June 22, 2018

LO C A L

N EWS

June 22-28, 2018

YO U

C A N

U S E

Look For Fun and Exciting Activities in the Bi-Annual Go.See.Do. SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 11, ISSUE 25

‘Not as Reported’

A Capo Beach man admits to falsely reporting stabbing at Doheny, OCSD confirms; Dana Point left to wonder what happened E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 3

www.danapointtimes.com

On June 16, California State Parks stated a Capistrano Beach resident reported being stabbed in Dana Point after a social media frenzy, but OCSD recently revealed that no such incident occurred. Photo: Daniel Ritz

City Attorney Clarifies Districting Timeline, Denounces Claims of Malpractice EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Doheny Surf & Art Festival Returns to Dana Point DP LIVING/PAGE 22

Lewis, Muller to Head CIP Subcommittee EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

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member to function.

To the amusement of other Council Members and the public in Council Chambers, Council member Wyatt nominated Council member Muller, to which Muller agreed.

City Manager Mark Denny said that the subcommittee will be organized to meet sometime this summer after further CIP preparation from Dana Point Public Works. —DR

should know this week

OCSD Announces Alleged Stabbing a Hoax THE LATEST: During the Dana Point City Council meeting on June 20, Lt. Margie Sheehan made a statement saying that Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) was no longer investigating an alleged stabbing that occurred within Doheny State Beach. Those claims have been confirmed as unfounded.

Late in the day on June 19, OCSD released a statement that the incident had not occurred as reported, and the incident would be turned over to the Orange County District Attorney’s office to be filed as a false police report. Following the alleged incident on June 16, Sheehan said she responded to inquiries from concerned citizens, encouraging them to withhold from distributing potentially incomplete information. However, Sheehan was visibly discouraged at the City Council meeting that citizens did not adhere to her recommendation.

“When we (OCSD) hold information, it is because we are gathering information,” Sheehan said, explaining the social, emotional and possible financial impacts of incomplete or inaccurate information being relayed on local social media channels.

Sheehan added that in a spin-off to the false information surrounding the Doheny stabbing, it was alleged that a major resort in Dana Point suffered from what she described as a “major act of violence. California State Parks Peace Officers had been investigating the alleged stabbing.

Rich Haydon, the State Parks Superintendent who oversees Doheny State Beach, confirmed to the Dana Point Times that Capistrano Beach resident Ron Reed and his wife Vickie Pullam-Reed reported visiting Doheny State Beach where they said Reed encountered an unidentified male.

Not long after, Haydon said Reed walked to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel across from the beach where he was treated by first responders for a minor puncture wound and was taken to Mission Hospital for additional evaluations. Haydon confirmed that Reed was treated and released that same day. Haydon said that PullamReed reported a “generic” description of the assailant after the alleged attack.

WHAT’S NEXT: On the morning of June 20, Reed’s 17-year-old daughter released a video on Facebook voicing her apologies for her father’s actions.

Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

City Attorney Deflates Accusations of Misuse of Districting Timeline Council member Joe Muller (pictured) will sit on a subcommittee alongside Council member Debra Lewis. The subcommittee will review and prioritize a capital improvement program to present to Dana Point. Photo: Daniel Ritz

amendments to fees and subsidies can be made at a later date. New fees and subsidy policies will begin Oct. 1. An outline of new fees and subsidies, including a future calendar, can be seen on www.danapointtimes.com. —DR

This is an ongoing story and will be updated as more information becomes available on www.danapointtimes.com. —DR

District Attorney Announces S.L.I.P. Task Force THE LATEST: Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas announced the start of a new county task force, Sober Living Home Investigation and Prosecution (SLIP), during the June 19 City Council meeting.

This task force, which aims to enforce statewide regulations on renegade and unlawful sober living homes and residential treatment facilities, will model the successful Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit (HEAT) that has landed more than 300 felony convictions including eight life sentences.

Council woman Lewis asked Rackauckas if the task force had been effective in any largescale cases to date, to which the district attorney responded saying that his staff has already filed a number of criminal cases where the alleged perpetrators have ceased operation.

WHAT’S NEXT: The hotline is available now for citizens concerned about a sober living home or residential treatment facility near them that can be reached by calling 714.647.3228. —DR

City Council Passes User Fee Study Update THE LATEST: During the June 19 meeting, City Council passed a resolution approving an updated schedule of service fee charges and rescinding resolutions. Council member John Tomlinson said that he liked seeing the fee schedule reflecting previously discussed subsidies adjusted to include standard necessities such as hot water heaters.

WHAT’S NEXT: It was pointed out that

Muller and Lewis Named to CIP Subcommittee THE LATEST: During the City Council meeting on June 19, Council members approved the updated strategic plan and financial policies, a Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and fiscal year 2019 budget adjustments.

As a portion of the agenda item, Council member Lewis encouraged the establishment of a city subcommittee reviewing and prioritizing capital investment for future City Council consideration.

Council member Muller said he questioned what the value of this subcommittee was, and why these reviews couldn’t be done without the structure of a formal subcommittee.

After City Attorney Patrick Munoz made clear that, contrary to Muller’s initial belief, no more than two City Council members could discuss city actions even if not making a decision, Council member Wyatt voiced his opinion that brainstorming is one of the most valuable tools in working through long-term planning.

WHAT’S NEXT: “I think we should have members that do not agree,” Wyatt said.

“The best results will come from the twoends of the ‘teeter-totter.’ We should put together two totally incomparable people.”

As Lewis proposed the committee, Mayor Richard Viczorek went around the dais asking who else would like to be a part of the subcommittee.

After seeing no takers, Viczorek reiterated that the subcommittee, which had been approved 3-2, needed a second

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THE LATEST: During the reading of seemingly routine general municipal election resolution for the Nov. 2018 City Council elections in pre-determined districts 1, 2 and 3, City Attorney Patrick Munoz launched into a lengthy explanation of the city’s adherence to State law districting timeline.

This was provoked by Council member Lewis sourcing the publication of a timeline she claimed showed that Dana Point had been unnecessarily hasty in approving the process to pass a resolution of intent. She stated this proved Dana Point would have been allowed to remain with at-large elections during the 2018 elections season.

“I think it would have behooved us,” Lewis said, “to do additional studies and resident polling.”

Council member Muller asked if the supposed timeline mattered to the Orange County registrar.

To this, Munoz passionately responded that the timeline, as described by Lewis, was entirely legally inaccurate and had no legal effect to the registrar’s office at all.

“Everything Council member Lewis said is false,” Munoz said. “The registrar cared about one thing, there was a date that he would like to have the map. There is no law that the registrar must have an ordinance in place by that date.”

The California Voters Rights Act (CVRA) is the law,” Munoz continued.

“The registrar’s dates a simply a preference. This council chose to take part in the safe harbor period established by the CVRA. You were, repeatedly, made aware that you were not required to act this way.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Council woman Lewis, after repeatedly reiterating the aforementioned published timeline had nothing to do with Mr. and Mrs. Hill, said that she had “no idea where that (accusation) came from,” She then apologized to Munoz and Council.

‘I take total responsibility,” Lewis said.

“I went off the information I was supplied by the registrar. If you are saying, what the registrar said, has nothing to do with it, I take responsibility for that.”

District election for districts 1, 2, and 3 will move forward on Nov. 5. —DR www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Rabbis Eli, Faygie Goorevitch to Open Jewish Center in Dana Point Rabbi Eli and Faygie Goorevitch just recently moved to Dana Point to establish the city’s first and only Jewish Center.

Rabbi Goorevitch Jr. grew up in Laguna Beach and then relocated to New York to continue his studies. His wife Faygie is from Georgia, where her parents run a Chabad Jewish center and synagogue.

“Dana Point seemed like the perfect fit for us,” Rabbi Goorevitch said. “As a young rabbinical student, I spent many days (in Dana Point) meeting with residents and shopkeepers before the holidays; bringing Challah for Shabbat, blowing the shofar, and handing out Menorahs for Chanukah, but there was never a formal Jewish presence in town.” The young couple is thrilled to be settling in Dana Point.

“One initial focus of Chabad will be youth and teen programming, with the implementation of the highly successful worldwide CTeen program,” continued Rabbi Eli. Plans are underway for Shabbat services, holiday events and adult education. In addition, one-on-one study sessions and Bar/Bat Mitzvah tutoring are just a few of the opportunities that will be made available at Chabad. For more information regarding Chabad of Dana Point, visit www.jewishdanapoint.com or call the Rabbi at 949.290.0628.

SCARWF Presents Scholarship Winners At the San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated (SCARWF) meeting, held June 13 at the Talega Golf Club, the focus was on the eight 2018 scholarship award winners. San Clemente High School representative Grace Krantz will attend Harvard University, and Anna Putman will attend Brigham Young University. Dana Hills High School representative Kelsey Ash of Laguna Niguel will attend the University of California, Los Angeles. San Juan Hills High School representatives Lucy Collins of Ladera Ranch will attend Columbia University. Morgan Derifield of San Juan Capistrano will attend Texas Christian University. St. Margaret’s representative Skyler Cordrey will attend the University of Pennsylvania. Capistrano Valley High School representatives Trevor Diuco of Aliso Viejo will attend Gonzaga University. Tabitha Landendorf of San Juan Capistrano will attend Cal Poly, San Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

FRIDAY, JUNE 22

MOVIE IN THE PARK: ‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’ 8 p.m. The City of Dana Point’s Community Services Department brings the Summer Movies in the Park Series.

Concessions will be available for sale.

The proceeds will benefit SOS/Paths Club of DHHS. For questions, call the Community Services Department at 949.248.3530 or email recreation@ danapoint.org. Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Rd. MONDAY, JUNE 25 The Dana Point chapter of the Lion’s Heart community service group rewarded a number of local youth for contributing nearly 5,000 hours of cumulative community service over the last year. A full list of youths honored can be seen on www.danapointtimes.com. Photo: Courtesy

Luis Obispo. Award winners read their essays under the theme “why they feel they are Republicans.” SCARWF Chair for College Outreach, Paula Prizio and the University of California, Irvine College Republican President Kimo Gandall, spoke about how important it is to stay true to Republican values.

For more information about SCARWF, visit www.sanclementerepublicanwomen. org.

police and fire fighters, who will have their equipment there for display.

Doheny Village Hand Car Wash is located at 34241 Doheny Park Rd., Capistrano Beach, across the street from the Pepi’s Sports Bar and Grill.

Local residents who are unable to participate are welcome to support the cause with a tax-exempt donation by visiting www.danapoint5thmarines.com.

Dana Point Lion’s Heart Chapter Celebrates Local Youth for Community Service

5th Marine Regiment Support Group Car Wash to be Held on June 30 On Saturday, June 30, the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group (DPSG) Car Wash will be held at Doheny Village Hand Car Wash (DVHCW) from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The 5th Marines are currently deployed to the Middle East for a nine-month tour.

Proceeds from the annual car wash, one of the major fundraisers held by the DPSG, will be used to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project, Marines, Sailors and families of the 5th Marine Regiment, especially while their loved ones are far away.

The DVHCW is owned by James Surber, who has offered his car wash services for the cost of a donation. All the proceeds will go to the DPSG. Look for the “Heroes Car Wash” signs along the route.

All refreshments are complimentary, including coffee and fresh home-baked goods courtesy of The Coffee Importers and a barbecue lunch courtesy of Waterman’s Harbor and StillWater Spirits and Sounds. There will be opportunities for locals to learn more about our community and the 5th Marines by visiting a Marine Corps recruiting booth and meeting local

The Dana Point Lion’s Heart community service group recently awarded local youth with their prestigious presidential and torchbearer awards for contributing nearly 5,000 hours of community service in South Orange County. Over the last year, Lion’s Heart youth have shipped 300 pounds of diapers for victims of Hurricane Harvey, served and provided more than 400 sack meals to local homeless, helped pack and distribute thousands of backpacks for the local homeless through Operation Helping Hands, participated in local beach cleanups, took part in breast cancer awareness cheering sections, provided staffing assistance to the Happiness Project benefiting local shelter kids, participated in Boys and Girls Club benefits and more.

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

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

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DANA POINT HARBOR ADVISORY BOARD 5-7 p.m. The Dana Point Harbor Advisory Board will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at the Dana Point Harbor Sailing and Events Center. Pilothouse Conference Room. 34451 Ensenada Pl. www.dphadvisoryboard.org.

TUESDAY, JUNE 26

DOHENY DESALINATION DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT MEETING 6-8 p.m. Learn more about the project and provide comments on the findings in the draft EIR. Come at 6 p.m. to speak with project team members and visit educational stations. Capistrano Unified School District Administrative Offices. 33122 Valle Rd., San Juan Capistrano.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27

MONARCH BEACH SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 7 a.m. Every Wednesday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes anyone interested in making a difference in the local community and changing the world to join them in their weekly meeting. Doors open and breakfast begins at 7 a.m. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern. www.monarchbeachsunriserotary.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 28

COASTMASTERS’ (TOASTMASTERS) 7-8:30 a.m. Join the members of the Coastmasters’ every Thursday to improve speaking and leadership skills. 34451 Ensenada Place. Adjacent to Baby Beach at OC Sailing & Events center. www.coastmasters.org.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SOAPBOX Dana Point

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Daniel Ritz, 949.388.7700, x113 dritz@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com Photo: File

DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Emily Rasmussen

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Real Estate Sales Executive > Jennifer Guy ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

General Manager > Alyssa Garrett

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

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

Dana Point Times, Vol. 11, Issue 25. The DP Times (www. danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

Letters to the Editor GOOD INTENTIONS & UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES: PART 5 MADELINE LETCHFORD, Capistrano Beach

I’m far from a biblical expert, and biblical quotes can be singled out, interpreted differently, and sometimes even contradict each other (not to mention not every single member of Dana Point and Capo Beach subscribe to the teachings of Christianity) But are equally affected by societal issues.

Yes, Jesus spoke about helping those who are down. His Apostle Paul also wrote in Thessalonians 2 3:10-15: “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.”

I implore the organizers and supporters of the Welcome Inn Feed to finally accept that this beachside buffet is not helping people in its current form. Please recognize and respect the countless pleas of the local community and move your feed to a location where it is truly welcomed, and it does not restrict how all people can comfortably use our state beach.

Everyone deserves actual and perceived public safety in our state and city parks.

This safety is non-existent in the hours before and after your feed. By "welcoming" transients, you have made so many others unwelcome. There are two sides to this feed, and both deserve respect.

The Welcome Inn is the only one demanding and getting respect. You were once empowered by the ACLU, and now refuse to care about the residents of Dana Point/ Capistrano Beach. The feed will serve anywhere it's hosted, and is not dependent on the current location. The voices of the people who live here full-time matter.

Please phase out your feeding, move to a location – such as churches with banquet space and large parking lots just like State Beach—where the people who accept meals can be offered social services at a place equipped to support such a program.

FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS BILL WEIMER, Vice President of Phantom Fireworks Companies

With the Fourth of July rapidly approaching, Phantom Fireworks would like to remind our friends and customers that some pets adversely react to the lights and noise of fireworks. With a little extra effort, our pets can be spared the trauma they sometimes experience from fireworks.

Phantom Fireworks asks that you please be mindful of the following.

Keep your pets indoors during fireworks displays.

Turn on the TV or radio and air conditioning to help mask the noise of the fireworks. Keep pets in a soothing, dark room with light jazz or classical music playing.

The idea is to muffle the fireworks noise with something soothing. Close draperies to help soundproof the residence.

Many suggest walking or exercising the pet prior to the fireworks in an effort to tire out the pet in hopes the pet will be

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asleep through the fireworks.

Be home or have someone at the home indoors with the pet to offer encouragement and support for the pet. Close all windows and doors and block pet doors to prevent escape.

You could try distracting the pet as soon as the fireworks begin by involving the pet in something enjoyable like fetch.

Prepare a safe area where the pet can burrow in to feel safe. Maybe some blankets under a bed or a blanket draped over a small table. Play a radio near that area. Feeding the pet in the area will help the pet associate the area with other good things.

Do not take your animal to a fireworks show or let the pet outdoors while fireworks are being used.

You might consider consulting with your veterinarian several weeks before fireworks season. Some pets may require sedation. The veterinarian could suggest some behavior modification techniques.

Many of these suggestions have come from Press-Enterprise, Riverside; Blue Cross for Pets, UK; Pet MD; Humane Society of U.S.; and The Telegraph, UK. Phantom Fireworks hopes you enjoy the Independence Day holiday safely and show courtesy and compassion to your pets and animals.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ danapointtimes.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. www.danapointtimes.com

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘The Incredibles 2’ is a Fun Comeback

EDITOR’S PICK

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

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to Dana Point Times by going to www.danapointtimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Photo: Disney • Pixar

Friday | 22 SHACC OHANA GALA 6:30 p.m. Surfing Heritage’s Ohana Gala, presented by Roxy, is honoring women who have inspired future generations through surfing. The evening includes an intimate dinner, entertainment, awards ceremony and a live and silent auction. Seating is limited, and tickets are $350 for non-members and $300 for SHACC members, and $4,000 for a table of 10. The 2018 “Women Making Waves” honorees are Joyce Hoffman, Lisa Andersen, and Stephanie Gilmore.

SHACC’s Lifetime Achievement Award will be bestowed to Rell Sunn. All proceeds support Surfing Heritage and Culture Center.

A silent auction and reception will take place followed by a 7:30 p.m. dinner, awards and live auction. The Ranch at Laguna Beach, 31106 S. Coast Hwy. 949.388.0313. www.surfingheritage.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7 p.m. Join Iva Lee’s for live music every Wednesday through Sunday. For the ultimate live music experience, be sure to reserve a lounge table on Fridays and Saturdays. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

Saturday | 23 DANA WHARF SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE MUSIC CRUISES RETURN 8-9:30 p.m. Dana Wharf’s Dana Pride rocks every Saturday night with classic rock, reggae artists, and a rock band. The cruise takes passengers along the shores of Dana Point Harbor. The cruise is priced at $25 per person, and each guest is greeted with a glass of the famous Pride Punch. A cash bar is available for passengers’ convenience. To book a cruise, go online at www. danawharf.com, or call 949.496.5794 ext 7.

34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

OCEAN INSTITUTE WILD WEEKENDS: INATURALIST WORKSHOP 1-2 p.m. Have you ever seen wildlife and wondered what it was? Would you like to Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

Surfers compete in the tandem surfing exhibition at the Doheny Surf Festival. Photo: File

SATURDAY, JUNE 23-SUNDAY, JUNE 24: DOHENY SURF AND ART FESTIVAL 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Come to Doheny State Beach for a free two-day celebration of Southern California surfing lifestyle. There will be a surfers vendor village with art and collectibles, a kids surf contest, a ’60s surf contest, a tandem exhibition, surf tricks exhibition, local surfboard shops, Kona Beer garden (with wine and spirits, also), live music, Polynesian dancing, food, healthy living demonstrations, a classic longboard exhibit, classic woodie car show and more. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Harbor Dr., Dana Point. For sponsor, vendor and other information, email info@dohenystatebeach.org. For information on surf contests, email mark@gale.name. Go to www.dohenystatebeach.org for more information.

discover more about the fascinating animals and plants living all around you and help collect scientific data at the same time? This wild hands-on workshop will enable you to use and enjoy a free app called iNaturalist. Join this workshop and become a citizen scientist. Included with admission to the Ocean Institute: $10 adults/$7.50 children. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institue.org.

Sunday | 24

activity, in addition to admission, and $3 for members. Bundle for all three craft/activities is $10 per child, in addition to admission, and $5 for members.

A parent or sitter must be present to participate. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. For more information, go to www.missionsjc.com or call 949.234.1300.

Tuesday | 26

GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Monday | 25

Wednesday | 27

SUMMER BREAK ACTIVITIES AT MISSION SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano is offering special summer break activities for children (appropriate for ages 6 to 12) beginning June 25 to Aug. 17. From 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Monday-Friday, children can participate in making an arrowhead necklace, build adobe brick and pan for gold. Cost is $5 for each craft/

OLD CAPISTRANO CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET 3-6 p.m. Stop by and check out some locally grown, organic produce and artisan goodies at a farmers market that has been going strong for over 15 years. Free admission. Historic Town Center Park. 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

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F

ourteen years ago, Pixar’s The Incredibles made mini-history as the animation studio’s first feature film to focus on human characters. Previously, Pixar movies were about talking animals, such as Finding Nemo (2003), talking bugs A Bug’s Life (1998), talking toys Toy Story (1995) and talking imaginary creatures Monster’s Inc. (2001). Now, the superhero family is back and ready for more fantastic CGI action.

The Incredibles 2 returns Brad Bird to animation after experimenting with live-action with Mission: Impossible— Ghost Protocol (2011) and Tomorrowland (2015).

Only three months after defeating mega-villain Syndrome, the Parr family is back into hiding, as superheroes are still technically illegal. As soon as they find out that the “Super Relocation” program was successfully shut down by the government, Bob/ Mr. Incredible (Craig T. Nelson) and Helen/Elastigirl (Holly Hunter) and Lucius/Frozone (Samuel L. Jackson) get contacted by broadcasting tycoon and superhero supporter Winston Deavor (Bob Odenkirk). Deavor and his sister, Evelyn (Catherine Keener), want to help bring back superheroes into relevancy and legality. Sophia Bush and Isabella Rossellini make appearances as new characters.

Incredibles 2 is essentially a remake of Mr. Mom (1983) with some commentary on how superheroes have taken over western pop culture. Like most sequels, the original is still slightly better, but the new feature has plenty to look for. The sequel is primarily centered on the female characters, naturally, and not in a pandering way. Some of the comic relief doesn’t completely take off— particularly with the baby in the Parr family. But for those who just want to see their favorite CGI heroes again, it delivers. DP www.danapointtimes.com

The Cellar

Sunday Funday

Local brunch spots in South OC to explore this summer

By Rachael Mattice

S

undays are celebrated in a variety of ways across different cultures and regions. To some, it may be a day of religion and reflection, to others it could be chore day—when laundry, household cleaning, gym sessions, car washing and kids clothes shopping must be checked off a to-do list.

In a lot of Southern California and South Orange County “cultures,” Sunday Fun Day means sporting events, beach days and friendly outings where alcoholic beverages and savory breakfast dishes are consumed at an outdoor patio with a view. In fact, brunch has become so popular that some restaurants and eateries have popped up that cater specifically to this hybrid morning-mid-day menu.

Take a look at a few South Orange County eateries that are heavyweights in this category.

Café Mimosa

243 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente 949.481.6780. www.thecafemimosa.com When you’re in San Clemente and want to do breakfast the right way, the native French-now-San Clementean Price family comes to mind. Both Antoine’s Café on El Camino Real and Café Mimosa on Avenida Del Mar are owned and operated by members of the family, but it’s the French bistro and Ole Hanson-themed atmosphere

StillWater Spirits and Sounds of Café Mimosa that takes the cake—or pancake, for that matter—and rules the brunch domain.

Reinvigorating “quickly”—served quality food—the word “bistro” meaning “quickly” originating from the German language, said Price— Café Mimosa offers a variety of small plates and entrees—including the “Omelette Du Jour,” “Egg White Frittatas,” “Tartine” and “Roasted Vegetable Panini”—as well as nine varieties of mimosas, beer and unique coffee drinks.

“We want to be the neighborhood place where you can bring your friends or motherin-law and we try to keep it fancy, but not a once-a-year-type place,” said Antoine Price Jr., owner of Café Mimosa. “We don’t want it to be out of reach.”

rated in pre-prohibition rust colors, industrial lighting, sporting an outdoor pizza oven and a speakeasy-inspired-dressed staff, it’s no surprise StillWater specializes in unique cocktails and live entertainment. Although bottomless mimosas are on the menu for guests every day, the brunch items and mixology-inspired drinks make for a decadent color display on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

“We’ve tried to incorporate some lighter fare, such as the salmon avocado toast— that’s also on our small bites menu,” said Executive Chef Steve Kling. “We want (StillWater) to be a healthy and coastal atmosphere and tailor to the people who are very health conscious, but don’t want to sacrifice flavor on top of that.”

MUST TRY DISHES

MUST TRY DISHES

Gravlax: House-cured salmon, grape tomatoes, toasted herbed focaccia and herb emulsion Eggs Benedict: Toasted brioche, smoked paprika hollandaise, house potatoes in traditional, Florentine or salmon options Crème Brulee French Toast: Ciabatta bread, custard, crème anglaise, seasonal fruit

Avocado Toast and Cured Salmon: Toasted sourdough topped with avocado, dill, baby tomatoes, red onion and house-cured salmon Craftsman Breakfast: Three eggs any way, potatoes, an English muffin with bacon, IPA brats or burger patties Spanish Chorizo Wood Fire Pizza: Spicy tomato sauce, mozzarella, garden oregano, chorizo bilbao

WASH IT DOWN WITH...

Bunny Bloodys: A mix of vodka, tomato juice, a pinch of Tabasco sauce, salt and celery Mimosas: A concoction of sparkling wine with over nine juice-based flavors, including raspberry and passion fruit Pinot Noir, McManis Family Vineyards: This pinot noir includes fresh cherry, strawberry and raspberry flavors with vanilla undertones Almond Milk Latte: An alternative twist on the traditional latte, including organic almond milk, a few drops of stevia and black coffee

StillWater Spirits and Sounds

24701 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com

Café Mimosa

StillWater Spirits and Sounds is a Dana Point restaurant and bar founded on history.

Formerly a live music venue and now deco-

WASH IT DOWN WITH...

Casarita: A mix of Patron tequila fresh lime, agave nectar and orange essence Angie’s Secret Bloody Mar: Jalapeñoinfused Svedka vodka, house-made bloody mary mix, seasoned pickled accoutrements Kissed By a Rose: Ketal One botanical vodka grapefruit and rose, solerno, lemon juice, grapefruit juice, champagne and soda water Latin Coffee: Patron XO tequila, Rumchata, coffee

Sol Agave Restaurant

31111 Rancho Viejo Rd., San Juan Capistrano 949.218.1158. www.solagavesjc.com When Sol Agave President and CEO Jesus Galvez and Executive Chef Manny Velasco first envisioned the future of the Sol Agave brand in 2014, they didn’t expect the two

food trucks would transform into the fullblown kitchen and restaurant that it is today.

God had other plans for them, Galvez said, and the duo were driven to change the way guests perceived Mexican food.

“We wanted it to be more complex, more enjoyable and healthy,” Galvez said. “There’s so many layers to Mexican food and Manny and I would often go out together and see big gaps in what Mexican food really should be.”

The city of San Juan Capistrano and Marbella Marketplace have really embraced Sol Agave, said Galvez, and adding a brunch menu to their specialties of carnitas, seafood and steak was about cultivating more Mexican culture Sunday traditions with locals and residents alike.

“In our culture, we always look forward to Sunday because it means going to church and everybody meeting at a restaurant to talk about everybody’s week or upcoming events,” Galvez said. “Sunday is really when we can embrace the family and come together as one and we wanted dishes that would be inviting and motivate family members to congregate here and have a great time.”

According to Velasco, some of the most popular dishes, and his recommendations, would be to try the “Tampiqueña,” “Chilaquiles Rojos” or “Huevos Rancheros.”

For beverages, one of the “top 10 Mexican” drinks offered at Sol Agave is Café de Olla, or the cocktail that comes with a flaming presentation.

MUST TRY DISHES

Sol Agave Restaurant Chilaquiles Rojos: Crispy corn chips, salsa roja, eggs, onions and avocado Filet Mignon Eggs Benedict: Two filet mignon eggs benedict, hollandaise sauce, jalapeño potatoes and avocado Tampiqueña: 7-ounce skirt steak, cheese enchiladas, guacamole and caramelized onion Trio De Sopes: Crab and shrimp meat, short rib or carnitas with lettuce and cabbage, queso, aioli and pico sauces WASH IT DOWN WITH...

Raspberry Chipotle Margarita: Maestro Dobel tequila, agave mix, fresh raspberry, mint and a sugar chipotle rim Grilled Piña Margarita: Maestro Dobel tequila, muddle grilled piña jalapeños, agave mix and a chili rim Mexican Coffee/Café de Olla: An artisan cinnamon-based coffee without cream or sugar, Kahlua or Bailey’s and tequila Spicy Paloma: Milagro silver, ancho reyes, agave mix and a tajin rim served on the rocks

Moscato d’Asti, 2017, Castiglione Tinella, Italy • Cremant D’Alsace, 2016, Hubert Meyer, Alsace, France NV • Vigneto Cialdini Lambrusco, Cleto Chiarli, Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro, Emilia-Romagna, Italy NV

Stop and Smell the Rosé

SUGGESTED PAIRINGS

Truffle Popcorn, Burrat & Greens salad and Lock Duart Salmon for rosés. Fried Buttermilk Chicken Butty sandwich or Sidewinder Fries for sparkling wine.

We Olive & Wine Bar

31760 Camino Capistrano, Ste. B, San Juan Capistran. 949.441.7279, www.weolive.com

Refresh your thirsty taste buds this summer with these rosé, sparkling wines in South OC

By Rachael Mattice

S

ophisticated wine tasters used to have to travel to popular wine meccas such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles or even Temecula to test their palettes, but Orange County’s approximately 12 vineyards and countless wine bars are giving the behemoth wine regions and massive production companies a run for their money.

The latest trend that a few of these OCbased wineries are promoting for the hot summer season is Provence, France-originated rosés and the wedding season favorite sparkling wines. Here are a few of their featured and favorite picks suitable for both the seasoned and newbie wine taster.

Giracci Vineyards and Farms/ A Stone’s Throw Winery 29943 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano 949.364.2063 www.stonesthrowwinery.com

Planting their vineyard of 250 vines of each variety in 2008, Giracci Vineyards and Farms in Silverado has become a growing staple for smaller production, and later acquired the Hamilton Oaks name and tasting room in San Juan Capistrano that is now called A Stone’s Throw Winery. Joined, A Stone’s Throw/ Giracci produce an assortment of vintages, most recently, a completely dry rosé blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, pinot noir and primitivo, or a combination of everything Giracci makes on their property.

“We try to concentrate all of our wines to get a deeper color and better extraction from the red wines,” said Chad Kearns, owner of Giracci Vineyards and Farms and A Stone’s Throw Winery. “A lot of winemakers in California used to throw (those contents) away, but I started making rosé out of it and then the (rosé trend) really hit and it became big in California.”

Totaling between $20-$25 a bottle, all of the vintages at Giracci are cost effective, Kearns said, and most of the wines include higher alcohol content at about 15 percent.

The top tier quality is important to Kearns and Giracci winemaker Sébastien Noel who educated guests on high-end characteristics of rosé such as clarity, aromatics, acidity and balance.

Giracci Vineyards and Farms/A Stone’s Throw Winery

“Rosés are not typically meant to be sweet,” Noel said. “They are fermented dry and we only have a few (rosés) that we’ve left with sugar just because we are getting requests for that kind of thing.”

FEATURED WINE

Giracci Dry Rosé, 2017 blend of syrah, pinot noir, primitivo, cabernet sauvignon and white wine.

SUGGESTED PAIRINGS

Lean meats such as turkey or chicken.

The Cellar

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente 949.492.3663. www.thecellarsite.com The Cellar in downtown San Clemente is one of the many bubbling wine bars and restaurants in South OC, featuring a broad assortment of sparkling wines as well as at least three rosé wines available by the glass, bottle or in a flight.

“Our Triennes rosé is super light with flavors of strawberry and melon,” said Monica

Little, sommelier for The Cellar. “It’s on our happy hour menu and what people typically lean toward first. Our Ontañón is a style of Rosado and a blend of Viura, a white grape, and two different red wines, Tempranillo and Garnacha. It has a bit of pepper but is also really light. Although most people are familiar with sauvignon blancs from New Zealand, Spy Valley’s rosé is really refreshing with notes of grapefruit.”

According to Little, the only way The Cellar is able to offer three rosés by the glass for wine tasters is because of their drastic variations stylistically. The three rosés are available in a flight for $14. Champagne flights—including a Crémant, La Perle and Lambrusco— is also available.

FEATURED WINES

Sparkling Rosé Perle de ma Mère La Perle Crémant de Bourgogne, Chassagne-Montrachet, France NV • Rosé, Ontañón, Clarete, 2017, Rioja, Spain • Rosé, Spy Valley, 2017, Marlborough, New Zealand • Rosé, Triennes, 2017, Nans-Les-Vins, France • Cascinetta Vietti,

We Olive & Wine Bar’s 20-month-old San Juan Capistrano location is conveniently located within walking distance of the city’s historic landmarks and specializes in offering unique wines unavailable in major retailers like Costco or BevMo. Owner Ed Szubielski also said of the 57 wines he wanted to feature by the glass, eight or nine would also be from his previously owned EB Winery.

One EB Winery staple is the 2016 Rosé of Grenache, a distinct change of pace from the typical pinot noir-based rosé.

“The rosé grenache we made by mistake initially since we only get one shot at the fruit each year,” Szubielski said. “It turned out well for us because we wanted to bring in a rosé because they are hot right now.”

We Olive & Wine Bar now has a Thursday summer special on their featured six rosé wines, including happy hour prices all day.

FEATURED WINES

Rosé of Grenache, EB Winery, 2016, Alta Mesa, California • Rosé Des Amis, ALC/ VOL Des Amis Wines, 2017, Carmel, California • NV Folktale Sparkling Rosé, Folktale Winery and Vineyards, Carmel, California SUGGESTED PAIRINGS

Watermelon Salad: Watermelon bites, feta cheese, bacon and a balsamic vinaigrette drizzle.

Vine Restaurant & Bar

211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com Frequently anointed the perfect romantic date location by San Clemente locals, Vine Restaurant & Bar prides itself on providing high quality wines at valued prices.

“We want our guests to come in and enjoy our food and have plenty of options of wine to choose from,” said Gabe Whorely, partner at Vine Restaurant & Bar. “We’ve never been a big fan of being a happy hour spot. We want to give you the best price no matter what.”

JCB, No. 21 Brut Crémant de Bourgogne, is one of the top selling sparkling wines at Vine, or the “classic champagne” option, according to Whorely. At only $12 a glass, it has toasted almond flavors and a crisp finish.

FEATURED WINES

Sparkling Prosecco, La Marca, DOC, Italy • Sparkling JCB, No. 21 Brut Crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy, France • Rosé, Famille Perrin, 2016 Côtes du Rhône, Réserve, France We Olive & Wine Bar

SUGGESTED PAIRINGS

Market Fresh Oysters on the Half Shelf, Jumbo Lump Crab & Roasted Heirloom Beets.

Here Comes

the Sun

Soak up the music at these summertime concerts, festivals in South OC

By Rachael Mattice

W

hether you enjoy two-stepping, jiving, break dancing, headbanging or just grooving, there is bound to be a festival, concert or gig that music lovers can move with the audio flow to this summer in South Orange County. Here are a few of the top picks for any kind of style, budget or vibe.

Festival Season Festival season is upon us and traveling to Europe or the Coachella Valley isn’t necessary to experience the all-encompassing festivities.

San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival returns on Sunday, Aug. 12 and will take over Avenida Del Mar for a full day of free live music, salsa and food contests, a motorcycle show, action sports exhibitions, and art displays. Bands such as Tunnel Vision, The Roney Boys and Bad Hombres tore up the stages last year. This year for the 65th anniversary, festival goers can expect the same high-energy, beach-style event filled with music and shenanigans. Learn more about the festival at www.scchamber.com.

Returning for its third year is Ohana Music Festival at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point from Sept. 28 – Sept. 30. The ocean-view backdrop, taco bars, açai bowl stations and local brew vendors all but add to the experience to correspond with the sets of Eric Church, Eddie Vedder, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Liz Phair, Mumford & Sons and Beck. Ticket prices start at $99.75, but fortunately, the

September dates give festival goers plenty of time to save up. Visit www.ohanafest. com for more information.

Small Venue Movers and groovers looking for more traditional one-off concerts can always turn to The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano for a variety of entertainment. In addition to comedy nights, local artists and benefit shows, old-school metalheads can mosh for a night with Geoff Tate on Friday, Aug. 10, famously known as the former vocalist for progressive metal band Queensÿche.

The Coach House is going to welcome Justin Hayward on Friday, Sept. 7, or as others know him, the guitarist and vocalist for British rock band The Moody Blues.

To see the full summer schedule and calendar at The Coach House, visit www. thecoachhouse.com.

Free Shows South Orange County residents are blessed with the close proximity to L.A.’s music mecca, offering ample opportunities for well-known artists and quality musicians to add pit-stops in the tri-city area on their larger tours. Such is the case for Dana Point’s opening Summer Concert Series show at Sea Terrance Park with psychedelic rock band Iron Butterfly on Sunday, July 8. See a full roster of summer concerts at www.danapoint.org.

Dana Point continues ruling the music landscape with a performance by The White Buffalo at Salt Creek Beach on Thursday, Aug.

16. A punk-turned-country-influenced musician, The White Buffalo’s Jake Smith has seen a lot of success in the last handful of years and brought gritty Americana into mainstream airwaves. To listen to the discography and see all upcoming tour dates for The White Buffalo, visit www.thewhitebuffalo.com.

Wake up all of the senses and make summertime memories while next to one of South Orange County’s most iconic structures—the San Clemente Pier. The city will host its annual Beach Concert Series on select Thursday evenings at 6 p.m., commencing with Flashback Heart Attack on Thursday, June 21. Take a look at the rest of the San Clemente schedule: • JULY 12: Kelly Boyz at Linda Lane Park • JULY 26: Wigs & Ties at the Pier • AUGUST 16: Wheeland Brothers at the Pier • AUGUST 30: Tunnel Vision at the Pier

For more information, visit www.sanclemente.org.

local eateries In addition to the local festivals and outdoor concerts, South Orange County residents and their visitors can simply stroll through San Clemente, Dana Point or San Juan Capistrano and will stumble across multiple local eateries and bars with live music on a nightly or weekly basis.

San Clemente

IVA LEE’S RESTAURANT

555 N. El Camino Real, Ste. E. www.ivalees.com

BARNOA WINE COMPANY

831 Via Suerte, Ste. 106. www.barnoawinebar.com

ADELE’S AT THE SAN CLEMENTE INN

located at 2600 Ave Del Presidente. www.adelesanclementeinn.com

KNUCKLEHEADS SPORTS BAR & GRILL

1717 N. El Camino Real. www.facebook.com/ knuckleheadssportsbarsanclemente

Dana Point

HENNESSEY’S TAVERN

34111 La Plaza. www.hennesseystavern.com LUXE RESTAURANT AND MARTINI BAR

24582 Del Prado Ave. www.luxefinedining.com

THE WINE BISTRO & WHISKEY BAR

34091 La Plaza. www.winebistrodp.com BRIO TUSCANY GRILLE

24050 Camino Del Avion. www.briorestaurant.com

San Juan Capistrano SWALLOW’S INN

31786 Camino Capistrano www.swallowsinn.com

TREVOR’S AT THE TRACKS

26701 Verdugo St. www.trevorsatthetracks.com RANCHO CAPISTRANO WINERY

26755 Verdugo St. www.ranchocapwinery.com 19 SPORTS BAR & GRILL

San Juan Hills Golf Club. 32120 San Juan Creek Rd. www.19sportsbar.com

Trails and Tails Ortega Equestrian Center brings horse culture to South OC residents, visitors alike

By Emily Rasmussen

T

he sound of horseshoes hitting the dusty, dirt trail along San Juan Creek is complimented by sunshine slipping through cracks of bamboo sticks as a handful of horses make their way through unfeigned San Juan Capistrano.

Sweets, a mild-tempered painted mare, steadily clip-clops her way through brush along San Juan Creek on a warm June afternoon, with her ears perked and eyes aimed at the trail ahead. Sitting atop Sweets, a feeling of complete bliss washes over my mind as if with each step the mare takes, there’s a hammer chiseling away at each of my mundane worries.

Kathy Holman, owner of the Ortega Equestrian Center, has centered her life and career from the joy that she, and others at the center, also feel when in the presence of horses. Her

love for horses started at 5 years old and grew further when she turned 12, saving her babysitting money to buy a horse of her own.

“I learn the names of horses better than I do some people,” Holman laughed, as she walks along her stables.

Now, overseer of her own equestrian facility with trail rides, lessons, boarding and equine therapy (to name a few), Holman strives to keep alive the culture and lessons that cultivated her passion, and to pass it onto others.

“It’s a wonderful family activity, where you can all do it together. It really works well with teaching children responsibility and hard work,” Holman said.

Walking into the dusty lot of Ortega Equestrian Center, the faint smell of hay and stables fills your nostrils with a nostalgic scent of San Juan’s equestrian history. At capacity, the center holds 130 horses, two miniature horses, a goat, a donkey, chickens and two lovable Labradors.

Erin Bro, who also got into the horse com-

munity at 5 years old, started out at Ortega Equestrian Center and has grown into a trail guide, in addition to helping out at the center in other ways.

Bro and her daughter took a couple members of the Picket Fence Media team along a one-hour trail ride, which was comfortable and enjoyable for novice and experienced riders. Although Bro rides along the San Juan Creek trail on a regular basis, she doesn’t tire of the feeling of escaping to another world on the trail.

“Every trail ride that I take people on, they always say ‘I can’t believe this is here, this is so cool,’ you are in the middle of San Juan but you have bamboo running up the creek, the birds and the ducks,” Bro said.

In addition to curious journalists, Bro has taken all different types of riders along San Juan Creek, ranging from bachelorette parties to families looking for a fun outing.

“It’s very much a family stable, a lot of other locations you’ll find are very competitive driven so it might not be as family-friendly

or accessible to people,” Bro said. “I’ve been coming here since I was 5 because all ages were accepted and you didn’t have to be on a competitive track.”

The majority of the Ortega Equestrian Center staffers share similar backgrounds, most of them having come to the center as a child for lessons or summer camp. Now adults, they teach the next generation of Ortega cowgirls, who were at the center during the interview.

All three young girls, who handle the massive animals with comfort and attentiveness as if they weren’t a fraction of the horses’ size, sport horse-themed shirts and make innocent bets on whose horse is “faster” or “better.”

“It crosses demographics, it’s multicultural and at the heart of it all is a respect for Western culture and what ideals come with being a cowboy and cowgirl and I think that’s a really cool thing to see in a younger generation,” Bro said.

Ortega Equestrian Center is one of the few remaining stables that offer recreational trail rides to the public, which can be made via appointment. Whether you’re a person who has never sat on the back of a horse, or an experienced rider who isn’t fortunate enough to own your own horse, taking a ride along San Juan Creek through Ortega Equestrian Center is a must-do this summer for anyone with an adventurous and open mind.

Ortega Equestrian Center is located at 27252 Calle Arroyo, San Juan Capistrano. To make a trail ride appointment or to learn more, call 949.661.3130 or visit their website at www.ortegaequestriancetner.com. One-hour guided tours for one to three people is considered a private tour and is $60 per person; and for groups of four or more, it is $40 each.

Take a Time-Out from Adulting Activities, South OC Locations

Best Suited for a Grown-up Recess

Docent Brewing

By Daniel Ritz and Eric Heinz

I

n Southern California, especially South Orange County, a day off is often the only day busier than a day at work. The region is full of active people, looking to make the most of the opportunities provided by the abundant sunlight, beautiful natural surroundings and easy-going lifestyle.

That being said, everyone needs to kick back and relax from time to time.

Here are a few locations to get out but stay engaged, leave the children and responsibilities at home and bring out your own inner child.

Dana Point

the point 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com Commonly a sports bar might bring to mind locations that offer a space conducive to watch sports. At The Point, patrons can certainly do that, but also partake in a friendly game of cornhole, or enter into the ping-pong tournament while overlooking the serene Pacific Ocean below.

With breathtaking views, delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere, The Point raises the bar in providing a variety of adult-friendly activities.

Bocce Ball If an alcohol-free day sounds more appealing, there’s an abundance of opportunities to get that much needed weekend Vitamin D before returning to the office on Monday.

The city of Dana point constructed three full-size, 13-foot by 91-foot bocce ball courts in 2014 in the shadows of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. Take advantage of the open space and bask in the sun while enjoying this multigenerational game.

San Clemente

Lost Winds Brewing Company 924 Calle Negocio, Ste. C, San Clemente www.lostwindsbrewing.com Lost Winds, similar to Docent Brewing, is a local brewery quickly making a name for itself in the regional craft beer community. Opening in 2004, Lost Winds has been able to grow while maintaining its San Clemente patronage.

This brewery, handcrafted inside of a relatively unsuspecting industrial park, has an open-air neighborhood feel when the high back doors are made accessible and the natural light sparkles off of the brewing vats. Children playing games, and dogs reaping the benefits of food dropped from one of the regularly featured food trucks, provides a family-friendly atmosphere where people can alternate between tasting any one of the hand-crafted brews as well as keeping the little ones entertained and in the sun.

“We are welcoming to all walks of life,” Lost Winds Manager Rachael Cosmakos said. “We want to be accessible, where everyone can feel like they can come and just hang out.”

Lost Winds Brewing Company

Volleyball, Beach Activities Even on an exceptionally warm summer day, the ocean breeze will keep beach volleyball players cool. Some of San Clemente’s and Dana Point’s most popular recreational activities are located on or near the beach.

San Juan Capistrano

Docent Brewing 33049 Calle Aviador, Ste. C, San Juan Capistrano www.docentbrewery.com Docent Brewing, co-founded by Brian Hendon, Joe Wilshire and Scott Cortellessa, has the sense of a schoolyard playground soaked in adult class where there’s something for everyone, and everyone is on recess.

Walking into Docent Brewing, the attention to detail and emphasis on community is evident. The bar, lined with smiling locals, is surrounded by massive vats where their beer is brewed on site. Around the bar is a large sitting area, where groups gather as if patrons are visiting in a friend’s living room.

After grabbing one of the more than a dozen types of beer (or wine), guests are able to challenge a friend in a game of shuffleboard, or engage in a raucous high-tension game of oversized Jenga.

Founded on the pillars of craftsmanship, community and independence, Docent Brewing is one of San Juan’s finest examples of a place to spend a day reconnecting with friends or meeting neighbors.

“One of the best things in life is being able to love what you do and inspire others,” a message reads on Docent’s website.

“It means finding your passion, learning that skill, mastering the trade and teaching others. A craftsman honors creativity and quality above all else and wants to share their experience.”

Rooted in community, the sign above the bar reads, “Eat, drink and be local.”

Be sure to check into their regular trivia nights and weekly bike rides too.

Docent Brewing is a great place to feel at-home, away from home.

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

The Summer Solstice: Déjà Vu All over Again

Y

esterday marked the first day of summer and the June solstice. A time for students of all ages to say goodbye to the textbooks and hello to the beach.

Before scurrying to sandy shores, students stop to sign yearbooks, scribbling across the colorful pages, “H.A.G.S.!”

The popular acronym translates to “Have A Great Summer,” but for college-bound kids it’s interpreted as “Hurry up And Get Started!”

I did spend my high school years having great summers and not thinking about college applications or standardized tests—but that was long ago, before the inception of the college admissions game.

Rising high school seniors planning to attend college after graduation will forgo carefree summer days playing Fortnite or binging on Netflix before building resumes and developing networks.

Soon-to-be seniors have little time for relaxing and recharging at the beach.

The summer heat they feel won’t come from the sun’s rays or the grill’s fire, but from sweating over essay drafts and application edits.

My heart aches for stressed students feeling the strain of summer’s demands. I empathize most with the high school seniors and their families during this time.

They’re about to embark on an emotional college admissions rollercoaster, a ride celebrating the highest peaks and bemoaning the deepest descends, which can be to the tune of tens, sometimes hundreds, of thousands of dollars.

The pressure of the college admission process is inescapable for applicants.

Students are advised to seize the summer and excel in sports arenas, extracurricular activities, academic challenges, philanthropic services, international journeys and employment opportunities.

If families are fortunate to find time for a summer vacation together, the destination is likely determined by their student athlete’s travel team, college campus tour schedule, or cultural diversity lesson abroad.

Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

I’m by no means a college admissions authority, just a mom who white-knuckled it on the collegiate rollercoaster with one son, and I’m also a reluctant parent buckling up for another ride.

This summer, it’s déjà vu all over again: my younger son is spending his summer playing the college admissions game, but this time he’s applying to law schools.

My son started studying for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) last year. Last month, after completing his junior year of college, he came home to continue studying and preparing for the looming LSAT. One day, while studying, he asked for my help. I picked up his practice test consisting of analytical and logical reasoning questions, read the first question and quickly closed the booklet to stop the room from spinning.

Lucky for both of us, he didn’t need my assistance with the test material but with the test clock. He asked me to watch the clock as he took each of the five, 35-minute test sections.

Months ago, we debated his taking the practice test amid distractions. Hopeful law school students claim LIFE’S A BEACH to have taken practice

By Shelley Murphy tests in sports bars, on commuter trains, and one took it in a walk-in freezer (yes, the overachiever was accepted to Harvard).

We agreed I’d recreate reasonable distractions that could occur during the test—I reluctantly ditched plans to recruit a colicky infant.

The morning of the practice test, my unsuspecting son sat ready with his No. 2 pencils. Prior to proctoring the test, knowing he loathes the heat, I cranked the thermostat in our home to 91 degrees.

During each of the five test sections, I randomly squeezed plastic water bottles until they compressed, tossed hardback books onto our tile floor, jumped up and down in the bedroom above his test table, honked my car horn, sneezed and coughed. At the end of the test we were both exhausted and showing signs of heat stroke.

My son took the LSAT last week; now, we hurry up and wait for the results as he struggles to Have A Great Summer.

Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband for the past 18 years, where she raised her two sons. She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times since 2006. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES Dana Cove, pictured in 1964, just two

years before construction of the Dana Point Harbor began.

Every week, the Dana Point Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

Pets of the Week: Bonnie and Clyde DANA POINT TIMES

M

Bonnie and Clyde. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

other-and-son duo Bonnie and Clyde are quite the adorable pair.

Bonnie is a great momma rabbit and dotes on Clyde whenever she can.

Practically a mirror image of his mother, 11-month-old Clyde is a curious bunny who loves exploring. Both rabbits are litter-trained and would make wonderful house rabbits in a quiet, loving home.

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

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:

Page 21

See the solution in next week’s issue.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

A Little Bit of Everything Doheny Surf & Art Festival returns to Doheny State Beach

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he 16th annual Doheny Surf & Art Festival, a two-day celebration of the California surfing lifestyle, returns to Doheny State Beach this Saturday, June 23, and Sunday, June 24.

This free event is a collaborative event held by the Doheny State Beach Interpretive Association (DSBIA) and the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association (DLSA).

This year marks the first time that art has officially been recognized as a segment of the event. Mario Cuevas, Doheny Surf & Art Festival Coordinator, said this year they have added an additional 30-35 artists who will all have independent booths at the show.

Surfing events include the classic DLSA Doheny Longboard Surfing Association Menehune Surfing Contest which will begin at approximately 8 a.m. on both days of the event, as well as a 1960s surf competition where competitors will be judged on original longboard “hot-dog” tricks.

At noon on Saturday, a live tandem surfing exhibition will take place.

Other attractions include live music, Polynesian dance groups, a beer garden, a longboard exhibit by the California Longboard Club, and a woodie classic car show by the Southern California Woodie Club.

Ed Neely, a former DSBIA and DLSA president, thought the wide range of activities at the festival showed the diversity of interests within the surf community.

“We’re seeing more and more people coming from further and further away,” said Steve Stirret, also an ex-president of the DSBIA and DLSA. “There really isn’t another festival like this. Anywhere.”

“It’s a celebration of all the threads of California surf culture,” Neely continued.

“And it all comes back to surfing. It’s been a lot of work, but an awful lot of fun, putting on what anyone could call a really fun day at the beach.”

This event is put on completely free (with the exception of standard State Park parking fees) thanks to DSBIA and DLSA volunteers. The proceeds of this event go toward the two clubs. DLSA fundraises for the Ronald McDonald House as well as funding various Doheny State Beach activities. The DSBIA’s mission is to promote

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

Is This Single Senior Woman Being Too Fussy in Dating Men?

S

enior dating is challenging. Single seniors mention that to me often.

It’s particularly hard for women. A comment on my Finding Love After 50 Facebook page this week underscored how difficult for them it can be.

Barb stated that she was thinking of giving up on senior dating. She based her comment on experiences she’s had with four men, which she shared. She asked if she was being too fussy.

Barb wrote, “I have been off and on dating sites since I was 60 and now I’m 79. One man I met online was an hour and a half away, we dated two months.

He wanted me to move in with him. I was in the middle of moving in with him, when he found out his daughter was getting divorced. He decided it was not a good idea for me to move in, because he was going to remodel his house and have his daughter and her two daughters move into his house.

Plus, he didn’t like television so he wanted me to buy earphones to wear

Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

when I had my television on. Well, that was the end of that relationship.

The second guy I met invited me out New Year’s Eve to a dance. He had a funny little step in his dance that was hard for me to catch onto. He kept telling me all night how well his ex-wife and he could dance together.

While walking me to my door, he put gum in his mouth, and in a minute, he said, “Oh my God, I just lost one of my teeth.” Well that was the end of that man.

I just saw him recently, which was a year later, and the tooth is still missing.

The third guy I met seemed nice and we had fun together. My sister lived near me. When her husband was dying, I went to be with her the night her husband was passing and this guy got upset and told everybody I gave him up for my sister. So that was the end of him.

A couple of weeks ago, I met a fourth man online. We exchanged messages. He asked for my email address so we could email instead of being on the dating site.

Participants celebrate after one of the surf events at the Doheny Surf & Art FestivalThe festival celebrates its 16th consecutive year this weekend on June 23 and 24. Photo: File

educational and interpretive activities as well as assisting with the preservation and restoration of its interpretive facilities.

Neely mentioned that there will be an event at Hobie Surf Shop Dana Point after

5 p.m. on Friday, June 22, for those looking to sign-up last minute for the various competitions and events. More details can be seen on www.dohenystatebeach. org/doheny-surf-festival. DP

But I couldn’t get to know him as all he talked about was that he had lost his wife five years ago to cancer. He wanted to meet a woman who would make his house a home and be his special woman.

He wanted me to forsake all others to be only with him.

I tried to talk about the future and what it would be like if we got together. It always went right back to the kind of woman he was looking for and how he wanted her to be his own and love only him.

So now I’m giving up on trying to find someone. It’s too hard.

I think I would rather ON LIFE AND go it alone. It seems like LOVE AFTER 50 I can’t find anybody. I

By Tom Blake don’t know maybe I’m too fussy. What do you think?”

I responded to Barb. “Too fussy?

Certainly not with the experiences you described. However, I do think deciding to move in with the first man who lived an hour and a half away after only knowing him for two months was a rushed decision.

The second guy, the one with the funny dance step and the missing tooth, wasn’t right for you. Any man who talks about how great he and his former wife could dance isn’t tactful and doesn’t get it.

And, not only was the third guy insensi-

tive, he was a jerk for saying what he did, during the time your sister’s husband was dying.

And finally, the fourth man, was selfcentered and had no clue about what women want in a relationship. Besides, discussing having a future together with someone you’ve known for only two weeks is what I would call, ‘jumping the gun.’

So, Barb, you aren’t being too fussy, and I don’t think you should give up dating, but I do think you need to change the places where you are trying to meet men.

You may be ‘looking for love in all the wrong places.’ Perhaps, get out locally and attend social functions and network through friends—these options might work out better. Maybe that will make senior dating easier.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. DP

Page 22

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, Dana Point Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the Dana Point Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

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STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Crouse Makes A-Ball Debut

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

F

ormer Dana Hills ace Hans Crouse was scheduled to make his anticipated short-season A debut with the Spokane Indians on Thursday, June 21.

Results of the game against the Tri-City Dust Devils in Pasco, Washington were not available at press time.

Crouse, a second-round pick of the Texas Rangers in the 2017 MLB Draft, was set to be the Opening Day starter for Spokane last Friday, June 15 in Spokane against the Boise Hawks.

Crouse, 19, warmed up in the outfield but cut a finger on his throwing hand on a seam of the baseball while throwing. The Indians chose to be cautious and scratched the right-hander from his scheduled start.

Crouse, the No. 4 prospect in the Rangers system, will be making his true minor-league debut with the Indians. After being drafted in 2017, Crouse went to play rookie ball in the Arizona League.

The hurler thrived in his 10 games with the Rangers’ rookie team with a 0.45 earned run average and 30 strikeouts.

Crouse started six games and threw 20 innings while allowing two runs on seven hits. He held opponents to a .130 batting average.

Let’s check in with other Dana Hills graduates around professional baseball:

Luke Williams, Class of 2015

Williams is in his third season of A ball in the Philadelphia Phillies system.

The third baseman played a rookie season in the Gulf Coast League after being drafted in 2015, played short-season A with the Williamsport Crosscutters in 2016, moved up to the Lakewood BlueClaws for full-season A and is currently with the Advanced-A Clearwater Threshers.

Williams has played 49 games this season and sports a .233 average with 19 RBIs and five home runs.

Former Dana Hills pitcher Hans Crouse (pictured with the Dolphins in 2017) was schedule to make his shortseason A debut on Thursday, June 21 in Washington. Photo: File

Blake Taylor, Class of 2013

Taylor has moved a bit in his six years in the minors, but he got a shot at the AAA level this season.

Taylor was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2013 and is now in the New York Mets system. He began the year with the Advanced-A St. Lucie Mets and got called up to the AAA Las Vegas 51s on May 28.

The left-hander played one game in Las Vegas where he threw six innings and al-

Dana Wharf Fish Count

sheephead and bonito and there were only two yellowtail for the trip.

Calico bass hold strong

June 20 • 7 boats, 165 anglers: 105 yellowtail, 194 calico bass, 5 sand bass, 14 sheephead, 112 rockfish, 1 sculpin, 77 white fish, 3 barracuda, 15 bonito, 15 mackarel, 2 blue perch, 460 bass released, 1 white sea bass released, 2 barracuda released

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

A

nother week brought another rise in water temperature, 67 to 68 degrees, and sunny days brought the best fishing out of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

In his weekly report, Captain Brian Woolley said the half and three-quarter day trips stayed along the coast, but the trips picked up plenty of calico bass. Flylined baits of anchovy pulled in the majority of the calico bass.

Those shorter trips saw some yellowtail along the kelp lines, but Woolley said it was mostly small ones. Bigger fish latched onto sardine lines with a few barracuda in the mix. There aren’t many big schools, but some can be found in the kelp above and below Dana Point Harbor.

On its trip to San Clemente Island, Fury found some good bottom fishing as well as strong showing of whitefish. Woolley said there was a variety of kelp bass,

Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

lowed three hits and no earned runs to pick up a victory. Taylor was sent back to St. Lucie on May 30.

Peter Maris, Class of 2011

Maris has moved up each year in the Tampa Bay Rays system since signing in 2015.

The second baseman played rookie

ball in the Appalachian League in 2015, full-season A with the Bowling Green Hot Rods in 2016, Advanced-A with the Charlotte Stone Crabs in 2017 and after starting 2018 in Charlotte, moved up to the AA Montgomery Biscuits on June 7.

In nine games with the Biscuits, Maris has hit .379 with eight RBIs and three home runs. DP

Here is the latest fish count out of Dana Wharf:

June 19 • 6 boats, 162 anglers: 1 white seabass, 108 calico bass, 8 sand bass, 2 sheephead, 1 barracuda, 13 bonito, 1 thresher shark, 770 bass released, 14 sculpin released, 27 barracuda released June 18 • 7 boats, 203 anglers: 9 yellowtail, 1 halibut, 117 calico bass, 28 sand bass, 2 sculpin, 4 sheephead, 3 whitefish, 1 barracuda, 3 bonito, 1 halibut, 9 yellowtail, 35 mackerel, 7 blue perch June 17 • 10 boats, 357 anglers: 2 yellowtail, 226 calico bass, 14 sand bass, 22 sculpin, 11 sheephead, 185 white fish, 10 rockfish, 1 barracuda, 11 bonito, 20 blue perch, 661 bass released, 14 barracuda released June 16 • 11 boats, 323 anglers: 212 calico

A kids fishing camp aboard the Clemente on Monday, June 18 was hauling in some large sea bass. Photo: Courtesy of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching

bass, 35 sand bass, 1 sculpin, 4 sheephead, 3 whitefish, 6 barracuda, 1 bonito, 1 halibut, 1 yellowtail, 1 white sea bass, 894 bass released, 8 barracuda release, 1 halibut released

Page 24

June 15 • 6 boats, 179 anglers: 264 calico bass, 20 sand bass, 5 sculpin, 1 sheephead, 1 whitefish, 1 rockfish, 875 bass released, 8 barracuda released, 1 white sea bass released DP www.danapointtimes.com

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FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyesters, or designer carpet. Showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point: 24662 Del Prado, Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available. All shapes and sizes and kinds of flooring. Call Mike at Lantern Bay Carpets, Interiors & Flooring. 949.240.1545

GARAGE SALES CASITAS DEL RIO OWNERS ASSOCIATION COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, July 21st 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Crosby Colapinto riding on the shoulders of friends as he chalks up his first-ever WSL victory in Cabo San Lucas last week. Photo: WSL

Viva San Clemente!

Local groms sweep Los Cabos Pro Junior in pumping surf

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

E

ventually, all groms grow up. It’s a sad fact of life. It doesn’t mean you have to ditch your inner grom and can’t still revel in surfing’s good times, but we all make that transition from careless youth to focused maturity. The next generation of San Clemente groms appear to be asserting themselves as they step into young adulthood.

Last week at the World Surf League’s

Los Cabos Open in San Jose Del Cabo, local surfers Crosby Colapinto and Kirra Pinkerton swept the Pro Junior division.

For Colapinto, it was his first-ever WSL win. For Pinkerton, it was her thirdstraight Pro Junior victory this season.

“It just feels so nice to finally get a final, and then to win, it is amazing,” Colapinto said.

“It feels amazing to go three-for-three,” echoed Pinkerton.

Cabo isn’t exactly known for surf of unusual size and girth, but the Los Cabos Open lucked into the first legit run of south swell of the summer and the surf was absolutely pumping throughout the contest.

“It was crazy to see these waves like this all day, it looked like Sunset (Hawaii) out there,” Colapinto said of the competition.

“I didn’t catch a lot of waves today, so I feel like I saved my energy even coming out of the semifinal. I learned it takes everything you have to win one of these events. You have to surf smart, put as much effort as

you can into one wave and never give up at any point.”

It goes without saying that young Colapinto’s been taking notes as he’s watched his older brother, Griffin, succeed the WSL’s Championship Tour. In only his first year competing at the most elite level in the world, the rookie finds himself comfortably sitting 12th in the world (tied with fellow San Clemente surfer Kolohe Andino) and well in contention for 2018 Rookie of the Year.

“I’ve been calling my brother and he’s been telling me to just wait for the best wave, get a good score, then wait again,” continued Crosby, “which worked out great getting the best wave out there and getting an 8.17 on it to start. One of my goals this year was to win a Pro Junior, so to do it here was pretty next level. I want to make it to Worlds (Junior Championship) as well and this is a good head start.”

It’s also worth noting that Crosby

GROM OF THE WEEK

State Park and Riviera, but he’s also prone to jumping into the talent pool that gets busy at T-Street.

“My favorite thing about surfing is that when I catch a wave, I feel really good,” he said. “The thing that inspires me is that I want to get better.”

Like any surfer his age, he’s got his heroes that he looks up to.

“I look up to John John Florence because he started really young, and I look up to Griffin Colapinto because he started in San Clemente and is really good at surfing,” Braden said.

Checking all of the boxes—the right outlook, the right approach and the right role models—there’s no doubt that Braden’s stoke level is high and surfing is going to take him wherever he dreams. DP

BRADEN MINNICK

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

A Braden Minnick, 9, prepares to log some time at the San Clemente Pier. Photo: Staci Shaw

Dana Point Times June 22-28, 2018

t 9 years old, Braden Minnick, a fourth-grader at Concordia Elementary School, is psyched to see what doors wave riding can open up for him in the years to come.

“I think surfing will take me around the world,” Braden said. “When I first started, I was in Costa Rica; then in San Clemente, my dad and mom started to take me out.”

These days, you may find him out at the area beach breaks. He has a special affinity for the hollow wedges around Calafia

Page 26

Colapinto wasn’t alone on the podium.

San Clemente surfers made a clean sweep of the contest, finishing first, second and third. Rising star and former national champ Kade Matson slid into second place, while Jett Schilling enjoyed his best result to date, finishing a very respectable third.

“We were all at the house together joking that we were all going to make the finals, but none of us thought it would actually happen,” Matson said. “The first few rounds I felt nervous, but by the time the semifinals were on, I was really confident. I was trying to pick off the best waves and just felt in rhythm, even though it was hard out there with a lot of waves breaking. It feels great to get back to finals since I haven’t had too many good results this year, and now I’m way more confident moving forward.”

On the women’s side, Pinkerton had to grind through some serious talent to earn her first-place trophy. Facing a stacked field of international talent in the final, she got going early in the final and found a way to edge out the competition, winning the contest by a one-point margin.

“All of those girls deserved to win, they were ripping so hard and pushed me to my limits, so it felt great to come out on top in that final,” Pinkerton said when it was all done and dusted. “It was super important to get that start and I would’ve been a lot more nervous going through the rest of that heat without it. I was so relieved when they announced that score and that helped keep me calm despite not being able to get a solid backup.

“That’s the second time I’ve won going left at a righthand pointbreak,” laughed Pinkerton after the final. “I hope this is the year I can take the North America title. It’s a good start and it’s better than I expected, now I just want to keep it going for a shot at Worlds.”

As so many parents have stammered over the years, they just grow up so fast. DP

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 67-69 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair Outlook: Southerly winds persist for Friday and this weekend, lightest in the early mornings. Surf is a blend of S swell and NW windswell and mainly around waist high (3’) with larger waves Sunday and and early next week. More South Pacific swells lining up in the longer range.

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

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