October 6, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

October 6–12, 2017

YO U

C A N

U S E

Dana Point ArtFest Returns To Del Prado PAGE 18

VOLUME 10, ISSUE 40

A Unique Position Dana Hills High School interventionist Mike Darnold guides youth through tough times E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6

Mike Darnold has come full circle at Dana Hills High School. Previously a parent when his children were students there, he now helps youth and parents combat drug dependency together as the school’s interventionist. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Dana Point Resident Recovering After Las Vegas Shooting EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

USA Wins Gold at VISSLA ISA World Championship DP SURF/PAGE 22

www.danapointtimes.com

Chamber of Commerce Selects New Executive Director EYE ON DP/PAGE 5

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES IN THE BEST OF DANA POINT AT DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

DP EYE ON DP

Dana Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week Dana Point Resident Recovering After Las Vegas Shooting THE LATEST: Dana Point resident Natalie Grumet, 37, suffered a large gunshot wound to the face in the mass shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Music Festival at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas on Oct. 1 that left approximately 60 people dead and hundreds injured.

According to a close family friend of Grumet’s who wishes to remain anonymous, the bullet supposedly entered near Grumet’s cheek and exited through her jawline. The family friend also told the Dana Point Times that Grumet underwent three individual surgeries, including a tracheotomy to support reliable breathing, a feeding tube has been inserted and her jaw has been wired shut for healing.

After multiple surgeries, she is recovering in a Las Vegas hospital, awaiting stabilization that will allow her to be transferred back to South Orange County.

As of Oct. 5, the family friend told the Dana Point Times that Grumet is conscious and sitting up, communicating through hand signals with family and friends, including husband Jason, who was also at the concert.

WHAT’S NEXT: Grumet will continue her recovery at Sunshine Hospital and Medical Center in Las Vegas. Friends and family have set up a GoFundMe account with the aim to move Natalie to a more localized, and less overwhelmed, Orange County facility within the next few days.

As of press deadline, the GoFundMe for Grumet has raised over $90,000 since Oct. 1. Stay tuned at www.danapointimes.com for updates on Grumet as they become available as well as the link to her GoFundMe page. –Daniel Ritz

Flutes Given to CUSD Students May Have Been Tainted with Semen, California DOJ Investigating THE LATEST: Students in the Capistrano Unified School District and other school districts across Southern California may have come into contact with flutes that were Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

contaminated with semen, according to statements issued by school district officials.

CUSD sent an email on Sept. 29 alerting parents that the district was notified on Sept. 28 of a pending California Department of Justice investigation involving an individual who provided flutes to children during a music education program that may have been “inappropriately contaminated with the suspect’s bodily fluid.” The district specified that the suspect is not a district employee.

CUSD’s chief communications officer Ryan Burris said in the email correspondence that the suspect conducted the music program at some of the district’s school sites, but did not identify the schools in question. Burris said that as part of the program, “students may have received a flute made of PVC plastic piping and a single wine cork that they could decorate.”

“In an abundance of caution, we are asking all families who may have had children participate in this type of program either at school or within the community to remove these flutes from your child’s possession and place them in a sealed paper bag,” Burris stated.

“We understand this is deeply upsetting to our families and that you may be seeking more details than we can provide,” Burris said. “The California Department of Justice and the US Postal Inspection Service are continuing their investigation and we are not able to provide further details until they conclude this matter.”

“We care deeply about our community, and the children in our community, and we have immediately terminated our affiliation with this program,” Uchida said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Burris said in an email on Oct. 4 that an update would be sent to CUSD families later that day. The new information was not available as of press time.

To view the initial email alert from CUSD, find this story on www.danapointimes.com —Allison Jarrell

City Council Denies Waves Resort Appeal by Surfrider Foundation THE LATEST: On Oct. 3, in a unanimous vote, Dana Point City Council members denied an appeal by the Surfrider Foundation to the previously approved Planning Commission development permit for a waves resort titled CDP17-0008.

Rick Erkeneff, Chairman of Surfrider Foundation of South Orange County, spoke on behalf of the appellate. Erkeneff and Surfrider made claims that the proposed structure, to be built on city Planning Area Four(PA4), is linked to a designed structure to be built on Planning Area Nine(PA9), and that through this

An example of the allegedly contaminated flutes given to some CUSD students. Photo: Courtesy of CUSD

design linkage disobeys the 2004 Headlands Development and Conservation Plan (H.D.C.P.). Surfrider claimed it was possible that through the design approved by the Planning Commission, that the two structures would disobey not only land coverage ordinances, but go over the allotted key allowance of 90 rooms.

City staff commented that the previously approved permit met, and superseded Coastal Commission and H.D.C.P. standards for both allowed keys (rooms) and space utilization by showing that the H.D.C.P. does not conclusively determine that combination to exceed any of H.D.C.P. or any other ordinances allowances.

“The (H.D.C.P) is multi-use. It was made that way,” Matt Schneider, Dana Point Planning Manager, said. “It is a planning document, a policy document, a regulatory document. Depending on what you are using it for, it can be open to interpretation.”

WHAT’S NEXT: After the decision, Erkeneff said he was “disappointed in the Council’s decision,” and said he supported his claims in his closing statements. The project will be moving forward in accordance to the previously approved Planning Commission permit. –DR

Mayor Lewis Appoints New Financial Review Member THE LATEST: At the recent Dana Point City Council meeting on Oct. 3, Mayor Debra Lewis announced the appointment of Joseph Jaeger to the Financial Review Committee seat previously held by Toni Nelson, who recently stepped down from the position due to family health issues.

Jaeger, who has lived in Dana Point since 2011, is a graduate of Fairfield University and has attended graduate courses

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at Harvard Business School. He has held a variety of chief executive and chief financial officer positions.

WHAT’S NEXT: Jaeger will take his seat in the next Financial Review Committee meeting to be held at City Council Chambers on Tuesday, Oct. 24. –DR

Officials Shine Light on Opioid and Heroin Epidemic in South Orange County THE LATEST: State Assemblyman Bill Brough and State Senator Patricia Bates, in partnership with the Capistrano Unified School District and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, hosted a presentation at San Juan Hills High School on Oct. 3 on increased opioid and heroin use in South Orange County.

The group of speakers presented information about local and national drug use trends, warning signs, progress with new policies addressing drug trafficking, and solutions such as educating the public and having first responders distribute the medication naloxone to reduce the number of opioid overdoses.

WHAT’S NEXT: Dr. Bharath Chakravarthy, associate professor of clinical emergency medicine and public health at UC Irvine, said if there’s one thing he hoped audience members took away from the event, it’s the importance of safely disposing of prescription drugs at home.

To view OC Health Care Agency’s complete report on 2017 Opioid Overdose and Death in Orange County, visit www. ochealthinfo.com.

To view a video of the entire presentation, check out the online version of this story, or follow Senator Pat Bates on Facebook (@senatorpatbates). —AJ www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Ushering in a New Leader Chamber of Commerce Elects Bev Jorgensen as Executive Director

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

A

s of Sept. 18, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is under new direction.

Bev Jorgensen comes to Dana Point from Carlsbad, where she served as the vice president of Corporate and Membership Relations for the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce for 10 years. Moving into a new leadership role in South Orange County, Jorgensen said she has operated and will continue to lead the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce under five clear and commonplace directives.

“The directives of the Chamber are to create a strong local economy; provide networking and professional development opportunities within our community; promote our community, represent business before government; and take part in political action,” Jorgensen said.

Business is ‘in her blood’ Jorgensen was born into a business atmosphere in Hamilton, Mississippi, where her father owned a home building contracting business.

“I feel like the Chamber and business community runs through my blood,” Jorgensen said of her upbringing.

Later, working for a publisher in Poway, California, Jorgensen became familiar with

and interested in Chamber of Commerce activities by publishing and printing Chamber of Commerce maps and guides for over 70 Southern California cities.

Jorgensen moved to San Diego in 2000, where she began her chamber career in earnest as the Member Services Director for the Poway Chamber of Commerce.

After spending time working for the Vista Chamber of Commerce in San Diego, she took a position as vice president of the North San Diego Business Chamber before moving into her position in Carlsbad in 2007.

Looking ahead at her new role Jorgensen claims it was always her goal to manage a chamber of commerce and maintained professional growth by participating in networking and training opportunities such as the Western Association of Chamber Executives Academy.

“I’m excited, and I look forward to learning this new community, the leaders of this community and this community’s needs,” Jorgensen said. “I feel that we can make an impact on business and in people’s lives.”

Falling in love with Dana Point this past summer, Jorgensen wasted no time in pursuing the executive director position once she became aware of the opening in July. With such a swift change, Jorgenson acknowledges the need for rapid acclimation, and says she remains open and receptive to Dana Point’s individual needs in order to positively, and swiftly integrate herself.

“There’s a Chamber saying, that if you’ve seen one Chamber, you’ve seen one Chamber,” Jorgensen laughed, when asked about her acclimation process. “I have an open door. I want to know what’s happening, and I have a listening ear.” DP

Bev Jorgensen is excited to take on her first Executive Director role as she leads the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Business Beat News from Dana Point’s business community

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

NEW BUSINESS

The Grand Opening of the Autozone on Doheny Road in Capistrano Beach was celebrated with a ribbon cutting. Photo: Dana Point Chamber of Commerce

Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

AUTOZONE 34061 Doheny Park Rd, Capistrano Beach, 949.226.5546 As a new member of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, the Capistrano Beach Autozone was opened with a ceremonial ribbon cutting featuring members of city staff, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, local government representatives and Autozone management on Sept. 22.

Located in the building where Dana Party Supply was previously located, Autozone offers a wide variety of car

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parts and maintenence equipment. On hand to celebrate the opening was Bev Jorgensen of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce; Mayor Debra Lewis, City of Dana Point; Sergio Prince of Orange County 5th District Supervisor’s staff; Hamid Beheshti, Autozone Store Manager; City of Dana Point Mayor Pro Tem Paul N. Wyatt; and Anne Figueroa, representing Congressman Darrell Issa.

The new location is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and open on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Autozone of Capistrano Beach is advertising that is taking applicants for available positions.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

A Unique Position Dana Hills High School interventionist Mike Darnold guides youth through tough times

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

M

ike Darnold is what most would consider a community pillar founded in dualism.

In the 74-year-old San Juan Capistrano resident’s long career of public service, Darnold has held positions such as school board president, Fullerton police officer and president of the National Council on Alcoholism/ Drug Dependence for Orange County.

Now, as the youth interventionist at Dana Hills High School, Darnold feels he is making his largest impact to date—despite his lack of clinical accreditations—by assisting students who may be battling substance use disorders or mental health issues.

“I’m not a doctor, I’m not a psychologist and I’m not a treatment specialist,” Darnold said, while sitting in his office at Dana Hills High School. “I’m an interventionist, and I’m really good at it.

Darnold’s position, which was created in 2008, was supported and created by then City Manager Doug Chotkevys.

“We quickly discussed it at a football game and then I sat down with my wife for a whole weekend preparing a proposal packet involving community action items,” Darnold said about the creation of his position. “…I walked in, handed it to Doug (Chotkevys), and he read a few lines before promptly throwing it in the garbage and writing on a piece of paper a note that read, “Be there for the kids.’”

Why like Mike?

Along with his social service, educational and humanitarian accolades, Darnold is admittedly in recovery from a substance use disorder himself and became sober at the age of 37.

This, as he described, helps him connect with students. He also typically expresses the fortune of having resources available to help them confront their addictions.

Darnold recognizes his position is unique. Officially contracted by the City of Dana Point, Darnold admits he was lucky to walk into a receptive city atmosphere, as well as a willing Board of Education.

Darnold credits his vast work experience, and diverse life experiences, for allowing him the insight to help the youth of Dana Hills High School today.

When a wave of drug and alcoholrelated deaths struck local South Orange County schools in the late 2000s, the committed academic philanthropist was there to step in and offer his social work.

Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

After a lifetime of public service across Orange County, Mike Darnold is happy to call Dana Hills High School home. Photo: Daniel Ritz

“

I want to help these kids. I want to help them remember who they were before drugs. I want to keep them at Dana

”

Hills High School and get them the help they need.

—Mike Darnold “About 90 percent of the kids I see on a day-to-day basis come from families with resources,” Darnold said. “But I see kids from every walk of life.”

With accredited residential rehabilitation programs decreasing in numbers locally for the high-school-age demographic, parents are often presented with a choice of exorbitantly expensive out-of-state residential programs, participating in demographic-specific rehabilitation or taking no action at all.

“I want to help these kids. I want to help them remember who they were before drugs. I want to keep them at Dana Hills High School and get them the help they need.”

How the high school program works Darnold works from non-descript room 300 within Dana Hills High School, where he assists anywhere from 250 to 500 students a year. Students are able to walk into his office unannounced on their own accord, or they can be referred to him by their peers.

Being under contract with the city of Dana Point, students understand that Darnold does not hold authority, does not intend to “punish” them, and that he is there to help them if, and when, they ask him for it.

Mike’s unique position—outside of Capistrano Unified School District, but within its doors under city contract—could seem hypothetically problematic.

“There’s never been an issue since I’ve been here, and that’s been through three different principals,” Darnold said when asked about his philosophies toward intervention’s cohesiveness with Capistrano Unified School District’s curriculum.

He also regularly gives presentations to teachers and other school employees on current drug trends, and successful alternative intervention methods.

When asked if he had ever encountered resistance when he approached a student’s parents about their child’s substance use disorder, Darnold said he’s never been turned away.

“I’ve never been kicked out of a home,” Darnold said. “I’ve never even been hung up on. I actually never call anyone. I’ll talk, but I make them call. I don’t tell people how to run their families. I’m here to facilitate.”

This is a part of Darnold’s initiative to help students help themselves, and he believes incorporating the family is the first step.

“My first goal and my first hope is to bring the family in. The family has to be a part of the solution and the support system.”

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Darnold noted that when a student enters his office, he more often than not, starts by asking questions as opposed to giving direction. Occasionally, Darnold has to reassure students. “’Neither you nor I can fix everything that you are going through, but I can help you feel better about it,’” Darnold said of his response to students.

Community support outside of Dana Hills Vanessa Stone is a teacher at Vista Del Mar Elementary School in San Clemente, and the parent of two young children within the local school system.

She is a part of Darnold’s Parent Project program, a separate 10-week parent counseling class outside of Dana Hills High School, where Darnold and others educate parents about the challenging world their children are living in, and ways for parents to create open and honest relationships with their children.

Stone claims that although the program has been mentally and emotionally difficult, Darnold’s self-enabling, family-first philosophy has enabled her to care for her family in a more loving, and vigilant way. “(Mike’s) teachings have taught me to let my child make her own decisions, but allow her to trust that as her parent, I will surround her with good decisions and how they should be made,” Stone said.

More information on the Parent Project can be found at www.theparentproject. com. More information on Mike’s program at Dana Hills High School, and his various other endeavors can be found at www.dhhs.schoolloop.com/studentintervention. DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Community Meetings SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7

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, OCTOBER 9

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 6 p.m. The Planning Commission will meet at Dana Point City Hall located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

South Coast Water District and Surfrider Foundation of South Orange County members announce Ocean Friendly Gardens Partnership.

Photo: Kia Stora, Surfrider Foundation of South Orange County

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY DANIEL RITZ

Surfrider Foundation Aligns with South Coast Water District in Ocean Friendly Gardens Program Surfrider Foundation of South Orange County announced a partnership with South Coast Water District in support of its Ocean Friendly Gardens campaign.

According to Surfrider, “The Ocean Friendly Gardens program sees landscapes and streets as solutions to water pollution. Ocean Friendly Gardens program standards use this simple approach everywhere when possible: contouring landscapes for rainwater retention; creating living soil to sponge up water, filter pollution and sequester carbon; and installing climate-appropriate plants to create wildlife habitat and a sense of place.”

Denise Erkeneff, special events and youth program chair for Surfrider Foundation of South Orange County, said that Surfrider and South Coast Water District will be working together in approaching communities and homeowners’ associations across South Orange County in an effort to expand the Ocean Friendly Gardens program.

Erkeneff stated that no specific locations have been pursued at this time.

More information concerning the Ocean Friendly Garden Program can be found at www.surfrider.org.

Oktoberfest Returns to Sea Terrace Park on Oct. 7 Dana Point’s annual Oktoberfest celebration will take place at Sea Terrace Park, Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

located at 22501 Niguel Rd, from 12-7 p.m. on Oct. 7.

Live music will be on hand throughout the day courtesy of the Kalifornia Krauts, with the whole day being emceed by Pieter Meister. There will be a wide variety of events throughout the day including dance parties, a sauerkraut eating contest and the crowd favorite traditional sausage toss.

Free parking is available and food and drinks will be available for purchase inside the venue.

Food vendors will be on hand making traditional American food as well as German foods such as German potatoes, bratwurst, beer brats, knockwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, goulash, rotisserie chicken, pork chops marinated in beer, coleslaw and more.

For a full schedule of events, ticket pricing and more, visit www.danapointoktoberfest.com.

California Survivors of Las Vegas Mass Shooting Can Apply to State for Help The California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB) is encouraging residents impacted by the mass shooting at Route 91 Harvest Musical Festival in Las Vegas on Oct. 1 to contact them for assistance and guidance.

Survivors are encouraged to apply now, regardless of whether or not expenses have been incurred.

CalCVB can help pay for funeral expenses, medical bills, mental health treatment, lost wages, and more. CalVCB can also help victims and their families apply for both the California Victim Compensation Program and the Nevada Victim Compensation Program, in order to maximize

the benefits available in each state.

Applications are available on CalVCB’s website at www.victims.ca.gov, and those in need of assistance applying or want to know more about resources available can contact their local victim advocate at www. victims.ca.gov.

Orange County Coastkeeper and Moulton Niguel Water District Partner to Educate Youth Moulton Niguel Water District and Orange County Coastkeeper announced a partnership to educate middle school students on water usage and environmental protection.

The water education program will be operated under Coastkeeper’s W.H.A.L.E.S program, and will be funded

by Moulton Niguel Water District. This funding will cover in-class presentations, field trips, and busing to and from local watersheds, including San Juan Creek and Aliso Creek.

Dyana Pena, Education Director of OC Coastkeeper, says they have already inked programs with Aliso Viejo Middle School, La Paz Intermediate School and Journey School, and that they are looking to start programs in November.

In a press release from Moulton Niguel Water District, President Donald Froelich stated, “By taking kids to local watersheds, they can see the plants, animals and marine life impacted by urban runoff and develop a real understanding of how our water system works.”

For more information regarding the program, visit www.mnwd.com.

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

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10

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, OCTOBER 11

MONARCH BEACH SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 7 a.m. Every Wednesday, The Rotary Club welcomes anyone interested in making a difference in the local community and ever changing world to join them in their weekly meeting. Doors and breakfast begin at 7:00 a.m., with a program from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Marriott Laguna Cliffs Resort, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, CAÐ 92629. www. monarchbeachsunriserotary.org THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12

COASTMASTERS’ (TOASTMASTERS’) 7-8:30 a.m. Join the members of the Coastmasters’ every Thursday to improve speaking and leadership skills.

34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. Adjacent to Baby Beach at OC Sailing and Events Center. www.coastmasters.org FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13

ACTION ASSOCIATES 7:30 a.m. Members of the networking group meet every Friday at RJ’s Café for networking. Membership is $45 per month and includes breakfast. Guests must RSVP before the meeting at actionassoc@gmail.com. 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

The Debt Piles Ever Higher

W

ith President Trump’s debt ceiling arrangement with Democratic congressional leaders on Sept.

6, the U.S. National Debt officially passed the $20 trillion mark for the first time ever.

Such a symbolic event naturally brings out a host of alarmists to predict the coming demise of the nation. Included among the critics is the editor of my county’s newspaper with a foreboding editorial headed by, “Will Congress ever tackle the national debt?”

Among the revelations is that the debt “translates to more than $125,000 per U.S. household.” They next point out the official debt does not include the unfunded obligations of Social Security and Medicare, which “pegs the total to more than $103 trillion—well north of $800,000 per household.” The warning is rounded off with a quotation by Congressional Budget Office Director Keith Hall stating, “The growth in debt is not sustainable. At some point it is going to get to a very high level.”

Though I don’t particularly approve of

our government consistently spending more than it takes in, I fail to view it as an impending catastrophe. It has been a consistently growing part of the U.S. economy since its founding in the late 18th century. Its only massive slash occurred during the presidency of Andrew Jackson in the 1830s, with a modest decline during the Coolidge era of the 1920s.

It’s important to note the STRAIGHT TALK debt is collective, not sinBy Al Jacobs gular. Although in theory each family may be singled out as being responsible for $125,000, it’s all somewhat esoteric, in that no collection agency will be taking action to collect anything from anyone.

The editorial concludes with an ominous warning: “No matter which political party is in power, our elected leaders do not intend to ever to pay off all our debt. This will continue to be the case until, or un-

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

the ocean and cause no harm. I’d like to know her background. The other person was for freedom, and thought the city needed to do more street sweeping and cleanup events.

I am a rare trash picker in the foreground. I keep the city informed of my findings. My experience has been that they really listen, and actively work on improvements.

I don’t think of smokers any less. We all have bad habits and desires. I am for freedom, but freedom doesn’t overwrite responsibility. Street sweeping and cleanups only happen after littering. As Pope Francis says, “We live in a throw-away culture and there is nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions.” If freedom to smoke anywhere is what City Council decides on, please carry your cigarette butt to the next trash bin.

RESIDENTS, VISITORS NEED TO CARRY CIGARETTE BUTTS TO TRASH BINS HOIYIN IP, Dana Point

Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

less, enough voters demand that it become a top priority.” That’s a pretty shrewd prediction. I see no benefit to any elected official in attempting to extract substantial sums from constituents for an expense which will be understood by few persons.

Nor do I see many voters who will demand to be taxed for the purpose of balancing a ledger sheet of which they understand little or nothing.

I consider it wise that each of us minimize our personal debts as much as possible, but community debt that is no one’s specific liability may be ignored.

Al Jacobs, a professional investor for nearly a half-century, distributes a monthly newsletter in which he shares his financial knowledge and experience. You may view it on www.roadwaytoprosperity.com. DP

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Daniel Ritz, 949.388.7700, x113 dritz@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL

Letters to the Editor Each month, I spend hours picking up trash on the streets, beaches and creeks.

I know cigarette butts are the most common form of litter, are not biodegradable, find their way into the ocean, and effect the ecosystem and food chain.

I was pleasantly surprised to see a “No Smoking in Public Places Ordinance” on the next City Council meeting agenda.

I was inspired to start a conversation. I quickly designed cards with some cleanup data, and started walking toward the farmers’ market.

On the cards, I had two questions. “Do you live in Dana Point?” If yes, “Do you know there’s talk in town about smoking in public places?” Most people didn't know. But most people had a clear position.

“It has to stop now.”

“They have no right to throw cigarette butts around.”

“It’s disgusting. How clean the streets are shows how sophisticated the city is.”

“Are we following Laguna Beach’s

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

Cigarettes are a major contributor to coastal pollution, as demonstrated by Sophie Kharileh, who participated in the cigarette cleanup at Dana Point Harbor as a part of the California Coastal Cleanup Day. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

lead?” one respondent said with a smile.

Then, I asked if they would sign my cards, one for each council member. More than 30 people signed the cards. No one minded signing six times. Many thanked me for working on such a great cause. I never thought dealing with cigarette butts was such a big deal.

Only two people were against such an ordinance. One said she knew oceanography well, and cigarette butts can all go into Page 10

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY 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.

Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point) > Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Jake Howard Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 40. 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

EDITOR’S PICK

Photo: Eric Heinz

SATURDAY, OCT. 7: DANA POINT OKTOBERFEST Noon-7 p.m. The annual Dana Point Oktoberfest returns for another year at Sea Terrace Park. Guests can choose from a selection of beers, a wide variety of food and live entertainment. Admission to the event is free. Prices vary on food. A collection mug can be purchased for $20 for beer, after the first drink refills are $10. There will be a free shuttle service from Dana Hills High School. The shuttles run from 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m.

Sea Terrace Park. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point. www.danapointoktoberfest.com.

The List

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

Friday | 06 LIVE THEATER: ‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’ 7 p.m. San Clemente High School presents Little Shop of Horrors, a tantalizing musical that has devoured the hearts of theater goers for over 30 years. The SCHS drama department is excited to bring this cult classic to life on the Triton Center stage.

All ages are welcome. Ticket prices range from $10-15. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.schsdrama.com. This show continues through Oct. 7. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.492.4165.

LIVE MUSIC: JUMPING JACK FLASH 8 p.m. Pretending, A Pretenders Tribute band featuring The Stones and Stewart Show with Gregory Wolf as Rod Stewart, will perform at The Coach House. Doors open at 6 p.m. The show starts at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com .

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard a luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday Page 12

evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Saturday | 07 21ST ANNUAL VINTAGE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 6-10 p.m. Enjoy food, wine, dancing and a lot of fun. 21 and over. Tickets are $95.

Mission San Juan Capistrano. 26801 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano. 949 234.1300. www.vintagesjc.com LET’S EXPLORE DINOSAURS! 11 a.m. Join the Dana Point Library to learn about dinosaurs for International Dinosaur month. This is a program for families to enjoy together. Designed for kids ages 3-5 and their favorite grown-up. It is free to attend. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Rd., Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

ACORN DAY 10 a.m-12 p.m. The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to welcome back Acorn Day to O’Neill Regional Park. The family friendly celebration includes crafts, active games, face-painting, acorn and oak tree planting, and a live butterfly enclosure. OC Parks invites visitors to enjoy live animal demonstrations and live music from Shadybrook Bluegrass. Admission and parking are free. O’Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon. 949.923.2260.

(Cont. on page 15) www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. on page 12) LIVE MUSIC: YOUNG DUBLINERS 8 p.m. Listen to live music at The Coach House. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

HEADLANDS NATURE WALK 9-11 a.m. Join the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center for a walk that focuses on the plants and animals that can be found on the headlands. Participants will learn about the endemic, rare and endangered plants and animals that live in the area.

The 1.5-mile walk occurs the first Saturday of each month. RSVP to dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or 949.248.3527. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point.

CASPERS PARK FOUNDATION NATURE TALK 10-11 a.m. This nature-themed lecture is held in association with the monthly meeting of Caspers Park Foundation (CPF) volunteers. Parking fee is $5. For more information, email caspersparkfoundation@gmail.com.

Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.rmvreserve.org.

LET’S EXPLORE! 11 a.m. Join the library as they stomp full STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and explore the world. This is a program for families and kids ages 3-5 years old. No registration is required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

LIVE MUSIC HARBOR CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Every Saturday join Dana Wharf for a live music harbor cruise.

Tickets are $25 per person, and the event is for 21 and older. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

Sunday | 08 LIVE MUSIC: CHRIS DANIELS PROJECT 1:30 p.m. Listen to live music at the Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

LIVE MUSIC: RIK EMMETT OF TRIUMPH 7 p.m. An acoustic duo performance with Dave Dunlop. Tickets are $35. Doors open at 5 p.m. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.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.

Dana Point Times October6-12, 2017

LEARN THE TRUTH ABOUT WOLVES 2 p.m. A presentation will be made by Skie Bender of Educational Outreach for Wolf Haven International, a nonprofit sanctuary for captive-born wolves. She will share her knowledge regarding wolves by dispelling all myths and legends. No registration is required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com

Monday | 09 Photo: David James/Universal Studios

FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

At the Movies: ‘American Made’

by Hollywood

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

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oug Liman’s period satire American Made is the most Tom Cruiseish movie the actor has ever made. The movie star is in a uniform, he’s in an airplane (or a dozen planes), he’s in a fancy looking car, he’s got a hot blonde wife. And with Liman, he has one of his most frequent collaborators of the past decade. After the modest success of the sci-fi adventure The Edge of Tomorrow (2014), Cruise and Liman are back in theaters for an amusing recounting of an unbelievable real story.

In Baton Rouge in 1978, bored pilot Barry Seal (Cruise) is offered a secret job

YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Bring a mat and suggested donation of $8. Classes also occur every morning at 10 a.m. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Tuesday | 10 TODDLER STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Join the library for stories, activities and songs for children under 3 years old. “Stay and play” with puzzles and toys after storytime. Registration is not required. Dana Point 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. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Wednesday | 11 LIVE MUSIC: KALAPANA 8 p.m. Listen to live music at the Coach House. Tickets are $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

LEGO CLUB 3 p.m. Design, build and create with the Lego Club. The library provides the bricks. No registration is required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.

Thursday | 12 CARNIVAL COLOSSAL 5-10 p.m. The San Clemente Friends Foundation hosts a four-day festival of family fun, with rides, games and food trucks, a one-day Special Needs Resource Fair and two days of games of strength presented by the International Highland Games Federation. This carnival runs through Oct. 15. Ride tickets are $3.75-$5. San Clemente City Vista Hermosa Sports Park. 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente.

949.276.8866. www.sanclementeparks.org GENTLE READS BOOK CLUB 10:30 a.m.-noon. For those interested in optimistic but provocative books without the graphic content are invited to the book club. Copies of the current selection, The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper are available at the service desk. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517.

Page 15

by CIA agent Monty Schafer (Domhnall Gleeson) to smuggle cocaine through southern states and Latin America. Soon, Barry becomes so good and in-demand at the job, he quickly gains a small team of pilots and eventually smuggles guns to the country in exchange for other goods.

But he still hasn’t quite told his wife and mother of his children, Lucy (Sarah Wright), what exactly his new job is, and he becomes a little too chummy with the Latino drug lords.

American Made is a fun, entertaining popcorn flick for a lazy weekend viewing. It’s a pretty standard studio film with Cruise, Gleeson and Wright delivering attractive performances for eye candy, a catchy soundtrack and comic relief.

The film does take quite a lot of liberties changing some historical instances for the sake of the plot or narrative, though, and viewers should be reminded this is a Hollywood movie and not a documentary. DP

DANA POINT SCIENCE NIGHT 6:30 p.m. Learn about current sciencerelated topics that are presented in a family-friendly format. There are generally hands-on activities and/or displays geared for children. Contact the Natural Resources Department for more information at dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or call 949.248.3527. Dana Point Community Center. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

LIVE MUSIC: TIM REYNOLDS & TR3 8 p.m. Listen to live music at the Coach House. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.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.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Book Talk by Dan DeNeve

‘Born to Run’ Shares Epic Stories of Runners Overcoming Harsh Conditions

C

hristopher McDougall’s Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Super Athletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen is a book that the Seaside Book Club at the Dana Point Library just completed BOOK TALK

By Dan DeNeve reading and discussing.

It’s rare when everyone in the group thoroughly enjoys a book, is excited to discuss it, and recommends it to all of their family and friends, but that was exactly the case with this book.

Born to Run is more than just another book about runners who cover more ground than marathoners and do it in places like Death Valley. Set in Mexico, McDougall introduces us to the Tarahumara tribe of Indians who live simple and peaceful lives in the Copper Canyon. These people are able to run vast distances in some of the harshest conditions known to runners, let alone ordinary mortals. This book is their story and how they came to be known throughout the ultra-marathoner community.

McDougall’s portrayal of the Tarahumara is interwoven throughout with the story of Nike, the resurgence of running in the 1970s, a brief history of ultra-marathons, how he got back into shape, and how everything we think we know about distance running is wrong. Additionally—as if running 100 miles or more in scorched-earth conditions isn’t enough—the author takes us on a harrowing journey that includes murderous drug dealers and winding roads along sheer cliffs. McDougall concludes

with a race between some of the best ultramarathoners in the U.S. travelling to the Copper Canyon to run against some of the best of the Tarahumara. While that may seem like a lot of ground to cover, McDougall guides us through it effortlessly.

Although I am a sports fan, running is usually not a subject within sports that I read about. However, this book kept my interest and I could not wait to pick it back up. An easy read, this book is an unqualified page-turner. The library owns a copy and if you check it out and read it, you will not be disappointed.

Dan DeNeve is Dana Point Library’s adult librarian and discusses a variety of novels. DP

Every week the Dana Point Times will feature a historic photo. To contribute, please provide information about the photo along with your name for credit to editorial@danapointtimes.com. This week’s photo was provided by the Orange County Archives.

Pet of the Week: Picchu

BY MYLES MELLOR

T

Last week’s solution:

Dana Point Times October 6-12, 2017

Dana Point, 1966. Miss San Juan Capistrano, Selena Forster; Miss San Clemente, Valerie Zagwolski; and Miss Dana Point, Nancy Buenger; with newly installed plaque at “Rock Placing Ceremony,” Dana Point Harbor, Aug. 29, 1966.

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point 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 Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Sudoku 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

FROM THE ARCHIVES Beauty queens with time capsule rock,

See the solution in next week’s issue.

his adorable little fuzz-ball is named Picchu and he is finally ready for adoption! Picchu currently spends his days snuggled into a comfy bed or playing with his littermates. At only 3 months old, he is full of happy energy and already has a great personality. Could he be the one for you?

If you would like to know more about Picchu, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP Page 17

Picchu. Photo: Courtesy

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

Sights and Sounds Fill Del Prado for ArtFest

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

C

lose to 100 regional artists filled the streets of Del Prado during Dana Point’s fifth installment of ArtFest on Oct. 1. Painters, craftspeople, sculptors, jewelers, photographers and more came out to show their art at Dana Point’s premier art walk.

Live music rang from the windows and patios of restaurants such as The Shwack Beach Grill, and Jack’s Restaurant and Bar courtesy of any one of the five featured local bands that played this year. Jack’s played host to an outdoor beer garden, where a portion of proceeds were to be donated to the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group.

For additional photos of Dana Point’s ArtFest on Oct. 1., visit this story online at www.danapointtimes.com. More information on ArtFest can be found at www. dpartfest.com. DP

Clockwise from top left: Artist Leti C. Stiles, of Irvine, shows off his fine art crafted on silk and canvas at ArtFest on Oct. 1. A portrait of Jimi Hendrix lines the Del Prado sidewalk. John Manzoni, of Laguna Beach, converts his love of the ocean from surfing to photography. Jane Salafia creates her glass art by cutting and aligning the glass into a variety of patterns and designs. Photos: Daniel Ritz

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

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

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE DRONE FOR SALE DJI Phantom 3 Advanced For Sale By Owner Asking Price $1,000. Items included: DJI Phantom Advanced 3 Drone, DJI Controller, Polar Pro Controller Anti-Sun Shade, DJI Charger, 5 DJI Batteries!!! LoweProDrone Bag/Backpack. Multiple Sets of DJI Propellers. Please call (949)350-1312.

GARAGE SALES BELLA VISTA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE IN SAN CLEMENTE! Calle del Cerro off Avenida Pico. October 7th from 8a-1p (No early birds please.) Furniture, jewelry, antiques, gardening supplies, area rugs and more!

HUGE MOVING SALE 24725 Camarillo Street Dana Point. Saturday, October 7th from 8am-12pm. We are moving across the country and everything MUST go!

Furniture, Bed Frames, Fitness Equipment, Kids Toys, Scooters, Clothing, Dinning Room Table and Chairs, Baby Changing Table w/ Matching Dresser, Electronics, and lots more.

HELP WANTED LEAD COOK NEEDED Please apply in person (with your resume) @ Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Position available immediately. Experience necessary.

PART TIME/FLEXIBLE FOR YARD AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Need reliable, honest person for yard work, property maintenance, minor handy man work at small private cat sanctuary. Flexible days;afternoons. Four hours, 2x a month; possible more hours. $22/hour. Must speak good English, love animals, some handyman experience. Email: healinghopecs@att.net NOW HIRING ROOM AND HOUSE ATTENDANTS FOR SAN CLEMENTE COVE AND CAPISTRANO SURFSIDE INN. Please call HR at 760-828-4204 and/or email resumes@gpresorts.com for immediate consideration.

OTHER STUFF THE SCHENKENBERGER’S NEED SOME HELP Steve Shenkenberger, husband and father of five young boys, was riding his mountain bike on Super Bowl Sunday when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver in Laguna Niguel. The family is need of donations for ongoing medical expenses and childcare. Please consider donating at www.gofundme.com/ the-schenkenbergers-medical-bills.

Dana Point Times October 6–12, 2017

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

Page 19

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

SUP World Converges in Dana Point for Pacific Paddle Games The world’s best paddlers, amateurs compete at Doheny State Beach DANA POINT TIMES

oheny State Beach welcomed the stand-up paddleboarding world over the weekend, as the third installment of the Pacific Paddle Games was contested.

The event, which is the largest gathering of the SUP community on the planet, featured closely contested SUP races, both of the technical and distance variety, along with open division contests for paddlers of all ages and skills.

After a full day of seeding heats on Sept.

30, the finals for the professionals were held on Oct. 1 and they delivered plenty of excitement.

Connor Baxter, 23, of Hawaii, won his third consecutive men’s professional combined title and Annabel Anderson, 36, of New Zealand, claimed the combined women’s professional title. Professionals had to compete in both the distance and technical races to qualify for the overall title.

D

Paddleboarders celebrate on the beach after competing in the Pacific Paddle Games. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Left: Annabel Anderson, the women’s pro combined champion, crosses the finish line at the Pacific Paddle Games. Right: Stand-up paddleboarders charge into the surf at Doheny State Beach. Photos: Daniel Ritz

Baxter battled his way to a win in the men’s pro technical race and was pushed to the limit by Australia’s Lincoln Dews.

Dews chased down Baxter late in the race, which features paddlers navigating through buoys, and the two were side-byside for the final 10 minutes. It came down to a sprint to the finish line where Baxter edged Dews by just two seconds.

Earlier in the day, Baxter won the men’s pro distance race, finishing nine seconds ahead of runner-up Michael Booth and Danny Ching, who placed third.

Ching placed second in the overall championship and Matt Nottage placed third.

Anderson dominated in both the technical and distance categories.

The New Zealander cleared the next closest competitor, Fiona Wylde, by 23 seconds en route to winning the women’s pro distance race.

However, the Kiwi saved her best performance for the technical finals.

Anderson, who built up an early lead, finished 29 seconds ahead of Dana Point’s Shae Foudy to win the race and clinch the overall title.

Olivia Piana claimed second overall in the women’s pro combined title race and Foudy took third. Foudy also placed sixth

Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Fullerton Halts Dolphin Football’s Win Streak

The Fullerton defense proved to be too much for the Dana Hills football team in a 40-6 nonleague victory on Sept. 29. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57

Dana Point TimesOctober 6-12, 2017

The Dana Hills football team could not keep momentum going last week as they lost a nonleague home game against Fullerton, 40-6, on Sept. 29.

The loss ended a two-game winning streak for Dana Hills (2-4).

Dana Hills, which will be on a bye this week, seemed to be on the right track after defeating Santa Monica and Los Amigos in back-to-back weeks, but the Indians Page 20

in the distance race.

A SUP youth movement would be a theme at the Games, as a young class of paddlers showed they can compete on the biggest stages. Baxter, Dews, Piana, Foudy, Wylde and Titouan Puyo all reached the podium in the professional division and all six paddlers are under the age of 26.

Matt Poole and Lizzie Welborn claimed the men’s and women’s pro prone combined division titles, respectively, while Ryan Funk and Jade Howson claimed the boys and girls pro junior titles, respectively.

For a full list of winners, visit www. danapointtimes.com. DP

(2-3) proved too difficult an obstacle to overcome last Friday.

Fullerton quarterback Gavin Klepper threw for 190 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 74 yards. Running back Dylan Nicholson rushed for 86 yards and two scores and caught three passes for 41 yards.

Dana Hills will regroup and head into Sea View League play next week with a home game against Laguna Hills on Friday, Oct. 13. The game will be the Dolphins’ annual Honor the Valor military appreciation game. Dozens of active-duty and retired military service members will be on-hand for special pre- and postgame ceremonies.

Over the last five years, the Honor the Valor games have raised over $75,000 for local veteran organizations in Dana Point and Laguna Niguel. Each of the 65 combat veterans in attendance will receive a special, custom camouflage jersey worn by a Dolphin player. For more information on the game, visit www.dhfootball. com/htv. www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS Triton Water Polo’s Defense Holds Strong in Win Over Dolphins Holding onto a one-goal lead in the second-half, the San Clemente boys water polo team relied on its defense to get the job done and earn an important victory against Dana Hills on Oct. 3.

The Tritons shut out the rival Dolphins in the final two quarters of a South Coast League game on the road in an 8-5 victory.

Dana Hills (6-10, 2-1 league) fired shot after shot at the Tritons (10-7, 1-1) in the third and fourth quarters, but it was the San Clemente defense—led by sophomore Christian Hosea, junior Billy Moore and sophomore goalie Trevor Benge—that stood tall.

The big swing in momentum happened when Hayden Kahn scored for San Clemente with 11 seconds left in the first half to give the visitors a 6-5 lead. Less than one minute into the third quarter, Ty Matson scored to make it 7-5 and gave the Tritons a cushion.

Hosea and Moore were tasked with guarding Dana Hills’ offensive threats, Kaden Likins and Kai Hanson. The Dana Hills prolific duo combined to score three goals and an assist.

“It was anyone’s game and to blank them in the second half … that was the game,” San Clemente coach Logan Powell

said. “I told them from the beginning it was going to be a defensive battle. With an 8-5 score, that shows both teams were playing some good defense.”

San Clemente survived constant pressure from Dana Hills in the third quarter.

The Dolphins outshot the Tritons 7-4 but could not find the back of the net.

“We made really big stops and just came together as a team and played good defense,” Hosea said. “We pressed them hard.”

Seven combined goals were scored in an action-packed second quarter. Matson scored three times in the second and Likins scored twice for Dana Hills, including on a long shot from the Dolphins’ side of the pool that made it 3-3.

Dana Hills will host Los Osos in a nonleague game on Saturday, Oct. 7.

Girls Volleyball Extends Win Streak to 10 The Dana Hills girls volleyball team is on a hot streak.

The Dolphins, who won the La Jolla Coastal Classic tournament last week, going a perfect 7-0, continued their winning ways when returning to Sea View League competition.

Dana Hills (19-4, 4-0) toppled Laguna Hills (1-12, 0-2) in three sets on Sept. 26, beat Aliso Niguel (11-9, 2-2) in four sets in a nonleague victory and got past El Toro

Above: San Clemente’s Ty Matson pressures the ball during a South Coast League water polo game against Dana Hills on Oct. 3. Right: Kaden Likins is guarded by San Clemente’s Christian Hosea.

Photos: Steve Breazeale

(10-9, 3-1), a league rival, in four games on Oct. 3.

Dana Hills was scheduled to play Mission Viejo (9-13, 1-2) in a league contest on Oct. 5.

Results were not available at press time.

DP DP SURF

Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Team USA Wins Gold

VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship Results Final Team Results: 1 (Gold) – USA 2 (Silver) – Hawaii 3 (Bronze) – Japan 4 (Copper) – Australia 5 – France 6 – Brazil 7 – Costa Rica 8 – Argentina 9 – Portugal 10 – New Zealand

For only the second time, the U.S. surf program wins gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

Girls Under 16 1 (Gold) – Alyssa Spencer (USA) 2 (Silver) – Keala Tomoda-Bannert (HAW) 3 (Bronze) – Samantha Sibley (USA) 4 (Copper) – Gabriela Bryan (HAW)

F

or America’s next generation of surf stars, the future is now. Claiming a team gold medal for only the second time in the U.S. program’s storied history, the boys and girls rallied to win team gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Championship. Heading into the final day of the week-long contest—taking place in quality, highly contestable surf at Okuragahama Beach in Hyuga, Japan—the Americans were in the lead, but needed some solid results to bring home the gold. That’s exactly what they got, including standout performances from a couple of local ladies.

In the Under 16 Girls final, Team USA’s Alyssa Spencer got on a roll early and never looked back. Hailing from Carlsbad, she opened the final with a near-perfect 9.87 to jump out to an early lead. She held on to claim her first individual gold medal, while San Clemente’s Samantha Sibley earned a bronze medal for her part in the action-packed final.

“This has been my dream since I started surfing,” Spencer said. “I can’t believe it’s actually true. I’m speechless. I wanted the gold so bad, and getting that nine right off the bat boosted my confidence so much.

After that, I just needed another score to back it up.”

Team USA won gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship in Hyuga, Japan on Oct. 1.

Photo: Courtesy of ISA/Sean Evans

The girls kept rolling in the Under 18 final. Hawaii’s Brisa Hennessy successfully defended her 2016 VISSLA ISA Junior title, while San Clemente’s Kirra Pinkerton stepped up against the older competitors to earn a copper medal (fourth place) and help cement Team USA’s standings.

On the men’s side, South Orange County surfers Kade Matson and Cole Houshmand put in valiant efforts in the early rounds of the contest, but were relegated to the cheering section by the last day. Carrying the torch for the American boys, Los Angeles’ Noah Hill stepped up his game in the Boys Under 18. After snapping his femur trying a full-rotation air in 2016, he bounced back from injury and finished with a silver medal. Winning the division was Argentina’s Ignacio Gundesen.

“I am so happy to win this,” Gundesen said. “I am so proud that I’ve earned a top-eight spot for my country to compete in the ISA Aloha Cup next year. I couldn’t

GROM OF THE WEEK

CARSON KROPFL

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

L

ast November, we featured young Carson Kropfl as Grom of the Week after he took a board to the dome at the Stoke-O-Rama, received five stitches and just missed making the final. Shortly thereafter, Carson launched his own business called Locker Board. Cutting down used skateboard decks, he ingeniously reshaped the boards to fit inside a small school locker.

What a difference a year makes. Recently, 12-year-old Carson found his way onto the ABC TV show Shark Tank, where he and his mom pitched Locker Board.

Dana Point Times October 6-12, 2017

Photo: Courtesy

Guest shark Sir Richard Branson went head over heels for the idea and is now throwing $65,000 into the company for a 20 percent stake.

“One idea I invested in is Locker Board, where a 12-year-old entrepreneur named Carson designs and produces upcycled

have done this without my team. This is for them. This is for Argentina.”

Finally, in the Boys Under 16 final, Malibu’s Taro Watanabe barely missed out on a gold medal of his own. In the dying second of the final, Japan’s Joh Azuchi ripped a wave all the way from out the back to the beach. The judges threw him an 8.6 for the effort. It was enough to edge out Watanabe by a mere 0.16 of a point.

“I can’t believe this happened,” Azuchi said afterward. “I am so stoked. I was able to win because there are so many people behind me, supporting me.”

The combined results of the American surfers proved to be just enough to edge out a savvy Hawaiian squad. Earlier this year it was announced that the sport of surfing would be included in the 2020 Olympic Games in Japan. The VISSLA ISA World Junior Championship is the first step toward the Games.

“What an incredible week of competition. We have witnessed history here

skateboards that fit into backpacks and lockers,” Branson stated on his Virgin company blog. “It’s great to see the spark to want to solve a problem and make that into a business that can improve the lives of the people around you from such a young entrepreneur. I see a lot of myself in Carson—I began dabbling in business from a very young age—although I have to say I think his idea is much more solid than my childhood plans to breed budgies or grow Christmas trees.”

It’s not every week we get to quote Richard Branson in the Grom of the Week section of the paper. It’s also worth mentioning that the Orange County Business Journal has nominated him for “Innovator of the Year.” Congrats and keep up the good work, Carson! DP

Page 22

Boys Under 16 1 (Gold) – Joh Azuchi (JPN) 2 (Silver) – Taro Watanabe (USA) 3 (Bronze) – Keanu Chris Kamiyama (JPN) 4 (Copper) – Lucas Vicente (BRA) Girls Under 18 1 (Gold) – Brisa Hennessy (HAW) 2 (Silver) – Leilani McGonagle (CRC) 3 (Bronze) – Summer Macedo (HAW) 4 (Copper) – Kirra Pinkerton (USA) Boys Under 18 1 (Gold) – Ignacio Gundesen (ARG) 2 (Silver) – Noah Hill (USA) 3 (Bronze) – Cody Young (HAW) 4 (Copper) – Dylan Moffat (AUS)

in Japan on many levels,” ISA President Fernando Aguerre said. “We crowned the first VISSLA ISA World Champions in Japan in 27 years and also saw new nations earn their first gold medals…We certainly will see some of the athletes that competed this week in Japan among those representing their nations at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in three years.” DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 67-70 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Outlook: Nice size SSW swell builds Friday and peaks over the weekend with shoulder high to overhead surf at best breaks.

Modest NW swell mixes in. Morning winds are light. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook. into each afternoon.

Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

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