Dana Point Times

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, EVENTS AND MORE S E P T E M B E R 7–1 3 , 2 0 1 2

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 36

www.danapointtimes.com

Election 2012 kickoff: Get to know the City Council candidates, in their own words.

Doheny Days and Tall Ships Festival Top Entertainment Calendar

Former Chamber CEO Nichole Chambers Arrested

Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa and First Guests Celebrate 25th Anniversaries

GETTING OUT/PAGE 10

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

DP LIVING/PAGE 13

EYE ON DP

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

DP

D a n a Po i nt

CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR Del Obispo, 949.248.1419, rfwlr61@ yahoo.com, www.vfwpost9934.org

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

Composting Workshop 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Learn about “The Magic of Composting” at a workshop presented by the city’s Community Services and Parks Department at the Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street. Admission is $10 and registration must be completed by September 7 either in person or online at www.danapoint.org. For more information, contact Jennifer Anderson at janderson@danapoint.org or 949.248.3571.

Planning Commission Meeting 6 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.248.3563, www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 VFW Veterans Assistance 1:30 p.m.- 3 p.m. Dana Point VFW Post 9934 is offering free veterans’ benefits and veteran services membership assistance on the second Tuesday of each month at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 South Coast Water District Meeting 6 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, 949.499.4555, www.scwd.org CITY COUNCIL RETURNS AFTER SUMMER BREAK: The next City Council meeting is scheduled for September 18, 6 p.m. at City Council Chambers, 33282, Golden Lantern, 949.248.3501, www.danapoint.org.

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

...Former Chamber CEO’s Arrest?

THE LATEST: Nichole Chambers, former President/CEO of the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, was arrested Wednesday, August 29 on charges of grand theft. Chambers admitted her financial wrongdoings against the chamber in her November 2010 resignation letter.

Chambers was hired in December of 2007. Charges were filed against her on August 21.

Dana Point Chief of Police Lt. Lynn Koehmstedt confirmed the Orange County Sheriff’s Department issued a warrant for her arrest on August 24, and she surrendered August 29 at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. Chambers was booked into the Central Women’s Jail in Santa Ana. Bail was set at $130,000.

Chambers faces three felony counts of grand theft with enhancements.

Farrah Emami, spokeswoman for the Orange County District Attorney’s Office said three sentence enhancements were attached to the charges—theft in excess of $100,000, aggravated white collar crime over $100,000 and property damage over $65,000.

Russell Kerr, Dana Point Chamber of Commerce board chairman, said he could not comment on specifics of the case, but that since turning Chambers’ admission letter over to authorities, the chamber has successfully weathered the storm despite the scandal and financial impact on the organization and the organization has been progressively moving ahead.

WHAT’S NEXT: Chambers’ arraignment hearing and bail review is set for September 13 at the Harbor Justice Center.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit danapointtimes.com. —Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times September 7-13, 2012

2

say contradict Inouye’s claim that such a meeting is illegal.

“What we’re not trying to do is punish anybody,” Strauss said. “We wish to take back the organization and put in place a board that is going to prepare for the 2013 elections that will take place in December—open elections based on the previous bylaws, not the bylaws as amended by Inouye on June 19.”

According to Strauss, Save Our Bookstore has sent hundreds of petitions asking for member support in voting to oust the board. So far they’ve collected 66 signatures—about 22 percent of the estimated 300-member organization—more than the needed 5 percent, he said.

…South Coast Water District Election?

THE LATEST: Six candidates are vying for three seats on the South Coast Water District Board of Directors.

The two incumbents are President Wayne Rayfield and Director Richard Gardner. Rayfield was elected to the board in 2008 and previously served on the Dana Point City Council. Incumbent Vice President Ingrid McGuire will not seek reelection.

The two are challenged by: Dick Dietmeier, who previously served on the board for eight years; San Clemente resident Gary Langdale, a former board director; newcomer Rick Erkeneff; and former Dana Point Councilman and Mayor Joel Bishop, who served on the board for 10 years.

WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting is scheduled for September 16, 3 p.m. at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road.

FIND OUT MORE: Log on to www.danapointtimes.com to read more.

Strauss’ letter to Inouye is published in the Soapbox section of this issue as a letter to the editor. —AS

WHAT’S NEXT: In the coming weeks, the Dana Point Times will provide comprehensive coverage of all the elections with interviews and updates.

4

FIND OUT MORE: Visit ocvote.com for more information. —Brian Park/AS

3

…Friends of the Library?

THE LATEST: After calling a meeting of Friends of the Dana Point Library members, Save Our Bookstore, the group seeking a recall of the current Friends board, responded strongly to President Terry Inouye’s dismissal of the meeting’s legality in last week’s issue of the DP Times.

Save Our Bookstore Secretary Paul Strauss, sent a letter to Inouye and other board members outlining the sections of the California Attorney General’s Guide to Charities and its reference to the California Corporations Code which they

…a Lost Swimmer?

THE LATEST: Orange County Lifeguards and Sheriff’s Department divers on Wednesday morning made what was likely their last attempt to search for swimmer Frank Daniel Austin, 34, of Rowland Heights, who went missing off of Salt Creek Beach Sunday.

Jason Young of Orange County Lifeguards said Wednesday’s 3½-hour dive was essentially the final attempt divers would make. Initially, lifeguards received word that the man may have had a history of epilepsy, but Young said this had not been confirmed.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to Young, there were high surf warnings posted along the

Page 3

beaches over Labor Day weekend, advising swimmers and surfers to take precautions in the dangerous conditions.

FIND OUT MORE: Stay tuned for updates.

—Jim Shilander

5

…Back to School?

THE LATEST: Wednesday marked the first day of school for Capistrano Unified School District students and like many district schools, Dana Hills High School bid adieu to and welcomed several new staff and faculty members this year.

According to Principal Jason Allemann, Dana Hills saw 12 teachers retire last year.

Allemann also noted that the incoming freshman class will bring 690 new students. Last year’s class was 680.

“Dana Hills is always attempting to evolve and offer students meaningful and relevant curriculum and has added a number of new classes in the last two years,” Allemann said. “These classes—such as Biotechnology, Green/Sustainable Energy, Multimedia Design and Sports Medicine— are geared toward student interest as well as responding to a need for this knowledge and skill in business and industry.”

WHAT’S NEXT: All CUSD high school students will also have the opportunity to take classes at California Preparatory Academy, the district’s new independent study high school. The school will allow students to take high school courses and UC and CSU approved classes for college credit via a combination of virtual classrooms and one-on-one instruction. Students may also be dual enrolled at both their home high school and Cal Prep.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information on Cal Prep, visit www.calprep.org.

To find out more about other CUSD schools, see capousd.org. —AS www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Four Candidates, Two Slots DP Times election coverage kicks off with an introduction to the four Dana Point City Council candidates, will continue weekly through November 2

n a presidential election year, it’s easy for local races to be overshadowed by national news. The Dana Point Times wants to be your source of information on the individuals seeking your votes in races that will affect life closer to home.

This week we kick off our ongoing election coverage by introducing the four candidates vying for two open seats on the Dana Point City Council.

One of the two open seats is being vacated by Mayor Lara Anderson who has termed out, and the other by incumbent City Councilman and attorney Scott Schoeffel who is seeking re-election.

Schoeffel will be joined on the ballot by Planning Commissioner Norm Denton, retired professional engineer and former Historical Society President Carlos N. Olvera and business development manager Ed Stevenson.

City Council hopefuls are competing for a chance to make a difference in the

future growth of Dana Point via ongoing projects such as the planned revitalization of Town Center, Doheny Village and the Harbor. They are also asking voters to entrust them with preserving and improving the quality of life in the city with regard to issues like public safety, the budget, recreation opportunities and tourism.

Our coverage will continue by providing weekly candidate statements, question and answer interviews and other information necessary to help voters make informed choices on Election Day, November 6.

Have a question you would like to pose to candidates in local races for City Council, South Coast Water District or the Capistrano Unified School District Board?

Send an email to aswayne@danapointtimes.com and we will consider including it in the Q&A section of an upcoming issue.

Following are the unedited City Council candidate statements as submitted to the City Clerk’s office.

Statements are presented here in random order.

NORM DENTON Dana Point Planning Commissioner

CARLOS N. OLVERA Retired Professional Engineer

J. SCOTT SCHOEFFEL Dana Point Councilman/Attorney

ED STEVENSON Business Development Manager

From Capistrano Beach to Monarch Beach, the Lantern Village and all neighborhoods in between, Dana Point is truly one of the best places to call home.

Serving on our Planning Commission continuously since 1997, (several terms as Chairman), I have a front row seat to every major project currently shaping Dana Point. I’ve participated in challenging land use issues with the Headlands, Town Center, Harbor, Doheny Village, General Plan updates, and protection of historic buildings.

As an owner/partner in successful startup businesses and then Executive VP of a public corporation working with hundreds of employees and resellers worldwide, I’ve developed budgets, set goals, growing annual sales from $10,000,000 to $168,000,000 in eleven years incurring no debt.

I’ll bring my commitment, commonsense, and ideas to the City Council for continued responsible and financially sound management of Dana Point. I’m up to speed on the issues and ready to get to work.

Dana Point’s ocean economy must not be taken for granted. My love for our oceans began as a U.S. Merchant Marine during the Vietnam War, and continues today, enjoying sailing with my family.

I’m endorsed by Mayor Anderson, all my fellow Planning Commissioners, community leaders, and I respectfully ask for your vote. www.normdenton.com

My dedication to Dana Point is a demonstrated passion, beginning with election to my HOA board. I supported cityhood and was appointed a charter member of the Dana Point Planning Commission, becoming the second chairman.

I was chair of the Underground Utility Committee where I completed three of the four districts. I introduced the historic preservation goals in the General Plan and city codes. Today we have over 30 structures listed on the historic register.

I have been president of the Dana Point Historical Society for nine of its 25 years.

The originator of the News Drogher and founder of the Dana Point Heritage Museum are my contributions to the city’s history.

My experience expanded county wide as Foreman of the OC Grand Jury.

Implemented recommendations included adding fire stations as a safe haven for unwanted babies and a restructure of Orange County organization which continues today. That experience continues with an appointment to the OC Historical Commission.

I enlisted in the Navy and retired as Commander USNR. My professional career is as an engineering manager in oversight, operation and maintenance. I am goal orientated.

All of this will make me an effective representative of Dana Point residents.

Thank you for electing me to the Dana Point City Council in 2008 and serving as your Mayor in 2011.

Dana Point has a strong and enviable financial position with a balanced budget, deep reserves, no unfunded pension liability, and no debt. We have upheld our standards of public safety, street and park maintenance, and quality of life for our residents.

I have worked hard to foster local business and spur economic development by serving on the Doheny Village Specific Plan steering committee, initiating the City’s new Dana Point Destiny business roundtable, and supporting the marketing efforts of our major hotels.

If you’ve seen me at our Summer Concerts or playing the electric violin, you know one my great passions is music. I have made music, arts and culture a high priority by co-founding the Dana Point Symphony and spearheading formation of the City’s new Arts and Culture Commission.

I’m proud to invest in our youth by donating all of my City Council and related compensation to fund public school music education in Dana Point and will continue to do so.

Please vote for proven community leadership to ensure Dana Point, Capistrano Beach and Monarch Beach remain magnificent places to live, work and play. www.scottschoeffel.com

Our family has lived in the City of Dana Point since 1998. On any given day, our family as well as all the residents of Dana Point can enjoy a spectacular view of the harbor, coastline, and headlands.

The preservation of our city’s beauty and the opportunity for all residents to live in a safe, financially secure, and robust environment are the cornerstones of my campaign for member of the City Council.

My credentials are a B.S. Degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from C.W.Post, Long Island University, and a diverse work history in management from both the public and private sectors.

Grass roots politicians and small business entrepreneurs have always been driven by servicing the needs of the community. In my lifetime, I have worn both hats.

Dana Point’s greatest days are still to come. Our community is that American shining city on the hill. A vote for me keeps our city shining.

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

I

Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

Page 5

NEXT WEEK: The Dana Point Times will introduce the six candidates vying for three open seats on the South Coast Water District Board of Directors.

www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

DP Sheriff’s Blotter SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMPILED BY KEVIN DAHLGREN 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, September 4 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino El Molino, 34400 Block (9:32 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a neighborhood in which two males with flashlights were seen looking into residences. The duo was said to be driving a gold-colored sedan, but no further description of the suspects could be given.

INDECENT EXPOSURE La Serena Drive, 34000 Block (1:39 p.m.)

A woman called police after witnessing a

male transient urinating in the backyard of the house next door. The caller said the transient appeared to have been living in a tent behind her back fence for a few days.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Castano Drive/Selva Road (7:54 a.m.)

A woman wearing a yellow bandana and a blue sweatshirt was seen rummaging through trash cans on the street. The caller stated every morning around 7 a.m. a white van drops off several people who then proceed to dig through trash cans for a few hours.

Monday, September 3 DISTURBANCE Moonfire Drive, 24500 Block (8:30 p.m.)

A woman called police after three unknown males skateboarding down the street began to “say mean things.” The caller said she was afraid the boys’ behavior could cause someone to retaliate and harm them.

DISTURBANCE La Cresta Drive/Street of the Ruby Lantern (12:41 a.m.) A very loud argument that reportedly began inside a residence was now occurring outside on the street. A man told police his neighbors could be heard having a “very heated” argument somewhere outside the residence. He later called back to report that the female was now chasing the male down the street screaming very loudly.

Sunday, September 2 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (8:05 p.m.) A resident called police to report an ongoing problem of several transients drinking and smoking drugs in a covered parking garage. The caller reported the group appeared to be set up to spend the night in the garage as they had been doing for well over a week.

ILLEGALLY PARKED VEHICLE Silver Lantern, 34000 Block (2:58 p.m.)

Police were called to a crowded parking lot where an unattached horse trailer was being stored and taking up multiple parking spaces. The trailer was ticketed and the owner was contacted and asked to move his vehicle.

BRANDISHING A WEAPON Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (1:35 p.m.) Police were called to investigate a

DISTURBANCE Dana Point Harbor Drive/Pacific Coast

NEWS BITES

Highway (2:10 p.m.) A report was received of a man in his 50s who had defecated in the pedestrian bridge elevator.

The caller told police he believed the man may also expose himself to several minors walking under the pedestrian bridge.

The man was last seen carrying a blue duffle bag and walking toward Dana Point Harbor Drive.

report of an 8-year-old boy who pulled a gun on a man as he was walking down the street. From a safe location, the man told police he was passing a group of juveniles when one of them reached into his sweatshirt and produced what looked to be a pistol. The caller told police he was unsure if the gun was real or a toy.

PATROL CHECK Camino Capistrano/Calle Hermosa (6:55 a.m.) Police were called to Pines Park to investigate a broken water line or sprinkler that was causing the street to flood with water.

Saturday, September 1 DRUNK DRIVING Crown Valley Parkway/Pacific Coast Highway (10:57 p.m.) A man following a white Bentley called police after the driver began to drift into oncoming traffic. The driver of the car was seen drinking a clear liquid from a glass bottle. The caller said he suspected the clear liquid was vodka.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Pacific Coast Highway/Ritz-Carlton Drive (10:13 p.m.) A man called police after seeing approximately 60 teenagers on the beach drinking and smoking drugs.

A second call was also received after two male teens were seen carrying a heavily intoxicated girl to the public bathrooms and throwing her onto the grass face down before leaving the area.

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO

Democratic Club Monthly Dinner Meeting September 12 u The monthly dinner meeting of the South Orange Democratic Club will be held on Wednesday, September 12 at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino del Avion.

This month’s meeting features speaker Nick Anas, executive director of the Democratic Party of Orange County, who will speak about DPOC’s local and national efforts for the 2012 campaign and election.

Anas is past president of the Orange County Young Democrats.

Buffet dinner is at 6 p.m. and costs $17 for

Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

members and $20 for non-members. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. Please RSVP by September 10 by email to kenton805@cox. net.

For more information, call 949.248.1681 or visit tutorandspunkys.com.

Ocean Institute to Present Surfscience Teen Conference

Meet and Greet for Singles Over 50 September 13 u The next meet-and-greet event for South Orange County singles ages 50-andup will be held Thursday, September 13, from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. There is no admission fee and happy hour prices will be available for wine and domestic beer. Tutor and Spunky’s is located at 34085 Pacific Coast Highway.

u The Ocean Institute will present the 5th Annual Surfscience Teen Conference on Saturday, October 13 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Conference is for students in grades 8 to 12 who are interested in surf and ocean science and finding out about related college and career paths.

Teens will have the opportunity to meet researchers and students of Scripps Institution of Oceanography in San Diego, test

Page 6

oceanographic equipment used in surf zone experiments, explore the Hydraulics Lab and learn about ongoing research projects and techniques.

The $15 registration fee includes lunch and transportation from the Ocean Institute to Scripps. The Ocean Institute is located at 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive in the Dana Point Harbor. Register online at www.oceaninstitute.org or call 949.496.2274.

Have something interesting for the community?

Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@danapointtimes.com.

www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

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

DP

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. 5, Issue 36. 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 2012. 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

EDITORIAL Senior Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Accounting Manager Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@danapointtimes.com

Sports & News Reporter > Steve Breazeale

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

City Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

Sales Associate > Angela Edwards

DISTRIBUTION

BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

OPERATIONS

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Tawnee Prazak INTERNS Kevin Dahlgren, Darian Nourian

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Letters to the Editor SAVE OUR BOOKSTORE GROUP WILL HOLD MEETING OF FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY MEMBERSHIP PAUL STRAUSS, Dana Point

I would like to share a letter I wrote, as secretary of and on behalf of the Save Our Bookstore group, in response to Terry Inouye’s comments (in last week’s issue of the Dana Point Times) regarding our scheduled special general meeting to vote on whether to displace the current Friends of the Library board.

The letter was sent via U.S. mail and email to Inouye and other members of the current board. It reads as follows: Mr. Inouye, You are quoted in the DP Times (saying) that the association is not a corporation and thus the laws applicable to nonprofit or charitable groups are not subject to the California Corporations Code, specifically those that fall under the rubric Nonprofit Corporation Law (Title 1, Division 2).

May I suggest that you follow this link to the Attorney General’s view of what are the applicable laws: http://oag.ca.gov/ sites/all/files/pdfs/charities/publications/guide_for_charities.pdf ?

Look at page 1 for whether the Friends, as a registered 501(3)(c) organization, is subject to these rules. And do yourself a favour; look at chapter 7 on page 24 which lays out the rights of voting members: • The right to inspect certain corporate records • The right to elect and remove directors • Rights to receive notice of meetings • The right to sue the directors in derivative actions on behalf of the corporation • Other rights spelled out in the statutes and in the corporation’s bylaws I have mailed to you today a notice on behalf of 66 members (approximately 22 percent) of the membership list to inform Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

(not ask) you and each member of the board of a special general meeting. I trust that no one interferes with the delivery of a U.S. mail letter directed to a specific person.

We will hold a legal meeting in a public building under the inspection of the head librarian of Orange County. I am sure that the County Sheriff would be somewhat restrained to act on spurious claims to why that meeting should not take place.

Perhaps your fellow directors will wish to discuss with you any action you take on their behalf.

Lastly, please ask June Bauer what process she used to displace the board in 2003. We are doing the same but with very much tighter controls on our procedures.

For more information, log on to www. saveourbookstore.com.

THIS IS NO PLACE FOR POLITICAL CHEAP SHOTS LYNNE KAUKER, Dana Point

Please, please, please don’t ruin our nice little neighborhood paper with political cheap shots.

I agreed with everything Dominic Carratt said in his letter “The Problem with Elections” (DP Times, August 24) except for his cheap shot against Obama.

A neighborhood paper is no place to wax about national elections. We get enough of that on the TV, internet and in national newspapers.

ECO-FRIENDLY IDEAS FOR DP JILL RICHARDSON, Dana Point

Page 8

Have you taken the free trolley in

Laguna Beach this summer? Have you noticed how full it is with people enjoying this eco-friendly transportation service?

I would like to encourage Dana Point to team up with our neighbors and extend the trolley on PCH through Dana Point and ending in San Clemente.

The last trolley leaves at 11:30 p.m.; almost all of them are full. Think of how much money Laguna Beach businesses generate because people travel from other cities, hop on the free mass transit and spend money at restaurants, shops, icecream stores, etc. Brilliant! It can happen in Dana Point as well.

Speaking of brilliant; the Summer Concerts in the Park are just that! It’s such a treat to have great music, with some amazing views, at a public park for everyone to enjoy. Thank you, city officials, for having concerts at a variety of city parks.

While I was riding my bike through Sea Terrace Park recently, I noticed how much space is not utilized. So another eco-friendly suggestion for Dana Point is to convert some of the grass area to a community garden. Sprinklers are already in place to water the grass. Why not change that area so that it can produce useful benefits instead of an area that no one uses?

Let’s create a community where people can access all the wonderful locations throughout our city, create more commerce, plant healthy gardens and build a more eco-friendly environment.

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

D a n a Po i nt

THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

friday

LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT 7:30 p.m. The Gonzalo Bergara Quartet performs at the Dana Point Community House. Tickets $25.

24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

07

AT THE MOVIES: ‘HIT & RUN’ IS RAUNCHY SLAPSTICK An endearing ex-criminal, his pacifist girlfriend, a bumbling U.S. Marshal, a white bank robber with dreads and a gay cop are the primary characters of Dax Shepard’s slapstick comedy Hit & Run. It’s strange to think how an original cast member of MTV’s “Punk’d” not only went on to become a successful comedic actor, but now a legitimate filmmaker. In his second attempt both in front of and behind the camera, he casts real life fiancée Kristen Bell, “Parenthood” co-star Joy Bryant, Tom Arnold and Bradley Cooper. When ex-criminal Charlie (Shepard), stationed in a small California town by the Witness Protection Program, discovers his girlfriend Annie (Bell) has the opportunity to work Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell in Hit & Run. her dream job in L.A., he risks everything to move there with her. But along Courtesy of Open Road Films the way, Annie’s stalker ex-boyfriend (Michael Rosenbaum), a U.S. Marshal (Arnold) assigned to watch Charlie and Charlie’s former partners in crime (Cooper and Bryant) all start to follow his tail.

Shepard not only wrote the screenplay for Hit & Run but also co-directed with David Palmer and co-edited with Keith Crocket. Bell was also a producer on the film. Hit & Run goes all out in terms of raunchy jokes and use of elaborate car chase scenes, but while some of the scenes are rather funny, one wonders if Shepard really just made the film to see how many car shots and borderline offensive jokes he could fit into one movie. —Megan Bianco

SLAM IN THE RIBS POETRY NIGHT 8 p.m. Open mic at The Rib Joint Roadhouse. Perform, beat, slam, hip-hop, haiku, spoken word or whatever you want.

34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949. 661.9500, www.ribjointdanapoint.com.

RICHARD HENRY DANA CHARITY REGATTA The Dana Point Yacht Club presents the 14th annual event on Sept. 7-9 with lots of races, fishing, SUP events, a party, auction and more. Times vary, more info: ww.dpyc.org.

MONDAY NIGHT LAUGHS 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Live standup comedy at Hennessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

THE MOTHER HIPS 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

JOHN HIATT & THE COMBO 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Call for ticket info; cost $55. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www. thecoachhouse.com.

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

TALL SHIPS FESTIVAL 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Opening day of the Ocean Institute’s three-day festival with the largest annual gathering of tall ships on the West Coast featuring tours, pirate camp, presentations, arts & crafts and more. Hours 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Adventure pass cost $8-$10 (plus member discounts); tickets prices vary for events. 24200 File photo Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

saturday

08

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.

BATMAN LIVE 7:30 p.m. Batman’s “Crime Fighting Arena Spectacular” at the Honda Center with shows through Sept. 9. Tickets start at $29.50. 2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, 714.704.2500, www.hondacenter.com.

Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

monday

MEET THE AUTHOR 3 p.m. During the Tall Ships Festival visit the Ocean Institute to meet‚ Capt. Dave Anderson, an award-winning filmmaker, whale disentangler and author of Lily, A Gray Whale’s Odyssey. Again on Sept.

9 at 1 p.m. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.talesfromthepod.com.

10

tuesday

GOOD NEIGHBORS CLUB OF CAPISTRANO VALLEY 11 a.m. The ladies group meets at Irons in the Fire for lunch with Hawaiian music and dance with Malia’s Makuahines. 150 Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.361.0586.

11

wednesday

FINANCIAL PLANNING SERIES 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. A free eight-week “It’s Your Money” workshop series at the Ocean Institute on Wednesdays. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

12

Courtesy photo

DOHENY DAYS Noon. The two-day Doheny Days Music Festival returns with an eclectic mix of popular bands and artists on three different stages, as well as attractions, food and drink and more, all at Doheny State Beach. General admission $60. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, www.dohenydays.com.

sunday

09

FALL FAMILY FUN NATURE WALK 9 a.m.-11 a.m. The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy.

Call for info, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

TIJUANA DOGS 2:30 p.m. Live music and Sunday Funday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

WHALE AND DOLPHIN TOURS Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari has 2.5-hour tours on a high-tech catamaran. Cost $55 adults, $35 children, 2 and younger free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Page 10

WEDNESDAY WINE TASTING 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Educational wine tasting at St. Roy Chef’s Pub at Vine featuring four-course food and wine pairings; menu changes weekly.

Cost $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

thursday

13

FUNKTION 5 p.m.-1 a.m.

Music by DJ Mark Moreno at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www. renaissance-danapoint.com.

FORGET COOKING-EAT RAW EVENT 6:30 p.m.8 p.m. Join raw cooking chef, Michael Miller, at The Coop as he shows you the ease of preparing gourmet meals without a stove. 1506 Calle Valle, San Clemente, 949.441.1266, www.sanclementemarket.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

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

D a n a Po i nt

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

Celebrating Silver Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa and its first guests celebrate their 25th anniversaries together

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

C

harles and Judy Stoopack of Carlsbad were not only the Laguna Cliff’s Marriott Resort & Spa’s first wedding party but also the first guests. They returned Labor Day weekend to celebrate their 25th anniversary and the hotel’s 25th anniversary, as well.

When the hotel opened in 1987 it was known as the Dana Point Resort and the Stoopacks actually checked in a few days before its official opening. As a wedding gift, the resort’s general manager at the time, Sherrie Laveroni, presented the couple with a certificate inviting them back every year on their anniversary—forever.

“It has been a very important tradition for us to visit the hotel on our anniversaries over the years. We had to miss a few years along the way while we were raising our children, but we are delighted to be here for our 25th,” said Judy. “The kids are grown and in their 20s now. We have

Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa General Manager Jim Samuels (right) welcomes the hotel’s first guests and first wedding party, Charles and Judy Stoopack. Both the hotel and the Stoopacks are celebrating 25th anniversaries. Photo by Andrea Swayne

two daughters and are hoping they might get married here as well—when the time comes.”

Charles Stoopack confessed to getting a bit teary-eyed just thinking about it, as he and his wife strolled the grounds on Saturday.

“It would be really touching if one or both get married here,” he said. “This has always been just our place and the girls have never even been here.”

Current General Manager Jim Samuels was eager to

greet the two at check in and personally welcome them back to Laguna Cliffs.

“We’re very excited to be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa, but to also be a part of such a longstanding family tradition is even more special,” said Samuels.

The Stoopacks said they’ve seen the changes and improvements made to the hotel over the years and are delighted with the improvements made during the 2010 renovation but said they’ve always loved the place most for its location and the staff’s outstanding service.

“I like the way the hotel sits on the hill and provides such breathtaking views of the ocean and harbor. It’s such a palatial setting and the hotel itself is beautiful but not overstated. A lot of hotels are nice and have ocean views but just feel stuffy or are too close to neighboring hotels. Here the greenery and the surrounding property make it feel really good; it’s such a pastoral, majestic setting,” said Charles Stoopack.

“And we are always treated very well here,” added Judy Stoopack.

Samuels also noted that in celebration of the hotel’s silver anniversary, four, 25-year employees will be honored on September 14. The mayor will present the four with an official Dana Point proclamation and they will be treated to a red-carpet reception and a luncheon in their honor, he said.

Online rate specials honoring the hotel’s anniversary can be found on the web at lagunacliffs.com. DP

A Patriotic Display Dana Point man decorates condo community for holidays, Labor Day décor a show of patriotism

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

E

arle Alford moved to Dana by the Sea in Dana Point from Leucadia a little over a year ago and immediately endeavored to get involved in his community.

The Korean War Veteran joined his homeowners’ association and quickly became a member of the city’s senior citizen group at the Senior Center.

Part of his reasons for community involvement, he said, is the desire to do things in his life that make others happy, and that includes heading up the decoration of his condo community for holidays and special occasions.

“I’m 83 years old and my mission in life is to do the best that I can do to help people and make their lives Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

more enjoyable. I’ve learned that when you help people, help comes back at you,” Alford said. “We love our country and our veterans here and I wanted to convey that message with patriotic decorations for Labor Day.” Alford lives at Dana by the Sea with his wife June. They have four children—three daughters and one son—who he is happy to report are all doing well in their careers.

“One of our girls is a registered nurse living in Ladera Ranch, one is an accountant in Tennessee and the other is in payroll management in San Jose,” Alford said. “Our son is an engineer at Oakley and also lives in Ladera. My wife and I are very proud of them all.”

The decorations went up on August 28 and will remain in place for two weeks, Alford said.

See more photos at www.danapointtimes.com. DP Page 13

Earle Alford, Dana by the Sea Homeowners’ Association Architectural Committee member, leads the effort to decorate his condo complex for holidays, including Labor Day. Photo by Andrea Maben

www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

D a n a Po i nt

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

SAN CLEMENTE VS. DANA HILLS—THE RIVALRY

Even though Dana Hills is no longer in the South Coast League, Dolphins head coach Todd Rusinkovich and Tritons head coach Jaime Ortiz wanted to keep the rivalry between their two schools intact. On Friday, the Tritons will host the Dolphins in a non-league game with all-important bragging rights on the line. There will be a lot of storylines going on when the two teams take the field; here are two to keep an eye on.

Dolphins’ defensive front vs. Tritons O-Line: The Dolphins pride themselves on their defense and it all starts with the big guys up front. Senior defensive

The Dolphins will play on the road against rival San Clemente September 7. Photo by Tony Tribolet/XPSPhoto.com

end Dalton du’Casse has been a force this season and will be up against San Clemente’s talented senior left tackle, Sean Harlow, and the Tritons big offensive line.

the Laguna Hills Invitational September 8 at 7:45 a.m.

Look for junior Gavin Diem to have another breakout year after posting the fourth fastest time as a sophomore in the 2011 CIF State Championships.

Dolphin Report

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY • The Dolphins finished second in the CIF-SS Division 1 finals last year and will again be a team to beat in 2012. Seven of the teams’ top-10 runners will be returning this year and the Dolphins will be led by the senior duo of Paige Canterbury and Aubrey Carr. Like the boys, the girls open their season at the Laguna Hills Invitational September 8 at 7:45 a.m.

By Steve Breazeale

FOOTBALL • The Dolphin football team was in the driver’s seat for most of Friday night’s non-league game against Fountain Valley at Dolphin Stadium, holding a 10-0 lead just before halftime. But a truckload of penalties in the second half derailed the Dolphins hopes of winning their first game of the season and Fountain Valley went on to win, 23-17.

The Dolphins held a 3-0 lead at the start of the second quarter when junior quarterback Mac Vail lobbed a perfectly timed ball to Logan Warren down the sideline and the senior wide out made a nice basket catch over his head, taking the ball into the end zone for a 44-yard touchdown strike to make it 10-0.

After a 28-yard pass play from Barons (1-1) senior quarterback Chris d’Entremont to junior wide receiver Jacob Church, a Dolphin defender drew a personal foul and the Barons found themselves on the 11-yard line.

D’Entremont went right back to Church on the following play for an 11-yard touchdown pass. A missed point after attempt made the score 10-6 seconds before halftime.

The Barons would take a 13-10 lead mid-way through the third quarter on a 55-yard touchdown pass from d’Entremont to wide out Jason Baker.

Another personal foul called on the Dolphins’ defense late in the third moved the Barons to the 30-yard line and,

“I’m looking forward to going up against (Harlow). He’s a good offensive tackle, I’m looking forward to some good competition in the game,” du’Casse said.

Mentor vs. Pupil: Rusinkovich played his high school football at San Clemente and was a standout linebacker under the guidance of then defensive coordinator Ortiz, which is to say the two know each other well.

“I told Todd his linebackers remind me of him,” Ortiz said. “They’re tough, scrappy guys who fly around…blitzing and dropping. We have to be ready for them.” —Steve Breazeale

Devin Rizzo-Foden, Devon Vise, Marcus Hughes and Matthew Slade right before the coin toss of the Dolphins game against Fountain Valley on August 31. Photo by Tony Tribolet/XPSPhoto.com

as they did earlier, Fountain Valley capitalized with a 26yard touchdown pass. The Barons took a 20-10 lead and never looked back.

“There were a ton of penalties… Fountain Valley capitalized on every play,” Rusinkovich said. “We left the door open for them and they took advantage.”

Vail and sophomore wide receiver Connor Hill manufactured a shot at a Dolphin comeback late in the fourth quarter on a drive that ended with a nine yard Vail touchdown run, but it proved to be too little, too late.

Next Game: 9/7 @ San Clemente, 7 p.m.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY • The Dolphins look to build on a solid 2011-2012 campaign and open their season at

BOYS WATER POLO • The Dolphins have had a productive summer, highlighted by an eighth place finish at the California State High School Championships.

Next Game: 9/7 @ Harvard Westlake, 6 p.m.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL • The Dana Hills girls volleyball team won the Foothill Queens Court Tournament on August 26, defeating some of the top teams in the county in the process. They Dolphins lost to Mater Dei 3-1 on September 4 and were defeated by JSerra 3-1 on September 5.

Next Game: 9/11 @ Beckman, 6:30 p.m.

GIRLS GOLF • The girls golf team is off to another good start, going 2-0 out of the gate. The team only lost one starter to graduation, which bodes well for the 2011 CIF Team Regional runner-up in 2012. They were set to play Mission Viejo High on September 6 at Mission Viejo Country Club. Results were not available at press time.

Next Game: 9/12 vs. Laguna Hills at El Niguel Country Club, 3:30 p.m.

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR RENT DANA POINT CONDO 1Br/1Ba $1550 mo+dep 562-688-8721

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

E-mail your garage sale to classifieds@danapointtimes.com DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY. No phone calls please.

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

Locals Only

BUSINESS LISTINGS AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING

CONSTRUCTION/REMODELING Mills Construction 949.212.7699 Dana Point, www.millsbuilds.com: CA # 973483

COSMETICS

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

949.248.2868 Nona Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.2275 Mary Kay Cosmetics & Career PLUMBING Opportunities, Ind. Sales Director - Marline Adams, 26901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com www.marykay.com/madams2 Chick’s Plumbing AUTO REPAIR www.chicks-plumbing.com ELECTRICAL SC Plumbing Dana Point Auto 949.496.1086 delta G electrical 949.360.9282 www.sanclementeplumbing.com 34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629 CA #657214, www.deltagelect.com

BEAUTY SALONS

Mobile Salon Malina www.salonmalina.com Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 34192 Violet Lantern #2

949.500.2909 949.248.8595

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

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

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

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692 Kevin

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

949.496.9731 949.366.2691

POOL & SPA SERVICE

HAIR SALONS

Island Inspired Pool & Spa 949.547.1000 Mobile Salon Malina 949.500.2909 islandinspired@earthlink.net www.salonmalina.com The Captain’s Chair 949.496.1957 PRESCHOOLS 20 Monarch Bay Plaza, www.thecaptainschairdp.com San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, ICE CREAM www.sanclementepreschool.com Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.7773 PRINT SHOP 34531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier INSURANCE SERVICES 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 949.661.3877 Patricia Powers 949.496.1900 beaconprinting@sbcglobal.net License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.net Printing OC 949.388.4888 State Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.3200 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 204 PSYCHOTHERAPY www.tedbowersox.com Statefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.8944 Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.2648 34080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.net 33971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com JUNIOR WATERMAN PROGRAM Ocean Academy www.oceanacademy4u.com

949.218.4464

LOCKSMITH

San Clemente Computer & Network Services Dana Point Lock & Security daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 www.danapointlock.com

949.496.6916

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL Surterre Properties Monarch Beach, 949.464.3243 McDaniel Gilmore Group 33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629 www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT MILLS CONSTRUCTION Dana Point, California • REMODELING • CUSTOM DECKS • REPAIRS. We are a family owned business with small town service!!! Additions • Custom finish carpentry • Windows/doors • Patio covers/arbors. Contact Jesse Mills @ (949) 212-7699, www.millsbuilds.com Mills Builds! No Stress, No Mess! LIC # 973483

SURF LESSONS Ocean Academy www.oceanacademy4u.com

949.218.4464

SURFBOARD REPAIRS Dylan’s Ding Repairs 949.607.9406 www.facebook.com/dylansdingrepairs

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

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 949.215.2323 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Clear Windows 949.485.8793 San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

DP SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK Samantha Sibley Age: 10, Concordia Elementary Samantha Sibley has been surfing since the age of 7 and already knows she wants a professional career in the sport some day. “Sometimes waves can be really fast, sometimes they’re really slow. It’s always different and I like not knowing exactly what I’m gonna get,” said Samantha. “I love how unpredictable waves are.” She also dreams of someday working with sea animals at SeaWorld and surfing all over the world. This summer, Samantha made her contest debut at the WSA Menehune Surf Fest where she took fifth in the Girls Premier division. She enjoyed competing so much, she went on to enter the Groms Rule Surf Contest at the Ocean Festival and took fourth place. This season she will compete in the WSA Championship Series in Girls U12 Shortboard. We caught up with her on the last day of summer after a six-hour session. “Right now I’m working on linking maneuvers instead of doing just one hack or cutback at a time,” she said. Samantha is a straight ‘A’ student who Samantha Sibley. Photo by Andrea Swayne enjoys school—especially history. She also enjoys being creative—singing and drawing.

Samantha credits her progress to her dad for teaching her to surf, her mom for taking her to the beach, DSC training, her Soul Surfing Team coach Chris Williams, teammates and friends for their support. “I am so thankful that my parents are letting me grow up here,” Samantha said. “I can’t imagine not living by the beach.” —Andrea Swayne

Bye Bye Blackballs, Hello Locals’ Summer

from; some say inland, some say the East Coast, and some say Europe—I’m thinking this one could have a ring of truth to it, because I have seen a dramatic uptick in white Speedos since June. But, I do know that “the crowd” means the end to conveniently located empty parking spots, the end to wide open freeways, the beginning of the SanO line and the start of non-stop complaining about “the crowd.”

However, even though “the crowd” can be a little overwhelmingly dense at times,

they do bring with them lots of great stuff too. Without them, we might not have free summer beach concerts, The Pageant of the Masters, The Sawdust Festival, San Clemente Ocean Festival and loads more crowd-friendly stuff that us locals get to take in. In a way, “the crowd” kind of gives a lot more than it takes—much like our frenemy the blackball flag.

Sure, the blackball flag divides and conquers the beach into sections like “no hardboard surfing,” “no swimming,” “no SUPing” and “no super happy fun times.”

Sometimes that can be a real bust to our plans, but it does give us a distinct line in the sand for the start of “the crowd” when the flags go up, and an end to “the crowd” when the flags come down. I like to think of the flags coming down—as they did Monday night at 6 p.m., not to be put up again until next June—as the start of Locals’ Summer, the glorious months of September and October when the weather is still warm and the water isn’t quite cold enough for a full suit. “The crowd” is gone, the kids are back in school and it’s just you and me and a south swell.

Wave goodbye to “the crowd” for awhile, grab your board, drop the kids off at school, throw a smile on your face and let’s kick off Locals’ Summer in style. See you in the water!

Tracey Engleking is the Lifestyle Athlete and Social Media Marketing Specialist for Hobie and author of the Hobie Surf Shop Blog at www.hobiesurfshops.wordpress.com.

DP

the chaotic coastal culture of Southern California while growing up in Orange County and worked his way through college at Cal State Fullerton by painting custom cars and murals.

Ocean Pacific hired him in 1982—fresh out of college—to create the poster for the OP Pro Surf Contest. Fulton went on from there to create comic strips “Radical Rick” for BMX Plus Magazine and “The Shred Brothers” for Snowboarder Magazine. His career has also included directing commercials, developing animation for Marvel Productions and paint-

ing for Disney.

Saddleback College is located at 28000 Marguerite Pkwy in Mission Viejo. Parking is available in Lot 12.

The gallery is open Monday through Wednesday from noon to 4 p.m.; Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will also be open Saturday, September 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. An artists’ reception will be held Thursday, August 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

For more information, see www. saddleback.edu. DP

As summer comes to a close, crowds disappear and area surfers get their breaks back

By Tracey Engelking Special to Dana Point Times

M

uch like no one likes a dirty beach, no one really likes blackball flags either. Sure, they have their place; the whole point of them existing in the summertime is to make the waters safer for everyone by keeping the hard boards away from swimmers and spongy boards.

I think we all begrudgingly understand the necessity—seriously, who wants their 9’8” log to cartwheel into the beach and take out a toddler from Wisconsin who just wrapped up the finishing touches on the third floor turret of her sandcastle? No one; that’s who. I’m talking about how a blackball flag signals not only the start to summer, but also the start of “the crowd”.

I’m not sure where “the crowd” comes

The Saddleback College Art Gallery will present Liquid Chapters, featuring the art of Damian Fulton, September 4 through 27.

Admission is free and the show is open to the public.

The exhibition includes Fulton’s early commissions and comic book art through recent gallery oil paintings and surfboards.

Fulton developed a love for drawing and

Saddleback College Hosts Free Surf Art Exhibit

Dana Point Times September 7–13, 2012

Skies were gloomy on Wednesday, the first day of school, but that didn’t dampen the spirits of surfers who enjoyed the un-crowded, un-blackballed waves at T Street in San Clemente. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Page 18

SURF FORECAST Water Temp: 70-72˚F Water visibility and conditions: Local: 10-15’+ Fair-; Catalina: 15-20’+ Fair Remarks: Mix of SSW and SSE swells, plus trace NW windswell on Thursday, with 3-4’ zone waves. Surge is light to moderate and visibility is generally fair, keeping diving conditions fair overall.

Immediate: Small blend of SSW and SSE swell, plus minor NW windswell, for waist-chest-shoulder high (3-4’) surf in the county. Light/variable winds and fairly clean conditions prevail early, before onshore flow gradually picks up out of the West to Westsouthwest through the afternoon.

Long Range Outlook: SSW long-period Southern Hemi swell holds on Friday as small S-SSE tropical swell eases for 2-4’ zone surf at well exposed spots. The southerly swell mix eases for 2-3’+ waves this weekend. Conditions will generally be clean in the mornings with light wind. Stay tuned to Surfline.com, for the new tropical swell updates.

UPCOMING EVENTS September 8-9: 16th Annual Surf for the Sea, Oceanside Harbor, North Jetty September 8-9: Cosmic Creek, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach September 8-9: NSSA Southwest Open, Event No. 1, Huntington Beach, Pier September 22-23: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 2, Donnie Solomon Memorial Red Cross benefit, Ventura, Surfers Point September 22-23: NSSA Southwest Open, Event No. 2, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty September 29-30: NSSA Southwest Open, Event No. 3, Cardiff by the Sea, Seaside Reef October 6: Surfing America Prime West, Event No. 2, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach October 6: NSSA Southwest Explorer, Event No. 3, Huntington Beach, 9th Street October 7: NSSA Southwest Explorer, Event No. 4, Huntington Beach, 9th Street October 13-14: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 3, Pismo Beach, Pier www.danapointtimes.com