December 8, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

December 8–14, 2017 YO U

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Dana Point Welcomes Holiday Season PAGE 19 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 49

‘Under the Radar’ Frequent dwellers of State Parks mull changes to policies E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 7

Matt Houser speaks about his journey from Las Vegas to the California coast, where he’s been trying to find places to sleep on a nightly basis.

Houser said he has frequented State Park locations on his trek southward. Photo: Eric Heinz

Richard Viczorek Named Mayor of Dana Point EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Local Residents Take Action, Establish ‘Homeless Challenge’ EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

‘The Big One’ Vintage Surf Swap Returns to Doheny DP SURF/PAGE 24

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

DP EYE ON DP Dana Point Point Dana

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING their services. Denny was also authorized to initiate negotiations with Family Assistance Ministries for “targeted outreach services providing overnight support and homeward bound relocation assistance.”—DR

Viczorek Named Next Mayor of Dana Point; Muller Named Pro Tem

There is potential for a smoking ordinance to be passed at the next Dana Point City Council Meeting. This ordinance would not have jurisdiction over the beaches managed by the city and state. Photo: Daniel Ritz

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week Local Residents Take Action, Establish ‘Homeless Challenge’ THE LATEST: Toni Nelson, founder of Capo Cares, and Mercy House have partnered to establish the “Homes for the Homeless Challenge” in an effort to aid homelessness in Dana Point.

Nelson explained this challenge as, “getting directly to the end game.”

A fund has been established for Dana Point residents willing to aid Mercy House’s efforts to be directed specifically to the 64 homeless persons identified in Dana Point by a recent Mercy House study.

A few methods of donation have been made available, which include: a one-time donation of $100 (or more) to Mercy House to rapidly rehouse a homeless person living on the streets of Dana Point; a donation of $68 (or more) to place a chronically homeless person into permanent supportive housing; an annual donation of $68 to Mercy House to maintain continued permanent supportive housing for a chronically homeless and disabled person.

Funds will be used to pay for ongoing rental and utility assistance, and case management to create pathways toward continued housing stabilization.

Nelson’s estimates calculate that roughly a third of Dana Point’s population (10,000 people) can fund the estimated $680,000 needed annually to house the 46 Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

people in need of permanent housing.

An itemized accounting report of funds collected and spent will be given to the city of Dana Point Homeless Task Force chairman.

WHAT’S NEXT: As of print deadline on Dec. 8, more than $1,700 dollars has been raised by 21 supporters. Learn more about the “Homes for the Homeless Challenge” by visiting www.commitchange.com.

—Daniel Ritz

Mercy House Full-Time Homeless Outreach Services Contract Amended, Extended

THE LATEST: In the fifth hour of a jampacked City Council agenda on Dec. 5, City Council named Richard Viczorek as the next mayor of Dana Point to lead the city in 2018.

Joe Muller was named mayor pro tem.

Viczorek was elected to Dana Point City Council on Nov. 4, 2014, and most recently served as the city’s mayor pro tem in 2016.

Muller was also elected to City Council in November of 2014. This will be his firsttime service as mayor pro tem.

This reorganization sets Council back into what was recognized as an established traditional rotation where the mayor pro tem becomes the next mayor. Viczorek held the position of mayor pro tem in 2016, but did not get selected for mayor after Debra Lewis and Paul Wyatt were named mayor and mayor pro tem, respectively.

WHAT’S NEXT: The next City Council meeting will be held on Jan. 16. —DR

Council Conducts First Reading of Smoking Ban Ordinance

THE LATEST: In their meeting on Dec. 5, Dana Point City Council unanimously approved the ratification and amendment of a current part-time contract with Mercy House for homeless outreach services to a full-time contracted position through Dec. 31, 2018.

Former Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt, who leads the Homeless Task Force (HTF) that recommended this action, admitted that when the HTF was established, he may not have known what he was in for.

Praised for this first large-scale action by City Council members and public speakers, Wyatt said that he was excited to continue the pursuit of quantifiable data to validate the HTF’s recommended action’s efficiency.

Dana Point Police Chief Lt. Russ Chilton explained to City Council that one of the most important things in managing the homeless population is establishing and maintaining contact, which would be encouraged through this action.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Manager Mark Denny said that the finalized format of this full-time contract is yet to be established, and that he will be working with Mercy House’s professional insight on how to best utilize

THE LATEST: After more than an hour-long debate at the City Council meeting on Dec. 5, a first reading was held of an ordinance amending chapter 6.40 of the Dana Point municipal code relating to the regulation and prohibition of smoking in the city.

Dana Point City Manager Mark Denny said that city staff’s research of secondhand smoke and the health impacts supported the initiatives within the ordinance.

Numerous public speakers offered testimony to the impact of cigarettes on public health and the environment.

Councilman Muller said that requested research had not been supplied for the ordinance to be read. He expressed concerns of the impact on tourism, and a lack of cohesiveness with established county and state precedents. With most of the beaches of Dana Point managed by the county or the state, jurisdiction and enforcement on the most impacted regions of the city were areas of concern that Muller felt were not addressed.

Councilman, and newly appointed mayor, Richard Viczorek seconded these enforcement concerns.

“I’m not a smoker, never have been,” said Viczorek. “But I’m not for symbolic

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laws. Is this a littering problem? Or a smoking problem.”

The first reading of the ordinance passed with approval from former Mayor Debra Lewis, former Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt and Councilman John Tomlinson.

Councilman Viczorek voted no on the ordinance. Councilman Muller abstained.

WHAT’S NEXT: There will be a second reading, as required by law, of the smoking ordinance at the City Council meeting on Jan. 16. —DR

School District Board Votes to Retain Current Leadership THE LATEST: On Dec. 6, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously, with Trustee Gila Jones absent, to keep the board’s current leadership in place for the upcoming year.

For the second year in a row, Trustee Martha McNicholas, of Laguna Niguel, will serve as president; Gila Jones, of San Juan Capistrano, will serve as vice president; and Patricia Holloway, of San Clemente, will serve as the board clerk.

Trustee Amy Hanacek initially nominated Trustee Gary Pritchard for president, which was seconded by Holloway, but a substitute motion was made by the board’s newest member, Judy Bullockus, to maintain the current slate of officers.

“I believe that this time, consistency and stability by way of officer continuity would be helpful in policy making, planning and evaluation oversight going forward,” Bullockus said.

The majority of the trustees agreed with Bullockus, and the motion passed 5-1-1 with Holloway opposed and Jones absent.

“I do think consistency right now is what is needed most,” McNicholas said.

Trustee Jim Reardon, who teleconferenced into the meeting, said he felt that the operation of the board over the last year had been “exemplary.”

“It’s a group who truly has reached a vision together, and I think everybody on the board makes a significant contribution,” Reardon said. “The main issue we have before us is the unity of this school district and working together with our teachers, with all of our employees, and with the community, to serve students.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The officers’ next term will last through December 2018.

The board’s next meeting is set for Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. at district headquarters, located at 33122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano.

FIND OUT MORE: For more stories on the board’s other actions Wednesday night, visit www.thecapistranodispatch.com.

—Allison Jarrell www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Neal Driscoll, Ph.D., a professor at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California-San Diego, says South County residents including those in the area surrounding the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station should be prepared for earthquakes. Photo: File

News Next Door WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN CLEMENTE

Professor of Geosciences Tells South County to Be Prepared in Case of Earthquakes Fault lines along the coast of South Orange County have been researched as having the capabilities of setting off a chain reaction of earthquakes near the coastline.

Neal Driscoll, Ph.D., a professor with the geosciences research division at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California-San Diego, gave a lecture at San Clemente City Hall on Nov. 28 to area residents.

Driscoll and a team of researchers combed the ocean for nearly a year using new sonar technology to map seismic activity and fault lines along the coastline, which found certain activity is not poised to cause higher levels of earthquakes than past research claimed. He cited research from the 1980s that claimed an Oceanside Blind Thrust was capable within a few dozen miles of San Clemente that wasn’t showing the same results under the new technology.

Back in February, Driscoll gave a presentation at a Community Engagement Panel meeting that summarized his initial research and showed the capabilities of earthquakes in the region and their proximity to San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).

Although the activity was found unlikely to produce earthquakes higher than a magnitude of 7.3 or 7.4, Driscoll warned that magnitude is capable of causing tsunamis that could heavily damage coastal developments.

Driscoll also spoke about fault lines that are located underneath inland areas that could also send shockwaves all the way from Temecula to Los Angeles.

—Eric Heinz Page 4

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

City Settles Two Hotel Lawsuits, Allowing Kimpton Litigation to Move Forward The city of San Juan Capistrano recently announced that two lawsuits involving the previously approved Urban Village project have been settled.

The City Council initially approved Urban Village’s San Juan Hotel & Villas project—which was planned for the plot that today is slated for the Hotel Capistrano by Kimpton—in late 2014. The city was later sued by a group of residents known as Save Our Historic Town Center (SOHTC) that sought to overturn the approval, arguing that the project was inconsistent with the city’s General Plan. A judge issued a writ of mandate to SOHTC, and the developer decided to appeal the decision.

The developer also sued the city after the project’s entitlements were later set aside.

City officials said the settlement agreement with the developer “involves the return of a portion of the developer’s entitlement costs in exchange for a dismissal of the developer’s lawsuit.”

With those earlier lawsuits settled, litigation from developer Bill Griffith that was filed in October 2016 challenging the city’s approval of the Kimpton hotel project can now progress toward a resolution.

On Oct. 6 of this year, Orange County Superior Court Judge Kim Dunning issued a stay in the Kimpton case, temporarily halting the proceeding. Dunning’s reasoning was that the same issue at the heart of the Kimpton challenge—whether or not the Historic Town Center Master Plan was properly incorporated into the city’s General Plan amendments—was also being argued in the Save Our Historic Town Center suit, which was waiting to go before the Court of Appeals. Dunning refused to move forward while the other case was unresolved.

The city filed notice of the lawsuit settlements with the court on Nov. 14, and a few days later a status conference for the case was scheduled for Jan. 12 at 9 a.m. with Judge Dunning.—Allison Jarrell www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

‘Under the Radar’

Frequent dwellers of State Parks eye new reservation system, policy changes

BY DANIEL RITZ AND ERIC HEINZ, DANA POINT TIMES

A

s summer crowds recede from South Orange County beaches, California State Parks and its patrons prepare for statewide and local changes that could affect more than campers attending the parks.

Brian Ketterer, executive chief of law enforcement and chief of Southern Field operations, helped clarify some of the rules for camping limitations at California State Parks.

Current camping policies allow people a 30-day stay limit per calendar year per site. No one can register in a single campground for more than 30 days per calendar year (Jan.1–Dec. 31). For example, a person could stay at Doheny State Beach for 30 days and then San Clemente State Beach for another 30 and so forth.

Some people at State Parks station their RV for the day, but then have to park somewhere else in the evening, as the parks close for day use at 10 p.m. People typically return early in the morning to find a spot. For year-round day pass holders, there is no limit to how many days they can enter a park.

One of these year-round day pass users, who wished to remain anonymous, said the Doheny State Beach parking lot is home to, “easily between 30 to 40 of us that are here every day.”

John Goit, 59, of Newport Beach, said that he has been a year-round day pass user and camper for over 15 years. Living in his 1984 Winnebago while traveling up and down the California coast, the retired school teacher and Navy veteran said he enjoys following the seasons.

“It’s been getting harder though, especially during the busy season. I’ve been ‘shoo’d’ away. I don’t have a lot of money and I really depend on the parks. I just try to keep moving, stay out of the way and under the radar,” Goit said. “To be honest, I don’t know what else I would do. This is literally everything I have.”

There are some parks that have sevenday consecutive stay limits during peak use, and the length of those limits are at the discretion of the superintendents for each park.

“Many, not all, parks have a seven-day maximum consecutive stay limit during peak use periods,” Ketterer said. “Peak use is prescribed by each district based on historical visitation trends and reservation data. Peak use is typically the high use months of the year and any holidays which Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

At Doheny State Beach, people who live in RVs and other vehicles said there are easily 30 to 40 people who utilize their day passes during open hours, and have to exit each night. Photo: Eric Heinz

have a lot of money and I really depend on the parks. I just try to keep moving, stay “outI don’t of the way and under the radar. To be honest, I don’t know what else I would do. This is literally everything I have. ” —John Goit

traditionally have an influx of visitors wishing to utilize the park unit.”

There are also “Hike-N-Bike” passes that are first come, first served to provide 24-hour respite for bikers and hikers.

A new reservation system, Reserve California, will digitally track the number of days used by each registered camper.

The system is likely to be fully in place by the new year. Not all State Parks are linked into that system yet, and according to the website, more features will be added through March 1.

People will have to enter a profile and provide identification in order to register through the reservation system, which could make it easier for State Parks to track people who overstay.

“In the past, these policies were tracked by the individual park units,” Ketterer said.

Matt Houser, originally from Las Vegas, is one of the California State Parks’ thousands of nomadic park patrons.

Beginning in Los Angeles, Houser has spent months on foot traveling south toward Ocean Beach in San Diego. He said on occasion, he has stayed within the State Park system as he headed south, specifically Corona Del Mar and Doheny state beaches.

“It’s been great,” Houser said, “I get to wake up to the ocean. I’m meeting new people. I come and go as I please. Ever since I left Vegas and lost all my money,

I’ve felt free. This (lifestyle) saved me.”

The free-flowing and undocumented nature of a nomadic lifestyle such as Houser’s, historically ingrained in the culture of many of California’s state parks, could be affected by the digitalized, and more organized, tracking system. Though, that doesn’t prevent people from sneaking in.

“Should a registered camper reserve or be found to be over the maximum stay limits, State Parks attempts to handle the issue at the lowest level,” Ketterer said.

“Our first course of action is to notify the user and provide them information, and block reservations while offering other locations where camping may still be available to the individual.”

Ketterer said if an overstay is noticed after the camper has registered, State Parks will meet with the camper, explain the issue and refund the remainder of their stay and require the person, property or vehicle to leave.

“Rarely does a park unit cite for illegal camping if a stay limit is violated,” he said. “Although the law provides a broad definition, a person may be cited for illegal camping or non-payment of fees or several other misdemeanor violations of the law.”

Ketterer said State Parks still relies on “quality community policing” staff does on a daily basis within the campgrounds. He added State Parks is not working on new policies on the maximum stay limits for

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visitors.

“Our dedicated staff works diligently to make sure all park visitors enjoy their stay, whether it be for hiking, camping or off-highway vehicle use while following the rules each park has in place,” Ketterer said.

The new reservation system will likely eliminate any confusion, as park administrators at both Doheny and San Clemente State beaches gave conflicting answers as to the limits on days people can camp.

On a park-by-park basis, some areas are beginning to prohibit campers or RVs longer than 25-feet long. Surf Beach at San Onofre State Park and portions of Doheny State Beach have already enacted policies limiting where longer RVs can park.

Locally, the restrictions “apply to two areas; the southern portions of Doheny State Beach and the surf parking of San Onofre State Beach,” said Todd Lewis, the State Parks superintendent of the Orange Coast District.

Lewis said some of the peak days can’t accommodate the vehicles and their size could restrict access in and out of the areas.

“It needs to be a safe situation,” Lewis said. “We’re still refining the specific details.”

More information on California State Parks can be found on www.parks.ca.gov.

DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Division of Boating and Waterways Now Accepting California Boater Card Applications California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is now accepting applications for the California Boater Card. The card verifies that its holder has successfully taken and passed an approved boater safety education course. Once issued, the California Boater Card remains valid for an operator’s lifetime.

On Sept. 18, 2014, Governor Edmund G. Brown, Jr. signed into law Senate Bill 941, which prohibits the operation of motorized vessels in California without a valid boater card developed and issued by DBW. The new mandatory boating safety education law will go into effect Jan. 1.

The law will be phased in by age. The first group required to take the exam are boaters 20 years of age and younger. Each year after January 2018, a new age group will be added to those who are required to possess a valid card.

By 2025, all persons who operate a motorized vessel on California waters will be required to have one. The cost of the lifetime card is $10, and all the money goes toward developing and operating the program. By law, DBW cannot profit from the program.

Boaters have an option to apply before or after taking an approved boating safety course. For more information on the new mandatory boating safety education law, including a current list of approved California boating courses and exemptions to the law, visit www.californiaboatercard. com. A toll free telephone support line is also available at 844.421.8333.

Arizona Man Begins Walk Across America From Dana Point Feb. 1 Beginning Feb. 1, Michael Cappi, 66, a Sedona, Arizona resident, is walking from Dana Point to Boston, Massachusetts in an effort to raise money to build a pet-friendly safe house for abused kids with pets. Cappi is expecting this voyage to take more than 8 months, walking approximately 1520 miles a day with the assistance of willing volunteers along the way. Cappi was excited when asked about why he chose Dana Point as his starting point.

“I am starting in Dana Point because it’s a beautiful town, a safe town, and the quickest route. I could not imagine a better place to begin such a journey.” Cappi said the idea was born from an experience when we was racing in the Senior Olympics in 2015.

Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9

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, DECEMBER 11

PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 6 p.m. There will be a Planning Commission meeting in Council Chambers at Dana Point City Hall.

33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 210.

This meeting’s agenda can be seen on www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12

California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways is now accepting applications for the California Boater Card. Photo: Tony Tribolet

Cappi estimated almost 40 percent of abused kids are kept in harm’s way because shelters are not equipped to accept pets. “That is simply unacceptable,” Cappi said.

Just A Penny Please, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, has committed $250,000 to enable the Verde Valley Sanctuary in Cottonwood to create a safe environment for kids with pets. To learn more about or to support Cappi’s trip, visit www.justapennyplease. org/author/cappimc.

Red Cross Seeks Blood Donations this Holiday Season The American Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to give the gift of life by giving blood this month.

In December, donations often decline, but the needs of patients remain steady. To encourage donations, all those who give blood or platelets Dec. 21 through Jan. 7 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross Tshirt, while supplies last.

Below are the dates, times and locations of upcoming blood donation opportunities in the area: • Dec. 18: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Laguna Niguel Public Library, 30341 Crown Valley Parkway, Laguna Niguel • Dec. 20: 1-7 p.m., Avana San Clemente Apartments, 1100 Calle Del Cerro, San Clemente • Dec. 21: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Mission Hospital, 26726 Crown Valley Parkway, Mission Viejo

• Dec. 21: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saddleback Lanes, 25402 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo • Dec. 22: 2-7 p.m., San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente For more information or to make an appointment, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.redcrossblood.org or call 1.800.733.2767.

Help FAM Make Christmas Special Many local children in need will not have a Christmas other than what is provided through Family Assistance Ministries (FAM). Local residents can help by stopping by FAM’s office to register for the Adopt-a-Family program, drop off an unwrapped toy for children or a gift certificate for a teenager who may not otherwise receive any Christmas gifts. For those who are not adopted, residents can help by donating new unwrapped toys for ages 0-11 or gift cards worth $20 to be given at the FAM Christmas party by Santa’s elves. Also needed for this event are cookies, decoration items and supplies. Donations are also accepted. Contact FAM at 949.492.8477 or visit them at 1030 Calle Negocio in San Clemente.

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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BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING 7-9 p.m. Every Tuesday. Because I Love You (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, DECEMBER 13

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. www. monarchbeachsunriserotary.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14

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, DECEMBER 15

LIBRARY COLORING CLUB 10am-noon. Let out your inner artist while surrounded by books and good company! All coloring materials provided. Free! No registration required. Dana Point Public Library.

33841 Niguel Rd, Dana Point www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

Educational Excellence on Display

T

hough it’s taken many years to accomplish, the Santa Ana Unified School District, with 57,250 students – the largest in relatively prosperous Orange County, California – recently announced a phenomenal achievement: a record graduation rate, with 95 percent of its students receiving their high school diplomas. For a school district in which many of the students traditionally fail to complete their courses of study, this appears to be heartening news.

Checking the performance of the graduating class a year earlier, school reports showed test results in English language revealing their proficiency to be at 39.11 percent, which amounts to a collective

Letters to the Editor DEVELOPMENT FEES SHOULD NOT BE USED TO FUND TOLL ROAD EVA O’KEEFE, San Clemente

Most people know that the toll roads exist. What most people don’t know is how they get their money. The toll roads get their money in three ways. The first way is they sell bonds to investors. The second way is through tolls. The third way is through development fees. Development fees are essentially a tax (fee) on new homes, businesses or substantial remodels. For example, many of the homes in Forster Ranch and Talega had to pay $5,500 to the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) because we were in the TCA zone. The new homes in Rancho Mission Viejo pay about the same fee of $5,000. When John Wayne was remodeled in 2012, a dispute arose between Subway, Caterina’s, Paradies, Vino Volo and Hudson Group for $157,000 in fees to the TCA. The restaurants/shops say the fees were calculated in an absurd way, and they wanted their money back. A court case decided this and they lost. They had to pay the TCA. Imagine if all these fees would be used for not just the TCA and their bloated salaDana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

dead failure. Their scores on mathematics were, if possible, even worse: 18.85 percent. We must only wonder how they managed to improve so dramatically that 19 out of 20 of them received high school diplomas.

Perhaps a little investigation into nearby Los Angeles Unified School System may give a few hints. In case you’re unaware, three-fourths of LA Unified students who, in 2016, took the statewide Common Corealigned tests for math, and two-thirds who took the tests for English, failed to meet state standards, this according to data released by the California Department STRAIGHT TALK of Education. NonetheBy Al Jacobs less they achieved a 77 percent graduation rate in 2016, the largest in recent history, with predictions of a 100 percent graduation rate in the future. This, of course, defies logic. The only way it’s possible is that the school simply delivers a certificate of graduation to everyone, irrespective of performance. Could it be Santa Ana is emulating Los Angeles, or is that unthinkable?

During my ten years as a classroom instructor, I made a fascinating discovery.

My bright students who worked hard did well. Those who were bright but slacked off, as well as those who were not particularly bright but worked hard, managed to get by. Nothing is more predictable than that a methodical program by professional educators, gaming the system to show achievement, will result in ever greater sums of money being pumped into the process – with the obvious intent these dollars will find their way to the perpetrators. However, it must invariably end with the sort of results we now witness. Large numbers of smiling graduates is not the purpose of schooling, for education is not a collective endeavor, it’s a singular achievement.

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

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

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

Welcome Back to Picket Fence Media, Victor

BY RACHAEL MATTICE, GROUP MANAGING EDITOR FOR PICKET FENCE MEDIA

R

eaders, please join me in formally welcoming Victor Carno back to Picket Fence Media as the Calendar Editor for the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch. Victor joins the newsroom again, having previously worked as a freelance contributor for our editorial department on all three newspapers. During his previous tenure with Picket Fence Media, Victor worked on compiling and writing the popular, and now nonexistent, Sheriff’s blotter, interviewed musicians for monthly previews for our local venue The Coach House and covered various sporting

events. Hailing originally from Lake Forest and recently graduating from Point Loma Nazarene University with a degree in communications, Victor is eager to dig his heels into the world of journalism for our readers in South Orange County.

On behalf of the editorial department and the rest of the Picket Fence Media team, we are excited to have him commanding our Getting Out sections and in the battalion with us.

Victor can be reached at picketfencecalendar@gmail.com. DP

ries almost twice as much as the Caltrans director, but with lobbyists, public relations and sponsoring every event in the community. They could even use it to offer honey baked hams to entice drivers to use the toll roads to the overall regional mobility. Let’s not forget, the TCA builds toll roads only. Enough. Pay down the bonds, make the toll roads free as promised and truly improve mobility in the region! Also, you can get the coupon online for the honey baked ham.

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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.

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, Victor Carno, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 10, Issue 49. 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 Dana Point Point YOUR

SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

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

Friday | 08 LIL’ ELVES WORKSHOP 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The San Clemente Community Center is transforming into Santa’s Workshop for one special day for crafting and meeting Santa’s little helpers.

Children ages 3-5 years old are encouraged to stop by for cookie decorating, gift making and games. Tickets are $15 per child. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente.

949.361.8264. www.san-clemente.org.

LIVE MUSIC: WATERMAN’S HARBOR 4-7 p.m. Join Waterman’s Harbor for live music with Hans & Janine every Friday.

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

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

949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’ 7 p.m. Laguna Niguel Community Theatre and Coast Hills Church present A Christmas Carol adapted by Lynn Stevens. Join Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghost of his former business partner as they visit the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future in an effort to warm Scrooge’s heart. The show runs all weekend at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. $10. Coast Hills Church. 5 Pursuit, Aliso Viejo. 949.415.6281. www.lagunanigueltheatre.org.

The 43rd annual Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights will be held Dec. 8, 9, 15 and 16. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. and the boat parade starts at 7:30 p.m. Photo: File

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8: DANA POINT BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS 4:30 p.m. Kick off the holiday season by attending the 43rd annual Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights. This year’s theme of “A Superhero Holiday” is sure to inspire heroic themed boats, holiday games and crafts. Be sure to find Santa for a free photo. Festivities start at 4:30 p.m. and the parade begins at 7:30 p.m. See site for boat registration. Dana Point Harbor. 34555 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com.

ed veterans, is hosting a local charity ride at Soul Cycle in Newport Beach. Registration is $50 per rider, which includes complimentary shoe rentals, prizes and a swag bag. All proceeds will go to wounded veterans. 1177 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach. 949.424.2126. www.standforvets.org.

SADDLEBACK JAZZ COMBOS 7:30 p.m. Stop by the McKinney Theatre at Saddleback College to listen to some student arranged and composed jazz music. Be sure to stick around after the show for jazz trivia and the opportunity to win some cool prizes. Admission is $10 for general admission. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4656. www.saddleback.edu/arts.

WREATH MAKING 1:30-3:30 p.m. The Tree of Life Nursery is putting on their annual wreath making workshop to kick off this season’s holiday activities. Craft your very own wreath made completely of native Californian plant materials. Each wreath costs $40.

Tree of Life Nursery. 33201Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

Saturday | 09

SAN CLEMENTE CHORAL SOCIETY HOLIDAY CONCERT 3 p.m. Enjoy an hour of holiday music as the San Clemente Choral society presents their holiday concert, “Tidings of Joy,” at the San Clemente Presbyterian

HOLIDAY SOUL CYCLE CHARITY RIDE 1-2 p.m. Stand for Vets, a South Orange County nonprofit organization for woundDana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

Church. Led by Dr. Laura Harrison, the San Clemente Choral Society provides and promotes music education throughout South Orange County. Tickets are $15. 119 N. Avenida de la Estrella, San Clemente.

949.272.8435. www.sccs-arts.org.

HOLIDAY ICE SKATING 4-8 p.m. The Youth Advisory Board invites the public for a weekend on ice at the Riding Park for their first annual Holiday Ice Skating. Skate rentals are $5 per person and all proceeds benefit the underserved youth of San Juan Capistrano. Admission is free. Riding Park. 30753 La Pata Avenue, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

SOUTH COAST SINGERS PRESENTS: ‘PEPPERMINT DREAMS’ CONCERT 4 p.m. Enjoy live music featuring classic holiday favorites and a few new songs as well. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $16 for seniors. St. Andrews by-theSea. 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente.

949.492.2537. www.sabts.org.

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HOLIDAY JAZZ CONCERT 6:30 p.m. The Saddleback Big Band, under the direction of Joey Sellers, presents their holiday jazz concert featuring unique arrangements of classic holiday songs.

Tickets are $15. McKinney Theatre, Saddleback College. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4656. www.saddleback.edu/arts.

NOEL NIGHT CHRISTMAS CONCERT 7 p.m. The St. Edward the Confessor Parish Church Music Ministry presents their annual Noel Night Christmas Concert, directed by Rick Dellefield and performed by both the adult and the children’s choirs. The concert will be featuring songs off of their new Christmas album, Rejoice and Be Merry, which will be available for $10 after the concert. A reception with Christmas treats will be served after the concert in Knight Hall.

Admission is free. St. Edward the Confessor. 33926 Calle la Primavera, Dana Point.

949.496.1307. www.stedward.com.

(Cont. on page 14) www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 12)

Sunday | 10 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.

FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, plants and artisanal goods from organic growers along the north side of Avenida Del Mar. Parking is a premium, attendance is free. 243 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.361.8264. www.san-clemente.org.

GINGERBREAD EXTRAVAGANZA 4 p.m. Every year, the Ritz-Carlton puts on a Gingerbread Extravaganza, but this year Executive Pastry Chef Sylvain Haage showcases a “today’s attention on climate” theme. Clean and sustainable energy will be represented through Californian landscapes created entirely out of gingerbread and sweets. On display until Jan. 2. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.

JUST LIKE ME JINGLE JAM 5-7:30 p.m. The Just Like Me (JLM) Foundation is a newly formed nonproft in Dana Point that is focused on enriching the lives of teens and adults with special needs. JLM will be putting on their holiday dance party, Jingle Jam, at St. Andrew’s by-the-Sea. The event includes a DJ, a photo booth and crafts. Admission is free. 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente. 949.492.2537. www.justlikemefoundation.org.

Monday | 11 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. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

Tuesday | 12 BEND & BREW 6-7 p.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 fellow yogis and beer drinkers. $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing.com.

DREIDELS AND DONUTS 4:30 p.m. The Chabad Jewish Center of Laguna Beach is hosting an event for children of all ages. Come to the JYZ Youth Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

Zone at the Chabad Center for a menorah lighting, Chanukah crafting, donut decorating and dreidel spins. Admission is free. 30804 South Pacific Coast Highway, Laguna Beach. 949.499.0770. www.chabadoflaguna.org.

ON THE MENU

LUCHADORE DOG AT JD’S KITCHEN AND BAR

Wednesday | 13 CASA KIDS: STORY TIME 10-11 a.m. Casa Romantica welcomes children ages 1-7 for a picture book reading every Wednesday in their courtyard. A question and answer session and a dance will be held after each story. Admission is free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente.

949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

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

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

949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

FREE COMEDY 8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Bloom’s Irish Sports Bar with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120.

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

Thursday | 14 TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All seniors 55 or older are welcome to join the Table Tennis Club at the Shorecliff Terrace Mobile Home Park.

Any skill level is welcomed and entry is free. 3000 Calle Nuevo, San Clemente.

949.481.2275. jnl5555@yahoo.com.

LIVE THEATER: ‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS’ 8 p.m. Join the Cabrillo Playhouse for their joyful tribute to the holiday season with a theatrical performance of Twas the Night Before Christmas. The performance follows a mouse, an elf, and a young girl through the classic Christmas poem. Performances are every Thursday through Sunday until Dec. 17. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $15 for students. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

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.

The Luchadore Dog by JD’s Kitchen and Bar. Photo: Eric Heinz

BY ERIC HEINZ, DANA POINT TIMES

I

magery of a colorful wrestler may be a robust description for a hotdog, but the combination of flavor in the Luchadore Dog by JD’s Kitchen and Bar is of formidable strength.

Much like the various items on JD’s menu, the Luchadore Dog is packed with toppings and doesn’t feign its intent. The dog is loaded with its sidekick, bacon, and teams up with grilled shishito peppers and onions, slathered in guacamole, cooling garlic aioli, cotija fresco and cilantro.

Supposedly, the only arch nemesis to this

legion of food is gravity, as the weighted Luchadore’s toppings slide off easily toward your face when tilting it downward—a welcome dog-pile, if you will.

JD’s has been open for about a month, and it already has consistent patronage, opening at 5 p.m. and staying open until 2 a.m. on all nights, offering quality late-night eats.

The business also offers a variety of local brews and vegetarian options.

JD’s Kitchen and Bar 215 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.243.5692, www.scjds.net

At the Movies: Films to Fit the Christmas Season

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

W

hat makes a movie a Christmas essential? Well, of course, they usually revolve around the Christmas season, like Miracle on 34th Street (1947), National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) and Love Actually (2003). Then there are Christmas classics that only feature the holiday in a single act of the film, like Holiday Inn (1942), Meet Me in St. Louis (1944), The Bells of St. Mary’s (1945) and It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). Next are the traditional popular movies set during December where the plots don’t have anything to do with the holiday, but are still viewed during the month: Trading Places (1983), Lethal Weapon (1987) and Die Hard (1988), to name a few.

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Going even farther, there are the movies that have absolutely nothing to do with Christmas that people still enjoy watching during the holiday season: The Wizard of Oz (1939), The Sound of Music (1965), Mary Poppins (1964), etc. I think that most people like to watch movies that make them feel good during the last couple of months of the year because it reflects the spirit of the season. That is precisely the reason why Pixar wisely releases their films during Thanksgiving weekend and why their latest, Coco, is currently killing it at the box-office three weeks into release.

So on a surprisingly dry week of new releases, I would recommend revisiting your favorite movie to watch during the holidays or check out Coco, Lady Bird or Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri in theaters if you haven’t already. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Common dolphin play alongside the rail of the R/V Sea Explorer. Photo: File

Open Ocean Education Ocean Institute revitalizes whale watching program through education

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

S

tanding on the stern of the 71-footlong R/V Sea Explorer, Captain Mike Bursk launches into what he calls his “whale talk” for whale watching patrons aboard before setting off to sea from the Ocean Institute’s dock.

Bursk explained that the grey whales commonly seen along the coast of Dana Point remain relatively close to shore as they travel between their northern feeding grounds in the Artic to their mating grounds in the southern Baja peninsula.

A member of the public noted that this was not the most direct path, and asked what inspired the whales to migrate in such a pattern.

“Sometimes you choose to drive the interstate freeways and sometimes you choose to take the scenic route along the coast,” another whale watcher commented.

This spring, the Ocean Institute is taking a similar perspective as they unroll changes to their whale watching program.

As compared to a more “ocean-safari” experience, Mary Lawson, vice-president of external affairs at the Ocean Institute, said the Ocean Institute is exploring its niche as a premier international research and education experience.

“Why just watch whales, when you can know them,” Lawson said. “We are promoting ocean literacy, or a broad understanding of the ocean from multiple perspectives, through real-world experiences grounded in conservation and research. Our whale watching program is part of this effort.”

The Ocean Institute whale watching program is one part of their educational of-

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ferings that aim to develop an ocean literate public.

Patrons such as Julie Sharay, of Seattle, Washington, and her parents Linda and Dave watched wide-eyed as employees from the Ocean Institute performed tasks such as pulling live kelp for animals back at the Ocean Institute and analyzing plankton density on an on-deck lab.

Continuing to “stretch their minds” is what keeps Charlie and Penny Hohman volunteering at the Ocean Institute after more than 20 years. Each of the newly formatted eco-tour style whale watching trips through the Ocean Institute will feature numerous naturalists and volunteers on board, all available for questioning and to share their experiences on board the Sea Explorer.

Captain Bursk has been the captain of the R/V Sea Explorer for more than 15 years and his career has prepared him in earnest for comprehensive excursions such as these. Bursk holds multiple degrees in marine biology, a career as a charter boat captain and a plethora of groundbreaking research experience, including original grey whale behavior research in the warm lagoons off Baja, Mexico.

When asked about a favorite experience aboard the R/V Sea Explorer that continues to motivate and inspire them, both Bursk and Georgina Stone, a science tech at the Ocean Institute, shared an experience where a single minke whale surfaced and gently touched the hull of the boat.

Without knowing that he was sharing the same experience as his Ocean Institute colleague, Bursk said that the new eco-tour oriented whale watching trips were just as much about the behavior as the quantity of whales spotted.

“Looking into the (minke whale’s) eye was magical,” Stone said. “They are so ornery and can be somewhat evasive. I’ll never forget. It was like it thought we were its mother, and it was nuzzling alongside us.”

One picture may be worth a thousand words, but the Ocean Institute’s newly refined whale watching eco-tours suggest the waters off Dana Point hold volumes. Learn more at www.ocean-institute.org. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

Many trees were lit at La Plaza Park on Dec. 2.

Photo: Daniel Ritz

A customer drops off canned goods for donation at the “The Kings Club” during the holiday tree lighting at La Plaza Park on Dec. 2. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Nothing but smiles were seen at the La Plaza Park tree lighting on Dec. 2. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Tis’ the Season Dana Point welcomes holiday season with traditional, novel events Christmas carolers. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Grace Courtney, 3, from Lakewood. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Mayor Debra Lewis (middle) and Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt (right) did double-duty, lighting holiday trees at La Plaza Park and Pines Park on Dec. 2 and Dec. 4, respectively. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

T

his past weekend, Dana Point was inundated with holiday spirit as the city welcomed the season by-way-of tenured traditional events and promising new activities.

Mayor Debra Lewis and Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt, along with a large contingent of city staff, did double-duty holiday tree lightings at La Plaza Park in the Lantern District on Dec. 2, and Pines Park in Capistrano Beach on Dec. 4.

“It’s so wonderful to see everyone together. This (tree lighting at La Plaza) is always well attended, but because it is an all-day event, sometimes groups come at different times,” said Nancy Jenkins, arts and culture commissioner of the city of Dana Point. “It’s so nice to see Dana Point together as a family and in one place at one time.”

As youth gathered within the park doing arts and crafts, pony rides and photos with Santa, many of-age community members gathered at the businesses and restaurants

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surrounding the park.

Mike Swenson, owner and “The Barber” at The Kings Club, was closed for business, but had doors open for employees, family, friends and patrons to gather for a canned food drive to benefit Family Assistance Ministries.

Joining Dana Point’s hallmark holiday events was the inaugural “Merry Movie” event on Dec. 2 hosted by the Dana Point Harbor Association.

Hundreds of families gathered to watch Elf on the lawn at Baby Beach within the Harbor for this free event.

Vlesydi Loveland, senior park ranger of South Coastal Operations for Orange County Parks, said even though the Merry Movie showing was in a competing time slot with more traditional events, she thought the Merry Movie event was a universal success.

More than 400 people attended the tree lighting at Pines Park on Dec. 4, including countless canine companions.

Just before lighting the Pines Park tree to conclude the city’s “official” ceremonies, Dana Point Mayor Pro Tem Paul Wyatt explained why each of these independent ceremonies is important to the city.

“Each neighborhood, each community has its own unique flavor, its own personality, but we’re one Dana Point,” said Wyatt.

“We want people to know, that we know that, and we support them.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

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

So Much For That Idea

A

s a newspaper columnist, fledgling social media marketer, and retired dude, I am always thinking of ways to help single people ages 50 to 90 by extending the reach of my writing.

In September, I came up with an angle that I felt might land me a third appearance on the Today show in New York City.

I had been interviewed on Today by Jack Ford in 1999 and Matt Lauer in 2001.

I thought, wouldn’t it be fun to be interviewed by Matt Lauer again. Not only do I remember the details of that interview, but I also remember my partner Greta and I being in the green room, where you hang out before the show with other guests.

One was author David McCullough. The other, John Lithgow, of 3rd Rock from the Sun. Greta and I even ON LIFE AND ordered three copies of LOVE AFTER 50 McCullough’s book he

By Tom Blake was promoting, John Adams, directly from him. They arrived in the mail a couple of weeks later.

With the Today show reaching an estimated five million viewers each day, if I got on the show, I would be able to sell some of my dating and relationship books that are stored in my garage. However, getting on any network talk show is very difficult, but I decided to try anyway.

I called the show’s switchboard in New York City to get the name and address of the show’s executive producer. I drafted a letter to him, but decided not to send it until Greta and I returned from our trip to South America. I didn’t want to blow an opportunity to appear if the producer contacted me when we were at sea off the coast of Chile or Argentina, or somewhere else along the way.

Sometimes, major talk shows decide at

Photo: Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES A man drops down the face of a wave at Killer Dana in a canoe.

Considered one of the best waves in the world at the time, the surf break was destroyed when the Army Corps of Engineers built the Dana Point Harbor in 1966.

Every week, the Dana Point Times will feature a historic picture. Online, the Dana Point Times will create a gallery of this month’s photos. To submit your historical photos, please provide information about the scene along with your name for credit to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

the last minute to bring guests on, and if you’re selected, you need to drop everything and boogie to NYC. Now that we are home from the trip, getting a letter off to the executive producer was at the top of my “to-do” list for early December.

My pitch to the producer was going to be that when I was interviewed in 2001, Matt’s opening question to me was “Has dating changed for people over 50?” Then, he and I discussed the changes.

Having written more than 3,000 columns and newsletters on senior dating and relationships since that 2001 interview, I thought the producer might be interested in the senior dating changes that have occurred since then. I reasoned that Matt could just ask me the same questions.

Some senior dating changes in 2017: internet dating has grown to approximately 4,000 different dating sites; long-distance

Pet of the Week: Alder

F Alder. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

relationships are more common; romance scams exploit vulnerable singles; people use Skype and social media to chat; people lie on their profiles; and, breaking up by text message happens occasionally.

But, my plan to make another run at a Today show appearance got derailed last week, before I mailed the pitch letter to the show’s producer. Matt was terminated after 24 years on the show as co-anchor, for allegations of sexual misconduct.

In senior dating, when couples meet, timing is everything. Same thing when pitching an appearance on a major network talk show. I guess the dating and relationship books being stored in my garage will continue to gather dust.

Greta’s niece Gina mentioned that she saw videos of my TV appearances on my website. She said, “Send a letter to Today anyway, just change the pitch somewhat, and since you were also on Good Morning America with Diane Sawyer, send a letter

to them as well.”

Gina’s right. I’ll include that project among my New Year’s resolutions.

To view videos of Tom’s TV appearances, including parts one and two of the Matt Lauer interview, and the Good Morning America interview with Diane Sawyer, go to this webpage: www.findingloveafter50. com/videos.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www. findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, 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

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:

our-year-old Alder is a sweet, little guy ready to make new friends. He loves playing the yard and going on jaunty walks. With his friendly personality and happy smile, Alder is sure to brighten any day.

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

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See the solution in next week’s issue.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com GARAGE SALES MULTI FAMILY GARAGE SALE - DEC. 9 & 10 Saturday and Sunday 8am, 32991 Christina Dr, Dana Point.

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

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.

OBITUARY FRANK EDWARD MOXLEY III With heavy hearts, we announce that Frank Edward Moxley III passed in Oak Glen after a prolonged illness. Frank was born in Apple Valley, CA and raised in Yucaipa.

He was involved in Key Club, Speech and on the varsity tennis team. He was also an Eagle Scout. He graduated from Loyola Marymount University with a degree in political science. He was also a member of Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity. He loved traveling, the beach, surfing, golfing, music and playing the guitar.

Frank owned an airfreight business after college and worked at Pan Am and Delta Airlines in Washington, D.C. as a senior crew supervisor and in operations.

Frank and his wife Heather, established Cardvark Gifts in San Clemente and later SmokinWood-Chips By Frank’s Gourmet.

He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Yucaipa and Pacific Coast Church in San Clemente. Frank is survived by his wife Heather Hines Moxley of San Juan Capistrano; son William Bradford Moxley of Tacoma, WA; grandson Calvin James Moxley; two sisters, Mother, Father, Step-Father.

Private services were held February 1st, at a paddle-out by his son. Celebration of Life will be held this Sunday, December 10th at 10:30 in San Juan Capistrano. For more information, please contact Heather Moxley at cardvarks@aol.com.

Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

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www.danapointtimes.com

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point Point Dana

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dana Outrigger Performs Well at South American Canoe Championships

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he six members of the Dana Outrigger Canoe Club that landed in Peru on Nov. 17 barely had time to shake off the jetlag before they hit the icy waters of the Pacific to compete against the best outrigger canoe paddlers on the continent.

The Americans had less than 12 hours after landing in Lima before they were competing in the South American Canoe Championships’ flagship event—a 14-mile, open-ocean paddle.

The local Dana Point-based team acquitted themselves nicely with a 10th-place finish in a field of 17 boats. The local team had to rent a boat while in Peru, which slowed them down quite a bit.

However, the 14-mile race went off without a hitch for the Dana Outrigger team.

Clubs from Brazil and Easter Island got out to early leads and left a pack behind, which the Dana Outrigger team stayed in. Heavy swells ended up not factoring in much to the outcome.

“I thought we were respectable,” Dana Outrigger member John Skorstad said. “Everybody on our team really performed well.”

Team members Dave Brozowski and Brian Pesartic competed in the event’s mixed co-ed 6K race. Brozowski placed second and Pesartic took third.

The same Dana Outrigger team made the trip south for the championships in 2016, which was held in Chile. The trip is now becoming an annual tradition for the tightknit group. Next year, they plan on

Victoria Barnet and the Dana Hills girls soccer team will play high-profile nonleague matches against HarvardWestlake and Huntington Beach in the coming weeks. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Dana Outrigger Canoe Club members took the Times with them to Machu Picchu. Photo: Courtesy

competing in the 2018 edition of the race in Brazil.

Skorstad said the sport of outrigger canoe racing is becoming increasingly popular in South America. More outrigger clubs are making the journey to the event every year, he said, and the overall interest and skill level has noticeably increased.

But the competition is only half the fun for the local outrigger team. They always make sure to take a few extra days following the race to sightsee and explore.

This year, after completing the race on Nov. 18, the crew spent a week exploring the mountainous area around the city of Cusco. The group made hikes up to Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu and Rainbow Mountain before returning stateside.

The Dana Outrigger group is currently planning a trip to compete in Hawaii sometime in 2018. DP

Dolphin Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Cross Country Teams Shine at State Meet For the second consecutive year, both the Dana Hills boys and girls cross country teams advanced to the CIF Division 1 State Championship meet in Fresno. And for the second year in a row, both teams earned top-10 finishes.

The boys team placed third in the race and the girls team placed 10th.

The boys squad was led by the strong pack-running of senior Jack Landgraf, sophomore Caleb Niednagel and junior Simon Fuller. Landgraf finished with a time of 12:26.1, good for a ninth-place overall finish. Niednagel was right behind in 10thplace with a time of 12:26.5. Fuller finished 13th after looping the course in 15:30.6.

Leila Keyvan (19:01.1) came in 54thplace, followed by Sarah Meng (78th), Megan Geiger (79th), Marisa Gaitan (88th) and Holly Morales (92nd) for the girls team.

The boys squad was scheduled to compete in the prestigious Nike Cross Nationals race in Portland, Oregon on Dec. 2.

Results were not available at press time.

Boys Basketball in Tournament Mode Members of the Dana Outrigger Canoe Club on the shores of Lima, Peru for the South American Canoe Championships. Photo: Courtesy

Dana Point Times December 8–14, 2017

beating Savanna and Sunny Hills while losing to Woodrow Wilson and Aliso Niguel.

In both of the Dolphin’s wins, they held their opponent to fewer than 35 points.

The Dolphins will enter the Four City Classic in Garden Grove starting Monday, Dec. 11.

A run through the Godinez Grizzly Invitational tournament opened the season for the Dolphins’ boys basketball team.

Dana Hills (3-2) went 2-2 at the event, Page 22

Girls Hoops Enters Tough Stretch of Games After a successful run through the Corona del Mar Tip-Off Tournament, the Dana Hills girls basketball team began the Ocean View Hawk Tournament with backto-back losses.

Dana Hills (5-2) lost to Palos Verdes and Orangewood Academy, respectively.

When the team ends tournament play, Dana Hills will play its toughest test todate when Trinity League power Orange Lutheran comes to play the Dolphins in their own gym on Saturday, Dec. 16.

Boys Soccer Falls to Tritons in Rivalry Game The Dana Hills boys soccer team lost its annual rivalry game against San Clemente 3-0 on Dec. 1.

The Dolphins, who are playing under first-year head coach Mark Torrianni, opened their season with a 2-1 nonleague victory over Laguna Beach on Nov. 29.

Dana Hills was scheduled to play Marina on Dec. 6. Results were not available at press time. They will travel to play San Juan Hills in a nonleague game on Friday, Dec. 8.

Girls Soccer Opens Season With Loss A 1-0 nonleague loss to Upland marked the beginning of the season for the Dana Hills girls soccer team on Dec. 4.

Dana Hills was scheduled to play El Toro on Dec. 7. Results were not available at press time. www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF

Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

‘The Big One’ Hundreds gather for Longboard Collectors Club’s vintage surf swap at Doheny

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

S

tanding proudly in the center of the grass at Doheny State Park, Cristoffer Doimo smiled brighter than the pale-yellow Herbie Fletcher surfboard he held.

The board, shaped by South County legend Herbie Fletcher, is to return with Doimo to Bordeaux, France, where he is excited to show it off to his surfboard collection club at home. Doimo, among hundreds of other surf enthusiasts, attended the Longboard Collection Club’s (LLC) “The Big One” swap meet at Doheny State Park on Dec. 3. The (LCC), created more than 20 years ago, has been hosting “The Big One” event at Doheny since 1992.

Self-explanatory, “The Big One” is one of the largest vintage surf memorabilia gatherings in the world, bringing together hundreds of board collectors, students of surf culture and high-profile surf celebrities. Cash sales are possible but not the majority. LLC President Jeff Robertson, of Los Angeles, said most transactions take place through trade and barter.

Robertson said the vintage surf swap’s greatest asset is offering an open-air

A Pacific Systems Homes Inc. hollow redwood board, circa 1910. Photo: Daniel Ritz

Dana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

Clockwise from top: A stack of neon Pete Schroff and R. Sleigh boards from the “Echo Beach” era of Newport Beach were on display at “The Big One” on Dec. 3. Photo: Daniel Ritz. This display, showing multiple generations of the twin-fin surfboard, was one of many showcasing the evolution of the particular surfboard design.

Photo: Ron Regalado. Surfers examine vintage boards. Photo: Daniel Ritz

community atmosphere where the eccentric lore of surf history can be brought together.

“This is how it all comes together,” Robertson said. “It’s as much about discovery

Gary Young, of San Diego, has been a long-time member of the LLC and looks forward to “The Big One” every year. Photo: Daniel Ritz

as it is reverence.”

Steve Collins, the LLC’s president for the last 11 years, said this year he was able to step back and enjoy the show in a new way.

Gary Young said ISA President Fernando Aguirre couldn’t pass up this one of a kind surfboard.

Photo: Daniel RItz

Page 24

“The pressure’s off,” Collins said. “I’m just smiling now.”

Collins reinforced the surf swap’s ability to close holes in surf history’s narrative when he explained that some of his favorite moments are seeing surfers’ eyes light up in moments of personal connection at his club’s show.

“It isn’t all about the big names. It’s about someone finding a board that they cannot believe they are seeing, or the shaper that nobody has ever heard of,” Collins said. “It’s when someone sees something that means more to them than anyone else in the world. Those are the moments I think everyone loves to see the most.”

Gary Young, 61, of San Diego, is a longtime member of the LLC and is excited to return to Doheny each year.

Young had his eyes set on several boards, including a 12’ Dick Brewer Hawaii gun, a mint-condition pearl in-lay Hansen, and a two-tone, never-been-ridden Mike Hynson fish.

He stopped at the end of the line in front of a blunt-nosed small wave surfboard with black and white portraits of 1970s supermodels glassed on the deck and famous photographs of Marilyn Monroe on the bottom.

“Fernando Aguirre (president of the International Surf Association) said he just had to have this one. I’m going to drop it off at his house tomorrow,” Young said.

The Longboard Collectors Club will be returning to Dana Point for a special event in late February. Learn more about the Longboard Collectors Club by visiting their website at www.longboardcollectorclub.com. DP

Cristoffer Doimo from Bordeaux, France, was excited to take home a Herbie Fletcher board. Photo: Ron Regalado

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DP SURF

Double Trouble at the Triple Crown

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 60-63 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 5-8’ Fair Outlook: Fun size combo swell through this weekend with chest-shoulder high (4’+) sets at top spots. Winds are favorable and offshore much of the time. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

After big results at Sunset Beach, Colapinto, Andino lead charge in Triple Crown of surfing

GROM OF THE WEEK

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t’s safe to say that was the best three weeks of my life,” surmised Griffin Colapinto when the World Cup of Surfing was done and dusted.

It’s also safe to say that Colapinto’s not done yet. Last week, we reported on the 19-year-old San Clemente surfer’s bid to qualify for the 2018 World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour—the biggest stage in surf. Well, what a difference a week makes.

Safely on tour next year, Colapinto went into the World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach with zero pressure on his shoulders. All he had to do was go out and surf. He ended up making the final alongside Lowers cohort, Kolohe Andino, and now leads the Vans Triple Crown ratings as well as the WSL’s Qualifying

Finishing runner-up at the World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach, Kolohe Andino could be the first surfer from south Orange County to capture a Triple Crown title. Photo: WSL

Series ratings. Because he’s fronting the Triple Crown ratings, Colapinto will now get the opportunity to surf in the Mike Stewart Pipeline Invitational, and if he can pull off another miracle, he’ll get his first opportunity to compete in the prestigious Billabong Pipe Masters.

But wait, it gets better. Finishing runner-up at Sunset Beach to Santa Barbara stylist Conner Coffin, Andino is also in contention for the Triple Crown title. He’s sitting in second, 1,000 points behind Colapinto in the ratings. Because he’s already a World Tour competitor, he’ll get an automatic bid into the Pipe Masters, which gets underway on Dec. 8.

“Sunset’s one of my favorite waves, and to have a friend like Griffin in the final, that’s pretty special,” Andino said.

Historically speaking, no competitive surfer from the San Clemente or Dana Point area has ever won the Triple Crown, so to have two guys sitting in first and second, that’s a huge deal. Most pro surfers consider winning the Triple Crown the next best thing to winning the world title. At the moment, the surf forecast for the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii appears fairly promising. Colapinto and Andino are both in a white-hot rhythm. Stay tuned, this is potentially about to get really good.

DP Makai Bray.

Photo: Courtesy of Western Surfing Association

Local Women Stand Out at Taiwan Open World Longboard Championship

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

B

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he local South County men aren’t the only one’s lighting up the WSL scoreboards lately. At the Taiwan Open World Longboard Championship, a whole crew of local women cross-stepped their way onto the international scene.

Saddleback surfer Lindsay Steinriede nearly went the distance, finishing runnerup to Hawaii’s Honolua Blomfield.

“I’m so stoked with making it to the final—the waves have been incredible today,” said Steinriede after the awards ceremony. “I’m really happy we powered through so many heats today and made the most of this pumping surf. This has been a great year with the two events, as it gives everyone more of an opportunity at success—and it’s just awesome for longboarding. Seeing Honolua killing it this much at just 18 years of age is amazDana Point Times December 8-14, 2017

MAKAI BRAY

Lindsay Steinriede styling into second-place at the Taiwan Open World Longboard Championship. Photo: WSL

ing, she put on an amazing performance in the final and I’m really happy for her. The surf today was unbelievable—definitely the best whole day of surf I have had in Taiwan; it’s an amazing place.”

Right behind Steinriede, Tory Gilkerson and Rachael Tilly both made the semifinals to keep the San Onofre tradition going strong. Tilly was the 2015 world longboard champ, and Gilkerson was the 2016 champ. Both know full well what it

means to contend for a title. “(I’m) beyond stoked to have finished third here at the WSL Longboard World Championship,” Tilly said. “Stellar conditions and amazing performances from all the girls.”

“I look forward to next year and seeing what the future holds,” added Steinriede.

With so much local talent commanding the upper echelon of women’s longboarding, neither can we. DP

Page 26

ig thumbs up to lil’ Makai Bray for taking out a Western Surfing Association (WSA) win at the San Clemente Pier over the weekend.

The Salt Life Midget Smith Memorial hit the sand with a healthy dose of winter swell in the water, and 10-year-old Bray stepped up to take out a tough final stacked with talent. Lately, Bray’s been spending a lot of time in the water working with former World Tour star and Brazilian legend Neco Padaratz, whose influence can be seen in the evolution of both Bray’s technique and his intelligence when surfing heats.

“I’ve known this kid since he was born.

Can’t count how many special moments we’ve had over the years,” wrote Padaratz on social media after Bray’s win. “Back then I didn’t know about his natural talent, but nowadays, I’m his coach and watching him succeed is pure joy, (it) is to live the dream again. You go, Makai. There is a bright future ahead of you.”

In addition to a good day of surf for the local groms, the Salt Life Midget Smith Memorial also played host to the WSA’s 10th Annual Toys For Tots event. Competitors were encouraged to bring toys and gifts for the less fortunate. DP www.danapointtimes.com