July 21, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

July 21-27, 2017 C A N

U S E

Dana Point Resident uses Passion for Literacy to Help Children PAGE 11 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 29

Making the Most of this Summer Sixteen ideas for a Dana Point staycation D P L I V I N G / PAG E 1 0

An idea for those who wish to stay local for their summer vacation is renting a bike.

Take a ride through Doheny State Beach and enjoy the scenery. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

City Council Hires New City Manager

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Long-time Park Ranger Leads Shark Discussion at Science Night EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

In the Club: California Surf Clubs are Heading to Salt Creek DP SURF/PAGE 14

GO TO DANAPOINTTIMES.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week

Long-time Park Ranger Leads Shark Discussion at Science Night THE LATEST: Former Doheny State Beach Park Ranger Jim Serpa led a discussion about the myths pertaining to sharks at the Dana Point Community Center on Thursday, July 13.

This summer, sharks have been spotted numerous times along Dana Point beaches, prompting tagging efforts and beach closures. Several presentations have been held by experts in the field in an effort to better understand the animals’ behavioral and migration patterns.

As part of the city’s Science Night, Sepra brought his 20-plus years of knowledge to the Center to discuss the myths of the animals, the 400 different species of sharks and answered the public’s questions.

Some of the potential causes for the sharks’ presence could be a sign of a healthier ocean as well as a surplus of new food sources or warmer waters.

“The ocean is healthier than it has been in decades,” Serpa said. “Great white sharks have been protected for almost 25 years so seeing more of them is a positive sign.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The city’s next Science Night will be on Thursday, August 10, in the Dana Point Community Center.

—Kristina Pritchett

City Council Hires City Manager THE LATEST: Mark Denny, the deputy city manager, was named Dana Point’s new city manager on Tuesday, July 18.

His contract was approved by a 5-0 vote during the meeting. However, city attorney Patrick Munoz said the council voted 3-2 in favor of hiring Denny for the role.

Mayor Debra Lewis and Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt voted against the action.

Wyatt said he thought there was a number of candidates that he felt fulfilled the role’s qualifications.

“I felt we had better candidates than Mr. Denny to make the offer to,” Wyatt said.

“I worked with Mr. Denny on a number of items up to date with very positive results and I will do a 110 percent [job] to make sure he is wildly successful.”

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

Lewis said she voted no because she felt the hiring process was not what was agreed upon.

“It is my impression being privy to the process and debates in closed session that a candidate from outside the city was not likely to be hired,” Lewis said. “I firmly believe that the integrity of the process and the council’s decision making must be trustworthy, particularly when the decision occurs behind closed doors.”

She added that she too plans to work closely with Denny to ensure his success.

“I am grateful to the City Council for this opportunity,” Denny said in a statement. “It is a great city, with great people, and I am excited about what the future holds.”

Mike Killebrew has been acting city manager since November 2016 when long-time city manager Doug Chotkevys announced his resignation in-lieu of termination.

A few weeks before Chotkevys left his position, the role of deputy city manager was created during a reorganization of staff.

A week later, the city announced Denny, who previously was the Orange County Chief Operating Officer, would fill that role.

Denny has also served as the Director of OC Parks and served as the Interim Director of the Dana Point Harbor department for a short period of time.

The application process closed on March 17 and since then, Council had been in closed session meetings to find a candidate.

Denny has a four-year contract for the City Manager position and the base salary, exclusive of benefits, is $225,000 per year. The city is also providing Denny a vehicle, which the city will maintain and pay for the liability, property damage and comprehensive insurance as well as pay for the automobile purchase, gas, operation, maintenance, repair or replacement of the city provided vehicle. According to the contract, at the end of its existing life, Denny will receive an automobile allowance rather than be provided a vehicle.

WHAT’S NEXT: During Denny’s first day of work, on Wednesday, July 19, he announced he has appointed City Engineer Matt Sinacori to Public Works Director.

According to city officials, $241,000 in gross savings will occur due to Denny taking the city manager role and the deputy city manager role will not be filled. —KP

Council Approves to Extend Opticos Contract for Doheny Village Work THE LATEST: The City Council approved to extend Opticos Design, Inc.’s contract for another year during the Tuesday, July 18, meeting.

During the meeting there was confusion about whether the contract authorized the

Claire, Madilyn and Haylee look at some of the items Jim Serpa, a former Doheny State Beach Park Ranger, brought in during the city’s Science Night on Thursday, July 13. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

city to spend more money on work regarding Doheny Village. City staff clarified there is some work left in the contract, but it was part of the scope originally discussed.

Opticos was retained by the city to prepare the form based code and to implement the vision and goals identified through the public participation led by Roma Design Group. The contract expired on June 30.

According to the staff report, the project has been delayed due to requests for additional information related to the road diet/ round abouts and parking. The requests resulted in additional discussions with public agencies and consultants as well as the recent parking workshop.

The extension, according to the report, does not change the scope of work and does not require additional funds, it simply extends the term of the agreement.

Council amended their approval to allow the provision for City Council to approve any further expenditures of funding remaining on the contract.

A few residents voiced their opposition to additional spending on the project.

“I don’t want to spend the money in the contract until we know it’s useful for us,” said Mayor Pro-Tem Wyatt.

WHAT’S NEXT: Richard Wilson of Richard Wilson Transportation Consultant is scheduled to speak at City Council next month.—KP

City Council Discusses Survey Questions at Special Meeting THE LATEST: The first steps into creating a city survey is underway.

During a special City Council meeting on Wednesday, July 12, specific topics to

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place in the survey were discussed.

Council previously approved a contract agreement with Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates (FM3) to create and conduct a survey regarding the city’s services, events and more prior to the city creating a strategic plan.

In 2009, the city conducted a telephone survey to gauge the community’s input on the value of services provided by the city. This time around, the surveys will be through email and phone calls, and could take up to 20 minutes.

Some topics discussed during the meeting included development throughout the city, parking, public safety and more.

WHAT’S NEXT: FM3 will finalize the survey questions before the city reviews the final draft and provides feedback.

City officials hope to begin the survey by Tuesday, Aug. 1, and have final results to the Council by Tuesday, Sept. 19.—KP

Homeless Task Force to Meet on July 26 THE LATEST: The city’s Homeless Task Force will be meeting next week to discuss a few items on the agenda.

On the Wednesday, July 26, agenda, some items include an update from the county, a report from Mercy House regarding an outreach update and housing placement strategy, a full-time outreach coordinator proposal, the community impact of feed from police services and an update from city staff.

WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting will be at 1 p.m. in the city’s public works conference room. The agenda can be found in the online version of the story at www.danapointtimes.com. —KP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Dana Point VFW Celebrates Member’s 101st Birthday Members of the Dana Point VFW Post 9934 celebrated one of their own during a 101st birthday party recently.

John “Norm” Reed, a WWII Navy veteran, celebrated his 101st birthday on July 5. The event was hosted by Robin Trexler and Tameraa Berg.

The event was held at the Sea Country Senior and Community Center. The VFW Post’s Colorguard led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance and the group sang “America the Beautiful.”

Reed served in the South Pacific including Guadalcanal, Tarawa and Iwa Jima. His job included overseeing construction and operations.

VFW members said there were 80 people in attendance.

Dana Point Woman to be Honored by Girl Scouts of Orange County A Dana Point resident will be one of six women to be recognized by the Girl Scouts of Orange County during their 2017 Celebrate Leadership event in November.

Susan B. Parks, the CEO of Orange County United Way, will be recognized for being a female trailblazer and is a Girl Scout alumna.

According to a press release, the women show what it means to be a G.I.R.L (Gogetter, innovator, risk-taker and leader).

SATURDAY, JULY 22

Farmers’ Market

9 a.m. There will be fresh produce and treats for sale at the Farmers Market.

La Plaza Park. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. 949.279.3122.

MONDAY, JULY 24

Planning Commission Meeting

6 p.m. Members of the Planning Commission will meet in Council Chambers.

Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

John “Norm” Reed, a WWII Navy veteran, celebrated his 101st birthday with members of the Dana Point VFW Post 9934. Photo: Courtesy

The event will be on Nov. 10 at the Island Hotel in Newport Beach.

“I am deeply honored to announce this year’s roster of extraordinary honorees,” shared Nancy Nygren, CEO of Girl Scouts of Orange County. “They embody the very essence of Girl Scouts’ mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place and are outstanding role models to our next generation of female leadership.”

The event will host more than 400 of Orange County’s community and business leaders for an evening of inspiration, dinner, auctions and surprises. Funds raised will support leadership development programs for almost 21,000 Orange County Girl Scouts and more than 10,000 Girl Scout volunteers, according to the statement.

DP Sheriff’s Business Beat News from Dana Point’s Blotter What Happened to the Blotter?

On June 12, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department officially stopped including detailed summaries for each of its blotter entries. The type of calls the department receives is still available as well as the date, time and location of the call. The Sheriff’s Department announced they will be transitioning into an interactive crime map, called Crime Mapping, which will provide residents the type of call, date, time and approximate location.The map is currently in the works, and could be available in the coming months. To read the full story about the blotter, visit www.danapointtimes.com.

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

CUSD Offers Free and Reduced-Cost Lunches According to a press release from Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD), schools are serving lunches to students every school day under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Effective July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018, children are eligible for free or reduced-price meals if the household income is less than or equal to the federal guidelines. Visit this article on www.danapointtimes.com for a matrix of the federal guidelines.

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

TUESDAY, JULY 25

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

Ocean Water Quality Subcommittee Meeting

3 p.m. Members of the subcommittee will meet in Suite 212. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

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.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26

business community COMPILED BY ERIN McFAUL

NEW CLASSES JACK RANDALL PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO 34102 Street of the Violet Lantern Dana Point, 949.248.5198. www.jackrandallphotography.com Photographer Jack Randall will open his Dana Point studio to children in the community, free-of-charge.

Randall said his introductory photography class caters to students between the ages of 8 to 15 and explains the elements of what makes a good photo.

“It just came to my heart to do a class

for kids at no charge, just giving back to the community,” Randall said.

While Randall asks students to bring a cellphone or camera, the class focuses less on camera functions and more on the concept of light. Students will walk around the studio and discover which locations are best suited for pictures.

With 30 years of photography experience, 25 of which he spent in Dana Point, Randall brings with him his knowledge of the land. From the pristine beaches to the grassy parks, Randall said the community is an ideal spot for a photographer.

“It teaches you to see beauty and there are so many children with an interest in photography nowadays that I think it would be a great thing to help them hone their skills,” Randall said.

The class is scheduled to begin on July 29. If students are interested they should contact Nikki Gates at Jack Randall Photography for more information.

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Homeless Task Force Meeting

1 p.m. Members of the Task Force will meet in the city’s Public Works conference room. Dana Point City Hall.

33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

Financial Review Committee

4 p.m. Members of the Committee will meet in Council Chambers. Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

THURSDAY, JULY 27

Coastmasters (Toastmaster’s)

7-8:30 a.m. Join the members of the Coastmasters every Thursday to improve your speaking and leadership skills. 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. Adjacent to Baby Beach at OC Sailing & Events Center. www.coastmasters.org. www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

REGARDING THE CITY’S BUDGET

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

PENNY MANYARD, Dana Point

HOW TO REACH US

I wanted to write this after reading the recent letters regarding the city of Dana Point’s budget including remarks on spending. I believe these opinions illustrate a total misunderstanding of city budgeting. Taking courses in nonprofit management and economics, as I have, would be helpful before more misinformation is provided to our community.

Anyone who has ever taken out a mortgage loan has engaged in “deficit spending” for their lifestyle. The city of Dana Point, as far I know, hasn’t taken out any loans in its history.

There should be no cuts in services, only increases, as with Police Services. Increases in services would be for residents, but would also increase tourism and Tourism Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue.

Another way to increase revenue is by completing all projects on the board including the Lantern District and the Doheny Village plan and to bring on new projects as revenue sources. The new projects won’t be so easy to attract as we now have, in effect, ballot zoning which is discouraging to anyone who seeks to finance new projects. We want to keep tourists here in Dana Point rather than having them spend their dollars in Laguna, Newport and beyond.

It’s actually quite simple, you increase revenue from the largest revenue source and everyone benefits. No tax increases for residents but improved services for all.

CITY EDITOR Kristina Pritchett, 949.388.7700, x113 kpritchett@picketfencemedia.com

IN RESPONSE TO PLANNING COMMISSION'S GREEN LIGHT ON VIA VERDE JANE RYAN, Capistrano Beach

The Planning Commission's approval of a high density duplex project on Via Verde in Capistrano Beach is a slap in the face to the residents living here and the neighborhood as a whole. Thanks for the thoughtful decision to allow the building of another over-sized structure. It's just what we need—more cars and traffic to add to our charming beach community. We don't need a project of this scale on a street that already suffers from too many cars and not enough parking.

The commission claims there will be enough parking for the residents but I find that hard to believe because the plan calls for four large units. I predict each family could have two or three cars and if you do the math, that's a possibility of eight to 12 cars. There is no way these residents will be able to fit all their cars in their driveway. This is a bad idea.

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

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 > Rachael Mattice City Editor, DP Times > Kristina Pritchett City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

The city of Dana Point’s annual firework show took place in Doheny State Beach on Tuesday, July 4, but fireworks could be seen across the city. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Beware citizens of Capistrano Beach, this is what happens when you aren't watching, you get a mega development that negatively impacts your street. There goes the neighborhood.

REGARDING BUDGET CUTS TO EVENTS, FIREWORKS JOE THOMPSON, Capistrano Beach

I’m a 28-year resident (homeowner) of Capistrano Beach and absolutely love our town. I’ve raised my two girls here and wouldn’t live anywhere else. Other than living near the beach, one of the things I like most about Dana Point are the fun, family-oriented activities sponsored by the City such as the terrific fireworks display every Fourth of July (this year was the best show ever), the Easter egg hunt and the summer movies and concerts in the parks. These are tangible things that I support using the property taxes I pay as they bring the community together.

Myself, as well as just about every

neighbor I speak with, agrees that we would rather not have a reduction in these activities due to budget cuts as opposed to a reduction in weekly street sweeping services. Our streets in Capo Beach do not need sweeping every week as they just don’t get that dirty. As such, is street sweeping in the Palisades area of Capo Beach just a guise to bring in funding from parking tickets? Further, I’m sure there are other areas where the city could save revenue other than reducing these activities and shortening the fireworks display by a third. What about ticketing the many residents that leave their trash cans in public view? The city could make revenue while beautifying our neighborhoods.

Further, besides the $300,000 settlement, I don’t know the amount of legal fees the city has spent trying to fight the Coastal Commission regarding the access gate at Strands Beach, but I’m sure it was enough to cover the eight minutes we’re losing for next year’s Fourth of July fireworks show.

(Cont. on page 6)

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City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho 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 Erin McFaul Danny Ritz

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 29. 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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www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: Council’s Corner by Mayor Debra Lewis

Better Together: Achieving Our Collective Goals

T

his city faces serious issues that cannot be allowed to become intractable problems. Our challenges are real.

Together, we will be asked to make tough choices in the months and years ahead.

For instance, by 2020, operating expenses are projected to exceed operating revenue by $1,648,000. Plugging this large structural budget hole merely allows the city to do little more than tread water, ending fiscal year 2020 with neither an operating deficit nor surplus. This means we will not accumulate savings for those projects we want to undertake. After 2020, many more hundreds of thousands of dollars in annual shortfalls are expected.

Another challenge we face is maintaining Dana Point’s superior quality of life.

Many residents express anxiety about their neighborhoods. Safety is becoming an issue. Petty crime appears to be on the rise.

Growth is always tricky. We want to develop areas in the city such as the Lantern District and Doheny Village. How do we do that without losing our desirable small beach town identity? What development is right for Dana Point?

These are difficult issues. But we have weathered difficulties before and we will do so again.

However, if we are to successfully deal with the uncertainties that lie ahead, we must choose unity over conflict and discord. Every day, the Letters to the Editor and online comments in our local paper or posts on social media are filled with gratuitous personal swipes aimed at residents who have done nothing more than get involved in an effort to better their community. Whole neighborhoods are singled out for scorn. Resident groups are targeted because their mission is to better their surroundings, which ultimately benefits the whole city.

Those who give their time to improve

their neighborhoods or join committees to improve life in our city are to be commended, not attacked. Volunteers, who demonstrate their commitment and passion to work for the betterment of others, are an important resource to be encouraged, not vilified.

We must put an end to petty grievances, move beyond the injurious recriminations over past battles lost and reject the COUNCIL'S needless divisiveness CORNER that saps our collective

By Mayor strength. We all have far Debra Lewis too much invested in the health and well-being of our city to allow those who hurl personal insults against residents and pit neighbor against neighbor to tear us apart.

To be sure, it is essential to be able to freely express diverse opinions and points of view. It is appropriate to hold elected officials accountable. What is equally important, however, is the manner in which our disagreements are communicated to one another. We must not lose sight of the fact that our collective goal is and always has been the betterment of Dana Point. We may have different ideas of what that means. We may have different approaches to solving problems. But what brings us together is so much stronger than our differences.

No matter where in this city we choose to live, no matter what our part of town is called, we are all one Dana Point. We are greater together than the sum of our parts. By working together, we will successfully meet any challenge. DP

Letters to the Editor (Cont. from page 5)

long it takes. Recently, “Anvil,” a long-time resident of the shelter who was adored by the volunteers, went home. It was sad to see him go. He is missed, but it is wonderful that he has a loving forever home.

I would like to take this opportunity to mention that Pet Project Foundation, the fundraising and volunteer arm of the animal shelter, will be holding its Country and Western fundraiser at Bella Collina Golf Club on Sept. 24. Tickets will be sold on the website soon, www.petprojectfoundation.org. Thank you all in advance.

LET’S KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK KAY LEHMACHER, San Clemente

I would like to thank the city of San Clemente, Mayor Kathy Ward and my fellow volunteers for the honor of awarding me Volunteer of the Year 2017.

Many people are unaware of the San Clemente-Dana Point Pro-Hume Animal Shelter, and I would like to encourage you all to go and see the lovely facility.

If you are having any thoughts of adding a pet to your family, please consider adoption. We have wonderful animals waiting for a loving home. All animals are given loving care until they are adopted, no matter how Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

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

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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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: An Artsy Ghost Story

EDITOR’S PICK

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

Friday | 21

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

C

LIVE MUSIC: PHIL VANDERMOST 6-9 p.m. Phil Vandermost will play a mix of music ranging in styles from Cold Play to Bob Marley. JC Beans. 34114 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

INSOMNIA WORKSHOP WITH SOUND HEALING AND YOGA NIDRA 7 p.m. Join Alan Hostetter for an evening of blissful relaxation through a 90-minute workshop that includes yoga nidra, aroma therapy, sound healing with didgeridoos, crystal singing bowls and more. Preregistration is $20, registration at the door is $30. iHeartYoga. 64485 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.com.

LIVE THEATER: ‘HAIRSPRAY’ 7:30 p.m. Heroine Tracy Turnblad twists her way into Baltimore’s stardom while fighting for integration on a local TV show.

The show is held at various times until July 30. Tickets range in price depending on seat. The Laguna Playhouse. 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach.

949.497.2787. www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

LIVE THEATER: ‘ROBIN HOOD’ 7:30 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse brings the adventures of Robin Hood to life at San Juan Capistrano’s Historic Town Center Park. Watch as the story’s beloved characters fight to stop the evil Prince John and the nefarious Sheriff of Nottingham.

See Maid Marian capture Robin’s heart as the history of England comes to San Juan Capistrano. Attendees will be treated to sword fights and an archery contest. The show runs through July 30. $15. Historic Town Center Park. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

LIVE THEATER: ‘THE MUSIC MAN’ 7:30 p.m. The fully-staged production of the The Music Man follows a fast-talking traveling salesman as he cons the people of River City into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the Librarian. The show is free and continues on Saturday, July 22 at 7:30 p.m. Reserved seating is available at $20 per person, presale only. Saddleback College, Outsider Upper Campus Quad.

28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo.

949.582.4500. www.saddleback.edu.

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

Photo: Alex Paris

SATURDAY, JULY 22: TALL SHIP ADVENTURE SAILS 1-4 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute aboard the Spirit of Dana Point for an adventure. Help the crew raise the sail, handle lines and steer the ship, or simply sit back and relax. Cost is $60 for adults, $40 for children 4-12 and $50 for seniors. Tickets includes admission to the Institute. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

headlands@cox.net. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. 949.248.3527.

LIVE MUSIC: WILFAX 8-11 p.m. Listen to Wilfax perform live.

OverVue Lounge, Laguna Cliffs Marriot. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point.

949.661.5000. www.lagunacliffs.com.

MEET THE AUTHOR: STORY TIME 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Laura Knight, author of Spot: A sea pups survival guide will be reading her book at the Ocean Institute. A craft activity is planned after the reading.

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

Saturday | 22 GROWING CITRUS IN THE HOME GARDEN 9 a.m. Participants will learn how to grow juicy citrus and hear advice from the experts. Armstrong Garden Center. 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

CREATING AND CARING FOR YOUR NATIVE GARDEN 9:30 a.m. Colin Dunleavy will share tips on how to create and care for native gardens.

He will focus on initial site prep, planting techniques and the establishment and care of plants. He will also discuss native plants that work well in small gardens. Tree of Life Nursery. 33201 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

FRIENDS OF THE DANA POINT HEADLANDS CHILDREN’S PROGRAM 10 a.m. The Friends of the Dana Point Headlands invites families to join the children’s program at the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. The program is held the fourth Saturday of the month. Kids will learn about the natural world in a hands-on way. For reservations, email friendsofthe-

DANA POINT SYMPHONY 4-7 p.m. The Dana Point Symphony will hold a performance alongside students from the Montecito International Music Festival Orchestra. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students, senior and military. Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church.

30071 Ivy Glenn Drive, Laguna Niguel. www.danapointsymphony.com.

asey Affleck and Rooney Mara appear to be at the top of the arthouse cinema scene these days. Affleck won an Oscar for Kenneth Lonergan’s Manchester by the Sea this past year, and Mara is working with nearly every respected director who comes her way. The two have reunited with filmmaker David Lowery for their second film together since Ain’t Them Bodies Saints (2013). A Ghost Story is not a horror film or Casper-like sentimentality, but rather a nice bit of celluloid eye candy.

Affleck plays a local musician, who is credited as just “C,” and lives in a small suburban house in Texas with his wife, played by Mara, who is credited as “M.” The two have a pretty typical, but content married life in the quiet neighborhood, until C is killed in a car crash right outside the house. From then on, C re-appears as a ghost—but a ghost that is a white bedsheet with two peepholes—following M around the house, unknown to human eyes.

While I had reservations on Lowery’s earlier film taking too many cues and inspirations from Terrence Malick, here the newer director really finds a fresh light. In many ways, A Ghost Story is Lowery’s own The Tree of Life (2011), but with his own flare and touch coming through fluidly. The whole film can be viewed as almost an extended dream sequence, like Cameron Crowe’s Vanilla Sky (2001), but without any expository dialogue or backstory. For a mellow atmosphere and pretty aesthetics, A Ghost Story is for artsy film fans. DP

LIVE MUSIC: MARTY MCINTOSH 6-9 p.m. Marty McIntosh is a traveling musician who will perform some country, classic rock and modern hits. JC Beans.

34114 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

LIVE MUSIC: WILL & GARY 8-11 p.m. Listen to Will & Gary perform live. OverVue Lounge, Laguna Cliffs Marriot. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point.

949.661.5000. www.lagunacliffs.com.

LIVE MUSIC HARBOR CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Every Saturday join Dana Wharf (Cont. on page 8)

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Rooney Mara as M and Casey Affleck as C. Photo: Bret Curry. Courtesy of A24

www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 7) for a live music harbor cruise. Tickets are $25 per person, and the event is for 21 and older. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

lege are welcome. 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. For more information, contact Teri Steel at coa.teristeel@gmail.com.

Sunday | 23

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.

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.

OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Join Ocean Institute scientists on a whale watching cruise aboard the R/V Sea Explorer to view wildlife that make the coastal waters of Dana Point their home. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and active-duty military and $25 for children. Members receive a 10 percent discount. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

BEND & BREW 11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company’s tasting room in San Clemente. It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. Admission is $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAYS Noon-3 p.m. Listen to live performances every Sunday. Stillwater Spirits and Sounds.

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

DANA POINT SUMMER CONCERT 2:30-6 p.m. Every Sunday through July enjoy music from a variety of bands. This week’s bands are Saturday Night Fever: a tribute to the BeeGees and ABBAFAB: an Abba Tribute. There will be food and beverages for sale. A free shuttle service will be provided from Dana Hills High School from 1-7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Sea Terrace Park. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

Monday | 24 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

COA IMPROV & COMEDY CLUB 6:30-8 p.m. Community Outreach Alliance is partnering with San Clemente High School Theatre Arts Improv Team to keep teens laughing all summer long. The event is every Monday evening. The event is free and kids middle-school through colDana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

ON THE MENU

KALUA PORK BARBECUE FROM HAPA J’S

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Tuesday | 25

SUNSHINE READERS STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. The Sunshine Readers will entertain children of all ages during the hour-long storytime. Dana Point Public Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday.

Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

KARAOKE AT GOODY’S 8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente.

206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Wednesday | 26 CASA KIDS: STORY TIME 10 a.m. Every Wednesday children ages 1-7 can enjoy listening to a picture book being read in the Casa Romantica courtyard.

There is a question and answer segment and a dance after each book. Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

he key ingredient in any one of Hapa J’s most popular dishes, the Kalua Pork Barbecue, is regularly served in more than 100 dishes per day, according to the restaurant staff. Commonly seen topping mountains of Hapa’s Fries (Man Style, of course) or piles of Hapa’s Nachos, this carnivorous delight is slow-roasted for hours on-site after a long soak in a simple marinade including only one special ingredient that owner Justin Shea “just can’t reveal.”

“Hapa” means “of mixed descent” in Hawaiian, and Hapa J’s is a true fusion restaurant. Combining Korean barbecue with traditional Hawaiian, alongside elements of Mexican and American comfort foods, it’s no wonder Hapa J’s supports a diverse following.

“We’re evolving and we try to give people what they want, and lots of it,” Shea said. “A lot of our best dishes were inspired by our customers.”

Having met while working in Hawaii, Shea and his chef brought Hapa J’s to San Clemente almost a decade ago and it has been a

and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.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.

Thursday | 27

thriving community presence ever since.

Hapa J’s has a number of specials to enjoy.

Island Happy Hour offers $2 off Mai Tai’s and $4 drafts from 3-6 p.m. on Wednesday-Friday. On Taco Tuesdays, Hapa J’s is closed for lunch but offers Island-inspired tacos inside handmade corn tortillas and $2.50 PBR’s from 4:30-9:30 p.m. A catering menu is also available. —Photo and text by Danny Ritz Hapa J’s 2016 S El Camino Real, San Clemente, CA, 92672 949.276.6657, www.hapajs.com

YOGA AT MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 5:30 p.m. Head to the Mission to do some yoga with iHeartYoga. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., yoga will take place from 6-7 p.m.

Admission is $15. Mission San Juan Capistrano. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. www.iheartyoga.com.

BEACH CONCERT 6 p.m. Head down to the beach and enjoy music and surf. This week’s band is Common Sense. Fisherman’s will provide a barbecue meal for $8. The concert is part of the city of San Clemente’s beach concert series. 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

ABBIT THE AVERAGE 11 a.m. Children of all ages can enjoy a variety show by Abbit the Average. There will be comedy, magic and juggling. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

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. Every Thursday. No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

CASA COOL: 3RD DEGREE BLUES 7 p.m. The Casa welcomes back the 3rd Degree Blues band to the series.

The musicians have studied and played blues music professionally. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $20 for members. Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

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.

DESIGN A BEACH FAIRY OR DINOSAUR GARDEN 1 p.m. Children can design their own beach fairy or dinosaur garden at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

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.

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.

YAPPY HOUR 5-8 p.m. Head to Yappy Hour with your four-legged friend to enjoy treats for the dogs and wine for the adults. Proceeds from the event benefit the Veterans Initiative of Canine Compassions for Independence. Yappy Hour is held the fourth Thursday of the month from May through October. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.

One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point.

LIVE MUSIC: BLACK CAT BONE 7-10:30 p.m. Listen to music from Black Cat Bone at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. There will be local

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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.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Making the Most of this Summer

the Doheny State Beach Visitor Center/Interpretive Center. Inside guests can check out the tide pool, ocean environment tanks, displays and more. The Center is open Wednesday through Sundays 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Every Thursday at 1 p.m. there are fish feedings with the park’s aquarist.

11. After the beach, grab some grub at one of the many area eateries. Sip wine and beer on the sand at Boneyard Beach Café in Doheny State Beach for tasty food with a view. Across the way, in Capo Beach, there are plenty of dining options including Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant, Sunsets Bar & Grill and Good Choice Sushi by the Sea.

Sixteen ideas for a Dana Point staycation

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

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t’s the middle of July and kids have been out of school for a month, colleagues return to the office sun kissed and smiling and friends have been posting their vacation photos across social media.

Yet, current schedules, projects, summer camps and budgets hold priority over sipping on sugary drinks on a tropical island or hiking Mount Whitney. Sound familiar?

Luckily, Dana Point is a crown jewel vacation destination in itself with generous options for those looking to take a staycation.

Below are a few ideas for residents looking to stay put and off Interstate 5 this summer.

1. Deciding where to eat could be the biggest dilemma while planning a staycation. With restaurants like Luciana’s, Gen Kai, StillWater Spirits & Sounds, Luxe’s Martini Bar & Restaurant, options are endless in the Lantern District. Most of the restaurants along Pacific Coast Highway offer outdoor dining, so take advantage of the warm breezes and scenic views.

2. Whether it’s a casual stroll or a walk with a purpose, The Dana Point Headlands offers one-of-a-kind views as well as an education. Located at the top of the trail, the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center offers interactive exhibits to learn about a variety of topics, including which animals may be seen in the area. It’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The first three Saturdays of the month, docents lead themed walks that are free and open to the public, and there’s a children’s event once a month.

12. Want to enjoy live music while dining out? Multiple restaurants in the Monarch Beach area provide live entertainment while serving up food. Some options include Brio Tuscany Grill and Salt Creek Grille.

For a day of sun and fun, Dana Point’s beaches have an array of activities for everyone. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

3. On Saturdays, head out to the farmers’ market at La Plaza Park to grab fresh produce and delicious treats. In addition, there is a craft fair the first Saturday of every month.

4. If creativity is flowing through the long daylight hours, many local businesses offer classes to expand one’s intellect and skill set. Kenny’s Music lessons can train the next Buddy Guy, Nitra Strauss, Steve Harris, Jennifer Hudson or Ginger Baker.

5. Into fitness, mind and body? Check out iHeartYoga’s jam packed schedule of yoga classes. Start the day at a donationbased class in Lantern Bay Park. Or, if evening options are more realistic for those sleeping in, they offer Sunset Yoga in the Park Monday through Wednesday. Visit their studio in the harbor for a variety of yoga classes.

6. When some think of Dana Point, they think of the water. In the Harbor, there are a few businesses that offer different types of activities. Get a new perspective on local scenery with Dana Point Parasail or stick

Sudoku

8. If feeling lazy, people watchers can sit back and observe paddleboarders, kayakers and boats sail by near the open entrance of the Harbor. There are plenty of seating options available across the bridge on Island Way with grills, tables and grassy spots for picnics.

9. Head down to the beach. Doheny State Beach is the perfect spot to pick up a surfboard for the first time. Whether it’s surfing, sunbathing, reading the newest bestseller, working off lunchtime tacos in a game of beach volleyball, renting a bike or building a campfire, Dana Point’s beaches offer a plethora of ways to enjoy a day off.

10. While in Doheny State Beach, head to

14. Throughout the week, the Dana Point Library provides free activities for kids.

From events like Read to a Dog, story time and more, little ones can be entertained with interactive events.

15. Along with Monarch Beach Resort’s restaurants and golf course, the Miraval Life in Balance Spa has more than a dozen massage and facial treatments for those looking to destress.

16. Head to Sea Terrace Park, Sea Canyon Park or Salt Creek Beach Park for a day of fun. Throw a Frisbee, play guitar, bring a sketchpad or bring a blanket for stargazing.

Sea Terrace hosts the city’s concerts in the park every Sunday while Salt Creek has two concerts in August.

The city of Dana Point offers a free trolley service to get residents and visitors around the city. For more information about the trolley, the route map and more, visit www. danapointtimes.com. DP

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Last week’s solution:

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

7. Hop aboard a tall ship at the Ocean Institute. The ocean education organization offers ocean science and maritime history programs with interactive exhibits. They also offer sails on multiple vessels to experience the ocean first hand.

Pet of the Week: Ryan

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

close to the water with West Wind Sailing, Dana Point JetSki & Kayak Center or Capo Beach Waterfront.

13. Local parks provide the perfect backdrop to any occasion, and are also free of cost. Grassy picnic areas like Pines Park is perfect for games and frolicking kids as well as a community of dog owners.

See the solution in next week’s issue.

yan, a 7-month-old, is a shy little guy who just wants to be given a chance. Though he can be a tad timid, he just loves to be petted and gets along well with other kitties. Ryan would do best in a quiet home with a feline friend he can snuggle with.

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

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Ryan. Photo: Courtesy

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING GUEST OPINION: Book Talk by Dan DeNeve

A Look into the Past

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book that received much attention last year was The Devil’s Diary: Alfred Rosenberg and the Stolen Secrets of the Third Reich by Robert Wittman and David Kinney.

The book chronicles the diary of Alfred Rosenberg and how it eventually wound up in the United States Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. Unfortunately, while the book does a nice job of tracing the diary’s history, 75 percent of the book is actually about Rosenberg and his rise to power in the Nazi party. While I understand that Rosenberg makes for a better BOOK TALK

By Dan DeNeve story than his diary, the authors should have laid that out at the beginning. The title gives one the impression that this book is about the diary, when Wittman and Kinney spend much of their efforts

tracing Rosenberg’s life.

Furthermore, we learn more about Robert Kempner, a Jewish lawyer who fled Germany, and later had possession of Rosenberg’s diary. Kempner became part of the American prosecution team in Nuremberg from 1945-1949.

Overall, this book is an interesting read and may well appeal to World War II readers looking for more than just battles and strategies. The library does own a copy.

The Seaside Book Club meets at the Dana Point Library every fourth Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Registration is not required. For a list of featured titles, call the library at 949.496.5517. Copies of the current title are available at the library service desk. DP

Tracey Frank, owner of Club Literacy, uses her passion for reading and writing to help children.

Photo: Kristina Pritchett

Dana Point Resident uses Passion for Literacy to Help Children

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

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT, DANA POINT TIMES

LOCALS ONLY

BUSINESS LISTINGS ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

949.485.4979, info@bodymindspiritiop.com, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

ASSISTED LIVING HOME FOR ELDERLY

Assisted Senior Home

949.248.9415, www.assistedseniorhome.com

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto

34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Represent.xyz

949.274.0590, www.represent.xyz

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

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INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers

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

State Farm/Ted Bowersox

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

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine

34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

PET BOUTIQUE

Naked Dog Bistro

424 Forest Ave., LB, 949.715.9900, www.NakedDogBistro.com

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com

Bill Metzger Plumbing

1001 Calle Recodo, San Clemente, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com

SPECIALTY BEAUTY

Amazing Lash Studio

32932 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 9, 949.484.7676, www.AmazingLashStudio.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction

877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

racey Frank, a Dana Point resident, has been using her passion for reading and writing to help children for more than 20 years with her business Club Literacy.

Club Literacy is an educational center dedicated to developing the reading and writing of children in pre-K through fourth grade, integrating Frank’s research-based practices and strategies.

“Essentially, I wanted to create a really cool learning environment where children felt safe, and promoted literacy,” Frank said.

After she won a scholarship to Australia, which allowed her to see how teachers worked there, she was inspired to do something on her own.

“I thought about starting a school,” Frank said.

Rather than a school, she opened Club Literacy.

She started the business in Newport Beach, where she was teaching first grade at the time. After she had her two children, she relocated the business to Dana Point.

“I wanted to be closer to home, to do more with my children and be more involved with their school,” Frank said.

Now, after five summers in the Dana Point location, Frank is holding an assortment of classes throughout the entire year.

She uses ABC books, fairy tales, poems and parodies to help the younger readers learn their ABC’s. Frank holds classes for additional reading readiness skills for kindergartners, classes that incorporate puppetry, cooking, character dress-up and more.

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But, it’s not all about reading. Frank holds classes that offer multisensory activities to help kids with numbers. They use humorous tales, poems and more to provide a unique and kid-friendly problem solving opportunities. Throughout the year, they also hold special events to celebrate authors and offer free story times.

Frank also offers a class where children are able to create a published piece of work.

“At the end of the year, they publish a book,” Frank said. “They write a rough draft, I edit it and then we send it off to the publisher.”

She explains the hardback picture books are work that the children have a lot of ownership in.

“When they’re printed, we have a little party and they get dressed up and read their books,” Frank said.

Looking ahead, Frank said she’s excited to expand creatively and connect with networks of authors and organizations.

“We engage them with education about authors or illustrators and they understand it,” Frank said.

She explained if it’s an author’s birthday, she might pull their picture up on her phone and they’ll discuss the author and read some of their work.

Outside of the classroom, Frank is part of a program called the Book Fairies. She takes books and places them throughout the city with hopes of children reading and sharing them.

For more information about Frank and registration for Club Literacy, visit www. clubliteracy.com. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

949 Volleyball Earns Silver Medal at Jr. Nationals DANA POINT TIMES

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he 949 Volleyball Club’s 18’s boys team’s run through the USA Volleyball Junior National Championship tournament came down to the final set on July 4.

The local club team, which draws players from Dana Point, was in a closely contested game against Balboa Bay Volleyball Club in the championship match in Columbus, Ohio. The two teams each split the first two sets, but BBVC bested 949 in the decisive third to claim the prestigious gold medal.

The 949 18’s team’s second-place effort at the high-profile tournament capped off a spectacular week of competition, which saw them advance out of pool play in the tournament’s gold division and go unde-

The 949 Volleyball Club’s 18’s boys team finished second in the gold division at the USA Volleyball Junior National Championships. Photo: Courtesy

feated until the championship match.

The 949 18’s team includes: Thomas DeStefano, Sean Carroll, Bryce Curtis, Jess Hunt, Kyler Presho, Tyler Flood, Charlie Siragusa, Tanner Petchul, John Minsberg and Jacob Pelletier. The team is coached by Kelly Caldwell, James Anderson and Mark Presho. DP

Dana Point’s Rocco DiFrancesco will compete at USA Baseball’s National Team Identification Series in North Carolina next month. Photo: Courtesy

DP Locals Qualify for USA Baseball Showcase Event DANA POINT TIMES

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wo local youth baseball players, Trent Caraway and Rocco DiFrancesco, have proven to be can’t-miss talents in the Southern California region.

The two players, who were both former Dana Point Youth Baseball All-Stars, were recently selected to travel to Cary, North Carolina to take part in USA Baseball’s National Team Identification Series (NTIS).

The showcase event brings hundreds of ballplayers from 16 different regions across the country together for a weekend of competitive action.

Caraway was selected as a 13-and-under player and DiFrancesco will compete in the 14U division. Both players will represent the Southern California-Hawaii region.

While at the NTIS, the two players will have a chance at catching the eyes of USA Baseball coaching staff in hopes of being named to an official national team.

Caraway, who will be an eighth grader at Marco Forster Middle School in the fall, is a shortstop. He qualified for the NTIS after advancing through a showcase event held at UC San Diego on June 29. He will travel to North Carolina and compete from Aug. 9 to Aug. 12.

DiFrancesco, a catcher, impressed the USA Baseball staff at a showcase at Cal State Fullerton on July 12. DiFrancesco Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

The Dana Point Recreation Department’s adult sports league summer season is in full swing.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

Recreation League Roundup

Trent Caraway will head to North Carolina to compete as a 13U player in USA Baseball’s NTIS. Photo: Courtesy

will be an incoming freshman at Dana Hills High School in the fall. His scheduled showcase in North Carolina begins Aug. 24.

During their regional showcases, Caraway and DiFrancesco had to display their talents in events like the 60-yard dash, fielding and hitting drills, and take part in simulated games.

Caraway and DiFrancesco were teammates together in DPYB and while playing for the Saddleback Cowboys developmental team. The duo were part of the Cowboys’ first-place finishes at the TCS Arizona Spring Championships, AAU SoCal World Series, AAU Junior Olympics and the Cooperstown All-Star Village Champions tournament last season. DP

DANA POINT TIMES

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he City of Dana Point’s adult recreation league summer season is in full swing. This week marked the second full week of action, and teams are already starting to hit their stride. Here is a breakdown of this week’s games.

Monday Kickball • The District Salon and Drinkers with a Kicking Problem both notched wins this week and improved to 2-0 in the season. After falling short last week, Swallow’s Inn picked up a 6-3 win over Pitch Please.

Monday Softball • The Monday softball slate was full of runaway victories this week, as The Gimps, Dead Pull and Feel the Heat won their games by a combined

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58-10 margin. The most lopsided win came from The Gimps, who defeated Laguna Cliffs Marriot 21-1. Feel the Heat beat Bullets, 24-5.

Wednesday Beginner Kickball • Codgers & Kids and One Kick Wonders both improved their records to 2-0 following wins over Bemus Ballers and Kickball Krew, respectively. Athlete’s Foot and Team Smith drew to a rare 2-2 tie.

Wednesday Advanced Kickball • Only three teams play in the Wednesday night advanced kickball league, and so far the three have been trading victories. Grasskickers remains unbeaten following a 9-0 shutout of Luxe n Libre. Luxe n Libre also lost to Hennessey’s 3-2. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyesters, or designer carpet. Showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point: 24662 Del Prado, Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available. All shapes and sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Call Mike at 949.240.1545

GARAGE SALES BIG GARAGE SALE Lots of home stuff, tools, clothes etc.

7/22-7/23 Sat & Sun. 33432 Cheltam Way, Dana Point.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

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

949.388.7700 ext. 102 Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

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www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surf Roundup

GROM OF THE WEEK

NICHOLAS “NICO” COLI

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

Dude’s First Final

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

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National amateur champ and San Clemente local Cole Houshmand makes first WSL final

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uick tip of the cap this week to San Clemente’s Cole Houshmand, who continues to have the summer of his young life. Down in Mexico, battling it out for WSL Qualifying Series, the 16-yearold rising star made his first pro final.

A regular in the amateur and pro junior events, after winning the national title this year at the USA Surfing Championships, he’s broadened his horizons. Blitzing his way through the Powerade Surf Open in Acapulco, he finished runner up to Costa Rica’s Carlos Munoz.

“I’m still pretty much in shock,” said Houshmand after the awards ceremony.

“Even though I didn’t win, it still feels amazing and it’s a huge experience for me. My goal all along was to make a QS Final, and even though it’s only a QS 1,000, I couldn’t be more stoked.”

Keep ripping Cole, we’re stoked for you!

Surfrider Steps Up Toll Road Rhetoric Fifteen years and five lawsuits later, it’s time to start writing letters again

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hreat of development of the 241 toll road has once again forced the Surfrider Foundation and the Save San Onofre Coalition to take action. Reacting to the support that Rep. Darrell Issa has recently given to the contentious highway project, last week, Surfrider initiated a letter-writing campaign in the hopes of educating the elected representative on why exactly San Onofre and Trestles are so essential to the health and well-being of this area.

“Clearly, Mr. Issa forgot about the thousands of people who fought for years to protect this Park and that the Bush Administration and (California) Coastal Commission denied the road in 2008,” reads a clarion statement released by the Surfrider Foundation. “Building a road through State Park is an outdated way of solving traffic.”

The toll road project continues to face staunch opposition. Environmental groups have been spearheading a fight against the six-lane 241 toll road for over 15 years, but even though they’ve come out on top in five lawsuits and numerous public hearings, the Transportation Corridor Agency

Dana Point Times July 21-27, 2017

Cole Housshmand. Photo: Courtesy of USA Surfing/Sean Evans/Water Work Media

(TCA) remains persistent in their desire to pave over our little slice of paradise. In November 2016, a settlement of a lawsuit established an “Avoidance Area” that would permanently protect the San Onofre State Beach and Trestles area. Issa seeks to undo this.

“I am disappointed that some communities and elected officials have chosen to either remain on the sidelines or literally throw roadblocks in the way of transportation alternatives, but I hope you understand that the majority of South Orange County residents want and need traffic relief solutions and that we strongly support the unrelenting efforts of TCA and its transportation agency partners,” reads an excerpt from a letter Issa released earlier this month.

Over 2.5 million people use the San Onofre State Park annually, providing innumerable environmental, economic and recreational benefits to the area.

Go to www.surfrider.org to find out more or submit a letter to Issa’s office.

In the Club California surf clubs are back and they’re coming to Salt Creek

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ack in the old days, when boards were heavy and surfers still greased their hair, the surf club scene reigned supreme up and down the California coast. Down in La Jolla, Windansea was the undisputed king of cool. Their team could out surf, out party, and pretty much out brawl anyone. Their club jackets—partially made famous by Mike Hynson in The Endless Summer—were the envy of anyone with a pair of Birdwells. As the Shortboard Revolution fired its first shots at the end of the ’60s, the club scene died out as the “soul” trip took over.

Well, the club scene just came roaring back. Last October, the West Coast Boardriders, a consortium of surf clubs from Orange County, held their first event featuring Huntington Beach versus Seal

Beach. The contest was wildly successful in the local communities, so last February they held another contest with Newport, Huntington and Seal Beach facing off.

There were nearly 100 competitors in divisions ranging from 14 and Under to 50 and Over.

Today marks the third and largest club contest to date. Hosted by the newly formed Dana Point Surf Club, there will be six teams squaring off for the WCBR Championship Cup: Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Beach, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach and defending champs Newport Beach.

“We are really excited to host the first event at Salt Creek and welcome all the other coastal cities,” said Dana Point Surf Club co-founder Eric Diamond. “Mainly, I would love to see the beach communities come together—young and old, guys and gals, moms, dads, kids—and share some great times on our beautiful coast.”

Diamond’s father was a member of the famous Windansea club.

“The club is like a living museum of beach culture and a wealth of surf history,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for the youngsters—like one of our young team captains, 2017 national champion Danny Kenduck— to learn about this place from the pioneering pro surfers like Mike Cruickshank, and so on. To be able to gather our tribe in such a fun atmosphere is an honor.”

Come down to Salt Creek this morning and support your hometown. DP

SURF FORECAST

tanding out at Lowers isn’t easy, but Nico Coli’s been doing an admirable job as of late. A Shorecliff’s Middle School graduate, the young goofy-footer has been logging ample water time this summer and preparing for all the big things coming up down the line.

“Summer has been going great, I have been surfing Lowers a lot, Rivi and Lost Winds or anywhere that looks fun, usually with my friends Liam Murray, Kade Matson and Crosby Colapinto,” Coli said.

Given that he’s running with some of the most talented groms in San Clemente, Nico’s keeping pace. Logging some solid results on the NSSA circuit this last season and a third-place finish at the Rip Curl North American GromSearch National Championships, he’s also been selected to be a part of the USA Surfing Junior National development program.

“I am honored to have been chosen to be a member of the USA Jr. Surf Team, and now that surfing is an Olympic sport, it’s even more of a responsibility to represent USA Surfing,” Nico said. “We’ve been training almost every Thursday at Oceanside Harbor with USA surf coach Joey Buran and with team members like Taj Lindblad, Nick Marshall, Kade Matson, Levi Slawson, Kirra Pinkerton and a few more rippers.”

In addition to his involvement with the U.S. National team, Nico dreams of someday joining the elite ranks of the WSL Championship Tour. Looking up to some of San Clemente’s most established surfers, including the Gudauskas brothers, Kolohe Andino, Ian Crane and Chris Ward, in the immediate future he’s hoping to try his hand in a few Pro Junior events before setting off on the WSL’s Qualifying Series.

“Then hopefully win a world title,” he added about his long-term aspirations.

Hardly a one-trick pony, out of the water Nico’s a shutterbug.

“Outside of surfing, I’d like to be a camera collector,” he said. “I like using oldschool cameras. It’s just this little hobby that I have for when I travel to take pictures with weird cameras and films.” DP

Water Temperature: 69-73 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Outlook: Small to locally fun size SW/S swell through the upcoming weekend along with minor NW widnswell. Most favorable winds continue to be in the morning hours over the next few days. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

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Nicholas Coli. Photo: Photo: Courtesy of USA Surfing/Sean Evans/Water Work Media

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