46th Annual Festival of Whales Official Event Guide

O F F I C I A L

E V E N T

G U I D E

... and so much more!

WELCOME FROM THE MAYOR

Welcome to the 46th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales Whale migration is one of the most amazing journeys on the planet. Every year, around 20,000 gray whales migrate 5,000 to 7,000 miles between Baja, Mexico, where they are born and their feeding grounds in the Bering Sea. Compare this to the longest land mammal migration, that of the caribou, which spans roughly 3,000 miles annually. What makes whale migration even more exciting is that gray whales usually travel within 2.5 miles of our shore, making their epic journey visible to us.

Imagine yourself standing on the bluffs or cruising the waters on a whale-watching boat. Someone shouts, “I see them!” and eagerly points toward what looks like movement in the water. You turn to see, staring intently at the very spot. Suddenly, you see whales spouting, jumping out of the water and whirling around, or you catch sight of a whale’s iconic tail breaking out of the water. You, and everyone around you shouts excitedly while capturing the moment on a cell phone video to share with family and friends. It is an experience you will never forget.

I invite you to come and share two family-oriented, fun-packed weekends with us as Dana Point celebrates our annual Festival of Whales, beginning March 4. Enjoy the whale parade down Pacific Coast Highway, because who doesn’t love a parade? Participate in street fairs, eat great food and listen to music that will keep your toes tapping. Browse the arts and crafts. Take fishing, sailing, stand-up paddling or Wyland art lessons. Watch drone demos. Journey back in time aboard the Pilgrim tall ship. Visit the Harbor, the Ocean Institute and take home whatever you fancy at one of our many shops here in Dana Point. Of course, don’t forget to make your reservations for a whale watching excursion.

Hope to see you there!

MAYOR DEBRA LEWIS

A Look Back

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FESTIVAL OF WHALES

By Andrea Swayne, Event Coordinator

As the city embarks on its 46th annual Festival of Whales, let’s take a brief look back at the origins of this iconic Dana Point cetacean celebration.

Scientists believe Dana Point, long before it was named and possibly even inhabited, has served as a landmark for migrating gray whales as they make their annual round-trip journey between their cold Arctic feeding grounds and their warm breeding and calving lagoons in Baja Mexico.

Although a 46-year celebration of their visit to our coast seems like a substantial chunk of time from our perspective, in reality it represents a small grain in the sands of time, and in the history of whales. Through the ages, these magnificent marine mammals have been targeted by whale hunters, been near extinction and then returned to healthy numbers through protection laws.

Whale watching in the Dana Point area was originally the idea of San Clemente High School teacher Philip Grignon, who approached Don Hansen, a sportfishing company owner operating at the San

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Clemente Pier in the late 1960s. Grignon persuaded Hansen to run whale watching trips for science students, and the idea was a hit. Hansen moved his operation (now Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching) to Dana Point in 1971 just before the Harbor opened, and whale watching was extended to the public. It was not long before Dana Point began earning a reputation as a great place to catch sight of migrating grays and other whales. With the addition of the Ocean Institute and Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari the city has become the whale watching capital of the West.

The late Orange County/Dana Point historian Doris Walker is credited with organizing the first Festival of Whales Parade in 1973.

A lot has happened in the nearly five decades since the Festival started, and the Festival continues to educate, delight and inspire, just as it was meant to in the beginning. The entire city has embraced the Festival, and in its present iteration, it has become one of the largest, most fun-filled and highly anticipated events of the year.

Q&A

WITH PARADE GRAND MARSHAL

Rachael Tilly Rachael Tilly, 18, of Capo Beach is well-known among locals at Doheny State Beach and surf fans everywhere for her World Surf League 2015 Women’s Longboard Championship win.

In the 2017 Festival of Whales Parade, Rachael will be front and center as the grand marshal. We sat down with the San Clemente High School alum to discuss the upcoming festival, her favorite events and more.

How did you feel when you were asked to be the grand marshal?

Rachael Tilly: Really excited. I thought it’s such a cool opportunity. About five years ago, I was the Bag Monster™ for Ocean Awareness Day, helping out my aunt who works in Dana Point (and coordinates that event at the Festival of Whales). I wore this plastic bag outfit (to illustrate the environmental harm done by single-use plastic bags) and it was so hot. I just had to walk around; you couldn’t even see me; I just had two little eyeholes. And so we made a joke that I made it all the way from Bag Monster™ to grand marshal.

How long have you lived here?

I grew up here. I’ve been through the parade with my elementary school on the firetrucks and such, and so I’ve grown up seeing this parade and the festival every year, so it’s exciting now to be the grand marshal.

What do you love most about FOW? Every year it’s something to look forward to. It’s something that the community can really gather around and get together and celebrate our community.

How did you get involved with surfing?

My dad used to be a professional surfer and so naturally when I was little he was always surfing and going to contests. So I grew up saying, ‘Take me, take me out in the water.’ When I was finally old enough, he first took me surfing and from then on we started going more and more. I did my first contest at 6 years old, and it just became more regular. I started loving it for myself.

His sessions of going out were over; he was helping me. It was definitely opening a new chapter for him and me but I’m really happy we’ve been able to do this together.

What do you love most about the community?

I think what I love the most is our active lifestyle. You go down to the Harbor and people are walking around, people are enjoying food whether it’s down at Boneyard or Coffee Importers in the Harbor. You go out and it’s alive. The community is always going. I love the Harbor; I spend a lot of time there. I grew up taking sailing classes at Westwind Sailing, and the past six years I’ve been an instructor there. I spend every day in the summer there.

What are your favorite things to do in your free time?

Sailing is one of my favorite things. I love being active in general, so although surfing is a fun thing, it’s my job. For something I consider for free time, I’d say sailing.

<< Rachael Tilly hoists her world champion trophy on the podium at the conclusion of the World Surf League 2015 Women’s World Longboard Championship in China. Photo: WSL

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MEET THE FESTIVAL OF WHALES LOGO CONTEST WINNER

Alex Van Brasch

Alex Van Brasch, a Simi Valley native, was named the Festival of Whales Logo contest winner.

Photo: Quintin Hardgrove

The Festival of Whales Logo Design Contest had a few changes this year. First, it was reopened to the public after having been open only to Dana Hills High School students for the past five years. Second, the public was able to select the winner.

More than 50 entries were submitted this year, from crayon drawings done by young children to professional pieces in a variety of mediums. The Foundation Board narrowed down the selections to five, then the public took over. Each of the submissions had to showcase the California gray whale, the name of the festival and the festival’s dates.

Alex Van Brasch, a Simi Valley native who currently lives in Portland, Oregon, received 1,377 votes for his design and was named the winner. Mark Sandlin of Atlanta, Georgia, received 438 votes and was named second runner-up. Third runner-up was Jeff Fleming of Dana Point with 210 votes, followed by Tom Swimm of San Clemente with 184 votes, and Vickie Killeen of Dana Point with 99 votes.

We asked Alex a few questions about how he came up with the design.

How did you hear about the contest?

Van Brasch: A friend of mine sent over a flier and I was immediately intrigued. I’ve loved whales since I was a kid, so having the chance to pay tribute was an honor. One night I just started drawing this whale in colored pencil. There was no clear layout for

the rest of the design.

What was your inspiration behind the design?

I wanted to create something to celebrate not only the spirit of the gray whale, but also the ability to break out of the negative barriers around us. I believe whales symbolize hope, strength and diversity and I wanted to highlight those values in the logo.

Previously, you said you haven’t attended the event in the past. Are you excited to attend this year, especially with your artwork everywhere?

I’m thrilled to be able to attend the festival; and having my work featured will definitely be humbling.

What did you use to create the logo?

The majority of the design was created using pen and colored pencil. Afterwards, computer generated text and a border were added in and around the hand-drawn illustration.

What are you most excited for?

I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone and enjoying what the event has to offer. It’ll be great to see the emphasis on the importance of visual art, music and local culture at the festival. I’m excited to share this experience with all of the talented artists and vendors that will be there as well.

Van Brasch will make an appearance at the festival during the first weekend in the parade and during a poster signing at the Street Fair.

OTHER FINALISTS

Mark Sandlin

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Jeff Fleming

Tom Swimm

Vickie Killeen

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Festival of Whales

Merchandise

The Festival’s merchandise is unique and will be featured at several locations throughout the event.

Products include a youth short sleeve T-Shirt in ash gray and Carolina blue; a sport pack backpack; a tote bag; a five-panel flat bill snapback trucker hat in white, royal blue/white and charcoal gray; an adult short sleeve T-shirt in white, indigo blue and ash gray; an adult long sleeve T-shirt in indigo blue and charcoal gray; an adult zip front hooded sweatshirt in heather gray and charcoal gray.

Merchandise booths will be at the following locations: March 4: Street Fair at La Plaza Park and Dana Wharf (in front of Dana

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GETTING AROUND THE FESTIVAL WALKING DIRECTIONS FROM OCTA BUS STOP

For those guests who are utilizing the OCTA bus stops on PCH, you can reach the Festival by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance area or you can enter Doheny State Beach (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the barrier fence, then proceed toward the beach to the marked Festival of Whales shuttle stop.

Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations.

Parade Announcer Stand. At the conclusion of the Parade, meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor.

STREET FAIR SHUTTLE

(March 4 only) FREE shuttle service will be available from all Harbor locations to the Street Fair from noon to 4 p.m.

PARKING AND FREE SHUTTLE INFORMATION Wharf Whale Watching and in the center of the Dana Wharf parking lot) March 5: Ocean Awareness Day at Baby Beach, Dana Wharf (in front of Dana Wharf Whale Watching and in the center of the Dana Wharf parking lot) March 11: Dana Wharf (in front of Dana Wharf Whale Watching and the in the center of the Dana Wharf parking lot), along the Harbor walkway March 12: Concert on the Water/ Spirits Garden at Baby Beach, Dana Wharf Whale Watching (in front of Dana Wharf Whale Watching and in the center of the Dana Wharf parking lot) ••• Items can also be purchased online at www.festivalofwhales.com.

The FREE shuttles (and trolleys) run each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and services most parking lots and event locations. Daily and $2 hourly parking is available at Doheny State Beach at the numerous automated payment machine kiosks located throughout the park or through the Passport Parking app available for smartphones and tablets at www.ppprk.com/ park. The benefit of the Passport Parking payment application is, in addition to making the initial payment for parking, time can also be added remotely from your phone or tablet.

PARADE DAY SHUTTLE

(March 4 only) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor or at Doheny State Beach and ride to the drop-off location for the northerly

WATER TAXI

Daily service during the Festival will be offered between Dana Wharf and the Ocean Institute from noon to 5 p.m. Round trip tickets are $5 per person. Take in all the great sights from the water! Your captain will share interesting facts and features about the Dana Point area and its fascinating history.

WHALE OF A CONCERT SHUTTLE (March 12 only) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m.

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Schedule of Events

WEEKEND ONE

Purple numbers coincide with map locations on page 6.

WEEKEND TWO

SATURDAY, MARCH 4

SUNDAY, MARCH 5

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

SUNDAY, MARCH 12

Sand Sculpting Competition

Whale of a Pancake Breakfast

Whale of a Beach Cleanup

Festival of Whales Parade

Whale Walk Painting

Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild

Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

8 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Baby Beach 15 10 a.m. Pacific Coast Highway 1 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

10 a.m.–11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

Street Fair

10 a.m.–3 p.m. La Plaza Park 2

7 a.m.–10:30 a.m. Baby Beach Park 15 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Doheny State Beach 16 10 a.m.–10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3

Art & the Sea: Painting Class

10 a.m.–11 a.m. Ocean Institute 5

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

10 a.m.–11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor Walkway 11

Art in the Park

Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Clinic

So Cal Woodies Car Show

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

11 a.m.–1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6

Whale of a Pizza Party

Ocean Awareness Day

11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15

11 a.m.–4 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15

Harbor Music Series

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure

Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

11 a.m.–1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Historic Walking Tour of Town Center

Rubber Ducky Derby

EVERY DAY OF THE EVENT

• Dana Wharf Whale Watching 8 a.m – 4 p.m.

• Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

11 a.m.–2 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15

Diamond Dig

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Whale of a BBQ

11:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15

Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip

Noon–12:30 p.m.; 12:45–5:15 p.m. Dana Wharf Docks 3

Harbor Music Series

Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Historic Walking Tour of Town Center

2 p.m. Blue Lantern Street/Pacific Coast Highway 8

• Ocean Institute 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Drone and GoPro Demo

• Whale Watch from Land (bluff top viewing) Headlands Nature Interpretive Center 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Movie Screening: “Humpback Whales”

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10 a.m. – 4 p.m. East Marina Parking Lot 13

Ocean Institute Education Center

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 7

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure

WHALE WATCHING

Kids’ Fun Fair

British Invasion Car Show

Art in the Park

2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild

10 a.m.–11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

Drone and GoPro Demo

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. East Marina Parking Lot 13

10 a.m.–11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

The Legendary Corvette Car Show

2 p.m. Blue Lantern Street/Pacific Coast Highway 8

Kids’ Fun Fair

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Clinic

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Baby Beach 15

10 a.m.–10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

So Cal Woodies Car Show

The Legendary Corvette Car Show

Cardboard Classic Dinghy Dash & Expo

Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild

Ocean Institute Education Center

Ocean Institute Education Center

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6

10 a.m.–10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures Catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3

Ocean Institute Education Center 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

9 a.m.–Noon Doheny State Beach 16

British Invasion Car Show

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Harbor Walkway 11 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 7

Art in the Park

Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Clinic

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

Art in the Park

Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale

10 a.m.–4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & Event Center 7 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale

Mobile Marine Mammal Museum

10 a.m.–5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

Sixth Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15

Captain Dave’s Under Sea Eco Carnival

11 a.m.–3 p.m. Doheny State Beach Visitor Center 16

Harbor Music Series

Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Whale of a Concert on the Water Noon–5 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Noon–2 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Deck near Baby Beach 4

Whale of a Concert BBQ and Spirits Garden

Harbor Music Series

Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip

Noon–3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Drone and GoPro Demo

2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

Capt. Dave’s Presents “Entangled Whales: What Can We Do?”

Noon–5 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Noon–12:30 p.m.; 12:45–5:15 p.m. Dana Wharf Docks 3

Drone and GoPro Demo

2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Aventura Sailing Association 9

Free Movie Screening: “Finding Dory”

6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. Dana Point Community Center 14

2:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

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Annual Events Classic Car Displays

Cardboard Classic Dinghy Dash and Expo

March 11; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing will be hosting the second annual Cardboard Classic/Dinghy Dash. It includes a cardboard boat building contest and race, exhibition booths, food, music and awards. The event is at Baby Beach, next to OC Sailing & Event Center. To enter the Dinghy Dash, cost is $30 per team and all building supplies will be supplied.

Up to five people may participate on a team, and only one person per team may race. Sign up at www.festivalofwhales.com. 15

So Cal Woodies

March 4, 5; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. So Cal Woodies will be on display from the official Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club. 11

Pacific Coast Corvettes Presents the Legendary Corvette

March 4,5; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Harbor walkway will be filled with several generations of Corvettes. 11

British Invasion

Diamond Dig

March 5; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual Diamond Dig will be at Baby Beach. For an hour, dig for treasure, toys and prizes. One person will win a piece of jewelry donated by Marinelli Fine Jewelry.

Kids and adults are encouraged to arrive early. Tickets are $10.

949.204.7084 or visit www. monarchbeachrotary.com. 15

Free Movie Night

March 11; 6:30-9 p.m. Finding Dory will be featured during a night of family fun. Bring a picnic dinner or enjoy free popcorn and snacks.

Although the screening is indoors, low back lawn chairs or blankets are permitted. There will also be bleacher seating. Dana Point Community Center. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. 949.248.3530.

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Kids’ Fun Fair

March 11, 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce will host a carnival fun zone for kids and families in the East Marina Parking lot adjacent to the walkway between Dana Wharf and Harpoon Henry’s on Golden Lantern. There will be carnival style games, inflatable attractions and activities. Admission is free, but the purchase of tickets will be required for most attractions. 13

Ocean Awareness Day

March 5; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Join the Dana Point Harbor Association for interactive displays, demonstrations, entertainment and more showcasing environmental programs and issues relating to the ocean. Baby Beach. 34451 Ensenada Place. The event and parking are free. 949.923.2255 or www.danapointharbor.com. 15 8

Events &

Attractions

Parade

March 4; 10 a.m. The parade kicks off the two-weekend celebration of the California gray whale migration. There will be floats decorated in ocean and whale themes and giant helium balloons of a blue whale, an orca and other sea creatures. The parade begins at 10 a.m. with a route along Pacific Coast Highway beginning at Selva Road and ending at Street of the Golden Lantern. The parade is weather permitting; if canceled, no makeup date will be arranged. 1

Street Fair

March 4; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Pet Project Foundation will host the Street Fair and Whales and Tails Wag-a-Thon at La Plaza Park.

There will be vendor booths, music, food trucks, a kiddie area, a pet costume contest and more.

Admission is free. 2

Rubber Ducky Derby

March 5; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Hosted by the Dana Point Woman’s Club, this fun spin on a “Rubber Ducky Race” will be at Baby Beach. Duckies can be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.5706, or on the day of the

race. Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third place. Duckies are $6 or two for $10.

Sand Sculpting Competition

March 4; 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Join OC Parks for a sand sculpting contest at Baby Beach. Compete in one of these categories: whales, castles, ocean creatures, pirates and ships, or woodies and surfboards. Judging will begin at 2:30 p.m. Call 949.923.2284 to enter. 15

Arts & Culture Art in the Park

March 4, 5, 11, 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Local artists display a variety of work at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. The Dana Point Historical Society will provide free information on local history and display historic photos, books and gifts for purchase. 12

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show and Sale

March 4, 5, 11, 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The Dana Point Fine Arts Association will host an art show and sale.

The art will be on display at the

March 11, 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join the British Invasion along the Harbor Walkway to see a unique display of British motorcars including Austin-Healeys, Jaguars, Triumphs and more. 11

Purple numbers coincide with map locations on page 6.

Harbor Boardwalk in Mariner’s Village. The Association donates a portion of the proceeds to Dana Hills High School Art Department. It’s weather permitting; if canceled, there will be no make-up date. 6

Dana Point Historical Society

Walking Tour of Town Center March 4, 5; 2 p.m. The walk will show the historical town center.

See and hear stories of historical landmarks; a free walking tour brochure will be included. Meet the guide at the newly renovated Coastal Kitchen restaurant.

949.248.8121 or museum@ danapointhistorical.org.

Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale

March 11, 12; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. High school art students will display a variety of artwork on the Harbor walkway, just east of Island Way. Work will include paintings, photography, graphic design, ceramics and sculptures. Cookies created by the school’s culinary arts classes will be available for purchase.

Proceeds will benefit education programs at the high school. 12

Dana Wharf Whale Watching and More Drone and GoPro Demo with Marine Life Top-of-Mind

March 4, 5, 11, 12; 2:30-4:30 p.m.

See how Dana Wharf operates GoPros and drones and learn how to get the perfect shot while maintaining a safe distance from the whales. There will be a 30-minute demo during the 2.5-hour trip that focuses on the new technology they use daily. All adults will receive a copy of Dana Wharf Whale Watching’s new whale and dolphin DVD, “Sharing the Shores off Dana Point.” www.danawharf.com. 3

Marine Mammal Lecture Series

March 4, 5, 11, 12; 10-11 a.m.

These special lectures at Harpoon Henry’s Seafood Restaurant are perfect for those who want a one-on-one educational experience. Marine biologists and guests will present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. Eric Austin Yee (March 4) marine biologist: unusual marine life sightings of 2016; Alisa Schulman-Janiger (March 5) marine biologist: California Orcas/Gray Whale Census; Lei Lani Stelle, Ph.D (March 11) Blue Whales; and Kirsten Donald (March 12) Director of Education Pacific Marine Mammal Center: California Sea Lions and Seals. 13 (Cont. on page 10) FESTIVALOFWHALES.COM

EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS (CONTINUED) Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

March 4, 5, 11; 10-10:45 a.m.

Dana Wharf and the Wyland Foundation have entered a partnership to offer a unique and creative lesson. There will be a dockside presentation and an art lesson aboard the OCean Adventures Catamaran via video feed by environmental artist Wyland.

Children can enter their art in an end-of-season contest. The lesson is $5 per child and proceeds will benefit the Wyland Foundation.

Children who participate will receive a free whale watching trip. www.danawharf.com. 3

Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip

March 5, 12; Noon-12:30 p.m.; 12:45-5:15 p.m. Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites children to the dock side fishing clinic to learn handson techniques from the experts.

Prizes will be awarded. A fishing trip is scheduled from 12:45-5:15 p.m. Adults are $46 plus license and equipment. Children 12 and under fish for free with paid adult.

949.496.5794. 3

Doheny State Beach Whale Walk Painting

March 5; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Help paint a life-sized whale to add to the collection. Paint and brushes will be supplied. The event is free and open to the public. Doheny State Beach “Whale Walk” is near Boneyard Beach Café. Alert entrance staff upon arrival and they will direct you toward parking. 16

Whale of Beach Cleanup-Festival of Whales Toast to the Coast

March 11; 9 a.m.-Noon. Bring some gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket to help clean Doheny State Beach. Meet Ranger Vicki at the Lifeguard Headquarters. 16

Doheny State Beach’s Mobile Marine Mammal Museum

March 12; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be a variety of marine mammal artifacts for visitors to learn about.

Alert entrance staff upon arrival to get directions for parking location.

The event is free. 16

Whale of a Pancake Breakfast

March 5; 7-10:30 a.m. Join the Dana Point Woman’s Club for a pancake breakfast adjacent to Baby Beach. While there, purchase a rubber ducky for the Club’s Rubber Ducky Derby later in the day. 15

Dolphin Safari Whale Watching and more

Whale of a BBQ

Captain Dave’s Under the Sea Eco Carnival

Sixth Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off

March 11; Noon-2 p.m. Join the crew at the carnival and learn how to do your part and keep the ocean clean while having fun.

There will be bounce houses, a selfie station, and an underwater viewing pod simulation, face painting and more. Entry into the carnival is free. 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com. 4

Capt. Dave’s Presents: ‘Entangled Whales: What Can We Do?’

March 11; 2:30-3:30 p.m. Join Captain Dave Anderson for an informative presentation about whale entanglement and rescue. There will be never-before-seen rescue footage and drone video, and an opportunity to check out rescue equipment. Aventura Sailing Association, 24707 Dana Drive, Dana Point. 949.488.2828. 9

Food Options Whale of a Pizza Party

March 4; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Grab a slice and drink from Beach Harbor Pizza served by Veritas Lodge.

The party will be adjacent to Baby Beach during the Whale of a Sand Sculpting Contest. 15

March 5; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be delicious BBQ specialties served by the Knights of Columbus during Ocean Awareness Day. Adjacent to Baby Beach. 15

March 11; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sample clam chowders from local restaurants and organizations then vote for your favorite at Baby Beach.

Taste all the entries for $10. Prizes will be awarded for a variety of categories. Event includes a beer and wine garden for adults 21 and older with a valid ID. www.fishforlife.org.

Whale of a Concert BBQ and Spirits Garden

March 12; Noon-5 p.m. BBQ specialties and a spirits garden for those 21 and older. Baby Beach. 15

Live Music Harbor Music Series

March 4, 5, 11, 12; Noon-3 p.m.

The Dana Point Harbor Association hosts live music in the Dana Wharf Courtyard and Harpoon Henry’s grassy area near Mariner’s Village. There will be a variety of musical styles and sounds. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com. 10

Whale of a Concert on the Water

March 12; Noon-5 p.m. In honor of the whales migrating by Dana

Point Headlands, the Festival of Whales will include a free outdoor concert at Baby Beach. Bands will perform on the water atop of a floating stage. The Dave Silver Band performs at noon, the Tricia Freeman Band at 1:30 p.m. and Hollywood U2 will perform at 3:30 p.m. Low back chairs or blankets are permitted. There will be BBQ and a Spirits Garden for those 21 and older.

949.248.3530. 15

Ocean Institute Whale Watching and More Ocean Institute: Ocean Education Center

March 4, 5, 11, 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and captivating world of whales. Follow the migration of the gray whale as you move through the facility. There will be hands on dissections, animal feeding and more. Tickets are $10 for non-member adults, $7.50 for non-member seniors and children. Members and children under 2 are free. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5

Art & the Sea: Painting Class

March 5; 10-11 a.m. Join the Ocean Institute for a one-of-a-kind paint class with Motif Paint Events.

Tickets are included with admission to the Ocean Institute for the weekend only. 5

Movie Screening: MacGillivray-Freeman Films’ ‘Humpback Whales’

March 5; 6-9 p.m. A special viewing of MacGillivray-Freeman film will show up-close and personal looks into the world of humpback whales. There will be a short

Purple numbers coincide with map locations on page 6.

presentation and a Q&A session following the film. Tickets are $15 at the door, and proceeds benefit the Festival of Whales and the Ocean Institute. 5

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure

March 4,5; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of the gray whale. Join the Institute for a tall ship adventure and search for the gray whale. Tickets are $60 for adults, $50 for seniors and active duty military, $40 for children 4-12. Members receive a 10 percent discount. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the ticket purchase. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5

Sailing and Paddling Sailing Rides

March 5, 11, 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Take a sailing ride and learn to steer and sail a Capri 14. Rides are for ages 5 and up. Tickets are $15 per boat, three people maximum, for a half-hour session. Westwind Sailing. 949.492.3035. 7

Stand-up Paddling Clinics

March 5, 11, 12; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Join the SUP craze during a 45-minute clinic. Each clinic is held on the hour, depending on weather and conditions. Clinics are for ages 12 and up; 12-14 year olds must be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets are $10 per person and lifejackets are provided. Contact Westwind Sailing for details at 949.492.3035. 7

SET YOUR SIGHTS ON

Whale Watching

While in Dana Point for the Festival of Whales, there are many options for visitors to see some ocean wildlife up close.

Choose from three businesses offering many different whale watching experiences, times and prices.

Captain Dave’s Whale Watching Safari

Dana Wharf Whale Watching

Ocean Institute

Captain Dave’s provides trips aboard their customized catamarans, which allow guests to get up close and personal with wildlife. The Mantue’a offers eye-to-eye underwater viewing pods and a hydrophone to hear below the surface. Multiple trips are planned for both weekends of the festival. Tickets vary depending on the trip, but range from $20 to $65. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive.

949.488.2828. www.dolphinsafari.com.

Hop aboard one of Dana Wharf’s adventure cruises for a chance to catch a glimpse into the huge variety of underwater wildlife with their multiple whale watching trips every day. Cruises depart on the hour and are narrated by expert captains aboard a variety of vessels. Tickets vary depending on the trip, but range from $15 to $55.

34675 Street of the Golden Lantern. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Join the Ocean Institute’s scientists on a whale watching cruise aboard the R/V Sea Explorer. The 2.5-hour cruise will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 4; 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 5; 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 11; and 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 12. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and active duty military and $25 children. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.com.

LAND LOCKED? Walk along the bluff-top Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center’s 3 miles of trails to view the whale migration from above.

The Center is open daily from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the trails are accessible from 7 a.m. to sunset. 34558 Scenic Drive. 949.248.3527. www.danapoint.org.

Individual Whale Identification Techniques

Whale watching is fun, but there are important precautions you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of the whales.

We asked National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Education Coordinator Alicia Keefe to share guidelines for whale watchers and boaters at this year’s Festival of Whales and beyond.

BY ERIC AUSTIN YEE , MARINE BIOLOGIST, DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING

The whale watching world is full of creatures that most enthusiasts would consider celebrities in our oceans. Often whales can be easily identified by certain habits or traits that make them stand out. Bring up names like Scarlet, Hook or Scoopfin to a whale watching naturalist from Southern California and they will definitely be able to tell you what kind of whale is behind the name and how it earned the name. You might be thinking, “Don’t all whales look the same?” or “You’ve seen one whale, you’ve seen them all.” But there are many ways to tell individual whales apart and it is easy to do so if you look at the unique features on a whale. The identification of individual whales is not only important to researchers, but it also helps to spread interest and promote the conservation of whales.

Technology has been advanced to the point where anyone can identify individual whales; you no longer have to be a marine biologist or a researcher to do so.

HOW DO WE IDENTIFY INDIVIDUAL WHALES?

The most common way to start identifying a whale is to photograph the whale from both the left and right side to capture its identifiable features. This technique was pioneered with whales by the late Dr. Michael Bigg in the ’70s. Bigg discovered that orcas could be identified by simple photos of the side of the animal. Depending on the species of whale, various features such as the dorsal fin, flukes (tail), scars and markings can be utilized. Dorsal fins not only vary in shape and size from species to species but are unique to each individual animal.

Notches and scars are also commonly found on the edges of dorsal fins and aid in the identification process. These notches and scars are obtained in various ways, such as fighting, play or from injuries. These notches and scars can heal or change over time, so constant monitoring and new photos are needed to keep identifications current and correct. For animals such as orcas, the dorsal fin and saddle patch, a white area just behind the orca’s dorsal fin, can be used also. The saddle patch varies in shape and size between different individuals and also can have distinctive markings within it. On blue whales, the dorsal fin and blotches or spots below the dorsal fin on the whale’s body are primarily used to identify an individual. The dorsal fin matching technique is also regularly used 12

TIPS FOR SAFE WHALE WATCHING

GUIDELINES FOR ALL WHALE WATCHERS Humpback whale breaching. Photo: Dr. Mridula Srinivasan, NOAA/NMFS/OST/AMD

with bottlenose dolphins. A recent catalog of coastal bottlenose dolphins photographed from California to Northern Baja, Mexico, contained close to 1,300 dorsal fin identification photos.

Using photos of the whale’s flukes is also a common way of identifying a whale. This is a technique widely used on humpback whales. The shape of the flukes and underside of the flukes are full of markings and patterns that make an individual humpback whale unique. Some compare the underside of a humpback’s flukes to a human’s fingerprints. Creative researchers will see markings under a fluke that resemble an object and that will earn the humpback whale its name.

WHY DO WE WANT TO IDENTIFY INDIVIDUAL WHALES?

Identifying whales as individuals is beneficial for many reasons. Population sizes and social structures of whales are determined by photo identification projects done around the world’s oceans. Most researchers share the ID photos they gather to help their colleagues working in other areas recognize or match animals with the photos they have acquired. This can help figure out the animal’s migration or travel patterns. Repeated sightings of identified animals can also aid in figuring out an animal’s age. Photographic identification of whales is a non-invasive way of tracking whales; no tags or devices need to be attached to the animal. There has been recent controversy about tags attached to whales possibly causing wounds that could lead to infections.

Conservationists also see identifying a whale as an individual as a way to help people bond with whales and spread the word about the effort to help whales and their habitat.

WHO IDENTIFIES INDIVIDUAL WHALES?

The process of identifying individual animals can be a major task for researchers, but it can be done by professionals and amateurs alike. Often, thousands of photographs have to be sorted and edited to start the identification routine. These photos are placed on a computer or in printed catalogs, kind of like a yearbook for whales. Over the years, various types of programs have been used by researchers to make this strenuous task easier.

Most of these programs can be quite complicated and still require much human input to verify a match. The current wave of new programs is steering toward instant and automated matching.

Recently, a program called Happywhale has made the identification process quite simple and fun for anyone.

A user can log on to Happywhale.com and upload a photo of a whale they have photographed to have it identified. Using image processing algorithms, Happywhale will try to match the user’s photo to extensive photo collections. In a short time, Happywhale will notify the user if the whale has been identified and will supply various interesting information on the whale and previous sightings of that whale by other Happywhale users.

The user even has the option of following up with the whale and will receive notification if the whale has been spotted again. Happywhale is a great way to support the citizen scientist movement, proving you don’t have to be a marine biologist or work in the whale watching industry to help researchers identify and track whales. The program also hopes to inspire others to learn about whales and the conservation effort to help them in our ever-changing oceans.

• Whale watching can be a positive and enriching experience when conducted responsibly. We must remember that our presence has an effect on whales and their habitat.

Just like us, whales need space to find food, choose mates, raise young, socialize and rest. When we get too close, approach too fast or make too much noise, we can interrupt natural behaviors and cause unnecessary stress.

• Stay at least 100 yards away from all marine mammals.

• Be cautious and quiet when around areas of known or suspected wildlife activity, at haulouts and bird colonies.

• It is illegal to harass marine mammals, which means to disrupt their natural behaviors including feeding, nursing, resting and migration. To report violations, call the NOAA Fisheries Enforcement Hotline: 1.800.853.1964.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR BOATERS • Look in all directions before planning your approach or departure from viewing wildlife.

• Reduce your speed to less than 7 knots while in the presence of marine mammals.

• Move parallel to the animal’s direction of travel and keep their path clear. Do not approach from the front or from behind. Avoid any abrupt course changes.

• When whales are traveling close to shore, stay on their offshore side.

• If a whale approaches you, put the engine in neutral and allow the whale to pass.

• View whales for no more than 30 minutes.

This will reduce the cumulative impact of all vessels and give consideration to other viewers.

For more information, visit www.BeWhaleWise.org.

The website is continually updated with new information.

FESTIVALOFWHALES.COM

Annual Field Trip Aims to Give Dana Hills Students

Inspiration

Several students aboard the Dana Pride and the Dolphin Safari grabbed their gloves and pulled up their hoods as the wind picked up one day this January. But each stood at the boat’s railing waiting to see any type of wildlife. The Dana Hills High School students were on an annual Festival of Whales pre-event field trip to gain inspiration for art they will be showcasing during the two-weekend festival.

This is the sixth year the students have gone out to sea with Dana Wharf Whale Watching and Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari. Students from classes, including AP Studio Art, Culinary Arts and more, took the two-hour trip.

Culinary Arts teacher Alissa Hernandez said she’s taken the trip for a few years.

“The students will make cookies in the shape of whales,” Hernandez said. “This trip helps them understand more about the festival.”

She said for some students, this is the first time out on a boat, or even whale watching.

“We spend months getting ready for the festival,” Hernandez said. “It takes a while for them to get the filling ready and get the design just right.”

She hoped the trip gave the students inspiration for their designs.

Krista Snow, who teaches AP Studio Art and Multimedia Design, said the students not only gain inspiration but business and networking skills.

“They’ll be meeting people, greeting guests and selling their work at the Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale event at the festival,” Snow said.

In her class, the students will be editing and printing the photos they took before selling them during the festival.

FESTIVALOFWHALES.COM

“It’s a good process; you have to start with the basics—perfect exposure on the camera, perfect aperture, shutter speed, settings, you have to be able to compose your photo—so they’ll be building those skills to create strong and professional photos,” Snow said.

Nicole Beatty, a senior at Dana Hills, said she was taking photos for AP Studio Art. “We pick a concentration our second semester, and right now I’m getting shots of people out on kayaks, on boats and the shoreline,” Nicole said.

Walking around the boat with a video camera and a microphone, Thanh Ngo and Rebecca Cadena were getting footage for a Dana Hills show called Hall Pass.

“It’s about all different things, current events, stuff at school,” said Rebecca.

“We’re interviewing people about the trip for the show.”

While most of the students had digital SLR cameras, GoPros, iPhones and more, one student was relying on the art of film.

“It’s more fun,” said Shayla Fante, a senior.

“I can develop them at school, and I’ll get to see what I captured.”

She said she felt more comfortable using film and was excited to see what she captured.

The student art exhibition is scheduled for March 11 and 12 on the Harbor walkway.

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SHOP & DINE Dana Point Harbor