He made me feel completely at ease. Elvis began talking about Scotland and how he had touched down at Prestwick Airport on his way home from the Army. He said he wanted me to stay there the entire day! It was incredible.

“At the end of the day, Elvis alone walked me to the gate entrance and said, ‘I hope you enjoyed the day. Best of luck, Mike.’ I had spent eight hours talking with Elvis and watching him making a movie. I will never forget that ‘unreal day.’”

Six years later, on August 12, 1972, Michael went to see Elvis perform at the Hilton International Hotel in Las Vegas.

Before the show, Michael saw Sonny West, who invited him backstage to meet with Elvis after the show. So, Michael got to be with Elvis a second time.

Michael has lived a fascinating life. In 1967, after living and working in Honolulu, he returned to L.A. to become a personal assistant for actor Laurence Harvey, who lived in Malibu.

Harvey hosted lots of splashy parties, and Michael got to meet many celebrities at the events, including Orson Welles, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Burt Lancaster, Mia Farrow, Doris Day, Julie Andrews and Sharon Tate, with whom he became friends.

In 1970, Michael took a salesman position with New York Life Insurance Company at the L.A. Airport office. He

Pet of the Week: Cuddles

W

hen it comes to being friendly, no one can beat 6-year-old Cuddles. As her name suggests, she is very affectionate and playful and doesn’t mind a good snuggle after an energetic game of “catch the mouse toy.” Give her a chance and she’s sure to win you over with her winning personality. If you would like to know more about Cuddles, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

Cuddles. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter

Page 14

Tom Blake and Michael McLeavy hold a Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley poster promoting a March 10, 1956, concert in Mississippi. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Blake

was promoted to assistant manager in the Century City office and to general manager at the Laguna Hills office. He took early retirement and is now an independent entertainment professional.

Michael is a talented singer with three CDs to his credit, “Shopping Days,” “That’s the Way It Was,” and “I Believe in the Man in the Sky.” Soon, he will be going to Nashville to record a new CD. While there, he said he’d visit the Johnny Cash Museum. His CDs are available on iTunes and www.cdbaby.com/cd/michaelmcleavy.

Michael has been in Dana Point since 1990, where he lives with his wife, Linda, and two cats, Elvis and Priscilla (of course).

Visit Michael McLeavy’s Facebook page to learn more about this interesting Dana Point resident.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating.

See his websites at www.findingloveafter50. com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55. com. To receive Tom’s weekly newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Sudoku

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

Last week’s solution:

See the solution in next week’s issue.

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STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dana Outrigger Team Headed to World Master Games DANA POINT TIMES

A

small crew of six Dana Outrigger Canoe Club members are travelling to the other side of the world next week to compete in the 2017 World Master Games.

The World Master Games, which will be held in Auckland, New Zealand, is billed as the world’s largest multi-sport event and is held every four years in different locales.

All competitors in the games are over the age of 40.

The Dana Outrigger crew is competing in the canoe racing’s sprint and marathon 55+ divisions, and will be racing against top teams from Russia, French Polynesia, Tahiti and the Cook Islands. The team’s sprint qualifying heats are scheduled for April 23, and the marathon race, which is a 30-kilo-

meter open ocean paddle, is set for April 24.

Dana Outrigger team captain Jody Kummer explained how her team’s practice times in the sprint are trending in the right direction, and a chance at a podium finish could be in the cards. But the sprint is one of the more unpredictable race styles in outrigger paddling, as most sprints are decided by hundredths of a second.

The team will arrive in Auckland in time to walk in the World Master Games Opening Ceremonies with the United States contingency.

The Dana Outrigger team that will compete in the games includes: Maureen Dempsey, Sally Edwards, Sherri Bauer, Jody Kummer, Suzie Gras and Marcia Chittum Michel. The team is coached by Lori Davis and Kevin Dempsey. DP

A Dana Outrigger Canoe team is headed to New Zealand to compete in the 2017 World Masters Games next week. Photo: Courtesy

Dolphin Report

The Dolphins (11-11, 3-0) returned from an 11-day hiatus to defeat Aliso Niguel on the road in five sets on April 11.

Dana Hills was scheduled to play Tesoro on April 13. Results were not available at press time.

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

Softball Opens League Play with 8-2 Win

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

Historic Effort Sends Triton Lacrosse Past Dolphins There simply was no stopping the San Clemente boys lacrosse team on April 11.

The Tritons played host to rival Dana Hills and delivered a complete performance for the record books in a 28-0 South Coast League victory.

San Clemente set new program records in goals scored and largest margin of victory in the win.

The Tritons (8-2, 5-0 league) jumped out to an early lead and did not let up, scoring 21 goals on 37 shot attempts in the first half alone. By the final whistle, 13 different Triton players had found the back of the net.

The Tritons were led by Matt Keany (four goals, three assists), Jake Steele (six goals) and Nick Lemus (three goals, one assist).

Dana Hills (0-10, 0-5) is still in search of its first victory of the season. The Dolphins will play a home game against Bingham (3-8) of Utah on April 14.

Following the game against Bingham, the Dolphins will have a busy slate of games. Dana Hills will travel to play El Toro (April 19), host Aliso Niguel (April 20) and travel to play Murieta Mesa (April 21).

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

A Dana Hills lacrosse player looks for an opening against San Clemente during a South Coast League game on April 11. Photo: Eric Heinz

Golf Splits Series with Tritons The Dana Hills and San Clemente boys golf teams split the season series with one another this week, and the two are poised for a tight race to the finish for a second consecutive year. The two teams split the South Coast League title last season.

San Clemente won the first tilt 189-193 on their home track at Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club on April 11. Match medal honors went to Christian Wentzel of San Clemente and Hayden Hill of Dana Hills for shooting 36 (E).

One day later, the Dolphins hosted the Tritons on their home course, El Niguel

Country Club, and came away with a 209212 win. Wentzel earned match medal honors again with a score of 39 (+3).

The two teams combined margin of victory in two matches was seven strokes.

The Dolphins improved their league record to 5-1, and have played two more matches than the Tritons, who own a 2-2 league record.

Volleyball Maintains Pace in League Play The first-place Dana Hills boys volleyball team continued its winning ways following some time off for Spring Break.

Page 16

Serafine Parrish struck out 10 and the Dana Hills softball bats recorded 16 hits in a convincing 8-2 Sea View League victory over Trabuco Hills on March 28.

Parrish, who picked up her sixth win of the season, allowed three hits and two runs in five innings and left with a comfortable 6-2 lead.

The Dolphin bats were red-hot, as Mia Onesto, Meryl Reinhart and Tori Sickmeier all turned in 3 for 3 efforts at the plate.

Dana Hills (8-13, 1-0) was scheduled to play San Juan Hills on April 13. Results were not available at press time.

Titans’ Big Inning Downs Baseball Team A five-run third inning propelled the Tesoro baseball team past visiting Dana Hills 9-3 in a Sea View League game on April 12.

It was the Dolphins (10-8, 3-2) first game back since appearing the finals of the National High School Invitational in North Carolina on April 1.

Dana Hills defeated the Titans on March 22, and the two teams will contest the rubber match of the season series on April 14. Dana Hills is currently in second place in the league standings behind Trabuco Hills. www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surf Roundup

SURF FORECAST

Three stories from the world of surf

Water Temperature: 58-62 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: Local: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Catalina: 15’ Fair

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

Andino finals in Western Australia Two events into the World Surf League’s Championship Tour and San Clemente’s Kolohe Andino sits third in the world. Finishing runner-up at the Drug Award Pro at Margaret River down in Western Australia, Andino’s well positioned to make a run at a world title this season.

“The waves today—and the entire event for that matter—have been awesome,” said Andino after the final, which was won by Hawaii’s John John Florence. “You can’t ask for much more than big swell and offshore winds. I know I work as hard as anyone else on tour and my surfing is there, but I just need to work on competing right.”

The WSL Championship Tour now heads to Bells Beach for the Rip Curl Pro. The surf forecast is calling for plenty of surf for the Easter holiday Down Under.

Remembering the late, great San Clemente High Surf Coach Bill Hartman If the mark of a man is the good he leaves behind when his days are finally over, Coach Bill Hartman’s life was epic by every measure. Responsible for launching the San Clemente High School Surf Team in 1977, he spent his entire career at the school before retiring in 2005. On March 30, Hartman passed away while out surfing his favorite spot at Grandview Street in

GROM OF THE WEEK

GRIFFIN GLENN

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he thing about growing up a surfer in South Orange County is that there’s no shortage of options.

Griffin Glenn, this week’s Grom of the Week, is a perfect example. Since he started surfing four years ago, Griffin’s made excellent use of the various surfscapes in the local area. He’s as happy linking turns at Uppers as he is crossstepping at San Onofre, but you may also find him perfecting his down-carve at

Dana Point Times April 14-20, 2017

Outlook: Fun size blend of WNW and SSW swell through Friday with overlapping swells. Wave are mainly in the waist-chest high (3-4’) range.

Wave heights drop out through the weekend.

Winds don’t look ideal, but could be light in the early mornings. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

Kolohe Andino is the third-ranked surfer in the world after two events. Photo: WSL/Ed Sloane

Encinitas. He was 72 years old.

“He was a true legend and a mentor to so many,” remembered local pro surfer and …Lost Surfboards rep Nate Yeomans.

“My senior year I was flunking surf team because I ditched too many surf classes.

To make up the lost credit, Coach made a deal: for every 500 meters I would swim, he would give me one day’s credit. I spent over a month swimming laps in the school pool during lunch to make up those credits.

Looking back, those were some of my fondest memories with him.”

Over the course of his tenure at San Clemente High, Hartman served as a teacher, Athletic Director, water polo coach, swim coach, and, of course, surf coach. In 1999, his surf team won the state championship, beating the Huntington High powerhouse, who had won 17 of the last 20 titles. In terms of the dynasty that was to become of the Triton surf program, it was a victory that put the squad on the map.

“It was the raddest thing … to beat them,” said alumni Mike Losness shortly after winning the title. Today he enjoys a career as an artist and works with the surf company Reef. “Ever since I was a fresh-

man, it’s always been Huntington Beach.

But we changed that. It was perfect timing.

It was the perfect gift.”

When Hartman retired in ’05, his teams owned six of the last seven national titles.

He was named NSSA coach of the year in ’04 and ’05, and earned SC High Teacher of the Year honors in ’83 and ’88.

“I remember him turning his attention away as we jumped off the Pier when it was big,” recalled Shaun Pezman, a former surf team member that is now at the helm of The Surfer’s Journal. “As rule-abiding as you’d expect a teacher to be, the surf rebel in him couldn’t help it. That always stuck with me. I’m sure Miki Dora would be amused. I quit the football team to join the surf team because of how rad he was and how prestigious he had made the surf program. Surfers at San Clemente were as popular and as sought after as the starting varsity football team.”

“Coach, he was the man,” testified Dane Gudauskas, who surfed for Hartman and is up for a Big Wave Award for Best Tube Ride this year. “My brothers and I all surfed for him and so did so many of our friends.

What he did for the surf community in San

the San Clemente Pier or T Street.

A talented longboarder, Glenn attends Bernice Ayer Middle School and just chalked up a third-place finish in the longboard division in his last contest. A fan of classic stylists such as Colin McPhillips and Joel Tudor, he’s also prone to fits of radness, citing high-flying Filipe Toledo and the Gudauskas Brothers as his other favorite surfers.

When not walking the plank, you may find him bodysurfing the local shorebreak or working through a few turns on his skateboard. Glenn’s a quintessential Orange County surf rat that knows full well when it comes to surf, somewhere near his house has got to be breaking.

Photo: Courtesy

Page 18

Clemente, I don’t know if you can really put it into words. He touched so many lives in so many ways. He died doing what he loved, but he’s going to be missed. Guys like Coach don’t come around very often.”

Hartman is survived by his wife, Candy, his son, Todd, and his daughter, Jen DuBois.

Judge postpones April 14 hearing on SONGS After mounting pressure, the planned April 14 hearing regarding the disposal of the 3.6 million pounds of spent nuclear fuel at the shuttered San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) has been postponed.

The owners of SONGS, Southern California Edison (SCE), are willing to consider removing the waste instead of storing it onsite, which was met with much opposition by local environmental and civic groups.

Last week, attorneys for SCE and opposition groups asked a San Diego Superior Court judge to delay the hearing to pursue a settlement.

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