Dana Point Times

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VOLUME 4, ISSUE 50

The Battle Over Bags Dana Point flooded with opinion over possible bans E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

Dana Point is considering banning single-use plastic bags, in part, because they can become litter on beaches. Photo illustration by Stacie N. Galang

www.danapointtimes.com

Settlement Bringing Improvements to Del Rey

Boat Parade Continues this Weekend

DHHS Girls Water Polo off to Strong Start

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

DP LIVING/PAGE 10

SPORTS/PAGE 16

Eye on DP

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City and Business Calendar

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

DP

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17

MONDAY, DECEMBER 26

Obispo Street. Call 949.248.3536.

Dana Point Farmers Market The Dana Point Farmers Market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in La Plaza Park, on Pacific Coast Highway north of Golden Lantern. Call 949.573.5033 or 951. 271.0669 for information on obtaining a booth.

Pajama Storytime The Dana Point Library presents: Holiday Family Pajama Storytime with the Sunshine Readers at 7 p.m.

The library is at 33841 Niguel Road.

Call 949.496.5517

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 Senior New Years Eve Dinner and Dance 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street. Call 949.248.3536.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30 MONDAY, DECEMBER 26-30

D a n a Po i nt

Senior New Years Eve Luncheon 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del

City Hall offices are closed for the holidays.

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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... A Legal Settlement?

THE LATEST: Grading and other improvements at a bankrupt housing tract on Del Rey in Capistrano Beach will be finished, under a legal settlement between the city and the company that posted a completion bond on behalf of the developer.

The settlement, with Developers Surety and Indemnity Co., was announced Monday.

The project was approved in 2008, allowing 10 homes on Del Rey. But the developer went bankrupt and the property was foreclosed on in April 2010. That left streets and other improvements unfinished, spurring complaints to the city from residents worried about runoff and other muddy messes as the rainy season approaches.

WHAT’S NEXT: The bonding company could have either paid the city for the work or hired contractors. Under the agreement, Developers Surety will oversee the work, which includes finishing the street, estimated to cost about $70,000. The work will happen “as soon as reasonably practical,” according to the settlement. Additionally, the bond company will pay the city the difference between $130,000 and the cost of completing the work.

FIND OUT MORE: See the settlement at www.danapointtimes.com —Jonathan Volzke

2

... More Promotional Spending?

THE LATEST: The City Council on Monday approved a $1.42 million plan to market Dana Point as a regional destination in 2012, over the objections of one councilman who expressed concern the project was moving too slowly.

The money comes from the city’s Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

major hotels, who have joined to create a “tourism business improvement district.”

The hotels—the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, St. Regis Monarch Beach, Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa and Doubletree Guest Suites Doheny Beach—charge an additional $3 per room per night to generate the money for the program.

The program, created in 2009, has received some criticism because nothing has launched. But Matt McNally of Agency 51—the agency hired to launch the effort—said more than 30 logos have been looked at and 50 possible taglines. The promotion, to bring more tourists to Dana Point hotels, will launch in 2012, he said.

Council members expressed concern at the slow pace.

“I’d like to see us do this, but we need stronger oversight,” Councilman Bill Brough said. “We need to get this moving.”

WHAT’S NEXT: McNally said the city is securing the trademark for the logo. The effort will kick off in 2012.

FIND OUT MORE: See the staff report at www.danapointtimes.com —JV

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... New Trustee Boundaries?

THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District Trustees on Monday rejected most proposals for new election districts, focusing on a plan that would create areas by city and high school boundaries.

Trustees were presented with five scenarios drawn up by a consultant. The areas mirrored elementary attendance areas, high-school areas and other criteria.

Trustees on Monday said they didn’t want cities covered by multiple trustee districts, such as currently exists in San Juan Cap-

istrano, which has four trustees.

The work was required because of the 2010 Census, which shows 343,291 people in the CUSD boundaries, 17 percent Hispanic. And with the passage of Measure H, voters will only cast ballots for one trustee—the one from their area. Until now, voters cast ballots for all seven.

WHAT’S NEXT: A public hearing on the boundaries is set for January 9, with a decision in the weeks following.

FIND OUT MORE: See the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.danapointtimes. com for the maps and more.

—JV

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... A New Mayor?

THE LATEST: Lara Anderson is Dana Point’s new mayor, after being selected to the largely honorary position by her council colleagues on Monday.

Anderson was elected to the council in 2004 and re-elected in 2008, receiving the most votes in Dana Point’s history.

She is also the youngest council member and mayor, according to her city bio.

Anderson is the former President of the Animal Rescue Foundation of Dana Point and has served on the boards of local nonprofit organizations such as the Dana Point Historical Society, Lantern Village Association and the Festival of Whales Committee.

She is a USC graduate. Anderson, who also served as mayor in 2006, follows Scott Schoeffel on the dais.

WHAT’S NEXT: In 2012, Dana Point Council meetings will move to Tuesday. They’ve been held on Mondays.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.danapoint.org —JV

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... More School Cuts?

THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District faces a potential $1.7 million in mid-year budget cuts, which will still stink but is far less than the feared $14 million, district officials said this week.

But the district will face the cuts without a familiar face: Deputy Superintendent of Business and Support Services Ronald N. Lebs has accepted a similar position in the Fullerton Joint Union High School District, announced Wednesday.

Lebs came to the District in July 2008, overseeing a budget that has suffered nearly $80 million in reductions during his tenure. During the same time period, Lebs helped manage resources in order to expand educational opportunities to students, including extending the District’s highly regarded two-way language immersion program, the establishment of the District’s first International Baccalaureate candidate K-8 school, and a renewed emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math instruction.

WHAT’S NEXT: Leb’s last day will be Friday, January 20. The district will initiate a regional search for a Deputy Superintendent, Business and Support Services, and will identify an interim appointment while that process is implemented.

FIND OUT MORE: See the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.danapointtimes. com. —JV

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

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

Eye on DP

The Battle Over Bags Dana Point flooded with opinion over possible bans

By Jonathan Volzke Dana Point Times

T

he debate continues on the environmental impact of plastic bags and foam food containers, but one thing’s certain: Dana Point’s discussion of a possible ban of those items has been tough on the trees.

The city has been so inundated with letters, emails and calls about the issue, that the potential ban of grocery-store plastic bags and polystyrene food containers was pulled off the December 12 City Council agenda to give officials time to sort through all of the correspondence.

“It caught me off guard…in our little town, bags are this important?” Mayor Lara Anderson said. “It’s such a divisive issue.”

Dana Point was considering a ban on the polystyrene containers, most commonly used in to-go or take-home food containers. Also on the agenda was an issue banning plastic bags, as 22 California cities and four counties have done. More cities are taking up the issue since the California Supreme Court ruled in July that such bans do not require an environmental impact report. A proposed statewide ban, however, failed in the legislature.

The key is balancing business interests against environmental interests. Businesses, especially small shops, say polystyrene bans cost them thousands of dollars to change over, while environmentalists contend the bags and polystyrene materials are the top materials polluting the ocean.

The debate is especially acute in Dana Point, a beachfront town that prides itself on being business-friendly.

But with environmental groups on one side of the issue and industry representatives on the other, the city put itself directly in the crosshairs of a statewide fight.

Californians Against Waste, www. cawrecycles.org, even has a web link with a “Bag Ban Toolkit” on its website. The page lists arguments against bags—just 3 percent are recycled, according to 2009 statistics, so the rest end up in landfills or as litter—and provides “model ordinances” on bans from Santa Clara County and the city of Santa Monica.

On the other side, the American Chemistry Council’s pro-bag website, www. plasticbagfacts.com, tells readers that 65 percent of the people who get the plastic grocery bags use them again, for anything from trash bags to lunch sacks. And, the

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Plastic bags get caught up on debris in a channel next to Pacific Coast Highway near Doheny Beach.

Photo by Stacie N. Galang

website says, “For every seven trucks needed to deliver paper bags, only one truck is needed for the same number of plastic bags, helping to save energy and reduce emissions.”

Those who have written the city are just as diverse in their opinions.

Denise Erkeneff sent the city a picture of trash bags at the lookout near the Ritz Carlton.

“It sure is sad to have some of our greatest tourism assets be represented on a daily basis so poorly and so trashy,” said Erkeneff, special-events chairwoman for the South Orange County Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation.

She included a photo of the overlook and bags super-imposed with the headline “Stay Trashy, Dana Point, Ca.” post-card style.

Her husband spoke in favor of the ban at the December 12 City Council meeting, accompanied by two students covered in plastic bags.

“I commend the city for even considering this ordinance,” he said.

Others, however, were less than complimentary.

“Much trash ends up in our ocean via runoff. I occasionally see plastic bag on the beach or in the water. But the number that end up there is miniscule compared to the number of bags in circulation,”

writes Peter Heistand of Capistrano Beach. “Why prevent me from having the use of plastic bags because of a few that go astray? If you think government rather than the marketplace needs to do something, then I encourage you to find a way to catch those responsible for plastic bag litter, but don’t deprive the citizenry from this useful product.

“By the way,” he added, “if you want to protect our ocean environment and friends that live in it, your next target must be party balloons. Ban them from car dealerships, parades, and private celebrations. I see a lot more balloons at sea than plastic bags.”

That’s thinking along the lines of Councilman Bill Brough, too. He’s generally of the mindset that government should stay out of people’s lives, and worries that if “the nanny state” starts banning bags and such, there will always be something next on the list to outlaw.

He thinks the solution is found in Smokey the Bear, of all places.

“When there was a problem with fires, they came up with Smokey the Bear, who told everyone ‘Only you can prevent forest fires,” Brough said. “They didn’t ban anything, they kept the parks open. It was an effective educational campaign.”

Brough, the only council member to oppose a ban in a preliminary vote, said Page 4

large businesses, such as grocery stores, could handle the changes, but the small shops would have trouble. He also voiced concern that bag fees—charging people who don’t supply their own bags—could lead to a lawsuit as a new fee not approved by voters as required by Proposition 26.

“The wrong time, the wrong economy to put additional burden on business,” he said.

“Having said that, I realize we’re stewards of an ocean side community…I think we should be attacking the trash ordinance on a larger scale and not just addressing bags.”

Additionally, Brough pointed out the harbor is controlled by the county, as are the beaches. And a third governmental entity, the state, controls Doheny.

“This would be what I call a ‘Swiss cheese ordinance,’” he said. “There’d be a lot of holes in it.”

As far as the impact on businesses, Chamber of Commerce President Russell Kerr said the organization is polling its 350 members in an online survey before weighing in.

“Dana Point is a coastal town, I don’t know too many people in town that aren’t concerned about the environment and pollution of the ocean and the harbor,” Kerr said. “But you can’t just conclude that things work or don’t’ work … and there’s a cost to everything. We want to hear what people want to say.”

Nearby cities might provide some research. San Clemente in January banned polystyrene and is now grappling with a bag ban. In 2009, San Clemente’s Coastal Advisory Commission drafted an ordinance to ban the bags but waited to see if state legislation would pass. When it didn’t this year, the city’s Coastal Advisory Commission recommended the city move forward with its own initiative.

Earlier this month, San Clemente’s City Council decided to hold off on banning single-use plastic bags. Instead, the council will consider the ban in the context of other city priorities late next month or early February.

At the City Council’s December 6 meeting, about six people advocated for the ban.

Council members also opted to wait for more data about whether the proliferation of bags especially near oceans was a factor in pollution.

“I’ve never caught a fish that has choked on a bag,” noted Council member Jim Dahl.

“I don’t think it’s that big of a problem.”

San Juan Capistrano has a voluntary policy against polystyrene products and bans them at city functions. Dana Point has a similar policy in place.

In Dana Point, even Senator Mimi Walters, a former Laguna Niguel councilwoman, and Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, a former Dana Point councilwoman, have urged the council to oppose a ban.

Anderson said she’s unsure what will happen when the issue returns, likely in January or February. But she knows the decision won’t make both sides happy.

“Everybody wants to do right thing, everybody want to be environmentally conscious,” she said. “The question is which way is best way to go.” DP www.danapointtimes.com

Eye on DP

News Next Door

What’s going on in our neighboring towns, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano SAN CLEMENTE

San Clemente Panel Endorses Dogs on Beaches Don Slater cut his vacation short and drove the 350 miles from Yosemite to be home in time for the Beaches, Parks and Recreation meeting Tuesday night.

His decision to return and push for San Clemente’s first dog beach proved fruitful.

The Recreation Commission voted 4-2 to approve a one-year pilot program that let dogs off lease on a one-acre swath of beach from 4 a.m. to 9 a.m. The commission’s vote still requires City Council approval, but it’s a first paw forward in a three-year long process to let pooches on the sand.

“I thought it was a good decision because it allows flexibility,” said Slater, who started

DP Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled By Jonathan Volzke All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Tuesday, December 13 HIT AND RUN Del Obispo Street, 33500 Block (11:06 p.m.)

A pregnant woman was taken to the hospital by ambulance after a hit-and-run.

San Clemente Dog Beach Now to mobilize dog owners. He hoped to be able to bring his golden retriever Dakota to the beach.

For three years, the Recreation Commission has grappled with allowing dogs in more parks and city areas, including beaches. The commission’s approved plan offered two beach areas — a northern portion of North Beach and a to-be-determined acre near Mariposa. The commissioners’ decision this week sends the plan to the City Council for final approval.

Parks Commissioners Eric Swartz and Bill Thomas both had reservations about letting dogs on beaches. Thomas said he wanted Slater’s group to take greater responsibility for the upkeep of the area, but worried they weren’t organized enough yet. Swartz expressed concern about policing dog owners, costs and liability.

KEEP THE PEACE Village Road, 25300 Block (8:46 p.m.)

A man wanted deputies to stand by while he picked up the dog in a custody-sharing arrangement. His ex-wife keeps a loaded 9 mm handgun in the home, but it’s never been used in previous disputes, the caller reported.

RECKLESS DRIVING Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (12:57 p.m.) The driver of a white Toyota was slamming on the brakes, apparently trying to get other cars to rear-end him. The car ultimately pulled into Monarch Bay Plaza.

Monday, December 12 CITIZEN ASSIST Pacific Coast Highway, 34600 Block (11:43 p.m.) A woman reported she received a phone call at work in which one of the business owners threatened to spit on her.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Capistrano Audit Calls for Higher Water Rates San Juan Capistrano water users could soon be facing another rate increase.

An audit of the city’s utility department, spurred by an $8.2 million deficit, says although rates have recently been raised, the city’s rate structure is not generating enough income to cover the deficit.

The report says past City Councils were too slow to raise rates, and the city used money from property taxes to make up shortfalls—shielding the deficit spending from decision makers. The report also noted the city’s financial staff might be stretched thin and makes too many errors.

Brisbane Bay, 23700 Block (6:31 p.m.)

A woman reported a female came to her door selling magazine subscriptions. The caller gave that woman money, but now wanted to file a police report.

DISTURBANCE Quail Run, 25600 Block (3:51 p.m.)

A neighbor reportedly told a woman he would “blow up her face” because she was sweeping the stairs.

KEEP THE PEACE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (3:34 p.m.) A woman wanted deputies to help her find her daughter, who was 17 and perhaps in a hotel room with her 16-yearold boyfriend.

CITIZEN ASSIST Via Gomez, 34400 Block (11:32 a.m.)

A neighbor cut down a tree and just left the branches lying there, a caller reported.

CITIZEN ASSIST Mariana Drive, 33800 Block (6:47 a.m.)

In another controversial area, though, the report says the city’s groundwater recovery plant will likely prove to be a good investment over the years. The city built the plant seven years ago for about $35 million, but operational issues and the discovery of MTBE in the city’s groundwater have left some questioning its value.

The MTBE issue has been addressed with a settlement with Chevron that paid for the construction of additional filters and the plant is nearing its goal of producing half the city’s summertime water needs and 100 percent in the winter, city officials said.

The city’s Utilities Commission and the ad hoc committee that shaped the audit will review the report in public session in a special meeting Friday.

See the report at www.sanjuancapistrano. org.

A man was upset that someone kept moving his trashcans off the street to make room for a car.

DISTURBANCE Domingo Avenue, 25900 Block (6:31 a.m.)

A woman said he saw a man hit a woman in the Post Office lobby.

DISTURBANCE Via Verde, 34400 Block (12:06 a.m.)

A man who didn’t realize he was talking to 911 dispatchers took the phone from a crying woman and said he was just trying to get his phone back from her. He asked that someone come pick her up because she was being argumentative. When he realized he was speaking to 911, he gave the phone back to the woman, who hung up.

Sunday, December 11 CITIZEN ASSIST Cheltam Way, 33000 Block (9:57 a.m.)

A woman who lost her phone tracked it by GPS to a home. She wanted deputies standing by when she asked for it back.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

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DS aannCalePmoe ni te nt

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

HOW TO REACH US

Dana Point Times, Vol. 4, Issue 50. 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

PRINT AND ONLINE

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

Graphic Designer > Heidi Mefferd ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

ART/DESIGN

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Sales Associate > Angela Edwards

OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, George Mackin, Rebecca Nordquist CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

GUEST OPINION: By Scott Schoeffel

Working in Harmony to Shape Dana Point’s Destiny

O

ne characteristic many excellent cities share is a diverse and healthy business community. Among other benefits, a thriving local economy contributes to Scott Schoeffel revenues needed to sustain vital city services and amenities, provides a wide array of consumer choices to area residents, and, in resort areas like Dana Point, can be a significant driver of lucrative tourism business.

The health of a city’s business community can be greatly enhanced by governmental policies and practices that help support the commercial sector, especially in today’s troubled economy. The more a city listens to its business leaders and is willing to engage in constructive dialogue on matters affecting the interests of both the city and its commercial sector, the better it should be able to shape policies and coordinate governmental action that will strengthen the community as a whole. That was the thinking behind the City Council’s formation of the Dana Point Destiny Ad Hoc Committee this past summer.

The city held its first Dana Point Destiny meeting on June 15. Approximately 15 initial committee members, representing a large cross section of our city’s commercial and professional enterprises, were invited to participate, and close to 90% of those attended the inaugural meeting. Committee members include representatives from the city’s four major hotels, the harbor merchants, and the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Since its inception the committee has met roughly once a month and the meetings are growing longer. Attendance has been high and participation has been vigorous. So far there has been no shortage of robust and creative thinking about ways our business community and city government can work together to spur economic development and improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors.

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Dana Point Destiny is different than a commercial trade or merchants’ association, such as our own Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Generally speaking, such groups work hard to create and enhance business opportunities for its members through education programs, promotional activities, and business networking. By contrast, Dana Point Destiny was specifically designed to give our city’s business leaders a forum to provide the City Council with their input on business issues as part of the city’s decision-making process. The committee’s formation was an outgrowth of the economic development initiatives I proposed at my State of the City address this past April when I was mayor. The Mayor and the City Manager are standing committee members and other city staff frequently attend these meetings where it is helpful. In the future, any issues before the city that affect local business and commerce—and many if not most of them do—are likely to be vetted by Dana Point Destiny before any official city action is taken.

Since there are so many different types of businesses operating in our community, it should come as no surprise that there will not always be a consensus of opinion among Dana Point Destiny group members on all issues. What may be good for some may be detrimental to others and conflicts are certain to arise at times. However, forging agreement is less important than identifying differences of opinion, finding common ground, and working toward solutions that harmonize as many competing interests as possible.

Even where there is a wide divergence of opinion on a topic, the City Council will still have the valuable input of all sides to the controversy and that should result in more informed and better planning and decision-making.

Since it is an official city organization, Dana Point Destiny meetings are open to the public. Committee agendas are posted

at Dana Point City Hall and are also readily available at http://www.danapoint.org.

Members of the public may express their views during the public comment portion of the agenda and are also welcome to speak on any agenda items. Public participation was sparse at first but has been growing steadily at recent meetings.

Dana Point Destiny gives the city and its business leaders an excellent vehicle to convene regularly in public to discuss matters of common interest and to pass along the benefit of that discussion to the City Council and staff. It also has a unique opportunity to help ward off potential problems as well as create substantial value for our community through the concerted action of business

Page 6

and government. In time, it could play a very important role in shaping Dana Point’s future. Stay tuned.

Scott Schoeffel is a Dana Point City Councilman.

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the Dana Point Times staff. We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@danapointtimes.com.

CORRECTION: Stacie N. Galang was the author of the Dana Point Times December 9 cover story on the Community House dispute. The author was misidentified in the print edition because of a production error.

Letters to the Editor SOMETHING FOR THE KIDS? TERRY GOLLER, Dana Point

It appears that Dana Point is developing into an economic developer dream...

Destination Dana Point. There seems to be so many planned events on the weekends, which calls for questions...Is Dana Point running so lean financially thus having to promote so many activities? Or is Dana Point actually gaining financially by excessive activities? Or is the possibility that the city is being used for the various promoters gain? Either way, the facilities in the city seem to be over tread and overused.

We have had years of long standing events but the addition of so many new ones may be out of balance. Beer fests, BBQs and Blues have their place but require the constant shuttling of traffic throughout the city.

Now, the final question: Where are the activities for the youth?

Many were hoping for the water

board property to lend itself for some youth project.

Where are the economic developers for developing things for the young people?

They are the best investment for a town with rewarding returns. Would it be possible for the city to partner with the high school for some joint activities like a battle of the bands of similar activities?

We should be able to offer our youth more than hanging out in the shopping centers which many times are restricted.

May I encourage an easing on more Dana Point events and concentrate on providing events for the local young people.

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

AT THE MOVIES ‘My Week with Marilyn’ a Love Note The iconic image of Marilyn Monroe is among the most touched upon of any other movie star in Hollywood history. Since the actress’s death in 1962, celebrities and young women have paid homage to her. Monroe’s comedies with Howard Hawks and Billy Wilder are some of the most remembered. The fact that it took nearly 50 years for a feature-length biopic shows just how much the actress portraying her has to live up to. And the chosen one here has the talent and acclaim to give it a shot. My Week with Marilyn tells the story of how a third assistant director named Colin (Eddie Redmayne) of Laurence Olivier (Kenneth Branagh) got to meet Marilyn Monroe (Michelle Williams) during the filming of The Prince and the Showgirl (1957). Colin, already fascinated with the film industry, naturally falls for Marilyn while her depression sets the film schedule back and causes Olivier near breakdown. After a decade of development, with such actresses as Naomi Watts and Scarlett Johansson to play Monroe, Williams seems an odd choice after roles in Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Blue Valentine (2010). But she pulls it off determinedly and impressively. Based on Colin Clark’s memoir, adapted by Adrian Hodges and directed by Simon Curtis, My Week isn’t so much straight biodrama as it is a love note to Monroe’s legacy. It’s only a week for Colin, but it’s one that viewers can now enjoy, too. DP — Megan Bianco

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

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D a n a Po i nt

© the Weinstein Company

The List

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

friday

Ho-Ho-Ho Down 6:30 p.m.

Local bands Dovely and Beach Cities to perform plus refreshments and shopping at BC Surf Shop, 222 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. Free.

949.498.9085, www.shopbcsurf.com.

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Levendi Wine TASTING 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. SC Wine Co. welcomes Brian Cameron from Levendi in Napa Valley. $20 for six wines with cheese, crackers & chocolate.

212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Derek Bordeaux 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music with a full band at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights 7:30 p.m.

The 36th Annual Boat Parade of Lights continues tonight and tomorrow. Boaters from all around Orange County decorate their boats and vie for awards. Watch the action from the harbor or get on a cruise offered by Dana Wharf, Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Safari, or the Ocean Institute (Dec. 16 only). 949.923.2255, www.danapointharbor.com.

saturday

Christmas in San Clemente 8 p.m. A lighthearted musical revue at Cabrillo Playhouse. Shows through Dec. 18. Tickets $15.

202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

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Chris Cram 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

Neon Nation 9 p.m. Live music at Goody’s Tavern.

206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.3400, www.goodystavern.com.

Kelly Brothers 8 p.m. Fun dance band live at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Gallery 104 Holiday Event 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

Complimentary wine tasting, food and music at Gallery 104 for the holidays. 166 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.218.0903, www.gallery104.com.

FAM Christmas Toy Drive 10 a.m. Family Assitance Ministries’ toy drive and Adopt A Family at San Clemente Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.492.8477, www.family-assistance.org.

sunday

Blue Whale Bonanza!

Capt. Dave’s Safari has daily departures for whale and dolphin watching on a high-tech catamaran with underwater viewing pods and more. Call for times. Cost $55 adults, $35 children, 2 and younger free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

18

Local Sunday Sessions 6 p.m. Event at the Cabrillo Playhouse featuring Joe Harner, Vesper and Anthony Small. Suggested donation $5.

202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

tuesday

20

Disney on Ice 7:30 p.m.

Holiday show with your favorite characters at the Honda Center. $17.50-$71.50. 2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, 714.704.2500, www.hondacenter.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.

Poul Pedersen 6 p.m. Live music at Renaissance.

24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

wednesday

21

Joey Sykes 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.

Salsa night 8 p.m.–12 a.m. Juan Carlos and his band at Brio Tuscany Grille. 24050 Camino del Avion, Suite B, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com.

Soul Food 10:30 a.m. The theme for this Soul Food at The Baha’i Center, is “Valley of Love” and will explore love and its many forms; accompanied by readings and a musical performance. Free. 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.981.8805, www.soulfoodOC.com.

Kids Storytime at the Casa 10 a.m. Casa Romantica hosts storytime for youngsters ages 3-5; free.

415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Orange County Wine Cruise 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Dana Wharf hosts a wine-tasting cruise on their luxury catamaran through the Harbor. $49 per person.

34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

thursday

monday

CD Release Party 8:30 p.m. San Clemente’s Leslie Lowe releases her latest CD Hearts Still Beat the Same at OC Tavern. Free. Suggested $5 donation, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, facebook.com/lesliemusic.

19

Monday Night Laughs 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Live stand-up comedy every Monday night at Hennessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com/dana_point.html.

Page 8

22

Tijuana Dogs 8 p.m. Live music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint. com.

Jason Toney & Jason Foster 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.

Ladies’ Night 8 p.m.–12 a.m. Dance the night away to current top-40 hits, Latin and R&B music at Brio Tuscany Grille. 24050 Camino del Avion, Suite B, Dana Point, 949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.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 m Poe ni ntet

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.

37th Annual Boat Parade of Lights Watercraft embrace ‘Santa Salutes ‘70s’ theme Dana Point Harbor has its own ‘70s show this month with the 37th Annual Boat Parade of Lights. The first two days of the parade, December 9 and 10, are complete and the bright lights and little boat city continue Friday, December 16 and Saturday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the water’s edge.

Every year, nearly 100 boaters participate in the parade in two class sizes — 30-foot and under and over 30-foot. Area boaters festoon their watercraft in colorful fashion, vying for the title of Judges’ Choice, Best Theme, Best Use of Lights, Best Animation, Most Colorful, Most Original, Best Sailboat, Best Powerboat and the perpetual trophy for the yacht club with the most entries.

Cash prizes range from $100 to $1,000, giving decorators plenty of incentive to go big.

With the 70s theme, perhaps parade goers will glimpse bell-bottoms or butterfly collars.

In the past, participants delighted the senses, adding to the lighted display blaring music, animation and costumed performers. DP Photos by Michael Abbinante/photoartbymichael.com

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Page 10

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING HARBOR HAPPENINGS

BY BARBARA MERRIMAN

Santa is a Hero, Too! W e have many heroes at Camp Pendleton. You can read about them in various news articles, or just ask their children! Members of Dana Point Yacht club were honored to be able to host 26 families, with 56 children for lunch with Santa this week.

It was a heartwarming event for us to see how excited—and appreciative—these children were.

Saturday, December 10, marked the seventh year that Dana Point Yacht Club members have hosted several families from Camp Pendleton for a special lunch with Santa.

BARBARA The tradition was started by MERRIMAN Janice Steele and Eileen Mauch, who contacted Santa Claus and made sure that he would be able to come from his home at the North Pole to give

special gifts to each of the children present. Then the ladies traveled to Camp Pendleton and distributed invitations to a section of enlisted Marine’s housing.

Each year, they have visited a different section. The invitation asks the parents to give us a gift request for each child and tell us a little something about each child, in order to help Santa out at this very busy time of year.

Carols were played on piano and flute by two of Santa’s elves, as the guests entered the dining room of the club. Guests were escorted to their tables by two other elves. There were elves helping at the door—elves helping serve the small ones at the buffet (a delicious kid-friendly buffet)—and elves helping to get the right gifts to Santa when each family came up to see him. If you can imagine an elf taller than the movie Elf—we even had one of those! He found a microphone and announced to Santa which family was coming next. We even had an elf that knew how to use a camera. I wonder how they all escaped from the North Pole to come and help at this event?

Santa came through with flying colors as he has each year, and each child was delighted with his or her gift. One of the younger children was not happy to see the chubby man in the red suit, but he handled the tears with humor, and gave the child his gift anyway!

One polite young man told Santa that when he opened his gift, it was exactly what he wanted.

The thank you notes have started coming in. Four families wrote notes before they went home, and one little girl drew a picture for Santa and told him she loved him. Other comments from subsequent emails included some of the following comments.

“This Christmas, we were feeling a little sad without daddy. He deployed last month and I just found out a second child is on the way. You made us feel very special today.”

“It was so amazing to see the joy in my son’s face when he opened his gifts. I just can’t thank you all enough. I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas.”

“We wanted to thank Santa and all the elves for the hard work and effort you put into today’s brunch. It really means a lot to me, as a service member, to see families recognized for

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Page 13

their sacrifices. We wouldn’t be able to focus on the mission without your support.”

“Thank you for everything you do. We are very grateful.”

One only had to see the delight on these children’s faces—and the faces of the young parents to understand why this event will be repeated for many years to come.

Columnist Barbara Merriman grew up in Illinois but spent many years in Connecticut before relocating to California in 1994. She is a former public school music teacher with a love for outdoor sports, primarily sailing and golf. She keeps a sailboat at Dana Point Harbor, has a passion for protecting the environment and serves on the Board of Directors at the Ocean Institute. She often travels from her Dana Point home to Massachusetts to visit her daughter, Anne, her son-in-law and their two boys. 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

Auto Repair Dana Point Auto 949.496.1086 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629

BEAUTY SALONS Paragon Salon 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy. Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 34192 Violet Lantern #2

949.489.1955 949.248.8595

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

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

949.388.8102

Ocean Ranch Chiropractic 949.584.5000 Dr. James Slusher & Dr. Ron Berman, 32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. H, www.oceanranchchiropractic.com Pacific Waves Family Chiropractic 949.436.2926 & Alternative Healthcare 24632 San Juan, Ste. 230, www.pacific-waves.com

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Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

FITNESS PROGRAMS

949.661.3151

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

COINS 949.350.4692 Kevin

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

Fit Club - Boot Camp www.afitclub.com

949.831.7984

Monarch Bay Haircutters 20 Monarch Bay Plaza Paragon Salon 34161 Pacific Coast Hwy.

949.496.1957 949.489.1955

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

COSMETICS Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career 949.248.2868 Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, www.marykay.com/madams2

DENTISTS Dana Point Dental 34080 Golden Lantern, Ste 201, www.danapointdental.com

ELECTRICAL

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

949.248.1007

POOL & SPA SERVICE Island Inspired Pool & Spa islandinspired@earthlink.net

949.547.1000

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

PRINT SHOP

SURF LESSONS Ocean Academy

www.oceanacademy4u.com

949.218.4464

Surf Shops Infinity Surfboards 949.661.6699 24382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.com Jack’s Surfboards 949.276.8080 34320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com

TUTORING Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 English Tutoring by Susan 949.481.0481 beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net Mathnasium 949.388.6555 Printing OC

949.388.4888 32411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

Upholstery

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 Prudential California Realty, Shirley Tenger www.baysidewindowcleaning.com www.tengerteam.com 949.487.7700 Surterre Properties Monarch Beach, 949.464.3243 Window Coverings McDaniel Gilmore Group Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.9569 33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629 34118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com

YOGA

Brio Tuscany Grille 949.443.1476 24050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com

Sun Salute Yoga Studio

949.371.6097 24655 La Plaza, Ste. A, www.sunsaluteyoga.com

Jeweler

PROGRAM 949.218.4464

Junk Removal Green Dump Truck www.greendumptruck.com

949.697.4517

LANDSCAPING Rocky Taylor Landscaping rjls@cox.net

949.697.1770

Sunburst Landscaping www.sunlandscape.webs.com

949.632.0081 949.493.3670

LOCKSMITH

delta G electrical 949.360.9282 CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com

949.496.9731

Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.0855 34661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.com Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.8102 32860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.1165 24845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com

LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS 949.661.5664

Chick’s Plumbing

www.chicks-plumbing.com

RESTAURANTS

Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.net Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy. #204 www.tedbowersox.com

JUNIOR WATERMAN San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Ocean Academy

www.oceanacademy4u.com CONTRACTORs - GENERAL Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728 Design & Build #464468

Plumbing

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Insurance Services

COFFEE SHOP

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

Your business here!

HAIR SALONS

CHIROPRACTORS

Christian Science Services 34102 La Plaza

BUSINESS • S P O T L I G H T

Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6919

MUSIC INSTRUCTION Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This handy, cost-friendly, go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

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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

FOR RENT 2BDRM 2 BATH HOUSE/LANTERN DISTRICT $2,300/mo-Open floorplan/Private Garage /Laundry hook ups/Quiet street/ 34056 Aurelio Dr 1 yr lease/949-240-3723

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

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Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

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Page 15

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SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

5 BEST BETS FOOTBALL

BASKETBALL

2011 CIF Championships Home Depot Center

Clippers vs. Lakers Staples Center

December 16-17, TBA

DP

D a n a Po i nt

The best of the best in California collide on the gridiron in hopes of hoisting state titles when all’s said and done. Games span two days, while times and seating prices vary.

December 19, 7:30 p.m.

With the NBA lockout now over, the Lakers take in a preseason game against the Clippers before facing its cross-town rival again on December 21.

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

BOYS SOCCER

Tritons vs. Dolphins Dana Hills High December 20, 10 a.m.

Before heading off for four days of tournament play, the Dolphins host a nonleague match against cross-town rival San Clemente High.

Info: www.dhhs.net

HOCKEY

COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Ducks vs. Kings Staples Center

Royals vs. Anteaters Bren Events Center

December 22, 7 p.m.

December 22, 7 p.m.

It’s been a rough-andtumble start for the Ducks this season, but Anaheim hopes to get back on track with a road win against the Los Angeles Kings.

After facing UCLA at the L.A. Sports Arena on December 20, UC Irvine’s men’s basketball team hosts a hoops contest against Hope International University.

Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

Info: www.ucirvinesports.com

Info: www.homedepotcenter. com

Dolphin Report: SPORTS NEWS FROM DANA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL

By David Zimmerle

BOYS SOCCER • The Dolphins (4-2-1) dropped a tough match on December 7, losing 5-2 to Aliso Niguel in nonleague action. But the team bounced back, beating Capo Valley 1-0 in the first round of the Irvine Tournament on December 9.

Vicente Ruiz got the lone goal for Dana Hills. However, the team suffered a tough 3-0 shutout to Los Alamitos High School on December 10 before regrouping that same day for a 1-0 win against Laguna Hills. Jake Allen knocked in the winner in the second half. The boys then faced Garden Grove High in the Bronze Championship on December 12 and pulled a 1-0 victory as Allen again netted another second half winner.

Next up, the Dolphins faced Beckman at home on December 14 before traveling to take on El Toro on December 16.

Next 7 days: Dec. 20 vs. San Clemente, 10 a.m.

GIRLS SOCCER • Following two straight wins to start the season, the Lady Dolphins (4-2) next traveled to take on Long Beach Poly on December 5 in pool play of the Aliso Cup Tournament, beating the Lady Jackrabbits in a 2-0 win. Danielle Spriggs and Brittany Valentine each netted one goal apiece.

The Aliso Cup Tournament next, from December 6 to 12, as the Lady Dolphins put up another strong 2-1 win against Los Alamitos High. This time it was Lynsey Gaines and Hannah Ris who each scored one goal apiece. But in their third round match against Trabuco Hills on December 10 the girls were shutout 3-0 by the Lady Mustangs. Dana Hills moved on to play Orange Lutheran in a quarterfinal match that same day, but lost 1-0 to the Lady Lancers. Megan

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

Dickmann finished with three saves at goal for Dana Hills.

The team went on to compete in the Mater Dei Tournament with a first round match against Cathedral Catholic High School on December 13. The Mater Dei Tournament lasts through December 20.

Next 7 days: Dec. 22 vs. Beckman, 3:30 p.m.

BOYS BASKETBALL • After a solid performance at the Diablo Inferno Tournament, the Dolphins (4-2) hosted a nonleague game against Laguna Beach December 6, beating the Breakers 49-45. Cory Blau led the Dolphins with 15 points while Alex Brown netted 12 points on the night.

Next, Dana Hills hosted a Saturday showdown at home against Santa Ana Valley, winning 65-23. Blau and Landon Widerberg each finished with 13 points apiece while Ian Wright netted 10 points.

The team then traveled to compete in the Beckman Tournament December 12-17.

Next 7 days: Dec. 21 vs. Canyon at El Toro, 4:30 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL • After losing 68-33 to Edison December 3, the Lady Dolphins (3-2) next lost 64-44 to Irvine in tourney play on December 7. Laura Johnson and Tori Nishihira each led with 11 points apiece. Despite back-toback losses, the team went on to beat Marina December 8, 59-52. Kristen Beckman led the team with 13 points while Emily Jaimerena netted 11 points.

Then on December 10 the girls closed out their tournament efforts with

a 49-42 win against Silverado. On the game, Johnson led the team with 17 points.

At the Ocean View Tournament on December 12, the Dolphins won their opener 60-45 against La Serna High.

Beckman led with 17 points while Katie Underwood finished with 15 points.

Next 7 days: Dec. 19 at Beckman, 7 p.m.; Dec. 20-23 at Cavalier Classic Tourney at Santiago High, TBA GIRLS WATER POLO • The Lady Dolphins (7-5) are off to a great start to the 2011-12 season. December 1 to 3 the team competed in the El Dorado Tournament and went 3-2 overall.

Dana Hills played two games on the December 1 beating Santa Monica 9-6 before edging Granite Hills of San Diego 10-8. On December 2, the girls picked up a commanding 11-2 win against Yorba Linda but closed out the tournament with back-to-back losses December 3 — a 7-3 defeat to Long Beach Wilson and an 8-6 loss to Mira Costa.

The girls hosted a nonleague game against Canyon (Anaheim) on December 6 and went on to win, 5-3. Emily Carlson led Dana Hills with four goals while Blaklee McMillen finished with seven saves at goal.

The team’s streak was upended 16-6 by the Lady Breakers of Laguna Beach on December 7. One of six different players each scored one goal.

At the Villa Park Tournament December 8-10, Dana Hills opened with a 12-11 loss to Cathedral Catholic, beat Santa Monica 7-3 and edged Troy 14-13 on December 9 before losing 7-4

Page 16

to Martin Luther King. The girls charged past host Villa Park in the final game of the tournament, winning 11-5.

The girls next faced Edison at Ocean View High in nonleague play on December 15.

Next 7 days: N/A WRESTLING • At the Cossarek Classic December 2-3, Dana Hills finished in eighth place with 120 points. Merritt Cruz (120) and Ryan Minoofar (195) each took third place in their divisions for Dana Hills.

The Dolphins then competed in the Temescal Canyon Duals December 9-10.

Next 7 days: Dec. 16-17 at Ed Springs Classic, 9 a.m.

BASEBALL • Blue Crew Baseball Camp to be held at Dana Hills High School Capistrano Community Education will hold its Blue Crew Youth Baseball Camp this month at Dana Hills High School.

Baseball skills instruction will be done by high school coaching staff, including head coach Tom Faris. Participants receive a camp T-shirt, personalized instruction on baseball fundamentals.

Campers, ages 6-14, must bring their baseball gear and clothes, including a glove, hat, bat, helmet and water.

The camp runs December 19 to 23 from 9 a.m. to noon. Drop off at the baseball diamond at Dana Hills High begins at 8 a.m. for an hour-long free pre-camp.

Camp is $200 per session with $100 going to the Blue Crew Baseball Camp, and the other $100 going directly to Capistrano Unified School District. For more information, www.danahillsbaseball.com or call Faris at 949.510.7381 or email at tcfaris@capousd.org.

www.danapointtimes.com

DP SURF

6

Grom of the WEEK Kaila Patterson

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Age: 12, Shorecliffs Middle School Kaila Patterson has been entering annual San Onofre Surf Club contests since she was 8 but this year decided to step up her competition surfing by joining the WSA Gatorade Championship Tour. “I felt like it was the right time,” she said. “I chose WSA because I always heard how fun it is and wanted to try it.” Kaila’s timing seems to be right on. She has made the finals three times so far this season and is ranked No. 4 in the Girls U14 longboard division. Lately, she has been focusing her practice sessions on walking the nose and is eagerly awaiting the completion of a new noserider board her dad Timmy Patterson is shaping for her. Kaila is planning on trying out for the Shorecliffs team next year and the San Clemente High team the following year. She also enjoys playing AYSO soccer and is a talented artist who has earned recognition at school for her skills. Kaila is an A and B student whose favorite subjects are math and art and says she would like both professional surfing and college art studies to be a part of her future. Although surfing has always been a part of her life, she really didn’t really fall in love with it until last year. Now she isn’t content unless she gets some time in the waves every day. “I have such a great time surfing. It’s my passion, and I love it so much,” she said. —Andrea Swayne

DP

D a n a Po i nt

A Breakthrough Year for Kolohe Andino SC surfer earns coveted 24th spot on world tour

By Stacie N. Galang Dana Point Times

S

an Clemente’s Kolohe Andino did by age 17 what some surfers try to do in a lifetime: make the world tour.

This week, Andino, the current topranked North American, earned the 24th slot on the Association of Surfing Professionals Top 34 for 2012. As for Orange County surfers, he’s joined by fellow San Clementean Patrick Gudauskas and Brett Simpson of Huntington Beach.

Andino has ripped to success one wave at a time and one contest at a time. This year, he took three major ASP 6-Star victories, including back-to-back wins at the SuperSurf Internacional in São Paulo, Brazil and the Quiksilver Brazil Open of Surfing in Rio de Janeiro and the Fantastic Noodles Kangaroo Island Pro in Australia. All three were key to qualifying, said ASP North America Media Manager Bobby Shadley by email.

Andino also picked up victories at the ASP 4-Star Vans Pro Junior where he won both the men’s and junior’s divisions and the 4-Star ECSC Vans Pro in Virginia Beach. Andino rounded it out with a first overall on the 2011 ASP North America Pro Junior Series.

“It’s really amazing that he’s qualified so quickly,” Shadley said by phone. “He had a massive breakthrough year.”

W

Dana Point Times December 16–22, 2011

NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 6, December 3-4, Huntington Beach, Pier First place and local finishers only. MEN: 1. Hiroto Oohara, Japan. JUNIORS: 1. Hiroto Oohara, Japan. BOYS: 1. Cole Houshmand, SC. MINI GROMS: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas; 3. Crosby Colapinto, SC. WOMEN: 1. Kulia Doherty, Rancho Santa Fe; 3. Tia Blanco, SC. GIRLS: 1. Frankie Harrer, Malibu; 2. Tia Blanco, SC. LONGBOARD: 1. Tony Bartovich, Huntington Beach. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com for full results.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Kolohe Andino, 17 of San Clemente put on an inspired performance in massive 12-15ft surf at Pipeline during the opening day of competition at the Billabong Pipe Masters in Memory of Andy Irons on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii on Thursday December 8, 2011. © ASP Kirstin

He said early into the season, Andino talked about just trying to gain experience.

“People accidentally qualifying for the world tour is pretty unheard of,” the spokesman said.

Shadley said Andino’s accomplishment also represents a changing of the surfing guard. He joins other teen-aged standouts with Gabriel Medina, 17, of Brazil, John John Florence, 19, of Hawaii and Miguel Pupo, 19, of Brazil.

In essence, the youngest surfers are taking on guys twice their age. Tour staples like 11-time world champion Kelly Slater, for example, is 39. No doubt, the newbies will be a presence for years to come.

“So there’s this big push of next generation of surfers,” Shadley said.

The ASP spokesman said Andino seems, “extremely humble and hardworking,” especially for his age.

“I think that will help carry him a long way,” Shadley said. DP

Surfing Heritage Foundation Hosts Holiday Sale, Fundraising ith the end of the year looming, the Surfing Heritage Foundation has stepped up its effort to reach their fundraising goal of $25,000 for the support and growth of the organization in the coming year. Money raised in this end-of-year push will be used for educational outreach, archiving and digitizing images, including a 120,000 plus photo catalogue from the collection of Warren Bolster—legendary surf and skate photogra-

SURF RESULTS

pher who passed away in 2006. “We realize that at this time of year, lots of worthy causes are vying for your donation dollars, but we’d like you to consider the Surfing Heritage Foundation when making your yearend contributions,” said curator/creative director Barry Haun. “Any gift, no matter the size, gets us closer to our goal.” Another way to support SHF is to do some of your holiday shopping this Saturday, December

17 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Apparel prices will be slashed by 50 percent and the selection includes brands like Reyn Spooner, Toes on the Nose, Hinano, BBR, Yellow Rat, Ando and Friends and more. Vintage Hawaiian print shirts will also be on sale for $15. Surfing Heritage Foundation is located at 110 Calle Iglesia in San Clemente. For more information log on to www.surfingheritage.org or call 949.388.0313. DP

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December 17-18: NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 7, Cardiff by the Sea, Seaside Reef January 7-8: WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 6, Midget Smith Pier Rat Challenge, San Clemente, Pier January 7-8: NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek

Surf ForecasT Water temp: 58-61˚F Water visibility and conditions: San Clemente: 10-20’ Good; Catalina: 30-40’ Good Remarks: A small new Northwest swell moves in on Thursday, mixing with our leftover Northwest and Southerly swell. Surge is light and visibility is increasing, setting up good diving conditions.

Short range: Surf size is 1-3’(ankle-knee-waist high) for most of the region on Thursday, with a few rare larger peaks for top winter exposures around the correct tides. Light winds keep the surf clean, though overall conditions are generally poor to fair due to a lack of size.

Small Northwest swell continues through the day on Friday good for more 1-3’(ankleknee-waist high) waves at better breaks. Light offshore morning winds keep conditions clean.

Long range: A new long period Northwest swell builds in through the day on Saturday.

Most areas start slow in mainly the 1-3’(ankleknee-waist high) range, with a few larger sets for top exposures in the afternoon. More Northwest swell fills in on Sunday, with clean conditions during the morning. Stay tuned to Surfline.com for updates.

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