February 21, 2013 by San Clemente Times

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LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 8

Will There Be a Bag Ban? Effort to ban single-use plastic bags will go before council next month E Y E O N S C / PAG E 6

A proposal for a ban on single-use plastic bags, like the one show here near the pier, will go before the San Clemente City Council next month. Photo by Jim Shilander

www.sanclementetimes.com

Council Approves North Beach El Camino Real Parking Lot

Triton Teams Fall in State Playoffs

INSIDE: 42nd Annual Festival of Whales Event Guide

EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

SPORTS/PAGE 24

PULLOUT SECTION

EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SC S a n C le m e n te

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO A group of residents took to the podium during Tuesday night’s meeting of the San Juan Capistrano City Council to object the Chamber of Commerce’s suggestion to temporarily open the El Horno Street undercrossing during construction of the Ortega Highway/Interstate 5 interchange. Those who spoke out— eight in all with others in the crowd holding signs in protest—indicated they all lived on or near El Horno Street, located in the city’s second oldest residential neighborhood, Mission Flats. Currently, the undercrossing is only opened for emergency access and special occasions and is not wide enough to handle two-way traffic, according to Cathy Salcedo, the city’s executive services manager. Junipero Serra Road to the north and San Juan Creek Road to the south serve as the city’s two other alternate routes for east-west traffic.

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOI N G O N I N OU R NE IGH B O R I N G TOWN S

The Dana Point City Council voted unanimously to direct staff to move forward with a five-phase construction plan to kick-start the Town Center Project at Tuesday’s meeting. “As I tell my wife, don’t buy green bananas, I’m tired of waiting,” said Mayor Steven Weinberg, who served on the Town Center Subcommittee eight years ago. The council and California Coastal Commission approved the $16 to $19 million project—designed by the San Francisco based ROMA Design Group—in 2008, but when the economy halted, so did Town Center construction plans. Taking a new approach to the execution of Town Center plans, Brad Fowler, city director of Public Works and Engineering, unveiled a phased plan that would have the least impact on local businesses and the city’s budget. The five-part approach will first tackle road construction along Pacific Coast Highway.

SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With... 1

…Beach Parking?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council approved moving forward with a proposed parking lot on city owned land on El Camino Real near North Beach between Kaylani Coffee and Ichibiri Tuesday. However, the council declined to begin the development process on a proposal for a three-level parking structure located at the corner of El Camino Real and Avenida Pico (referred to as “the Gallery” site). The El Camino Real lot would add 33 spots at a cost of approximately $700,000 for construction. City resident Brad Malamud, who is suing the city to recover beach parking funds he said were not spent in a timely manner since collection began in 1989, spoke at the meeting and told the council they were attempting to fix a problem that didn’t exist. “This whole thing is a sham,” Malamud said. “I don’t know where this is coming from.” Other residents voiced concern about potentially spending funds earmarked for beach parking that might have to be returned, particularly if they had to be returned out of the city’s general fund. The council voted 3-1, with Mayor Bob Baker voting no (and member Tim Brown absent), to proceed with the initial projects, including seeing if the Gallery site would even be available for sale. WHAT’S NEXT: While not discussing the specifics of Malamud’s suit, city attorney Jeff Goldfarb said at the meeting that he expected a resolution through the courts within six months. FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, see www.sanclementetimes.com. — Jim Shilander

San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

…Marblehead Development Breakthrough? THE LATEST: The city council approved an agreement Tuesday that resolves the city’s lawsuit against Arch Insurance on the Marblehead Coastal Development. Lisa Gordon, a representative of Lehman Brothers, which took over the residential development portion of the property indicated that the company would begin major site work this year, including the construction of two parks and trails this spring. The approved agreement also calls for work on Avenida Pico and Avenida Vista Hermosa to be completed. WHAT’S NEXT: In response to a question from council member Lori Donchak, Gordon indicated that Lehman would likely not begin a marketing program for the project until next year. “We want to add value to the property first,” Gordon said. Gordon also agreed to come before the council to inform them of milestones in the project as it progressed.

WHAT’S NEXT: The investigation is ongoing and no arrests have been made. FIND OUT MORE: For updates on the story, see www.sanclementetimes.com. — JS

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, see www. sanclementetimes.com — JS

matchsticks stuck in them and feared they might be explosives. Krause said that fear appeared to be well founded. The tennis balls had a slit cut into them and had a small amount of explosive and ball bearings inside, along with the match. The bomb squad indicated the bombs were constructed incorrectly, and likely wouldn’t have gone off if they’d been tossed. But the ball bearings inside could have caused injuries had the bombs gone off.

…Tennis Ball Bombs?

THE LATEST: Members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad discovered three tennis-ball bombs Thursday afternoon on South El Camino Real, according to department spokeswoman Gail Krause. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Blotter, a call came from the C-Vu Motel at 3:22 p.m. A caller indicated there had been a verbal argument with another person earlier in the day. The caller discovered three tennis balls with

…SONGS Documents being released?

THE LATEST: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has asked Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which constructed the replacement steam generators at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, for a redacted copy of its study on the root causes of the failure at Unit 3. The report will eventually be made public. The document became a source of controversy two weeks ago as Senator Barbara Boxer and Rep. Ed Markey asked the NRC to investigate claims that Southern California Edison and Mitsubishi knew the design of the steam generators was faulty. Edison has denied any such knowledge. NRC chairwoman Allison Macfarlane wrote to Boxer last week indicating that an investigation into the documents was underway. WHAT’S NEXT: NRC Region IV spokesperson Victor Dricks indicated the redacted version of the Mitsubishi report would first be reviewed by NRC staff and then

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released to the public. Dricks said an announcement would be made at that time. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, see www. sanclementetimes.com. — JS

…I-5 Projects’ Effect on Schools?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District is looking for ways to mitigate the impacts of two major construction projects scheduled to begin this year along I-5. Representatives from Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority provided updates of their respective projects to the CUSD Board of Trustees during a pair of informational presentations last Wednesday night. Caltrans will begin restriping work and install K-rails for the Ortega Highway/I-5 Interchange Project next Tuesday, according to spokesman David Richardson. The district has already met with the city of San Juan Capistrano and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to discuss possible traffic solutions, including opening the El Horno Street undercrossing for buses and starting a shuttle service, Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton said. Meanwhile, the first phase of OCTA’s South County I-5 Improvement Project will begin this summer with the addition of northbound and southbound carpool lanes, according to spokeswoman Julie Toledo. Major construction to rebuild the Avenida Pico/I-5 interchange will begin in the summer of 2014. WHAT’S NEXT: Toledo told the board that in a previous project, OCTA has told their construction crews to modify their schedules when students prepare for and take their state standardized tests. THE LATEST: For the full story, visit www. sanclementetimes.com. —Brian Park www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

What’s Behind the Plastic Bag Ban Effort? Proponents see effort as keeping up with the times By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

proposed ban on single use plastic bags in San Clemente isn’t likely to go before the City Council for initial consideration until next month, but it’s already generated controversy in town. Assistant City Engineer Tom Bonigut said the council will consider the ban among a number of other proposals as part of a priorities workshop currently planned for mid-March. Bonigut said the Coastal Advisory Commission, which is recommending the ban, will ask the council to consider directing staff members to begin working on ordinance for future consideration. The council first considered a ban in 2009, but decided to take no action at that time. A similar proposal went before the council last year but was not considered a priority. Only one member of the council, Lori Donchak, indicated she wished to include it on the city’s priority list for the year. She said her vote was based on a sense of stewardship. “We are a beach city,” Donchak said. “Our job is to take care of the ocean.” Donchak said she had initially supported a statewide effort to ban plastic bags, but when that effort failed to move forward, she hoped to move forward with an initiative at the local level. “It’s a total package,” Donchak said. “We’re trying to get people to use reusable bags, so we also need to create a disincentive to use paper bags.” Donchak said she wanted to wait for a specific proposal to come before the council before she would commit to supporting another attempt at a ban. Donchak expressed trust in city staff to look at what the consequences of such a ban would be, as well as the potential for such a proposal to hold up in court if need be. “I would have to see what the new proposal would look like,” Donchak said. Former council member Jim Dahl did not vote to prioritize the ban proposal. Dahl said he didn’t believe it was a major priority for the city to consider immediately, but also said he opposed a ban on a philosophical basis. “I think its overkill,” Dahl said. Opponents of bag bans, including a group called the “Save the Plastic Bag Coalition” based in Los Angles, question any positive impact of banning plastic bags. A paper prepared by the organization in 2010 states that evidence from San FranSan Clemente Times February 21-27, 2013

Proponents of a plastic bag ban in San Clemente contend that the city needs to act as a steward of the ocean. Plastic bags, like the one shown here underneath the pier, are commonly found on San Clemente beaches.. Photo by Jim Shilander

cisco indicated that shoppers are not likely to switch to reusable bags but instead use paper, which the organization claims causes more environmental damage in their manufacturing than plastic. “The fact that plastic bags do not degrade in landfills ‘for a thousand years’ is an environmental benefit,” the paper, which was written in 2010 and is available at www.savetheplasticbag.com, states. “The state of California is trying to find ways to prevent greenhouse gases from escaping from landfills. Plastic does it automatically.” The organization also claims that reusable bags are themselves a health hazard. A University of Arizona study reported in 2010 that reusable bags were not washed regularly and often harbored bacteria. That study, however, has been questioned, as plastic bag manufacturers funded it. William Hart, the chairman of the Coastal Advisory Commission, said his interest was first piqued by a presentation made to city officials made in 2009 by Charles Moore, a yachtsmen who discovered the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” in 1997 after completing a Los Angeles to Hawaii sailing race. The patch is composed primarily of plastic and located in the North Pacific Gyre, which is home to one of the largest ecosystems in the world. The size of the patch is disputed, with opponents of bag bans claiming the size to be much smaller than Moore’s estimate, which put the size of the area at twice the size of Texas. Moore’s dramatic testimony led to Hart considering ways that San Clemente might be effecting the environment.

“I’m not a purist in the environmental realm,” Hart admits. “Certain products have had a great benefit to society, and the environment has to be weighed against other benefits.” What Hart said struck him most about Moore’s discovery was that such a large accumulation of garbage had come in a relatively short time. Moore first happened upon the garbage patch in 1997, less than a century after the first widely available consumer plastics came on the market. “It’s really very new in our society that we’ve gone to have this level of disposable products we just throw away,” Hart said. Plastic bags, he said, seemed to be a potentially good place to try and start to cut down on such waste. What also moved Hart, however, was the growing list of cities and counties in the state that have adopted bag bans. “If San Clemente were the only city in California to enact a ban, what difference would it make,” Hart asked rhetorically. “The cumulative effect of all these cites and counties is pretty substantial.” Bonigut also noted that an effort to ban plastic bags statewide was also being considered in the state assembly. Currently, the state requires stores to adopt an in— store recycling program for plastic bags. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, no state currently has a state-wide ban, although Hawaii has a de facto ban, because all four counties in the state have enacted a ban. At previous meetings of the Coastal Advisory Commission, Bonigut had indicated that he’d spoken with representatives of the grocery industry, one of the primary

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users of single use plastic bags, who had indicated that the industry would not oppose a ban in San Clemente, so long as any ordinance banning plastic bags also included a small fee to be assessed on consumers for using paper bags, which are more expensive to produce. A spokesperson for the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce indicated that the organization would support any effort to help the environment. Chamber President Lynn Wood said that when the organization volunteered to clean Poche Beach, she was surprised at the amount of litter, including plastic bags and polstyrene foam, on the beach. “I think the citizens of San Clemente are very cognizant of protecting the environment,” Wood said. Anecdotally, Wood said, she saw an increasingly large number of shoppers at grocery stores and other retailers using reusable bags. Most bans also differentiate between what plastic bags would be banned. Most bans still allow for the use of product bags, such as those in the produce section of a grocery store. Others make provisions allowing for the use of thicker types of plastic, similar to what a consumer might be given at a clothing store. Dana Point approved a ban on single use plastic bags last year, and it is being initiated in two phases this year. Larger stores, with over $4 million in sales for the year, must stop using the bags on April 1. Smaller stores have until September 1 to comply. Stay tuned to the San Clemente Times for information on the proposal as it moves toward a future appearance on the city council agenda. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter CO M P I L E D BY E LYS I A G A M O All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Tuesday, February 19 DISTURBANCE Calle Escalones, 100 Block (10:55 p.m.) A woman reported that her sister was being physical with their 72-year-old father. The woman said her brothers were at the home, attempting to restrain her sister and keeping her from becoming violent. PETTY THEFT Avenida Cabrillo, 200 Block (5:02 p.m.) The caller said their son’s iPhone had been stolen at school that day. The caller tracked the phone to the location. HIT AND RUN MISDEMEANOR Avenida Navarro, 100 Block (11:52 a.m.) A caller reported a gray Toyota sideswiped his vehicle. The driver of the Toyota was described as a 35- year-old bald man wearing a green shirt and brown pants. When the caller asked to exchange information he refused. He was last seen five days ago parking his vehicle on Molina. DISTURBANCE – FAMIY FEUD Marquita, 100 Block (9:12 a.m.) A woman reported that her grandmother was in the hospital and her grandson had stolen her car. The caller said the grandson had narcotics and had threatened to kill his cousin. The rest of the family wanted to report it. SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Pico, 500 Block (1:36 a.m.) At the Shell Station, a man was reported passed out in the passenger seat of a Honda hatchback at a gas pump for 40 minutes.

Monday February 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Bolivia, 400 Block (11:29 p.m.) San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

A man dressed in black from head to toe was sitting in his white sedan. He left to go into the park and came back into his vehicle. The caller thought he looked suspicious.

Calle Mandarina (8:39 p.m.) A woman’s nephew threatened to kill her over the phone. He is in his 20s and was currently with her. She thinks he owns weapons because he came from Texas.

of school at 1:30 p.m. and that he was granted custody of them on Thursdays after school. He had gone to the children’s mother’s house and found that she and his kids were not there.

DISTURBANCE Calle Vista Del Sol Block 0 (8:31 p.m.) A caller’s 17-year-old daughter had anger issues and punched a hole through the window. Medics were refused. She calmed down and was resting in her room.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Del Prado, 0 Block (6:00 p.m.) A woman called police because she had entered her neighborhood and spotted a man who seemed to be under the influence. He was wearing a white shirt, skinny jeans and a dark beanie. He was looking into windows of houses and tried to follow her when she went walking.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 2400 Block (3:22 p.m.) A caller reported having been in a verbal argument with another person. The caller had then just found three tennis balls with matchsticks stuck in them and thought they were a type of explosive.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Serra, 100 Block (11:56 a.m.) A woman said her ex-roommate had been breaking into her place since last October to rearrange her furniture.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Pico, 500 Block (1:56 a.m.) A female customer at Denny’s was possibly drunk. She was described as a 5-foot 2-inch tall juvenile with long black hair and wearing a black dress. She had been there for two hours and refused to pay; she was last seen laying in the restaurant.

Sunday February 17 DISTURBANCE Camino Del Rio/Camino De Los Mares (8:28 p.m.) An unknown number of juveniles were reported dressed up in costumes and walking in traffic lanes.

Friday February 15

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle Lausen, 200 Block (7:50 p.m.) A woman said her 25-year-old daughter was lying in the gutter and was unresponsive. The caller said her daughter was an alcoholic and had recently been in the hospital for five days.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Camino De Estrella, 500 Block (3:30 p.m.) A 26-year-old woman was reported drunk. She was described as a KMart employee wearing a white top and shorts with tattoos on her legs. She reportedly smelled like alcohol and was acting intoxicated.

ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON Calle Casino, 3700 Block (6:53 p.m.) A woman reported a 15-or 16-year-old juvenile male shooting at her house with a BB gun and eventually hit her hand. He also threatened to shoot her 11-year-old son. She notified the boy’s mother and the she said she would take the gun away. The caller did not believe her and left it to the police to handle.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Patricia, 100 Block (9:14 a.m.) Four men were found smoking narcotics near the pool. One man who was described as having brown eyes and blonde hair was arrested and released the next day.

DISTURBANCE - FAMILY FEUD Avenida Montalvo, 200 Block (5:20 p.m.) A woman said that she had to run out of her house wearing only her robe because her husband was acting crazy, screaming and charging at her. She waited outside until the police showed up. DISTURBANCE-MECHANICAL Avenida Mariposa, 200 Block (7:46 a.m.) On the cross streets of La Paloma and Calle Puente, noisy construction on a house was disturbing neighbors, especially since it was holiday weekend.

Saturday February 16 DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 200 Block (9:16 p.m.) A man reported a 50-year-old man was yelling at a woman, who was crying next to him at the bar. The caller also reported that a drunken woman was making sexual gestures and he thought she was getting out of control. TERRORIST THREATS

DISTURBANCE Calle Valle, 1400 Block (1:54 a.m.) Four to five males broke a sign and started to use the pieces to hit each other. The men got into their cars and pulled out onto Calle Valle.

Thursday, February 14 DISTURBANCE – FAMILY FEUD Estampida, 3100 Block (10:21 p.m.) A man attempted to get on the phone, but then a young female got on the line and said her father was attempting to kick her mother out. A scuffle was heard, the girl started to cry and then the line was disconnected. BATTERY REPORT La Venida, 2900 Block (7:39 p.m.) A caller reported being shot several times with an air pellet gun while taking a jog. The jogger said the shooters were in a dark colored Scion XB. COURT ORDER VIOLATION Via Adrian (3:27 p.m.) A man called the police claiming his two children, ages 11 and 8, were taken by their mother and aunt. He said his children were taken out

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SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Plaza Estival, 400 Block (11:30 a.m.) The caller’s son saw a 50-year-old woman with short black hair walk out of their garage about an hour earlier. Nothing was stolen. The woman left in a black two-door sedan. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Alameda Lane, 100 Block (2:03 a.m.) A woman reported seeing a dark colored vehicle on the pier. There were multiple people who had flashlights going into the Fisherman’s restaurant; their lights turned off whenever a train passed by. The restaurant was under repair.

Wednesday, February 13 UNKNOWN TROUBLE El Camino Real, 200 Block (10:11 p.m.) A woman called to report someone trying to kick in the outer door of her apartment complex. The dispatcher reported hearing loud banging in the background. The banging was discovered to have been coming from a woman who was locked outside of her apartment. DISTRUBING THE PEACE Acebo Lane, 300 Block (9:45 p.m.) A woman reported seeing two males in a physical fight from her upstairs unit on the deck. She reported hearing kicking from one of the males who was wearing a red long sleeved shirt and had short dark hair. There were no weapons seen, but she said she heard a female scream, “Andrew stop, you’re killing him.” DISTURBANCE – FAMILY FEUD Buena Vista, 300 Block (5:14 p.m.) A caller reported a man around 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 300 pounds went home drunk, igniting a family dispute. The wife said once he arrived home he began to wreck things and push her around. The man was still at the house and was not on any medications. STORE DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 800 Block (9:46 a.m.) A man was reportedly being disruptive inside a store and refusing to put his cigarette out. He had been seen in the store a few times before and threatened customers. As soon as the caller told the man that they were going to call the cops, he replied, “bring them on.” www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, February 21 Coastal Advisory Committee Meeting 7 p.m. Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

Friday, February 22 Birthday Celebration Noon. Celebrate February birthdays at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center with lunch and entertainment by Rick McClellan. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322. Ribbon Cutting 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Grand opening ceremony at Avana San Clemente, 1100 Calle del Cerro, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

Saturday, February 23 FOL ‘Meet the Authors’ Luncheon 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. The 2013 San Clemente “Meet the Authors” with national best-selling writers at Arroyo Trabuco Golf and Country Club. Tickets $60. 26772 Avery Pkwy., Mission Viejo, www.sanclementefol.org.

Sunday, February 24 San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.

Tuesday, February 26 Beaches, Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting 6 p.m. San Clemente Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org. South Coast Singers Auditions 6:30 p.m. Choir Room at Dana Hills High School. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.613.7840, www.southcoastsingers.org. Toastmasters 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking every Tuesday in a friendly and supportive atmosphere at the library, 242 Ave. Del Mar, 949.361. 8463, www. sanclemente.freetoasthost.net.

Wednesday, February 27 Adult Book Discussion Group 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m. Discuss a featured book at the library; contact the information desk for book for details. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org. SC Rotary Club Noon. Irons in the Fire, 150 Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.3619, www.sanclementerotary.org. San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Jim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Animal Services Starting Low Cost Spay and Neuter Program u The Coastal Animal Services Authority, in partnership with Estrella Veterinary Hospital and the Pet Project Foundation, is introducing a low-cost spay and neuter program for dogs and cats. The program will be made available to residents of San Clemente, Dana Point and Capistrano Beach who are active duty military personnel or residents whose income levels fall under the program’s “low-income” restrictions. Low income represents a single person making no more than $40,000 per year or no more than $75,000 annually for a couple or family. The spaying and neutering procedures will be conducted at Estrella Veterinary Hospital in Capistrano Beach. The animal shelter staff will process the required paperwork and be present at the vet hospital to check in people and their animals for surgery. Please contact the animal shelter for further details at 949.492.1617 or visit the animal shelter at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente.

Jazzercise Event to Benefit CHOC

Past presidents of the San Clemente Women’s Club were honored at the group’s 65th anniversary celebration February 11. Courtesy Photo

with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. This interactive broadcast multimedia center will provide patients with another outlet for healing while they engage in creative activities related to radio, TV and media. CHOC will be the first hospital on the West Coast to have this broadcast center. The event is being sponsored by the Dana Point Yacht Club, which will also host the class at 24399 Dana Drive, Dana Point. Jazzercise students from all over Orange County are invited as well as any one that would like to experience a jazzercise class and support CHOC. A $10 requested donation will be accepted at the door. To donate, visit www.chocfollies.org.

u Orange County Jazzercise Instructors

Resource Center Hosting Family Crisis Workshop

and Students will be raising money for Children’s Hospital of Orange County by staging a benefit dance-fitness class Sunday, February 24 at 9 a.m. at the Dana Point Yacht Club. CHOC will use the donations under the CHOC Follies fundraising efforts to fund their in-house radio station in partnership

u The Community Resource Center of San Clemente has partnered with the County of Orange Behavioral Health Services Prevention and Intervention team to host a free 12week workshop, for children (ages 7-17) and parents, that will focus on issues common to

families in crisis such as safety, communication, problem solving and effective parenting. The program attempts to reduce the impact of trauma, decrease stressors that trigger the onset of mental health problems and increase overall family resiliency. Dinner will be provided at no cost to all attendees and child-care is available. The workshop will be held at the Community Resource Center of San Clemente, located at 119 N. Avenida de la Estrella. Classes will be held every Monday starting on February 25 and run through May 13. Classes will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Spanish translation is available. To pre-register, contact Helene Shotwell at 714.480.4678.

Mom’s Group Hosting Fundraising Event u The San Clemente Presbyterian Church and Mothers of Preschoolers organization are hosting a Spring Boutique and Craft Fair on Saturday, March 9, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the church, located at 119 Avenida De La Estrella. The event will include sales of jewelry, frocks, pottery, baked goods, health and wellness items and baby wear, among other items. The Easter Bunny will also be on the scene for photographs between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information, contact 949.375.1011, or scpcmops10@gmail.com.

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

PAWS FUNDRAISER SET FOR SUNDAY

en years ago Chris Pernick spent her days disliking climbing the corporate ladder and her evenings enjoying walking countless homeless dogs at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. It was during her many hours spent volunteering at the shelter when she made a decision that would change her life and the lives of lots of lucky dogs. In 2005, Pernick and her husband Larry opened Paws Pet Resort in San Clemente, and in 2007 they added a second location in Lake Forest. Pernick left the rat race for the dog runs and now spends her time nurturing animals at her doggie daycare, rescuing dogs from kill shelters, and partnering with the Shelter to fundraise and care for abandoned and homeless animals. Pernick created a friendly and fun environment for dogs to stay when their parents are away. “At the time we opened there were very few places like ours,” Pernick said. The 13,000 square-foot facility includes

doggie day camp, training, and grooming services. Dogs spend their days socializing and exercising, and their nights relaxing in their own luxury suite that includes a television. “We do our best to treat your dog like part of our family,” said Pernick. Paws also provides 24-hour on site staff and doggie webcams for vacationing owners to watch their pups at play. While Paws opened as a doggie daycare, it didn’t take long to evolve into a charitable rescue organization. Three years ago, Pernick added the nonprofit Paws Pet Resorts Rescue to their business. Pernick rescues dogs on their last day from kill shelters in Orange County and Devore. “We’re proud that over the past three years we have rescued more than 180 dogs,” she said. Pernick also helps the shelter and Pet Project Foundation by housing some of their homeless dogs. And, she’s a sponsor of PPF’s annual fundraiser, “A Tail of Two

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Cities” on February 24 at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa (www.petprojectfoundation.org). “The reason the shelter is non-kill is because of PPF. They raise over $500,000 a year for the shelter, they do all the fundraising and they run the volunteer organization,” said Pernick. Event tickets are $150 each and include a three-course dinner, live Oscar broadcast, silent auction and plenty of PawParazzi on the red carpet. All proceeds benefit the shelter and its spay and neuter programs, veterinary care, food purchases and much more. Since her career change nearly a decade ago, Pernick has cared for and helped rescue hundreds of lucky dogs. But, if you ask Pernick, she says she’s the lucky one. “I love playing with the dogs every day—there’s no way you can be grumpy if you’ve got a cute little dog licking your face.” — Shelley Murphy www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com

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S a n C le m e n te

San Clemente Times, Vol. 8, Issue 8. The SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.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 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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Michele Reddick, 949.388.7700, x103 mreddick@sanclementetimes.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

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PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

ART/DESIGN

OPERATIONS

EDITORIAL

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Finance Director > Mike Reed

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Elysia Gamo, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Garrett Yancey

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

Sales Associate Angela Edwards

Letters to the Editor SOLVING THE PARKING PROBLEM ON DEL MAR AL MEICHLER, San Clemente

After reading the January 24 letter “Parking an Issue on Del Mar”, I noticed parking cops running around town marking tires. I’ve lived in San Clemente since 1980 and it’s never been this bad. Then on Saturday, February 2, I took several visitors downtown for lunch and shopping. No parking anywhere on Del Mar and no parking at any of the threehour lots around Del Mar. It was quite frustrating. Then I solved the problem. We went to Dana Point Harbor, dropped about $400 and had a pleasant afternoon. No parking issues. I marvel at my own genius.

GROMS MUST RESPECT OTHERS IN THE WATER KIRSTEN AMAVISCA, San Clemente

Surfing in San Clemente is obviously a popular pastime, and for many, even a

career. While I appreciate how intertwined surfing is with our community, I am amazed and embarrassed at times, when I happen to find myself surfing during local school’s surf physical education hour. Some of these kids think they own the water—yelling, cursing, singing and generally being incredibly rude. I’m glad they have the opportunity to surf before school, but their lack of respect or regard for others in the water is astounding to say the least, and a very poor reflection of the coaches, parents and anyone else who should teach them not only water skills, but respect for others and the ocean. I know there are lots of great parents, coaches and groms—but for the loud and the rude, there is more to surfing than catching a wave.

THREE STORY STRUCTURE A BAD IDEA MARK SCHROEDER, San Clemente

The idea that City Council would even

entertain the idea of spending $7.23 million to build a three-story parking structure that would block ocean views and seriously affect the charm of North Beach when the existing parking lot is almost always 80 percent empty (never once have I seen it completely full) blows my mind. Are these council members insane? Are they on dope? They cannot even manage to get any progress done on the Ole Hanson Beach Club in the over 13 months it has been closed down, don’t have any idea how they are going to pay for the unnecessary changes to the club they want for no good reason and now they think they are going to force this on the citizens of San Clemente? This is utterly ridiculous. I can hardly believe what I am reading, but apparently this is par for the course with those running our fair city. After thinking it over, I can surmise what is motivating this madness. There is a local resident who has been squealing about the money sitting in a parking fund that has not been spent and

Word on the Web A sampling of what people are saying on sanclementetimes.com In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides the ability for readers to comment on stories posted on our online edition. The opinions expressed are those of the commenters alone, and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence. To respond to a comment, log on to www.sanclementetimes.com. DAVE: On a proposed ban on single use plastic bags in San Clemente. “This tiny town is not ruining its future generations by electing to use plastic bags. If people like ‘(Craig) Adams’ above want to feel better about themselves by not usSan Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

ing the bags then go right ahead, but don’t force their agenda on everyone else in the process. Unless there are actual stats to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that our use of these bags is having a serious impact on our collective zip codes, drop it already. You feel good people want to avoid plastic bags, install solar panels on your roofs, windmills in your yards and drive your electric cars? Go for it.” CRYSTAL STRAIT: On the recently enacted city beach maintenance plan. “The beach is a great place to go in the summer and attracts a lot of visitors to the city increasing revenue. I definitely think

it would be beneficial for the city to place sand over the cobble and do what they can to provide the most beautiful beach possible.” DAVE: Also reacted to former City Council member Wayne Eggleston’s column about steps the city has taken to become more business friendly. “We get it Wayne, business bad, growth bad and stagnant good. Don’t want to be HB South blah, blah, blah. How about some stats on various business applications and how many actually get through compared to other OC cities of the same size? San Clemente can create all of the easy paths to expediting busi-

Page 12

he wants a refund. So the city council has decided that rather than give the millions of dollars back to the citizens of San Clemente, they had better hurry up and spend it no matter how asinine the project is. I hope I can count on my fellow residents to show up and voice opposition to this ridiculous idea of a three-story parking structure. North Beach is crowded enough with the parking we have on the weekends during the summer, if they want to add more parking at street level? Fine. But the very idea of a concrete monstrosity at the north entrance to San Clemente is so idiotic (no offense to idiots) that Ole Hanson must be rolling in his grave. To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ sanclementetimes.com. San Clemente 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. Please limit your letters to 350 words.

CORRECTION: Last week’s cover story on properties on Del Mar contained incorrect information. The Gino’s Jewelers building has not been sold. The value mentioned in the story reflected a sale of a property across the street. The SC Times regrets the error. ness apps, but what does that matter when some who believe they have the clout stand in the way as though it is they who have the final say. Get a CUP and have a hiccup with one of it’s terms and make no mistake that a watchdog with an agenda will do what he can to yank that CUP. Let’s not forget who local business hires for employment. That’s right, citizens of San Clemente.” www.sanclementetimes.com

2013 Festival of Whales Coloring Contest

Every child who enters

WINS one FREE

Whale Watching or Fishing Ticket for kids 9 & under ALL ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN MARCH 13, 2013

GRAND PRIZE Let the seagulls sing you to sleep… with a one-night beach get-a-way for a family of four in a Ocean View Suite, at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach in beautiful Dana Point, CA. A warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie at check-in is the hotel’s promise of a warm and caring experience. IN ADDITION, Breakfast for four at Proud Mary’s in the Dana Point Harbor! And a whale watching trip for four from Dana Wharf Sportfishing!

www.danawharf.com

COURTESY OF DANA WHARF SPORTFISHING AND WHALE WATCHING

DANAWHARF.COM *No photo copies will be entered.* Mail completed entry form & coloring page to: Dana Wharf Sportfishing, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, CA 92629 Contestant’s Name Address

Age

Parent/Legal Guardian

Phone

Email I would like to recieve a child’s PLEASE CHECK ONE

Whale Watching Ticket

Fishing Ticket SC

Contest is open to all children ages 9 and under. Two free kids with one paid adult. All entries must be received by March 13, 2013 for judging. Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times, The Capistrano Dispatch and Dana Wharf Sportfishing assume no responsibility for lost or late entries. All completed entries will receive one free kids tickets with one paid adult ticket, complaints of the Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching, mailed to the address on the contest entry. We do not accept the tickets on any group outing, and no copies are valid. The grand prize winner will be contacted by telephone. Some entries will be displayed around Dana Point Harbor during the 2013 Festival of Whales. The Grand Prize entry will be displayed at Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Contest entries will become the property of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and cannot be returned. Employees of Picket Fence Media, Dana Wharf Sportfishing and their families are not eligible to win. All winners are responsible for taxes and applicable fees. All parents/legal guardians of the winners will be required to verify identity through a signed affidavit, social security number and valid driver’s license. Contest void where prohibited. Entry into this contest will serve as entrant’s agreement of the above contest rules. Coloring contest winner will be notified by phone on March 18th, 2013.

WELCOME TO DANA POINT’S 42ND ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WHALES By Steven Weinberg, Mayor of Dana Point

Welcome to Dana Point as we begin celebrating our 42nd annual Festival of Whales beginning with the Festival of Whales parade on Saturday, March 2. I am very proud to announce that the 2013 Parade Grand Marshal is Staff Sergeant Mark Zambon of the United States Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Pendleton. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Selva and continues along Pacific Coast Highway through Town Center, ending at the Festival of Whales Street Fare at La Plaza Park. The Festival of Whales celebrates the southern migration of the California gray whales along the coastal bluffs of Dana Point with several events over two weekends: March 2-3 and March 9-10.

There are activities for everyone throughout the festival, including whale watching excursions, historic and marine science education, car shows, active water and land experiences, art, film and lots of live music—all conveniently connected via a free shuttle service. Festival of Whales is a Dana Point community celebration and partnership with the Festival of Whales Committee of Dana Point Harbor merchants, the Chamber of Commerce, the OC Dana Point Harbor Department, the city of Dana Point and many individuals, clubs, nonprofit groups, businesses and sponsors. Whatever your interests, I encourage you to take advantage of the many exciting activities during the twoweekend Festival of Whales. For more detailed day-byday event listings or to see the free shuttle route, turn the pages of this program or visit www.festivalofwhales.com. DP

YOUTH IN ACTION

Local teens add energy and fresh perspective to Festival of Whales

This year’s top five designs submitted by Dana Hills students are on display at the Dana Point Community Center through March 2. Shown here (L to R) are designs by winner Steven Kazarian and runners-up Frankie Michinok, Katie McAndrews, Bryan Emerson and Hasti Sharf. Photo by Brian Park

This year’s Festival of Whales logo contest winner Steven Kazarian (Dana Hills class of 2012) shows his winning design at the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, Calif., where he is a freshman. Photo by Brendan Buonsignore

As Dana Point celebrates the migration of the California gray whales past the landmark cliffs of the headlands, the Festival of Whales provides an impressive selection of fun and educational ways for young people—and others of all ages—to learn, as guests, about the majestic marine mammals. But, for the second year, the festival has expanded its behind-the-scenes participation of local youth. Last year Dana Hills High School students were invited to submit artwork for the festival logo and to display other work at the festival art exhibit, Art in the Park. Both programs have carried on. This year Dana Hills class of 2012 alum Steven Kazarian—now a freshman at the California Maritime Academy—was chosen and honored as the creator of this year’s logo and four runners-up were named. Ninety art students from Dana Hills once again found inspiration during a photography fieldtrip—whale watching aboard the Dana Wharf vessel Dana Pride and exploring

the Ocean Institute’s tallship brig Pilgrim. The program was also expanded for this year’s 42nd annual event to include more than visual arts. Culinary arts students will be competing in the chowder cook-off and the school is fielding three teams to compete in the sandsculpting contest. So while exploring the many great events and exhibits— from listening to the marching band in the parade to tasting chowder to viewing art—take note of the abundance of talent and enthusiasm the teens of Dana Point add to the festival. And don’t forget to make a point of visiting the Festival of Whales online at www.festivalofwhales.com and the Dana Point Times at www.danapointtimes.com to read the stories and see the artwork and photographs of these young people who add so much energy and fresh perspective to the city’s longest standing tradition. DP — Andrea Swayne

www.festivalofwhales.com

Photo by Nora Yeretzian

THE WHALES ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND... Visit the Festival of Whales for less with OCTA and Metrolink

Environmentally- and economically-conscious travelers will be glad to know that the Orange County Transportation Authority and Metrolink will once again be offering special deals to and from the Festival of Whales. For just $10, visitors can purchase a weekend pass, valid for system-wide travel from 7 p.m. Friday through 11:59 Sunday. Weekend passes can be purchased at any Metrolink station ticket vending machine. To get to the Festival of Whales from the San Juan Capistrano Metrolink station, take OCTA Bus Route 91 south to Dana Point. For bicycle riders, all Metrolink cars can accommodate bikes—just look for one of Metrolink’s special bicycle cars marked with large yellow signs that read “Bicycle Car.” From San Juan Capistrano, riders can take the bikeway to Dana Point and the festival. Full train and bus schedules can be found online at www. octa.net/metrolink/octa-promotions/festival-of-whales. OCTA and Metrolink are also offering special discounts at local businesses: • Display your Metrolink ticket, OCTA bus pass or 91 Express Lane transponder with Dana Wharf Whale Watching or the Ocean Institute for 50 percent off whale watching excursion ticket prices. To make reservations, call Dana Wharf Whale Watching at 949.496.5764 or the Ocean Institute at 949.496.2274. • Visitors to the Festival of Whales can stay overnight at the Dana Point Marina Inn for a special rate of $69, single or double occupancy. Make sure to mention the OCTA rate when you make reservations and show your ticket, bus pass or transponder when you check in. The Dana Point Marina Inn can be reached at 949.496.1203. • Show your ticket, bus pass or transponder at The Coffee Importers when you buy one premium coffee and get a second one for free. The offer expires March 31. The Coffee Importers is located at 34531 Golden Lantern Street, in Mariners Village in Dana Point Harbor. DP 3

FESTIVAL EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS ARTS AND CULTURE

two for $10; need not be present to win. Funds will benefit the Dana Point Library Summer Children’s Reading Program.

Art in the Park March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Local artists along with art students from Dana Hills High School display a variety of works on the grassy areas at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive.

Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

March 2, 3, 9, 10; 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point Fine Arts Association hosts an art show and sale on the Harbor Boardwalk along the boat docks in Mariner’s Village. Watercolor, oil, acrylic and photography by local artists will be available for purchase. A portion of the sales will be donated to the Dana Hills High School Art Department.

Historical Walking Tour of Town Center March

2, 3, 9, 10; 2 p.m. Meet a guide from the Historical Society—at the corner of Blue Lantern and PCH—for a historic Town Center walking tour of buildings, private homes and landmarks, circa 1924 to 1939. Event is free but donations will be accepted.

Polynesian Connection Festival March 9; 11 a.m.3 p.m. The Hula Connection, Senior Wish and the city of Dana Point present a day of Polynesian culture, music, dance and educational experiences on the stretch of lawn between Island Way and Baby Beach. Activities for kids such as lei making, Maori poi ball demonstrations and more will educate and entertain. The festival opens with a blessing by an official of the Juaneño/Acjachemen tribal nation, indigenous to the Dana Point area. Public Reading: ‘Two Years Before the Mast’

March 8, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; March 9, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and March 10, 9 a.m.-noon The Dana Point Historical Society hosts the third annual public reading of Richard Henry Dana Jr’s Two Years Before the Mast at the Nature Interpretive Center, 34558 Scenic Drive. Over 100 volunteer readers will read for eight to 10 minutes each. The event is free but donations will be gratefully accepted.

CLASSIC CARS So Cal Woodies March 2, noon-4 p.m.; March 3, 10 a.m.4 p.m. Woodie cars from the So Cal Woodie Club will be on display at the grassy areas along the Harbor walkway. Take a stroll and enjoy these iconic surf wagons of the past. Whale of a Classic Car Display March 9, 10;

10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Cal Rod Car Club, formed in 1954 in the San Gabriel Valley, will display approximately 40 classics and hot rods.

FOOD Dana Point Restaurant Week March 1-10 The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the return of Dana Point Restaurant Week. The city’s most talented chefs will personalize their menus to celebrate the Festival of the Whales. Check www.festivalofwhales.com for listings of participating restaurants and their offers. Grunion Run Whale of a Pancake Breakfast

March 9; 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Pancake breakfast will be served at Doheny State Beach. Cost is $6 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Bring your Grunion Run bib and receive $1 off 4

The new Polynesian Connection Festival will bring island culture to this year’s Festival of Whales. Courtesy photo

March 3; 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m. OC Parks presents a competition on the sand at Baby Beach. Teams from families and friends to hard-core sand sculpting enthusiasts are welcome. Sculpting areas are limited and available on a first come, first served basis. Choose one of five categories: castles, whales and ocean creatures, pirates and ships, woodies and surfboards, or patriotic emblems. Judging begins at 2:30 p.m. with awards to follow. Bring buckets and tools. Dyes and stabilizers are not allowed—all natural.

breakfast. Proceeds will benefit the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association and the State Lifeguard Association.

LEARNING ABOUT WHALES AND THE OCEAN ENVIRONMENT

Whale of a BBQ March 3, 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; March 9,

Art Lessons with Wyland March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-

11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Delicious barbecue specialties at affordable prices will be served adjacent to Baby Beach. Choose from tri-tip sandwiches, mouth-watering chicken sandwiches, scrumptious salads and more.

Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off March 9; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sample a variety of tasty chowders from local restaurants and organizations and then vote for your favorites along the Harbor walkway near Island Way. Cost is $5 for five tastes and $10 for 12. All proceeds will benefit Fish for Life, an organization that teaches fishing skills to people with special needs. Whale of a Concert BBQ March 10; noon-5 p.m.

Concessions for scrumptious barbecue specialties will be available during the Whale of a Concert. A Spirits Garden will be available for those over 21 years old with a valid driver’s license.

VFW Whale of a Pancake Breakfast March 3; 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Start your day with a delicious pancake breakfast, raffle prizes and entertainment, hosted by VFW Post 9934 and Ladies Auxiliary at the OC Sailing & Event Center. Adults are $6 and children under 12 are $3.

FUN AND GAMES Diamond Dig March 3; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Dig for buried treasure at the 4th annual Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club event at Baby Beach. Dress as a pirate and get a head start. Cost is $10 per shovel. Last year toys, bicycles and a diamond necklace were among the booty found. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities. Street Fare March 2; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Dana Point

Chamber of Commerce invites you to the annual Street Fare for an unforgettable day of food, music and entertainment for the whole family. The carnival-style fare begins immediately following the parade at Dana Point La Plaza Park.

Whale of a Rubber Ducky Race March 3; 11 a.m.-

2 p.m. The Dana Point Women’s Club hosts this fun spin on a traditional “rubber ducky race” at Baby Beach. Duckies may be purchased in advance by calling 949.859.7506 or the day of the event at the onsite DPWC table. Prizes awarded to the top three finishers. Cost is $6 per duck or

10:45 a.m. Learn from renowned environmental artist, Wyland at a dockside video presentation and art lesson aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran. Children can enter their art in a contest to receive a whale watching trip with Wyland. $5 per child. Proceeds benefit the Wyland Foundation.

Book Signing: ‘Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey’

March 9; 1 p.m.-2 p.m. Capt. Dave Anderson of Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari will sign copies of his book, Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey, inspired by true events. Readers join Lily on her adventures of discovery and wonder from Baja to Siberia while learning about a devastating problem that takes the lives of over 1,000 dolphins and whales worldwide every day. Books will be available for purchase and Capt. Dave will be giving away a free, signed copy.

Book Signing: ‘The Amazing Adventures of Captain Don’ March 2; 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Stop by Dana Wharf

Sportfishing for a book signing by Captain Don himself. The first 100 children (10 and under) will also have a picture taken with him. Buy a second book and get an opportunity to spin the prize wheel. Book sale proceeds will benefit the Gray Whale Foundation.

Capt. Dave’s Kids’ Carnival March 9; noon-2 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari Kids’ Carnival offers fun for the whole “pod.” Drop by the Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for free activities, prizes, games, crafts, face painting and more. Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum March 10; 11a.m.-3p.m. A variety of genuine

marine mammal artifacts will be on display at the Doheny State Beach’s Visitor Center, just inside the park entry station, for attendees to learn and gain an appreciation of these magnificent creatures of the sea. Alert entrance station staff upon arrival so they can direct you to an appropriate parking location. This event is free. Please note: free vehicle parking at Doheny State Beach for the Marine Mammal Museum is limited to one hour only. Rain cancels.

Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Marine mammals are among the most beloved icons of the California coast and yet much of their life (Cont. on page 6) www.festivalofwhales.com

(Cont. from page 4) history and biology remains a mystery. Attend the Marine Mammal Lecture Series at Harpoon Henry’s to learn some of the latest discoveries about them. Enjoy a continental breakfast as marine biologists and special guests present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. March 2: Doug Thompson on Gray whales and San Ignacio Lagoon; March 3: Dennis Kelly on bottlenose dolphin and sea otters; March 9: Alisa Schulman-Janiger on killer whales and the Gray Whale Census; March 10: Todd Mansur on Gray whales and migration. Following the lecture, board the OCean Adventures catamaran for whale watching. Lecture is free with purchase of the cruise and includes breakfast. Lecture and breakfast only is $5 per person, at the door. For tickets visit www.danawharf.com or call 949.496.5794.

Movie: ‘Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California’ March 9, 10; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit Capt. Dave’s

Dolphin & Whale Safari Dolphin Deck at 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive (near Baby Beach) for an exclusive free viewing of Captain Dave’s award winning documentary, Wild Dolphins and Whales of Southern California. Signed DVDs will be available for purchase. Screenings will be held every hour. In 1995 Capt. Dave mounted an underwater camera and hydrophone on the bow of his boat and began taking his cameras on every trip to record what his passengers experienced. It took him five years to create the documentary, an experience that has forever changed his life.Throughout the day relax and enjoy the Dolphin Deck with the best view in the harbor. Sandwiches, snacks, ice cream and refreshments available for purchase. For more information call 949.488.2828 or see www.dolphinsafari.com.

Ocean Awareness Day March 3; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association, Ocean Awareness Day features interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues, near Baby Beach at the OC Sailing & Events Center.

Ocean Institute’s World of Whales March 2, 3, 9, 10;

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and fascinating world of whales allowing visitors to explore a variety of fascinating phenomena unique to these magnificent animals. There will be opportunities to examine how they communicate and eat, to see how pollution can affect them, learn about ongoing research and create fun whale-themed crafts. Additional activities include animal feedings, ROV driving and tide pool touch tanks. Admission is $6.50 for adults (13 and up) and $4.50 for children (3 -12); Children 2 and under and members are free. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org.

Seashore Interpretive Family Hike March 2, 3, 9, 10;

times are based on tides Take a guided family tide pool hike through the Dana Point Marine Protected Area with Ocean Institute naturalists. Hikes are available on a first come, first served basis. Space is limited. Sign up at the front desk of the Ocean Institute. Free with paid admission.

Whale of a Beach Cleanup March 9; 9 a.m.-noon Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach. Meet Ranger Vicki at Lifeguard Headquarters and learn more about how you can help maintain our precious coastal resources. Whale Watching via Live Streaming Video

March 2, 3, 9, 10 Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari streams live video on www.whalewatchingtv.com from 6

Robertson, violinist Mira Khomik, tenor Joshua Guerrero and baritone Gregorio Gonzalez will be featured. Surfboard art by Paul Carter, Michael Brindley and Heather Ritts will also be on display. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students under 16 years, seniors over 65 and military with ID. Tickets can be purchased in advance at www.danapointsymphony.com.

Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ

Marines from Camp Pendleton march in the 2012 Festival of Whales Parade. Photo by Andrea Swayne

their hi-tech catamaran on the open ocean. Stop by the Dolphin Deck throughout the day to watch.

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure March 3, 9; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. From “devil fish” to “friendliest whale,” explore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of whales. Join the Ocean Institute for a tallship sailing adventure and gain new insights into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam our California coast. Non-member price is $40 for adults and $23 for children 12 and under. Members pay $36 for adults and $21 for children 12 and under. Minimum age to participate is 4. For more information, see www.ocean-institute.org.

MERCHANDISE Festival T-shirts and Sweatshirts March 2, 3, 9, 10 Short- and long-sleeved T-shirts and sweatshirts will be on sale throughout the Harbor during both weekends of the festival and available for purchase online at www.festivalofwhales.com. Click on “store.”

MOVIES Movie in the Park: ‘Flipper’ March 2; 6:30 p.m. Head to the grassy area of Baby Beach for a free showing of the 1963 box office hit Flipper (PG) presented by the city of Dana Point Community Services and Parks Department and the County of Orange. Free popcorn will be served and hot beverages and snacks will be available for purchase. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic dinner and enjoy this family friendly movie at dusk.

MUSIC Harbor Music Series March 2, 3, 9, 10; noon-3 p.m. A variety of music styles will be presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association in the Jolly Roger/Dana Wharf courtyard, the grassy area by Harpoon Henry’s, Mariner’s Village and Art in the Park. KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz Live Remote March 2; 9 a.m.-3

p.m. Stop in and visit with the DJs and staff from Saddleback College Radio KSBR 88.5 and enjoy a morning “cup of jazz” followed by entertainment throughout the day in the Dana Wharf courtyard area.

Opera and the Ocean March 8; 7:30 p.m. The Dana

Point Symphony Orchestra presents “Opera and the Ocean” at St. Edwards Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera. Concert features a new ocean-themed commission by composer Athena Adamopoulos and a video art commission from Alisa Lapidus of the LA Opera. Soprano Victoria

March 10, noon-5 p.m. The city of Dana Point and OC Dana Point Harbor present an outdoor concert at Baby Beach with bands performing atop a specially designed floating stage. The Dave Silver Band opens from noon to1 p.m., followed by the United States Air Force Mobility Rock Band from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Savor: a Tribute to Santana from 3:30 p.m. to 5 pm. Bring beach chairs, towels and blankets and enjoy an afternoon of musical entertainment. Concessions for barbecue specialties will also be available, along with a Spirits Garden for those over 21.

OUTDOOR AND WATER SPORTS Festival of Whales Grunion Run March 9; 7:45 a.m.10 a.m. The fifth annual Grunion Run features a 10K at 7:45 a.m., 5K Run/Walk at 9 a.m., Kids’ 1K Run at 9:45 a.m. and awards at 10 a.m. Free pre-run shuttle service begins at 6 a.m. Proceeds benefit the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association, a nonprofit organization which supports interpretive, educational programs at Doheny State Beach. For more information or to pre-register, visit www.festivalofwhalesgrunionrun.com. Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Fishing Trip March 3, 10; clinic noon-12:30 p.m.; fishing trip 12:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Dana Wharf Sportfishing invites all children to attend a dockside fishing clinic to learn hands-on angling techniques from the experts. Prizes will be raffled at the end of the lesson. Following the clinic Dana Wharf will run a fishing trip where kids 12 and under fish free including equipment. Adults are $44 plus license and equipment. For reservations, call 949.496.5794. Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup March 9; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Stand-up paddle with surfing legend Mickey Muñoz and friends at Baby Beach and enjoy a day of paddling fun, SUP clinics and camaraderie. The fifth annual event begins with the Fun Paddle around Dana Point Harbor Island. There will also be a SUPcross. All participants receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt and a barbecue lunch. Sailing Rides March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing—at the OC Sailing & Event Center—teaches passengers how to sail a Capri 14. Half-hour sessions are $15 per boat, three people max, ages 5 and up. Call 949.492.3035 for details. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 2, 3, 9, 10; 10 a.m.3 p.m. Join the SUP craze and learn why it’s the fastest growing water sport today. Westwind Sailing hosts 45-minute on-the-water clinics, on the hour, for ages 12 and up. Cost is $10 per person. Call 949.492.3035 for details.

PARADE Festival of Whales Parade March 2; 10 a.m. The parade features floats, bands, horses, giant balloons, community organizations and more, related to the festival theme, “Magical Migration.” Parade route runs along Pacific Coast Highway from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. www.festivalofwhales.com

GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL Parking Shuttle Stop Event Whale Watching Excursions/Viewing Festival Merchandise Shuttle Route Parade Route Shuttle Route First Saturday

Walking Directions from OCTA Bus Stop For those guests that are utilizing the OCTA bus stops on PCH, you can reach the Festival by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harborâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golden Lantern entrance area or you can enter Doheny State Park (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the green barrier fence, then proceed towards the beach to the marked Festival of whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations. Parking and FREE Shuttle Information The FREE shuttle runs each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and services most parking lots and event locations. Parking in the Harbor is free, but limited to four hours. Parking at Doheny State Park is $8 for the entire day.

Parade Day Shuttle (March 2) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to and at the conclusion of the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor and ride to the drop-off location for the northerly parade announcer stand. At the conclusion of the Parade meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor. 10K, 5K and 1K Grunion Run Shuttle (March 9) FREE shuttle service will begin at 6 a.m. with pick ups at the Ocean Institute, OC Sailing & Event Center and at Golden Lantern/ Dana Point Harbor Drive. Drops off directly at Doheny State Beach for the Grunion Run event. This shuttle will not service any other locations. Regular shuttle service will commence at 10 a.m. Whale of a Concert Shuttle (March10) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m. on March 10.

EVENT SCHEDULE Every Day of the Festival

E3 E7

Saturday, March 2

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. KSBR 88.5 FM Jazz – Live Remote

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E16 6 a.m.-10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run FREE Shuttle Service 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run Pancake Breakfast 7:45 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - 10K Run/Walk 9 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - 5K Run/Walk 9:45 a.m. Festival of Whales Grunion Run - Kids’ 1K Run

E15 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 5th Annual Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E15 1 a.m. – 2 p.m. Mongoose Cup BBQ

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E16 9 a.m. – Noon Whale of a Beach Cleanup – Festival of Whales Toast to the Coast

E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E11 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 2nd Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off E11 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.So Cal Woodies

10 a.m. – Noon Festival of Whales Parade

10 - 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E6 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land

E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E15 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Awareness Day

E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E15 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby

E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E15 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Diamond Dig

E9 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park

E2 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Street Fare E3

Saturday, March 9

• Whale Watching from Land and Sea • 2013 Festival of Whales Merchandise • FREE Shuttle Service • Dana Point Restaurant Week

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park E1

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series

E4 1 p.m.– 3 p.m. Free Book Signing and Fun Prizes E9 2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E8 8 a.m. – 11 a.m. Whale of a Pancake Breakfast, Raffle and Entertainment E15 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition www.festivalofwhales.com

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

Sunday, March 10 E5 9 a.m. – noon Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of Two Years Before the Mast

9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E6 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute E8 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E12 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Art in the Park

E8 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

E11 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Whale of a Classic Car Display

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Marine Mammal Lecture Series

E6 TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Ocean Institute

TBA based on tide Seashore Interpretive Family Hike

E16 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Doheny State Beach Mobile Marine Mammal Museum

Noon – 12:30 p.m. Kids Free Fishing Clinic

10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Stand-Up Paddling Clinics

E4 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing

12:45 p.m.–5:45 p.m. Kids Free Fishing Trip

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sailing Rides

10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild

Noon – 12:30 p.m. Kids Free Fishing Clinic

12:45 p.m.– 5:45 p.m. Kids Free Fishing Trip

E9 E6

E15 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Movie in the Park

Sunday, March 3

E15 Noon – 4 p.m. Whale of a BBQ

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E11 Noon – 4 p.m. So Cal Woodies

E6 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure

2 p.m.– 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour 2 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. Ocean Institute Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure

Friday, March 8 E5

1 p.m.– 5 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Public Reading of TwoYears Before the Mast

E13 7:30 p.m.– 9 p.m. Dana Point Symphony – Opera and the Ocean

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari Whale Watch From Land and Movie Viewing

E14 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Polynesian Connection E4

Noon – 2 p.m. Captain Dave’s Kids Carnival

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E15 Noon – 5 p.m. Whale of a Concert on the Water and BBQ E9 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Dana Point Historical Society Historical Walking Tour

E10 Noon – 3 p.m. Harbor Music Series E4

1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Win a Free Book at Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari 9

TRACKING THE MIGRATION Scientists use visual observation and photography to track individual gray whales during their annual migratory journey

During the Festival of Whales, keep your eye—and camera—out for the Eastern North Pacific (California) gray whale making its long journey down the coast of California. You’ll be witnessing the longest annual migration (10,000-12,000 miles) of any mammal on Earth, in much the same way scientists observe and track the By Kayla Causey whale population. The gray whale is a baleen whale that lives to be 50-70 years old and can reach a length of about 50 feet. Every October, after filling up on tiny crustaceans buried in the sea floor, 20,000 gray whales leave the Bering and Chukchi Seas of Alaska to find mates and birth calves in the warm—and orca-free—lagoons of Baja, Mexico. Gray whales fast during their entire journey—an incredibly taxing feat for a female whale who will soon birth and nurse a 13-foot, 2,000-pound calf. In California, we’re privileged to often see migrating gray whales right from our shores, thanks to their use of the coastline for navigation and protection from predators. Once they reach the lagoons between late December and early February, gray whales spend the next few months birthing and nursing calves and concluding their breeding season. In February and March, the first whales begin the northbound migration back to Alaska. Usually these are pregnant females. Mothers—referred to as cows—with

The “knuckles” on the back of a whale are one of the physical features researchers use to identify and study individual animals. Photo courtesy of James Gresham

newborn calves are the last to leave, and do so only when their calves are ready for the long journey home, usually in late March to mid-April. A gray whale nurses her calf for the entire journey up the coast, eating very little herself until she returns to the feeding grounds off of Alaska. Her milk is over 50 percent milk fat—think half-n-half coffee creamer—and her calf consumes between 50 and 80 gallons a day—about the amount contained in a large barrel. This continues for six to seven months. As a result, she loses over 30 percent of her body weight on the northbound migration. Once again in the cold waters of the Arctic, whales resume feeding. They do so by plowing up the ocean floor and filtering the mud and sand for crustaceans. Their “filter” is about 150 baleen plates, which are overlapping layers of hair-like bristles made of keratin—much like human fingernails—on the inside of their mouths. One whale alone will plow about 1-acre of sea floor between May and October. Nearly hunted to extinction in the 1850s and early 1900s, gray whales were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1969. They have since been removed after recovering to numbers in excess of 21,000. However, scientists continue to monitor the abundance of this population for two related reasons: They are important

“ecosystem engineers” because they redistribute large amounts of material when plowing up the seafloor, making food available for other marine species, and their annual migration makes them very vulnerable to environmental conditions. For instance, if Arctic sea ice breaks up very late in the spring, the feeding season is shortened and females can not store the fat necessary to maintain a pregnancy. As a result, birthing rates decline and low birth weight calves often don’t survive the northbound migration. We saw this pattern in 1999-2001 (data provided by Wayne Perryman of the National Marine Fisheries Service). Because gray whales are such an important part of their ecosystem, even a short-term variation in feeding patterns can have longterm impacts on the population and its environment. How do scientists track individual whales for study? One method we use to study these whales is to track individuals during their migration using photo-identification techniques. Rather than “tagging” a few animals with trackers, scientists photograph as many gray whales as they can. Then we use the photos to take measurements of these whales’ “knuckles,” the ridges on their back where you might expect a dorsal fin to be. We can use the relative distance between these ridges to assign a “dorsal ratio” as an identification number for animals we photograph. Data can then be used to determine re-sighting rates for whales migrating through Dana Point. This helps us understand whether the same whale follows the same route during each leg of the migration and/or year after year. We can also estimate the cumulative number of gray whales that migrate off of Dana Point. This information is important in helping scientists determine the role that our local waters play in the gray whale’s great migration. Kayla Causey received her Ph.D. from Florida Atlantic University in 2010. Currently, she is the scientific advisor for the Gulf of Catalina Gray Whale Preservation and Education Foundation, a nonprofit organization that educates children about the Gray Whale while engaging them in research. Causey is also director and founder of the Coastal Dolphins of Orange County (CDOC) Project and a lecturer at CSU Fullerton. On the weekends, you will find her working as a naturalist on whale watching adventures. DP

PARK AT THE PARK, WALK WITH THE WHALES Doheny State Beach offers ample $8 all-day parking, whale sightings guaranteed When it comes to great adventures, sometimes getting there is a big part of the fun. And this year’s Festival of Whales is no exception. Doheny State Beach has not only taken some of the stress out of parking but also added a fun way to begin your festival adventure—the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association Whale Walk, where whale sightings are guaranteed. DSBIA volunteers began to return life-sized paintings of whales to the walkways along Doheny Beach in January. They started with three—a California gray whale, an orca and a humpback—and will be adding more species of whales and dolphins in the coming months. The Whale Walk was a longstanding tradition at the park, absent for the past six years since being paved over during walkway maintenance. Now children once again will be delighted by seeing how they “measure up” to the behemoth marine mammals and 10

giving their parents a nice photo op upon arrival to the festival. The Doheny parking lot—enter at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Park Lantern—is offering all-day parking for only $8. Most Harbor lots are four-hour maximum and are monitored by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Not only is this a whale of a deal, it’s also a great way to avoid the stress of having to continually watch the clock while discovering everything the festival has to offer. And free shuttle pick-ups to and from events and attractions are scheduled at 15-minute intervals. So start your visit off right—park at the park, walk with the whales, ride the free shuttle and enjoy a worry-free day at the festival. For more information about the Whale Walk and the DSBIA—including how to become a volunteer—visit www. dohenystatebeach.org. DP —Andrea Swayne

Volunteer K.C. Kinnings puts the finishing touches on the new Whale Walk’s orca. Photo courtesy of Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association

www.festivalofwhales.com

WHALE WATCHING ADVENTURES Dana Wharf Whale Watching

The originator of whale watching in Orange County, Dana Wharf, has hosted excursions at sea since 1971. Take an adventure cruise to see the California gray whales in their natural environment. Trips offer fun for all ages and sightings of whales or dolphins are guaranteed or come back again and ride free. Boats depart every hour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. during festival weekends. Each trip runs for approximately two hours. Back by popular demand, the Whale of a Deal returns with $15 seats on every 8 a.m. weekend departure. For other departure times, adults are $45, seniors and military $35, children 3-12 years $25 and free under 2. Two-hour whale watching excursions are available following the Marine Mammal Lectures both weekends at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. A variety of guest marine biologists will present recent findings on local whales, dolphins and other marine mammals aboard their 63-foot, state-of-the-art OCean Adventures catamaran, featuring an incredibly spacious viewing deck and full-service deli-style gallery. Prior to the 11:30 a.m. departure, there will be a special lecture session from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and a continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s will be included with all 11:30 a.m. reservations. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for children 3-12 years and free for children under 2. (No senior rate) For reservations call 800.979.3370 or 800.590.9994 or visit www.danawharf.com. Use promo code FOW13 to save $8 per adult fare, not valid on 8 a.m. special.

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari

The most unique whale watch in the world lets visitors get eye-to-eye with wild dolphins and whales—without getting wet—in two exclusive underwater viewing pods on board a high-speed, high-tech, sailing catamaran. The boat carries only 49 passengers so trips are never crowded. See and hear below the surface with an underwater camera and hydrophone while an experienced marine naturalist narrates how the animals live. Trips are often narrated by Capt. Dave Anderson himself, whose award winning film on wild dolphins and whales has drawn people from all over the world to Dana Point. The fronts of the boats are low to the water to get you up close and personal with the animals. And the onboard whale and dolphin micro-museum is fun and educational. Trips are broadcast live on www.whalewatchingtv. com, so you can wave to family and friends watching online from home. And one of the best features, Mrs. Captain Dave’s triple fudge brownies are served complimentary on every safari. Mention this ad for a 10 percent discount. Good during Festival of Whales only. Call 949.488.2828 or visit www.dolphinsafari.com for more information and reservations.

Ocean Institute Marine Mammal Cruises and Onboard Lab

More than just a whale watch, this cruise introduces participants to whales and many other marine animals us-

ing state-of-the-art equipment including satellites, plankton nets, sediment samplers and video microscopes. Experience these magnificent animals and learn about feeding strategies, migration and behavior patterns. Cruise times are 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on festival weekends. Member pricing is $22 for adults and $19 for children 4-12 years old. Nonmember is $35 for adults and $22 for children 4-12. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the cruise ticket purchase. For more information, call 949.496.2274 or go to www.ocean-institute.org.

Headlands Conservation Park

Interested in catching a glimpse of these majestic leviathans from land? Be sure to visit the Headlands Conservation Park and Interpretive Center. Situated high atop the 200-foot cliffs on the headlands, the park trails and scenic overlooks offer a great vantage point for viewing passing whales. The three-mile trail system is open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset and the Interpretive Center hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Nature Interpretive Center is located adjacent to the Headlands Conservation Park, at the end of Green Lantern. Limited free parking available. From Dana Point Harbor visitors may take a free shuttle to the Ocean Institute and then proceed up Cove Road to the park. It’s a good work out for those looking for a little adventure and some spectacular views. For more information, log on to www.danapoint.org and click on the “visitors” button then on “nature interpretive center.” DP

This photo shows a gray whale “spy hopping’ to have a look at whale watchers aboard the Dana Wharf Vessel Dana Pride. Photo by Christina de la Fuente for www.danawharf.com

www.festivalofwhales.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

SC S a n C le m e n te

THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

thursday

THE DESERT GARDEN: GARY LYONS 7 p.m. Lecture with Gary Lyons, curator of the Desert Garden at the Huntington Library, speaking on desert gardens and flowering succulents at Casa Romantica. $10. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

SC CHAMBER INSTALLATION AND AWARDS 6 p.m. The SC Chamber holds its annual meeting of members, board of director’s installation and award ceremony at the Bella Collina Golf & Country Club. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com. CHERYL SILVERSTEIN 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

friday

HART AND SOUL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. The group plays live at Adele’s every 4th Friday. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www. adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.

OCEAN INSTITUTE JAZZ FESTIVAL 6:30 p.m. Opening night of the Ocean Institute’s Jazz Festival. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.oceaninstitute.org, www.oijazzfestival.com. CISMONTANE BREWERY BEER TASTING 5 p.m.9 p.m. Special local craft beer tasting event at SC Wine Company. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com SOCSA’S OLDIES NIGHT: SURFERS’ CHOICE 7 p.m. Concert with hits by the Beach Boys and other surf rock songs at Dana Hills High School. $12-$25. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org. THE ULTIMATE STONES 8 p.m. Rolling Stones tribute at The Coach House. $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

AT THE MOVIES: ‘SAFE HAVEN’ SUSPENSEFUL BUT SACCHARINE Besides the setting of the Carolinas, there’s always a certain tragic theme in between the romance of Nicholas Sparks’ books and film adaptations. In A Walk to Remember (2002), it was leukemia; in The Notebook (2004), it was Alzheimer’s; in Dear John (2010), it was the Iraq War. In this February’s Safe Haven, the tragedy is a bit less depressing and more suspenseful (a first for an author whose stories usually rely on angst and drama for effect). Katie (Julianne Hough) is on the run from a cop (David Lyons) who is convinced she’s behind a murder. She makes her way to a small North Carolina town. There she meets and befriends a shop owner named Alex (Josh Duhamel) and his kids (Noah Lomax and Mimi Kirkland). Right when Katie and Alex begin to have feelings for Julianne Hough and Josh Duhamel in Safe Haven. each other, the policeman discovers where she is. Cobie Smulders co-stars in di© 2012 Relativity Media. All Rights Reserved. rector Lasse Hallström’s second Sparks adaptation (he also directed Dear John). While previous films like John and The Notebook paired up future movie stars like Ryan Gosling with Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum with Amanda Seyfried, Safe Haven features two leads that lack the star appeal and chemistry to carry the film. Couple that with a slow first act and an ending that is the definition of saccharine and Safe Haven seems a step below its predecessors. —Megan Bianco

saturday

WILDFLOWER WALK 8 a.m.-11 a.m. Wildflower expert Bob Allen leads an exploration at The Reserve/ Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. $5-$10. Call for info, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

CHRIS CRAM 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD 9 a.m. Dockside presentation and art lesson via video with Wyland at Dana Wharf. Cost $25-$45. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. THE BAYOU BROTHERS 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com. FRUIT TREE CARE WORKSHOP 11 a.m. Learn about fruit tree care and culture at The Ecology Center. $10 members, $15 non-members. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

WIN FREE TICKETS! The first person to email us with SC TIMES Free Concert Tix in the subject line will receive a free pair of tickets from The Coach House to see Marcus Foster on Wednesday, Feb. 27. Include your name and phone number. EMAIL: tickets@sanclementetimes.com

sunday

PAWS ON THE RED CARPET OSCAR PARTY 4 p.m. Pet Project Foundation hosts an Oscar viewing party with auctions, dinner and more at The Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa to benefit the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter. Tickets $150 each. 25135 Park Lantern Dana Point, 949.595.8899, www.petprojectfoundation.org.

RABBI BLUE 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. FLOCK OF 80’S 8 p.m. Live music at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com. Page 16

KIDS PET PARADE 9 a.m. The Fiesta Association’s annual event where children 5-12 can show off their favorite animals in a contest with various categories and prizes at Zoomars Petting Zoo. Entry fee $3. 31791 Los Rios St., 949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

monday

COOKING CLASS: DINNER WITH FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Cooking class with Chef Caroline Cazaumayou at Antoine’s Café. Cost $50 each; includes recipes, dinner and a glass of wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

tuesday

RUBEN GONZALEZ 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www. thecellarsite.com.

wednesday

CASE STUDIES ART EXHIBIT 12 p.m.- 4 p.m. The Saddleback College Art Gallery presents a new art exhibit featuring work of talented artists from New York City. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

WINE DINNER AT VINE 7 p.m. Four-course food and wine pairing at Vine. Reservations recommended. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2791, www.vinesanclemente.com. MIKE HAMILTON 7 p.m. Live music at The Ribjoint. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500, www.ribjointdanapoint.com. MICROBREWS BY THE MISSION 4 p.m.-8 p.m. A 14-venue “pub crawl” featuring seasonal micro/craft brews for $4, live music, food/appetizers and more in downtown San Juan Capistrano the last Wednesday of the month. Camino Capistrano and Ortega Highway, 949.493.4700, www.facebook.com/microbrewsbythemission. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com www.sanclementetimes.com

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY GLASS SCRATCH REMOVAL

AIR CONDITIONING Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

949.215.2323

GRAPHIC DESIGN

APPLIANCES

Images/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 2927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS

HAIR SALONS

Kreative Hair Design ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 173 Avenida Serra 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com

949.498.6245

San Clemente Art Association 949.492.7175 100 N. Calle Seville, www.scartgallery.com

BEAUTY SUPPLY

Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, Del Mar Beauty Supply 949.492.8180 www.southcoastfurniture.com 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com

949.492.5589

INSURANCE

BOOKS

Complete Business Insurance 949.943.9081 Mathom House Books 949.361.1633 647 Camino de los Mares Ste. 108, 83 Via Pico Plaza, www.mathomhousebooks.com www.HelpYouInsurance.com Village Book Exchange 949.492.1114 GIS/Galvez Insurance Services, Inc - 949.240.7445 99 Avenida Serra License # OE75910. 940 Calle Negocio, Ste. 170, www.gisgalvezinsurance.net

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Christiansen Chiropractic 903 Calle Amancer, Ste. 230, www.christiansenchiro.com

949.276.2956

949.361.9656

License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

MATTRESSES

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 949.369.1052 99 Avenida Del Mar, www.schmidschocolate.com

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

LANDSCAPING Costa Verde Landscape

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

949.492.5589

MOLD REMOVAL

949.350.4692 949.362.5388 Kevin Jarvis Restoration -24/7 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

MORTGAGES

San Clemente Computer & Network Services 949.533.9209 daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Brian Wiechman, V.I.P. Independent Mortgage Inc. www.vipmtginc.com/team/brianwiechman CONCRETE Costa Verde Landscape License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27), www.costaverdelandscaping.com

949.361.9656

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com

DENTISTS

MUSIC LESSONS

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 949.493.9311 Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, www.danmans.com www.drericjohnson.com Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com ELECTRICAL Arcadia Electric www.arcadiaelectric.com

949.361.1045

ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST Lange & Minnott 1201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 203

949.492.3459

FILM AND VIDEO PRODUCTION Red Point Digital www.redpointdigital.com

801.573.2370

FURNITURE South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

949.492.5589

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up

HEATING

ART GALLERIES

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

OFFICE FURNITURE South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

PAINTING KC Painting & Decorating 949.388.6829 3349 Paseo Halcon, www.bringcolorintoyourlife.com

of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@sanclementetimes.com. PHARMACIES Sea View Pharmacy 665 Camino De Los Mares, #101 www.seaviewpharmacy.com

949.496.0123

949.361.0680

SALONS Salon Bamboo 949.361.3348 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, www.salonbamboo.com Salon Bleu 949.366.2060 207 S. El Camino Real, www.scsalonbleu.com Sanctuary Salon & Spa 949.429.5802 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com

SECOND HAND/THRIFT SHOP South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com The Bargain Box 949.492.2800 526 N. El Camino Real, www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org

TERMITES Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION Kohler Tile Contracting

714.768.3077

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

Tutor Toes 949.429.6222 A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 111 W. Avenida Palizada, Ste. 11, www.tutortoes.com 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.atozleakdetection.com WEBSITE DESIGN Bill Metzger Plumbing 949.492.3558 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345 Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com www.chicks-plumbing.com

WINDOW CLEANING

PRESCHOOLS San Clemente Preschool 163 Avenida Victoria, www.sanclementepreschool.com

949.498.1025

Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. 949.215.2323 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Clear Windows 949.485.8793 San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION

PRINTING

Printing OC 949.388.4888 Offshore Construction www.offshoreconstruction.org 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

949.444.6323

PSYCHOLOGISTS Manny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 888.949.5150 300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com

REAL ESTATE Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631 San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.com Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County marciegeorge@cox.net 949.690.5410 McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Properties www.livetalega.com 949.464.3226 “Sandy & Rich” - ReMax www.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236

REMODEL

Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS) 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com

Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com

949.498.6204

TUTORING

PLUMBING

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

PEST CONTROL

Jim Thomas Roofing 162 Calle de Industrias

WATER DAMAGE

PHOTOGRAPHY Memories Of Me Photos www.memoriesofmephotos.com

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

RESTAURANTS Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4

949.366.9386

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7. GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@sanclementetimes.com.

SC BUSINESS DIRECTORY te Sa n Cl em en

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 103 or email mreddick@sanclementetimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com FOR SALE SKATEBOARD/LONGBOARD EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Sector 9 Roxanne $100 (Great Condition); Jet Peanut $15; Jet Revolver $10; Gunmetal Trucks $40; Comet Grease Hammer $110 (Great Condition); Rad Releases 81a $35; Sector 9 Race Forms $35; Abec 11 Free Rides $10; Cult Classics (green) $25; Blue Sector 9 Race Forms (slide) $15. Dr. Dre Beats Studios (red) $200. Call 949.533.9761

GARAGE SALES NEIGHBORHOOD GARAGE SALE Saturday Feb 23rd @ 8AM. 7 w Avenida Junipero San Clemente Times February 21-27 , 2013

OBITUARY

Norma Jean Lohrman Flynn Norma Jean Lohrman Flynn was born January 30, 1917, in Jewel Iowa. She passed away, surrounded by family, on September 17, 2012 in Mission Viejo. During her early years, she traveled with her husband Stanley Flynn, during his army career and lived in Germany, Valley Forge, PA, Ft. Bennington, GA, and Anchorage, AL. After Stan’s army career, they moved to California and lived in Novato, Visalia and retired in San Clemente. Norma will reunite with her husband, Stan, who passed away January 9, 2008 in San Clemente. Norma was a loving mother to her three daughters, Joette Flynn-Goldman (Lewis), Michelle Flynn-Veyna (Arthur), Leslie Flynn Downes Laurente, (Joseph) and loving grandmother Page 19

of Brendan Downes, Elizabeth Downes and Gabriella Laurente. Norma was a lifelong member of PEO and taught Yoga at the YMCA while living in Visalia. Al her time was spent raising her three daughters and later, cooking and entertaining for her children and grandchildren. Norma was a kind, warm, loving and understanding Mom and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her. A memorial is being held Friday, February 22 at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church located at 31641 La Novia Avenue, San Juan Capistrano, CA at 3pm. Condolences may be emailed veynaca@cox.net.

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

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:

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION

S a n C le m e n te

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

Business Beat

BY JIM SHILANDER

News and updates on San Clemente’s business community

NEW DEVELOPMENTS u Bikram Yoga San Clemente, 711 N. El Camino Real, 949.388.9595, www.bikramsc. com Noel Nichols and Rob Gittelman say they’ve both embraced and been embraced by the city with their new yoga studio Bikram Yoga San Clemente, which opened January 1. “We really feel grateful for all the support that we’ve received,” Nichols said. “We feel lucky in terms of how the city’s embraced us.” Bikram yoga is a system that includes 26 specific poses, including two breathing exercises. The classes are conducted for 90 minutes in a 105 degree room at 40 percent humidity, which encourages body cleansing and stretching. Nichols and Gittelman moved to San Clemente from Las Vegas in June, where Nichols had been a Bikram instructor and Gittelman a professional poker player. Gittelman said that Bikram helped him manage a stressful way of life. “Some friends of mine got me into Bikram

four years ago,” Gittelman said. “It was a lifesaver when in came to a high stress, high pressure job.” Gittelman and Nichols said they visited San Clemente two years ago and were surprised not to see a Bikram studio or class in the area. When they decided to come to San Clemente, they worked with the Bikram central office to get the proper credentials and find certified trainers. Nichols and Gittleman, however, have tried to do something beyond just providing access to yoga. “We’re really trying to build a strong Bikram community here,” Nichols said. This included making the social area of the studio larger and locker rooms smaller. More people are hanging out before and after class, she said.

on February 18. Patton began her business in San Clemente two years ago, out of an acupuncture office, then opened her own office last year. The past year, she said, has been a successful one in terms of building a client base to take to her new location. Patton’s business offers a more spiritual take on massage. “You have to take care of the entire body as a unit,” Patton said. “It makes it better than just taking a pill to mask symptoms. Massage sessions at Soul Intention can last one to two hours and include a “bliss package” option with crystal therapy and Reiki, a Japanese stress relief technique that incorporates the laying on of hands and spirituality. “People leave here and they’re on cloud nine,” Patton said.

u The Soul Intention, 121 W. El Portal, Suite 201, 949.231.0021, www.thesoulintention.com Valentina Patton moved her therapeutic massage and Reiki business, The Soul Intention, from Avenida Del Mar to El Portal. Patton began business at the new location

u Surterre Properties has announced that the company will be opening an inhouse property management division on March 1. The division will be lead by property management administrator, Vicky Melin, who has more than 23 years of property

management experience locally. The company says the addition of an allinclusive property management division is a natural extension of its current services. “Our clients continue to request property management services from us because they want Surterre to handle all of their real estate affairs,” said Gary Legrand, President and CEO of Surterre Properties. “We realized that an in-house property management division fits seamlessly with our desire to offer truly comprehensive real estate representation for our clients, and we’re confident that under the leadership of Vicky Melin, Surterre Property Management will become the firm of choice for local property investors.” Surterre Property Management will provide a wide range of property management services, from tenant screening, maintenance and rent collection, to bill pay, property inspection, and advertising and marketing. To learn more about Surterre Property Management, please call 855.557.6600 or visit www.surterrepropertymanagement. com. SC

SC Fifth Grader Wins Song Contest By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

an Clemente 10-year-old Delaney Miller may be on her way to a career in music. Miller, a fifth grader at Concordia Elementary School, won a district wide and then countywide, arts contest as part of the “Reflections” arts recognition program, sponsored by the California State Parent Teacher Association. Miller has been involved with the program, which encourages participation in the arts, since Kindergarten. Though San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

she doesn’t have formal musical training, Miller wrote and sang her own song, “Making Me Happy,” and entered it into this year’s contest in October. “I was surprised, I didn’t think I was going to win,” Delaney said. Her mother, Nicole, said her daughter has been writing songs for a long time, and took particular interest in this year’s Reflections theme, “Magic of the Moment.” After winning the contest in the Capistrano Unified School District, Miller was entered in a countywide competition to be judged against all the other district win-

ners. Nicole said they weren’t necessarily anticipating victory for the county contest. “We only showed up for the last 10 minutes of the meeting (in Costa Mesa),” she said. Delaney said when she heard her name called she was very much surprised. “I was almost passing out,” Delaney said. “I just heard ‘Congratulations, you’ve won for the entire county.’” Miller now advances on to the statewide competition in Sacramento. Luckily, Nicole said, the family will be notified in advance if Miller places, so they won’t have to make the drive up for nothing.

Page 20

Delaney Miller has won both the Capistrano Unified School District and Orange County “Reflections” arts competition with her song “Making Me Happy.” Photo by Jim Shilander

Delaney said she’s hoping to make a career in music. She’d like to attend the Orange County School for the Arts in Santa Ana, but still has at least a year before she would need to audition for a spot. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach By Shelley Murphy

Overcoming Fears of Classes Making the decision to become a nontraditional student In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC 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 SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

fter an exhausting and emotional 2012 spent solely on my son’s college essays, exams and applications you’d think college courses would be the last thing on my mind as LIFE’S A BEACH a new year begins. By Shelley Murphy But, with one less bird in the nest and a bit of free time, I considered taking a class at a community college. Lately, it seems like researchers are repeatedly reminding me that my cognitive functioning is likely declining with each candle added to my birthday cake. It

makes sense. I exercise my body. I should exercise my mind too. Since I have no interest in mastering sudoku, I decided to register for an enrichment course to help keep my mind from turning to mush. But something held me back. During the winter recess, my son’s college dorm closed and finally forced him home for a few weeks. One evening he had a group of friends over—all of them in their first semester of college. I couldn’t help but overhear the animated conversation as they spoke over each other to share stories about their new college careers at their respective Ivy League schools, out of state universities, local state and community colleges. Soon, their voices lowered, and as their laughter grew louder, I quickly realized some stories I’m better off not knowing. That night, however, I did hear a comment that stuck with me. One student talked about his experiences at Saddleback College and how different the campus and classes felt as compared to high school. He seemed happy at his new school, but complained about a couple of classes. His chief complaint being he would walk into a class, sit

down, and everything seemed “normal,” but then he’d “turn around and see some 50-year-old sitting behind” him. I could relate on a couple levels. I remember back in the early 90s, unhappy with my dull administrative day job, I got a brilliant idea to become a travel agent and took evening classes at Saddleback to earn my Travel Agency Operation certificate, which I still have. In my defense, the ability of travelers to book their own trips using the internet hadn’t hit yet. I also hadn’t predicted that before long I’d be pregnant with my first-born and soon be a stay-at-home mom, not a world traveler. Anyway, I remember sitting in a class and feeling the same way about an older lady who sat beside me. She always had her hand up, always drove the curve up and never hushed up. According to the U.S. Department of Education, non-traditional student enrollment (ages 25-69) is the fastest growing educational demographic. The Association for Nontraditional Students in Higher Education reports that students over age 25 make up 47 percent of the new and returning student popula-

tion on many of today’s college campuses. At Saddleback, females account for 60 percent of the population with 21 percent of them being over the hill—or over the age of 50. Despite supportive demographic statistics, I chose to compromise and register for an online class. I found an evening course described as a hybrid—we would meet on campus 25 percent of the time and the other 75 percent would be taught online. Perfect, I thought, I’ll probably show up for the first class, and then the midterm and final. So far we are four classes into the semester and we have met in the classroom twice—luckily it is not a math class. I like my class and am relieved to report that while I’m not the youngest, I am not the oldest either. I haven’t told my son, or his friend, about my return to the classroom and I think I’ll keep it that way. There are some things we college kids should keep to ourselves. Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband and two sons for the past 14 years. She’s a freelance writer and contributor to the SC Times since 2006. SC

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SC S a n C le m e n te

SC TIMES SPORTS & OUTDOORS IS PRESENTED BY:

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

NSSL SEASON UNDERWAY The National Scholastic Skateboarding League had a busy month of February, with two competitions already in the books over the span of two weeks. On February 9 at the Volcom Outdoor Skatepark in Costa Mesa, Shorecliffs Middle School was the top San Clemente qualifier and went on to finish second overall. Sam Phegley, skating as an individual, finished third in the street competition. Phegley’s teammate Ryan Martin placed third overall in the bowl competition. The Volcom Outdoor Skatepark

Griffin Crane and the San Clemente skate team placed second at Volcom Outdoor on February 15. Courtesy photo

played host to the NSSL again on February 15 and this time, it was the riders for Bernice Ayer Middle School that took home the hardware. As a team, Bernice Ayer placed first overall. Mateo Rael won the street competition and Chance Power placed first in

the bowl. Bernice Ayer had five different riders make it to the finals. The San Clemente High School skate team was also in action at Volcom on February 15 and finished second overall as a team. Iain Dickie had a strong performance and placed second in street. Four of the San Clemente High riders made it to the finals. All three San Clemente based teams will compete at the NSSL’s next event at Volcom on March 8. —Steve Breazeale

Q&A With Cassie Harberts, USC Standout and SC Alum By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times

he USC women’s basketball team lost several senior starters to graduation, which has left a leadership vacancy that San Clemente alum Cassie Harberts has been more than willing to fill. After seeing considerable playing time last season, Harberts, now a junior, has stepped into the versatile role of scorer, playmaker and inside presence for the Women of Troy. Harberts has been the team’s leading scorer 18 times and it’s leading rebounder 15 times in 26 games played. The team is in the midst of an 8-18 season (5-10 Pac-12),

San Clemente High alum Cassie Harbert (11) has led the USC women’s basketball team in scoring and rebounding in 17 different games this season. Photo by Patrick Gee/USC Sports Information

San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

which is a drop-off from their 19-win performance in 20112012. We caught up with Harberts to ask her about the state of USC women’s basketball, her ascension into offensive centerpiece and her outlook on the future. San Clemente Times: The team seems to be having a down year. What were the teams own preseason expectations? Cassie Harberts: Coming into the season, one goal was to get into the NCAA Tournament…It has been a rough season but I think it has to do with strength of schedule early on. We played a lot of top-25 teams…We’ve also been hindered by some injuries. SCT: You have been leading the team in scoring and rebounding on a nightly basis. What’s been the biggest difference in your game from last season to this one? Harberts: I think being on this team right now I’m really the only big inside presence so a lot of my game has developed in back to the basket moves and being that inside presence. I also recently started to shoot 3-pointers more. SCT: Is that outside shooting role something you came in to USC with? Or has it been a point of emphasis between you and your coaches for this season? Harberts: I think coming in as a freshman my true position was a (forward). I had to take over the (center) position last year because we were kind of undersized the entire season. I thought this year coming in we’d have another center, but we don’t. Maybe next year. But my game has developed to being a more versatile post player now. I want to gain more guard skills going into next year. SCT: USC has only one senior on the roster and three juniors, including yourself. You’re kind of the “elder statesman” of this team now. Have you felt the need to step up and lead? Harberts: I think this year I’ve really tried to step into that role and be more vocal and lead by example. Last year we had three senior captains…So I needed to step up and be a leader for this team. SCT: What should we expect out of this USC team down the stretch? Harberts: We have UCLA this week (February 19 and February 24) and I think it can be a really good week for us. We can step up and show people what they’re not expecting us to do. We are also ready for the Pac-12 Tournament (March 7). Winning the Pac-12 (Tournament) will give us a straight shot into the NCAA tournament. Right now anything is possible. SC Page 22

San Clemente’s Carla McAlister made history by breaking the womens course record at the Surf City USA Marathon on February 3. Courtesy photo

SC’S CARLA MCALISTER BREAKS MARATHON RECORD AT SURF CITY

an Clemente resident Carla McAlister repeated as the womens champion in the 17th annual Surf City USA Marathon, held in Huntington Beach, on February 3. She might have won one year ago, but her second title carries a little more history with it. McAlister’s winning time of 2:56:28 bested the old marathon record, set in 2006, of 2:57:19. The 39-year-old McAlister now holds the top womens Surf City Marathon time. McAlister beat her next closest competitor by over 10 minutes. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS have to make sure we play safe with it.” The two losses on the Tritons resume were against teams with speed, like Carlsbad and El Toro, and Pronier is banking on his backline defense to match Harvard-Westlake’s quick forwards. The veteran coach said that he will make minor adjustments to the Tritons current game plan but nothing major is in the cards. “We’re going to continue with the same starting lineup we’ve had but there are some defenders that are a little quicker (on the bench) and who knows, they may get a chance,” Pronier said. Check back to www.sanclementetimes. com for an update on the boys soccer team’s second round matchup.

Triton Report By Steve Breazeale

EAGLE’S GOLDEN GOAL IN OT STUNS TRITONS In the 93rd minute of a long back and forth battle between the San Clemente and Santa Margarita girls soccer teams, Eagles junior Taylor Klawunder ended the match in the blink of an eye. Klawunder, shooting from well beyond 15 yards out, sent a ball that found the Tritons crossbar and bounced in to give the Eagles a 1-0 overtime win over San Clemente in the second round of the CIFSS Division 1 Championships on February 19. The game might have lasted 93 minutes, but the Eagles (10-5-4, 5-1-2 league) almost took the lead in the first 60 seconds. Santa Margarita’s junior forward Heather Walleigh found a ball in the Tritons box and fired a point blank shot, but the ball was deflected by the Tritons (10-7-6, 2-3-3) junior goalie Audrey Block. Block would work to keep the Tritons alive in the first half and made another confident save in the 29th minute after an Eagles shot on goal off a set piece skipped in front of her. Block slid into position and smothered the shot for what would be her fourth and final save in the first half. The Eagles held a slight edge over the Tritons in terms of scoring chances in the first half but the Tritons came out attacking in the second. Junior Ally Lynn nearly broke through on a close range shot in the 48th minute and the ensuing Eagles deflection led to a Tritons corner kick. San Clemente junior Nikki Faris initiated a nice give and go set-play off the corner and narrowly missed on a streaking shot attempt from 10 yards out. San Clemente went on to outshoot the Eagles 8-1 in the second half. The Tritons were able to control the ball in their offensive third of the field for most of the overtime periods, but Klawunder’s long range bomb found the back of the net and kept the visiting teams’ season alive for one more game. TRITONS HISTORIC RUN ENDS IN LONG BEACH Playing on the road against Millikan of Long Beach the San Clemente boys basketball team suffered an 82-72 loss that ended their historic season. After winning the team’s first league title since 1975, the Tritons were bounced from the second round of the CIF-SS Division 1A Championships on February 19 due to costly turnovers and an opposing style that mimicked their own. Going into the game, Tritons (18-11, San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

Senior forward Gage Zerboni scored a hat trick and tallied an assist in the Tritons 4-0 first round win over Leuzinger in the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships on February 15. Courtesy photo

7-1) head coach Marc Popovich said that Millikan was a team without a bona fide post up threat that liked to spread the floor and run an up-tempo offense. The description Popovich gave could have been a blueprint for his own squad. The Rams (14-14, 8-4) got out to a hot start, highlighted by a 16-3 run in the second quarter that allowed the home team to take a 35-27 lead into halftime. The Rams forced multiple Tritons turnovers and converted them into transition buckets. The Tritons battled their way back to within three points in the third quarter but Millikan was able to pull away and secure a 55-45 lead heading into the fourth. The ten point advantage would end up being the difference between the two teams when the final whistle sounded. For a full recap of the Tritons first round win over Capistrano Valley on February 15, visit www.sanclementetimes. com. TRITONS TRAVEL IN SECOND ROUND, GAGE ZERBONI ATHLETE OF THE WEEK The San Clemente boys soccer team got off to a blistering start on their march through the CIF-SS Division 1 Champion-

ships with a 4-0 win over visiting Leuzinger in the first round on February 15. Senior forward Gage Zerboni had arguably one of his most productive games of the season, scoring three goals and tallying an assist in the win, and is our Athlete of the Week. It was the UCLA commit’s second hat trick of the year. Tritons Head coach Mike Pronier also gave credit to senior midfielder Oscar Vasquez for his role in the win over Leuzinger. The Triton coaching staff threw Vasquez at Leuzinger’s top forwards and were happy with his defensive efforts in the shutout. The No. 1 seeded Tritons were set to play against Harvard-Westlake in the second round on the road on February 20. Results were not available at press time. Before his team left for Studio City, Pronier discussed how Harvard-Westlake could pose some problems for San Clemente. On paper, the Wolverines have the same build as teams that have given the Tritons trouble in the past. “With the amount of speed they have up top we are going to have to do some things to make sure that doesn’t hurt us,” Pronier said. “The losses we’ve had this year were against speed and teams with bigger guys. We can handle it but we

Page 24

TRITONS GIRLS HOOPS ADVANCES TO SECOND ROUND A strong defensive effort pushed the San Clemente girls basketball team past visiting Diamond Bar, 47-22, in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1AA Championships on February 16. The team was set to play against Santiago-Corona on the road in the second round on February 20. Results were not available at press time. Tritons senior Alexa Johnson played a big part in the Tritons first round success after pouring in 10 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. As a team, the Tritons took care of the glass and secured 30 total rebounds. Junior Jessica Degree had a productive night by recording seven rebounds, scoring six points and swiping four steals. Check back to www.sanclementetimes. com for an update on the Tritons second round matchup. TRITONS LOSE IN SHOOTOUT IN SECOND ROUND The San Clemente girls water polo team got past Long Beach Poly 7-6 in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 2 Championships on February 12, but lost in an 18-13 shootout to Santa Margarita in the second round on February 14. The Tritons got out to an early 3-1 lead in the first quarter in the game against Long Beach Poly and held on for the win despite their opponents matching them point for point in the third and fourth. San Clemente’s Amber McCutcheon led the team with six goals in the loss to Santa Margarita. The Eagles’ Haley Wan led all scorers with eight goals in the contest. SEVEN TRITONS WRESTLERS ADVANCE TO MASTERS A strong performance at the CIF Individual tournament on February 16 saw seven Tritons wrestlers advance to the CIF-SS Masters Meet, which will be held at Temecula Valley February 22 through February 23. Christian Orpineda, Jacob Sandoval, Tim Parten, John Castellini, Mike Marshall, Ash Ryan and Austin Aceves will all represent the Tritons over the weekend. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SURF

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

GROM OF THE WEEK Bethany Zelasko Age: 13, Shorecliffs Middle School

Bethany Zelasko of Dana Point can be found with a smile on her face nearly every day at her home break, Salt Creek. Even the recent cold weather did not dampen her desire to start her day with a practice session. On one of this winter’s coldest mornings—34 degrees—Bethany made one of her warmest surf memories. In chilly 55-degree water, she got barreled and the thrill of the moment erased every thought of discomfort, she said. Bethany is looking forward to trying out for the Dana Hills High School surf team in a few years and hoping to qualify for the Surfing America Prime Series. “I see the high school team out there every Tuesday at Salt Creek and can’t wait to have the chance to be a part of it,” Bethany said. Until then, she will continue working on her competition surfing skills in the SSS and WSA—where she is ranked No. 11 and No. Bethany Zelasko. Courtesy photo 10 respectively—and as a member of the Soul Surf Team. Bethany is an ‘A’ and ‘B’ student in the GATE program and her favorite class is video production. Faith is an important part of her life. She has wanted to become a missionary since the age of four and is now hoping to combine that desire with a future pro surfing career. “I’ve always liked being in the ocean and think surfing is going to be my thing for life,” she said. “I’ve also always been a Bible scholar and really feel that it’s my calling to use surfing as a missionary to spread the gospel.”—Andrea Swayne

Sharing Stories from the Surf

SURF RESULTS

Surfing Heritage Foundation board member Denny Michael shares his new video for Surfing Heritage TV, encourages others to share theirs By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

enny Michael, like nearly every surfer, has many family memories of the sport that is a lifestyle for enthusiasts who are all connected by the waves to the larger global “surfing community.” As a member of the board of directors at the Surfing Heritage Foundation in San Clemente he has come up with a way for everyone to share their own surfing stories and histories online—Surfing Heritage TV. Surfing Heritage TV is a YouTube-based channel hosting a collection of short films and video segments, created to extend the foundation’s ability to preserve and promote surfing heritage for the education and entertainment of current and future generations. Heading up the foundation’s Technology Committee—the group responsible for creating Surfing Heritage TV—inspired Michael to record and share one of his family stories as part of the project. His short subject film, The Big Pink Hobie, tells the story of an “Uncle Buck” model Hobie longboard shaped by the late Terry Martin. The board made its rounds including being ridden by many local amateurs and professionals and even by Christian Wach during one of his wins at the Noosa Heads Australia pro longboard event a few years ago before ending up in Michael’s family quiver. “Looking back just a few years at the Doheny Boneyard, surfers like Wach, Tyler Warren, Bucky Barry, Alex Knost, Lindsay Stienreide and my son Blake Michael were growing up surfing there. Their families were filming them, not realizing that these kids would eventually become pretty famous professional surfers,” Michael said. “We want to include San Clemente Times February 21–27, 2013

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Denny Michael of the Surfing Heritage Foundation stands with the subject of his new Surfing Heritage TV video The Big Pink Hobie at Trestles. Photo by Linda Michael

these videos in our archive. We’re basically weaving together the history of surfing, through a combination of personal videos.” Michael said his video is probably overproduced and pointed out that the SHF will even take “little pieces of surf magic shot via cell phone, with no production, added music or editing necessary.” “Sometimes unadorned clips stand on their own by merely capturing a significant moment in time,” he said. Along with video from the public, the foundation will also utilize the talents of video production students at Saddleback College to film, edit and archive future SHF programs and events. To participate, upload a video to YouTube then log on to www.surfingheritage. org, go to the “Exhibits” section of the home page and click on “SHF TV” and follow a few simple instructions. The channel can be found online

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 56-57 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 2-6’ Poor Catalina: 15’+ Fair Immediate: Easing west-northwest swell on Thursday for mainly waist-chest-shoulder high waves (3-4’). Friday drops into the 1-3’. Long Range Outlook: Saturday will see a continuation of minimal west-northwest swell, then another west-northwest pulse will move in on Sunday. Check out Surfline for all the details!

WSA Championship Series, Event No. 7, February 16-17, Huntington Beach, Pier Local finishers only. Key: SC=San Clemente, DP=Dana Point, CB=Capistrano Beach, SJC=San Juan Capistrano. MICRO GROM BOYS/GIRLS U9: 1. Bane Corbett, SC; 2. Brayden Burch, SC; 5. Logan Crossan, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Jett Schilling, SC; 2. Nicholas Coli, SC; 4. Taj Lindblad, SC; 5. Patrick O’Connor, SJC. BOYS U12: 3. Kade Matson, SC; 5. Jett Schilling, SC. BOYS U14: 2. Kade Matson, SC; 4. Nathan Carabba, SC; 5. Shane Hardy, DP. BOYS U16: 6. Conner Dand, SC. BOYS U18: 2. Kevin Schulz, SC. GIRLS U12: 5. Samantha Sibley, SC. GIRLS U14: 3. Tera Richardson, CB; 5. Alexxa Elseewi, SC. GIRLS U16: 3. Alexxa Elseewi, SC; 6. Kirra Connolly, SC. GIRLS U18: 2. Malia Osterkamp, SC. JR. LB U18: 4. Jack Benjamin, SJC. GIRLS LB U14: 1. Malia Mauch, SC; 2. Samantha Sibley, SC; 3. Lexi Morgan, SC. GIRLS LB U18: 1. Rachael Tilly, CB; 2. Emmy Lombard, SC; 3. Teresa O’Connor, SJC; 4. Lulu Erkeneff, DP. MASTERS 30-39: 4. Jimmy Bray, SC. LEGENDS 50+: 4. Dale Baker, SC. OPEN MEN: 1. Kevin Schulz, SC; 2. Cody Canzoneri, SC. OPEN WOMEN: 2. Lulu Erkeneff, DP. OPEN MEN LB: 3. Cody Canzoneri, SC; 6. Jack Benjamin, SJC. OPEN WOMEN LB : 1. Tory Gilkerson, SC; 4. Kyla Kelley, CB; 5. Lulu Erkeneff, DP; 6. Malia Mauch, SC. NSSA Southwest Explorer, Event No. 8, February 9, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty MENEHUNE: 3. Kade Matson, SC; 4. Noah Hohenester, SC. SUPER GROMS: 1. Kade Matson, SC; 2. Jett Schilling, SC; 6. Kai McPhillips, SC. WOMEN: 2. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 6. Alexxa Elseewi, SC. GIRLS: 1. Malia Osterkamp, SC. SENIORS: 2. Eric Crane, SC. DUKE: 4. Peter Townend, SC. For full results, see www.sanclementetimes. com.

UPCOMING EVENTS directly at www.youtube.com/shfsurf and The Big Pink Hobie, can also be viewed at www.sanclementetimes.com. SC

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February 23-24: NSSA Southwest Open, Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek March 2-3: NSSA Southwest Open, Event No. 9, Ventura, C Street www.sanclementetimes.com