March 7, 2014

SPRING FORWARD: SET YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD ONE HOUR SUNDAY, MARCH 9 M A R C H 7–1 3 , 2 0 1 4

LO C A L

N EWS

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VOLUME 7, ISSUE 10

Dolphin Spring Sports Preview Dana Hills High School spring sports teams gear up for new season S P O R T S / PAG E 1 4

Senior pitcher Olivia Baltazar is one of three Division 1 commits on the Dana Hills softball team that is looking to reach the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs yet again. Photo by Steve Breazeale

www.danapointtimes.com

County Agencies Discuss E-Cigarettes Monday at Dana Hills

Rain or Shine, the Festival of Whales Must Go On

Fifth Annual Mongoose Cup to Benefit Wounded Warriors

EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

DP LIVING/PAGE 10

DP SURF/PAGE 18

EYE ON DP

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

DP

CITY AND BUSINESS CALENDAR SATURDAY, MARCH 8

MONDAY, MARCH 10

Community Recycling Event 9 a.m.–11 a.m. Residents can drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the Dana Hills High School parking lot, 33333 Golden Lantern. Event will be held rain or shine. Funds collected are distributed to student programs.

Planning Commission Meeting 6 p.m. The Planning Commission meets at City Hall, Council Chambers to discuss area developments and more. Check out the meeting agenda at www.danapoint.org.

Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more are available at this weekly La Plaza Park market, 34111 La Plaza. Call 949.573.5033 to find out about renting a booth.

D a n a Po i nt

Dana Harbor Toastmasters Meeting 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Participants can practice public speaking skills in a friendly environment each Tuesday at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road. Go to http://1707.toastmastersclubs.org for more.

VFW Veterans Assistance 1:30 p.m.–3 p.m. Dana Point VFW Post 9934 offers free veterans’ benefits assistance at the Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo St. Call 949.248.1419 for more info or visit www.vfwpost9934.org for more.

TUESDAY, MARCH 11 OC Board of Supervisors Meeting 9:30 a.m. County leaders gather in the Board Hearing Room, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., 10 Civic Center Plaza in Santa Ana.

DANA POINT’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

…the Rainy Weather?

THE LATEST: Due to inclement weather last weekend and citing public safety, the city of Dana Point canceled the Dana Point Festival of Whales parade scheduled for Saturday, March 1.

Along with the cancellation, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce withdrew its annual street fair.

The city made its decision after vendors and parade participants pulled out of the events, said Brad Fowler, the city’s director of public works and engineering. Neither will be rescheduled.

An outdoor movie at Lantern Bay Park was relocated to the Dana Point Community Center, but other weekend events were canceled. Saturday, the Dana Point Fine Arts Association show was canceled, as was the SoCal Woodies car show. Sunday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club called off its Diamond Dig, but has rescheduled the event for March 9.

WHAT’S NEXT: Weather outlooks appear promising for this weekend’s events.

According to the National Weather Service, Friday night is expected to be mostly clear and in the 50s; Saturday looks sunny with highs in the 60s and Sunday should follow suit.

FIND OUT MORE: For additional info, visit www.festivalofwhales.com.

—Andrea Papagianis

2

…Electronic Cigarettes?

THE LATEST: Various agencies are teaming up this month to educate parents and the community on the prevalence of electronic cigarettes in Orange County schools.

A series of five talks presented by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

introduce attendees to various types of e-cigarettes, how they are used, health concerns and prevention tips. The first will be at Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, on Monday, March 10 at 6:30 p.m.

At Dana Hills, less traditional cigarettes and more of the electronic form are trending, said school resource officer, Deputy Mike Woodruff. The concern is this mode can still lead to tobacco addiction, he said.

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council moved the way of anti-smoking bans nationwide and barred the e-cigarette use in restaurants, parks, workplaces and other public areas. LA joins New York, Boston, Chicago and the District of Columbia in placing limits on the practice known as vaping.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not currently regulate e-cigarettes.

A proposed rule change could bring e-cigarettes under the FDA’s jurisdiction, much like cigarettes and roll-your-own tobacco products. Such a move could force companies to register, list their ingredients and limit marketing to children.

WHAT’S NEXT: Additional OCSD presentations will be held throughout the county at the Laguna Hills Community Center on Wednesday, March 19; Stanton Civic Center on Thursday, March 20; Lake Forest City Hall on Tuesday, March 25 and Rush Park Auditorium on Thursday, March 27.

Presentations in Laguna Hills and Stanton will be in English and Spanish. All are open to the public and are free of charge.

FIND OUT MORE: Contact OCSD Sgt. Mike Pixomatis at mpixomatis@ocsd.org or 714.647.1806 for additional information.—AP

3

…School Lockdowns?

THE LATEST: After receiving a report about a man possibly carrying a shotgun and locking down three area schools, Orange County Sheriff’s deputies detained and

searched a different man, similar to the original description, and discovered a handgun in a vehicle, department spokesman Lt. Jeff Hallock said.

Hallock said the man was taken into custody for possession of a firearm.

Authorities received a call around 2 p.m. on Friday about a man who appeared to have a shotgun in a vehicle, Hallock said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Sheriff’s deputies from San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point and San Clemente responded and immediately locked down three nearby schools, Marco Forster Middle School and Del Obispo and Kinoshita elementary schools.

All three schools, however, had already dismissed or were in the process of dismissing students. Deputies helped regulate traffic flow of guardians picking up their children, Hallock said.

FIND OUT MORE: Track breaking news on Twitter @DanaPointTimes.—Brian Park

4

…the Lantern District?

THE LATEST: The city’s efforts to rehab Pacific Coast Highway and the northern end of Del Prado Avenue have been underway over the past few weeks, marking the first step in Town Center Lantern District improvements for the downtown area.

Over the next two weeks, construction crews will work on PCH between Copper Lantern and La Plaza Park to upgrade sidewalks, gutters and traffic signals. The work could result in some lane and side street closures, according to a city press release.

Additionally, at the northern end of downtown, where PCH and Del Prado meet, crews will continue trenching work for electrical and utility upgrades and make curb and sidewalk improvements.

WHAT’S NEXT: Overall improvements are anticipated to last through October.

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At the end of work, PCH will become a two-way street. For the time being, detour and directional signage has been placed throughout the corridor, as well as “Open” signs for businesses.

FIND OUT MORE: Updates are posted on www.danapoint.org under the PCH/Del Prado Construction tab.—AP

5

…the Board of Equalization Race?

THE LATEST: State Assemblywoman Diane Harkey’s (R-Dana Point) Board of Equalization field of opponents was whittled down Friday as state Sen. Mark Wyland (R-Escondido) pulled his name from the heated tax board race.

In a statement Friday, Wyland said he will instead focus his efforts, and personal finances, on his educational foundation.

“At this point in my life, it is more important to me to help students rather than to achieve another political office,” Wyland said in a release.

The race between the lawmakers heated up in July when Wyland mentioned legal troubles had by Harkey’s husband Dan. Dan Harkey and his real-estate investment company were sued by investors for fraud.

A jury held him and the company viable and awarded investors some $10 million.

Harkey sued Wyland for defamation in September, but later dropped the suit.

WHAT’S NEXT: The five-member state board administers sales and property taxes, and acts as an appellate body for business and personal tax appeals. Harkey is running for the seat covering Los Angeles, Orange, Imperial, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties.

The seat is being vacated by Michelle Steel, because of term limits.

FIND OUT MORE: Follow upcoming election coverage on www.danapointtimes.com.—AP www.danapointtimes.com

EYE ON DP

Bartlett Responds to TCA Policy Changes, Internal Audit Procedural changes shed light on Foothill/Eastern TCA board of director’s policy away with the practice but noted the Foothill/Eastern board’s monetary restrictions for such approvals were stringent. She called the practice “standard operating procedure” but agreed more board, and public, oversight was needed.

To say these contracts didn’t have board approval is incorrect, Orange County Supervisor Todd Spitzer said. However, he said, the authority was given by a previous board, and the practice had become rifled in multiple contract extensions—where $25,000 consulting expenses grew to $50,000 and beyond.

Spitzer was highly critical of the practice prior to the vote, highlighting contracts with ex-legislators—such as former Gov. Gray Davis, and former Assemblymen Richard Katz and Robert Maylor—and others that had grown exponentially over the years.

One such contract is with the San Diego-based Gable PR. A $20,000 contract that was penned in December 2007 had grown to more than $500,000 in approvals by 2014, according to a TCA spreadsheet tracking the expenditures. The purpose: to work with media to “ensure balanced coverage” and “increase support in San Diego

for the 241 extension,” records show.

To Spitzer, the practice was null, as he believed funds spent without scrutiny lead to mistrust of the agency. Ultimately, he said, the “proof was in the pudding” as there was no 241 Toll Road extension.

An effort to extend the toll road from Oso Parkway, outside of San Juan Capistrano, south of San Clemente to Interstate 5 was rejected in 2008 by the California Coastal Commission and federal Department of Commerce.

A reignited attempt was rejected late last year by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board. The TCA has appealed this decision.

Bartlett said while some agency policies have served their purpose, others have not faired so well.

An ad hoc committee was recently formed, comprised of representatives such as San Clemente and Dana Point councilmen Jim Evert and Scott Schoeffel, respectively, to audit internal happenings, Bartlett said. The committee is addressing concerns raised by the board and could present recommendations for operation changes and refinements at a meeting later this spring, she said. DP

WELFARE CHECK Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (3:00 p.m.) Front desk employees contacted authorities after a woman, who arrived by cab, refused to stay at the hotel because “they hire minorities.” The woman had no mode of transportation.

man. A witness said the man left but returned 10 minutes later and became verbal.

was stumbling into traffic while attempting to sell crocheted hats.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (1:31 p.m.) A man with messy gray hair was seen urinating in a dumpster.

Thursday, February 27

Tuesday, February 25

DISTURBANCE Del Prado Avenue, 24800 Block (7:24 p.m.) A verbal altercation escalated when a bald man in his 30s began making sexual gestures toward the caller.

TRAFFIC HAZARD Pacific Coast Highway/Palisades Drive (8:09 p.m.) Officials received word of a possible rockslide after a caller drove her Fiat over rocks in the roadway. The driver believed her tires were blown out but would not leave the vehicle to check.

Neither the driver nor a passerby who stopped to help could provide authorities with an incident location. Officials located the rubble and said it was “minor.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Andalucia Drive, 0 Block (5:07 p.m.)

A redheaded man wearing a camouflage shirt, pants and rubber boots was “creeping around” bushes near the 14th hole’s tee box at Monarch Beach Golf Links.

The man held a long pole in his hand and appeared to be hiding.

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

A

s the 15 member Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency’s governing body unanimously reversed a 6-year-old statute authorizing the chief executive officer and chairperson to spend funds outside the public’s scope, one thing became clear: More transparency was needed.

This agency body oversees the county’s toll road system, including the 133, 241 and 261 toll roads.

The board rescinded a 2008 provision on Feb. 13 granting the CEO authority to sign contracts of up to $25,000 for legislative support and legislative strategy measures. Two weeks later, CEO Neil Peterson was put on leave. TCA officials confirmed his leave but would not elaborate on the reasons behind it.

Peterson, who was appointed in 2013 according to the agency website, was criticized along with Chairwoman Lisa Bartlett in light of contract approvals not being brought before the full board.

While CEO’s could execute certain contracts alone, anything more than $25,000

DP Sheriff’s Blotter SPONSORED BY

Dana Point Police Services www.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com COMPILED BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS 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 website.

Friday, February 28 DRUNK DRIVING Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (10:54 p.m.) The driver of a white Nissan Versa was weaving in and out of traffic lanes and running red lights. The driver was last seen in a fast-food drive thru.

CITIZEN ASSIST Jeremiah Drive, 247000 Block (6:17 p.m.)

A city tree fell down and was lying across the caller’s lawn.

Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

The Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency board of directors oversees the 133, 241 and 261 toll roads. File photo

needed the board’s authorization. But a provision written into the budget in 2008 allowed the chairperson to waive the limit.

Bartlett, the mayor of Dana Point, defended the “widespread” practice.

In governing bodies across the nation, contract approvals of certain amounts are authorized without full body consent—a practice followed in Dana Point, San Clemente and other municipalities, as well as within the Orange County system.

Bartlett joined her colleagues in doing

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Dana Bluff West/Via Verde (3:58 p.m.)

Two women were reportedly “rolling joints” in the backseat of silver sedan near Louise Leydon Park.

Wednesday, February 26

INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWN Del Prado Avenue/Street of the Copper Lantern (6:54 p.m.) Orange County Fire Authority authorities responded to a man down report. Multiple callers reported a man, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt, shorts and running shoes, lying in traffic lanes. A passerby reportedly helped the man off the road.

DISTURBANCE Del Obispo Street/Pacific Coast Highway (3:00 p.m.) A beanie-wearing man is his 20s threw rocks at an apparently homeless

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Doheny Park Road/Victoria Boulevard (5:32 p.m.) Deputies performed a patrol check for a 60-year-old drunken man who

PETTY THEFT Del Obispo Street, 34100 Block (9:59 a.m.)

A 50-year-old man with gray, shoulderlength hair walked into a business and took a cell phone off the caller’s desk. The man was wearing a denim jacket and was carrying a bag full of bread.

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Monday, February 24 ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via California, 26300 Block (4:33 p.m.)

Orange County Fire Authority officials responded to a complaint of a neighbor burning yard waste.

ABANDONED VEHICLE Via Lenita/White Sands Street (2:26 p.m.)

Officials checked on an abandoned car that was sitting atop jack stands and had no wheels. The vehicle’s registered owner was contacted. The owner assured authorities the car’s wheels would be reattached and it would be moved.

RECKLESS DRIVING Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (10:24 a.m.) Authorities were notified of a swimsuit wearing female who recklessly drove through an apartment complex parking lot in a green convertible before stumbling into a unit. www.danapointtimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

EDITOR STORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Papagianis, 949.388.7700, x112 apapagianis@danapointtimes.com ADVERTISING

DP

DS aannCale m

Poe ni ntet

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

PRINT AND ONLINE

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

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@danapointtimes.com BILLING Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

Dana Point Times, Vol. 7, Issue 10. 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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

ART/DESIGN

OPERATIONS

EDITORIAL

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

Finance Director > Mike Reed

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Accounting Manager Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

> Lisa Cosenza (San Clemente) > Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Catherine Manso, Madison May, Tawnee Prazak, Jenna Ross, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

PUBLISHER’S LETTER: by Norb Garrett

Lots to Celebrate at Picket Fence Media S

ince the DP Times celebrated its sixth anniversary this February— hard to believe, isn’t it, where did the time go—we wanted to take a moment to thank all of our readers and advertising partners for your continued support. It is truly our honor to serve this amazing community every day, online and each week in our paper, and we couldn’t have done it without you.

In an effort to take our efforts even one step further, we’re thrilled to announce the hiring of a new sales/marketing person to our team: Lisa Cosenza.

Lisa comes to us after spending the past 20 years working in community media with the Los Angeles Times community media group, where for the past 10 years she was the director of advertising for all of their community newspapers and websites. Like all of us, she has a passion for community media and brings knowledge and experience to our team.

Join us in welcoming Lisa Cosenza (right) to the Picket Fence Media team. Also pictured (L to R) sales asociate Debra Wells and Lauralyn Loynes, associate publisher of PFM. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

While Lisa will work across our network of community media properties, such as the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch, she will primarily focus her attention on San Clemente alongside longtime San Clemente Times sales/marketing rep Michele Reddick and associate publisher Lauralyn Loynes (who

also heads up our efforts in Dana Point).

Debra Wells continues to focus on The Dispatch and the San Juan Capistrano area.

We have lots of great new projects planned in 2014 and are excited to continue to expand our reputation as your best source for local news.

We invite you to stay connected, not only to our print edition, but also to our online editions and other popular social media outlets such as Facebook and Instagram.

Adding a one-touch bookmark to the home screen of your cell phone or tablet is a great way to stay connected to our websites for up-to-date local news. And for those of you who use iPhones and iPads, it’s now even easier than before.

Search www.danapointtimes.com (or any of our other titles) in your browser and a convenient prompt appears which will allow you to add a home screen button to our publications.

CLARIFICATION: Comments from Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett, who also serves as chairwoman of the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency board, did not make it in before press time last week for a story about the board’s recent vote to change the way certain contracts are approved. The board voted unanimously to do away with a 2008 resolution giving the CEO authority to approve “legislative support” contracts of up to $25,000 outside of the public’s eye. For contract extensions, the board’s chair was required to sign off.

Bartlett’s comments are included in an online version at www.danapointtimes.com and a follow-up story on page four.

Please reach out to Lisa and help us welcome her to the Picket Fence team at lcosenza@picketfencemedia.com or call her at 949.388.7700, ext. 111.

It’s going to be a great year! DP

Letters to the Editor DO OUR DANA POINT OFFICIALS GET WHAT WE ARE SAYING? STEVEN MOSS, Dana Point

So far it appears that the Planning Commission might not get what many residents are trying to tell them about the Doheny Hotel: Height, traffic impact, possible tsunami zone problems, water usage impact, loading zone on Pacific Coast Highway and not to forget parking problems and the issue of giving away park space for them to build parking spaces.

Then many of us didn’t realize how this could also impact the other hotels in the area that currently only operate at a 60 percent occupancy and what they bring to our fair city in tax revenue. What would we do if they left? What impact would that Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

bring us? Do we really need another hotel?

I hope Mayor Lisa Bartlett is looking into this with a clear conscious that is not being impacted by the generous campaign contribution given to her by the hotel’s developer.

Attending the last Planning Commission meeting showed that consultants did not do their due diligence when looking into the above, or turned a blind eye. If the variance and land give away goes through, which it shouldn’t, then those elected— like the Mayor—will most likely face lawsuits and never get re-elected.

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.

Doheny Hotel plans call for a more than 250-room two- to five-story structure at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Pacific Coast Highway. The hotel’s developer, Beverly Hills Hospitality Group, is expected to present updated plans at the Planning Commission’s April 14 meeting. Rendering courtesy of Langdon Wilson International

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www.danapointtimes.com

GETTING OUT

3

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

DP

D a n a Po i nt

THE LIST

AT THE MOVIES

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT FOR ‘THE WIND RISES’ Those of us who grew up in the 1990s remember enjoying entertainment brought to us by Disney and Nickelodeon. At the same time the Japanese animation Studio Ghibli introduced the family cult-classics, Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989), Princess Mononoke (1997) and Spirited Away (2001). Ghibli now brings us its latest fantasy adventure, The Wind Rises. The animated tale shows the vibrant life and career of Jiro Horikoshi (voiced by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) as he dreams and studies to be a great airplane designer. From childhood to adulthood, Jiro’s relationships with his younger sister Kayo (Mae Whitman), his soulmate Nahoko (Emily Blunt), his best friend Honjo (John Krasinski) and grouchy boss Kurokawa © 2013 Nibariki - GNDHDDTK (Martin Short) unfold against the backdrop of the Great Depression and World War II. William H. Macy, Stanley Tucci, Mandy Patinkin and Elijah Wood also provide voices for the American dubbing of the film. Director Hayao Miyazaki, who received a Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination for The Wind Rises, is considered one of the greatest animation directors of all time. In The Wind Rises, he takes a more subtle approach compared to Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle (2004). The beautifully drawn sequences, along with historical references, may actually interest older viewers more than younger audiences. This only goes to show that animation appeals to all ages. While Disney and DreamWorks move forward with computer animation, 2D animation stays vibrant through Ghibli. —Megan Bianco

BOW WOW WOW AND GENE LOVES JEZEBEL 8 p.m. Rock/pop groups in concert at The Coach House.

Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

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

friday

GEORGE FRYER & THE CATCH 6 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Listen to classic-rock tunes while enjoying a wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Five wines for $20. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

07

LORD OF THE STRINGS CONCERT: LAURENCE JUBER 7:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. Laurence Juber, two-time Grammy winner and Wings lead guitarist, performs at the Dana Point Community House. $25. 24642 San Juan Ave., 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

DEREK BORDEAUX 7:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. Live music at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

saturday

WHALE OF A BEACH CLEANUP 9 a.m.–noon.

Celebrate the return of California gray whales by getting debris off the beach before it washes out to sea and poses a threat to marine life. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.6172, www.dohenystatebeach.org.

08

MARIACHIS AT THE MISSION 10 a.m.–11:15 a.m.

Enjoy live mariachi music at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Free with admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

BING EXHIBIT RECEPTION 6 p.m.–9 p.m. Event at the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center featuring Bing Copeland and a timeline of Bing surfboards. Admission $5. 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente, www.surfingheritage.org.

EL PRESIDENTE BALL 6:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. Fiesta Association’s annual formal Western-style dinner and dance with live music and more. Dress in early-California attire.

El Adobe de Capistrano, 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1976, www.swallowsparade.com.

Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

Young buccaneers are invited to the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club’s annual Diamond Dig Sunday at Baby Beach.

Photo by Andrea Papagianis

EDITOR’S PICK: DANA POINT FESTIVAL OF WHALES 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. The 43rd annual festival continues this Saturday and Sunday with a variety of fun and educational and activities including whale watching, arts and crafts, food and more around the Dana Point Harbor. All the details at www.festivalofwhales.com.

sunday

MARCH WILDFLOWER WALK 9 a.m.–11:30 a.m.

Guided hike searching for wildflowers and more at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy. Admission $5 to $10. 949.923.2210, www.rmvreserve.org.

09

FARM TO FORK: ADULT COOKING CLASS 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Explore the garden, harvest fresh produce and learn how to prepare a delicious meal at The Ecology Center under guided instruction from a professional chef. Tickets $40 members, $20 non-members.

32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

CHOIR CONCERT 2:30 p.m. Saddleback College Choirs Perform Mozart, Mendelssohn and more. General admission is $15. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

monday

10

BLOOD DRIVE 10 a.m.– 4:15 p.m. The Red Cross visits the Dana Point Library for donations. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

PAJAMA STORYTIME 7 p.m. PJs and bedtime stories at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

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tuesday

PRESCHOOL AND TODDLER STORY TIMES 10:15 a.m., 11 a.m. Dana Point children’s librarian Ericka Reeb hosts two story times each Tuesday for preschoolers, toddlers and their caretakers. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

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AN OCEAN ODYSSEY AT THE CASA 5:30 p.m.– 8:30 p.m. Dana Point artist John Hall opens “An Ocean Odyssey” at Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

wednesday

SOUTH COUNTY’S GOT TALENT 7 p.m.

The South Orange County Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts a talent show at The Coach House.

Tickets $75-$100. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

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thursday

13

BILLY WATSON AND ROBIN HENKEL 7 p.m.– 10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

DUSTIN FRANK 7:30 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

UPCOMING: FRIDAY, MARCH 14 SHAMROCK SHINDIG 6:15 p.m.–8:15 p.m. Club Literacy teachers will narrate magical St. Patrick’s Day folktales for pre-kindergarten through fourth-grade children. Come enjoy snacks, stories, games, music and dance an Irish jig.

Wear green if you feel lucky. $20 per child. RSVP by March 13. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 105, Dana Point, 949.717.6624, www.clubliteracy.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

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PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

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

Rain or Shine, the Festival Must Go On Despite cancellations Festival of Whales festivities commence

By Andrea Papagianis Dana Point Times

T

he 43rd annual Dana Point Festival of Whales got off to a soggy start, but rain didn’t deter runners, whale watchers, festival goers, participants or volunteers from making the best of the weekend’s festivities.

City officials pulled the plug on the festival’s parade down Pacific Coast Highway

Dina and Victor Flowers of San Clemente stop for a photo before the Grunion Run. Photo by Steve Breazeale

due to inclement weather and public safety concerns Friday morning. Along with the cancellation, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce decided to forego its annual

street fair at La Plaza Park.

Despite the absence of the festival’s yearly opener, crowds still made their way to the Dana Point Harbor for a weekend’s

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9934 members man a pancake breakfast booth. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Stephanie Mings, paints Dana Hills High School junior Alex Russell’s face. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

worth of events and nature tours aboard seafaring vessels.

Rain fell hard Sunday morning, but cleared away as the day progressed with sunshine and warmth making its way in by the afternoon. And as the clouds cleared, kids flocked to the adventure expo for carnival games and inflatable rides with painted and smiling faces, sand enthusiasts worked their creative magic in the Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition and festival goers perused green, environmentally-friendly exhibits at the Ocean Awareness Day expo.

Weekend two festivities kick off Friday, March 7 with a Dana Point Symphony performance aboard the Ocean Institute’s Pilgrim. On Sunday, the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club is making up for a canceled event with a rescheduled kids’ Diamond Dig at Baby Beach.

See the official Festival of Whales event guide for a full list of events still to come at www.danapointtimes.com or visit www.festivalofwhales.com for the latest developments. DP

Dana Point’s Mariner Sea Scouts partake in the Kids’ Adventure Expo. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Emily Forster, 15, carves a surfboard in the OC Parks sculpting contest. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Kai Masby, 3, gets a little putting help from his dad Peter. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

Page 10

Students from Hidden Hills Elementary gear up for the Kid’s 1K run. Photo by Steve Breazeale

www.danapointtimes.com

DP LIVING GUEST OPINION: By Jenna Ross, Dana Hills High School senior

“What If” Week Brings Dana Hills Closer D ana Hills High School recently held its first “What If” Week, a series of events designed to raise awareness for the everyday issues students face and to unify the student body.

With the help of faculty members, the event was organized by Dana Hills students and Associated Student Union members Jan Yonan, Jayden Tatman, Catherine Takata and John Stafford.

The week included various events and activities such as an “If You Really Knew Me” wall, where students anonymously posted their personal struggles, a compliment wall, a cross the line activity and various guest speakers.

The idea arose when Yonan and his fellow teammates attended the Orange County Leadership Conference last summer. After learning about the week and its success at other schools, including El Toro High School, ASU unanimously decided to bring it to Dana Hills.

“The purpose behind the week was, simply put, to begin to change the culture of Dana Hills,” said Yonan. “Students at Dana and across the country experience struggles on a daily basis, some incredibly difficult, that they can’t handle alone.”

Many faculty members also stepped up to lend a hand, such as math teacher

Jake Schwartzberg, who spoke about his wife’s death at the hands of a drunk driver and the importance of staying sober behind the wheel.

“That was what I found the most moving,” said teacher Brittany Casey, Jenna Ross who helped organize the event alongside activities director Ken Nedler. “The fact that Mr. Schwartzberg and other teachers were willing to...make themselves vulnerable in front of the student body was incredibly touching.”

I was able to witness these events firsthand. Originally, I was skeptical that the event would have its desired result. I was wholly supportive, but concerned about how receptive my peers would be.

We’ve all seen the film Mean Girls. It’s a familiar fact that teenagers can be selfabsorbed, cliquey and unequivocally cruel.

I worried that the week wouldn’t be taken seriously and that those who opened up with their struggles would be shut down.

Thankfully, the response to “What If” Week has been quite the opposite.

The events have touched me and the rest of the student body in unimaginable ways. Although every day brought a pow-

erful experience, the most heartrending for me was the “Cross the Line” activity.

During the activity, my peers and I were asked to stand side-by-side on a line. We were then asked a series of questions, ranging from simple to more sensitive and difficult to answer. If the question applied to us, we were asked to walk across the gym and cross the line on the opposite end. The questions began with “Do you have a sibling?” and escalated to more delicate questions such as, “Have you ever purposefully harmed yourself?”

Seeing people I’ve grown up with, people I played tag and jumped rope with, cross the line to admit that they’ve had thoughts of suicide or intentionally harmed themselves was devastating.

When the time came, I crossed the line to admit that I struggled with depression and anxiety. When I got to the other end of the room and looked to either side of me, I saw so many familiar faces. Some friends, some strangers, but many I’d known for most of my life. I was overcome with emotion and relief, and I had never felt more close to my peers standing beside me.

“The outcome we are working toward is a slight change in attitudes among students at Dana,” Yonan said. “We recognize that’s a lot to ask for teens, but our vision

is to continue this event in the coming years so that by the time the current freshman are seniors, there will be a completely different atmosphere on campus: One of hope, one of acceptance and most of all one of understanding.”

As far as I can see now, the vision of Yonan and the rest of ASU is being realized.

Walking through the halls that week and seeing walls filled with sticky notes detailing people’s personal struggles was heartbreaking. But even more awe-inspiring and heartwarming was the overwhelming amount of encouraging messages, compliments and positive responses written in reply.

There’s been a visible change in our school, a sense of camaraderie that wasn’t there before. Four words have been resounding through the school this week, whether it be scribbled in response to someone’s anonymously posted confession or whispered while hugging a friend: “You are not alone.”

I have hope these words will continue to resonate through our halls and hearts.

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

DP LIVING GUEST OPINION: It’s History by Carlos N. Olvera

Memories, Milestones and Misunderstandings Festival of Whales parade cancellation a first, recollections find controversy over annual count

T

ypically, as we enjoy each season of whale watching, the annual Dana Point Festival of Whales kicks off with a parade.

This year however, in the 25th year of Dana Point’s cityhood, the IT’S HISTORY

By Carlos N. 43rd annual festival’s paOlvera rade was canceled due to severe weather. But that didn’t stop the celebrations from starting.

With the festivities come memories of the festival’s grassroots start, along with a bit of historical controversy regarding the festival’s tenure.

Started by the late, pioneering science educator Philip Grignon in 1972 with Don Hansen and his fleet from Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, the festival involved some of the first events aimed at attracting visitors to the new Dana Point Harbor. In a 2012 letter to the Dana Point Times and the Dana Point Historical Society, Grignon also credits colleague Patricia Cassi for having a hand in conceiving the festival idea.

Grignon taught at San Clemente High School before becoming Dana Hills’ first principal and later the Capistrano Unified School District’s science coordinator. He first approached Hansen in the late ’60s to give start to whale watching, with initial excursions being tailored to Grignon’s students. These first outings launched from the San Clemente Pier.

Just before the Dana Point Harbor opened in 1971, Hansen moved his operation to Dana Point where whale watching opportunities were extended to the general public.

In 1973, came a children’s costumed walking “parade” organized by the late Orange County historian and author Doris Walker. The popular event grew each year and in 1977 even included Disneyland’s Donald Duck as the grand marshal.

Dana Point Councilman Carlos Olvera takes part in the Dana Point Festival of Whales parade last March. Due to weather, this year’s parade was canceled. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

So shouldn’t 2014 actually mark the 42nd annual event?

(1972 + 43 years = 2015.)

Traditionally the first event of any organization is not called the “first annual” but rather the inaugural. The following year then becomes the first annual event. In 1991, 20 years after the Harbor opened, it would be reasonable to assume that it should be marked as the 20th annual Festival of Whales. So, the 19th annual name was skipped in order to correct the supposed error.

Although past news articles and written histories show the first official festival took place in 1972, it is clear that whale watching was celebrated in Dana Point at least one year before—43 years ago.

This year’s event marks the first time a parade has ever been canceled due to rain. This issue of rain has been addressed throughout the years as organizers tried to plan festival events on the

right weekend to avoid the rainy season.

Start dates have been as early as January 31 in 1976, but were pushed back in 2003 to March 8.

After Dana Point became a city, a motorized parade began down Santa Clara Avenue and crossed Pacific Coast Highway at Violet Lantern. Eventually Santa Clara was closed to through traffic, so an alternative route was tried “down” Golden Lantern but did not fare well with horses because of the steep descent.

Dana Point later got control of PCH and the parade grew significantly, requiring a larger staging area.

Today, the parade winds down PCH from Selva Road to Golden Lantern. The volunteer organization and an out-of-pocket budget gave way to the city as they became a major sponsor. The festival became a nonprofit organization with major sponsors celebrating ocean awareness.

Since 2001, parade grand marshals

have been selected for their personal or business involvement in the city and the festival—folks like Walker, Hansen, longtime parade announcer and this year’s Citizen of the Year Gene Burrus, and even yours truly.

But one significant trivial event happened 25 years ago that may never be repeated again.

When Dana Point became a city in 1989, Mayor Judy Currie looked around at her January swearing in and turned to me and said, “We need a big parade this year.”

The then three-weekend festival was scheduled for Feb. 25 through March 12, leaving not much time to create a parade down “Main Street.” And Caltrans would not let “the committee” use PCH. Insurance was too costly. So groups of residents, organizations and businesses walked or drove down Santa Clara from Blue Lantern to Violet Lantern. Caltrans also would not let organizers stop traffic on PCH to allow people to cross the street as the parade was heading to La Plaza Park to join the first Street Fair put on the by Dana Point Chamber of Commerce.

So, to cross PCH and Del Prado a volunteer keep pressing the walk button to stop the through traffic.

While this year’s parade was sorely missed, there are still many opportunities to celebrate the California gray whale and Dana Point in its second weekend, March 8 and 9. Visit www.festivalofwhales.com for a full lineup of events and activities.

—Andrea Swayne contributed to this article.

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

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

DP

D a n a Po i nt

OUTDOOR SPOTLIGHT

RUNNIN’ IN THE GRUNION

A little morning rain was not enough to keep runners of all ages from descending upon Doheny State Beach on March 2 to take part in the 6th annual Dana Point Festival of Whales Grunion Run. The race, which started and ended on the beach trail, featured a 10K, 5K and Kid’s 1K run.

The morning started off with the 10K, which was won by Miles Galla-Rini of Orange.

The runners competing in the popular 5K followed.

Owen Kiley of Pasadena and Claire Collinson claimed the first-place medal for the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively.

The Kid’s 1K fun run started off with a bang, as the youngsters sprinted off the starting line and completed a one-lap loop around the Doheny State Beach parking lot.

—Dana Point Times

Children burst from the starting line during the kid’s 1K run at the 6th Annual Festival of Whales Grunion Run. Photo by Steve Breazeale

BAS E BA L L Date 3/7-15 3/21* 3/22 3/26* 3/28* 3/29-4/2 4/8* 4/15* 4/17* 4/22* 4/24* 4/30* 5/2* 5/7* 5/9* 5/14

Opponent Loara Tourn.

Aliso Niguel Valencia (double header) Laguna Hills San Juan Hills Anaheim Lions Tourn.

San Clemente Aliso Niguel Aliso Niguel Laguna Hills Laguna Hills San Juan Hills San Juan Hills San Clemente San Clemente Pacifica (double header)

Location, Time TBA, TBA ANHS, 3:30 p.m.

VHS, 11 a.m./1 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

SJHHS, 3:30 p.m.

TBA, TBA DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

ANHS, 3:30 p.m.

LHHS, 3:30 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

SJHHS, 3:30 p.m.

SCHS, 3:30 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m.

DHHS, 3:30 p.m./ 5:30 p.m.

*--denotes league game

S O F T BA L L

Dana Hills starting pitcher Louis Raymond will lead the Dolphins pitching staff in 2014. Photo by Steve Breazeale

Dolphins Spring Into Action Dana Hills High School spring sports teams gear up for the new season

By Steve Breazeale Dana Point Times

F

ollow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports all season long for in-game updates, news and more on all the Dana Hills High School spring sports teams.

SOFTBALL First-year head coach Brandon Cosenza admits to walking into a good situation with this year’s Dana Hills softball team. The Dolphins return their top two starting pitchers as well as the entire starting infield. The team finished in a tie for second-place in the South Coast League last year and got hot in the postseason, making it to the Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

CIF-SS Division 2 quarterfinals.

With so many returning players, including three Division 1 commits, the Dolphins are in good position to challenge Mission Viejo for the top spot in league.

Seniors Olivia Baltazar and Lindsey Cassidy make up the one-two punch in the pitching rotation. Baltazar made her starting pitching debut on March 5 against Woodbridge and turned in a complete game, nine strikeout effort in an 8-5 win.

Table setters in the lineup include speedsters Sami Williams (second base) and Madison Killebrew (shortstop).

Senior first baseman and University of Virginia commit Danielle Ingraham will provide the power in the cleanup spot.

BASEBALL The Dana Hills baseball team has made defense and pitching their trademark in recent years. The Dolphins ability to play small ball at the plate, get outs in the field and have their starters pitch deep into games put Dana Hills in contests that were decided by one or two runs 16 times last year. The team’s overall record in those games turned out to be 7-9, which head coach Tom Faris chalked up to bad luck.

The 2014 version of the Dolphins is cast in the same mold, with their strength revolving around two top-of-therotation pitchers and a stout defense.

Page 14

Date 3/20 3/25 3/29 4/1 4/3* 4/15* 4/17 4/22* 4/29* 5/1* 5/6* 5/8* 5/14*

Opponent Location, Time Aliso Niguel (double header) DHHS, 3:30 p.m./5:30 p.m.

Edison EHS, 3:30 p.m.

Murrieta Valley (double header) MVHS, 10 a.m./12 p.m.

Beckman BHS, 3:30 p.m.

Mission Viejo DHHS, 4:30 p.m.

San Clemente SCHS, 4:30 p.m.

Capistrano Valley DHHS, 4:30 p.m.

El Toro DHHS, 4:30 p.m.

Tesoro THS, 4:30 p.m.

San Clemente DHHS, 4:30 p.m.

Mission Viejo MVHS, 4:30 p.m.

El Toro ETHS, 4:30 p.m.

Tesoro THS, 4:30 p.m.

*--denotes league game

Senior right-handed pitcher Louis Raymond (2.35 ERA in 2013) will be the team’s No. 1 starter with junior Marrick Crouse behind him. Behind Raymond and Crouse, Faris plans on using a mix of positional players to fill out the rotation.

The Dolphins are no stranger to hit-and-runs and bunts, which will make team speed integral to their success. Top of the order hitters like junior Luke Williams, a versatile two-sport athlete, will set the table for hitters like junior Jay Schuyler, the team’s returning first baseman. Schuyler hit .303 with 15 RBIs in 2013.

“I think speed is going to be a key factor in what we do.

If the kids buy into reading the ball in the dirt, dragging, pushing, hitting, running, stealing and everything that we do here, we’re going to do real well,” Faris said. www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS comment on Hessenauer’s absence from this year’s team.

Sophomore outside hitter Grady Yould and junior Teddy Fitzgerald will be among the team’s top outside hitters.

Fitzgerald (6-foot) and Yould (5-11), who are both twosport athletes, might be a bit undersized, but Simmons believes this could be a hidden advantage for his team.

“We have to be a small, ball-control oriented team if we’re going to be successful,” Simmons said. “We don’t necessarily have the power other teams do but we hit smart at the outside.”

Freshman high jumper Skyla Taylor takes off during a Dana Hills girls track and field practice. Photo by Steve Breazeale

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD The Dana Hills girls track and field team’s recipe for success in recent years has been to stock up on talent in the field events. So far, it’s been paying off for the Dolphins, who in 2013 won the South Coast League title for an eighth consecutive year.

When assessing this year’s squad, head coach Ryan Crane does not see the team’s usual numbers in terms of quantity, but he does see quality.

Sophomore pole vaulter Claire Kao will be a key figure in the Dolphins field events. Kao set a school record last year when she cleared the 12-4 mark.

Senior Michaela King (sprints, hurdles) is already making an impact. On March 5, King posted a time of 14.91 in the 100-meter hurdles in an exhibition meet against Great Oak, which, according to PrepCalTrack.com, is currently the fastest time in the state under any conditions.

Junior Kimiko Tanaka and Chole Deol will add depth to the Dolphins relay and mid-distance teams.

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD Much of the Dolphins runners who were on the successful cross country team in the fall make up a deep and talented distance running team for track and field in the spring.

Standout sophomore Jake Ogden, junior Mason Coppi and seniors Gavin Diem and Wyler Svoboda were members of the cross country team that finished third in the CIF State Championships and will compete in distance events like the 800, 1,600 and 3,200.

Jacob Harbin, who played right guard for the Dolphins football team, threw 48-9 in the shot put at the South Coast League finals last season and according to head coach Craig Dunn, the senior has already bested the 50-foot mark in the offseason.

“We’re pretty well rounded. We think we have a chance, we have a lot of individuals who put in a lot of time in the offseason so we’re excited about this upcoming season,” Dunn said.

BOYS VOLLEYBALL The Dana Hills boys volleyball team will have a different look this year, most noticeably in their size. When they take to the court this season, the Dolphins will lack the size of year’s past, which has made ball control and passing a priority this offseason.

With an emphasis on sharing the ball, the Dolphins can take solace in having senior Eric Matheis, a UCLA commit, at setter. Matheis, who was a standout player for the Dolphins basketball team, is a three-year varsity starter.

“It’s nice having (Matheis) in that position. With him at setter, he makes the other players around him that much better,” head coach Oz Simmons said.

The Dolphins, however, will be without standout senior opposite, and another UCLA commit, Christian Hessenauer, who played an integral role in the Dolphins’ South Coast League championship efforts last year. Simmons declined to Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

BOYS TENNIS It’s no secret that the Dana Hills boys tennis team will be strong at the top of their singles, as long as standout senior Chase Masciorini is there. Masciorini had a stellar 2013 that saw him advance to the quarterfinals of the CIFSS Individual Championships. In the past three seasons, Masciorini has won the South Coast League title once and finished runner-up twice.

Masciorini has been effective on the court, but head coach Justin Green thinks his efforts off the court are what make him special.

“He’s one of the best leaders I’ve had in our boys program since I’ve been here. He just cares so much about the team,” Green said. “He is our best player, but he works with these other guys and what’s best for them.”

The Dolphins doubles teams are still taking shape in the preseason. The group that was young and new to the varsity game last season returns seniors Jon Alami and Arjun Boddu. –Brian Park contributed to this report

B OYS A N D G I R LS T R AC K A N D F I E L D Date 3/12 3/14 3/15 3/22 3/27* 3/29 4/3 4/5 4/17* 4/24* 4/26 4/30* 5/6-9

Opponent Great Oak South County Classic Irvine Invit.

Trophy Invit.

Trabuco Hills Beach Cities Invit.

San Juan Hills Trabuco Hills Invit.

San Clemente Tesoro OC Championships Mission Viejo League Finals

Location, Time DHHS, 2 p.m.

SCHS, 3:30 p.m.

IHS, 7:30 a.m.

Laguna Beach, 8 a.m.

DHHS, 2:30 p.m.

Huntington Beach, 8 a.m.

DHHS, 2:30 p.m.

THHS, 8 a.m.

SCHS, 2:30 p.m.

DHHS, 2:30 p.m.

TBA, TBA DHHS, 2:30 p.m.

SCHS, 3 p.m.

*--denotes league meet

B OYS VO L L EY BA L L Date 3/11 3/13 3/14-15 3/21-22 3/27* 4/1 4/3* 4/15* 4/17* 4/22* 4/25 4/29* 5/1* 5/6*

Opponent Jserra Santa Margarita Best of the West Tourn.

OC Championships Trabuco Hills Aliso Niguel Capistrano Valley San Clemente Tesoro Trabuco Hills Laguna Beach Capistrano Valley San Clemente Tesoro

Location, Time DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

SMCHS, 5 p.m.

TBA, TBA TBA, TBA DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

CVHS, 6 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

THS, 6 p.m.

THHS, 6 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

SCHS, 6 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

B OYS T E N N I S Date 3/11* 3/12 3/20* 3/25* 4/1* 4/3* 4/15* 4/16 4/17* 4/22* 4/24-25 4/29* 5/6-7 5/13-23 6/5-7

Opponent Mission Viejo Edison Capistrano Valley El Toro San Clemente Tesoro Capistrano Valley Corona del Mar San Clemente Tesoro Ojai Tourn.

El Toro League Finals CIF Team Championships CIF Individuals

Location, Time DHHS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

THS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

CDMHS, 3 p.m.

SCHS, 3 p.m.

THS, 3 p.m.

Ojai, TBA ETHS, 3 p.m.

TBA, TBA TBA, TBA TBA, TBA

*--denotes league match

B OYS G O L F

Dana Hills tennis player Chase Aplin gets in some work at a practice.

Photo by Brian Park

BOYS GOLF A slew of sophomores and juniors will lead the Dana Hills boys golf team in 2014, which will be the final group that longtime head coach Phil Wilburton oversees. Wilburton said this season will mark the end to his 28-year coaching career.

The group that will send him out is a young and talented one that features four returning starters.

Sophomore Clay Feagler is the team’s top player and currently holds a 37-stroke scoring average. Wilburton said Feagler, who led the team as a freshman, shows poise at such a young age and has the ability to correct mistakes mid-round.

Rounding out the top five in the group will be Alex Diaz (39), Matt Fry (39), Tanner Podres (40) and Matt O’Leary (40).

The bottom of a lineup is always in flux and crucial to a team’s success, and Wilburton is still shuffling and adjusting it to see what works.

(Cont. on page 16) Page 15

Date 3/10 3/11 3/12 3/13 3/18 3/19 3/20 3/25* 3/26 3/27* 3/31 4/1* 4/2* 4/15* 4/17* 4/29* 4/30* 5/6 5/12 5/19 5/27

Opponent Location, Time Wolverine Tourn.

Aliso Viejo CC, noon Fallbrook Monarch Beach GL, 3:30 p.m.

Laguna Beach Aliso Viejo CC, 3 p.m.

Laguna Beach El Niguel CC, 3:30 p.m.

Corona del Mar Newport Beach CC, 3:30 p.m.

El Toro/Corona de Mar El Niguel CC, 2:30 p.m.

El Toro Mission Viejo CC, 2:30 p.m.

Tesoro Coto de Caza CC, 2:30 p.m.

San Clemente Talega GC, 3 p.m.

Tesoro El Niguel CC, 2:30 p.m.

Fallbrook Pala Mesa GC, 3 p.m.

Capistrano Valley El Niguel CC, 2:30 p.m.

Capistrano Valley San Juan Hills GC, 3:15 p.m.

Aliso Viejo Aliso Viejo CC, 2:30 p.m.

Aliso Viejo El Niguel CC, 2:30 p.m.

Trabuco Hills El Niguel CC, 2:30 p.m.

Trabuco Hills Dove Canyon CC, 3 p.m.

League Finals Talega GC, 12:30 p.m.

CIF Southern Indiv. Regional TBA, TBA CIF South Coast Team Champ. Talega GC, 7:30 a.m.

CIF Indiv. Champ./SCGA Qualif. Mission Lakes CC, 8 a.m.

*--denotes league match

www.danapointtimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS G I R LS LAC R O S S E Date 3/11 3/13 3/20 3/25* 3/28* 4/1* 4/3* 4/17* 4/22* 4/25* 4/29*

Opponent Tesoro San Clemente Mission Viejo Capistrano Valley Laguna Hills San Juan Hills Aliso Niguel Capistrano Valley Laguna Hills San Juan Hills Aliso Niguel

Location, Time DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

SCHS, 5:30 p.m.

MVHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5 p.m.

DHHS, 5 p.m.

SJHHS, 5 p.m.

ANHS, 5 p.m.

CVHS, 5 p.m.

LHHS, 5 p.m.

DHHS, 5 p.m.

DHHS, 5 p.m.

*--denotes league game

B OYS LAC R O S S E

(Back row first, L to R): Junior Jessica Fernandez, sophomore Deanna Shontere, freshman Kaelyn Casazza and front: freshman Amanda Shontere and senior Lauren Pierce make up a talented Dana Hills girls dive team. Photo by Brian Park

Date 3/7 3/18 3/20 3/22 3/25* 3/27* 4/1* 4/3* 4/4 4/17* 4/22* 4/24 4/25* 4/29* 5/3

Opponent Northwood Mater Dei Mission Viejo Great Oak Capistrano Valley Laguna Hills San Juan Hills Aliso Niguel Amador Valley Capistrano Valley Laguna Hills Servite San Juan Hills Aliso Niguel St. Margaret’s

Location, Time DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

GOHS, 2 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

LHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

DHHS, 5:30 p.m.

SHS, 5 p.m.

SJHHS, 5:30 p.m.

ANHS, 5:30 p.m.

SMES, noon

*--denotes league game

Dana Hills girls lacrosse goalie Syd Allison is one of several freshmen who have made it on to the varsity team in 2014.

Photo by Steve Breazeale

Dana Hills senior Mitch Heinbach will focus on competing in the sprint swimming events in 2014, with his eyes set on breaking the school record in the 50-meter freestyle. Photo by Brian Park

(Cont. from page 15) The Dolphins opened their season with back to back nonleague losses to San Clemente and Newport Harbor on March 3 and 4, respectively.

Iltis said the Dolphins were an up-tempo, run-and-gun style team in 2013. Iltis changed that by implementing a more settled system that focuses on ball possession.

“I encourage taking chances but a lot of this game is possession. We’ll be a strong defensive team and strong in the faceoff,” Iltis said.

The Dolphins roster will return several players but took a hit after 13 seniors left to graduation, seven of which were starters.

Returning senior midfielder and co-captain Justin Vasu will anchor the team, according to Iltis. The coach believes Vasu has the best overall athleticism on the team and possesses the vision that an impact midfielder needs.

Faceoff specialist Tad Thayer and sophomore defender and co-captain Cade Norland return.

GIRLS LACROSSE Last year marked the first time in school history that a Dana Hills girls lacrosse team reached the CIF-SS playoffs. The Dolphins finished third in the Sea View League and advanced to the first round in the postseason tournament.

With momentum on their side, first-year head coach Dori Campbell will attempt to keep the Dolphins on an upward swing.

Campbell said the team benefitted from a large incoming freshman class with prior lacrosse experience, which had not happened before.

One of the freshman standouts is goalie Syd Allison, who Campbell says has quick reflexes and stands strong in goal.

Sophomore defender Samantha Warday, junior co-captain and midfielder Arianna Gonzalez and junior midfielder Malika Kolar return. Lindsay Spicer, the team’s 47-goal scorer from 2013, returns to lead the offense.

“I think there are a lot of confident players. We had a really successful season for fall ball,” Campbell said. “The connections that they’re making and their trust level is up.

They’re not hitting the ground real rusty since playing last spring.”

BOYS LACROSSE The coaching position for the Dana Hills boys lacrosse team became vacant late in the team’s offseason. It was in February, by the time new head coach Chris Iltis landed the job and took the field with the players for the first time. With just under one month to prepare, the Dolphins and Iltis worked quickly on meshing together and learning a new system.

Dana Point Times March 7–13, 2014

GIRLS SWIMMING AND DIVING After losing only four seniors to graduation, Dana Hills girls swim team head coach Cynthia Carlson believes her team is ready to build on a successful 2013 season.

The Dolphins finished second at the South Coast League finals last year, which is the highest finish the team has earned in the five years Carlson has been coaching.

Several Dolphins swimmers broke school records last year and are going after more in 2014.

Junior Cassidy Humphrey set new records in the 200 and 500 freestyle and will attempt to break the 200 individual medley and 100 butterfly this year.

Bridget Greuel, Kathryn Querner and Britton Forker return to make up a solid core of versatile swimmers.

The Dolphins dive team was a bright spot last year and return captain Lauren Pierce, a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo commit, and San Diego State University commit Nicole Dutton. At the CIF meet last year, the dive team placed all four of their representatives in the top-10, putting Dana Hills in first-place after the diving portion. –Brian Park contributed to this report Page 16

B OYS A N D G I R LS SW I M M I N G / D I V I N G Date 3/11 3/14-15 3/18 3/20-22 3/25* 3/27-29 4/1* 4/15* 4/23 4/29* 5/7 5/9

Opponent El Toro Capo Relays Martin Luther King Millikan Relays (Girls) San Juan Hills Millikan Relays (Boys) Mission Viejo San Clemente Aliso Niguel Laguna Hills League Prelims League Finals

Location, Time DHHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, 3 p.m.

MLKHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, TBA SJHHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, 3 p.m.

MVHS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

ANHS, 3 p.m.

DHHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, 3 p.m.

CVHS, 5 p.m.

*--denotes league meet

BOYS SWIMMING Last season the Dana Hills boys swim team rode their depth to a convincing South Coast League title. Several players would go on to have successful CIF swim showings. With so many seniors set to graduate, it looked like that signature depth would not be there in 2014. But with a handful of freshman already making an impact, the Dolphins appeared to have solved the issue.

Freshman swimmers Trent Pellini and Michael Smith swam times at a nonleague meet on March 4 that head coach Matt Rosa said are already good enough to qualify for CIF. Pellini and Smith will add much needed depth to the Dolphins roster, which includes versatile senior Mitch Heimbach (individual medley, backstroke and freestyle), Shane Forker and Keyon Boniadi (distance).

Heimbach mainly competed in the backstroke and individual medley last year, but due to departing seniors, he is converting to sprint freestyle alongside teammates Spencer Likins and Eric Thorpe.

“We’ve got good depth. But I think the freshmen coming in are really helping us … They’re going to help build the program,” Heimbach said. –Brian Park contributed to this report DP www.danapointtimes.com

DP BUSINESS DIRECTORY

DSaan n Cl a em Poenintet

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.danapointtimes.com FOR SALE MATTRESSES - NEW KINGS & QUEENS! Liquidating name brand Pillowtops, starting at $159. Still in MFRs original factory plastic.

50% to 80% off retail! Sale Ends 3/11/14.

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GARAGE SALES HUGE RUMMAGE SALE!! Something for Everyone!! 3/15. NCL Monarch Chapter@ Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. 33501 Stonehill, Dana Point 8:30AM – 2PM. Proceeds benefit our local charities GARAGE SALE SATURDAY, MARCH 8TH Wonderful Sale! Paintings, posters, prints, vintage antiques, minerals, gems, household items and furniture.3000 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente 9:00am – 3:00 pm (NO EARLY BIRDS) SAT, 3/8. NOTHING OVER $5 GARAGE SALE! 8am, 34455 Via Verde, Capo Bch

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

SURF STUFF MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $65. Call or text 949.533.9761.

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DERMATOLOGY

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

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ART INSTALLATION

PRO ART INSTALLATIONS Erik Van Leight, 212 Avenida Victoria, Erikvl81@gmail.com

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

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LOCKSMITH

Dana Point Lock & Security www.danapointlock.com

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MUSIC INSTRUCTION

PSYCHIATRY Dr. Robert Dobrin, M.D. 949-707-4757 Child/Adolescent/Adult Psychiatry/Behavioral Pediatrics 33971 Selva Rd. Ste, 125

Kenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.3984 REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL delta G electrical 949.360.9282 24731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com Dream Team Properties 949.481.1788 CA #657214, www.deltagelectrical.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Mike Rosenberg, Broker 24699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Capistrano Beach, www.FindMyOCHome.com IMAGES/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 117 Del Gado Road, www.imgs.com

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PET GROOMING Dawgy Style 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Unit 112, www.alphadoggroomshop.com

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LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” Call Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

DP SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

DP

D a n a Po i nt

GROM OF THE WEEK ELIJAH SCHOENIG

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

Age: 12, Bernice Ayer Middle School/ Capo Virtual Online School Elijah Shoenig was born a waterman. As a toddler he developed a love for the ocean and was always excited to be among the waves. He first took up wave riding via bodysurfing and bodyboarding. Then, just over a year ago, his dad taught him to surf. “All of my friends surf and I just decided it was time to give it a try,” Elijah said. “It took me awhile to get into it but now I love it, both longboarding and shortboarding.” Elijah is a dual-enrolled sixth-grader attending school part-time on campus at Bernice Ayer Middle School and part-time online. This is his first year on the BAMS Surf Club, which fulfills part of his physical education credit, much to his delight. Elijah is Elijah Schoenig. Photo by Andrea Swayne a multi-talented athlete, musician and a straight-A student. He plays lacrosse on a travel team, stand-up paddles and was a Junior Lifeguard for three years. He also enjoys fishing and outrigger racing. “My Dana Outrigger Club team went undefeated last year then we won the championship,” he said. “That was really fun.” Doing most of his studies via independent study allows him to pursue other interests, such as studying robotics, he said. He is a member of Vex Robotics, a team that designs and builds robots for competition. Elijah is also a guitarist who has played gigs with his instructor’s band at Sunsets at the Pier and the Cabrillo Playhouse. “I love blues, surf and rock,” he said. “Some of my main influences are Johnny Cash, Freddie King and, of course, Dick Dale.”—Andrea Swayne

Mongoose Cup Showcases the World of SUP The fifth annual event at the Festival of Whales also supports the Wounded Warrior Project

By Brian Park Dana Point Times

W

hen it first began, back in 2010, the Mongoose Cup at the Dana Point Festival of Whales primarily drew adventurous water-sports enthusiasts looking to catch the stand-up paddleboarding wave, recalls legendary surfer Mickey “Mongoose” Muñoz, the event’s inspiration and namesake.

Since then, as the sport has grown exponentially in popularity, Muñoz said there’s been a greater need and a more focused effort to introduce stand-up paddleboarding to newcomers.

“Now, because it’s probably the fastest growing water sport in the world, it’s definitely attracted more of the mainstream,” said Muñoz, a Capistrano Beach resident.

The Mongoose Cup has always served as a stand-up paddleboarding expo of sorts, a collection of activities to show off the latest and greatest in the sport through clinics, races and live demonstrations by companies and enthusiasts.

New to this year’s showcase on Saturday, March 8 is the Mongoose Cup’s partnership with the Wounded Warrior Project, a

Stand-up paddling enthusiasts and newcomers take to the waters off Baby Beach at a past Mickey Muñoz Mongoose Cup event. Inset: Mickey Muñoz demonstrates his SUP style with his dog Gidget at a past Mongoose Cup event.

Photo by Alan Gibby

nonprofit organization that supports veterans who have suffered severe injuries while serving in the military. The day kicks off with the Wounded Warrior Project Paddle, a recreational paddle that will take participants around the island at Dana Point Harbor.

Proceeds from the Mongoose Cup will

benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, as well as the Sport of Kings Foundation, a nonprofit organization Muñoz helped start in support of those in the Southern California surfboard-building industry.

This year’s stable of activities also includes an adaptive paddling clinic for

disabled athletes. The clinic will include demonstrations by experts like Pam Patterson, who teaches adaptive kinesiology at Saddleback College. Contest director Barrett Tester highlighted one company that will be bringing a double-haul canoe that allows wheelchair-bound individuals to experience the thrill of paddling.

Tester also said the Mongoose Cup will feature a demonstration of XSUP, a new game that combines stand-up paddleboarding with elements of hockey, lacrosse and soccer.

In addition, there will be board and proper stroke demonstrations for beginners, as well as a yoga SUP clinic, where participants can practice yoga while out on their boards.

The Mongoose Cup will take place at Baby Beach, starting at 9 a.m. Entry costs $25 and includes the Wounded Warrior Project Paddle, paddling skills clinics, a “Luck of the Draw” relay and a barbecue lunch. For an additional $25, guests can enter into the Sport of Kings Foundation races and receive a Mongoose Cup T-shirt. Sign up at Baby Beach the day of the event or register online at www.mongoose2014.eventbrite.com. DP