May 18, 2018

LO C A L

N EWS

May 18-24, 2018

YO U

C A N

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Dana Point AquaFest to be Held on Saturday, May 19 PAGE 5

VOLUME 11, ISSUE 20

The Blues are Back Doheny Blues returns, this year at Sea Terrace Park, where an old favorite begins anew D P L I V I N G / PAG E 1 0

This weekend, May 19 and 20, the Doheny Blues Festival returns to Dana Point. For the first time in its 20-year history, the event will be held somewhere besides Doheny State Beach. Photo: File

By-District Voting Plans Set for 2018

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

City Council Approves 2019 OCSD Contract EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

www.danapointtimes.com

Local Author Laura Steeley Announces New Book DP LIVING/PAGE 11

GO TO DANAPOINTTIMES.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

DP EYE ON DP Dana Dana Point Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point should know this week District Voting Finalized with Second Reading of Ordinance THE LATEST: During their meeting on May 15, the Dana Point City Council adopted a five-district, by district, method election system and sequence for City Council elections. The 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Debra Lewis dissenting—changes the city’s current at-large election process. A by-district election process means voters within a designated City Council electoral district elect one City Council member who must also reside in and be a registered voter of that district.

“While this has been a challenging process, we have worked extensively with our community to analyze and identify the best possible solution for the city while meeting the legal demands imposed on us by the state legislature,” Mayor Richard A. Viczorek said in a press release made by the city on May 16. “It has been our objective from the beginning to work toward keeping neighborhoods and communities of interest together.”

The change to by-district elections was required to ensure that the city did not violate the California Voting Rights Act (CVRA) which prohibits the use of an at-large election in a political subdivision if it would impair the ability of a protected class, as defined, to elect candidates of its choice or otherwise influence the outcome of an election.

WHAT’S NEXT: The map adopted by the City Council can be found on the city’s website www.danapoint.org. The filing period for City Council candidates is July 16 through Aug.10. Districts 1, 2 and 3 will be up for election on Nov. 6. Districts 4 and 5 will be up for election on Nov. 3, 2020.—Daniel Ritz

OC Parks to Raise Dana Point Harbor Slip Rates by 2.8 Percent in July THE LATEST: The Dana Point Boaters Association (DPBA) released a statement that OC Parks has informed them that Dana Point Harbor boaters will be given a 2.8 percent slip rate increase in their May Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

Boat slip costs will be raised in the Dana Point Harbor, according to the Dana Point Boaters Association. They are looking to make Dana Point boaters aware of the budget in place at Dana Point’s unique Harbor. Photo: Courtesy of Omega Events

billing; the new rates will take effect in July.

In a statement released concerning the rate increase, DPBA said they believe total marina revenue should be relative with operating costs plus a reasonable margin to reserves for future capital improvements and nothing more. Slip rates should be formulated proportionally across slip sizes to match this target, with subtle variations based on slip size supply and demand.

The county could be penalized if the Dana Point Harbor generates too much revenue.

WHAT’S NEXT: DPBA’s statement said the challenge with a market study of slip rates is accurately identifying Dana Point Harbor’s market. The Harbor is a publicly-owned municipal harbor that must operate effectively as a nonprofit organization.

“We should not be compared to small for-profit private marinas in Newport Beach that charge two to three times (or more) for comparable slips,” DPBA said.

“However, as you can see in the harbor’s latest market study (performed by Dana Point Marina Company), we are compared to just about every marina from Santa Barbara to San Diego, including a few exclusive and very expensive for-prof-

it private marinas. Further, the denominator used to calculate the average slip price is the number of marinas, not total number of slips. That means Long Beach Harbor, with approximately 4,500 slips is weighted the same as Bayside Marina in Newport Beach with 101 slips, driving the average slip rate artificially high. A more accurate market study would identify the average per slip rate of municipal Southern California marinas; this would demonstrate that Dana Point Harbor slip rates are about 11 percent higher than average. This latest market study was performed by Dana Point Marina Company, which profits from higher slip rates; this disqualifies them as a neutral party.”—DR

Dana Point Approves 2019 Orange County Sheriff’s Department Contract THE LATEST: On May 15, City Council approved the Law Enforcement Services Agreement with the County of Orange for law enforcement for 2019.

The proposed fiscal year 2018-19 Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) contract is $12,671,000, an increase of $598,000, or five percent over the 2017-2018 contract of $12,073,000.

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The increase is due primarily to costs for salaries, $117,000, and benefits, $261,000, annual leave cash outs, $85,000, training, $78,000, and department overhead, $69,000.

The vote passed 3-2, with Councilmembers Debra Lewis and Paul Wyatt dissenting.

“I’m not for any reduction of services in any way,” Councilmember Joe Muller said, citing rising homelessness as an example for continuing OCSD services in full.

“I’m not either, but the budget has to line up or we’re going to face some hard questions in the future,” responded Councilmember Wyatt.

The Police Services contract alone accounts for over 36.6 percent of the city’s adopted 2019 General Fund operating budget, up from 35 percent in fiscal year 2018. The OCSD contract includes 41 direct report OCSD staff dedicated to Dana Point, including 34 full-time sworn positions, five non-sworn community service officers, a crime prevention specialist and an investigative assistant, along with one part-time extra help position.

Mayor Pro Tem Joe Muller and Mayor Richard Viczorek questioned what waiting to approve the contract would have practically done.

An OCSD representative responded, saying that the only true “negotiation” (Cont. on page 4) www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP (Cont. from page 3) would be the reduction of services.

“Costs are what they are,” OCSD said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Councilmember Wyatt emphasized that he wanted county supervisors, who are ultimately responsible for law enforcement contracting, to understand that escalating costs are a concern in Dana Point.

“I won’t accept this false choice of ‘pay what I ask’ or reduced services,” Councilmember Lewis said during the meeting. Lewis reasoned that as the proposed contract would not begin until July 1, there was plenty of time to wait and include information from a study being conducted by more than a dozen South Orange County cities.

Currently, 13 South Orange County cities are under a comprehensive study initiated by Mission Viejo, studying the value of OCSD services. A link to the full contract can be seen on www.danapointtimes.com. —DR

City Council Holds Budget Workshop; Discusses Long-Term Plans, Fees, Subsidies THE LATEST: During their meeting on May 15, City Council held a budget workshop where they reviewed two ongoing projects. They first reviewed formal city financial policies concerning long-term financial planning, operating budget, reserves, infrastructure asset management

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

San Juan Capistrano Councilmember Patterson Meets President, Discusses Sanctuary State Law San Juan Capistrano City Councilmember Pam Patterson met with President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss the California Sanctuary State Law (Senate Bill 54), at around noon on Wednesday, May 16.

Patterson was invited to the White House along with some 15 other Southern California representatives who oppose SB 54. On April 3, San Juan Capistrano City Council passed a resolution condemning SB 54, 4-1, as a state law that “severely inhibits” law enforcement and brings a “threat” to public safety. SB 54 has been in effect since Jan. 1 and essentially gives state and local law enforcement agencies discretion in whether to use money or personnel to investigate, interrogate, detain or arrest persons for immigrant enforcement purposes. “(SB 54) cripples our law enforcement and creates a threat to public safety,” PatDana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

and facilities asset management. Secondly, the Council reviewed and made suggestions to city staff concerning a previously approved decision to establish full cost recovery for some mandatory fees. In January, City Council adopted the first ever User Fee Subsidy Policy.

“Fees should be set such that no subsidy is provided unless City Council determines there is a benefit to the greater public that goes beyond the benefit provided to the individual receiving the service,” a staff report said. “Stated differently, the policy establishes a practice of timely evaluation of fees, and resultant adjustments, such that full cost recovery is achieved unless a specific service is subsidized by the city’s general taxes.”

Mayor Richard Viczorek and Mayor Pro Tem Joe Muller both voiced their disapproval of this policy, but acknowledged that it was already passed and that they were moving forward.

Muller proposed a five-year timeline for unrolling new fees in order to study appropriate fee and subsidy rates.

Councilmember Debra Lewis opposed, saying that the policy called for immediate 100 percent fee recovery.

“It would be an insult to our planning and building commissions to not support their hard work (by implementing this policy immediately),” said Councilmember Paul Wyatt.

Councilmember John Tomlinson, who initially proposed a middle-ground of the unrolling of new fees over three years, asked Assistant City Manager Mike Killebrew for his thoughts. Killebrew is largely responsible for the city’s financial

maintenance.

“My opinion,” Killebrew said, “is to act at the suggestion of the Council.”

The vote to unroll the fees, some of which will increase more than 100 percent over three years, passed 3-2 with Councilmembers Wyatt and Lewis dissenting.

THE LATEST: Although this isn’t the be-all, end-all piece of legislation that would ensure spent nuclear fuel could be moved to another location other than San Onofre, it’s a major step in the process.

On May 10, the U.S. Congress passed a bill that would reestablish Yucca Mountain as a nuclear waste holding facility and allow for licensing to take place, create a program for temporary storage of the fuel and holds the Department of Energy accountable for such actions, as it is the federal branch responsible for all spent nuclear fuel.

The bill, H.R. 3053, was championed by Republican Rep. John Shimkus, IL-15, and co-sponsored by San Clemente’s Republican Congressman, Rep. Darrell Issa, CA-49.

WHAT’S NEXT: The bill would also give the secretary of the DOE the ability to prioritize facilities that currently house the fuel or construct a new site if it’s financially prudent.

This is not a decision likely to sit well with Nevada. It was then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Democrat, who pushed for the closure of the site in 2010 after it was de-funded by the Legislature.

A concession buried in the new bill’s text is that the secretary of the DOE needs to find a way to avoid transporting the spent nuclear waste through Las Vegas to Yucca Mountain.

The incident of faulty steam generators didn’t take place at SONGS until 2012 and the power plant wasn’t announced closed until 2013.

The bill’s vote, which passed with 340 representatives in favor and 72 against, included all three representatives (two Democrats and one Republican) from Nevada voting no.

The bill will have to be scrutinized by a Republican-heavy Senate that has pushed for storage of spent nuclear fuel since President Donald Trump took office and put a $120 million price tag on finding solutions for storing the fuel. —Eric Heinz

terson said at the April 3 meeting.

At the roundtable meeting with Trump, nearby leaders in addition to Patterson included Laguna Niguel Mayor Elaine Gennaway, Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steele and San Diego County Supervisor Kristin Gasper, who is also running in San Juan’s 49th congressional race. Representatives had an opportunity to speak with Trump about their stance on SB 54. San Juan Capistrano City Council’s resolution was symbolic in condemning SB 54, but other government entities that oppose the bill, including the OC Board of Supervisors, voted to join the lawsuit filed

by U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions last month against SB 54, arguing that California has “no authority to enforce laws that obstruct or otherwise conflict with, or discriminate against, federal immigration enforcement efforts,” the lawsuit from Sessions reads.

Patterson was on the Community Engagement Panel (CEP) from 2015-2017, which is a panel of local leaders, nuclear experts, entities adjacent or near the power plant that was formed in an effort to educate people about the decommissioning of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS); it is not a policy-making

body. Patterson cited concerns of the openness of the Mexico-California border and its proximity (of about 70 miles) to the decommissioned power plant. “…(B)ack in 2001, they were testifying before Congress that the terrorists were saying ‘target the power plants,’” Patterson said to Trump at the May 16 meeting.

“So, the fact that we have this unsecured border is putting us at great risk because we know that terrorists are coming in.”

Patterson also said to Trump that SONGS has “no” security and is a Fukushima “waiting to happen.”

“It doesn’t sound too good,” Trump said after saying that he would look into it.

To watch the video of the round-table discussion, go to www.danapointtimes.com.

San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sergio Farias, the only dissenting vote against the city’s resolution to condemn SB 54, said that he thinks someone at the White House was incorrect in naming the resolution passed on April 3 as Patterson’s, because although Patterson brought the issue forth to the Council, it was Councilmember Derek Reeve who amended the resolution as the one that passed, whereas Pattersons’s, as was, failed.

Farias, who is now on the CEP, also

criticized Patterson’s statement to Trump that SONGS is the most unsecured power plant in the nation, saying it was factually incorrect. He also criticized her for characterizing immigrants as terrorists.

“I’m guessing she meant immigrants coming through the southern border; they both (Trump and Patterson) characterized them as being terrorists–which is untrue,” Farias said, noting that more than 5,000 San Juan Capistrano residents are nonU.S. citizens.

“Also, as a representative on the (CEP), I have to object to her characterization of the security of San Onofre,” Farias said, adding that he believes highlighting SONGS as unsecured to the nation makes the location inherently more at risk. “I think at that moment, (Trump) cut the conversation.”

In regard to SB 54, Farias said, “I think its a divisive topic. I think people, regardless of their legal status, are invested in the community they live in; I think that we shouldn’t ignore them or consider them foreign. We should consider them as a part of their community.”

Pam Patterson was not immediately available for comment after the White House meeting. —Emily Rasmussen

WHAT’S NEXT: City Manager Mark Denny said with the Council’s suggestion, city staff will return with a more complete timeline at the June 19 meeting. A list of the complete fees and subsidies can be seen on www.danapointtimes.com. —DR

New Yucca Mountain Nuclear Storage Bill Passes House

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Issa has another bill that is of his own design that would amend Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 (NWPA) to allow for temporary storage until the federal government finds or establishes a permanent repository.

As of today, spent nuclear fuel cannot be stored in temporary locations due to provisions in the NWPA.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

The Habit Burger Celebrates National Burger Month with Fundraiser for Military Programs America’s favorite food, the always fashionable burger, takes center stage this month as the Habit Burger Grill celebrates “National Burger Month” and supports veterans. During the month of May, for every Guacamole Crunch Charburger sold, The Habit will donate 25 cents to be split between two important veterans charities, Bob Hope USO and the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP).

Bob Hope USO works to connect America’s military service members to family, home and country throughout their service with welcome centers at Southern California Airports and dozens of military installations. Each year, Bob Hope USO provides direct service to more than 250,000 members of the military and their families.

Since 2003, WWP has been a tireless advocate for our nation’s finest, improving the lives of over half a million warriors and their families with free programs and services.

Connect with The Habit Burger Grill on social media at www.facebook.com/ habitburger, or on www.instagram.com/ habitburgergrill.

6th Annual AquaFest to Take Place on May 19 The Dana Point Aquatic Foundation & Westwind Sailing are hosting their 6th Annual AquaFest on Saturday, May 19 to celebrate “National Safe Boating Week” and to showcase the public access boating, recreation and community programs offered at the OC Sailing & Events Center.

AquaFest includes free lunch, free snow cones, free goodie bags, free lifejackets, free sail rides, free SUP & kayak clinics, free SUP race exhibition, free Jazzercise, music and more.

Westwind Sailing, Mariner Ship 936, Jazzercise, Saddleback College MST, I Heart Yoga in the Park, Performance Paddling and SOAR will be there with booths sharing their family friendly practices.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Dana Point Aquatic Foundation for the 6th annual AquaFest,” Westwind Sailing founder Diane Wenzel said. “The celebration is held to promote National Safe Boating Week, and we hope ocean lovers of all ages come down to Baby Beach in Dana Point Harbor for a day of free goodies, educational opportunities, and fun in the sun!”

For a full schedule of AquaFest events, visit www.westwindsailing.com/aquafest .

Baby Beach, Dana Point Harbor.

Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

SATURDAY, MAY 19

Free sailing is one of the many opportunities available during AquaFest at Baby Beach in the Dana Point Harbor on Saturday, May 19. Photo: Courtesy

City of Dana Point Recognized for Excellence in Financial Reporting on May 15

by this organization for the past 29 years in a row. We view this recognition as further demonstration of how dedicated our team is to full reporting in the highest and best possible manner.”

The City of Dana Point announced it received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the year ending June 30, 2017 by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada.

This certificate from GFOA is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment. This year marks the 29th year of continued recognition for the City of Dana Point.

“We have proactively pursued this achievement because we are committed to providing full disclosure to clearly communicate our City’s financial story,” said Mark Denny, city manager of Dana Point.

“Government accounting rules are complex and extensive. This well-deserved recognition highlights the expertise of our staff’s financial management and its commitment to go above and beyond to implement these rigorous national standards to the greatest benefit of our community.”

GFOA represents public finance officials throughout the United States and Canada. Its mission is to promote excellence in state and local government financial management. The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program to encourage and assist state and local governments to go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles to prepare comprehensive annual financial reports that evidence the spirit of transparency and full disclosure and then to recognize individual governments that succeed in achieving that goal.

“This association provides a benchmark for best practices on accounting standards,” added Dana Point Mayor Richard A. Viczorek. “The City has been honored

La Pata Extension Complete Orange County Public Works announced that after four years of construction, the Avenida La Pata Extension Project is complete. This was the largest roadway project in the department’s history, according to a press release. Newly completed lanes as part of the project’s widening phase were opened for public use on April 26, with crews continuing to perform minor cleanup activities over the coming weeks.

OC Public Works and its contractor, Sukut Construction, began construction of the project’s first phase, the 2.27-mile “gap connector” in April 2014, where crews excavated and relocated approximately 900,000 cubic yards of refuse within the county’s Prima Deshecha Landfill and moved approximately 14.8 million cubic yards of soil.

That connection was completed in August 2016, providing a direct route between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch and other neighboring communities.

The $136 million project was funded through a combination of funding sources from Rancho Mission Viejo, Communities Facilities Districts, State Measure M and Proposition 1B Funds, the La Pata Road Fee Program, OC Waste & Recycling, County Road Fund (State gas tax allocation) and utility reimbursements. The Orange County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted in December 2013 to authorize the construction of all three phases for the Avenida La Pata Extension Project.

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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GREAT STRIDES - CYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATION 9:30 a.m. Sign up to walk in Great Strides and take steps toward a cure for cystic fibrosis. The 5K walk starts at the Ocean Institute. Ocean Institute 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr. www.fightcf.cff.org.

FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m. There will be fresh produce and treats for sale at the farmers’ market. La Plaza Park. 34111 La Plaza.

949.279.3122.

TUESDAY, MAY 22

DANA HARBOR TOASTMASTERS 7-8:30 a.m. Join the members of the Dana Harbor Toastmasters every Tuesday to improve speaking and leadership skills. Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., Capistrano Beach. www.1707.toastmastersclubs.org.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23

OCEAN WATER QUALITY SUBCOMMITTEE MEETING 5 p.m. The Ocean Water Quality Subcommittee will hold a regularly scheduled meeting at City Hall in the Public Works Conference Room. 33282 Golden Lantern, Ste. 212. www.danapoint.org.

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, MAY 24

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

GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

Prosperity Keeps You Healthy

I

t’s relatively well established that physical health and mental wellbeing are closely tied together, with estimates that as many as half the ailments we suffer from are caused by what the doctors call psychosomatic (www.apa. org). What’s less understood is that a main cause of mental anguish is money—a lack of it. Isn’t it reasonable to expect that bill

collectors beating on the door may cause headaches and God knows what else?

Just as physical and mental well-being don’t come without working at it, the same is true for financial health. If your MasterCard borrowing always approaches the credit limit, so you have to pay massive interest charges when paying just the minimum payment, you’re inviting a case of ulcers. If you want to sport the latest model STRAIGHT TALK BMW on a budget that

By Al Jacobs deserves nothing more expensive than a 2012 Toyota Corolla, plan to have a lot of stress with all the symptoms that go with it.

If you want to keep your step brisk and your smile broad, then I suggest following these four rules:

• Don’t buy anything by credit card that you can’t pay in full at month’s end. This way you pay no interest.

• Don’t get stuff you don’t need. Your best financial advisor is the face you see each morning in the bathroom mirror.

• Own our only vehicles outright, with no borrowing of any sort.

• Don’t go into hock to finance the education of your children. They’ll get their schooling on the cheap.

Al Jacobs, a professional investor for nearly a half-century, issues weekly financial articles in which he shares his financial knowledge and experience. You may view it on www.roadwaytoprosperity.com. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, 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

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 DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Letters to the Editor GOVERNOR SHORTCHANGING LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS PATRICIA BATES, Laguna Niguel, State Senator, 36th District

In November 2016, California’s voters approved Proposition 51, a $7 billion bond measure to fund school construction. But so far, only $600 million in school bonds have been sold, and Governor Jerry Brown’s budget for this year proposes only slightly higher bond sales, even though the Coalition for Adequate School Housing has identified $3 billion in shovelready classroom construction projects.

New school facilities and classroom repairs are desperately needed all over the state, and South Orange County is no exception. Putting Prop. 51 funds to work now would fund nearly $74 million of school construction projects in the Senate district I represent, benefiting students attending Capistrano Unified and Saddleback Valley Unified schools.

Besides repairing and replacing dilapidated school facilities, Prop. 51 funds can also be spent for new projects to improve education, including building laboratories and specialized facilities for Career Technical Education facilities. These facilities are critically needed to improve our state’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs, giving our kids a chance to compete in the global marketplace.

Despite this backlog of need, the Governor’s January budget proposal only funds school construction projects which were submitted before 2014. This means that every project submitted since 2014 will not Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

even be considered until fall 2019. That is a five-year delay.

Now is the time to get moving. Interest rates are still low (though starting to creep upward), meaning the sooner money is dedicated to school construction projects, the more money will be available in future years for education spending. Let us not forget that school construction projects also create solid paying jobs right where the work is being done.

“

If California’s state government can raise taxes and spend billions on distant horizon projects like high-speed rail, we can certainly invest in projects that will benefit local communities for a long time.

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SQUIRRELS INFEST PALISADES AUBREY BEAUCHAMP, Capistrano Beach

Squirrels have not only overpopulated Pines Park, they have enlarged their territory. I live on the Palisades far from Pines Park yet squirrels have invaded our neighborhood for months, especially in the pine trees. Half eaten pinecones are everywhere. They are also in palm trees, on roofs, walk across the road and generally are a menace. They drink from my hummingbird feeder in my jacaranda tree, eat from the bird feeder and scare the nesting bluebirds in their box.

I have called vector control and was told I am on my own because squirrels are not an endangered species. I bought some squirrel poison pellets. They ate it and are still alive. I called professional squirrel pest control companies. Their charges are through the roof with no guarantee.

Squirrels are fun to watch but they carry diseases, they multiply and ruin the pinecones in our beautiful trees. I know that people love to feed them and this may be part of the problem. However, in the many years I have lived here I have never seen squirrels in our street and backyards.

Now, it seems they are everywhere and unless some measures are taken, they will only increase in numbers.

If California’s state government can raise taxes and spend billions on distant horizon projects like high-speed rail, we can certainly invest in projects that will benefit local communities for a long time.

California’s students and their parents deserve better. As the Governor and the Legislature work to enact a 2018-19 budget

by June 15, I will fight to make sure that promises made are promises kept.

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

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 20. 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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In honor of our 10th Anniversary, the Dana Point Times is proud to present...

10 Weeks of Giveaways!

Here’s the scoop…

Just send us an email describing why you LOVE the DP Times.

We will select a winner each week for 10 weeks!

Send your love-filled email to: contest@danapointtimes.com and tell us why you LOVE the DP Times. Include your name and phone number. Winners will be featured in the paper and on our social media accounts from 03/16 – 05/18.

Our next prize package includes: • Whale Watching for two adults with Dana Wharf Whale Watching ($90 value).

• Custom DP Times tumbler with 10 free coffee fills from The Coffee Importers • Plush DP Times beach towel

Congratulations to our final winner Diane Boquet!

Pattie took home whale watching for two adults with Dana Wharf Whale Watching ($90 value), a DP Times tumbler and beach towel, and 10 free coffee refills from The Coffee Importers.

I just finished reading this week’s DP Times, and I have already “passed on the article about finding the right yoga teacher to my yoga teacher who happens to be perfect for me! The reverse side of that article had something I wanted to share with my son and daughter in law, so needed to make a copy of “Workplace Wellness” for them.

I have been in the area for 42 years and I crave knowledge of what’s going on in my community. I especially enjoy the concise articles in the “Eye on DP” and “News Bites.” We are Coach House fans, so appreciate the weekly listing. I also notice that your ads are all local businesses or events. What a great way to support the community.

Thanks, DP Times, for providing us with the perfect local paper.

”

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

and rehabilitation of the San Clemente Pier, will host the fundraiser “Uncork your Pride.” The Cellar is located at 156 Avenida del Mar, San Clemente. Tickets are $50 and include a complimentary glass of wine, a PierPride wine glass and a raffle ticket for great prizes. Purchase tickets at www.pierpride.org or call 949.545.8970.

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

Tuesday | 22

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.

TIDEPOOL HIKE 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Explore the world between tides during the Ocean Institute’s 1.5-hour tidepool hike led by one of the expert naturalists. Advanced registration is required; space is limited. $10 per person.

For more information, visit www.oceaninstitute.org. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point.

Friday | 18 ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching.

34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Saturday | 19 MOVIE: ‘CHURCH OF THE OPEN SKY’ 6 p.m. A free-surfing performance, a screening of Church of the Open Sky will take place displying incredible feats. Dave “Rasta” Rastovich is one of the performers who makes crazy look easy. There will be food, music, a raffle, a silent auction and a great surf flick. The event is also a fundraiser for Tom Morey Sport of Kings.

Basham’s Factory & Surfshop, 213 Calle de Los Molinos, San Clemente. 949.361.2203. www.sportofkingsfoundation.org.

AMAZING ANIMALS WITH INSIDE THE OUTDOORS 11 a.m. Have you seen the television commercial featuring Apollo the red-tailed hawk? Come to this event and meet him in person! Live animals are presented to you and your children by a trained traveling scientist from Inside the Outdoors.

Learn about the unique characteristics and behaviors of mammals, birds of prey, reptiles, birds and other species of the animal kingdom. Your tickets come with Ocean Institute admission all day long. Learn about terrestrial and ocean animals up close and personal. $15 per person. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. www. oceaninstitute.org.

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Live music from rotating bands at the Swallow’s Inn. Burgers and wings from Lisa’s Kitchen also are available. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

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 Hwy., Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Wednesday | 23

EDITOR’S PICK This year, the Doheny Blues Festival returns to Dana Point, but at Sea Terrace Park. George Thorogood, Blues Traveler and Buddy Guy headline this year’s event. Photo: Courtesy

SATURDAY, MAY 19 & SUNDAY, MAY 20: DANA POINT’S DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL AT SEA TERRACE PARK 10 a.m. The Doheny Blues Festival is a two-day music event at Sea Terrace Park. More than 20 artists will perform including Jimmie Vaughan, George Thorogood and the Destroyers, Larkin Poe and more. Tickets range from $140-$475. Sea Terrace Park. 33410 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point. www.dohenybluesfestival.com.

Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www. swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 20 A WALK THROUGH HISTORY 9-11 a.m. The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center is putting on an educational walk through the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Park focusing on local Dana Point History. Participation is free. 34558 Scenic Dr., Dana Point. 949.248.3527. www.danapoint.org.

ST. EDWARDS PARISH FIESTA 12-8 p.m. St. Edwards the Confessor Catholic Church is hosting their annual fiesta. Families are welcome for a weekend of carnival rides, food, drink, live entertainment and more. Admission is free. St. Edwards the Confessor.

33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point.

949.496.1307. www.stedwardfiesta.org.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE: THE CHAIRMAN AND THE BOARD 7 p.m. The Chairman and The Board, the Rat Pack tribute from Las Vegas, is a classic reenactment of the peerless iconic pop performers Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. as the performed together in the 1960s. The 90-minute show captures the essence of the chemistry, music and spirit of the times. Admission is $20 and the doors open at 5 p.m. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

Monday | 21 UNCORK YOUR PRIDE 5:30-8 p.m. PierPride, the nonprofit organization that raises money for maintenance Page 8

PICKLEBALL DEMONSTRATION 4 p.m. A demonstration will be given by the USA Pickleball Association. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. 949.498.3322. www.san-clemente.org.

Thursday | 24 DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES: DR. CHRIS LOWE 6-8 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute in the Samueli Conference Center for The Nicholas Endowment Distinguished Speaker Series with Dr. Chris Lowe. Learn how advances in technology and robotics are shaping what we know about sharks and fish off our coast. $10 per person; free to Ocean Institute members. Register at www.oceaninstitute.org. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE COACH HOUSE: THE POSIES 8 p.m. The Posies, with 30 years of playing classic alternative/indie anthems such as “Dream All Day,” “Solar Sister,” “Coming Right Along,” and more, is coming to The Coach House. Terra Lightfoot, an alternative rock performance, and Michael Ubaldini, will be opening for The Posies. Admission is $20 and the doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com. www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

At the Movies: ‘Disobedience’ Obeys Keys to Successful Filmmaking

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

B

y now, we can easily say samesex romances can find success in commercial film. It’s been 13 years since Brokeback Mountain became a smash with two of the biggest heartthrobs in Hollywood playing lovers. It’s been 30 years since My Beautiful Launderette and Maurice.

Bound (1996), Blue is the Warmest Color (2013) and Carol (2015) are a few successful lesbian tales. Call Me By Your Name was a big hit last Oscar season. Now, Sebastián Lelio releases his adaptation of Naomi Alderman’s Disobedience.

Ronit Krushka (Rachel Weisz) returns to her family’s neighborhood in a strict, traditional Jewish community in Hendon, England when her father, the local rabbi, suddenly dies. She’s spent the past few years in New York as a photographer after being shunned out of the community

for a past lesbian affair. Now, Ronit’s back to discover that her cousin and father’s successor, Dovid (Alessandro Nivola) is married to her ex, Esti (Rachel McAdams).

So what does Disobedience bring to the oppressed lesbian theme that so many indie movies haven’t already?

Well, the Jewish setting is pretty interesting and unique, instead of the Christian background we’ve seen in fiction before. The tormented romance itself isn’t really anything new or groundbreaking. Lelio, who also recently had success with A Fantastic Woman (2017) as a LGBTQ film, directs the film as a typical melodrama.

This mostly reflects in the performances, particularly by Weisz who spends the whole film with a frown on her face. Fortunately, Disobedience does have a semi-happy ending in a subgenre where tragic conclusions have become cliché. DP

Photo: Bleeker Street

DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Swedish native Greger Andersson of Knock-Out Greg & the Jukes will return to Dana Point as the Doheny Blues Festival takes place on May 19 and 20 at Sea Terrace Park. Photo: Courtesy of Greger Andersson

The Blues are Back Doheny Blues returns, this year at Sea Terrace Park, where an old favorite begins anew

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

B

lues fans across the world will notice one unmistakable change to this year’s Doheny Blues Festival, taking place this weekend, on May 19 and 20.

The festival isn’t at Doheny State Beach.

This year, the music festival will take place at Sea Terrace Park in Dana Point.

Summer concerts commonly take up portions of the park, but for this event, the entirety of the park will be available.

Rich Sherman, the president of Omega Events, has been at the helm for all 20 years of the Doheny Blues Festival. He believes Sea Terrace Park allows for improvements to the two-day concert experience.

“Sea Terrace Park is such a scenic venue,” Sherman said. “Many locals are used to attending the Summer Concert Series at Sea Terrace Park, but only half of the park is utilized for the series, whereas we are opening the entire park for the blues festival. Those coming from out of town will be pleasantly surprised about this city park—it’s gorgeous.”

This year’s Doheny Blues Festival lineup includes icons such as George Thorogood, Beth Hart, Eric Burdon and the Animals, Blues Traveler and Buddy Guy. “I just love Buddy Guy, he is such an icon of blues music that it’s hard to overstate his importance to an event like ours,” Sherman said of the headlining act on Sunday.

“The entire lineup is strong. Plus, we have a couple of newer acts that are super exciting like the California Honeydrops and Larkin Poe, I know both of those shows will be super energetic,” Sherman said.

“When we prepared for last year’s 20th

Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

anniversary, I had time to reflect on two decades of memories — and there were many. The first time B.B. King played the event was in 2002 and he shared the stage with Little Richard and Bo Diddley, that was legendary. Of course Bonnie Raitt was sublime, the Black Crowes were a huge hit and even some of the unknown foreign bands who fly into Dana Point and steal the show. Too many to mention.”

One such band, Knockout Greg & Blue Weather, flew all the way from Sweden in 2001. Greger Andersson, guitarist and founder, returns this year with his band Knock-Out Greg & the Jukes.

The 2001 Doheny Blues Festival was Andersson’s first concert in the United States. He said that it has instilled him with a sense of confidence that isn’t easily accessible for foreign blues artists.

“Coming up, we had our doubts about the whole thing, it was hard to have the confidence over there (in the U.S.),” Andersson said.

Andersson said after 20 years, taking part in the festival again is a powerful moment of recognition for him.

“To be received by that audience was so empowering (in 2001) and I’m looking forward to coming back and being a part of this again,” Andersson said.

In addition to being a staple for the artists, Sherman also said the Doheny Blues tradition is a favorite amongst residents and businesses alike.

“Dana Point is synonymous with music events and festivals, and we are proud to have kicked things off some 20 years ago. We hear all the time from residents and businesses how thankful they are to live in Dana Point and have these incredible musicians come to town, so we look forward to many more years of keeping the entertainment coming.”

Invented in the deep American south in the late 19th century, for many, blues music remains relevant as it conjures memories of a by-gone era. As demonstrated by these changes, this weekend’s festival looks to celebrate this classic music by staying modern.

Tickets are available online for the Doheny Blues Festival at www.dohenybluesfestival.com. DP Page 10

LOCALS ONLY

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DP LIVING

Photo: Courtesy Orange County Archives

FROM THE ARCHIVES This aerial photograph, taken in October 1965, shows waves washing over the reefs known as Killer Dana, outside of the Dana Point headlands.

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.

‘A Cat Never Tells’ is local artist and author Laura Seeley’s latest book. It is her first foray into non-children book formats. Photo: Courtesy

‘A Cat Never Tells’ Local author and artist Laura Seeley makes foray into new style with an old favorite

BY DANIEL RITZ, DANA POINT TIMES

T

hey say you may not be able to teach an old dog new tricks, but that says nothing of a cat’s ability to evolve.

Multi-book author and local artist Laura Seeley recently announced the release of her latest work, her first foray into non-children book writing, titled “A Cat Never Tells.”

The book, told in lyrical verse and in the first and second person, intends to inspire emotion in celebration of the love a human has for their pet. The book’s main character, a black cat, has been the central character in a number of Seeley’s previously published works, mainly picture books.

In addition to the art in “A Cat Never Tells,” which is all done by Seeley, she said she enjoyed the process of writing her first book for adults.

Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

“Telling a story through written words (especially verse) and images is my favorite way to communicate.” Seeley said.

“It’s joyful, and joyful to see others enjoy it, too.”

“With the most beautiful artwork and perceptive words, Laura Seeley captures the sentiment of both human and cat. ‘A Cat Never Tells’ touched deep emotions for me as I savored each lovely page.

Anyone who has ever loved a cat must read this book,” said Roeann Fulkerson, director of the International Cat Association, in a review of the book.

At 80 pages, the book features a comprehensive storyline that hits close to home with Seeley.

“I now have indoor cats only, but in years past, I experienced the sorrow of a cat disappearing, although thankfully, my cat came back,” Seeley says in a summary on her website. “After all those days during which I worried and aged at a furious rate, she just showed up one day. But do you think she told me where she’d been all those long days? Hence the book’s title.”

“A Cat Never Tells” was for sale at a discounted price until May 16 through Seeley’s Kickstarter website where pledges were eligible for a number of rewards for their support. The book can now be purchased at Seeley’s art studio, “Best Friends Gallery,” located at 24682 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point. 415.310.9605. www.bestfriendsgallery.com. DP

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

Last week’s solution:

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

See the solution in next week’s issue.

Pet of the Week: Bean DANA POINT TIMES

B

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

Page 11

ean is a 9-year-old pug who is just as sweet as they come. She is very affectionate and loves a good belly rub. While she gets along just fine with dogs during playtime, Bean would prefer to be the only dog in the home so she doesn’t have to share attention.

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

DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Growing Gains Dana Hills baseball’s improving young group earns experience going into Division 1 playoffs

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

N

o matter which way you slice it, any draw in the CIF-SS Division 1 baseball playoffs is a tough draw.

But Dana Hills definitely got one of the tougher ones.

The Dolphins square off with defending Division 1 champion El Toro in the first round on Friday and are likely to face one of the top pitchers in Southern California, Erik Tolman.

No matter what result happens at El Toro High School, the 2018 season is a win for Dana Hills.

In the game itself, the Dolphins either pull off the surprising upset or fall to a likely superior team. In the season overall, the gains are immeasurable.

Dana Hills came into the season with sizeable losses.

Stud pitcher Hans Crouse graduated and was drafted by the Texas Rangers.

The far and away RBI leader, Joe DeBaca, also graduated. Without Crouse, the pitching staff became in flux with injuries and others leaving the team. Dana Hills was without five of its projected top six pitchers going into the season.

But here are the Dolphins in the first

Dolphin Report

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

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

Track Sends Eight Entries to CIF-SS Finals The Dana Hills boys and girls track teams each qualified four entries at the CIF-SS Division 1 preliminaries on Saturday, May 12 at Trabuco Hills High School.

CIF-SS Finals are on Saturday, May 19 Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

Sophomore Dante Jackson is part of a young group of Dolphins that have taken on key roles and shown great promise. Jackson threw for a 1.99 ERA and a 6-2 record as a starting pitcher. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

round of the Division 1 playoffs with the same win total (17) and league placing (second) as a year ago. Dana Hills captured the prestigious Ryan Lemmon Tournament with a midseason offensive surge. Youth has stepped up and earned valuable experience for the road ahead.

Junior Zach Waters, MVP of the Ryan Lemmon Tournament, more than doubled his RBI total from a year ago with 23 and co-leads the team in extra-base hits (eight) and home runs (two). Sophomore Thomas Buckanavage is the other extrabase hits and home runs leader and is

second in RBIs. Junior Logan Gallina, sophomores Ethan Ezor and Ryan Lewis and freshman C.J. Zwahlen have also been big offensive contributors.

Gallina at catcher and Zwahlen at first base have also led the defensive fielding efforts for Dana Hills. Ezor at second and Waters at shortstop have shored up the middle of the defense.

Sophomore Dante Jackson has been a horse on the mound for the Dolphins with a 1.99 ERA and a 6-2 record.

Zwahlen, Lewis, sophomore Chase Wal-

at El Camino College in Torrance.

Both girls relay teams qualified. Senior Jacqueline Faris, juniors Hailey Ray and Ximena Bustos and sophomore Anisa Rind won their 4x100-meter relay heat at 47.73 seconds to advance. Rind, Ray, Bustos and sophomore Mia Lawrence got through in the 4x400-meter relay.

Ray also qualified in the 300-meter hurdles, and senior Rosie Ballo finished second in the discus at 130 feet, four inches to qualify.

On the boys side, senior Max McKhann also took second in the discus to qualify with a throw of 173 feet even.

The 4x400-meter relay advanced with a team of seniors Caden Denker and Josh Dowdy, junior Nathan Fatigate and sophomore Jordan Vuong.

Dowdy also qualified in the 800-meter, and senior Jack Landgraf advanced in the 3,200-meter.

Kao, Relay Teams Post All-America Marks USC-bound senior Owen Kao posted two individual automatic All-America times and contributed on two automatic All-America relay times at the CIF-SS Division 1 swimming finals on Saturday, May 12 at Riverside Aquatics Complex.

Kao took third in the 200-yard freestyle for an All-America 1:38.25 and second in the 500-yard freestyle for an All-America 4:28.66.

In the 400-yard freestyle relay, Kao, seniors Jake Ward and Zachary Shenkin and sophomore Ryan Abdollahi took third place with an All-America time of 3:05.09.

In the 200-yard freestyle relay, Kao, Ward, Shenkin and junior Matthew Querner posted an All-America time of 1:24.68 for seventh place in a fast race.

Page 12

ter and junior Chase Hill have done their share on the hill.

That’s not to say the seniors of this Dana Hills group haven’t been instrumental.

Shane Ferrari has been offensive leader with 13 RBIs and seven extra-base hits.

Corey Cisowski has been an overall leader with 11 runs scored and an 0.69 ERA in 10 relief appearances.

On the whole, Dana Hills was looking to reload and did so quickly. The battles fought and lost in 2018 could turn into wins in 2019 as the young Dolphins continue to grow. DP

Ward qualified for state in the 50-yard freestyle, and Abdollahi also qualified with an All-America consideration time in the 200-yard individual medley. Shenkin hit state consideration times in the 200-yard freestyle and 100-yard butterfly.

The Dana Hills girls posted five state consideration marks in the meet.

Softball Opens in Division 1 Playoffs Dana Hills faltered in its season finale to finish second in the Sea View League.

The Dolphins still qualified for the playoffs but earned a tough draw in the CIF-SS Division 1 first round with a road game at Trinity League champion Orange Lutheran on May 17.

Results were not available at press time.

For results, check our Twitter, @SouthOCSports, or online at www.cifss.org. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR RENT STEPS TO STRANDS BEACH 2 Bed Condo in Dana Point in Niguel Beach Terrace-oceanside of PCH. Upstairs, 2 patios.

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Surf Boards, Wet Suits, Artwork, Antiques, Household Goods, Clothing, and much much more. Located on the corner of Golden Lantern and Camino Del Avion in Dana Point 92629

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

HELP WANTED PICTURE FRAMER Mat cutting, picture fitting. Must be good at addition and measuring, clean in your work.

Cortador de mats. Ensamblador de cuadros para posters. Que conosca medidas del metro, que sea limpo en trajabo. Part Time or Full Time available. Medio tiempo complete. Available hours Monday-Friday between 7:00am-5:00pm $12.00+bonus (depending on experience) 949-388-8403 HOUSEKEEPERS FT/PT HOUSEKEEPING RUNNERS FRONT DESK CLERKS FT/PT RESERVATION AGENTS PT Apply in person. Dana Point Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Dr, Dana Point, Ca 949-496-1203 ARE YOU A COLLEGE OR HIGH SCHOOL GRAD WHO IS INTERESTED IN A CAREER OPPORTUNITY? Local State Farm Agent has positions open for potential Agent Aspirants who want to own their own agency in the future. They would be training in my established and successful agency. The experience is priceless for the ambitious, self-motivated, seriously interested individual who loves working with the public. What makes you a strong candidate? Email response with resume to: elaine@elainelavine.net

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Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point area every week?

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949.388.7700 ext. 102 Dana Point Times May 18–24, 2018

Page 13

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DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Are Wave Pools Really The Future of Surfing?

Thoughts from the recent WSL Founders’ Cup in California’s landlocked Central Valley

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

he smell of cattle and dust lingers in the stiflingly evening air. It’s 95 degrees as the sun two-steps with the horizon. There’s not a breath of wind. The local casino’s doing brisk business cashing in on regulars’ social security checks.

Former world champ Joel Parkinson takes a seat at a blackjack table, with a black, 10-gallon cowboy hat perched on his head.

On the back lawn, a woman sings Waylon Jennings tunes while her backup band infuses the airwaves with a honky-tonk twang. It’s a fitting soundtrack as we’re only an hour outside of Bakersfield, home of Merle Haggard and Buck Owens. This is what Saturday night in Lemoore looks like during the inaugural WSL Founders’ Cup at Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch.

In recent weeks, the surf spotlight has shown brightly on advancements in wave pool technology. In the midst of the contest in Lemoore, another wave pool facility

San Clemente surfer Kolohe Andino well positioned at the Surf Ranch in Lemoore for the inaugural WSL Founders’ Cup. Photo: Courtesy of WSL

in Waco, Texas strategically released a string of video clips heralding their rendition of a freshwater wedge. As they say, social media’s been blowing up ever since.

Considering how bad the surf around San Clemente and Dana Point has been in recent months, both pools look like a ridiculous amount of fun, but after spending a weekend in the heart of the Central Valley at the Surf Ranch, I think I prefer a good day on the cobblestones at home.

“Call it wave-riding, but don’t call it surfing,” joked Steve Pezman, the founder of The Surfer’s Journal, a few years back when the wave pool thing was just shifting into gear.

After sitting front and center for all the action in Lemoore, it’s pretty clear Pez knew what he was talking about. Wave pool surfing takes almost all of the vari-

ables out of the sport. The last thing I’m saying is that there isn’t a time and a place for man-made waves—there absolutely is— but in my mind, the surf experience encompasses a lot more than ripping a few turns to the beach.

“This is like figure skating or the floor routine in gymnastics or the halfpipe in Olympic snowboarding,” described one spectator in Lemoore. “The surfers should have to tell the judges what their routine is before they catch a wave and then be scored on the degree of difficulty.”

In each heat of the Founders’ Cup, competitors were given a left and a right-hand breaking wave to try and garner a score.

There were no dramatic, last-minute rides. No strategical twists. There was no hassling for position or priority. There were no paddle battles. Heck, there wasn’t

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

KAI McPHILLIPS

Water Temperature: 60-64 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

I

t was a pretty epic showing by a whole slew of San Clemente surfers at the WSA West Coast Surfing Championship last weekend. Local surfers notched wins in an incredible 11 different divisions.

With so much talent enjoying so much success, it doesn’t make picking a Grom of the Week very easy, but an extra tip of the cap is due to Kai McPhillips, who won the under 16 division.

“I was only in my wetsuit for 12 hours this weekend,” joked Kai on Instagram when the contest was finally done and dusted.

Held in Oceanside in fun and contestable conditions, Kai made the most of the surf to lock in another great competitive result.

Dana Point Times May 18-24, 2018

any paddling at all. Competitors waited in waist-deep water for their wave, took a couple strokes and then did their best to perform on the 700-meter race track. I still can’t figure out why they were wearing leashes? For fans of progressive surfing, it showcased the incredible talents of the athletes. For purists, it lacked the sand and salt.

Not to get too deep here, but the ocean is a source of solace. It challenges us. It humbles us. It enlightens us. It provides.

It takes. It’s a retreat from the nonsense we endure on land. It’s a fountain of youth.

Over the years, it’s helped soothe the souls of friends battling cancer and other terminal illnesses. It’s eased the minds of other friends battling substance abuse.

It gives meaning to kids and adults with disabilities. It helps soldiers coming home from war. It’s there when you need it. It doesn’t discriminate. It’s free, and almost always, it’s good for what ails you.

“Maybe they could at least put some toothless alligators or something in there to make it interesting? Maybe a mechanical shark like the Jaws one at Universal Studios that chases the surfers if they fall off?” pondered another fan in Lemoore.

The Founders’ Cup served as a dry run to the upcoming WSL World Championship Tour event that will take place at the Surf Ranch this September—the contest that replaced the Hurley Pro and Swatch Pro at Lower Trestles. It was an opportunity for contest organizers, production crews, surfers and fans alike to work out the kinks and fine-tune the details before a world title hangs in the balance.

While there’s no shortage of squabbling going on about the place that wave pools should occupy in surfing, perhaps the legendary Phil Edwards put it best when he said, “The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.” DP

Kai McPhillips hoists more hardware for the family trophy case at the WSA West Coast Championship.

Photo: Jason Kenworthy

The kid’s been on a roll as of late. Earlier this spring he helped San Clemente High School’s Junior Varsity surf team claim the NSSA High School State title. He finished runner-up behind teammate Ethan Mudge in a final that was an all-Triton affair.

Led by his father, Colin McPhillips, a three-time world longboard champion, Kai and his younger siblings are quickly climbing the ranks and becoming a potent force to reckon with at amateur surf competitions up and down the California coast. DP

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Outlook: Fun size SW swell maintains waist-shoulder high+ (3-4’+) surf at best spots through the weekend with new SSW swell moving in to hold up those sizes into early next week. Small NW swell continues to mix in. Larger SSW/S swell due mid next week. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

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