October 26, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

October 20–26, 2017 YO U

C A N

U S E

Wind & Sea Restaurant Celebrates 45-Year Anniversary PAGE 14 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 42

Third Time’s the Charm Former Dana Hills High graduate wins Festival of Whales logo design contest E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 5

Frankie Michinock, 23, of Laguna Niguel, said she was in shock after receiving almost a thousand votes to beat out more than 70 other logo submissions.

Photo: Daniel Ritz

Aliso Viejo Man Charged with Two Counts of Murder; DA Seeks Life in Prison EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Harbor Developer Named by Board of Supervisors EYE ON DP/PAGE 5

www.danapointtimes.com

South OC Surf Community Comes Together to Assist Fire Victims in Northern California DP SURF/PAGE 18

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 Aliso Viejo Man Charged with Two Counts of Murder THE LATEST: Luke William Ferguson, 26, of Aliso Viejo, was scheduled to be arraigned on Oct. 17 in Orange County Superior Court for charges of two counts of murder and two Photo: Orange County counts of attempted Sheriff’s Department murder with sentencing enhancements of special circumstances for the multiple murders as well as using a firearm to cause personal injury or death.

Ferguson is accused of fatally shooting his father, Douglas Ferguson, 59, and his father’s girlfriend, Lisa Cosenza, 51, at 2:50 p.m. on Oct. 12 at their home in The Hamptons subdivision in Aliso Viejo.

Ferguson is also accused of shooting two other men, ages 23 and 48.

According to a GoFundMe page, Brandon Dufault, 23, was taking a shower at the home when the door was forced open and Ferguson allegedly opened fire. The bullet hit Dufault and shattered glass into his eyes, which may never fully heal, the page stated. A bullet was lodged in his tonsils that surgeons later removed. The other man has been identified in multiple media reports as Todd Kuchar, 48, who was living in the home with the three other people at the time of the shooting.

Kuchar has since been released from the hospital and conducted interviews with local television stations.

According to a press release from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (DA), after shooting the four people, Ferguson stole one of the surviving victims’ cars and fled the scene. He was later arrested in Inglewood after a multiple-hours standoff with local police.

Court documents show Ferguson was also convicted of felony stalking in 2012 in Los Angeles.

Cosenza was an account executive for a short time in 2013 for Picket Fence Media, which publishes the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch. She is also a graduate of Dana Hills High School.

Dana Point Times October 20–26, 2017

Ray Woods of Dana Hills High School accepts his Teacher of the Year award from Dana Point Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 Post Commander Wayne Yost. Photo: Daniel Ritz

sions for next year’s Teacher of the Year is just a few weeks away on Oct. 31. Stay tuned to Dana Point VFW Post 9934 updates at www.vfwpost9934.org. —DR

WHAT’S NEXT: Ferguson’s arraignment has been continued to Nov. 3. If Ferguson is convicted of the charges, the DA is seeking a sentence of life in state prison without the possibility of parole. —Daniel Ritz and Eric Heinz

Funding Approved for New Sheriff Motorcycle

Dana Hills’ Ray Woods Wins Teacher of the Year THE LATEST: Ray Woods, a teacher at Dana Hills High School, was awarded the State of California Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Teacher of the Year Award at the City Council meeting on Oct.17.

Woods has been a teacher for 47 years and is currently the artistic director of the South Orange County School of the Arts at Dana Hills High School, where he has served as the vocal music and AP Music Theory instructor for 34 years.

VFW Dana Point Post 9934 Marketing Officer Jack Durish said that Woods was nominated by his peers within Dana Hills High before being nominated as Teacher of the Year for that particular post. From there, Woods was nominated and then selected as Teacher of the District before moving on to win the state selection.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized by the VFW on a local, regional and statewide basis,” Woods said. “It means that I’ve been pointing my students in the right direction.”

At City Council, in a room packed with VFW members and Capistrano Unified School District colleagues, Woods was presented with an award from Mayor Debra Lewis and Councilman Richard A. Viczorek.

WHAT’S NEXT: Durish said that although Woods has just been recognized for his achievements, the deadline for submis-

THE LATEST: After an Orange County Sheriff’s Department officer was rear ended in early 2017 and did not return to duty, Dana Point has been without a motorcycle patrol.

During its meeting on Oct. 17, City Council approved funding for a new motorcycle for the officer who will begin patrolling the city in early November.

Dana Point Police Chief Lt. Ross Chilton said during the council meeting that motorcycle patrol is crucial if the city is serious about traffic enforcement.

“Motorcycle patrols are unique as they are almost solely focused on traffic enforcement,” Chilton said.

Chilton identified Deputy Cash Poythress, previously of the Mission Viejo department, as the deputy coming to the streets of Dana Point.

WHAT’S NEXT: More updates on Deputy Poythress will come from the Dana Point Times as he is integrated into his new role in November. Visit www.danapointtimes. com. —DR

City Council Approves Conduit Financing for Affordable Housing Complex THE LATEST: Dana Point City Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution to authorize a joint powers agreement

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that allows issuance of revenue bonds, not to exceed $67.5 million dollars, to the Caritas Corporation for the purpose of financing and refinancing the acquisition and improvement of mobile home parks and other low-income multifamily housing facilities, including those at 33951 Silver Lantern in Dana Point.

Caritas Corporation currently operates more than 4,500 units throughout California.

Councilman Joe Muller voiced his support of the Caritas Corporation model for affordable housing, calling it “innovative and progressive.”

The joint powers agreement allows tax exemptions such as some property taxes.

It was explained that with issuance of the revenue bonds from the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) and the City of Dana Point, all responsibility for debts owed lie solely on the Caritas Corporation.

The Caritas Corporation facility on Silver Lantern is under the operating authority of the Friendship Shelter, located at 13335 S. Coast Hwy in Laguna Beach.

This location consists of 15 housing units available to qualified tenants as well as one permanent, but not full-time occupied office unit. Tenants, who must be qualified and registered as “chronically homeless,” are to adhere to a modified lease that holds them responsible to legal and standardized rental requirements.

WHAT’S NEXT: For more information on Caritas Corporation visit www.caritascorp. org, and for more information on the Friendship Shelter of Laguna Beach, visit www.friendshipshelter.org. —DR

Local Woman Continues to Recover After Las Vegas Shooting THE LATEST: Dana Point resident Natalie Grumet continues to recover after suffering a gun-shot wound to the face during the Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting on Oct. 1 in Las Vegas that left just under 60 people dead.

According to a GoFundMe page started and regularly updated by her sister-in-law Heather Flores and her husband Jason Grumet, they have raised just under $115,000 from 1,839 people. Natalie is recovering well and recently had her tracheotomy support tube taken out.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the latest update from the GoFundMe page on Oct. 18, Flores said Natalie is expected to be released from Mission Hospital in the coming days. Visit this story online for a link to the GoFundMe page at www. danapointtimes.com. —DR www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Third Time’s the Charm Dana Hills High graduate wins Festival of Whales logo design contest

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t shouldn’t have been a surprise when Frankie Michinock, 23, of Laguna Niguel, admitted that she didn’t have a printed copy of her award-winning 2018 Festival of Whales graphic.

After being identified as one of the top five logos by the Festival of Whales Board of Directors from over 70 entries, Michinock—who is rather humble—was blown away after being named a finalist, and later received just under one thousand votes in the public voting section hosted on social media.

Not long after the polls closed on social media she was crowned, leaving little time to absorb the news in full.

“I still can’t believe this. I’m in shock,” Michinock exclaimed while looking overwhelmed with the attention. “It’s unbelievable. I can’t thank my friends, family and everyone who voted enough.”

This was Michinock’s third time entering the Festival of Whales logo design contest. The Laguna Niguel resident and Dana Hills High School graduate placed fourth her sophomore year of high school in 2010 and second in 2012, but said she has always identified with Dana Point as home and definitely felt motivated—and a bit of pressure—

South Orange County local Frankie Michinock stands with her award-winning logo design at Ken Sampson Overview Gazebo. Photo: Daniel Ritz

from her home town pride while designing this year’s award-winning graphic.

Michinock said that it was during her time at Dana Hills, under the motivational tutelage of Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair Natalie Hribar-Kelly, that she began to believe in her skills in the arts.

For her latest entry, Michinock said that she was inspired by the graphics on the trolleys that circulated Dana Point this summer.

“I wanted to give my design a time-

less feel,” Michinock said. “All of the designs (in the past) were incredible, but I thought it was important to create a graphic that appealed to a wide variety of people. I wanted it to resonate with everyone who calls this town home.”

When speaking about the technicalities behind her design, Michinock spoke confidently.

“Obviously, I wanted the whale to be the main focus, held by the waves and supported by Dana Point,” Michinock explained. “I have always loved Disney

and have been inspired by their three-tier visuals too.”

She said the whale tail is meant to be “held” by the waves in the sea and its central position is symbolic to the mammal’s cultural and historical relevance in Dana Point. The orange dot in the background represents both the sun and the “point” in Dana Point, a key geographical location in Orange County.

Color choice was also a large focus for Michinock in her winning design.

“I usually don’t focus too much on colors,” she admitted. “I prefer to work in gray-scale. However, in this design, I relied heavily on my understanding of the pantone scale that I recently studied in college.”

After graduating from California State University-Fullerton in spring 2017 with a double major in illustration and graphic design, Michinock is actively pursuing her passions in Orange County. These days, she said she is excited by innovative and creative package design, the intersection of beauty and tangibility.

“I’ve always been focused on functionfirst art. If it isn’t useful, I’m not interested,” Michinock said.

This functionality-first mentality assisted her process, as her logo will be placed on thousands of pieces of festival merchandise for the 2018 Festival of Whales.

“Not only did we end up with dozens of beautiful entries to choose from, but the variety of design styles was really great,” said Festival of Whales Foundation CoChair Donna Kalez. “We are very happy with the final product.”

The Dana Point Festival of Whales will be held on March 3-4, and March 10-11, 2018. For more details, visit www.festivalofwhales.com. DP

Harbor Developer Named by Board of Supervisors

Dana Point Harbor Partners selected as primary developer for the next 66 years

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

D

uring their meeting on Oct. 17, the Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously selected Dana Point Harbor Partners (DPHP) as the primary developer, operator and manager of the Dana Point Harbor for the next 66 years.

With this vote, the Board of Supervisors has directed Orange County Chief of Real Estate Officer Scott Mayer to enter into lease agreement negotiations with DPHP. If everything goes in alignment with the timeline proposed by DPHP, a draft contract agreement should be completed within the next 120 days.

Beyond the acronym • The DPHP

Dana Point Times October 20–26, 2017

development team consists of three comanaging members, each responsible for their respective property type.

Burnham Ward Properties will oversee the commercial core, Bellwether Financial Group will manage the wet and dry marinas and R.D. Olson Development will manage the hotel sector. A county staff report lists relevant project experiences as the South Coast Collection, Long Beach Exchange, Paséa Hotel in Huntington Beach, Lido House Hotel in Newport Beach and the Alamitos Bay Marina in Long Beach.

The single master-lease between the county and DPHP was an important element in the Board of Supervisor’s decision. Fifth District Supervisor Lisa

Bartlett described it during the meeting as “everyone being in the same bucket.”

Universal local support • James Lenthall, president of the Dana Point Boaters Association, announced late last week that his group had joined the merchants of the Dana Point Harbor in unified support of DPHP, who at that time had been determined as the county staff’s recommendation.

Lenthall said in an email after the decision was announced that,“The Dana Point Boaters Association is pleased that the supervisors agreed with us, and the merchants, and so many others in our community that Dana Point Harbor Partners is the superior choice to rebuild

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our harbor and carry it with us into the future. Though the supervisors did use today to challenge county staff on the technicalities of their review process, there was never a challenge to the outcome of the process or the recommendation of a developer.”

Shannon Levin, Dana Point Harbor manager, said that she was excited that the community, boaters and merchants have a viable project to look forward to as well as a solidified developer.

“I think that this resounds that DPHP was the right selection,” Levin said. “Their management structure, financials and timeline are what the community desires. We are all ready to move on with a long-awaited project.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY DANIEL RITZ

Surfing Heritage and Culture Center Unveils SURF 2 SKATE Exhibit on Oct. 21

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21

On Saturday, Oct. 21, from 6-9 p.m., the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC) will unveil its new exhibit SURF 2 SKATE: From Liquid to Asphalt which showcases the evolution of skateboarding to sidewalk surfing and the early surf shop skate teams of the 1960s and 1970s.

The exhibit will feature never before seen early images from Rick Griffin and his “Bum Board” series of skate cartoons plus special guests from the surf and skate communities.

The event is $5, and free to SHACC members. The SHACC is located at 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente and more information can be found on www.surfingheritage.org.

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 23

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 6 p.m. The Planning Commission will meet in Council Chambers at Dana Point City Hall located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. To see the agenda for this meeting visit www.danapoint.org.

Surfrider Foundation to Name First Registered Ocean Friendly Restaurant on Oct. 25 The Surfrider Foundation will be celebrating the Harvest Restaurant being named its first platinum-ranked Ocean Friendly Restaurant (OFR) with a reception on Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 5-7 p.m. at 31106 Coast Highway, Laguna Beach.

The Ocean Friendly Restaurant program recognizes restaurants and hotels that instill self-regulated ocean friendly practices. According to a Surfrider Foundation release, “restaurants can be registered as a OFR by meeting mandatory criteria such as not using expanded polystyrene (EPS), practicing proper recycling, not using plastic bags and only reusable tableware in house, plus meeting three of six optional criteria, including plastic straws only upon request, best choice seafood options defined by “Seafood Watch,” regular vegan options, water conservation practices and energy efficient installations.”

A platinum OFR meets all mandatory and optional criteria.

For more information, contact Denise Erkeneff at denisedd@cox.net or Caitlin Curry of the Ranch at Laguna Beach at Caitlin@ranchlb.com.

Ante Up for Autism to Take Place on Oct. 28 This year marks the 11th anniversary of the annual “Ante Up for Autism” casino and gala event, which will take place at the recently renovated Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach on Saturday, Dana Point Times October 20–26, 2017

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24

FINANCIAL REVIEW COMMITTEE MEETING 4 p.m. The Financial Review Committee (FRC) will meet in Council Chambers at Dana Point City Hall located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

To learn more about the FRC visit www.danapointtimes.com.

www.danapoint.org. More information on DUILA can be found on www.duila.org.

Oct. 28, at 5:30 p.m.

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), a national nonprofit organization that helps families living with autism navigate the challenges of the disorder, is putting on the event.

Guests, sponsors, celebrities and poker professionals will come together for the casino-themed fundraiser. All proceeds benefit TACA families. For more information, visit www.tacanow.org.

Emergency Preparedness Fair to Take Place on Oct. 21

Dana Point Recognizes Red Ribbon Week Red Ribbon Week is a national drug prevention movement that takes place from Oct. 23-31, and Drug Use Is Life Abuse (DUILA) plays a leading role in the effort in Orange County. For 25 Years, DUILA has provided red ribbon wristbands to every school-aged child in Orange County.

Additionally, DUILA partners with local businesses to provide incentives for students who wear the red ribbon wristbands in recognition of their commitment to being drug free. For a full list of participating local businesses offering incentives, visit

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints will host an Emergency Preparedness Fair from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 310 Avenida Vista Montana, San Clemente.

This free public event features topics such as solar cooking, water purification, sustenance gardening, planning for pets, active shooter drills and more. Representatives from Orange County Fire Authority, the city of San Clemente CERT team and other local organizations will be present to help and provide information.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

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OCEAN WATER QUALITY SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING 3 p.m. The Ocean Water Quality Subcommittee will meet in Suite 212 at Dana Point City Hall located at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. To see the agenda for this meeting visit www.danapoint.org.

MAYOR DEBRA LEWIS CITY OFFICE HOURS 3 p.m. Mayor Debra Lewis is scheduling office hours in 15 minute increments at City Hall at 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. If you would like to meet with the Mayor, please contact Gail Enriquez at genriquez@danapoint. org or 949.248.3501.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25

MONARCH BEACH SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 7 a.m. Every Wednesday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes anyone interested in making a difference in the local community to join them in their weekly meeting. Breakfast begins at 7 a.m., with a program from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Marriott Laguna Cliffs Resort, 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.monarchbeachsunriserotary.org.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

Letters to the Editor MANAGING CARE IN CAPISTRANO BEACH AMBROSE MASTO, Capistrano Beach

It was interesting to read the opinion article in the Oct. 6-Oct. 13 edition of the Dana Point Times. The piece, written by Councilman Muller, was prompted by a recent California Coastal Cities meeting as well as some recent high surf in Capo Beach which caused some damage to beach parking lots and picnic tables. Not mentioned was some serious damage to ocean front homes in Capistrano Beach.

Apparently the California Coastal Commission (CCC) said at a recent conference that they have no solution to the Capo Beach situation. Councilman Muller wants to bring all stakeholders together to discuss this issue, and he suggested dialogue with California State Parks, O.C. Parks, Caltrans, O.C.T.A, The Surfrider Foundation, and the CCC. The CCC and The Surfrider Foundation are pretty much in agreement. Their policy is "managed retreat." That means the public that is affected by the high surf should not be able do anything of a corrective nature.

O.C. Parks have inserted large boulders along the shore to protect the parking lot pavement and some picnic benches along some of the Doheny coastline areas. Since Capistrano Bay District, including Beach

GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

The Bitcoin Phenomenon Must End

F

or those of you who extol the fortunes of Bitcoin, you’re in seventh heaven. Within the past several days the market value of a single coin surged to $5,832. At the end of 2016 its price was about $950, but thereafter skyrocketed to its present worth, a six-fold increase.

Believers in Bitcoin say it’s the money of the future, a digital alternative to the other established currencies such as the dollar, the euro or the yen.

For those of you unfamiliar with this device, it’s a digital currency created in 2009 by an unknown person. Transactions involve no banks, no transaction fees and Dana Point Times October 20–26, 2017

Road, has the most experience in coastline erosion and protection than anyone else in this area. I would hope, Councilman Muller, that you will consider our district a prime "stakeholder" in these matters. As a Dana Point neighborhood representing close to a billion dollars in property evaluations and a significant property tax revenue for the city, I hope you will include us in any decision making process.

NFL PROTESTS JOHN PERRY, San Juan Capistrano

Football is a game governed by rules.

All players are taught the rules by their coaches who expect them to follow the rules of the game.

Referees are on the field to make sure everyone follows the rules. If a player violates a rule, the referees impose a penalty.

If the violation is severe, the player can get ejected from the game. Suppose the football game was played without referees.

The game would soon degenerate into chaos.

Civilization is governed by laws (rules) that all people are expected to obey. We employ police officers to make sure everyone follows the law. If someone breaks a law, the police can give the person a citation or may arrest the person suspected of breaking a law. The police officer is required to present evidence to a judge who makes the final ruling. Suppose there were no police and everyone was allowed to do whatever they wanted. Civilization would soon break down and survival of the strongest would prevail. In other words, allow anonymity. Bitcoins are stored in a digital “wallet,” which exists either in an imaginary bank account, known as a cloud, or on a user’s computer. You may think of them as peer-to-peer currency, in that no central authority issues new money or tracks transactions. This task is managed collectively by the network. They are sent or signed over from one addressee to another, with each user maintaining multiple addresses. This technique entails a fast and presumably reliable payment network with easy access.

In this way they may be bought, sold and used to purchase things from STRAIGHT TALK those entities which acBy Al Jacobs cept them.

What will become of this milieu is hotly debated, as it’s mostly unregulated.

Whether Bitcoin rises or falls in value seems to be dependent upon the euphoria of its supporters so its history has been one of wild volatility. You might note the field of cryptocurrency is not confined to this single example. At present, there are more than 1,100 other players, though all

civil order would degenerate into chaos and there would be no civilization.

HOW DO WE SAVE OUR BEACHES? LET’S GO “ORGANIC” ART BURNEVIK, Dana Point

The beach issue is not about rising oceans or so-called “climate change”. It’s really about poor planning. When property is developed just a bit above sea level and in close proximity without any consideration of cyclical and historical events as natural as tornadoes and hurricanes, is there any wonder why it fails a long-term performance test? Hurricane Sandy was a demonstration that sooner or later, buildings on the shoreline will result in destructive forces taking charge regardless of how many “conversations” and theories about “lowering the sea level” you might propose.

I suppose you could invoke some feelgood, ineffective, bankrupting global plan like carbon credits or build a sea wall, but I say let’s go “organic” and put God and mother nature in charge.

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.

far less prominent than Bitcoin.

There are analysts, such as Thomas Lee, founder of the Wall Street firm Fundstrat Global Advisors, who predicts Bitcoin will enjoy broader adoption as a “store of value” similar to gold. Others, however, view it as a passing trend which will be a relic of the past within the next few years, and fade from memory as did the 17th century Dutch tulip bulb mania.

As for the future of this digital currency concept, despite the monetary success of Bitcoin thus far, I agree with the doubters. I firmly believe any investment craze easily prone to manipulation and with no sound basis for value must end, normally amidst chaos and recrimination. We shall see what the future holds.

Al Jacobs, a professional investor for nearly a half-century, issues a monthly newsletter in which he shares his financial knowledge and experience. You may view it on www.roadwaytoprosperity.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

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

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

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

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL 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 42. 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.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

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DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

BEND & BREW 11 a.m. Bend & Brew is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente. This is a one-hour yoga class, followed by a pint of beer. It’s a great way to get to know your local fellow yogis and beer drinkers. The cost is $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

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

Friday | 20 MEET THE AUTHORS EVENING 6:30-9 p.m. Three Dana Point authors will share their publishing experiences and tips from the viewpoint of both new and seasoned authors with a question and answer session. This event is open to the public and free to attend. Light refreshments will be served. Dana Point Women’s Clubhouse. 24642 San Juan Avenue, Dana Point. For reservations please contact J. McLain at 949.235.2840.

LIVE MUSIC: VOODOO GROOVE 7:30 p.m. Listen to live music at Iva Lee’s Restaurant. 949.361.2855. 555 N. El Camino Real Suite E, San Clemente. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE MUSIC: RICHIE FURAY 8 p.m. Listen to live music at The Coach House. Tickets are $30. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

LIVE MUSIC: BIG OPEN SKY 8:30 p.m. Listen to live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 21 BIKE MS BAY TO BAY 8 a.m.-noon. Join the National Multiple Sclerosis Society for it’s annual cycling adventure from Irvine to San Diego. www.nationalmssociety.org.

A WALK THROUGH HISTORY 9-11 a.m. Participants will learn about several historical periods, the “Woodruff” Era of the 1920s and 30s, the surfing heritage, and the harbor construction. The walk occurs on the third Saturday of the month.

RSVP to dpnaturalresources@danapoint. org or call 949.248.3527. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

MAKE AND TAKE PUMPKIN WITH SUCCULENTS 9 a.m. Join Armstrong Garden to create a fun and unique planter for your porch or patio. All materials will be supplied.

Dana Point Times October 20-26, 2017

KUNDALINI WORKSHOP 1:30-3:30 p.m. Learn about the fundamentals of Kundalini Yoga and immerse yourself in a total energy shift with yoga instructor and Reiki master, Desiree Lee. Tickets are $45. 34485 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Wayne Penn-Schafer, pictured in circa 1960, was on the ground floor of the surf culture movement of the mid-20th century. A new book, titled ‘Indian’ has been published on the details of his life. Photo: Courtesy of Joe Dunn

FOREIGN FILM 2 p.m. A film is shown on the fourth Sunday of the month. Registration is not required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25 LECTURE: INDIAN: THE LIFE OF OSAGE WATERMAN WAYNE SCHAFER 7 p.m. The Dana Point Historical Society will feature a discussion between author Joe Dunn and waterman Wayne Schafer where they will speak about writing a new book. A reception will follow in the Dana Point High School Museum, suite 104. City Hall Council Chambers. 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.danapointhistorical.org

LIVE MUSIC: TIJUANA DOGS 2:30 p.m. Listen to live music at the Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

The price is $49 and prior registration is required. 32382 Del Obispo Street, Suite D, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.6666. info@armstrongarden.com.

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

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

FAREWELL TO THE SWALLOWS BBQ Noon-4 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association presents its annual Farewell to the Swallows BBQ at Zoomars Petting Zoo. Food is $5 a plate, and beer and wine will be available to purchase.

Live music will be provided by the Kelly Boys. Zoomars, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1976. www.swallowsparade.com.

DOHENY STATE BEACH HALLOWEEN HAUNT 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring the family to celebrate Halloween in a fun and safe environment with arts and crafts, a fun zone and a variety of educational booths. The event will occur in picnic sites A and B. Admission is free, but guests are requested to bring a donation of one non-perishable food item per person. Doheny State Beach.

25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive. www.dohenystatebeach.org.

DANA POINT SYMPHONY 7:30 p.m. Opening concert of the 20172018. Season music of the Macabre Dean Anderson. St. Edward the Confessor.

33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point.

Tickets are $15-20. 949.542.6282. www.danapointsymphony.com.

BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE 8-10 p.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer to witness marine birds, sea lions and bioluminescent plankton.

A net will drop down 600 feet to capture these creatures. Cost is $24-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

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.

LIVE MUSIC: MARTHA DAVIS AND THE MOTELS 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.

OPERA OF THE HIGH SEAS: A MUSICAL EVENT 6-8:30 p.m. Don’t miss a voyage of operatic proportions as acclaimed vocalists take guests on a musical journey of opera arias celebrating pirates, mermaids, seas and sails. There will be light refreshments and a cash bar. Tickets are $75 for attendees 21 and older, $35 for 21 and under, or $50 for members. The Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. www.ocean-institute.org.

LIVE MUSIC: SARAH JAROSZ 7 p.m. Listen to live music at The Coach House. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

Sunday | 22

Monday | 23

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.

SEASIDE BOOK CLUB 10:30-11:30 a.m. The Book Club meets every fourth Monday of the month. Copies of the current selection are available at the service desk. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

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www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

Tuesday | 24 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 story-time. Registration is not required. Dana Point Library.

33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

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.

Wednesday | 25 PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Join the library for stories and activities for children 3-5 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. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

LECTURE: THE MOON 7-8:30 p.m. During this presentation, volunteer astronomer Spencer Murray will answer questions about the moon.

What is the origin of the moon? What causes the moon’s phases? Why don’t lunar eclipses occur every month? What is the moon’ effect on our tides? Why did

we send men to the moon, and what have we learned? Admission is free. Participants must be registered by 6 p.m. on Oct. 25.

Guest House at Rancho Mission Viejo.

Call for directions. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

Thursday | 26 YAPPY HOWL-O-WEEN 4-7 p.m. Bring the pup in their Halloween costumes for some fun. A panel of judges will determine which canine will take home the top prize. Donation to enter the contest is $10 per dog per category. The Ritz-Carlton. 1 Ritz Carlton Dr., Dana Point. www.ritzcarlton.com HALLOWEEN HAUNT SENIOR DINNER 5 p.m. Come dressed in a costume and enjoy dinner. There will be food and entertainment. Tickets are $10 each. Doors open at 4:45 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Dana Point Community Center.

34052 Del Obispo St., Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

CHAIN COMEDY IMPROV 8 p.m. Live improv comedy performance

by Chain Comedy Improv. This event is 21 and over. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. OC Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.542.8877. www.octavern.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.

At the Movies: Who Won the ‘Battle of the Sexes’?

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

O

ne year after winning “Best Actress” at the Academy Awards for the lighthearted musical La La Land, Emma Stone is back on screen with the biopic Battle of the Sexes. Reunited with her Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) co-star Steve Carell, who reunites with filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris from Little Miss Sunshine (2006), the film has been having a rather modest theater run despite the big names.

In 1973, Billie Jean King (Stone) is the most successful female tennis player in the world, while male tennis pro Bobby Riggs (Carell) is struggling with accepting retirement while also battling a gambling problem.

Right when executive director Jack Kramer (Bill Pullman) kicks out the women from the Association of Tennis Professionals, King and manager Gladys Heldman (Sarah Silverman) decide to open their own association.

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Photo: Melinda Sue Gordon/Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp.

Meanwhile, Riggs decides to challenge himself by offering a match against female players.

Elisabeth Shue and Andrea Riseborough co-star as the two leads’ love interests. Battle of the Sexes is a primarily light and fun period piece with more comic relief than serious drama. Carell and Stone are appropriately cast as their tennis characters, especially Stone who might actually be even better than she was in La La Land. The subplots, particularly on King’s and Riggs’ personal lives, could have used a little more development, but the chemistry between the actors almost makes up for it. For fans of tennis or 1970s pop culture, Battle of the Sexes is an easy viewing for a free weekend. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY FROM THE ARCHIVES

John and Wanda Hicks of Harbor Grill came out in support of their son Keegan’s wife Amelie Hicks, who began suffering from CFS after the birth of their grandchild. Photo: Erica Kohler Photo: Jonathan Morgan Jenkins Collection

Ocean Institute Host to Premiere of ‘Unrest’

HARBOR DEDICATION This image was taken during the dedication ceremony of the still-under-construction Dana Point Harbor, and the placing of the time capsule on Aug. 29, 1966.

Every week, the Dana Point Times will publish a historical photo. Online, DP Times will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photos, please provide information about the photo along with your name for credit to dritz@picketfencemedia.com. This week’s photo was provided by the Orange County Archives.

Award-winning documentary focuses on often misunderstood disease with local connection

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

O

n Oct. 15, The Ocean Institute hosted a premiere showing of Unrest, an award-winning documentary to be released this fall focused on the realities of living with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).

A sizeable crowd gathered to learn more about this often misunderstood disease which effects an estimated 30 million people worldwide. Difficult to diagnose

due to a current lack of identifiable unique biological markers, this event was a part of an effort to increase public awareness in an effort to increase federal funding so that sustainable research methods can be reached.

A variety of Dana Point community members as well as South Orange County CFS supporters gathered largely to recognize Dana Point resident and CFS sufferer Amelie Hicks. DP

Pet of the Week: Thelma

T

his scruffy little cutie is Thelma, a 3-year-old Jack Russell terrier mix looking for a new home. Thelma doesn’t let something like missing an eye get her down. She is always full of spunk and has a winning personality that is sure to win over anyone!

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

Thelma. Photo: Courtesy

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.

Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

Last week’s solution:

(Left to Right) Linda Tannenbaum of the Open Medicine Foundation, Mary Gelpi, Candi Pastorek, Amelie Hicks, Jane Katz, Jordana Gingrass, Seth Katz, Marilyn Simon-Gersuk. Photo: Erica Kohler

Dana Point Times October 20-26, 2017

Page 12

See the solution in next week’s issue.

www.danapointtimes.com

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 LIVING

Bob Mardian and his wife Ali enjoyed a reception on Oct. 18, in celebration of Wind & Sea Restaurant’s 45year anniversary. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Crossing Another Milestone Wind & Sea Restaurant celebrates its 45th anniversary

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

W

hen Bob Mardian, 70, owner of Wind & Sea Restaurant, first signed a 30-year lease in the newly created Dana Point Harbor in 1972, the then 25-year-old could never have anticipated being one of only two original lease holders still remaining within the Harbor today.

Close to three million mai tai’s later, Wind & Sea Restaurant is celebrating their 45-year anniversary this year, and Mardian is excited about the next chapter of his first business venture.

With the Orange County Board of Supervisors selecting the developer, operator and manager of the Harbor on Oct. 17, Mardian said there seems to be a fresh buzz around town that he hopes to continue to bring to his restaurant.

“There is an invigorated feeling. It feels like when we started here,” Mardian said.

With his only experience working in a restaurant coming from bartending for a fraternity brother in college, Mardian thought he was going to be a lawyer. But after graduating from Stanford University, Mardian took advantage of some affluent social networks that assisted him in funding the initial investment for Wind & Sea. Mardian said that in signing the lease, he was presented with an architectural build-out that would require an additional $225,000 to turn it into a functional restaurant.

“It took about a year to get a handle of everything, but I was confident from the beginning in our success,” Mardian said.

“They say you can tell if you are going to survive after year two or year three, but I never had any doubt.”

In 1985, Wind & Sea began opening during the day for lunch on their full service open-air patio. This was enabled by a timely reduction in Mardian’s rental percentage which allowed him the overhead to be able to stay open for more hours and service more customers.

In addition to the breathtaking views from the deck and the delicious food, Mardian credits a youthful atmosphere within Page 14

Wind & Sea Restaurant has been a harbor mainstay for 45 years. Photo: File

Wind & Sea for its successful longevity.

“It has a lively feel, it always has,” Mardian said. “Sure, some of the clientele and some of the employees have gotten older, but it has always had that youthful environment.”

Generational impact is partially responsible for this large customer base, and Mardian said that some of his original employees still come in to visit. Some have children who have worked at Wind & Sea and others have grandchildren who frequently visit as patrons.

Wind & Sea is celebrating this historic anniversary by taking the restaurant back to its origins, literally. From Oct. 22 to Oct. 25, Wind & Sea will be offering their original menu, including original pricing such as a sirloin for $3.95, in addition to all-day happy hour pricing. During this celebration, Wind & Sea will be operating under a first-come, first-served basis and reservations won’t be taken. 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 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.

2012 HONDA RUCKUS SCOOTER Excellent condition and barely used (323 miles). All black. $1700; cash only.

Email norbincalif@gmail.com if interested.

YOKOHAMA GEOLANDER A/T TIRES Set of four used Yokohama Geolander A/T tires with roughly 10k miles on them. $250 for the full set. Cash only. Email norbincalif@ gmail.com if interested.

CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet.

Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available. Mike 949-240-1545.

GARAGE SALES GIANT COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Once a year extravaganza where 200 homeowners are invited to sell their stuff. Saturday, October 21, 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Almost everything you can think of for sale! Follow the signs to the very end of San Juan Creek and take a right on Camino Chico and drive into the development. Gates open at 7. Drive on in and see what you can find as participating homeowners put out their good stuff on their driveway for easy browsing!

HELP WANTED SECURITY OFFICER San Juan Capistrano Day Shift 11am -7pm Entry level Training and Uniforms Provided Courteous person to work in a Hospital environment . Greeting people and making rounds. Start pay 13.50 per hr. Spanish speaking preferred. Casitas Security LLC PPO# 12290. 714-356-6606

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 20–26, 2017

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

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www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Visualizing Victory Dana Hills senior cross country runner Jack Landgraf building toward special season

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

I

n order to shed heavy expectations and cast off the weight of carrying one of the best cross country teams in the state on his shoulders, Jack Landgraf had to look inward.

The process started with a form of meditation and visualization. It’s a useful tool he picked up this season that helps him block out what he calls the “politics of racing”, which include articles by the media and chatter amongst teammates and fellow competitors.

They all expect him to be at the top of every race he competes in. His performance in a race can usually dictate whether the Dana Hills High School team will win or not every week. The team, and Landgraf, is that good.

The day before every race Landgraf, one of the most accomplished runners in school history, closes his eyes and blocks out the noise.

The senior distance runner sees himself toeing the starting line the next day. He visualizes his opening stretch. He contemplates how he will run up a specific hill, how he will take on a certain section of winding trail and where he could potentially make a move if he needs to overcome a frontrunner. It’s in these moments of planning that he feels calm and is able to

quiet the nerves.

“Over the last few weeks I’ve had a lot of stress on my mind. I’m worrying too much about everyone having these high expectations for me,” Landgraf said. “I just need to focus on myself and focus on the team … I just have to run my race my way.”

The first time Landgraf used the visualization tactic was before last weekend’s Orange County Championships. He was the defending meet champion and felt good about his plan, but was unsure about how he would run the finish. He had only seen the course once before and figured he could improvise his way down the final stretch. Turns out that would come back to bite him, as a slight struggle over the final 200 meters caused him to be overtaken by JSerra’s Anthony Grover and place second as an individual.

It was hard for Landgraf to be disappointed for long, he said, because the Dolphins’ well-rounded roster won the team title for a third straight year. His effort also proved to him that the visualization technique was working. It could be the spark he’s been looking for that sends him on his way to accomplishing his lofty goals, he thought.

Landgraf has always been a gifted runner. At John Malcolm Elementary in Laguna Niguel he would routinely be among the fastest kids in P.E. class. At Marco Forster Middle School, Landgraf completed the Los Angeles marathon while in the seventh and eighth grade.

He broke on to the Dolphins’ varsity team as a freshman. He is a three-time team captain and doubles as a standout in track and field. His time of 14 minutes, 18 seconds in the three-mile is a school record. His 9:04 two-mile time is the fourthfastest recorded at Dana Hills. He was the 2017 CIF-SS Division 1 3,200-meter track and field champion and has played an integral role on teams that finished runners-

Jack Landgraf is determined to lead the Dana Hills boys cross country team to CIF-SS and CIF State titles.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

Dana Point TimesOctober 20-26, 2017

Dana Hills senior Jack Landgraf is among the most accomplished cross country runners in program history.

Photo: Steve Breazeale

up at the last three CIF-SS and CIF State Division 1 Cross Country Championship meets.

The motto of this year’s Dolphin team is “Commitment”. Landgraf wears a blue Nike workout shirt with the word emblazoned on it to most practices. It’s a reminder that all of the Dolphins are on a quest to end the string of runner-ups at CIF together. Each one has to make sacrifices in order for them to get there, Landgraf said.

Landgraf works for Orange County Lifeguards and was able to structure his work schedule around his training, a luxury he wasn’t afforded as a first-year employee last year. He left his mornings, the preferred training time for distance runners, open and placed an emphasis on making every single workout no matter what.

It’s tough for him to stay home while the Dolphins football team plays on Friday nights or say no to a group of friends wanting to hang out the night before a big workout. But Landgraf knows his teammates are making the same choices and now saying no has become easier.

“I’ve kind of been focusing on myself and figuring out all my training so I can get state champ. But at the same time we have our team goal, which is to win state and go to nationals,” Landgraf said. “I think once I started to realize not only am I running for myself, but I’m running for my team to do better, that was huge.”

Determined to start his final high school campaign out strong, Landgraf blew away the field at the Dana Hills Invitational on Sept. 23, finishing in 14:17.9 to claim his home meet’s title for a third straight year.

Two weeks later, at the Clovis Invitational at Woodward Park in Fresno, he hit an unexpected snag. As he trudged up a hill at the two-mile mark he began to slow

Page 16

down. The front pack passed him and he “checked out mentally”. He finished nowhere near the top and now refers to it as the worst race of his life.

Struggling to find an answer as to why he uncharacteristically had a mental lapse while racing, Landgraf turned to his sports psychologist for help. The visualization technique he now uses was a product of their talks.

According to Dana Hills coach Craig Dunn, another piece to Landgraf’s success is something found at the core of every great runner—a strong will.

“You either have a positive attitude or you don’t,” Dunn explained. “Anyone can get out there and run, but to do what these guys do day-in and day-out and compete at the level they’re at definitely takes a lot on the mental side. It’s about putting one foot in front of the other and your attitude changes what happens in the end. He’s a great example of having that good attitude.”

The race at Clovis and his subsequent second-place individual finish at the OC Championships were turning points, Landgraf said. He used to hear all the noise, thinking he had to finish in first place.

Now he just focuses on what he can control, like running the race he envisions.

Landgraf and the Dolphins will run at the Riverside Invitational, site of November’s CIF-SS Finals, on Saturday, Oct. 21.

While out on the course Landgraf will be surveying every bit of the terrain.

He’ll remember where he can push his prodigious talent to overtake opposing runners. He’ll store that information away, hoping it will come in handy in just a few short weeks.

“This year I have huge goals and high expectations of myself,” Landgraf said. “I don’t think there is anything holding me back besides myself and making the right decisions when it comes to the race.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF

Dana Point

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surfers Stepping Up

PADDLE-OUT SCHEDULED FOR PATRICK STEELE DANA POINT TIMES

With fires ravaging Sonoma County, local surfers rally to help

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

N

obody’s prepared to lose everything. My mom keeps saying, “it’s just stuff,” but nobody’s ever really prepared for the devastation of a flood, or in the case of my folks, a fire.

Last week, about the time I usually sit down to write this column, I got a text from my mom in Santa Rosa: “We’ve been evacuated, but we’re safe,” she assured me. The Tubbs Fire was raging in Sonoma and Napa counties and quickly engulfed the family home, which burned to the ground in the matter of minutes—along with all of their neighbors’ houses. They had enough time to grab their computer, their last will and testament, their loving dog and the old lady that lived across the street. It’s fair to say they saved her life.

The fires in Sonoma and Napa Counties can only be described as apocalyptic. Entire neighborhoods with hundreds of homes have burned to the ground. Hotels, shopping centers, all gone in an instant. Now, a week later, as the fires continue to burn, rough estimates are that 6,000 houses have been lost and an upwards of 50,000 people have been displaced. For reference, about 35,000 people live in Dana Point.

When the fires broke out I received a remarkable amount of messages and support from friends asking what they could do to help. By midweek I told my mom, “I can’t hold back the flood, people want to help, I’m driving up.”

My wife and I decided to see if we could collect some stuff to bring a little relief to

GROM OF THE WEEK

MAC O’BRIEN

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

M

eet Mac O’Brien. “He is a really good surfer and he is really smart and he is a pretty nice kid,” says his twin sister, Ally.

The two of them attend Las Palmas Elementary School, and a couple weeks ago Ally suggested her brother, Mac, would be an ideal Grom of the Week. With a thirdplace finish at the recent SeaFest contest, the pint-sized ripper is on the up-and-up.

First getting on a board when he was 5 years old, Mac said he gets psyched on Dana Point Times October 20-26, 2017

A child’s bicycle rests against the remains of a subdivision in Sonoma County, where wildfires caused tens of thousands of people to evacuate last week. Photo: Jake Howard

family and friends. We made a Facebook post, listed a few items and directed people to drop off stuff at her Pilates studio in San Juan Capistrano.

Less than 24 hours after hosting the Stoke-O-Rama surf contest, and 48 hours after loading 700 surfboards into a container bound for underprivileged kids in South Africa, Dane Gudauskas was the first to respond. He loaded us up with boxes of new Vans, new jackets, Positive Vibe Warriors T-shirts, blankets and so much other goodness. From there we were rolling. Our local surf community rallied in a huge way.

Friends that I’ve surfed with and worked with for years came out of the woodwork. I don’t know if they wanted to have the spotlight shone on them here, they probably don’t, but I’m going to do it anyway. I’ve always known Art Brewer was the man, but he really rose to the occasion. Rallying friends and neighbors, by the time I got to his house on Friday afternoon to pick up relief supplies his front yard looked like a Red Cross center. Other

surfing “when the waves are good, I’m having fun with my friends, and the vibes are good!”

We couldn’t agree more. Typically surfing with his family and friends, he does admit that he’d happily head to the beach with “anyone who will go surf!”

Church, Lowers, Punta Mita and Dragon’s Teeth are among Mac’s favorite surf spots. He concedes that he’s pretty much stoked to surf “anywhere the waves are.” As far as dream spots, he’d love to get himself into the tank at Kelly Slater’s wave pool.

Fluent in Spanish, stoked and styling, Mac’s a born surfer. And with a sister as supportive as Ally, he’s going places! DP

local surf photographers like Tom Servais and J.P. Van Swae were more than generous. Surf industry insider Bruce Beach stepped up, and his boys, Max (last week’s Grom of the Week) and 2-year-old Albee, even added some of their favorite things to the pile. Frankie D’Andrea, a Bay Area native, got behind the effort and leveraged his vast network. My wife’s pilates clients and friends were equally generous.

Ultimately, we ended up filling my truck and a friend’s Suburban with relief supplies. We drove up early Saturday morning and hit the ground running in the afternoon. Maverick’s water safety guru Frank Quirarte met us up there. He’d also collected relief supplies. We put a plan into action and got busy.

My mom’s good friend, the director of human resources at Korbel Champagne, gave us access to their facility to serve as a distribution point. We leveraged all of our local connections and got the word out to people in the Santa Rosa community who were still reeling from the fires.

The stories were heartbreaking. We

A celebration of life paddle-out will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22 at T-Street for friends of Patrick Steele.

Patrick grew up surfing T-Street and resided in San Clemente with his wife and son. He died suddenly while in the hospital for pain treatment.

Those who knew Patrick are invited Patrick Steele, to celebrate his life 1975-2017. and the power of Photo: Courtesy the resurrection. A formal memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Dec. 9 at Presbyterian Church of the Master, located at 26051 Marguerite Parkway in Mission Viejo.

doled out as many hugs as we did toothbrushes. Our goal was always to provide people with a few necessities to help them get their feet under them: a couple articles of clothing, toiletries, a blanket, a case of water, etc. I think our little surf crew accomplished this. Because there are so many people currently living out of their cars, it was important not to overload them, while still providing enough comfort and support to help them start moving forward. The need is massive and overwhelming as this disaster continues to unfold.

The Red Cross, FEMA, the National Guard, churches and other community relief groups are hard at work helping people affected by the fires, but surfers are also exceptionally well-suited for working in disaster zones. I’ve never been more proud to be a surfer than I was this week. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 64-69 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Outlook: Wave heights are fun size but gradually fading the back half of the week with a blend of SSW and NW swell. Morning winds are light with building onshore flow each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

Mac O’Brien. Photo: Courtesy of the O’Brien family

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