Dana Poin Times

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VOLUME 4, ISSUE 28

Reaching Out

Dana Point’s top-notch accommodations attract visitors worldwide but work to serve residents, too E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 6 Members of the Dragon Knight’s Stilts theater show perform at the St. Regis Monarch Beach event, “A Summer of Magical Moments.”

The show is one of many efforts by Dana Point resorts to provide events and services to residents. Photo by Jody Tiongco

www.danapointtimes.com

Alleged ‘Drifter Bandit’ bank robber behind bars

Big Taste at the Little Kitchen

A Day in the DP Sun for Children’s Hospital Patients

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

GETTING OUT/PAGE 11

DP LIVING/PAGE 14

Eye on DP

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

DP

D a n a Po i nt

City and Business Calendar Saturday, July 16 VFW Patriots Day Marine Car Wash 9 a.m.-3 p.m. VFW Post 9934 sponsors the MAG 39 (Marine Aircraft Group) Camp Pendleton Patriots Day Marine Car Wash at South Shores Church, 32712 Crown Valley Parkway. See Marine squadron, police and fire vehicle displays while the Marines wash your car. The Sheriff’s Department will provide free Kid Print child identification services. Complimentary coffee, continental breakfast and a lunch barbecue. The event is free but donations will be gratefully accepted.

the Park series continues with a performance by The Whiskey Jack Band performing classic rock tunes at Lantern Bay Park 25111 Park Lantern Road. Bring low-back lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an evening of live music with a view.

For more information call 949.248.3530, email smurphy@danapoint.org or see www.danapoint.org.

Monday, July 18 Senior Bingo 12:15 p.m. Monday and Wednesday at the Dana Point Community/Senior Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3536, www.danapoint.org

Sunday, July 17 Summer Concerts in the Park 4:30 p.m.6 p.m. The free 2011 Summer Concerts in

Tuesday, July 19 Toastmasters 7 p.m. Dana Point Harbor

Toastmasters meets every Tuesday at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.2275, www.danaharbor. freetoasthost.ws

Wednesday, July 20 Sunrise Rotary Club 7 a.m. the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at the Ritz-Carlton. 1 RitzCarlton Drive, 949.493.2759, www.monarchbeachrotary.com

Thursday, July 21 Coastmasters 7 a.m. the Coastmasters of Dana Point (a Toastmasters affiliate) meets every Thursday at the Jolly Roger Restaurant, 34661 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9610, www.coastmasters.org

D A N A P O I N T ’ s T op 5 H ott e s t T opi c s

What’s Up With...

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...the Drifter Bandit Busted?

THE LATEST: The alleged “Drifter Bandit” was arraigned Tuesday for robbing a Dana Point bank and three others in South County between May and June.

Michael David Marano, 45, Santa Ana, is charged with four felony counts each of second-degree robbery and second-degree commercial burglary and sentencing enhancements for eight prior strike convictions for five 1988 robberies, one 2011 robbery, and two 1988 assaults using a firearm.

Authorities called the robber the “Drifter Bandit” because of his disheveled appearance. About 11 a.m. on July 8, Marano was pulled over in his vehicle and arrested by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, who had the defendant under surveillance.

He was arrested near his Santa Ana home, authorities said.

Marano has an extensive criminal history dating back to the mid 1980s, consisting of robberies, thefts and drug possession. The Orange County Superior Court website shows a jury found him guilty of receiving a stolen boat in 2003, along with allegations he drove the vessel close to bathers while traveling more than 5 mph. In 2001, he pleaded guilty to felony charges of domestic violence and theft, while in 1994, he was convicted of selling a controlled substance.

On May 3, Marano is accused of entering a Chase Bank in San Juan Capistrano. He is accused of presenting a note which stated “bank robbery” and demanding money from the teller. He is accused of taking cash from the teller and fleeing the scene. He repeated that pattern on May 26 at the U.S. Bank in Dana Point, then again on July 5 at the Citibank in Laguna Niguel and on July 6, again in San Juan Capistrano, at the Farmers & Merchants Bank, authorities said.

From the four bank robberies, Marano is accused of taking a total of more than Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

$30,000. This case was jointly investigated by the FBI and the OCSD, through the task force Bank Robbery Apprehension Team.

WHAT’S NEXT: If convicted on all counts, Marano faces a maximum sentence of 110 years to life in state prison. He was being held without bail in Orange County Jail.

FIND OUT MORE: See earlier reports on the robberies and arrest at www.danapointtimes.com —Jonathan Volzke

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...Polluted Pond Waters at Poche?

Photo by Heidi Mefferd

THE LATEST: A meeting of at least six public agencies Tuesday will likely lead to a solution of the flooded public access to Poche Beach, a resident who attended the San Diego gathering said.

“We made some serious progress,” said Tom Marier, president of the Shorecliffs Beach Club Association.

Public access to Poche Beach, at the south edge of Dana Point, has been hampered by high water in a scour pond. The county was the lead agency on a $ 3 million, ultraviolet system that was designed to clean up runoff heading to Poche.

Initially, officials wanted water from that system to bypass the pond at the Coast Highway pedestrian undercrossing, but state officials wanted the cleaned water to

go into the pond.

The pond is created by a berm on the beach, and now regularly floods the pedestrian catwalk. “It’s not just a matter of getting your feet wet—although who wants to walk through polluted water,” Marier said. “The only other access is across the railroad tracks, which is not only illegal, it’s patently dangerous.”

But bulldozing the berm to allow the pond to subside requires permission from state and federal agencies. Marier said Tuesday’s meeting seems to open the door for berm removal as needed starting in August.

The meeting was attended in person by the city, San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board, state Fish and Game, Orange County officials, while Coastal Commission staffers attended by conference call.

County officials said they were also encouraged by the meeting and expected to release details of the plan soon.

San Clemente Mayor Lori Donchak has made the issue a priority. Marier credited her efforts, too. Donchak also credited Dana Point Councilwoman Lisa Bartlett, who joined Donchak and residents on a tour of the beach.

WHAT’S NEXT: The San Clemente City Council will hear a presentation on the issue at Tuesday’s meeting. Donchak said it will be within the first hour of the meeting and include county officials. The council meets at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio.

FIND OUT MORE: See www. Danapointtimes.com —JV

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...the Makar Development?

THE LATEST: The mixed-use Makar

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development at Del Obispo Street and Coast Highway can move forward after the state 4th District Court of Appeal ruled the developer does not have to take special steps to warn or protect potential residents from a neighboring sewage-treatment plant.

Justices noted the lawsuit, filed by the South Orange County Wastewater Authority, was a bit different the norm. State law mandates studies to ensure a development won’t impact the environment, but in this case SOCWA was suing over how the environment might impact the development.

SOCWA, a regional authority of representatives from South Coast Water District, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and seven other agencies, had sued out of fear future residents would complain about the treatment plant, which even SOCWA officials admitted in the suit can smell at times.

“While this concern on SOCWA’s part for the comfort of residents of a project that was as yet but a gleam in the developer’s eye appears to be quite publicly spirited, in reality SOCWA had a not-so-very-carefully concealed agenda,” the justices’ ruling says. “Its recommended method of dealing with the bad smells – ‘intermittent’ and ‘fleeting’ though they were represented to be – was to cover the plant’s aeration tanks, at Makar’s expense.”

That would cost more than $6 million.

WHAT’S NEXT: Makar can proceed with the project, a mix of homes and commercial space. The city and Coastal Commission, which were approving the zone change— the nine-acre site housed a mobile home park since the 1960s—also recommended a buffer zone, air conditioning, visual screening and notifications about the SOCWA plant in the project’s escrow paperwork.

FIND OUT MORE: See the ruling at www. danapointtimes.com —JV (Cont. on page 4) www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP (Cont. from page 3)

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...Woman Sentenced for Fatal DUI Wreck?

THE LATEST: A drunken driver with a bloodalcohol level well over twice the legal limit was sentenced Friday to six years in state prison for killing a man by crashing into him as he rode his bicycle home from work in Dana Point.

Michelle Nicole Stearns, 30, of San Juan Capistrano pleaded guilty on March 16 to one felony count of gross vehicular man slaughter while intoxicated.

About 2 a.m. on Oct. 15, 2007, Stearns was driving in Dana Point while under the influence of alcohol. She approached curve in Del Obispo Street, heading north from Coast Highway, but failed to turn and instead drove on the sidewalk and crashed into a street sign. Stearns’ vehicle began to spin and she struck victim Jose Barranco-Patino, who bussed tables at Denny’s and was on his way home from work. The defendant’s car then crashed into an electric box and came to a stop.

The Orange County Sherriff’s Department responded to the scene and made contact with Stearns, who displayed signs of

DP Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled By Krysta Worthen All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Web site (www.ocsd.org) and reflects data available from calls placed from the field by the responding officer(s). An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

alcohol intoxication including bloodshot and watery eyes, unsteady balance, and smelled like alcohol, authorities said. She had a blood alcohol level of .20 percent, well over the legal limit of .08.

Barranco-Patino suffered severe injuries to his head and brain and his body tissue was left on the road and sidewalk.

Barranco-Patino was pronounced dead at the scene.

WHAT’S NEXT: City News Service reports that prosecutors will ask Stearns serve her sentence in a nearby prison, because she has an 18-month-old child.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.danapointimes.com for earlier reports.

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—JV

...the Gates at Strand?

THE LATEST: A second person now checks the gates at Strands Beach to ensure they are open, Dana Point City Attorney John Ramirez said in a court brief responding to a complaint by the Surfrider Foundation that public access to the beach was limited even after a San Diego judge ruled the city improperly limited

(7:32 p.m.) Two males were in a physical fight in the intersection. One threw a cooler at another, and one was armed with some type of pole. They were starting to disperse but one left bleeding from the face.

WELFARE CHECK Malaga Drive, 34000 Block (7:40 p.m.)

A caller claimed a very young child was screaming or crying all of the time, but had never heard the child before.

Saturday, July 9

Sunday, July 10 CITIZEN ASSIST Cheltam Way, 33300 Block (3:46 p.m.)

A woman’s neighbor was spreading rat poison on the hill behind her home and her dog got sick from ingesting it, she reported.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Juanita, 26800 Block (8:46 a.m.)

A male was on the porch with a bottle of Jack Daniels and several bottles of prescription drugs, but was awake and moving.

MISSING JUVENILE 34300 Block, Dana Strand Road (4:23 p.m.) A 13-year-old boy was not seen for 45 minutes.

TERRORIST THREATS Quail Run, 25600 Block (5:18 p.m.)

A male in a verbal disturbance with a woman threatened to beat her up outside of an Albertson’s.

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor/Golden Lantern Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (11:50 p.m.) A male came into Denny’s claiming he had just been jumped and the suspect was threatening to kill him.

Friday, July 8

The judge sided with Surfrider in calling the city’s passing of the restrictions by and emergency nuisance declaration “entirely lacking in evidentiary support” and “based on pure speculation,” and ruled it unlawful for the city to keep the hours and gates without obtaining a coastal permit.

City Attorney Patrick Munoz has maintained that the gates and hours are not aimed at restricting beach access, but instead a matter of the city’s right to choose how to abate nuisances.

DISTURBANCE Camino El Molino, 34400 Block (3:23 a.m.) A woman claims her exboyfriend refused to leave.

cut and appeared to be mentally unstable.

DISTURBANCE Mariner Drive, 23700 Block (11:51 a.m.)

A 9-year-old boy had several bruises on his head, and his mother claimed the father did it when she was in the shower.

DISTURBANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (2:46 p.m.) Two juveniles broke the drive-thru window at McDonalds.

ASSAULT REPORT Golden Lantern, 33200 Block (3:13 a.m.)

A cab driver was physically assaulted and robbed by two drunk males he picked up from a bar.

DISTURBANCE Victoria Boulevard, 26100 Block (4:47 p.m.) Several people were heard yelling at an elderly female in an alley behind the callers house.

access to the beach through the pricey Headlands development.

Surfrider and residents lodged formal complaints in June. Ramirez responded the locked gate was nothing more than a simple mistake.

“The suggestion that some sort of action by the City has occurred in an effort to restrict or change the access at Strand Beach following the Court’s ruling in this matter is simply false. Rather, on a single occasion the person responsible to unlock the three relevant gates simply overlooked unlocking one of them for a couple of hours on one morning,” Ramirez wrote.

“This was a simple matter of human error, which was immediately corrected.”

Since late 2009 when the Coastal Commission demanded the city “revoke the hours and remove the gates” due to lack of a Coastal Development Permit and the city responded by declaring the area a nuisance and keeping the hours and gates as a crime abatement tactic, the battle for access has raged on.

The city cited crime reports from 2005 to 2010 and relied on testimony of law enforcement officers who said removal of the gates and restrictions would result in rampant crime and vandalism within the development.

WELFARE CHECK Cortes Drive, 24300 Block (3:30 p.m.)

A student who had cuts on her arms was possibly attempting suicide.

Thursday, July 7 MISSING JUVENILE Ritz Cove Drive, 0 Block (2:54 a.m.)

Two twin 15-year-old girls and their 15year-old friend snuck out of their home and possibly left with a male, headed toward the beach.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Spinnaker Drive South, 33500 Block (6:20 p.m.) A woman found a bag of feces on her front porch and thought it might be related to a civil lawsuit with her neighbor.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Golden Lantern, 34500 Block (9:07 p.m.)

A 70-year-old female fell and claimed she did not want medical assistance but was

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WHAT’S NEXT: In the brief, Ramirez says the city has begun discussions on how to resolve the operational hours without further litigation.

FIND OUT MORE: See the city’s legal paperwork at www.danapointtimes.com —JV

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

••• Send your suggestions to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

Wednesday, July 6 WELFARE CHECK Pacific Coast Highway, 34300 Block (10:57 a.m.) A woman was crying, saying she was lost and felt like something had happened to her but would not say what.

ASSAULT WITH DEADLY WEAPON Beach Road, 35600 Block (2:14 p.m.)

A man claimed an employee of a liquor store hit him in the shoulder with a baseball bat.

Tuesday, July 5 INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Pacific Coast Highway/Crystal Lantern (6:52 p.m.) A young male was seen outside a McDonalds vomiting with three to four other young men who stood around him laughing.

WELFARE CHECK Sand Piper Lane/Discovery Drive (7:16 p.m.) A caller saw a black car parked on the corner with the headlights on near a residence of a woman who is known to have numerous medical problems. The caller was unsure if anyone was in the vehicle.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Elisa Drive, 33100 Block (8:12 p.m.)

A pitbull ran around outside, charging anyone who approached.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Olinda Drive, 33800 Block (9:56 p.m.)

A light was on in the basement of a house that was tented for termites. www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

Reaching Out Dana Point’s top-notch accommodations attract visitors worldwide, but work to serve residents, too.

By Kylie Corbett Dana Point Times

ith four legs and their tails waving uncontrollably at the sight of other dogs, Agnes and Gertrude aren’t the typical Ritz-Carlton’s guests to check in to the hotel, but every first Thursday of the month, the lawn of the Ritz’ is full of people and their dogs.

Food and wine is provided for the owners, while the dogs are able to try a variety of flavored waters as canines and others mix and mingle.

The Ritz calls it “Yappy Hour.”

Yappy Hour is one of several examples of hotels serving their local communities, not just overnight visitors from around the world. While the financial contributions the hotels make to the city through taxes cannot be ignored—Dana Point’s four large luxury hotels account for one-third of the city’s budget—the hotels also recognize the importance of reaching out to the community.

General Manager of the Ritz, Bruce Brainerd, identifies the hotel’s success over the past 27 years as a direct result of support provided by local residents.

“We are honored to be a part of this idyllic community,” Brainerd said. “Staying engaged with our residents and surrounding communities through creative activities and new concepts are essential to our ongoing and future success.”

W

At Yappy Hour, it’s OK for dogs like Rooney to put paws on the table. Owner Wes Correll said the Ritz Cartlon event brings together some of the best people in one spot. Photo by Chris Bashaw

Other hotels have programs: The St. Regis holds a weekly art festival, while the DoubleTree has a schools-outreach program and the Marriott sees residents use its facilities for weekend getaways.

In celebration of the resort’s 10th anniversary, the St. Regis Monarch Beach is holding an art program on the lawn,

Jim Samuels, general manager of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott, says many residents use the resort.

Photo by Andrea Swayne

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

called A Summer of Magical Moments that takes place every weekend until Labor Day. Johnny So, general manager of the St. Regis, believes that part of the hotel’s success is based on providing community events.

“We continually strive to bring events and offerings that engage the community,” So said. “The [resort] is dedicated to being an active member of this wonderful community and appreciates the enormous support of the locals.”

Employees of DoubleTree Suites by Hilton held Arbor Day in efforts to teach kids at Richard Henry Dana Elementary School about sustainability within the environment. Audrey Thompson, the DoubleTree’s human resources coordinator, said she believes that care represents the heart of the hotel’s team members.

“We had an arborist come out, and he was able to educate them on why trees are so important and how to plant them,” Thompson said. “The kids were able to put their own contribution into planting the trees because they were already building their own compost.”

After the event, all of the children were provided with their own tree to plant at home, said Dana Elementary principal Christina Portillo.

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“[This] reinforced the message that we all need to take an active step in caring for our environment,” Portillo said. “Staff was especially pleased with how effective the presentation was for our students.”

Jim Samuels, general manager of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott, described the resort as being specifically designed for the surrounding community.

“The resort is available for the local communities to take advantage of many of the amenities we offer,” Samuels said.

These amenities can include live entertainment, simple cocktails, having dinner in the Vue Restaurant, making use of the spas and more.

“We also find that many of the locals love to use our resort as a simple family get away, utilizing our unique Splash Zone and Kahuna Laguna Kids Club for a romantic weekend,” Samuels said.

The Marriott was recognized by the city of Dana Point as the 2011 Business of the Year.

On top of the 10 percent transient-occupancy tax, or bed tax, all four hotels collect an additional $3 per room night to fund the Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID). The TBID is expected to generate approximately $750,000 per year. “[The money] is dedicated to market Dana Point as an overnight destination and to fund and promote special events in town,” said Christy Teague, manager of Dana Point’s Economic Development Department. “On behalf of the TBID, the city has retained a professional marketing firm to assist in developing a ‘brand’ for the city, along with developing a marketing plan.”

Overall, the revenue the hotels will generate for Dana Point, from July 1, through June 30, 2012, is projected at $9.7 million, and is the single-largest revenue for the city.

“These restaurants, shops and services depend on the support of the local community and benefit from the patronage of our hotels’ guests,” Teague said. “The resort atmosphere contributes to the quality of life in Dana Point, which helps make it such a great place to live, and bolsters Dana Point property values.”

The Ritz also donates a portion of the proceeds of Yappy Hour to Pet Project Foundation, a non-profit charitable organization that supports the San Clemente/ Dana Point Animal Shelter.

Deanne French, director of public relations for the Ritz, said she is confident that the community benefits from Yappy Hour.

“There are not many places you can bring your dogs in the city,” she said. “Dogs are like children, so it’s great that [the owners] can bring them along.”

Christopher Owens, who brought Agnes and Gertrude to a recent Yappy Hour, concluded that his dogs were thoroughly enjoying the bacon and cheese flavored waters.

He also described the event’s invitation, along with its name, as a classy move.

I love that the Ritz is reaching out,” Owens said. “We would have been too shy to take the public path, especially with the dogs.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Councilman Joel Bishop, his wife Christi and business partner Sharon Kuyper, last September. They have since been working toward a full makeover of the restaurant.

The new Quench Bar & Bistro features a wide variety of fine wines, specialty cocktails and other beverages and food.

From fresh-baked pizzas and ravioli with vodka sauce to panini and more, the menu offers a nice selection of Italian inspired dishes along with new American cuisine. For more information call 949.276.7900 or visit www.quenchbarandbistro.com.

Girl Scouts Are Golden Girl Scouts Kimberly Fredenburg and Kelley Gomez last month earned Gold Awards—the highest achievement award in Girl Scouting—as Senior Girls Scouts. Both are members of Troop 347 and will begin their junior year at Dana Hills High School in the fall.

Fredenburg has been in Girl Scout Troop 347 for 11 years and recently bridged to Ambassador Girl Scouts—the next level in scouting. For her Gold Award, she created 100 kits filled with fun activities for children who have gone through a traumatic experience and presented them to the Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) to hand out to children in need.

The Trauma Intervention Program volunteers help citizens in crisis. Fredenburg donated no-sew blankets, stuffed animals and volunteer kits at a TIP Informational Seminar that she hosted. She recruited several volunteers from her service club called the Change America Club from the high school to help inform the public about what TIP does. Fredenburg also put together a group of volunteers who visited Olive Crest and put on two holiday parties to work with the children on crafts and donated more blankets. Her service goal was to help raise awareness in the community about assisting children coping with a traumatic event and how we can all get involved to make a difference in a child’s life.

Gomez had been a Senior Girl Scout with Troop 347 for two years when she began to work on her Gold Award by putting on entertaining shows for the residents of Aegis Assisted Living Retirement home. This past year, she began her plan to bridge the generation gap between young and old by bringing children of all ages to sing Christmas Carols at Aegis. Next, she started a letter writing program so that every resident would be sure to receive at least one letter during the holidays. Then in January, she began the task of

Low Cost Cat Adoptions

Kimberly Fredenburg and Kelley Gomez. Courtesy photos

casting, building sets, gathering props and costuming for a production of The Wizard of Oz that she directed and performed in—to the delight of Aegis residents— in May. Gomez and her young volunteers were enthusiastically invited by residents to return to Aegis for future performances.

Café Mezzaluna is Renamed It’s official. Café Mezzaluna, 2 Ritz Carlton Drive, celebrated a name change—to Quench Bar & Bistro—and re-branding on June 15 at 5:30 p.m. with a Chamber of Commerce-led ribbon cutting.

Café Mezzaluna was purchased by former Dana Point city

HARBOR HAPPENINGS

BY BARBARA MERRIMAN

Junior Sailors Ahoy!

T

he Junior Sailing Program was launched at Dana Point Yacht Club in June. This program has been successfully teaching community youth for several years on how to sail and how to be safe on the water. No one needs to teach them how to have fun. It’s evident that they are experts at that, and at the end of their two week classes, beginners will be able to handle an eight-foot Naples Sabot alone with confidence. More advanced sailors will be sailing around in Lasers and CFJs (Collegiate Flying Juniors), both of which are longer, leaner and require a bit more BARBARA skill to sail.

MERRIMAN Dana Point’s Got Talent could be the next hit TV show. At some point in the current session, there will be television camera crews in the harbor filming some students from families at Camp Pendleton who are very lucky to be able to take these classes because of the recent fundraising activities at DPYC. About a month ago, the yacht club’s “official” band, The Burgees, hosted an evening of music with no cover charge, but requests were made throughout the evening for donations to a sailing scholarship fund for

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

Pet Project Foundation (PPF), the nonprofit animal rescue organization that supports the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter, 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente, will hold a low cost cat adoption fair through the month of August.

Adoption fees will be $9 per feline, and PPF will be giving away a wide range of free pet supplies to individuals and families adopting a cat or kitten.

With kitten season upon us, shelter staff and PPF volunteers worry about the stress of the many homeless cats awaiting adoption at the shelter and want to ensure that each cat finds their forever home as quickly as possible, prompting the “$9 for 9 Lives” fair which drops the adoption fee from $100 to $9 per cat or kitten.

PPF will provide a full kitty starter kit to families who adopt a cat at the event, which will include several necessary supplies such as a litter boxes and food bowls. Paula Becker, a PPF volunteer, said, “The nice thing about supplying all this is that people won’t have to leave to purchase these things and then come back for the cat. It’s an all-in-one kit. Let’s get that kitty to a loving home right away!”

For more info visit petprojectfoundation.org or contact Paula Becker at 949.240.0243 or pawlajbcox.net.

Juniors have fun learning to sail at the Dana Point Yacht Club’s summer classes. Photo by John Berry

children of deployed marines. Over $4,000 was raised, and that provides scholarships for 12 kids to come and sail for two weeks this summer.

Membership in the yacht club is not required. The program will run consecutively for three two-week sessions, and the students may sign up for one session or for all three. Boats are available for rent at a minimal cost ($70 for the session) or the young sailors may bring their own if they have one. For any reader who has a day off during the week and would like to

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see how much fun these kids have—and how many skills they are learning—take a drive down to the yacht club and watch them start launching their boats, sailing their boats, and de-rigging and stowing them when the day is done. Not only are sailing skills and safety taught, but there are healthy doses of respect and camaraderie among the sailors for their instructors and for each other.

Tragically, one of our talented instructors, Jeff Adam, contracted meningitis prior to the start of our first session, and died on June 26 at the age of 20. Jeff started as one of our juniors several years ago. Because of his sailing skills, one of his accomplishments was to win the Wooden Shoe Regatta in San Diego. This is a summer event for hundreds of junior sailors. Another notable and heroic thing he did was to save the life of a man who was swept off the jetty by a wave last year.

Jeff loved all kinds of sailing competitions and was more than competent crew for area skippers. In the summer sailing classes at Dana Point Yacht Club, memories of Jeff will be in the minds and hearts of all who knew him.

At this writing, there are still a few spots open for registration in the third session, beginning July 25. To register, either navigate to www.dpyc.org or call the club at 949.496.2900. Once you have signed up, prepare to have a great time while learning a skill that will last a lifetime.

www.danapointtimes.com

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HOW TO REACH US

Dana Point Times, Vol. 4, Issue 28. 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 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA CEO Norb Garrett

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Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@danapointtimes.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

EDITORIAL Group Editor, Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Jonathan Volzke City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

INTERNS Chris Bashaw, Evelyn Caicedo, Kylie Corbett, Ryan Gooding, Sawyer Hardie, Austin Reagan, Cory Saul, Madi Swayne, Brandon Winters, Krysta Worthen

> Sergio Sanchez (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associate > Angela Edwards > Buddy Purel OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

Letters to the Editor Editor’s Note: Our inbox was full with letters about Fourth of July parking this week. Here’s a representation:

PARKING RULES UNFAIR

—Douglas P. Barrett, Mission Viejo We have had our boat in Dana Point Harbor since 1994. Our kids ran on and fished from the docks, swam in the water off our swim platform, learned boating rules from our dinghy and boat and paddled kayaks around the harbor.

It’s been a wonderful experience. One of the things we love to do most there is share the experience with family and friends.

When the reconfiguration of the harbor started taking shape a lot of talk circulated about the way the county was treating boaters within the Implementation Plan. To get a better understanding, I joined the Dana Point Boaters Association. I figured the county couldn’t be so inconsiderate of the fact that it is a boat harbor. I went to many meetings and discussion forums to develop my own opinion.

Well this 4th of July showed loud and clear—more so than the PI(Possessory Interest) Tax debacle - that the county doesn’t really care much about the boater in Dana Point Harbor. The 4th of July holiday is probably the busiest day (and weekend) of the year at the harbor. If you walk the Harbor you can see that entire docks set up tables and umbrellas to celebrate.

Live and recorded music fill the air. And, a special festival of sorts wreaks havoc in the main channel.

When my wife arrived at the Harbor on Friday afternoon she was surprised to learn that Catalina Cruiser overflow parking was being directed to the East Marina Island parking lot. When I contacted the Marina Office I was told it was part of or a decision made by the Parking Task Force. The lot was pretty full by that evening and continued to fill Saturday and Sunday.

It got so bad we called some friends and told them Monday was out of the question and changed our plans to Sunday. We called Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin, Rebecca Nordquist CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, Christina Scannapiego, David Zimmerle

ONLINE POLL

my folks - in their 80s - and told them they’d have to make alternate plans because unless they came down at the crack of dawn they would not find any parking.

I, for sure, could not pick them up because I wouldn’t be able to get back in.

One hundred and fi fty spots were given to Catalina Cruiser travelers.

These people weren’t going to spend a dime in the harbor shops or restaurants.

By the evening of July 4th cars were parked all over the lot—in red zones, between aisles and in front of every building and service shed whether there was room or not. To say it wasn’t safe would be an understatement.

Bruce Heyman of Boaters 4 Dana Point has done an excellent job of following the reconfiguration of the harbor. He’s found that the boaters are the largest contributors to the harbor’s budget. Yet the merchants seem to carry a bigger stick or at least gain more from the reconfiguration than the boaters. We lose slips and parking, and they get more space and parking. I used to think Mr. Heyman exaggerated the situation but I now know he understates it.

What happened over the 4th of July weekend was not right. And, it wasn’t fair. I know that is a simplistic and naïve position. But what the county did was just that—unfair. In your face unfair.

using their boats, the beaches, and picnic areas throughout the harbor for the threeday weekend.

There were more shuttle buses, electric cars and friendly harbor employees helping out than I’ve ever seen in the past.

Because of all the planning, preparation and money spent on shuttles etc. the large crowds were handled without incident.

The people working the boater parking lots were friendly and helpful as well.

I want to thank [harbor staff] for doing an excellent job preparing for the biggest weekend of the year for our harbor. It paid off by helping the thousands of people visiting our small harbor have a great, stress-free time.

KUDOS TO HARBOR, MARINA STAFF

ALREADY MAKING NEXT YEAR’S PLANS

—Dick Davidson, San Clemente I’m writing you about the fantastic 4th of July weekend we just had in Dana Point Harbor.

I have been a slip renter in the West Basin since 1987. My dad had a slip starting in 1972, so needless to say I’ve seen many 4th of Julys in Dana Point Harbor. Most have been very fun, and I’ve seen times when things got out of control and nobody had a good time.

This 4th of July weekend was the best, most organized weekend I have ever seen in the harbor. With perfect weather and warm water, the harbor was full of people

FIASCO ON THE FOURTH

—Tom Gates, Dana Point The parking for boaters, including myself, was a fiasco with full lots the July 4th holiday. If you have been giving spots to Catalina Express customers it needs to be limited on holiday weekends.

While we might not be guaranteed a parking space, the spaces available should be for boaters who pay the rent first.

You need to take corrective action if.... you are indeed giving an unlimited number of spaces to Catalina Express at the expense of the boaters.

—Brian D. Very, Laguna Niguel I would like to make a comment on the overall parking situation over the holiday weekend and parking in general.

I think we all know that during the 4th of July weekend all normal bets are off as far as parking goes. Unfortunately, we need to share the harbor with non-boaters, tourists, etc. With that in mind it will definitely be a mad house, but we know that.

With all of this in mind and the fact that the marina office tells you to come early and stay put, they did a phenomenal job of keeping things under control. In fact, for

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How often do you visit Dana Point’s resort hotels for entertainment, dining, spa treatments, etc.?

Often. I regularly enjoy events and services open to the public.

12% Sometimes.

16% Rarely. It’s just not my thing.

52% Never. I had no idea they welcome people who are not guests.

20% Make sure to sound off on the “DP Times Poll of the Week” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Bookmark Dana Point Times today!

The DP Times Online Reader Polls are not scientific and do not reflect the opinion of the DP Times.

me, there was a handicapped space available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. When we left Monday, it was immediately taken upon our departure.

My wife and I are fairly new to the harbor, only about a year and a half and I come with baggage, a wheelchair, and since our arrival, Dana West Marina Company has been very accommodating to my special needs, including parking and for that I think they deserve a pat on the back for their genuine concern and assistance.

From the Verys, thank you and keep up the good work! And yes, we will see you next 4th of July!

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

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

DP

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The List A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. Compiled by Tawnee Prazak

friday

Capo Shakespeare Festival 8 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse takes a comedic look at plays and poems attributed to Shakespeare. $15. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

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Art-A-Fair 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Art festival in Laguna Beach celebrating its 45th year in action with fine art, workshops and music. $7. 777 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.4514, www.art-a-fair.com.

Friday Night Garden Grilling 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Goin Native chefs host a dinner class with fresh garden items, grilling, a take-home menu and more. 31661 Los Rios St., 949.606.6386, San Juan Capistrano, www.goinnative.net.

Bob Dylan and His Band 8 p.m. Concert at the Pacific Amphitheatre. Tickets start at $29.50. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 800.745.3000, www.ocfair.com.

Night at the Mission Adventure Sleepover 5 p.m. Friday to 8 a.m. Saturday. Mission San Juan Capistrano hosts a sleepover for families. Cost $50-65, pre-registration required. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1306, www.missionsjc.com.

Scott Harvey Wine Tasting 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company welcomes Scott Harvey Wines. $15. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Aloha Friday 9 p.m. Aloha Friday at BeachFire; dress “island style” for specials. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

Go.See.Do

2011 Orange County Fair

From whimsical carnival rides to trendy bands, the 2011 Orange County Fair themed “Let’s Eat” offers entertaining, family-oriented activities and plenty of food options. Staying true to its theme, the fair provides eating competitions, deep-fried Oreos and chef demonstrations featuring culinary stars from the Food Network and Bravo TV. Located at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa, the fair runs from July 15 to August 14 and operates Wednesdays through Fridays from noon to midnight and Saturdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to midnight. General parking is $7. This year, the Orange County Transportation Authority is bringing back the OC Fair Express with shuttles from six different park-and-ride lots, including one located at Junipero Photo by Heidi Mefferd Serra just east of the San Diego Freeway in San Juan Capistrano. One-way fares cost $1.50. The bus runs Fridays from 3 p.m. to midnight and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. until midnight. On a musical note, the OC Fair features a variety of artists, some of which include alt-rock band Weezer, Disney star Selena Gomez and the Scene, Bill Cosby and country musician Blake Shelton. Tickets for the fair are $11 for general admission, $8 for seniors, $6 for kids and free for children 5 and under. Tickets for the carnival, sports arena and Pacific Amphitheatre can be purchased separately. For more information about the event and pricing, visit ocfair.com. — Halee Michel

saturday

San Clemente Ocean Festival 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

The annual two-day “Greatest Show on Surf” at the San Clemente Pier area with water competitions, games, contests on the sand, car and art exhibits, fishing derby, food, fun and much more. Avenida Del Mar and Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.440.6141, www.oceanfestival.org.

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Victoria Skimboards World Championship of Skimboarding 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Two-day skimboard contest at Aliso Beach. 31131 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280, www.ocparks.com.

New Grooves 9 p.m. Live music at Molly Bloom’s.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Patriots Day Marine Car Wash 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Car wash at South Shores Church to benefit Dana Point VFW Post 9934. 32712 Crown Valley Pkwy., Dana Point, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

Tim Fuller Slack Key Concert 8 p.m.-10 p.m.

The final slack key concert of the summer at Hulaville.

Tickets $5. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

Bat Walk II 7 p.m.-9:15 p.m. Take an evening walk with bat biologist Stephanie Remington at The Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Donation $10-$15. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

Dana Point Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Fresh produce and much more every Saturday at La Plaza Park, intersection of PCH and Golden Lantern in Dana Point.

Live Music Cruise: Wheeland Brothers 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Dana Wharf’s Saturday music cruise.

Full bar onboard. Tickets $19. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

The Badfooters 9 p.m. Live music at Molly Bloom’s.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

Wine Tasting 1 p.m.-8 p.m. DaVine Food & Wine hosts wine tastings every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Cost $15-$18. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

Salsa and Sangria 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Event at the Ritz-Carlton. Price $40 per person. 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

Eric Heatherly 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

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Hotel California & Elton The Early Years 12 p.m.; 8:30 p.m. First a tribute to The Eagles at noon, then at 8:30 p.m. a tribute to Elton John at The Hanger at the OC Fair. Tickets $15 each show. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 800.745.3000, www.ocfair.com. ocVertigo 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Dance/party band at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

sunday

Gone Fishin’ Exhibition 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica’s exhibit featuring fishing memorabilia and artifacts. Admission $5. Exhibit on display until August 14. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

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Concerts in the Park 4:30 p.m.-6 p.m. The City of Dana Point presents a free concert at Lantern Bay Park featuring The Whiskey Jack Band. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org.

Oklahoma 7:30 p.m. Saddleback College presents a fresh and vibrant take on an American classic with performances through July 31. $27. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

Morning Breeze Cruise 10 a.m. Ocean Institute.

Tickets $22-$35; member discounts. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Whitey Harrison Exhibit 10 a.m. Visit the Ocean Institute’s memorial exhibition of surf legend Whitey Harrison. Runs through August. Fee $6.50 adults, $4.50 kids.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Signature Safari Capt Dave’s Safari has daily departures for whale and dolphin watching on a high-tech catamaran with underwater viewing pods and more. Call to get times, pricing and more info. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Wilfax Trio 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Summer concert series at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER 7.15 Mostly Sunny H: 69° L: 57° 7.16 Sunny H: 72° L: 60° 7.17 Sunny H: 76° L: 63°

7.18 Sunny H: 78° L: 66° 7.19 Sunny H: 79° L: 67° 7.20 Sunny H: 81° L: 67° 7.21 Sunny H: 80° L: 65° www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

monday

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Zach Churchill 6 p.m.9 p.m. Acoustic rock at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www. renaissance-danapoint.com.

Cooking Class: Italian Inspired Dinner 6:30 p.m. Italian-inspired cooking class at Antoine’s Café with Chef Caroline Cazaumayou. $50 per person, includes dinner, recipes, wine and more. Call for reservations.

218 South El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

Soccer Camp 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Jaime Arroyo Soccer Academy (JASA) runs its three-day award-winning summer soccer camp at Forster Ranch Park #6; ages 6 to 15 are welcome. Cost $100, includes T-shirt. 3207 Camino Vera Cruz, San Clemente, 949.291.2678, www.jasocceracademy.com.

tuesday

WaterWorks: Soak Up the Science 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Exhibition on the world of water at the Discovery Science Center.

Adults $12.95, kids $9.95. Open daily. 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

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SC Times Restaurant Spotlight

The Little Kitchen 24831 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.276.7799, www.yiscafe.com BEST KNOWN FOR: Family-style Asian fare MOST POPULAR ITEM: Orange zest chicken Moving up the coast from San Diego County, The Little Kitchen is John Yang’s fifth restaurant. While the other stores, in Vista and Oceanside, are designed for quick bites, this Dana Point location brings a large dining room and open kitchen for a change of pace.

Yang, who hales from Beijing, focuses mainly on Chinese dishes on the expansive menu, but also features dishes from Japan, Hong Kong and Korea. “We have a chef from Shanghai who is very Photo by Cory Saul talented,” Yang said. “He has been working with me for 10 years.”

With a menu boasting the likes of a seared ahi tuna salad, smooth Japanese kabocha pumpkin soup and Shanghai duck, it’s a wonder the prices aren’t any higher. “We only use the best ingredients,” Yang said, “and we price our meals so that eating out won’t cost much more than dining at home.” The menu has various vegetarian options as well. Yang says he is proud to be a new part of the Dana Point community. “We want to become part of the neighborhood. The people are great, and it’s just so beautiful here.”

PRICE RANGE: $5-$19 RESERVATIONS: Yes

PAYMENT: Cash, credit HOURS: Daily, 11 a.m.-midnight.

Go to www.danapointtimes.com and under “Getting Out” share your thoughts about this week’s restaurant.

wednesday

Poul Pedersen 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live acoustic talent at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Captain James Cook’s Travels 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Special presentation at the Ocean Institute featuring cruise line speakers and Ocean Institute volunteers. $7, or $25 for a family of four. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Two-for-One at the Wharf Dana Wharf has half price on all fishing trips. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com

Free Style 7 p.m.-10 p.m. New rock band at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Ben Powell 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Hart & Soul 7 p.m.-10 p.m. ’30s and ’40s music at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.

Mission SJC’s Historical Exhibit 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Visit Mission San Juan Capistrano’s historical collection featuring rare paintings, religious artifacts and more. Free with admission $5–$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

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AT THE MOVIES

BY Megan Bianco

The Trip is Worth It

W

e all have our own opinions and ideas of what movie stars or rock stars are like in real life. And if we favor certain stars more than others, then we’ve thought about it more than once after seeing them perform. But if celebrities are as fabulous and great looking as they appear on screen or stage, then clearly they have surpassed doing normal stuff like the rest of us mere fans. With Michael Winterbottom’s recent BBC release in theaters called simply, The Trip, appears a glimpse into two modestly successful comics who do have normal and even boring habits just like us.

Real life British comedians Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon star as fictionalized versions of themselves on a road trip across England to dine and chat in some of the country’s best restaurants.

Film version of Coogan agrees to write a few pieces for The Observer on his take of the food hot spots when offers for big-shot film projects in the states fail to materialize. His young American girlfriend has suddenly left him for an internship in New York as well. So rather than travel on his own, he

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

By Cory Saul

invites his old friend and colleague Brydon on the trip.

The Trip has been gaining a lot of notice for the stars’ impressions of famous and recognizable film stars while dining and driving through the country. Brydon, who seems to make a living making impressions of celebrities in his comedy acts, challenges Coogan to “do” better impersonations of Michael Caine, Al Pacino, Hugh Grant and Woody Allen to name a few. Winterbottom’s feature is actually in fact, an hour and 45-minute edit of Coogan’s and Brydon’s BBC comedy series of the same name.

Those familiar with the series and have watched the first season might find the film cut of the footage a little redundant and unnecessary. But those who are new to the duo’s act will find Coogan’s frustration met with Brydon’s enjoyment while on the road entertaining. SC Megan Bianco is a senior at Cal State Northridge majoring in Screenwriting and Film Criticism. A 20-year resident of San Clemente, Bianco is also a graduate of the California Conservatory of the Arts and JSerra Catholic High School.

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Brandon Wildish 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live acoustic music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Rabbi Blue 7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

90 Minute Sunset Harbor Cruise & Beyond 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Cruise offered by Dana Wharf. Adults $25, kids (3-12) $15. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

thursday

Monthly ThirdThursday Wine Tasting 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

The Market at Monarch Beach hosts a wine tasting dedicated to wines that you can bring to any grilling or BBQ event. Cost $30 each, includes six tastes, light fare and a bottle of Sirah. RSVP. 24040 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point, 949.429.8750, www.monarchbeachmarket.com.

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Thumbelina 11 a.m. The Dana Point Library present the Puppet and Players Little Theatre in a show featuring classical marionettes, hand puppets and live performers combined with dazzling sets, lights, and music. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

Tijuana Dogs 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. A regular favorite at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Nik & Sam 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live acoustic music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Smoothie Jones & RedX 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

DS aannCale mPoe ni te nt

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

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

Just What the Doctor Ordered

Children’s Hospital of Orange County patients enjoy a day of fun in Dana Point

By Austin Reagan Dana Point Times

S

ometimes the best treatment can be a day spent outdoors, as was recently discovered by a group of young patients from the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). On Thursday, June 30, 12 of CHOC’s outpatients took part in a day of fun in the sun organized by Miracles for Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial and emotional support to the families of young children with potentially life threatening illnesses. The participants, ranging in age from seven to 16, arrived at the Dana Point Harbor in the morning, with a long day of activities planned ahead of them.

Many local businesses lent a hand in making the event a success. The day started with group stand-up paddling sponsored by Hobie Surf Shop, followed by a beach cleanup and lesson in marine conservation led by environmental group Ocean Minded. Chipotle provided lunch before the children took an educational and interactive tour of the Ocean Institute. The day was the first in a series of summer outings put together by Miracles for Kids in order to break up the monotony of hospital visits and treatment, which can be very hard on the young patients.

“Today’s event has been quite a success,” said Tom Swanecamp, one of the program’s directors. “It is great to see the kids out enjoying the summer day and just being kids.”

On the tour of the Ocean Institute, the children—who come from all over Orange County—were able to observe marine life in its natural habitat. The group excitedly walked over to a tank of starfish and sea anemones where they were

Zoe Hunter (center) looks at rays and guitarfish in one of the Ocean Institute tanks as fellow CHOC patients and Miracles for Kids’ Tom Swanecamp (far right) look on.

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

Tom Swanecamp, a Miracles for Kids director, looks on as two young CHOC patients check out the sea life in the touch tank.

This sibling duo was all smiles during their visit to the Ocean Institute with Miracles for Kids. Photos by Madi Swayne

given permission to feel the animals using a “two-finger touch.” One girl, Zoe Hunter took quite an interest in the activity, and spent her time observing the creatures and pointing them out to her friends. Zoe, who has recently completed treatment for leukemia, described the day as “so much fun,” and constantly had a smile on her face. Suzanne Hunter, Zoe’s mother, said, “Miracles for Kids has saved her life and has been the greatest support anyone could imagine. I am so grateful for the program and all that is does.”

Another participant, Alissa Dolegowski, raved about the paddleboarding activity they had done earlier. Alissa, who is blind, said that she really enjoyed being out in the water and would love the opportunity to stand-up paddle again. She experienced the institute’s sea life in a different way than the other children did, feeling their shapes and textures rather than seeing them.

In addition to helping guide children and families through the process of treatment, Miracles for Kids works to provide financial assistance to those who may need it in light of medical expenses. Pegah Shakeri, who works for the organization, explained that Miracles for Kids helps cover the rent, mortgage, and bills of families whose children are undergoing treatment. “I am so proud to work with Miracles for Kids,” said Shakeri. “It is truly rewarding to see the good that it does and to watch people grow from the challenges that we help them to overcome. It is good karma.”

Miracles for Kids receives most of its funds through Page 12

The Ocean Institute offered plenty of up close views of ocean life for Miracles for Kids participants.

grants, private donations and public fundraising events held throughout the year. Partnering with CHOC has allowed the group to expand.

In the final room of their Ocean Institute visit, the children were able to see jellyfish and sharks and touch stingrays, all the while adhering to themes of conservation and respect for ocean wildlife.

Chano Moreno, the group’s bus driver, whom the kids affectionately refer to as “The Boss” said, “It brings me so much joy to watch the kids and see them getting out of the hospital to do fun things like this. I love working the patient route at the hospital because the kids are always so happy and excited.”

Miracles for Kids plans to continue these day-trips throughout the summer. DP ON THE WEB: www.miraclesforkids.org, www.ocean-institute.org. www.oceanminded.com, www.hobie.com and www. chipotle.com www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING Once Upon This Coast: By Doris I. Walker

Nature Still Surrounds Us in this Urbanized Setting S ometime in the past century—after the San Diego Freeway had cut through and cultivated southern Orange County with urban crops, but before many of today’s residential communities had sprung up—the first cable television service arrived in a phenomenal facility built in the yet undeveloped southeastern wilderness of this county.

Its grand opening took the press into rugged, previously undriveable inland territory. Suddenly, as we drove into the unfamiliar back country, there loomed before us a large, startlingly futuristic building. On its roof had been planted a forest of relay antennae and capture Doris I. Walker dishes that rivaled what now crowns the peak of Old Saddleback Mountain, which had been around forever without the need for skyward extensions.

We entered into an even more amazing interior. The walls were completely lined with action-depicting television monitors, bringing in live news happenings from all over the world. They danced, pranced, sang, yelled and reported to us—all at once!

This cable introduction party was in itself an event to remember, since up to then the hills that embrace us had prevented the intrusion of television signals for most of the south county. Our world news had come only on rabbit ears turned toward San Diego. Needless to say, we were impressed with this new magnificent equipment, knowing all the while that our lives had suddenly been given a new Dimension (the name of the pioneer cable company, as a matter of fact.)

As that pivotal evening drew to a close, we stepped outside into a completely different scene. The dark of night had settled down around the new building, and no lights yet lit the parking lot or the roughed-in, unplanted landscaping. However, a full moon highlighted the distinctive silhouette of the Santa Ana Mountains and foothills.

The cable signals had finally scaled them to reach greater powers in the sky.

Then, instead of the multiple television monitor voices all talking in discord, a well coordinated chorus of coyotes was howling its harmonious a capella song of the ages up

Each simple trail can lead the way to the sounds of a chorus of coyotes singing a capella to the appreciative moon.

Photo by Doris Walker

to the glorious full moon. They were out of sight but very near, surround sounding the cultivated communications complex. It was as if they had been hired to remind us that—despite the grand changes and “progress”—these great open lands of the Far West and their native creatures were not to be overlooked or considered history.

The moon and the mountains will hopefully be here forever, and the masterful canine singers have only been limited in territory. Fortunately, we still have these natural treasures. The friendly, rounded silhouette of the Santa Ana Mountains still dominates the inland horizon of this otherwise relatively low-rise county. We still have unfettered views of the ocean. We still have waterways and watersheds, which reward us with the sound of rushing water and waterfalls (in wet seasons).

We still have the diversity of the canyons with their individual personalities and winding roads that add mystery to the edges of the urban scene. We still have the protected national forest and the scenic trails leading into and through its depths. And now we have nature

The Real DP?

Kenny’s Monthly music jam part of pilot for possible reality series

By Evelyn Caicedo Dana Point Times

A

mong the young and eager musicians ready to perform on stage Wednesday during Kenny’s Music Store’s monthly open mic night, a camera crew set up to document the evening in hopes of making Dana Point’s music scene the star of a new reality television show.

“We are filming a pilot for a reality show which will revolve around all musicians in Dana Point,” said Kimberly Williams, owner Kenny William’s wife. “In this area it is so unbelievable because we have so many musicians of different calibers of talent.”

Hennessey’s Tavern and Kenny’s Music Store began the monthly open mic night to reach out to more children and help keep music education alive, store owner Kenny Williams said.

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

Camera crew filmed Kenny Williams, right, and Kimberly Williams, left, give Barbara Bonds, president of the SOCSA foundation, $1,500 to benefit the music department. Photo by Evelyn Caicedo

“It warms my heart that these kids go up on stage without fear and do what they love,” he said. “I hope that they learned how it is to play with the community. It’s all about pulling together and supporting each other.”

Page 14

preserves, reserves, conservancies and an unparalleled array of wilderness parks. There coyotes still sing to the dependable phases of the masterful moon that rises and descends predictably above the natural night scene.

Since most of Orange County was under the ocean until a few eons ago, its natural history has even included marine life from the era when the sea reached the feet of the mountains. Those ancient animals left behind their fossil remains to remind us not to forget that early dimension of our natural history. We who inhabit or visit this county today have an easier trek into the wild areas than even a century ago. We have a network of roads and trails, directional brochures and descriptive books explaining the onsite natural wonders. Tours and excursions are available year-round, thanks to our Mediterranean climate.

There are so many unique encounters awaiting us— whale watching, tidepool touring, kayak cruising, cove crawling, mountain or rock climbing, trail blazing, river canoeing, creek cruising, lake and ocean fishing, grunion runs, owl prowls, bat hikes, butterfly and hummingbird gardens, wildflower discovering, bird watching on land and sea—a lifeline of natural adventures. And let us not overlook the pure vistas—to the sea, to the hills, to the wilds all around us. Venture out!

As New England author Richard Henry Dana said of this place; he had visited in 1835: “There was a grandeur in everything around, which gave almost a solemnity to the scene.” For the most part, the grandeur is still with us somewhere close by. © 2011 by Doris I. Walker This article is adapted from the introduction to Doris Walker’s book, “Orange County, a Natural History.” It is one of a dozen she has written and illustrated about the history and lore of Orange County. After being raised and educated near two of the Great Lakes, Doris made the grand leap to California and has chosen to spend the rest of her life in Dana Point. She recently published one of the many children’s stories she wrote for her two sons when they were young—“The Test of a Nest.” Now she is completing one for all ages—“In Touch With Whales”—which describes and illustrates her own adventures here and in Baja California whale lagoons.

The jam had many familiar faces, such as Barbara Bonds, president of the South Orange County School of the Arts foundation. She received a $1,500 check to benefit the music department.

The Williams raffled off several of their in-store guitars to make the donation.

Max Bennett, a friend of Kenny Williams and multiGrammy winning musician, came out to support the effort, along with Dana Point Mayor Scott Schoeffel, who donates his monthly City Council pay to SOCSA. Dana Point City Council members get $8,200 a year in base salary. “[I came to this event] because of the terrific mission Kenny and Kimberly have for these children which is to make music education accessible to young and growing kids,” Schoeffel said after playing his electric violin on stage.

The night came to a close at 10 p.m. with more than 15 performances.

“Music is an important part of any well-rounded education. These kids needed a place to express themselves musically,” Kimberly Williams said. “We get some of the same kids coming in month after month and they come in so incredibly alive. You see them growing and progressing every single time they perform. That is awesome.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

Locals Only

Business Directory

The only directory featuring Dana Point businesses exclusively AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING Jim Ettinger Design 949.246.0224 33742 Big Sur St., jimettingerdesign@cox.net Nona Associates - Raymond J. Nona A.I.A. 26901 Camino de Estrella, 949.496.2275 www.raynona.com

ATTORNEY James D. Hornbuckle, Esq. 949.499.7370 34204 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.dixonlawcorp.com

BEAUTY SALONS Azalea Salon & Boutique 949.248.3406 24452 Del Prado Ave. Ste. A, www.azaleasalonandboutique.com Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 949.248.8595 34192 Violet Lantern #2

Bookkeeper / Organizer

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net 949.661.3200 J. Hill & Associates 949.488.7653 Dana Point Dental 949.661.5664 State Farm/Ted Bowersox 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy. #204 34270 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. A, www.hillrealty.org 34080 Golden Lantern, Ste 201, www.tedbowersox.com Lantern Bay Realty 949.661.6441 www.danapointdental.com 34179 Golden Lantern, Ste. 103, INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT www.lanternbayrealty.com 949.464.3243 Maureen B. Fletcher Interior Design 714.889.9597 McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Properties Monarch Beach

momofletcher@gmail.com Norma Mardian Interior Design 949.492.6271 33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629 www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com www.nminteriordesign.com Prudential California Realty, Shirley Tenger Jeweler www.tengerteam.com 949.487.7700 Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 NFL Flag South Orange CountY RESTAURANTS 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com Who wants the opportunity to play for one Brio Tuscany Grille 949.443.1476 of their favorite NFL teams? NFL Flag South JUNIOR WATERMAN PROGRAM 24050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com Orange County combines the safety of flag Ocean Academy 949.218.4464 Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.0855 football with the fun and excitement of being www.oceanacademy4u.com 34661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.com an official NFL player. All players receive a Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 free reversible NFL Flag team jersey with Junk Removal 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, registration. Boys and girls ages 5-14 Green Dump Truck 949.697.4517 www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com should enroll now at www.NFLFLAG.com or www.greendumptruck.com

DENTISTS

call 949.303.0328 for more information.

DOG GROOMING

Dawgy Style Accurate Bookeeping 949.412.5345 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. 112, lisathebookkeeper@yahoo.com www.todawgystyle.com

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

949.388.8102

Pacific Waves Family Chiropractic 949.436.2926 & Alternative Healthcare 24632 San Juan, Ste. 230, www.pacific-waves.com

CHRISTIAN CHURCHES 949.661.3151

COFFEE SHOP Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.248.1007

FITNESS PROGRAMS

CHIROPRACTORS

Christian Science Services 34102 La Plaza

delta G electrical

949.360.9282 CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com

ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, www.abcembroideryshop.com

949.350.4692

Fit Club - Boot Camp 949.831.7984 www.afitclub.com Jazzercise, O.C. Sailing & Events Center 34451 Ensenada Place, 949.492.7817 www.danapointjazz.com

GIFT BASKETS

HANDYMAN SERVICES Robert’s Professional Handyman Services Lic. # B853695

949.606.6425

HAIR SALONS

COSMETICS

ICE CREAM Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

Insurance Services

Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 949.496.1900 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, Patricia Powers License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.net www.marykay.com/madams2

949.248.1007

SURF LESSONS 949.218.4464

Surf Shops

LOCKSMITH Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6919

Girl in the Curl Surf Shop 949.661.4475 34116 Pacific Coast Hwy., www.girlinthecurl.com Infinity Surfboards 949.661.6699 MUSIC INSTRUCTION 24382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.com Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 Jack’s Surfboards

949.276.8080 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com 34320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com Danman’s Music School 949.242.4431 TUTORING 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com

PET GROOMING Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy #112, www.todawgystyle.com

949.496.3315

English Tutoring by Susan 949.481.0481 Mathnasium 949.388.6555 32411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com

Upholstery

PIZZA

Under-Wraps Gift Baskets 949.291.0300 Beach Cities Pizza

mariannedorsey@cox.net, 34473 Golden Lantern St. www.giftbasketsbyunderwraps.com 34155 Pacific Coast Hwy.

Monarch Bay Haircutters 949.496.1957 20 Monarch Bay Plaza COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES Paragon Salon 949.489.1955 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. San Clemente Computer & Network Services 949.661.1664 daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Utopia Salon 949.661.1664 Solution Tek-nologies 949.400.0080 Barry Gary 949.231.9755 www.solutiontek-nologies.com Morgan 949.433.3960 24582 Del Prado, #B, www.barrysutopia.com CONTRACTORs - GENERAL Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728 Design & Build #464468

949.697.1770

ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 34135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, www.abcembroideryshop.com

Sunburst Landscaping 949.632.0081 Ocean Academy www.sunlandscape.webs.com 949.493.3670 www.oceanacademy4u.com

EMBROIDERY

CATERING

Rocky Taylor Landscaping rjls@cox.net

LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS

ELECTRICAL

CAFE - DELI

Smokey’s House of BBQ 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

949.496.3315

SIGNS

LANDSCAPING

949.496.0606 949.496.2670

Plumbing Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com Mission Plumbing & Heating 949.492.4303 www.missionplumbingandheating.com

PRESCHOOLS San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, sanclementepreschool@gmail.com

PRINT SHOP Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net Printing OC

949.388.4888 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

Dana Point Upholstery 949.240.2292 24402 Del Prado Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

WINDOW CLEANING Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

Window Coverings Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

YOGA Sun Salute Yoga Studio 949.371.6097 24655 La Plaza, Ste. A, www.sunsaluteyoga.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY DP DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

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

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.

GARAGE SALES YARD SALE, CAPISTRANO BEACH Saturday 7/16 from 8am to 2pm. Household items, Furniture, Some Collectables, Plants, LOTS OF PLANTS! 26321 Via California GARAGE SALE SATURDAY JULY 16, 2011 Tools, clothes, TV’s exercise equipment, Household Items. 7:30 am – 2 pm. 26326 Vía California, Capistrano Beach, CA.

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

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 102

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

Page 17

www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS

5 Best Bets

Stories, scores, schedules & more

5

DP

SOCCER

DP SURF

D a n a Po in t

DP

Scoop S on the local a n C le m eDnate n a Po in t surf community

Real Madrid vs. LA Galaxy, LA Memorial Coliseum July 16, 7 p.m.

Landon Donovan and company host Spain’s Real Madrid in a key match that is part of the World Football Challenge.

Info: www.lagalaxy.com

MUD RUN

WOMENS BASKETBALL

BASEBALL

KAYAKING

Summer of Mud Irvine Lake

Mystics vs. Sparks Staples Center

Rangers vs. Angels Angel Stadium

July 17, 8 a.m.

July 17, 5:30 p.m.

July 19, 7:05 p.m.

Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club Dana Point Harbor

Get ready for a great time at the Summer of Mud run at Irvine Lake. The event features two start times, a beer garden, food and more.

The Los Angeles Sparks finally return home after eight games on the road and will prep to face the Washington Mystics.

After a three-game series with the A’s, the Angels head back to the Big A to face Texas in a battle for first place in the West. Info: www.

Info: www.irvinelakemudrun.com

NFL Flag South Orange County Taking Sign Ups through August 31

By David Zimmerle Dana Point Times

ven though the players and owners of the NFL remain at a stalemate on whether the 2011 season will happen, part of South County won’t have to worry about it—in a way.

NFL Flag South Orange County, a program that is part of the National Football League, is taking sign ups for its upcoming flag football season. Boys and girls ages 5 to 14 can look forward to this fun, no-contact sport while donning the jerseys of some of the most popular franchises in the NFL. Organized by Dana Point resident Nancy Vos, the inaugural season is set to kick off September 10 with all games being played at St. Mary’s School in Aliso Viejo, at 7 Pursuit, Aliso Viejo.

“My son Zachary likes all sports but he’s particularly obsessed with football, so this is kind of something that inspired me to get this league started,” Vos said.

“Every player gets to play on the field at least 50 percent of the time, so they’re on the field for both offense and defense. They really get a chance to get involved with the game and just have fun.”

Four divisions and their future teams will consist of a combination of age and skill set.

“The league organizers are going to do everything they can to make sure teams are as fair and balanced as pos-

E

sible,” Vos said.

Parents and players can also look forward to the following advantages of NFL Flag South Orange County: (N) No Contact/No Blocking—safety is paramount, (F) Fun for Everyone—focus is on participation, not skill level or outcome, (L) Life is Busy—the league is convenient with one practice and one game per week, (F) Fair—participants play at least two quarters and receive equal playing time, (L) Lessons for Life—in addition to football skills, players learn teamwork skills that help them, succeed both on and off the field, (A) Action packed—40-minutegames are fun to play and watch, (G) Good Sportsmanship—that is both emphasized and awarded.

Games will be on Saturdays from September 10 through October 29.

The final day for players to register for the upcoming season is August 31.

Cost is $155 per player and includes a reversible NFL flag jersey and flag belt and eight weeks of officiated play, Courtesy photo including the season-ending tournament and awards.

To register online, visit www.nflflag.com and click on “Join a League.” Next, enter your zip code and select NFL Flag South Orange County.

More information is also available by calling 949.303.0328 or by emailing nflflagsouthorangecounty@ gmail.com. DP

Surf ForecasT Water temp: 66-70˚F Water visibility and conditions: San Clemente: 8-12’ Poor-Fair; Catalina: 15-20’+ Fair Remarks: Holding South-Southwest swell and minor Northwest windswell offer a fun mix of surf on Thursday. Surge is moderate along the coast and visibility is relatively low, making for poor-fair conditions overall.

Short range: Size is in the 3-5’+(waist-head high+) zone on Thursday as South-Southwest groundswell and small Northwest windswell hold steady. Our Southern Hemi swell fades Friday, mixing with continued Northwest windswell for 3-4’+(waist-shoulder high+) waves through the day. Conditions look clean for the mornings and fair to good overall.

Long range: Fading, fun surf prevails over the weekend as old South-Southwest swell fades and small Northwest windswell continues.

Conditions look clean for the mornings, with size in the 2-3’+(knee-waist-chest high) range at good breaks on Saturday. Size is down slightly on Sunday. Stay tuned to Surfline.com for updates.

Dana Point Times July 15–21, 2011

Page 18

losangeles.angels.mlb.com

July 20, 5:30 p.m.

Unwind from your weekly grind with a nice kayaking session with Outdoor Adventure Fitness Club.

Fees do apply. Info: www. outdoorfitnessonline.org

Grom of the WEEK Colton Overin

Photo by Christina Scannapiego

Age: 15, San Clemente High School Colton Overin just finished up his first year on the SCHS surf team as a freshman, and even though he placed well in the events he surfed, Colton aims to spend his summer perfecting his array of airs and air reverses rather than dwelling on improving heat scores and dreaming of putting that jersey back on come fall. And with the talent to attract sponsors like Hurley and San Clemente’s new Catch Surf, chances are the heat scores are sure to follow suit, anyway. Aside from his upcoming trip to the South Shore of Kauai, you’ll find this regular footer at Riviera or T Street, occasionally at Lowers (“but it’s hard to deal with the crowd,” he added) with his friends or videoing with Catch Surf. As for bigger plans, one of Colton’s future goals is to eventually break into big wave surfing, tackling monsters like Maverick’s or Teahupo’o. “I want to be one of those guys who takes a beating,” he said, having 15-foot Steamer Lane and Cottons under his belt so far. His other goal? To “hopefully make a good name for myself, work in the surf industry, have a steady job, start a family, surf and have fun.” —Christina Scannapiego

UPCOMING EVENTS

July 16: Groms Rule Surf Contest, San Clemente Ocean Festival, Pier July 23: WSA Menehune Surf Fest, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street July 30-August 7: U.S. Open of Surfing, Huntington Beach, Pier www.danapointtimes.com