December 21, 2018

December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

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Fun-Filled Adventures to be Found in the Winter Go.See.Do. SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 11, ISSUE 51

www.danapointtimes.com

Reflect back on the top stories of Dana Point in 2018. Illustrated by Chelsie Rex

Donut Named After DHHS Surfer EYE ON DP/PAGE 4

Winners Announced for Boat Parade EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

New Guest Opinion Column by Hoiyin Ip DP LIVING/PAGE 22

DP EYE ON DP

Dana Dana Point Point

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things Dana Point

cameras as well as affordable options in the $99 range. —Eric Heinz

Petition against SONGS Spent Fuel Storage Nears 2,500 Signatures

should know this week Award Winners Announced for Boat Parade of Lights

THE LATEST: The winners of the 44th Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade have been announced after dozens of Christmas light-decorated vessels took part in the two weekend event. Boats embraced the “Western Wonderland” theme with line dancers, campfire, coyote and cactus decorations, ten gallon hats and country music.

The harbor tradition attracted thousands of spectators who gathered along the boardwalk to watch each of the 72 participating boats float by on Dec. 7-8, 14-15.

Kim Tilly announced the winners of the boat parade on Sunday, Dec. 16 at the parade’s annual brunch for participants at Harpoon Henry’s restaurant.

“People love this event because the boats are up close and personal and the crowd really feels a part of the event,” Tilly said. “Boaters have helped create holiday history for generations, and this is truly the spirit of Christmas.”

There were 16 winning categories for this year’s Parade of Lights, 17 sponsor awards, as well as three categories for Judges’ Choice awards and one for Yacht Club with Most Entries, which went to Dana West Yacht Club.

Besame Mucho, the vessel with the three dancing cowgirls, took home three awards for Best Crew, Best Theme and Best Sailboat for boats more than 30 feet.

Doheny Doll won awards for Best Use of Lights and Best Powerboat for boats less than 30 feet. Mer Sea won for Best Theme and Best Sailboat, and Sea Wind O won for Most Original and Best Powerboat for boats more than 30 feet.

As for sponsored award winners, Supervisor Lisa Bartlett’s office recognized Furlough Daze with the Spirit of OC award. The People’s Choice award went to Fish Tales after the public gave her the nod over Besame Mucho, Rapscillion and Doheny Doll.

WHAT’S NEXT: For a full list of winners, visit www.danapointtimes.com. —Lillian Boyd

CUSD Approves Spanish Immersion Program THE LATEST: RH Dana Elementary School received the green light Wednesday, Dec. Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights photographed by Tom Prince, on Instagram as @360prince.

Photo: Courtesy of Tom Prince

12, to transition into a Spanish-language immersion school beginning next school year.

The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees approved the transition plans, which RH Dana Principal Kristen Nelson had laid out during last month’s board meeting.

“We are very excited to open a 50/50 Spanish Dual Immersion Program,” Nelson said in a CUSD press release.

Under the language immersion instruction, students would be taught in English 50 percent of the time and in Spanish the other 50 percent. The transition will be introduced in the 2019-2020 school year, starting with the kindergarten class, which will carry the program through each subsequent grade level.

The transition is estimated to cost $288,000 over the next five to six years, covering additional staffing and Spanish materials, according to CUSD. That money is to come from general funds as well as Title I – a federal grant program designed to improve certain schools’ education and academic strategies.

With the CUSD Board’s approval, RH Dana will be rebranded from the RH Dana Science and Technology Academy to the RH Dana Language and Science Academy.

It will also join four other schools in the district that have similar language immersion programs.

Las Palmas, San Juan and Viejo Elementary Schools currently have 80/20 Spanish immersion programs, wherein 80 percent of instruction is in Spanish and 20 percent is in English.

WHAT’S NEXT: “Bilingualism is the future.

My daughters are bilingual, and it has opened so many opportunities for them.

This program is going to strengthen this school and strengthen our community,” Nelson said.

RH Dana will host a series of informa-

tional meetings regarding the program.

The first meeting was scheduled for Dec. 18 at 9 a.m. The remaining meetings will be held on Jan. 9 and Jan. 16 at 9 a.m. and on Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. —Shawn Raymundo

Local Photographer Bends Reality in Images THE LATEST: Tom Prince, on Instagram as @360prince, combines the surreal and cylindrical point of view to his artwork online.

An avid hobbyist, Prince said he enjoys the various angles and perspectives he can create through 360-degree imagery, like the images he created of the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights.

“I love capturing the difference images, and I do it all the time,” Prince said.

Images taken by Prince to make the 360 effect have to be stitched together, but the hardware Prince uses can do it for him with a little tweaking. The camera has two fisheye lenses, situated back-to-back, that shoot omnidirectional and splice the images together.

Prince is able to bend the image and controls the framing by an app on his phone.

“It’s something different and unique, and there are a lot of good photographers out there,” Prince said. “I think the one thing that inspires me are all the people who take photos and post them. I think people are really creative, the apps help people be more creative, and I think it’s just a lot of fun to create something different that maybe catches people’s eye.”

Technology may deserve a lot of the credit, but it’s still essential to have a good eye to be able to create the images Prince has put together.

Prince said the hobby is like photography in general; there are high-end

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THE LATEST: On the online petition website Change.org, one effort has garnered almost 2,500 signatures as of Dec. 18 demanding Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Kamala Harris take action on the spent nuclear fuel facility at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).

The petition wants the representatives to stop the transfer of spent nuclear fuel to the dry-cask storage and to recall the Holtec International canisters. The group says the stainless steel casks, which are five-eighths of an inch thick, are inadequate. They also want the casks to be covered by additional protection and moved to “higher ground.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The petition— it’s named “San Onofre Nuclear Waste: RECALL Defective Holtec Storage System. It’s a LEMON”— doesn’t appear to have a deadline, nor does it state where it will be filed, except for with Pelosi and Harris.

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has its own petition portal available in a link to this story at www.sanclementetimes. com. —EH

Woman Involved in Social Media Fraud Arrested Tuesday THE LATEST: Ashley Bemis, 28, of San Juan Capistrano was arrested Tuesday, Dec. 18 by Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) on suspicion of “multiple felonies” related to social media scams she’s accused of orchestrating.

Bemis is accused of starting a social media campaign earlier this year when the Holy Jim fire was burning 23,000 acres between Riverside and Orange counties. She claimed her husband (who doesn’t exist) was part of the teams fighting the fire, and she asked for donations on his behalf.

According to a press release from OCSD, firefighters from the area became suspicious when the name Bemis used in her social media posts didn’t come up in local fire department rosters.

Eventually, sheriff’s deputies stated they would look into the matter in October.

WHAT’S NEXT: Bemis was booked on $50,000 bail and was reportedly still in custody as of Tuesday after 5 p.m. Her first court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 19, according to the “Who’s In Jail” page by OCSD. —EH www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Donut Named After Dana Hills Surfer Dana Hills High School senior Ian Gottron took home both the longboard and short board championships in this year’s South Coast League Individual Finals at Trestles—a feat that earned him a donut named after him at Nikki’s Café in Capistrano Beach.

The DHHS surf team gathered at the new donut shop in Doheny Village on Tuesday, Dec. 18 for the celebration.

“I’m completely stoked and honored to have this donut named after me,” Gottron said. “When my coach told me at first, I couldn’t believe it, I thought it was kind of odd. . . But I’m now seeing how cool it actually is.”

The donut’s namesake, “Gato Son,” was inspired by Gottron’s nickname and Instagram handle @gato_son, a nickname given by Dana Point Surf Club President Eric Diamond.

Gottron has been surfing since he was about 5 years old, says his father, Billy Gottron.

“I pushed him out into waves at Doheny, Strands and Salt Creek ever since he was little. He never stopped loving it,” Billy Gottron said.

Naming the donut after Gottron was a gesture to encourage locals and surfers to support the new business, according to the owners. Nikki’s takes the place of Donut World, which closed in August 2017 and was popular among beachgoers and the surf community. Now, Gottron will be able to enjoy the Gato Son donut (a maple bar with bacon on top) for free for a year, and his surf teammates can enjoy a deal of their own: buy one Gato Son, get one free.

Thomas and Nikki Yib opened Nikki’s to the public on Wednesday, Dec. 5 in an official ribbon-cutting attended by members of city council and city staff. The Yibs also own Kelly’s Donuts in San Clemente.

Nikki’s Café is located at 34130 Doheny Park Road, Capistrano Beach. Hours are 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. every day.

New MNWD Directors Sworn In Moulton Niguel Water District welcomed Kelly Jennings and Bill Moorhead to its seven-member Board of Directors on Monday, Dec. 12, along with returning Board President Donald Froelich.

Jennings, a Director of Operations at Mission Lutheran Church in Laguna

Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22

FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Each Saturday, California farmers bring fresh produce to sell at the Dana Point Farmers Market. Craft vendors are available the first Saturday of the month. La Plaza Park, Pacific Coast Highway, near the Clock Tower.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24 DHHS Surfer Ian Gottron celebrated two championships in the South Coast League Individual Finals and the honor of having a donut named after him this year. Photo: Courtesy of Billy Gottron

Niguel, spent more than two decades advocating for clean, reliable and affordable water while working at Moulton Niguel.

Moorhead, a Principal Water Engineer for the City of Anaheim, has served as a member of the District’s Citizens Advisory Committee for nearly 20 years.

“Kelly and Bill have been valuable community leaders, and we’re excited for them as they transition to their new roles as Moulton Niguel Directors,” said Moulton Niguel Vice President Brian Probolsky. “They’re already hard at work finding ways to enhance our customer service efforts and contributing to the District’s long-term service solutions.”

Director Jennings previously served on staff at Moulton Niguel.

“I am beyond thrilled to return to Moulton Niguel in this new role to continue my work on behalf of our many constituents,” said Jennings, a resident of Laguna Niguel. “The District has a well-qualified Board of Directors, and I am honored to work alongside my colleagues and our excellent staff to ensure our customers receive the highest quality water at the lowest possible rates.”

Moorhead, who brings 42 years of water experience to the Board, praised Moulton Niguel staff for serving customers in an efficient, economical and environmentally responsible manner.

“Moulton Niguel is well-known for having a top-notch and professional staff,” said Moorhead, a resident of Mission Viejo. “As a Director, it is my job to make sure they have the tools, resources, and authorization to carry out their duties in a cost-effective manner. We want to be responsible with the use of public funds and prioritize infrastructure planning, maintaining high water quality and positive customer engagement.”

Moulton Niguel Water District provides drinking water, recycled water and wastewater treatment services to customers in Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point.

Police Search for Burglar Posing as City Water Employee Police are searching for a man suspected of burglarizing a San Juan Capistrano home on the 27000 block of Paseo Mimosa after posing as a city water employee Tuesday morning, Dec. 18.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD), at around 10 a.m., the suspect—a white male in his mid-20s—allegedly ransacked the master bedroom of the home as part of a scam.

The man, wearing a hard hat, vest and jeans, was let into the residence after telling the victims he was there to check on their water pressure, OCSD spokesperson Carrie Braun said.

When the man didn’t come back outside after a while, the victims called the city to verify whether something was wrong with the water, but a city employee told them that they didn’t send anyone to their residence, Braun said. The victims went back inside the home and found that the master bedroom had been rummaged through and the suspect gone, Braun said.

“It was very clear that suspect had gone through the master bedroom to look for valuables, jewelry (and) money,” Braun said.

According to Braun, more than $10,000 worth of jewelry was stolen.

OCSD deputies responded to the location and patrol-checked the area, but the

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PLANNING COMMISSION The Dana Point Planning Commission meeting is canceled in observance of Christmas. The next meeting is scheduled for January 14, 2019.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26

MONARCH BEACH SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 7 a.m. Every Wednesday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club welcomes people interested in making a difference in the local community and changing the world at their weekly meeting.

Doors open and breakfast begins at 7 a.m. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, 25135 Park Lantern. www.monarchbeachsunriserotary.org.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27

COASTMASTERS (TOASTMASTERS) 7-8:30 p.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.

suspect was unable to be located, Braun said. Investigators are currently working to identify the suspect by looking at any surveillance footage that may have been taken in the area.

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.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

2018 Year in Review

Reflecting on Dana Point’s Top Stories

BY LILLIAN BOYD, DANA POINT TIMES

JANUARY Smoking Ban Passes Jan. 16 • The Dana Point City Council passed a city-wide ordinance on Jan. 16 that prohibits smoking on sidewalks, in alleys and in parking lots. The ban passed, 3-2, with then-Mayor Richard Viczorek and then-Mayor Pro Tem Joe Muller opposing. Councilwoman Debra Lewis introduced the idea of a smoking ban in May 2017 and reiterated her support before the vote.

FEBRUARY City Urged to Change At-Large Voting Feb. 2 • The city of Dana Point Clerk’s department received a letter from Russell Myrick of the RDM Legal Group in La Jolla, expressing their belief that “voting within Dana Point is racially polarized, resulting in minority vote dilution, and therefore Dana Point’s at-large elections violate the California Voting Rights Act of 2001 (CVRA),” according to the letter.

Myrick’s claims of under-representation are based on 2014 data showing Latinos make up 18 percent of Dana Point’s 34,000 citizens.

The letter pointed to the lack of Latino representation on city council. Carlos Olvera, who was elected in 2013, had been the only Latino in 20 years to secure a council seat. City council was given 45 days to hold a hearing and then 90 days to adopt an ordinance.

SONGS Begins Fuel Storage Feb. 8 • The storage of the first of the 73 canisters expected to contain spent nuclear fuel rods at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) began.

New Chief of Police Selected Feb. 16 • Lieutenant Margie Sheehan of Orange County Sheriff’s Department was selected as Dana Point’s new Chief of Police Services. Sheehan, a veteran of the United States Marine Corps, has worked for OCSD for 23 years and has experience in special investigations, patrol operations, community policing and outreach, as well as crisis and emergency response. Sheehan took over for retiring Chief Russ Chilton in March.

FRC Put on Hold Feb. 20 • Dana Point City Council voted, 3-2, to amend the current charter and temporarily put Dana Point’s Financial Review Committee (FRC) on hold. Then-Councilman John Tomlinson proposed that the city council discuss Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

On Aug. 22, Orange County District Attorney (OCDA) Tony Rackauckas announced that the case against alleged “Golden State Killer” Joseph DeAngelo will be prosecuted jointly in Sacramento County. Photo: Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department

changes to the FRC Charter to ensure it serves the purpose envisioned by the council, change the manner in how appointments to the FRC are made and directed that all FRC activities be put on hold until further actions are taken. Tomlinson added that the committee had become politicized. The FRC consisted of five members, each selected by a city council representative.

Councilman Joe Muller emphasized that the FRC is not “disbanded; only amended.” The FRC has yet to resume meeting.

MARCH CUSD Addresses Gun Violence March 1 • Dana Point Police Services met with several other law enforcement organizations at the Capistrano Unified School District to exercise a staged shooter scenario in light of the Parkland, Fla. school shooting on Feb. 14.

A presentation was given at the CUSD Board meeting on March 7 on school safety.

March 14 • Students within the Capistrano Unified School District, including at Dana Hills High School, participated in a nationwide walk-out to protest gun violence in schools.

In accordance with state law, students were not disciplined for assembling, as long as they adhered to district and school guidelines.

APRIL Golden State Killer April 24 • The “Original “Night Stalker,” later known as the “Golden State Killer,” was finally taken into custody. Ex-police officer Joseph James DeAngelo, 72, was arrested on the night of April

24 in Sacramento on a warrant issued from Ventura County on two counts of murder with special circumstances, including murder during a rape and murder during a burglary. DeAngelo was named responsible for more than a dozen murders, more than 50 rapes and 120 burglaries in the state of California beginning in 1974.

On Aug. 12, 1980, the serial murderer known then as the ONS struck in the middle of the night, raping Dana Point resident Patrice Harrington and bludgeoning both Patrice and her husband, Keith, to death in their Niguel Shores home on Cockleshell Drive.

City Moves Forward with By-District Voting April 30 • Dana Point City Council held its first reading of an ordinance establishing and implementing by-district elections for city council.

The decision to move forward with five voting districts resulted after receiving support from Council members Paul Wyatt, Joe Muller, John Tomlinson and Mayor Richard Viczorek. Council member Debra Lewis was the sole opponent to the five-district conversion.

MAY Doheny Desalination Plant Report Published May 31 • The draft Environmental Impact Report on the desalination plant planned for Doheny State Beach was released to the public. Plant operators are hopeful the plant could produce about 15 million gallons of drinking water per day.

JUNE Federal Judge Orders Settlements for Homeless June 13 • Federal Judge David O. Carter ordered

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that sites for homeless shelters be determined

by June 13 per his order made during a state conference in May. This came after a recent Grand Jury report was released, criticizing how Orange County handled homelessness in a document titled “Where There’s a Will, There’s a Way: Housing Orange County’s Chronically Homeless.” The report recommended the county and cities should develop a permanent supportive housing plan that’s proportionate to all cities, as well as establishing some kind of homeless joint-powers authority.

SLIP Task Force Announced June 19 • 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, is a model of the successful Human Exploitation and Trafficking Unit (HEAT) that has landed more than 300 felony convictions, including eight life sentences.

JULY City Staff Announces OpenGov Application July 17 • City Manager Mark Denny revealed that OpenGov, a financial transparency portal designed to bring more visibility and openness to government operations, is now online. This site provides the opportunity to view, filter, and analyze the city’s revenue, expense and balance-sheet financial data.

Information is available for the past five fiscal years, dating back to 2014-2015. You can also download the data (e.g., in Excel) for offline analysis. www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

AUGUST Phase I of SCWD Tunnel Project Complete Aug. 3 • Dana Point Times reported the completion of South Coast Water District’s first phase of a $100 million dollar tunnel project in South Laguna Beach. The five-year Phase I construction, which came in under budget, began in March of 2016 and included the creation of a new access shaft (104 feet deep and 20 feet in diameter) and a new access tunnel under Pacific Coast Highway from the shaft to the existing sewer tunnel (approximately 340 feet long, including the intersection). The contractor Drill Tech stabilized and enlarged approximately 611 feet of the existing sewer tunnel, which included the change-order work. Phase I work was completed significantly ahead of time in February 2018. To keep construction progressing during the bid process and award for Phase II, SCWD awarded a change-order to stabilize an additional 311 feet of the tunnel.

Dana Point Resident Allegedly Stabs 3 Marines Aug. 4 • At about 1 a.m. on Saturday morning, Aug. 4, three members of the U.S. Marines were stabbed in an altercation in San Clemente. None of the Marines received life-threatening injuries, but all three were taken to a local hospital and treated for their injuries. Alexis Aguirre, 24, of Dana Point was arrested for the stabbing by Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Aguirre faces a maximum 14 years in state prison for the charges. He pleaded “not guilty” during his arraignment.

Investigation Initiated on Canister Handling Aug. 9 • A contractor working with Holtec International spoke at a Community Engagement Panel meeting and accused Southern California Edison of not relaying information to the public about how a canister was put in a compromising position as it was being loaded. The incident sparked an investigation from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and spent fuel loading has been paused ever since.

Coastal Commission Approves Headlands Development Aug. 10 • A 35,000-square-foot commercial development consisting of a 57-room hotel, 52-bed hostel, a 4,000-square-foot restaurant, a visitor center and a 174-stall parking garage to be constructed on a 1.6-acre vacant lot in Dana Point was approved by the California Coastal Commission (CCC) during its meeting on Friday, Aug. 10 in Redondo Beach.

SEPTEMBER Sept. 8 • A dead body was found by Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) deputies within a cave of the Dana Point Harbor jetty. The deceased, Daniel Leroy Miller,

Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

70, was reportedly a longtime Dana Point transient who had lived on-and-off within the Dana Point Harbor jetty for decades.

OCTOBER CUSD Cuts Ties with Nonprofit Oct. 10 • Capistrano Unified School District severed its relationship with the CUSD Foundation for Education after it was discovered a former president of the nonprofit had embezzled funds.

NOVEMBER Master Lease Signed for Harbor Nov. 2 • A ceremony and press conference were held at the Dana Point Harbor for its master lease signing on Friday, Nov. 2. Orange County officials and Dana Point Harbor Partners celebrated the milestone of the 66-year agreement to invest $300 million. Community meetings planned around a harbor revitalization plan first began about 21 years ago.

City Council Election Nov. 6 • Dana Point City Council incumbents Richard Viczorek and Joe Muller, as well as political newcomer Jamey Federico, were elected onto city council in the 2018 election. It was the first election in Dana Point to incorporate districted voting.

Constituents in Districts 1, 2 and 3 were able to participate in the city council election, whereas voters in Districts 4 and 5 will vote for their city council representative in 2020.

DECEMBER Dec. 3 • A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the unveiling of the Hobie Alter Memorial Statue. The monument honors Dana Point legend Hobart “Hobie” Alter, the founder of the Hobie brand and the original Hobie Cat. His concept of the Hobie Cat—which was created to emulate Hawaiian canoes—developed from collaboration with his fellow surfers to develop a simple, easy design. The Hobie Cat 14 was then created in 1968. The Hobie Company celebrated its 50th anniversary for the catamaran in October.

Clergy Abuse in Dana Point Dec. 5 • The Minnesota-based law firm of Jeff Anderson & Associates released a report on clergy sexual abuse in the Diocese of Orange, which contained information, photographs and assignment histories on 72 clergy accused of sexual misconduct. A spokesperson for the Diocese of Orange says that list is erroneous and overinflated. Of those 72, eight men were found to be, at least at one point, affiliated with Dana Point or St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church. DP

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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

Letters to the Editor

HOW TO REACH US CITY REPORTER Lillian Boyd, 949.388.7700, x113 lboyd@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

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

> Debra Wells (SJC)

EDITORIAL

Real Estate Sales Executive > Jennifer Guy

City Reporter, DP Times > Lillian Boyd

ART/DESIGN

Senior City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Shawn Raymundo

Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

GIVE LOCALS A CHANCE FOR ART CONTESTS TERRY GOLLER, Dana Point

The Salt Creek mural is a wonderful project and crafted by our own Dana Hills High students. It is a perfect portrayal of our Dana Point lifestyle with calm, cool colors that reflect the local beauty. We can take great pride in this endeavor.

Now, we have a Whale Festival logo that was designed by a professional. How much better it would have been to offer the contest to the local schools. How can any student compete with such a professional artist? Outside artists should step aside for students to exert their own innate talents along with city pride.

May I suggest that we limit the Festival Poster Contest to local active students only? After all, Dana Point is the host for the festival and our art should reflect our own students, which could include neighboring schools. This is also the sentiment of our local art teachers.

I agree with a recent Dana Point Times letter titled “Dana Point More Like Financial Districts than Coastal Towns.” We should concentrate on retaining the local flavor of the neighborhood fabric that has made our city so desirable.

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh

Finance Director > Mike Reed

CAPO BEACH WILL NEVER FORGET

Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

General Manager > Alyssa Garrett

ALAN BELL, Capistrano Beach

Copy Editor > Randall Youngman

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller

Former Councilman John Tomlinson’s “alt history” has already begun. A Letter to the Editor titled “Thank you, John” completely distorts his abysmal record. This woeful attempt to rewrite history cannot paint over the fact that Tomlinson never missed an opportunity to vote against Capo Beach interests.

The most heinous example is when he cheated Capo out of our right to vote for City Council in 2018. Council had to choose which three Districts would vote.

Three Districts had incumbents up for re-election: Districts 1, 2, and 5 – 5 being Capo Beach. In an unforgivable act of betrayal, Tomlinson threw Capo under the bus, teaming up with Muller and Viczorek to choose Districts 1, 2 and 3. Rather than preserving Capo’s right to vote on an equal basis with other incumbent districts, his priority was ensuring Council’s continued balance of power. Ms. Weagley doesn’t

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (SC)

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jake Howard, Tim Trent

Dana Point Times, Vol. 11, Issue 51. 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.

FOLLOW THE DANA POINT T IMES

mention this stain on Tomlinson’s history.

Nor does she mention that he didn’t say a word when countless residents begged Council to keep Capo Beach intact. To his shame, 92624 was the only community of interest that was carved up.

Prior to Tomlinson’s election to council, the Planning Commission had denied a variance to the Majestic developer because of residents’ parking, traffic and height objections. Council overturned the denial in late 2014. Tomlinson’s first vote as a new council member in January 2015 was to remove the entire Planning Commission and install what I believe are pro-developer commissioners. Next, over residents’ strong objections, he voted to spend attorney fees and precious staff time writing Council’s Measure I to compete with citizens’ Measure H. Measure I lost by 20 points.

Tomlinson voted for a short-term rental ordinance that allowed two-day minimum stays anywhere, but exempted HOAs that prohibited STRs. Capo Beach has virtually no HOAs. Again, he sided with outside investors over protecting Capo Beach residential neighborhoods. Fortunately, Capo residents spearheaded the referendum that successfully overturned that ordinance.

Tomlinson was asked repeatedly to set aside funding for Doheny Village but never advocated for this cause. He had ample opportunity to seek an ordinance to regulate rehab facilities, but never lifted a finger to help.

Tomlinson repeatedly voted for irresponsible budgets and worse, he led the charge to disband the Financial Review Committee, siding with Muller and Viczorek to silence two Capo Beach members who had exposed overspending, deficits and mismanagement.

Tomlinson’s shameful public record amply demonstrates his contempt for those he represented. Capo Beach must never forget.

COX DOMINATES DANA POINT INTERNET ACCESS

choice for cable internet and cable TV. Sure, we could all switch to satellite dishes and some form of slower internet.

But why is Cox allowed to charge noncompetitive rates to a captive audience?

Does this sound like gouging to you? I understand that a monopoly may have been required to justify initial cable installation. But when are the wires paid for?

Even if they were granted a long-term monopoly, the city still has some leverage by pointing out when the contract does expire (that) negotiations should start on a friendly basis.

At other locations, I have had other providers and found them to be competitive with the local service provided by Cox. Not better, but as good and less expensive.

So aside from feeling like I am being pricegouged, I have no major complaints with local service. Perhaps there is something I am missing, and I would be open to understanding additional facts.

‘GREEN NEW DEAL’ NEEDED TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE KYLE GRAY, Ladera Ranch

I’m a 20-year-old student from Ladera Ranch who is worried about the ongoing climate crisis taking place in the world. After reading extensively about the recent wildfires in our beautiful state and their connection to climate change, I’ve realized that we need to take drastic action to curb the effects of climate change. Because of this, I support New York Rep.-elect Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s resolution to create a House Select Committee for a “Green New Deal” in Congress. United Nations climate scientists tell us we have just 12 years to move our country off fossil fuels to avoid catastrophic climate disaster. We need a Green New Deal to create millions of green jobs, move our country off fossil fuels and protect working people of all backgrounds. Congress members should support this resolution, and I hope that you can help motivate our local politicians and communities to support it, too.

DAVID GOLDBERG, Dana Point

Cox has a monopoly on cable in Dana Point granted them by city council. I believe this was granted in 2004. I do not know when it expires; but it is certainly time for a hard look. Spectrum advertises service with similar features to our current service with no contract, for a fee that is less than half of my current bill. They were delighted to sign me up, until they checked and found they could not provide service in Dana Point.

Dana Point residents are left with one

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to lboyd@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning.

Dana Point Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

FACEBOOK.COM/DANAPOINTTIMES • INSTAGRAM@DANAPOINTTIMES TWITTER.COM/DANAPOINTTIMES • LINKEDIN PICKET FENCE MEDIA

Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

Page 8

www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin

by Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

Hallmark Achievements from 2018

W

hat a year it has been! I am grateful for every year you give me the opportunity to serve you in the fifth district. 2018 has been full of wonderful opportunities for South County, which have led to many successes along the way.

Our communities are growing and becoming more beautiful each year. With the year coming to a close, I wanted to highlight some of the special projects that make our lives in South County more efficient and enjoyable.

Dana Point Harbor Revitalization

The Dana Point Harbor is very near

and dear to my heart. It is one of the most beautiful and enjoyable places our county and state have to offer. Unfortunately, anyone who has been to the harbor knows that it has seen better days, and reinvestment in our beloved community asset is absolutely necessary. This year, we were able to take a giant leap forward in revitalization, as we concluded THE BARTLETT negotiations and signed BULLETIN a long term partnership

By Lisa Bartlett with Dana Point Harbor Partners. As revitalization continues and more construction begins, the places we enjoy at the Harbor will remain open for business and ready for the next chapter in Dana Point.

The I-5 South County Improvement Project Completion

One of my main priorities has always been to increase regional mobility. After numerous years of planning and con-

Editor’s Note:

By Lillian Boyd, Dana Point Times City Reporter DANA POINT TIMES

I

t is because of Dana Point that I grew up learning the wonders of the ocean.

To my mother’s horror, my dad would sit me on his surfboard as a toddler and paddle along the coast of Strands Beach and Salt Creek. Like many novice surfers, I stood up for my first wave at Doheny with my dad helping to launch the surfboard.

I remember counting each step up the stairway at Strands Beach at the end of my junior lifeguard days, wishing someone would build an elevator and never even fathoming that would someday come to fruition. I remember using two gentle fingers to feel the rigid surface of a sea star at the Ocean Institute day camps. I remember getting seasick aboard Ocean Adventures but feeling magically cured after a whale sighting.

I didn’t know it as a child, but learning the wonders of the ocean would eventually point me to marvel at the beauty, complexities, successes, failures, projects, traditions, setbacks and growth that together distin-

Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

guish the community of Dana Point.

Having left South Orange County for the beginning of my career in journalism, I was given a unique perspective upon my return to Dana Point this year, as an outsider. So much has changed since my junior lifeguarding days at Strands. I want to thank the readers of Dana Point Times and the community as a whole for making me feel welcome, and for making me feel anything but an outsider. Your kindness, resourcefulness, constructive criticism and passion is what helps drive this newspaper, and I will not take that for granted.

Looking back on Dana Point’s 2018 in just the three months I’ve been with Picket Fence Media, I am in wonder of the strength and perseverance of this community. It’s my promise to you that I will do my best to continue telling important stories, establish accountability to our leaders and hold a mirror to the makeup of this city for what’s to be celebrated and what’s to be examined, as you will determine. Here’s to a new year for Dana Point. DP

Page 9

struction, the I-5 South County improvement has finally been completed.

The project has increased access to I-5, decreased traffic and, most importantly, the road is safer. With nearly a quarter of a million individuals driving this stretch of the I-5 each day, these improvements will surely help make a difference.

South County Trolley System

South County residents have had the great opportunity to enjoy the trolley systems. The trolley systems running throughout South County cities help connect people to popular destinations.

As chairwoman of the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), it is a priority of mine to make it easier, safer and more cost-effective for every OC resident to access all of the great local attractions the area has to offer, and the trolley system is doing just that.

We are so fortunate to live in such a thriving and welcoming community.

Each of our cities and surrounding areas have offered so many wonderful holiday

events that benefit and support fun for all those in our community. From photos with Santa and holiday-lights boat parades to food and toy drives for those in need, our community truly comes together for a greater cause this season, and I am honored to be part of such giving. There is still more to these next few days as well.

Be sure to check out the Dana Point Harbor’s “A Western Wonderland” Holiday Light Festival activities every night until Jan. 3. In addition, Mission San Juan Capistrano hosts a nightly “Capistrano Lights” tree lighting and music program until Jan. 6, and on Dec. 22, OC Animal Care hosts its “Pawliday,” with free pet adoptions!

I wish all of you a safe and wonderful holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Lisa Bartlett is the Orange County supervisor for the fifth district. She was elected in 2014 and re-elected in 2018. DP PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the DP Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the DP Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@danapointtimes.com

RECIPE INSIDE!

Bear Coast Coffee’s

Pear Cider

Indulge in the holiday spirit with this cozy beverage

A LOOK AT UPCOMING Festivals IN

2019

Exploring + the Coast with Electric Bikes

Go.See.Do

WELCOME TO

On the Cover

Go.See.Do There may be a slight chill in South Orange County air as the winter season is in full swing, but this corner of the world is just as beautiful when it’s frosty as when it’s warm – and there’s still plenty to do.

In our winter Go.See.Do, we’ll give you the rundown on some great locations to shop, dine and play.

For starters, learn about electric bike companies in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente and the products they make to help you navigate this beautiful landscape.

Next up, learn about nearby locations worth traveling to for snow and festive winter fun.

Looking for a place to dine but feel like you’ve tried everything? Not to worry – we’ve picked out a brand new South County restaurant and talked to the head chef there.

We’ll also provide information on places to get high-end gifts as well as gifts that don’t break the bank; a list of upcoming festivals; and a list of places to catch the big game in February.

We hope that if you’re scratching your head on how to make the most out of your winter months, this guide will be a great start.

Get in the spirit of the holidays with a cozy, warm beverage courtesy of Bear Coast Coffee.

Bear Coast Coffee’s

Pear Cider

This seasonal beverage is offered at both of Bear Coast’s locations:

10 Bartlett pears, sliced into quarters 12 cups water 3 cinnamon sticks 3 oz whole ginger 1 tbsp whole cloves 3/4 gallon of apple juice

DANA POINT • 34052 La Plaza #103, 949.388.1103 SAN CLEMENTE • 618 ½ Avenida Victoria, 949.482.0618 For more information, visit www.bearcoastcoffee.com.

Combine all and let simmer for two hours.

Strain and serve.

COVER AND ABOVE IMAGE BY JENNA ROSS

6 PLACES TO GET THOSE

Wintertime Feels

BY ALEX GROVES

W

hile Southern California can get a little chilly at times, it’s certainly nothing like the Northeast or Midwest, where temperatures plummet below freezing and snow is an actual occurrence. But just because it doesn’t feel like deep winter here doesn’t mean South County residents can’t make a day trip to find fun winter feels. From snowy mountainsides to ice skating rinks, there are plenty of places where people can get their cold fix, and we’ve compiled a list of them right here.

Mammoth Lakes

Idyllwild

Another popular locale for skiing and snowboarding is Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in Mammoth Lakes, California. With more than 150 named trails ranging from beginner level to advanced, the resort is one of the best for winter sports enthusiasts. Outside of the ski area, Mammoth Lakes boasts numerous dining options, including breweries, taverns and pizzerias.

This quaint little mountain town, nestled above Hemet in Riverside County, is a lesser-known but very picturesque location to enjoy the snowfalls. Idyllwild boasts several parks where families can get out and enjoy the snow that’s fallen on the ground. Idyllwild also has a charming downtown with various specialty shops, restaurants and coffee houses.

www.visitmammoth.com

www.idyllwild.com

Laguna Mountain Laguna Mountain is just a stone’s throw away in San Diego County, but it’s known for receiving plenty of snow regularly. There are several large areas throughout Mt. Laguna for sledding, as well as cross country skiing. Visitors can head to nearby Alpine for its gift and specialty shops and to Julian for a slice of pie from the well-known Julian Pie Company. www.fs.usda.gov

Big Bear Lake The picturesque town of Big Bear Lake in Los Angeles County is known for its snow and is frequented often by snow sporting enthusiasts. It’s home to Snow Summit Ski Resort, which offers 240 acres of terrain and 27 different trails for people of varying skill levels. There’s also Big Bear Snow Play, a location popular among families for inner tubing. www.bigbear.com

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace

Take a trip to the desert to ride The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which travels over breathtaking vistas to reach the Mountain Station at Mt. San Jacinto State Park. It’s not unusual during the winter months to see the station – located more than 8,000 feet above sea level – blanketed in snow.

Also at the station is a natural history museum, a gift shop and hiking trails.

Granted, it never gets cold enough in Southern California to really do outdoor ice skating, but there are indoor ice rinks that offer a similar experience. Aliso Viejo Ice Palace boasts it is “The Coolest Place in Orange County.” There are public skating sessions most days of the week. The cost is $15 for admission and $4 for skate rentals.

1 Tram Way, Palm Springs.

888.515.8726. www.pstramway.com

9 Journey, Aliso Viejo.

949.643.9648. www.avicepalace.com

Go.See.Do

!

C r t c e l E It’s

Exploring the Coast with Electrically Powered Bikes

BY LILLIAN BOYD

D

anny Val fell in love with electric bicycles as soon as he rode one for the first time in San Diego.

Soon thereafter, he made a career change: the former account manager for a landscaping company decided he wanted to open a Pedego Electric Bikes location in Dana Point.

His first experience with an e-bike was December 2017. Val opened the Dana Point location in June and has now been helping others fall in love with the hobby as well.

“I loved it so much, and I wanted to be

able to share that enjoyment with others,” Val said. “Now I get to help people try out day rentals or choose their next e-bike investment.”

In the United States, electric bikes with throttles are permitted with certain regulations, whereas in Europe they are banned.

E-bikes are classified into three different categories: Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted on trails and do not exceed 20 miles per hour; Class 3 is illegal to use on trails since they exceed 28 miles per hour. “(These e-bikes) enable you to go further and longer than a regular bike,” Val said.

“You can pedal and still get a workout if you

want to.”

Pedal-assist systems sense the cyclist pedaling and provide assistance automatically without having to hold down the throttle—an ideal feature for people embarking on long rides with few stops. Val says this type of technology allows people who might otherwise be held back, such as grandparents, to keep up with their grandchildren on bikes and cover just as much ground.

Pedego offers a variety of customization, such as hub motors or mid drives. Hub motors deliver power without any extra gear shifting or wear on the drivetrain. Each Pedego bike with a hub motor includes a twist-and-go throttle. Most Pedegos sport a 500-watt hub motor with twice the power of a typical mid drive. Mid drives are best suited for capable cyclists who are comfortable shifting gears often. They also require additional maintenance because of the added wear.

As for battery options, it depends on whether the rider prefers to have it placed in the rear rack or evenly distributed with a lower center of gravity. Electric bikes have also been developed utilizing smartphone technology. Smartphone applications can show you your navigation, performance training, maintenance reminders and tech support.

“There are so many aspects to e-bikes that people can explore. It’s all about family, fun and fitness. It can be overwhelming when choosing what kind of e-bike is right for you, but that’s what I’m here for,” Val said. “People can test out which bikes they’re interested in and I can provide guidance.”

Val says that most of his customers using day rentals like to explore the Dana Point Harbor or venture between Capo Beach and San Clemente on the bike trail along Pacific Coast Highway. For more information on ebike technology and the local Pedego shop, visit www.pedegoelectricbikes.com.

Test Riding, Renting, or Purchasing Your E-Bike BUY MY BIKES INC 32302 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5611 www.buymybikes.com

CYCLEOGICAL 34102 La Plaza A, Dana Point, 949.542.4777 www.cycleogicalbikes.com

EZ GREEN BIKES 34193 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.2761 www.ez-green-bikes.business.site

MURF ELECTRIC BIKES 212 N El Camino Real Suite B, San Clemente, 949.245.0294 www.murfelectricbikes.com

PEDEGO ELECTRIC BIKES 34186 Pacific Coast Highway Suite A, Dana Point, 949.481.2044 www.pedegoelectricbikes.com

SAN CLEMENTE ELECTRIC BIKES AND RENTALS 2345 S El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.444.6421 www.sanclementebikesandrentals.com

URBAN BICYCLE OUTFITTERS 1900 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.5737 www.urbanbicycleoutfitters.com

“There are so many aspects to e-bikes that people can explore. It’s all about family, fun and fitness.” —Danny Val

2019 { F O s l a Festiv

Go.See.Do

BY ERIC HEINZ

The southern part of the county is ripe with events in your local communities and neighboring cities. Each presents visitors and residents with rich heritage and tradition, whether through food, exercise, sports, collections or other cultural significance. Here are some of the major events each of the three cities hosts each year.

Most of them have been around for decades.

SAN CLEMENTE

DANA POINT

SAN CLEMENTE

Panhe Festival

Boat Parade of Lights

Honoring the native cultures inhabiting South Orange County, Panhe is a celebration of the Acjachemen Nation and Juaneno Band of Mission Indians. It is an educational day for people of all ages to enjoy the entertainment, crafts and demonstrations.

Panhe is hosted by the San Onofre Parks Foundation and the United Coalition to Protect Panhe. The festival takes place the third or fourth Sunday in March at the San Mateo Campground.

The Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights has taken place each of the last 44 years, where dozens of the boats docked at the harbor parade around the waterways. Boats are covered in lights as they make their way. The event takes place the first two weekends in December.

San Clemente Fiesta Music Festival

www.sanonofreparksfoundation.org.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Fiesta de las Golondrinas The granddaddy of all San Juan Capistrano events—Fiesta de las Golondrinas. The massive Swallows Day Parade is the centerpiece of the Fiesta, but there are tons of supporting events.

There’s the “hanging” of the mayor, beard growing contest, Hoos’Gow Day—it’s a hootenanny of settlementera shenanigans. Check online for the latest updates of their events.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Mariachi Festival A throw-down like no other, the annual Battle of the Mariachis enlivens the atmosphere of the Mission San Juan Capistrano with its up-tempo tunes and colorful garb. Next year’s Battle of the Mariachis takes place May 18, 2019. www.missionsjc.com.

www.swallowsparade.com.

DANA POINT

Festival of Whales Back-to-back weekends celebrate the return of the gray whales, which typically migrate and pass near Dana Point waters during the weeks of mid-March.

Various whale watching excursions are available from local businesses, and there are many things to do at the arts and crafts fairs and children’s center.

Turkey Trot There’s reason to be thankful for the Turkey Trot in Dana Point. The annual 10K, 5K and children’s races take place on the holiday each year early in the morning around Dana Point Harbor.

Registration is already available for the 2019 Dana Point Turkey Trot.

Vintage Food and Wine Festival

SAN CLEMENTE

Classic Car Show

Attendees are treated to some of the best California has to offer in food and wine. The next Food and Wine Festival takes place Oct. 5, 2019, at the Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Hundreds of vehicles are lined up and down the streets of Avenida Del Mar. Vehicles of nearly all makes and models are displayed and meticulously polished by the owners. The Classic Car Show takes place the third Saturday in June.

www.vintagesjc.com.

www.villagesanclemente.org.

DANA POINT

Doheny Blues, Ohana Festival, Driftwood Festival

www.ohanafest.com. www.driftwoodfest.com. www.dohenybluesfestival.com.

SAN CLEMENTE

Ocean Festival SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

www.scchamber.com.

Dana Point is on its way to becoming the concert capital of South Orange County. Its main three festivals— Doheny Blues, Ohana Festival and Driftwood—pack their respective venues with performances from multiple genres. Check for specific dates during the summer online for each of the festivals.

DANA POINT

www.turkeytrot.com.

Start off with the spicy salsa competition and complete the entire day by listening to dozens of bands perform during the biggest street party of the year in San Clemente. The Fiesta is possibly the oldest tradition in the city that’s still heavily attended. It started as a day for musicians to gather downtown more than 60 years ago and has grown each year. The San Clemente Fiesta takes place the second Sunday in August along Avenida Del Mar.

The Greatest Show on Surf. Ocean Festival has been drawing athletes from all over the nation and world for decades. The festival started with local lifeguards who brought it to the city to test their skills against one another. It has since then swelled to the perennial pantheon of sea-faring competitors.

Ocean Festival takes place the second or third weekend of July at the San Clemente Pier.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

RMV Rodeo This is a major stop for professional bull riders and other rodeo competitors.

The prize of winning in these competitions is a trip to a national tournament in Las Vegas, so there’s incentive for the athletes to give it their best. The 2019 Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo dates will be announced online. www.rmvrodeo.com.

Go.See.Do

DINING ANEW IN

FIG 313 Restaurant opens along San Clemente’s El Camino Real

BY ERIC HEINZ

O

wners of Fig 313, Gosia Napiorkowska Dahabreh and Gus Dahabreh, have the best problem you could ask for—customers who stay well past the end of their meal. “We’ve had people coming at 5 p.m. and leaving at 9 p.m.,” said Gosia. Since opening on Aug. 21, the owners said they have had a packed house each night.

Fig 313 is housed in a historic building that was constructed in 1929.

It has been many businesses since that time, including an old waffle business, a French restaurant, a furniture store and many other ventures.

Gus Dahabreh and Gosia Napiorkowska Dahabreh. Photos: Tracy Wilson

“Maybe 10 or 15 years ago, we saw the building and thought it would be so beautiful,” Gosia said. “When our agent called, saying they had a building available, this was the one she had in mind. It was like fate.”

Gosia is from Poland originally and Gus is from Jordan. They met while in college.

The restaurant has indoor and outdoor dining facilities as well as a private room for parties.

The restaurant owners described the food as part of the “new-American” culinary experience, cooking up dishes from Europe and influenced by traditional American dishes. They have a mouth-watering burger that has been altered with the restaurant’s main feature—figs.

“We wanted to incorporate figs into the menu because it’s one of the favorite fruits,” Gosia said. “We have dried figs, fig salad and we have homemade fig jam that we’re putting on a burger.”

Cornish hen is the prized dish at Fig 313, but due to its demand, it is not always available. The owners said they want to make sure it is as fresh as possible. Even the ketchup has a little twist on it, as the chef adds nutmeg and some other ingredients to make the taste pop.

There are also cocktails that feature figs, which even inspired the coloring of the walls and décor of the restaurant.

“We’re thinking of changing the menu twice a year for spring/summer and winter/fall selections. We’ll definitely play around with it a little bit more because you can’t have figs in every single dish. They’re not everyone’s favorite. But they’re so easy

to plate and have a great color,” Gosia said.

“So far, we’ve enjoyed serving people, and the warm welcome motivates us to do better,” Gus said. “We are already thinking about holiday menus, brunch, and it’s exciting.”

Currently, Fig 313 is only serving dinner, but that’s likely to change in the near future.

“We’re excited about the food and the customers, the kinds of people we’ve had here,” Gus said. “We’re meeting a lot of new friends.”

The owners also own an Italian restaurant in Huntington Beach, but they wanted to try something new in the Spanish village by the sea.

As fine dining continues to grow in San Clemente, the owners of Fig 313 aren’t worried about their counterparts edging them out.

“We don’t look at it as a competition; we just want to express ourselves and do what makes us happy,” Gosia said.

The chef at Fig 313 is having his own debut in the executive role. “It’s been great so far,” said executive chef Matthew Sirjani. “We’ve got a great staff, and they’ve got a great attitude and are willing to learn.

(Figs) are a very versatile ingredient, so it’s not that hard to work with.

There’s a lot of stuff you can do with them.”

Since speaking with the owners of Fig 313, the restaurant has developed a fall and winter Fig 313 | 313 N. seasonal menu available now, and the private El Camino Real, dining room is available for small holiday gatherSan Clemente ings. There will be a New Year’s Eve special menu 949.218.4406 to be announced soon. Reservations are also now www.fig313.com available by calling the restaurant. Fig 313 is open nightly from 5-10 p.m.

DP GETTING OUT Dana Point

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

At the Movies: ‘Ben is Back’ Is Vintage Holiday Dysfunction

EDITOR’S PICK

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.

Saturday | 22 LIVE AT LUXE! 7-10 p.m. Come out for cocktails and live music at Luxe Restaurant and World Famous Martini Bar. Luxe offers a steakhouse, seafood and Italian menu and a specialty in martinis. 24582 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point. 949.276.4990. www.luxefinedining.com.

DESIGN & WINE 4-6 p.m. When you need to unwind this holiday season, Design & Wine painting classes are the answer. Craft the perfect evening when you join in each Saturday in December in the Spa Cafe of Monarch Beach Resort. Reservations are $50 per person. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. 949.234.3900. www.monarchbeachresort.com.

Photo: Mark Schafer/Lionsgate Films

BY MEGAN BIANCO, DANA POINT TIMES

C Photo: File

MONDAY, DEC. 31: NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE BALL AT IVA LEE’S 7:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Ring in the New Year with live entertainment and Cajun cuisine. The Ryan Kalama Trio and DJ Rybo will perform. Tickets include a three-course dinner and are $45 for first seating, $55 for second seating and $65 for lounge seating. Iva Lee’s, 550 N. El Camino Real. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

UGLY SWEATER SATURDAY 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Wear your finest ugly Christmas sweater and receive a small, sweet treat with the purchase of a meal at Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant. 34664 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point.

949.661.1005. www.originalolamendis.com.

Sunday | 23 SUNDAY FOOTBALL 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Get your football fix while enjoying bar and food specials all day at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. For more information on football-themed cocktails and food specials, visit www.danapointstillwater.com. 24701 Del Prado. 949.661.6003.

Monday | 24 CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP 4 p.m. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church will hold Christmas Eve worship at 4, 5:30 and 11 p.m. There will be a candelight family service with carols and special Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

music, as well as childcare. There will not be worship on Christmas Day. 33501 Stonehill Drive, Dana Point. 949.493.3414. www.mygloriadei.org.

Tuesday | 25 CHRISTMAS DAY MASS 7:30 a.m. St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church will hold Mass on Christmas Day at 7:30, 9 and 11 a.m., with Mass in Spanish at 1 p.m. For more information, visit www.stedward.com or call 949.496.1307.

33926 Calle la Primavera, Dana Point.

Friday | 28 LADY WASHINGTON ADVENTURE SAILS 4-6 p.m. Join a two-hour, family-oriented Adventure Sail to experience tall ship handling, sea shanty singing, and maritime amusement with the crew of the Lady Washington. Adventure Sails are scheduled between Dec. 28 and Jan. 13. For a full schedule, go to www.ocean-institute. org. Tickets are $60 for adults and $50 for children. Ocean Institute members receive a special discount. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point.

949.496.2274.

Sunday | 30 NEW YEAR’S EVE DECORATING 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Help the elderly by volunteering for a dinner event. Dana Point SOS/Paths Club is in need of 20 volunteers to help city staff decorate the gym for the New Year’s Eve dinner dance. High school students from Dana Point or the San Clemente area who need volunteer hours are encouraged to come and help out. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. For more info, call 949.395.7275 or visit www.danapointpaths.org.

Monday | 31 NEW YEAR’S EVE SENIOR DINNER DANCE 4 p.m.-12 a.m. Volunteers are needed to serve and clean up for the New Year’s Eve Senior Dinner Dance. The Dana Point SOS/Paths Club encourages high school students from Dana Point or the San Clemente area who need volunteer hours to come help out. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point. For more info, call 949.395.7275 or visit www.danapointpaths.org.

Page 20

elebrity family members working together can be a marketing gold mine for press tours and trivia nuts. Anjelica Huston won Best Supporting Actress in her father John’s film, Prizzi’s Honor (1985); Talia Shire played Connie Corleone in her brother Francis Ford Coppola’s Godfather trilogy (1972-90); Henry and Bridget Fonda co-starred in On Golden Pond (1981), etc. Most recently, writer-director Peter Hedges and his actor son, Lucas, collaborate on the family drama, Ben is Back.

In the suburbs of New York, Ben Burns (L. Hedges) surprises his family by returning home Christmas Eve morning. Teenage Ben has spent the past six months in rehab for addiction to painkillers and heroin, and no one is more excited to see him than his mother, Holly (Julia Roberts). His stepfather, Neal (Courtney B. Vance), and sister, Ivy (Kathryn Newton), are skeptical, as Ben technically hasn’t fully completed his recovery yet.

What happens to the family for the next 24 hours will test their trust and safety with Ben. Peter Hedges is no stranger to family dysfunction, as he previously covered in What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993), Pieces of April (2003) and Dan in Real Life (2007). Here he is at his most intense with the serious topic of teen drug addiction at the center of Ben is Back. Lucas’ personal connection to his director doesn’t hold back his performance, fortunately, and Roberts shows she still has it as a lead. Ben is Back isn’t exactly a feelgood film for the holidays, but film fans will appreciate it. If there is one thing to nitpick, it’s that the mother and daughter being named Holly and Ivy is a little corny. DP

www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com GARAGE SALES

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

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED: LOOKING FOR RDA/RDA-EF (SAN CLEMENTE) We have a beautiful, modern office, a wonderful patient population, an enthusiastic team and a sincere periodontist dedication to quality care. Three to four days a week, possibly leading to full-time. Previous dental experience, a great attitude and strong work ethic are our first priority. Bilingual is a plus! Please send resume and a paragraph about yourself to: ginnyperio@att.net.

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949.388.7700 ext. 102 Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

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DP Dana Point

DP LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Community, Sustainability, Prosperity by Hoiyin Ip

Every Dollar Is a Vote

“E

very dollar is a vote.” What?

I know we just went through a long period of that. This is a different kind of voting – much more fun and a great way to promote sustainability.

Were you around on November 24?

It was Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate mom-‘n’-pops – a quintessential part of the local culture. Many of them are longtime community members. And all are among the most hardworking people in the community. They are so hands-on and have a story about everything they offer. Travelers and journalists (and locals) like to tell a good tale about them, which is just another reminder of our privilege of living here. Unfortunately, mom-‘n’-pops have been squeezed so hard, they often have a short life span. Let’s change that to preserve our community character. Every day can be a “buy local” day. Walk, bike or drive to a mom-‘n’-pop around the corner, say hi the way you greet a good neighbor, and start creating your own tale here and now. What you are doing is really promoting community, sustainability and prosperity – all by one action.

Another good “buy” for sustainability is “buy used.” I was once told by a local store owner and artist, “Trash is created by lack of imagination.” Unfortunately, that store is no longer around to showcase imagination. But there are many other examples of creative re-use. Check out Patagonia Worn Wear: Torn gear get a second life – happy and hip. Time magazine recently featured a few other brands. Everlane: “The garment

is sourced from Japanese denim and produced in a sustainable Vietnamese factory that recycles its water and turns waste into bricks to build local homes.” Allbirds: “The shoe industry has a big carbon footprint, thanks in part to the fact that many shoe parts – including plastic soles, logos and shoelace tips – are made from petroleum. . . SweetFoam, a new material made from parts of sugarcane that would otherwise be discarded.”

Do you know every process in a product’s life cycle, from raw material to trash, has an impact on ocean health? Ocean is the biggest carbon sink. We witness a variety of problems with the ocean now.

For it to heal, we have COMMUNITY, to reduce, reuse and SUSTAINABILITY, repurpose stuff.

PROSPERITY

By Hoiyin Ip I know these shopping ideas are more about good causes than good bargains.

Some say discounts are needed to make it more appealing. But there is always someone cheaper, sometimes unfair or even unethical. Where shall we stop on the chasing for bargains? I tend to believe the folks living here have some financial freedom to support what they believe in. Do you value local economic vitality? Do you appreciate creativity?

Should they be cultivated and rewarded?

Buy local, buy used.

Let’s spend our money as a celebration, with great pride in our goodwill

Photo: Courtesy of Mike Thompson

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo was submitted by Mike Thompson, a Dana Point resident. The photo was taken in June 1962 of Thompson standing with his mother, Rose Thompson, and family friend Floyd Travato, overlooking the old Capistrano Beach pier and Beach Road.

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 lboyd@picketfencemedia.com.

and our continuing efforts to be more sustainable. While you are doing this, tell the local governments and schools to vote with their dollars for the causes, too.

Hoiyin Ip, a Dana Point resident, is often recognized on the street as the plastic lady for her cleanup work. But she likes to think of herself as a guardian of the ocean.

She is often reminded of a quote by former

Pet of the Week: Maggie

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

our-year-old Maggie had quite the life upheaval when her owner moved away without her. Though she can be a bit shy, Maggie doesn’t mind being petted. She is used to being the only cat, but does well in the company of calm and friendly cats. Maggie would do best in a quiet home, where she can finally settle in for good. If you would like to know more about Maggie, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at Maggie. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point 949.492.1617 or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. DP Animal Shelter Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

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

Sudoku

DANA POINT TIMES

F

California Coastal Commission Executive Director Peter Douglas: “The coast is never saved. It’s always being saved.” DP

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

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See the solution in next week’s issue.

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AUTO REPAIR

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MASSAGE THERAPY

Paul Svoboda CAMTC #76690 Monarch Beach Studio or Outcall, 310.387.2560 MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School

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PLUMBING

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SCHOOLS

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SPECIALTY BEAUTY

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DP SPORTS & OUTDOORS Dana Point

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Dana Point Sports & Outdoors Year in Review

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, DANA POINT TIMES

O

n local, county, state, national and international levels, Dana Point athletes made their mark in a wide variety of sports inside, outside and on the water. Dana Point added new hall-offamers, champions and professionals to its ranks in a memorable year.

Here is a look back at some of the best Dana Point sports moments of 2018:

JANUARY Dana Hills Wrestlers Win Seven League Silvers Seven Dolphin grapplers earned their way to second-place finishes for Dana Hills at the Coast View Athletic Association Finals.

Erick Carreno, Miguel Rodriguez, Gavin Walker, Colin Reider, Levi Jones, Kian Abedi and Josh Harkey all won silver.

FEBRUARY Dolphins Girls Basketball Wins First Outright League Title The Dana Hills girls basketball team went undefeated in the Sea View League (8-0) and won its first league title since 2013. It was the first time in school history that the Dolphins did not share the girls basketball league title.

MARCH Fred Taylor III Backstops Santa Margarita Hockey to National Title Dana Point resident and Eagles goaltender Fred Taylor III earned all six wins at the national tournament and allowed only nine goals as Santa Margarita won the USA Hockey High School Division 1 national championship. The Eagles also won ADHSHL and State titles.

Natalie Bray Wins State Gymnastics Championship Olympica Gymnastics’ Natalie Bray, 13, earned the state championship in floor exercises and took the all-around state title in the Level 8 division. Bray also contributed to a Southern California win at Regionals.

APRIL Dana Hills Boys Track Wins County Championship A school- and meet-record performance in

Clockwise from left. The Dana Hills football team honored 45 combat veterans from World War II to present day conflicts in their annual Honor the Valor game. Players wore special jerseys with the names of veterans honored on their back nameplate. Photo: Alan Gibby/Zone57. The all-female crew of the Tomol out of Dana Point Yacht Club won its class of the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race in April. Photo Courtesy. The Dana Hills girls tennis team won its 20th consecutive league title and advanced to the program’s 12th CIF-SS Final, where it earned runner-up honors. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

the 4x400 relay put the Dolphins over the top to win the Orange County Championship, 68-60, over Mission Viejo. Max McKhann, Jack Landgraf and the girls 4x400 team won individual county titles.

All-Female DPYC Crew Wins Newport-Ensenada Race The Tomol and its all-female crew from the Dana Point Yacht Club, including skipper Sue Griesbach, took first in the Cruz Non-Spin class in the annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race. The winning time was 24 hours, 38 minutes and 58 seconds.

graduate, was picked by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the 37th round.

JULY Liam O’Connor Plays for Ireland at Euro Baseball Championships Dana Point resident and San Juan Hills senior Liam O’Connor played for the Irish junior national baseball team at the 2018 European 18U Junior Division Championship in Grosseto, Italy. Ireland went 2-2, and O’Connor scored four runs with three RBI and a triple.

AUGUST

MAY Mike Weed Inducted to Skateboarding Hall of Fame Former Dana Point resident and skateboarding pioneer Mike Weed was inducted posthumously into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame as a 1970s Era One Skater. Weed was a member of the Hobie team in the 1970s and was known as a bank and bowl rider.

JUNE Three Dana Hills Alums Selected in MLB Draft Jay Schuyler, 2015 graduate, was picked by the Cincinnati Reds in the seventh round out of the University of San Diego.

Zach Wolf, 2015 graduate, was picked by the Miami Marlins in the 18th round out of Seattle University. David Clawson, 2016

San Clemente Times December 21, 2018-January 3, 2019

Dana Outrigger Hosts 44th Whitey Harrison Classic The Dana Outrigger Canoe Club hosted dozens of the region’s best canoe clubs for the 44th edition of the Whitey Harrison 9-Man Outrigger Classic. The race runs from Dana Point Harbor to Main Beach Laguna Beach and back.

SEPTEMBER Dana Hills Football Hosts Honor the Valor Game The Dolphins football team honored 45 combat veterans from World War II to current conflicts in a series of events leading up to and including their seventh annual Honor the Valor game. Players wore special jerseys with the name of a veteran on Page 25

the back nameplate and gifted the jerseys back to the corresponding veteran.

OCTOBER Dolphins Girls Tennis Wins 20th Straight League Title The Dana Hills girls tennis team shared its fifth consecutive South Coast League title with rival San Clemente and won its 20th consecutive league title. The Dolphins made a run to their 12th CIF-SS Final and earned Division 1 runner-up honors.

NOVEMBER Dana Hills Boys Cross Country Takes State Bronze The Dolphins boys cross country team continued to add to its legacy of success with a third-place finish at the CIF State Championships in Fresno. Dana Hills also took a runner-up plaque at CIF-SS Finals and won a record fourth consecutive Orange County championship.

DECEMBER City Unveils Hobie Memorial Statue Dana Point revealed the monument honoring Hobart “Hobie” Alter, the founder of the Hobie brand and the original Hobie Cat, at the Watermen’s Plaza on Pacific Coast Highway. The memorial is the first erected in the park that will pay tribute to local icons in the surf industry. DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP DP SURF Dana Point

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Prepping For The Big Stuff

stressful. At that point, you just have to focus on your body physically and going out there and surfing. It’s about eliminating all of those extra distractions. Having a few days up here has been nice and relaxed. And catching up with all the friends that have flown in from Hawaii and other corners of the world, it’s been really good energy. I personally feel great. I’m looking forward to it, whether the contest runs or doesn’t run.”

How Greg Long gets himself ready for giant surf

DPT: Logistically, you have your skis, but are you securing a boat, working with water safety teams, or how do you dial in that aspect?

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

T

his week, the West Coast was bombarded by a series of strong North Pacific swells. Big-wave surf breaks including Mavericks in Half Moon Bay and Todos Santos in Mexico lit up. Before the run of swells, we caught up with San Clemente charger Greg Long to see how the conditions were lining up and what he does to prepare for a run like this.

Dana Point Times: (DPT): How’s the winter been going for you so far?

Greg Long (GL): “I drove up with my van and my skis a week and a half ago for the swell that we had. I’ve just been kind of hanging here, surfing Ocean Beach and Mavs every day that it’s been breaking, trying to get acclimated to the wave, and especially the wave and the water temp.

I’ve got every board with me, from a little 5’6” fish, to a 10’ gun, to a longboard. I’ve got skis for safety and all the rest, so I can be ready for whatever comes. It’s been nice to actually be settled up here so we’re not doing the last-minute flight, wondering if the boards make it, that kind of thing. I’m wellrested and in tune with the rhythms of the Northern California waves and weather.”

DPT: With your van and whole setup you seem pretty self-contained.

GROM OF THE WEEK

NICO COLI

BY JAKE HOWARD, DANA POINT TIMES

S

an Clemente goofy-footer Nico Coli has been rolling on the contest scene lately. Last weekend at the NSSA’s Seaside Open, he scored wins in both the men’s and juniors divisions. In pumping surf, he utilized a stylish blend of full-rail, power surfing and innovative aerial maneuvers to dominate the field.

But his double win at San Diego’s Seaside Reef was just the latest in run of strong results for Coli. At the end of November, he jumped in the water in Ventura for the Rip Curl GromSearch National Final. Surfing in Dana Point Times December 21, 2018-January 3

Greg Long wrangling a beast at the Pe’ahi Challenge on Maui earlier this winter. Photo: Courtesy of WSL

GL: “Yeah, the guys were laughing at me last night. After we surfed Mavs all day, I did the spring cleaning in the van. I pulled board bag after board bag out, and the guys were laughing at how much stuff I actually had in there. It was like a yard sale.”

DPT: You’re pretty meticulous and have an eye for detail. How important is it to lay everything out and assess all of your equipment?

GL: “It is so important for me, personally, to know exactly where every piece of equipment is. I lived a couple years in a much smaller van than I’m driving now, so I’ve learned how to pack just the bare essentials, but also how to keep everything clean. There’s nothing more frustrating, especially the morning of, when you’re looking for the roll of duct tape or your

the Under 14 division, Coli came away with a very respectable second-place finish (fellow San Clemente shredder Taj Lindblad also made the final and finished third).

Last summer, Coli was selected as a member of the Boys Under 16 USA Surfing Junior National Team.

“We want every kid in this program to be blessed and benefit from the team in both experience and character,” said Coach Joey Buran. “For the rest of their lives, on college applications and resumes, they can say ‘Member, USA Junior Olympic Surfing Team,’ and it will convey a next-level work ethic and strength of character.”

Grooming his talent at T-Street and Lower Trestles, Coli definitely has a bright future ahead of him. DP

CO2 cartridges and you can’t find them.

You’ve got five different bags, you’re going through them in the dark looking for a set of fins; just to know exactly where everything is makes a big difference. And to have everything contained in the van, organization is paramount. So I did my spring cleaning yesterday, got everything really well-organized and all the boards dialed in. Now we just have to make a call depending on what the waves and weather are going to do. There’s no shortage of good waves to be had no matter where you end up on the coast, that’s for sure.”

DPT: How important is it to get all that straight so you can clear your mind and focus on the waves in front of you?

GL: “It makes life a lot easier and less

GL: “There are a lot of things to organize for days like this rather than just being in your wetsuit and paddling out from the beach. Every single session, I don’t like surfing unless there’s someone working water safety looking after me.

Frank Quirarte is one of my best friends.

I’ve actually left one of my skis with him permanently for the winter, so he’s always on call and game to go out and look after us whenever it’s breaking. Having a boat for all of your backup boards and safety emergencies is important on any significant day. I’ve been in contact with a few of the different individuals who I organize boats with.

It becomes tricky around competition time. A lot of those boats are then hired for the contest. As far as my skis, I’m loaning them so they can be part of the water safety around the competition. It’s a lot of phone calls and logistics and coordination, but everybody up here is amazing and helpful. It’s one collective community and family trying to look out for each other the best that they can. It’s an amazing safety network that’s developed the last few years. Nobody is going out there unprepared, or at least there’s a better safety net in place.” DP

Nico Coli. Photo: Scott Flanders/NSSA

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