February 23, 2018

INSIDE: The Dana Point Festival of Whales Guide SPECIAL SECTION

OUR COMMUNITY, OUR VOICE FOUNDED IN 2002

SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO AND RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

FEBRUARY 23–MARCH 8, 2018 • VOLUME 16, ISSUE 4

Learning to Fly

San Juan Capistrano native reclaims the American long jump record, sets sights on 2020 Paralympic gold S P O R T S / PAG E 1 8

San Juan Capistrano native Trenten Merrill trains at the Elite Athlete Training Center in Chula Vista. Merrill was a Paralympian in 2016 and looks to take gold in the long jump in 2020. Photo: Courtesy Trenten Merrill Athletics

Democratic Congressional Candidates Weigh in on Hyperlocal, Nationwide Issues During Debate EYE ON SJC/PAGE 5

CUSD Could Face Employment Cuts as a Result of Declining Enrollment EYE ON SJC/PAGE 7

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

Kids’ Pet Parade Sniffs Out Adorable Pets, Owners SJC LIVING/PAGE 12

GO TO THECAPISTRANODISPATCH.COM FOR THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS AND SPORTS

EYE ON SJC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Juan should know this week City Council Discusses Recalls THE LATEST: At its meeting on Feb. 20, San Juan Capistrano City Council talked about the state of its Council members, in consideration of the three recalls and a council member who is running for Congress.

With recall petitions in the works for council members Kerry Ferguson, Pam Patterson and Derek Reeve, and Mayor Pro Tem Brian Maryott’s campaign for the 49th congressional district, referencing these current events—along with noting that some of the canvassers are potentially being paid to gather signatures in favor of recalling some of the Council members— Mayor Sergio Farias brought the discussion to table to remind the Council of its “obligations” to the residents of San Juan Capistrano.

“We are all here to do a job,” Farias said to the Council. “We have two Council members who have potentially paid canvassers in front of super markets and we have canvassers going door-to-door. I think it’s kind of exciting that one of our colleagues is running for congress, but I know with the three recalls it can be very stressful—so I just want you to know that I support all of you and to not get distracted by everything going on out there.”

City Council did not discuss any of the ongoing issues pertaining to the recalls, such as the River Street Market Place project off of Los Rios Street. Instead, Council members did briefly discuss the recalls themselves.

WHAT’S NEXT: Maryott mentioned that some of the Council members who are being petitioned to be recalled may be on the ballot to run again for this year’s City Council elections.

“Hopefully, no matter how much folks are being paid to canvass, they come up short on signatures and (we) can continue to focus on the opportunities before us as a city for the rest of the calendar year,” Maryott said. —Emily Rasmussen

City Council Talks El Nido Mobile Estates Litigation THE LATEST: At the San Juan Capistrano The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

Kerry Ferguson (left), Derek Reeve (middle) and Pam Patterson (right) are the three San Juan Capistrano City Council members being petitioned for recall. Photo: File

City Council meeting on Feb. 20, City Council unanimously passed an amendment to a resolution related to the 2016 rent control decision regarding the El Nido Mobile Estates.

Following the denial of a $403 proposed rent increase in October, 2016, and City Council approving a $9.50 per month increase instead—attorneys representing Richard Worley, the owner of the El Nido Mobile Estates, filed a lawsuit in November, 2016 claiming the city incorrectly interpreted and applied its rent control ordinance and refused to grant El Nido “an appropriate rent increase.”

City Attorney Jeffrey Ballinger said that the court determined that only two of the objections had any merit: whether certain routine legal expenses incurred by the park owner could be included in the proposed 2016 rent increase; and issues pertaining to how “extraordinary” legal and accounting expenses of the park owner would be automatically removed from the rent increase after five years.

WHAT’S NEXT: The resolution to pass the amendment allows a rent increase to not exceed 0.9 percent to each unit’s rent (ranging from $5.09 to $10.14 per month) or a $13.81 per month increase. If El Nido Mobile Estates chooses to implement the $13.81 increase, that amount shall be reduced on Sept. 1, 2021, to an amount no less than $6.98 per month. —ER

OCSD, JSerra Cautions Community of Suspicious Van in Area THE LATEST: A man in a white Dodge van reportedly followed a female JSerra Catholic High School student driving in her vehicle after school around 3:45 p.m. on Feb. 12, which prompted the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) to issue a warning to the man. JSerra officials distributed an email warning of the incident to the school’s community last week.

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After leaving campus, the female student drove to a local store and noticed the white van following her. When she left the store, she noticed the same van following her again—so the student returned to JSerra’s campus, wrote down the van’s information and called the sheriff’s department, the email from JSerra Principal Eric Stroupe read.

“When OCSD arrived, the vehicle had left, but it returned to school again, whereupon the male driver was confronted by OCSD,” Stroupe’s email said.

OCSD Administrative Sgt. Aaron Brady said that when deputies talked to the man, “he didn’t have a good explanation of what he was up to,” so deputies warned the man to leave school property.

Deputies collected the man’s identity, information and photographed him, Brady said.

“While we have no evidence that this person is necessarily a threat to any of our students, his behavior is clearly disturbing,” Stroupe said in the email. “It is also (Cont. on page 4) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC (Cont. from page 3) worth discussing with your children, if they drive, what they should do if they are seemingly being followed. Our student’s actions, returning to a familiar, public area where she knew others would be, is clearly one smart strategy to follow.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Brady said that if someone sees the van or the driver, call OCSD at 949.770.6011 or San Juan Capistrano Police Services at 949.443.6369. Always dial 911 in an emergency. —ER

Minor in Custody for Pellet Gun Incident on Ortega Highway Could Be Tied to Others THE LATEST: A minor suspect was arrested on Feb. 12 for involvement in a pellet-gun incident that involved a victim who claimed he was hit by a pellet from a pellet gun while riding his motorcycle on Ortega Highway on Feb. 9, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD).

The motorcycle rider said that he was hit on the evening of Feb. 9 on Ortega Highway near Shadetree Lane. OCSD and San Juan Capistrano Police Services opened an investigation into the incident and identified the suspect as a minor living in San Juan Capistrano, OCSD Public Information Officer Carrie Braun said in an email.

“During the course of the investigation, OCSD investigators found evidence that this may not have been an isolated incident and that the minor may have done this several times,” Braun said in the email.

The suspect was booked into juvenile hall on several felony accounts, the email statement.

“Investigators have identified a second minor suspect, a friend of the original suspect, who has also been arrested on (Feb. 14) and booked into juvenile hall on several felony accounts,” Braun said.

“Investigators are reviewing reports from parties dating back to Jan. 20 to see if any additional reports can be linked.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Some of the initial incidents may have been reported as “rock throwing,” Braun said in the email. The investigation is ongoing, she said. —ER

CUSD Reaffirms School Safety Plan THE LATEST: In light of the school shooting in Parkland, Florida on Feb. 14 that left 17 people dead, Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Superintendent Kirsten Vital reached out to the community in a letter to ensure parents that there is a safety plan in place.

“Today, our hearts are heavy for the families, friends and entire Parkland, FlorThe Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

ida community as we mourn the devastating loss of life that occurred yesterday at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School,” Vital said in the letter sent out on Feb. 15.

Vital noted that throughout the morning following the shooting, numerous families have reached out to CUSD regarding what plans and procedures are in place to keep students, families and staff safe in emergencies. The district has a safety plan in place specific to each site, that is reviewed annually since 2012, she said in the letter.

The district also works with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) in planning and with security assessments of the schools; the Sheriff’s Department’s School Mobile Assessment and Resource Team that is used in school situations or incidents related to violence; and the Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center, which is an information and intelligence-sharing network that collects, analyzes and disseminates information on criminal risks and safety threats, Vital added in the letter.

“In the area of training, we conduct ongoing drills and simulated emergency services for our staff, and this training is reviewed and modified as needed,” Vital said in the letter. “We also train our staff to speak up and report suspicious activity they see at our school sites or offices.”

Ryan Burris, CUSD chief communications officer, offered additional information on school safety training in an automated email response on Feb. 15. The OCSD-partnered training is called ‘Deny Access, Evade and Engage,’ the email read.

“It is a three-step approach to responding to a threat on campus. In the event of a lockdown, school staff first works to deny access to the threat, if necessary after assessing the situation, they will instruct students to move away from (or evade) the threat. Finally, if necessary, school staff and students will use whatever means necessary to stop the threat (engage),” Burris said in the email.

WHAT’S NEXT: Vital asked that any parents, students, teachers, administrators and staff report any unusual and suspicious activity on campuses and for families to talk to their children to do the same.

“We want everyone on our campuses to be empowered to speak up about anything that looks out of place,” Vital said in the letter.

OCSD said on Twitter, Feb. 15, that there is no known threat to the community at this time but will remain vigilant and that they are dedicated to keeping schools safe.

“In light of (the Parkland shooting), OCSD will be conducting additional patrol checks at all of our schools and reaching out to school administrators to review safety plans,” the tweet said. —ER Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about? Send your suggestions to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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EYE ON SJC

Congressional Candidates Weigh in on Issues During Debate The five Democratic candidates discussed local and nationwide issues and their hopes of flipping the 49th congressional district from Republican to Democrat

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN AND ERIC HEINZ, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he five Democratic candidates running for the 49th congressional district gathered on Feb. 20 at San Juan Hills High School in San Juan Capistrano, for a debate that included topics ranging from The Tolls Roads to the investigations on President Donald Trump.

But a key topic candidates will have to contend with as they get closer to the California Democratic Convention on Saturday and into the primary race is how to move—not necessarily what to do— with the spent nuclear fuel at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).

With the retirement of Rep. Darrell Issa this year, the Democratic candidates are hoping to flip the 49th district that runs from San Juan Capistrano to Solana Beach from Republican to Democrat. The Democratic candidates are Doug Applegate, a San Clemente based civil rights attorney and retired Marine colonel; Sara Jacobs, who is based in San Diego County and has worked with the U.S. State Department; Paul Kerr, a Navy veteran and small business owner in San Diego County; Mike Levin, a San Juan Capistrano based attorney who focuses on environmental issues and government affairs; and Christina Prejean, an Air Force veteran and attorney who represents veterans and sexual assault victims.

The moderator of the debate was Christine Mai-Duc, a political reporter for the Los Angeles Times.

SONGS operators started storing the remainder of its spent nuclear fuel rods onsite, which is right next to the Pacific Ocean, a move that has drawn ire from every corner of Orange and San Diego counties. But the waste can’t be moved until the Department of Energy finds a location for it or legislation is changed to allow for temporary storage.

When candidates were asked if they support the Trump administration’s plan to divert $120 million to find a nuclear waste storage facility and to reexamine The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

The five Democratic candidates running for the 49th congressional district met for a debate on Tuesday, Feb. 20 at San Juan Hills. Photo: Eric Heinz

Yucca Mountain until permanent storage is found, all of the candidates said they would support removing the fuel from SONGS campus, but they had varying answers as to what to do with the radioactive material.

Jacobs of Del Mar opened the answers by elevating SONGS to the most immediate issue needing to be addressed in the 49th.

“If something happens at San Onofre, it’s not only going to affect our favorite beaches and surfing spots; it’s going to affect the economy of the entire state of California and this country,” Jacobs said. “I do not think President Trump’s proposal to reopen Yucca Mountain is going to work. It is universally hated by Nevadans, and as the state becomes more and more purple (politically), there will never be political will to reopen it.”

Prejean, who grew up between Vista and Oceanside, took a different approach than her counterparts, saying she would like a balance between which communities eventually accept the spent fuel.

“Our country definitely needs to find a long-term solution to figure out where we’re going to put these rods,” Prejean said. “I think that it’s also important to have someone in Congress who ensures that these rods are not buried in just the poorest neighborhoods.”

Another topic discussed in the district was opioid addiction. Last year, The Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHA) released a report that saw county increases in drug- and alcohol-related deaths from 2013 to 2015, with San Juan Capistrano as one of the cities with the highest rates in the county for deaths and hospitalization for drug and alcohol abuse.

Applegate said that big pharmaceutical companies should be held accountable for overprescribing patients with opioids and that there needs to be more funds allocated

to finding cures to illnesses and diseases.

“We need research in biotech to come up with a cure, big (pharmaceutical companies) hate cures,” Applegate said.

Jacobs said that the opioid crisis is “tearing apart families” and that sober living homes need more regulations. Levin noted that there are a disproportionate amount of residential treatment facilities and sober living homes in the 49th district, and added that there are rights for such establishments and for the communities surrounding them.

In addition to more hyperlocal issues, the candidates also discussed topics that affect the nation as a whole, including gun reform.

All of the five candidates said that they were in favor of some form of gun regulation.

Jacobs said that assault weapons and bump stocks should be banned, and that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should be able to conduct a study on gun violence in the nation. Citing the recent shooting at Marjory High School in Parkland, Florida that left 17 people dead, Jacobs said that the younger generations will make gun regulations happen.

“This insanity has to stop,” Kerr added, after noting he is a gun owner and believes in the Second Amendment.

Although one of the most contentious issues facing San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano is a state, county and local one, candidates were asked about their opinion of continuing toll roads through South Orange County and if it would alleviate traffic.

Jacobs and Levin spoke during the public comment session at a Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) meeting on Feb. 8.

Jacobs named the grocery list of worries San Clemente residents have expressed for about a decade.

“I think that arterial roads will solve much

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of the traffic issue,” Jacobs said. “An eastwest toll road will not solve our north-south traffic. I really want us to alleviate traffic, but this toll road is not the way to do it.”

Levin said San Juan would be affected by toll road options 9 and 18. Options 13 and 17 would also affect his constituents. Still, Levin criticized the methods of administrators of The Toll Roads.

“I think we should ask, if there was no TCA, would any of you want it to be created? Probably not,” Levin said, “But you have bonded indebtedness, and you have under-utilized toll roads, and you have PR firms and lobbyists who are at the public trough, and that is the problem with these privatized infrastructure projects.”

Levin pointed to the trillion-dollar tax cut the president made in his administration’s tax bill that gave substantial breaks to the top earners in the nation, citing Republican infrastructure plans would only benefit the extremely wealthy.

The Democratic candidates must receive 60 percent of the caucus vote for approval at their party’s state convention on Saturday, Feb. 24 in San Diego in order to be considered for endorsement of the California Democrats.

The Republican candidates are Rocky Chavez, a state assemblyman; Kristin Gaspar, a San Diego County supervisor; Diane Harkey, a former state assemblywoman who is currently on the California Board of Equalization; Brian Maryott, San Juan Capistrano’s mayor pro tem; Craig Nordal, a real estate appraiser from Encinitas; and Joshua Schoonover, an engineer and attorney from San Marcos.

Joshua Hancock is running on the Libertarian ticket, and Jordan Mills is running for the Peace and Freedom Party. CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

San Juan Hills High School Students Selected by Disneyland Dreamers and Doers Program San Juan Hills High School students Julia Ransom and Isabella Quaranta were recently named “dreamers and doers” by the Disneyland Resort Dreamers and Doers program. The program honors students who have taken action to improve their communities in some way, by submitting a project that they have completed that shows efforts to creatively strengthen their communities.

Ransom, a junior, was named a “Shining Star” by the program, having created the James Ransom Memorial 5K in honor of her brother, who committed suicide in 2016. The 5K raises money to support programs, organizations, research and families in dealing with issues related to adolescent mental and behavioral health.

Ransom organized their first race in October 2017, raising $35,000 that was donated to the Mission Hospital Foundation for their new Clinical Institute for Mental Health and Wellness in Orange County.

Quaranta, who is also a junior, works with MeoowzResQ, an Orange Countybased kitten rescue that saves kittens from euthanization and abandonment. MeoowzResQ places the kittens in foster homes where they receive care and medical attention. In Quaranta’s six years of working with this organization, she has saved more than 150 kittens, a SJHHS press statement said.

Ransom and Quaranta will be honored at a celebratory luncheon in March and SJHHS will receive a $1,000 grant because of Ransom’s “Shining Star” award.

“San Juan Hills is incredibly proud of the achievements of these two students,” the press statement said. “They really exemplify what it means to Ride for the brand.”

Free Women’s Protection Seminar on March 15 Zen Jojos Capistrano and California Krav Maga is hosting a 3rd Thursday Free Women’s Self Protection Seminar at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 15. The 90-minute safety course is structured for women who are concerned about safety and selfdefense. Each month, the course will teach fundamental skills to enhance “awareness and empowerment of our local community through mental and physical training,” a press statement said.

“In the U.S., one in four women will be a victim of attempted or completed rape in their lifetime, while only one in 87 women will ever participate in some type of selfThe Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 Cultural Heritage Commission Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s Cultural Heritage Commission will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto.

To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 CUSD Board of Trustees Special Meeting 7 p.m. The Capistrano Unified School District governing body meets at district offices, 33122 Valle Road.

To see the board’s agenda, visit www.capousd.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 2 San Juan Hills High School student Julia Ransom (left), who was named a “Shining Star” by the Disneyland Dreamers and Doers program, next to Principal Jennifer Smalley (right). Photo: Courtesy of SJHHS

defense course,” the statement said.

The seminar is for ages 12 and up, but all minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Registration is available online at www.wspmarch15.eventbrite. com. Zen Dojos Capistrano and California Krav Maga is located at 31888 Del Obispo St. Suite C6, San Juan Capistrano.

teaching tennis to children with disabilities.

“Lastly, Deven Douglas has a passion for the STEM field and enjoys competing in Robotics competitions, assisting in youth Engineering Summer Camps and is President of JSerra’s Sailing Club and Cyberpatriot Club,” the spokesperson said.

JSerra Students Advance to Final Round of National Merit Scholarship Program Three JSerra Catholic High School students from the class of 2017 have advanced to finalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program. Having three finalists from the same class of 267 students is unique, in that 0.94 percent of the nation’s 16 million entrants advance to finals, a JSerra spokesperson said in an email.

“Austin Brotman continues to be a tremendous leader as he coaches and encourages his former water polo teammates after a spinal injury paralyzed him,” the spokesperson said.

Brotman has raised more than $30,000 to the Spinal Cord Injury Scholars Fund and since the injury, he has changed his path from wanting to become a surgeon to a doctor specializing in pain management.

“Then there’s Steven Chu, who transferred to JSerra his junior year, achieved 5’s in all of his AP exams and last summer, conducted scientific research with a professor in Shanghai,” the spokesperson said.

Chu also contributes hundreds of hours

Orange County Bar Association Charitable Fund Awards Grants to Local Charities The Orange County Bar Association Charitable Fund awarded $205,500 to 15 law-related organizations and programs in the county, with a couple that have San Juan Capistrano ties.

Laura’s House, a legal advocacy program that provides survivors of domestic violence services to assist with legal rights, was awarded $10,000. Laura’s House is based in Ladera Ranch and has one of its two resale stores in San Juan Capistrano, at 31878 Del Obispo St., Suite 104.

Irvine-based Human Options, which provides survivors of domestic violence education on legal rights, was also awarded $10,000. Human Options provides its support and assistance services through the CHEC Family Resource Center at 27412 Calle Arroyo in San Juan Capistrano.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com.

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Coffee Chat 8 a.m. A spirited town hall forum on community issues. Occurs every Friday at Hennessey’s Tavern, 31761 Camino Capistrano. All are welcome.

Follow Coffee Chat SJC on Facebook for more information.

TUESDAY, MARCH 6 City Council Meeting 5 p.m. The city’s governing body will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7 Downtown Farmers Market 3-6 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from dozens of vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the corner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street.

Occurs every Wednesday. Visit www.farmersmarketsjc.com or call 949.493.4700 to find out more.

THURSDAY, MARCH 8 Design Review Committee Meeting 4:30 p.m. The city’s Design Review Committee will meet at City Hall, 32400 Paseo Adelanto. To see the agenda, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 9 Next issue of The Dispatch publishes.

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

EYE ON SJC

CUSD Could Face Employment Cuts as a Result of Declining Enrollment

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

s Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) sees a trend in decreasing enrollment, the district’s board of trustees is preparing to begin discussions regarding employment reduction.

As enrollment declines—a CUSD graphic projected roughly 1,000 to 2,000 or so in the next four years—CUSD revenue will also decline, which could result in reducing the number of district employees, a special meeting on Feb. 13 revealed.

“It’s actually going to come down to that in the next month. We’re going to have to make decisions on reducing the number of employees,” CUSD Board President Martha McNicholas said at the meeting. “Seriously, we are going to have to look at that. I’m hoping that our retirement incentive helps us out on that, but as trustees, we’re going to have to do some thinking about actual people and positions.”

CUSD has 49,117 students enrolled (excluding charter schools) as of August 2017, according to the school district’s website. The largest employer of South Orange County, CUSD has a total of 3,841 employees (2015-16), the website said.

“For the foreseeable future (we see) a decline in enrollment projections throughout the district,” Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton said at the meeting.

The decline in student enrollment related to lower birth rates typically shows as a lower cohort size in the early grades even as the upper grades remain large, a CUSD staff report said.

School district revenue is based upon average daily attendance and accounts for

More than 200 teachers packed the Capistrano Unified School District’s Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 8, 2017 to draw attention to failed contract negotiations between CUSD and the Capistrano Unified Education Association, which were finalized in January. Photo: File

The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

$8,800 per student, a CUSD graph showed.

With a staffing level ratio of 32 students to one teacher—if there was a 500-student enrollment decrease with a $4.4 million revenue loss, there would be a reduction of 16 teachers with a reduced cost of $1.6 million—and despite a declining, concurrent ratio, there would still be a total net loss of $2.8 million, according to the graph.

“The rule of thumb that school district’s use is that when you’re increasing in enrollment, revenue comes in faster than you need it,” Hampton said. “When you’re declining in enrollment, you lose revenue faster than you can make cuts to accommodate it.”

The discussion of possibly reducing CUSD employees comes one month after the district and the teachers union reached a tentative contract agreement, which “will provide the stability of a three-year contract,” CUSD chief communications officer Ryan Burris said in a press statement.

The agreement also provides teachers a 1 percent ongoing salary increase retroactive to 2016-17, a further 1 percent this year, and a 1 percent contingent increase for the 2018-19 school year, relying on full implementation of the governor’s budget proposal on Jan. 10, the agreement said.

The district will set aside an additional $2.2 million toward health and welfare benefits if the final adopted state budget is not reduced, Burris said.

In hopes that alternatives such as early retirement incentives which the board passed at the same meeting—incentives eligible to 585 employees for tax-qualified annuity based on total district contributions of either 80 percent or 85 percent of their final year salary—will gradually reduce district staff and alleviate the decision of cutting district employees.

“Typically, with enrollment declines, you would have retirements of teachers and that would cover the need to reduce the number of teachers that you need to cover the new students the following years, since you have fewer students,” Hampton said.

“That’s referred to as almost an automatic reduction.”

CUSD Superintendent Kirsten Vital added that another reason the district faces difficulties in revenue is that CUSD has one of the lowest funding per student, due to the state’s Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF).

“The reality is the state’s not going to change the LCFF anytime soon,” Vital said. “We knew this was coming and I think it’s better to plan ahead and phase this in, as opposed to being caught with a significant structural deficit and sort of be back in the days that CUSD and other districts were in 2008-09, where it became kind of a bad-bash panic about how you do this kind of work.” CD Page 7

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The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

Letters to the Editor JUST SAY NO TO THE RECALL —Laura Freese, San Juan Capistrano Our democratic system of government is designed so that the people, the voters who are the ultimate bosses of the elected officials, may easily dismiss officials from office after they have served their term.

If the elected official is heinous—mentally, morally or legally—the official may be removed from office earlier by a recall.

But a recall should only be used as a last resort. Yet, lately in San Juan Capistrano, political opponents are using recalls frivolously as a means to get their political challengers out of office.

Don’t fall for this tactic. Recalls are very expensive—about $100,000 of taxpayer money per recall—and not being used as intended. The recall petitions that are being circulated currently are ridiculous.

Please do not waste taxpayer money. Do not sign a recall petition.

LET’S REMAIN FAIR AND LET THE PROCESS WORK —Michael Forster, San Juan Capistrano The proposed River Street Market Place development has been getting a lot of attention lately. Negative exaggerations and bullying tactics are hampering the ability to have reasonable, fact-based reviews and discussions. Recent hyperbole claiming the development of River Street would have the same negative impact on the city as building a shopping center in the middle of the Mission grounds is completely overthe-top. No doubt distilling differing opinions with respectful discussion can lead the way to a better project. However, misrepresenting the facts and stoking emotions to a fevered pitch does no one any good.

The Ito family has been a part of our town for a long time, responsibly tending to their land on the southwest perimeter of the Historic Los Rios District. They now would like to retire and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Developers have been interested in their property in the past, but the Ito’s didn’t believe those developers had the same appreciation and vision that they have found with Frontier Real Estate Investments.

The importance of having the right developer for a project, especially in the historically sensitive Los Rios District, cannot be overstated. I’ve had unsavory dealings with developers solely bottomline focused that have come in, moved dirt, slapped up buildings, collected the cash and left town. We should give the Ito family credit for thoughtfully choosing Frontier for this project. Frontier is a class act with the highest level of integrity and a track record of successful, award-winning

historically sensitive projects. Frontier cares deeply how the project will integrate within and enhance the special neighborhood that is Los Rios. Frontier Managing Partner Dan Almquist, who lives in and raises his family in our town, has spent many hours reaching out to the Los Rios neighborhood and has made numerous alterations integrating many of the suggestions. It would be tough to find another developer with the integrity and personal appreciation of our town’s rich history as Almquist and Frontier.

The city of San Juan Capistrano has robust processes that will provide comprehensive project review, design, planning and approval oversight. Let’s allow our city’s development approval process proceed and play out accordingly so that we end up with a vetted set of facts to review the proposed development properly and fairly. We should not allow the corruption of the process by the bullying tactics of a few who don’t respect the property owner’s rights or don’t want the project approved at any cost.

We should give the Ito “family credit for thoughtfully

choosing Frontier for this project. Frontier is a class act with the highest level of integrity and a track record of successful, award-winning historically sensitive projects.

”

Done right, River Street Market Place would end up a win-win for everyone. I believe Los Rios property values would increase with this beautiful asset nearby.

Residents and visitors alike would have a great gathering spot for everyone to enjoy.

Many jobs would be created and hundreds of thousands of dollars per year in revenues would be generated to help fund the many infrastructure maintenance and repair needs of our city. Done right, this project will be something we all can be proud of and enjoy while making a strong contribution toward keeping our town vibrant and economically stable for years to come.

AN EXTINCTION PARADOX —Joanna Clark, San Juan Capistrano There have been five major extinctions over the last 4.6 billion years, according to the BBC Nature’s article “Big Five Mass Extinction Events.”

The conditions that caused these extinctions occurred over millions of years, not a few hundred years.

With the arrival of our Industrial-Age in 1750 C.E., we have, in less than 300 years,

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set ourselves on a course that could very well result in a sixth mass extinction.

Prior to the beginning of the Industrial Age, atmospheric CO2 remained relatively stable at 280 parts per million (ppm), according to NASA Global Climate Change.

As our demand for coal, oil and gas intensified, we released more and more CO2 back into the atmosphere, exceeding the ability of the natural carbon sinks to maintain equilibrium. This has resulted in an exponential increase in atmospheric CO2, from 280 ppm to 410 ppm, an increase of 130 ppm above the natural level that existed for hundreds of thousands of years before human civilization arrived, according to NOAA. As our planet’s natural carbon sinks became overwhelmed by rising CO2 levels, the environment began to destabilize, causing a gradual warming of the planet.

This warming has driven climate change, leading to the collapsing of our glaciers, ice shelves, and the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, originally held back by the ice shelves.

The consequences listed above have showed an increase in storm severity, ocean acidification, sea-level rise, flooding, extreme heat waves, drought and wildfires, according to NASA. The risk of wildfires increases exponentially during extended heat waves and droughts. They release CO2 and reduce the number of trees available to absorb CO2, “a double whammy for the atmosphere,” said the Associated Press in Wildfires Deliver a Double Whammy, from 2008.

Today, our continued development as a species depends upon our destruction of the planet’s natural environment. Yet our future depends on the survival of that very same environment. This is the paradox that faces not only climate negotiators, but each of us, individually.

We are facing a catastrophic future if we cannot put our many irrational and tribal differences aside and work as one to solve the paradox that threatens each of us.

Tremendous diversity has evolved among us over the past 250,000 years, but in that diversity, there is great strength and hope. We can become an unstoppable force for change and the common good, if we put our irrational and tribal differences aside and unite as one to solve the paradox we created.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ thecapistranodispatch.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. The Capistrano Dispatch 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.thecapistranodispatch.com

GETTING OUT YOUR EVENT PLANNER

The List

EDITOR’S PICK

What’s going on in and around town COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO

Friday | 23 LIVE MUSIC AT OVERVUE 8-11 p.m. A rotating lineup of musicians performs at OverVue Lounge at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa every Friday and Saturday night. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point. 949.661.5000. www.lagunacliffs.com.

Saturday | 24 SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN 2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Live music at the Swallow’s Inn. Burgers and wings from Lisa’s Kitchen also are available. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 25 GUIDED NATURE HIKE 8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park.

Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

Monday | 26 COUNTRY DANCING AND HAPPY HOUR 7 p.m.-Midnight. Stop by the Swallow’s Inn for country dancing with DJ Patrick and a happy hour that lasts all day. Enjoy a steak dinner for $13. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Tuesday | 27 TODDLER STORYTIME 10:30 a.m. Join the Library for stories, activities and songs for children under 3 years old. “Stay and play” with puzzles and toys after story-time. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point.

949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

Wednesday | 28 OLD CAPISTRANO CERTIFIED FARMERS MARKET 3-6 p.m. Stop by and check out some locally grown, organic produce and artisan goodies at a farmers market that has been The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

Photo: File

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28: STAND-UP COMEDY 101 7-10 p.m. Students of Stand-Up is hosting a six-week workshop for beginners interested in comedy. This workshop will teach basic joke writing techniques, setups, punchlines and how to minimize stage fright. The six-week workshop is $265 and a 20-percent discount is offered for returning students. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.studentsofstandup.com.

going strong for over 15 years. Free admission. Historic Town Center Park. 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.493.4700. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

Thursday | 01 GARDEN ANGELS 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join volunteers, students and teachers at Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to care for and maintain native plants and butterflies. No experience is necessary (they’ll teach you), but you should bring gloves and clippers. No class if it rains. Admission is free. Los Rios Park.

31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

WRITER’S WORKSHOP 7-10 p.m. Students of Stand-Up is hosting a six-week workshop for anyone with prior stand-up experience. The workshop is geared towards punching up preexisting jokes and working together to help each other on their routines. The workshop is $265. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano.

949.489.8082. www.studentsofstandup.com.

Friday | 02 A WAVE OF JAZZ 5 p.m. Enjoy jazz performances accompanied with award-winning food while raising funds for The Ocean Institute’s

Adopt-A-Class program. The fundraiser starts Friday with a pre-concert reception, including local cuisine paired with artisan beer and wine. Saturday’s Gala includes a five-course meal, dancing and world-class jazz performances. Gala tickets are $500.

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

Saturday | 03 FESTIVAL OF WHALES ART SHOW 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Every Saturday and Sunday until March 11, the Dana Point Fine Arts Association is presenting local award-winning artists’ work available for purchase at the Dana Point Harbor Boardwalk. A portion of the proceeds will be given to the Dana Hills High School Art Department. Dana Point Harbor Drive. www.danapointfinearts.org.

THE FESTIVAL OF WHALES PARADE 10 a.m. The Festival of Whales Parade kicks off the two-weekend celebration of the California gray whale migration with a route along Pacific Coast Highway beginning at Selva Road and ending at Golden Lantern. The parade embraces the Festival’s “Magical Migration” theme, with parade floats, costumes and giant helium parade balloons. The parade also includes a variety of bands, classic automobiles, business and military entries. Selva Road, Dana Point. www.festivalofwhales.com.

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FESTIVAL OF WHALES STREET FAIR 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Pet Project Foundation hosts the Street Fair and Whales and Tails Wag-a-Thon at La Plaza Park. Shop at over 70 vendor booths, enjoy music, food trucks, a kiddie area, pet costume contest and more. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. www.festivalofwhales.com.

Sunday | 04 YOGA ON TAP 11 a.m. Yoga on Tap is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente. This is a one-hour yoga class, followed by a pint of beer. The cost is $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente.

949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing. com.

FESTIVAL OF WHALES WHALE OF A PANCAKE BREAKFAST 8-10:30 a.m. Join the Dana Point Woman’s Club for a pancake breakfast adjacent to Baby Beach. While there, purchase a rubber ducky for the club’s Rubber Ducky Derby later in the day. Baby Beach, Dana Point. www.festivalofwhales.com.

FESTIVAL OF WHALES WHALE OF A BBQ 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. A hamburger and hotdog barbecue will be served up by the Knights of Columbus adjacent to Baby Beach.

34445 Ensenada Place, Dana Point. www.festivalofwhales.com.

(Cont. on page 11) www.thecapistranodispatch.com

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

FROM THE MAYOR

Meet the Festival of Whales Logo Contest Winner

Welcome to the 47th Annual Dana Point Festival of Whales

T

he migration of gray whales along Dana Point’s beautiful coastline is one of the most spectacular sites one can experience. Whether standing on the shore, the cliffs or taking in an adventure at sea, the thrill and beauty of seeing these giants of the ocean never disappoints. It’s for this remarkable experience that Dana Point celebrates the Festival of Whales every year.

Over two weekends in March, Dana Point is alive with activities. Kicking off the Festival is the memorable parade down Pacific Coast Highway ending with the Street Fair at La Plaza Park. Festival activities range from Art in the Park, classic car displays, the Diamond Dig for kids and band performances at Baby Beach.

Whale watching excursions take place every day of the Festival.

This year, we have a very special treat. Serving as grand marshal of the Festival of Whales is the commanding officer of the U.S. Marines Corps’ 5th Marine Regiment, Colonel George C. Schreffler III. Dana Point is home to the 5th Marine Regiment Support Group, one of the largest and most successful Marine Regiment Support Groups in Orange County. We are proud of our Marines and are very pleased to honor Col. Schreffler III and his 5th Marines as a part of this year’s celebration.

The Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash is not to be missed. Building and racing a boat made out of cardboard and duct tape requires creativity, ingenuity and a certain bravado. Another one of my favorite events is the Whale of a Pancake breakfast at Baby Beach.

Don’t forget to make time to shop and dine around town. Our local merchants are what make Dana Point special for residents and visitors alike. Be sure to visit www. festivalofwhales.com to learn about all of the family-friendly events offered. Shuttle services and water taxis are available to take you to and from events.

This is the time of year that makes us proud to be a part of this special coastal community. I hope you and your family and friends join the fun at this year’s Festival of Whales.

I look forward to seeing you!

Mayor Richard A. Viczorek

FRANKIE MICHINOCK

I

As we embark on the 47th annual Festival of Whales, it is important to look back at the natural and human history of this iconic celebration. Scientists believe gray whales have long used the Dana Point Headlands as a

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, EVENT COORDINATOR wayfinding landmark on their annual roundtrip migration between their cold Arctic feeding grounds and the warm water birthing and calving lagoons of Baja Mexico. It is this annual 10,000-mile magical migration that served as the original inspiration for the Festival.

Whale watching in the area was the idea of the late San Clemente High School science teacher Philip Grignon who convinced sportfishing company owner Don Hansen to run whale watching excursions for students. Hansen started these trips from the San Clemente Pier in the late 1960s, where his fishing operation was then running. Hansen moved to Dana Point as Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching just before the Harbor opened in 1971 and put the city on the map as a great place to see whales in their natural environment.

Although, that first year, the Festival of Whales, created by Hansen and Grignon, was a yet unnamed and informal celebration of the annual migration of the huge marine mammals, so began the 47-year tradition of celebrating the big grays.

The idea for the Festival’s creation is also credited to two local women. Grignon gave some credit for the idea to his San Clemente High School colleague Patricia Cassi. And the late Orange County/Dana Point historian Doris Walker is credited with organizing the first Festival of Whales Parade in 1973. It began as a costume parade for children, and under her guidance continued to grow each year. It is now an epic kickoff with floats, bands, giant helium balloons and more, parading down Pacific Coast Highway on opening day.

As the Festival nears its golden anniversary, its original spirit continues to flourish, making it one of the most highly anticipated, fun and exciting events of the year. Join us and be amazed, entertained and inspired to appreciate and protect the majestic ocean life right off the coast of beautiful Dana Point. •

The Festival of Whales: A Brief History

Festivalofwhales.com

of people. I wanted it to resonate with everyone who calls this town home.”

When speaking about the technicalities behind her design, Michinock spoke confidently.

“I wanted the whale to be the main focus, held by the waves and supported by Dana Point,” Michinock explained. “I have always loved Disney and have been inspired by their three-tier visuals too.”

She said the whale tail is meant to be “held” by the waves in the sea and its central position is symbolic to the mammal’s cultural and historical relevance in Dana Point.

The orange dot in the background represents both the sun and the “point” in Dana Point, a key geographical location in Orange County.

Color choice was also a large focus for Michinock in her winning design.

“I usually don’t focus too much on colors,” she admitted. “I prefer to work in gray-scale. However, in this design, I relied heavily on my understanding of the Pantone scale that I recently studied in college.”

After graduating from California State UniversityFullerton in spring 2017 with a double major in illustration and graphic design, Michinock is actively pursuing her passions in Orange County. These days, she said she is excited by innovative and creative package design, the intersection of beauty and tangibility.

“I’ve always been focused on function-first art. If it isn’t useful, I’m not interested,” Michinock said. •

t shouldn’t have been a surprise when Frankie Michinock, 23, of Laguna Niguel, admitted that she didn’t have a printed copy of her award-winning 2018 Festival of Whales graphic.

After being identified as one of the top five logo designers from over 70 entries by the Festival of Whales Foundation Board of Directors, Michinock—who is rather humble—was blown away after being named a finalist, and later received just under 1,000 votes in the public voting section hosted on social media. Not long after the polls closed on social media she was crowned, leaving little time to absorb the news in full.

“I still can’t believe this. I’m in shock,” Michinock exclaimed while looking overwhelmed with the attention. “It’s unbelievable. I can’t thank my friends, family and everyone who voted enough.”

Home town pride and pressure This was Michinock’s third time entering the Festival of Whales logo design contest. The Laguna Niguel resident and Dana Hills High School graduate placed fourth her sophomore year of high school in 2010 and second in 2012, but said she has always identified with Dana Point as home and definitely felt motivated—and a bit of pressure—from her home-town pride while designing this year’s award-winning graphic.

Michinock said that it was during her time at Dana Hills, under the motivational tutelage of Visual and Performing Arts Department Chair Natalie Hribar-Kelly, that she began to believe in her skills in the arts.

For her latest entry, Michinock said she was inspired by the graphics on the trolleys that circulate Dana Point for the design.

“I wanted to give my design a timeless feel,” Michinock said. “All of the designs (in the past) were incredible, but I thought it was important to create a graphic that appealed to a wide variety

South Orange County local Frankie Michinock stands with her award-winning logo design at Ken Sampson Overview Gazebo in Dana Point. Photo: Daniel Ritz

OTHER LOGO CONTEST FINALISTS

SECOND PLACE

Mika Denny Santa Ana

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THIRD PLACE

STEPHEN DORSEY Sabin, MN

danapointtimes.com

FOURTH PLACE

TORY ELENA Ventura

FIFTH PLACE

VICTOR SOKOLOW Capistrano Beach

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

Cetacean Creation

Dana Hills students set sail in search of inspiration amongst the waves

BY DANIEL RITZ

A

nxious energy rippled through the air as 58 Dana Hills High School (DHHS) students prepared to board Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching’s boat the Dana Pride.

Each year, students from DHHS fine art classes—including A.P. studio art, video production and drawing and painting classes—set sail out of the Dana Point Harbor in order to gain inspiration for creative projects to be displayed and sold during the annual Festival of Whales celebration.

DHHS fine art teachers Krista Rodriguez and Chau Tran, whose classes were attending this year’s Festival of Whales inspiration trip, voiced that this whale watching experience has more to offer their students through the challenges it presents, than its leisure.

“The tones of the water, the texture of the skin of the animals, it all becomes so much more real. You can emulate as many things as you want, but there is nothing like the real thing,” Tran said.

For some students, the Festival of Whales inspiration trip is a routine day on the water, for others, never before explored territory, but for all, growth is formed from stepping outside of

Might as Whale Take a Selfie!

the stable platform of the classroom, and stepping foot into the wind and the waves.

Sky Hernandez, a junior at DHHS, had never been on a boat before this trip. When asked how that could be, she responded simply, saying that she was afraid of the ocean.

“I’ll go to the beach sometimes, but I have never been on a boat. To be honest, I’m afraid of the ocean,” Hernandez said, adding that her older sister inspired her to attend.

Rodriguez voiced that this is not an uncommon experience for students in her DHHS classes.

“For a lot of us, the ocean and things like boats are second nature,” Rodriguez said.

“But we have to remember that for some, just because it is close doesn’t mean it’s their reality. Boats are expensive and time consuming; it’s amazing to be able to bring these kids into a new world right in their own backyard.”

For some DHHS Students, in retrospect, the most inspiring moments may have been what they have learned about themselves as much as any natural elements.

“It’s beautiful, I had no idea. I’m a little shaky, but I like it,” Hernandez said calmly, sitting on the back deck of the Dana Pride. Succumbing to sea-sickness earlier in the trip, she now sat firmly planted on the deck, eyes peeled for her prized gem—a gray whale.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Melanie Shams, a senior at DHHS, combs the deck of the Dana Pride like a sailor who has earned her sea legs.

That’s because she has.

The 17-year-old video production student is attending the trip to work on her video editing and interviewing skills. Shams, who aspires to be a lawyer, seems to float along the boat as others warily cling to the rails for support.

Her comfort is evident managing her movement on the boat as opposed to surviving the rise and fall of each step, Shams is taking advantage of the opportunity to intertwine her passion and her education.

Occasionally cracking a smile, Shams maintains an obvious sense of control amongst her classmates, keeping her own personal progression to herself.

Once the Dana Pride returned to the Harbor, the students seemed to have settled in. Quietly and contently taking in their surroundings, a majority appear more contemplative; sitting along the railings with their feet hanging over the passing waves below.

“It’s astonishing,” Rodriguez said. “What you learn when you aren’t in complete control of all of the elements.” •

Find a Photo Opp Stop, snap a pic and post it to Instagram with the hashtags #festivalofwhales and #danapointharbor for a chance to win great prizes!

Festivalofwhales.com

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47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

Festival of Whales Merchandise MERCHANDISE BOOTH LOCATIONS March 3 • Street Fair at La Plaza Park • Dana Wharf (In front of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in the center of the large parking island) • El Torito Courtyard

Parking and FREE Shuttle Information The FREE shuttle runs each day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and services most parking lots and event locations. Daily and $3 per hour ($6 minimum) parking is available at Doheny State Beach at the numerous automated payment machine kiosks located throughout the park, or better yet through the Passport Parking app available for smartphones and tablets at www. ppprk.com/park. The benefit of the Passport Parking payment application is, in addition to making the initial payment for parking, time can also be added remotely from your phone or tablet.

March 4 • Ocean Awareness Day at Baby Beach • Dana Wharf (In front of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in the center of the large parking island) • El Torito Courtyard March 10 • Dana Wharf (In front of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in the center of the large parking island) • Along the Harbor walkway • Near the Clam Chowder Cook-Off at Baby Beach March 11 • Near the Concert on the Water/Spirits Garden at Baby Beach • Dana Wharf (In front of Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching in the center of the large parking island) • Along the Harbor walkway

Getting Around the Festival

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! The Dana Point Festival of Whales 2018 merchandise offering will include short sleeve T-shirts in youth and unisex adult sizes. Youth sizes will be available in tropical blue and indigo blue and adult sizes in ice gray, white and navy blue.

Adult long sleeve tees and zip-front hoodies will be available in charcoal gray and navy blue. Five-panel snapback trucker hats will come in charcoal and white/navy. A sport pack backpack and classic tote bag in white will also be offered.

Items may also be purchased online at www.festivalofwhales.com

Walking Directions from OCTA Bus Stop For those guests that are utilizing the OCTA bus stops on PCH, you can reach the Festival by walking down Dana Point Harbor Drive to the Harbor’s Golden Lantern entrance area or you can enter Doheny State Beach (direction sign at bus stop near bridge), walk along the barrier fence, then proceed toward the beach to the marked Festival of Whales shuttle stop. Ride the shuttle FREE to all event locations.

Parade Day Shuttle (March 3 only) FREE shuttle service will be available one hour prior to the Festival of Whales Parade. Park in the Harbor or at Doheny State Beach and ride to the drop-off location for the northerly Parade Announcer Stand. At the conclusion of the Parade, meet at the drop-off location and the shuttle will return you to the Harbor.

Street Fair Shuttle (March 3 only) FREE shuttle service will be available from all Harbor locations to the Street Fair from Noon to 4 p.m.

Water Taxi Daily service during the Festival will be offered between Dana Wharf and the Ocean Institute from noon to 5 p.m. Round trip tickets are $5 per person. Take in all the great sights from the water! Your captain will share interesting facts and features about the Dana Point area and its fascinating history.

Whale of a Concert Shuttle (March 11 only) FREE shuttle service will extend until 6 p.m.

Event Map

Festivalofwhales.com

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47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

FESTIVAL Schedule of Events WEEKEND ONE SATURday, March 3 Whale of a Sand Sculpting Competition 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Festival of Whales Parade 10 a.m. Pacific Coast Highway 1

SATURday, March 10

SUNday, March 11

Whale of a Pancake Breakfast 8 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Baby Beach 15

Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Whale Walk Painting 9 a.m. -2 p.m. Doheny State Beach 16

Boat Builders’ Breaky and BBQ on the Beach a.m.- oon. OC Sailing & vents Center 15

Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6

Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Clinic 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & vent Center 7

Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13 Street Fair 10 a.m.-3 p.m. La Plaza Park 2 Ocean Institute Education Center 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ocean Institute 5 SoCal Woodies Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 The Legendary Corvette Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 Sailing & Stand-Up Paddling Clinic 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & vent Center 7 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6 Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

WEEKEND TWO

SUNday, March 4

Ocean Institute Education Center 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3

SoCal Woodies Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 The Legendary Corvette Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6 Ocean Awareness Day 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5 Diamond Dig 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Whale of a BBQ 11 30 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach Park 15 Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip oon-12 30 p.m. 12 45 p.m.-5 15 p.m.

Dana Wharf Docks 3 Harbor Music Series oon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Whale of a Beach Cleanup - FESTIVAL OF WHALES TOAST TO THE COAST 9 a.m.- oon. Doheny State Beach 16 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Harbor walkway near Mariners Village 6 Wyland Art Lessons in the Wild 10 a.m.-10:45 a.m. OCean Adventures catamaran, Dana Wharf Dock 3 Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

British Invasion Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11 Sailing & Stand-up Paddling Clinic 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Westwind Sailing, OC Sailing & vent Center 7 Art in the Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

British Invasion Car Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Harbor walkway 11

Harbor Music Series oon -3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Antique & Classic Boat Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. ast Marina Parking Lot 6

Whale of a Concert on the Water oon - 5 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Art in the Park 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive 12

Whale of a Concert BBQ and Spirits Garden oon - 5 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Island Way and Dana Point Harbor 12

Kids Fishing Clinic and Trip oon-12 30 p.m. 12 45 p.m.-5 15 p.m.

Dana Wharf Docks 3

Seventh Annual Clam Chowder Cook-Off 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Baby Beach 15 Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern Street/Pacific Coast Highway 8

Harbor Music Series oon -3 p.m. Mariners Village 10

Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby 2 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Harbor Music Series oon-3 p.m. Dana Wharf, Mariners Village 10

Drone Demo 2 p.m.-4 30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

Capt. Dave’s Presents “Entangled Whales: What Can We Do?” 2 p.m.-3 p.m. OC Sailing & vent Center 9 Drone Demo 2 p.m.-4 30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

Festivalofwhales.com

Ocean Institute Education Center 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Whale’s Tale Tallship Sailing Adventure 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Whale of a Pizza Party 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Baby Beach 15

Drone Demo 2 p.m.-4 30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3

Marine Mammal Lecture Series 10 a.m.-11 a.m. Harpoon Henry’s 13

Ocean Institute Education Center 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Capt. Dave’s Under the Sea Eco Carnival oon-2 p.m. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin Deck near Baby Beach 4

Dana Point Historical society Walking Tour of Town Center 2 p.m. Blue Lantern Street/Pacific Coast Highway 8

Purple numbers coincide with map locations on page 6.

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Drone Demo 2 p.m.-4 30 p.m. Dana Wharf Whale Watching 3 FILM Screening: ‘Sonic Sea’ 6 p.m.- p.m. Ocean Institute 5

Whale Watching Every Day of the Event Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Ocean Institute 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Whale Watch from the Bluff Headlands ature Interpretive Center 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.

EVENTS & ATTractions

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

The Festival of Whales Parade

to first, second and third places. 6 per rubber duck or two for $10. Attendees need not be present to win. 15 Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash March 10; 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Westwind Sailing hosts the 3rd annual Cardboard Classic & Dinghy Dash, a fun-filled, family oriented day that includes a cardboard boat building contest (Cardboard Classic) and race (the Dinghy Dash), exhibition booths, food, music and awards. It’s fun for competitors and spectators alike. Teams will work through the morning designing and building their crafts with cardboard and duct tape and then compete by age division in the afternoon, racing in the Harbor with nothing but a paddle and their cardboard ships. $40 per team. Sign up at www.festivalofwhales.com. 15

Purple numbers

coincide with map locations on page 6.

Annual Events

The Festival of Whales Parade March 3; 10 a.m.

The Festival of Whales Parade kicks off the two-weekend celebration of the California gray whale migration with a route along Pacific Coast Highway beginning at Selva Road and ending at Golden Lantern. The parade embraces the Festival’s “Magical Migration” theme, with parade floats, costumes and giant helium parade balloons. The parade also includes a variety of bands, classic automobiles, business and military entries. www.festivalofwhales.com.1 Street Fair March 3; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

The Pet Project Foundation hosts the Street Fair and Whales and Tails Wag-a-Thon at La Plaza Park. Shop at over 70 vendor booths, enjoy music, food trucks, a kiddie area, pet costume contest, souvenirs, a chance to win great prizes and more. www.petprojectfoundation.org 2 Sand Sculpting Competition March 3; 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

OC Parks presents a day of fun, sun and creativity for families, friends and sand sculpting enthusiasts. Contestants may choose to build whales, ocean creatures, pirates and ships, surfing or tropical island-themed creations.

Walk-up entries accepted. 15

Doheny State Beach Whale Walk Painting March 4; 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Help paint a life-sized whale to add to the collection on the Doheny State Beach “Whale Walk” near Boneyard Beach Café. Paint and brushes will be supplied. Free and open to the public. 949.233.0476 or edneely@dohenystatebeach.org. 16 Ocean Awareness Day March 4; 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Presented by the Dana Point Harbor Association, Ocean Awareness Day features interactive displays, demonstrations and entertainment showcasing ocean and environmental programs and issues related to our ocean.

949.923.2255, www.danapointharbor.com. 15 Diamond Dig March 4; 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club hosts the pirate-themed Diamond Dig at Baby Beach.

For one hour, guests dig for buried treasure, including toys, prizes and for one lucky pirate, a beautiful piece of diamond jewelry donated

by Marinelli Fine Jewelry. Tickets are $20.

949.204.7084 or www.monarchbeachrotary. com. 15 Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby March 4; 2 p.m.

The Whale of a Rubber Ducky Derby is a fun spin on the traditional “Rubber Ducky Race” at Baby Beach. Duckies may be purchased the day of the event at the Dana Point Woman’s Club booth at Baby Beach. Prizes will be awarded Festivalofwhales.com

Whale of a Beach Cleanup – Festival of Whales Toast to the Coast!

March 10; 9 a.m.-noon Bring work gloves and a recyclable bag or bucket and help clean up Doheny State Beach.

Meet Park Naturalist Vicki at the lifeguard headquarters and learn more about how to help maintain our precious coastal resources.16

Arts and Culture

Art in the Park March 3, 4, 10, 11; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Local artists display an impressive variety of fine art and craft for sale at the corner of Island Way and Dana Point Harbor Drive. The Dana Point Historical Society will provide free information on local history and display historic photos, books and gifts for purchase. 12 Dana Point Fine Arts Association Show & Sale March 3, 4, 10, 11; 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

The Dana Point Fine Arts Association hosts an art show and sale on the Harbor Boardwalk adjacent to the boat docks in Mariner’s Village to the east of The Coffee Importers and Harpoon Henry’s. Watercolor, oil, acrylic, colored pencil, pastels and photography by many awardwinning local artists will be available. www. danapointfinearts.org. 6 Dana Point Historical Society Walking Tour of Town Center March 3, 4; 2 p.m.

See and hear the stories of historic landmarks such as S.H. Woodruff’s 1920s planned community and Bluff Top harbor views, circa 1818 to 1939, that represent the area’s early history.

949.248.8121 or museum@danapointhistorical.org. 8 PAGE 8

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Dana Hills High School Young Artists Show and Sale March 10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

High school art students display artwork for show and sale in a variety of mediums on the Harbor walkway at Island Way. 12

CLASSIC CAR AND BOAT DISPLAYS

SoCal Woodies car show March 3, 4; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The best from the Southern California Chapter of the National Woodie Club. The Club’s goal is to promote the woodie car, and the role it has played in automotive history and California surf culture. 11 Pacific Coast Corvettes Presents the Legendary Vette March 3, 4; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Harbor walkway will be replete with several generations of Corvettes. Enjoy a variety of beautifully restored and preserved examples of the classic American sports car known colloquially as the Vette. 11 Antique & Classic Boat Show March 10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Antique & Classic Boat Society will display a variety of vessels. The ACBS is dedicated to the preservation, restoration and enjoyment of historic, antique and classic boats, as well as providing education about the vessels’ heritage.

6 British Invasion March 10, 11; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Stroll the Harbor walkway to see a unique display of fine British motorcars including AustinHealeys, Jaguars, Triumphs and more. 11

DANA WHARF WHALE WATCHING AND MORE Marine Mammal Lecture Series March 3, 4, 10, 11; 10-11 a.m.

This special lecture series includes continental breakfast at Harpoon Henry’s. It’s perfect for those who want a one-on-one educational experience. Kirsten Donald, March 3 Pacific Marine Mammal Center; Alisa SchulmanJaniger, (March 4) California Orcas/Gray Whale Census; Todd Mansur, (March 10) Gray Whale Foundation; Justin Viezbicke, (March 11) NOAA Fisheries Entanglement Response. www.danawharf.com. 3 (Cont. on page 10)

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

restaurants and organizations and then vote for your favorite. Taste every entry for 10. Prizes awarded for “People’s Choice,” “Best Booth Design” and “Mayor’s Choice.” The Perpetual Trophy will be presented at 4 p.m. Game booths for all, and a beer and wine garden for adults over 21 with a valid ID. www.fishforlife.org. 15 Boat Builders’ Breaky and BBQ on the Beach March 10; 8 a.m.-noon Breakfast is served by the Veritas Lodge at the OC Sailing & vent Center. Fuel up while watching or participating in the Cardboard Classic/ Dinghy Dash boat building contest and race at Baby Beach. 1

Diamond Dig

Whale of a Concert BBQ and Spirits Garden March 11; Noon-5 p.m. njoy scrumptious barbecue specialties and a Spirits Garden for those over 21 with a valid ID while enjoying the Concert on the Water at Baby Beach. 15

Purple numbers coincide with map locations on page 6.

Cont. from page Kids Free Fishing Clinic and Free Fishing Trip March 4, 11; Noon–12:30 p.m.; 12:45 p.m.-5:15 p.m.

Free dockside fishing clinic where children will learn hands-on fishing techni ues from the experts and have the chance to win fun prizes. After the clinic, Dana Wharf will run a fishing trip from 12 45-5 15 p.m. Free for kids with a paid adult. 46 license and e uipment.

949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. 3 Wyland Whale Watching Art Lessons in the Wild March 3, 10; 10-10:45 a.m.

Learn from one of the masters of marine art with a dockside presentation and art lesson aboard the OCean Adventures catamaran, via video feed, by renowned environmental artist, Wyland. Guests will learn how Wyland has created some of the most well known marine wildlife paintings and sculptures. 5 per child. Children receive a free whale watching trip ticket to use after the lesson. www.danawharf.com. 3 Drone Demo March 3, 4, 10, 11; 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

There will be a 30-minute presentation during the 2.5-hour deluxe whale watching trips demonstrating how drone operators get the perfect shot while maintaining a safe distance from whales and other marine wildlife. Adult guests receive a copy of Dana Wharf’s DVD, the Shores off Dana Point 20 value . 3

DOLPHIN SAFARI WHALE WATCHING AND MORE Capt. Dave’s Under the Sea Eco Carnival March 10; Noon-2 p.m.

Bounce the day away in the under-the sea bounce houses, take photos at the selfie station and learn how you can do your part to keep our ocean clean. Dive deep with Captain Dave’s

one-of-a-kind underwater viewing pod simulation, and more. All ages are welcome. Carnival is free face painting is available for a small fee.

949.4 .2 2 , www.dolphinsafari.com. 4 Capt. Dave’s Presents: ‘Entangled Whales: What Can We Do?’ March 10; 2-3 p.m.

Learn about recent disentanglements that Captain Dave and others were involved with, including the first disentanglement effort of a blue whale that recently made national headlines. Discover more about what is being done, including new e uipment Capt. Dave is developing for tracking whales. OC Sailing and vents Center, 34451 nsenada Place.

949.4 .2 2 . www.dolphinsafari.com. 4

LIVE MUSIC

Harbor Music Series March 3, 4, 10, 11; Noon-3 p.m.

The Dana Point Harbor Association hosts live music soloists and small ensembles in a variety of styles in the Dana Wharf Courtyard, and on the grassy area at Harpoon Henry’s near Mariner’s Village. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com. 3 Whale of a Concert on the Water March 11; Noon-5 p.m.

Head to Baby Beach for a free outdoor concert.

Bands perform on the water atop a floating stage. The concert features three bands Anesha Rose & Midnight Whiskey oon-1 p.m. , The Trip 1 30-3 p.m. and The PettyBreakers 3 30-5 p.m. . 949.24 .3530. 15

FOOD OPTIONS

Whale of a Pizza Party March 3; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Grab a slice of Beach Harbor Pizza and a drink, served up by the Veritas Lodge adjacent to Baby Beach during the sand sculpting contest. 15 Whale of a Pancake Breakfast March 4; 8-10:30 a.m. oin the Dana Point Woman’s Club for a pancake breakfast adjacent to Baby Beach. While there, purchase a rubber ducky for the club’s Rubber Ducky Derby later in the day. 15 Whale of a BBQ March 4; 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

A hamburger and hotdog barbecue will be served up by the Knights of Columbus adjacent to Baby Beach during Ocean Awareness Day. 15 Seventh Annual Whale of a Clam Chowder Cook-Off March 10; 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Sample a variety of tasty chowders from local Festivalofwhales.com

OCEAN INSTITUTE WHALE WATCHING AND MORE OCEAN institute education center Weekend on the Wharf March 3, 4; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. xplore the history of sailing along the California shore. Learn how sailing impacted development of Dana Point via interactive history discussions about Richard Henry Dana r. See a whaling exhibition, tour the historic tall ship Brig Pilgrim, and more. Discounted admission 5, this weekend only. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5 OCEAN institute education center Magical Migration March 10, 11; 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Take a hands-on journey into the mysterious and captivating world of whales and explore

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a variety of fascinating phenomena uni ue to these magnificent animals. Follow the migration of the gray whale as you move through the facility, starting in Baja, moving on to the California Coast, and ending up in Alaska.

Tickets 10 for non-member adults, 7.50 for non-member seniors and children. Members and children under 2 are free. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5 Whale Watching Eco Tours aboard the R/V Sea Explorer March 3, 4, 10, 11; 8:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m. & 2 p.m. oin marine educators in exploring the ocean from top to bottom while searching for some of the world’s largest and smallest creatures during the 1.5-hour cruise. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5 Whale’s Tale Sailing Adventure aboard the Spirit of Dana Point March 3, 4, 10, 11; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. xplore how time and discovery have shaped man’s perception of the gray whale on this tall ship sailing adventure while gaining insight into man’s evolving relationship with the ocean and the giants that roam the California Coast.

Adults 60 children 12 and under minimum age 4 are 40. Members receive a 10 percent discount. Weekend admission to the Institute is included with the sail ticket purchase.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5 Film Screening: ‘Sonic Sea’ and Q&A with Filmmaker March 11; 6-8 p.m.

The Ocean Institute is honored to host a screening of Sonic Sea, an mmy-winning film about protecting sea life from the destructive effects of oceanic noise pollution. Learn more about the film, noise pollution and the atural Resources Defense Council during a uestion-and-answer-session with co-director and co-producer Daniel Hinerfeld after the film. Tickets 10 in advance or 15 at the door. Cash bar, for those over 21 with valid ID food and refreshments available for purchase.

949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. 5

SAILING AND PADDLING

Sailing Rides March 3, 4, 11; 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Take a sailing ride and learn how to steer and sail a Capri 14. Ages 5 and up. Tickets are 15 per boat with a three-person maximum per boat. Call Westwind Sailing for details.

949.492.3035. 7 Stand-Up Paddling Clinics March 3, 4, 11; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. oin the SUP craze during a 45-minute clinic. ach clinic is held on the hour, depending on weather and conditions. Ages 12 and up 12to 14-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets are 10 per person. Life jackets are provided. Call Westwind Sailing for details.

949.492.3035. 7

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

Set Your Sights on Whale Watching While in Dana Point for the Festival of Whales, there are many options for visitors to see ocean wildlife up close.

Choose from three businesses offering different whale watching experiences.

Captain Dave’s Whale Watching Safari

Captain Dave’s provides trips aboard their customized catamarans, which allow guests to get up close and personal with wildlife. The Mantue’a offers eye-to-eye underwater viewing pods and a hydrophone to hear below the surface. Multiple trips are planned for both weekends of the Festival. Tickets vary depending on the trip and range from $20 to $65.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive. 949.488. 2828. www.dolphinsafari.com.

Dana Wharf Whale Watching

Hop aboard one of Dana Wharf’s adventure cruises for a chance to catch a glimpse into the huge variety of underwater wildlife with their multiple whale watching trips every day. Cruises depart on the hour and are narrated by expert captains aboard a variety of vessels. Tickets vary, but range from $15 to $55.

34675 Street of the Golden Lantern. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

Ocean Institute

Join the Ocean Institute’s scientists on a whale watching cruise aboard the R/V Sea Explorer. The 2.5-hour cruise will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 3; 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 4; 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 10; and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 11. Tickets are $45 for adults, $35 for seniors and active duty military members and $25 for children.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.com.

Land Locked? Walk along the bluff-top Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center’s 3 miles of trails to view the whale migration from above.

The Center is open daily from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and the trails are accessible from 7 a.m. to sunset. 34558 Scenic Drive. 949.248.3527. www.danapoint.org.

47th annual festival of whales March 3-4 & 10-11, 2018

Whale Entanglement and How Whale Watchers Can Help

T

BY DAVE ANDERSON

here are a remarkable number of year-round whales and dolphins just off of the coast of Dana Point.

Throughout the year, various species can be seen including blue whales, humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and the gray whales that Dana Point is celebrating with our annual festival.

With so many beautiful animals to encounter, like it or not, whale watchers are on the front lines for protecting and helping whales, regardless of if they’re on a commercial whale watching vessel or operating their own recreational boat. Anyone who watches whales may be the first to spot one in trouble, and as a result, most rescues begin with a sighting from a whale watching boat. Without help, injured or entangled whales can suffer greatly and die.

In 2016, the most recent year that official federal data became available, 71 whales were reported entangled off of the coasts of California, Oregon and Washington. This includes 54 reported humpback whales, four reported endangered blue whales and one killer whale. 2016 represents the highest annual total of reported whale entanglements off of the U.S. West Coast since NOAA Fisheries began record keeping in 1982. An estimated 308,000 dolphins and whales worldwide die every year because of fishing gear entanglement.

The majority of these entangled whales were spotted and reported first by whale watchers.

Many of these vessels not only reported these animals to the proper authorities, but also stayed with the whales until trained rescue teams could arrive. This action resulted in some whales surviving their entanglements.

Unfortunately, however, the majority of whale disentanglement efforts fail to remove all of the entangled gear, and as a result, the entangled whales often die later.

The vast majority of whale and dolphin entanglements worldwide are caused by active fishing gear. Dungeness crab traps are the primary source of entanglements off of California.

In 2016, 19 humpback whales were reported as entangled in commercial crab trap fishery gear.

The rope and buoy attached to the crab traps are what entangles the whale. So, if we eliminate the rope and buoy, we could end the majority of the entanglements.

As I write this, I am in Australia to meet with the president of Fiomarine Industries, an innovative company that has designed and built an electronic pop-up buoy called the Fiobuoy. The device allows the rope and buoy to stay coiled up on the bottom of the ocean until a fisherman flips a switch on his boat. A sonic release is triggered and the buoy and rope float to the surface. The Fiobuoy will automatically provide its location to the fisherman and the local Fish

Tips for Safe Whale Watching Whale watching is fun, but there are important precautions you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of the whales. We asked National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Education Coordinator Alicia Keefe to share guidelines for whale watchers and boaters at this year’s Festival of Whales and beyond.

Photo: Craig DeWitt/Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

and Game Authority to prevent loss, or fishing in restricted areas. The buoy has a fail-safe electronic and galvanic release that can be set to release whenever a fisherman chooses. The Fiobuoy has the potential to eliminate most entanglements.

An individual buoy can cost about $10,000. I convinced the CEO of Fiomarine, John Fiotakis, to send me one of these buoys in the hopes we could get crab fishermen off of California to try it. John assured me that if he received an order of 200,000 Fiobuoys, the equivalent of the number of Dungeness crab traps currently operating off of California, he could mass produce them and lower the price to about $300 each.

Crab fishermen and conservation organizations have formed a working group off of Central California to solve the problem of entanglement. Conservation groups like the Center for Biological Diversity have sued to stop the problem. And lawmakers are considering legislation to prevent it. Commercial crab fishing has not changed much in the last century. Maybe it’s time to bring crab fishing into the 21st century. If not Fiobuoy then some similar technology can certainly be fine-tuned to eliminate these entangling ropes and buoys.

After all, how much is a whale worth?

If we can end the Dungeness crab trap entanglements here in California, then we can do the same on the East Coast as well, where endangered right whales risk extinction because of entanglement in similar gear, (along with some other issues, but the biggest cause of death is entanglement), according to a recent NOAA report. And then the U.S. can be a model to help solve this problem worldwide, where we are losing nearly 1,000 dolphins and whales every day to entanglement.

After whale watching the last few weeks off of New Zealand and Australia, I can once again Festivalofwhales.com

tell you that we have some of the best whale and dolphin watching in the world in Southern California. Thankfully, most whales we see off California are healthy and free of entanglements.

What you can do to help whales If you spot an entangled whale, please call 1.877.767.9425 or hail the U.S. Coast Guard on Channel 16. For your safety, do not approach the animal or attempt disentanglement.

Remain at a safe distance, and if possible, stay with the whale until trained rescue teams arrive or another boat can relieve you. Make a note of the location and species of the whale or a description. Without getting too close, try to get photos or videos of the entanglement, which can provide helpful information to rescuers.

This stage is critical as most reported whales are lost if no one stays with them.

Buy U.S. caught fish. We have more restrictions on our fishing and less bycatch than many other countries. These restrictions mean that fish cost more to catch in the U.S. and imports are likely cheaper. That is unfair to U.S. fishermen. Importing fish caught without as many rules means more whales, dolphins and other animals die. The Marine Mammal Protection Act MMPA specifically bans this type of trade and prohibits importing seafood that is caught with more bycatch than our U.S. fisheries allow our fishermen to have. However, this law is not being well enforced.

You can support new laws that protect whales and dolphins with the enforcement of the MMPA. • Capt. Dave Anderson, along with his wife Gisele, owns Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari.

He formed Orange County Whale Rescue and has been involved in many whale disentanglement efforts.

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Guidelines for all whale watchers • Whale watching can be a positive and enriching experience when conducted responsibly. We must remember that our presence has an effect on whales and their habitat. Just like us, whales need space to find food, choose mates, raise young, socialize and rest. When we get too close, approach too fast, or make too much noise, we can interrupt natural behaviors and cause unnecessary stress.

• Stay at least 100 yards away from all marine mammals.

• Be cautious and quiet when around areas of known or suspected wildlife activity, at haul-outs, and bird colonies.

• It is illegal to harass marine mammals, which means to disrupt their natural behaviors including feeding, nursing, resting and migration. To report violations, call the NOAA Fisheries Enforcement Hotline: 1.800.853.1964.

Additional guidelines for boaters • Look in all directions before planning your approach or departure from viewing wildlife.

• Reduce your speed to less than 7 knots while in the presence of marine mammals.

• Move parallel to the animal’s direction of travel and keep their path clear. Do not approach from the front or from behind.

Avoid any abrupt course changes.

• When whales are traveling close to shore, stay on their offshore side.

• If a whale approaches you, put the engine in neutral and allow the whale to pass.

• View whales for no more than 30 minutes. This will reduce the cumulative impact of all vessels and give consideration to other viewers.

For more information, visit www.bewhalewise.org.

The website is continually updated with new information.

SHOP & DINE DANA POINT HARBOR

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10)

Monday | 05 KOI FISH FEEDING 12:45 p.m. Everyday visitors are welcome to help Mission San Juan Capistrano feed their koi fish in both courtyards. Fish food is free for Mission Preservation Society members and $1 for non-members. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano.

949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

WELLNESS AND PREVENTION CENTER FRIEND RAISER 5-8:30 p.m. The Wellness and Prevention Center is hosting a “Friend Raiser” at The Cellar to help educate new members on how the center supports youth and families. Tickets are $50 per person or $90 for

two. The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.498.7276. www.wpc-oc.org.

Tuesday | 06 HAPA J’S TACO TUESDAY 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Join Hapa J’s for a taco Tuesday that reaches beyond your average chicken or carne asada tacos. Enjoy seared ahi poke, kalbi short rib and kalua pig tacos in addition to the more traditional selections. 2016 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.276.6675. www.hapajs.com.

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to The Capistrano Dispatch by going to www.thecapistranodispatch.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

At the Movies: Marvel’s ‘Black Panther’ Saves Studio’s Day

BY MEGAN BIANCO, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

B

y now, it’s pretty obvious that Marvel movies are fool-proof, no matter how underwhelming or barely decent the quality of the blockbuster might be.

The mega franchise celebrates its 10th anniversary this year since 2008’s Iron Man, and even when critical disappointments like Iron Man 2 (2010), Thor: The Dark World (2013) or Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) occur, they still do well financially. But the current Marvel release, Black Panther, is one of the more original superhero films to come out in terms of direction.

Days after the events of Captain America: Civil War (2016), Prince T’Challa of Wakanda (Chadwick Boseman) is still mourning the death of his father, King T’Chaka (John Kani). At the same time, a new villain, Erik Stevens (Michael B. Jordan) is on Earth ready to overthrow the Wakanda government in revenge for the murder of his own father by T’Chaka. T’Challa’s former flame and Wakanda spy Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and his precocious, tech-savvy little sister Shuri (Letitia Wright) work alongside

Photo: Marvel Studios

T’Challa to better Wakanda as a nation.

Martin Freeman, Daniel Kaluuya and Angela Bassett co-star.

Black Panther is directed and co-written

by Ryan Coogler of Fruitvale Station (2013) and Creed (2015) fame, and this is another success in his rise from indie cred to studio filmmaker. Much like the Guardians of the Galaxy flicks, Panther’s atmosphere and environment aren’t as typically comic-book style as you would think with something like Spider-Man or Batman. The characters are fresh, and some political questions are brought up in a surprisingly fluid way. CD

On Stage at The Coach House: Keiko Matsui

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

he breezy, joyful sounds of Keiko Matsui’s piano playing are hitting the stage at The Coach House at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 4.

One might recognize Matsui’s whimsically complex solo-piano tunes such as “Dawn” or “Light Above the Tree,” from about 15 years ago, but her most recent songs come from her 2016 album Journey To The Heart. The new album features jazz rhythms with percussion and acoustic strings, which creates a multi-dimensional sound to Matsui’s original compositions.

“You will find many elements (in my music); I want you to enjoy the journey with the music wherever you go,” Matsui said.

This will be Matsui’s second visit to The Coach House, having performed at the San Juan Capistrano venue years ago, she said.

A professional pianist and composer of 30 years with 27 albums, Matsui said that she always feels excited to perform live music and to connect with her audience.

“At my concerts, I feel grateful that I get to have this experience with my audience,” Matsui said.

The performance at The Coach House can be expected to feature many tunes from the newer album, which is unique in the sense that experimenting with acoustics is new for Matsui, she said.

“It’s uplifting,” she said. “It has energy and repertoire.”

A firm believer that music “has no borders,” Matsui originally hails from Japan and lives in Southern California. Usually on the road (more accurately, in the air), Matsui tours internationally to Europe, Mexico and Japan, in addition to across the nation to play her classical—and sometimes jazzy—melodies.

A lover of nature, Matsui said that a significant amount of her songwriting and composing inspiration comes from admir-

Pianist and composer Keiko Matsui is coming to The Coach House on Sunday, March 4. Photo: Courtesy of Chapman & Co. Management

ing the Earth from above in airplanes.

“Sometimes when I’m flying over continents, I’ll see many different oceans,” Matsui said. “I have a song called ‘Deep Blue,’ which is inspired by the ocean because the ocean connects all of the continents. I hope my music connects people as well.”

Nature and the environment are common themes in Matsui’s music, with many titles using elements such as the moon, and sometimes creating “call to action” songs. An example is Matsui’s song “Antarctica,” an alert to all to help save nature, she said.

Although all of her self-composed songs have important meanings to her, Matsui said that at each performance, the goal is to have fun.

“Every time I’m at a concert, I feel very fortunate because nowadays, with people having many problems, music connects us despite our backgrounds,” Matsui said.

“We can all experience musical harmony.”

The doors open for the show at 5 p.m. and it starts at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 4 at The Coach House, located at 33157 Camino Capistrano. Tickets are $25 and can be bought online at www.thecoachhouse.com. CD

SJC LIVING PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Clockwise from top left: Keilani Harris, 7, stands next to her 220-pound dog Boris. The duo competed in the costume contest as Beauty and the Beast. John “Fish” Fischle presents the Deputy Dog Spirit Award, in honor of the late corgi who came to the Kids’ Pet Parade, to Tatum, 8, and her dog Max. Rhianna Dodd displays her four pet beetles, which she saved from her sister’s lizard, during the “Exotic Pet” section of the Kids’ Pet Parade. She tied for first place. Tinkerbell, a young chihuahua, sports a bumblebee costume at the Kids’ Pet Parade at Los Rios Park on Feb. 17. Haven Harris, 4, won the overall award for the Kids’ Pet Parade with her dog Ava. Photos: Emily Rasmussen

Kids’ Pet Parade Sniffs Out Adorable Pets, Their Young Owners

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

S

ome 60 kids, pets and onlookers crowded the Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano for the annual Kids’ Pet Parade on Feb. 17.

The parade, hosted by the Fiesta Association, featured a variety of categories that ranged from finger-sized beetles to a 220-lb mastiff.

The categories, which allowed for two winners, included “Domestic Pet,” “Best Team Costume,” “Exotic Pet” and “Kid at

Heart.” Havin Harris, 4, and her dog Ava, who sported pink tutus, were the overall winners of the parade and have a guaranteed spot at the upcoming 60th Swallows Day Parade on Saturday, March 24.

The laugh-inducing kids and dressed-up dogs, among other contestants, brought smiles to crowds and the judges, who included Ms. Fiesta (Nina Leone), Senor San Juan (Jimmy Ferguson) and grand marshal Steve Oedekerk.

To view more photos, visit this story online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com. CD

Pet of the Week: Chestnut Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

T

his handsome guy is Chestnut, a ragdoll mix looking for his purrfect home. Found as a stray, Chestnut is still learning to trust and can be timid initially. He is finally starting to come out of his shell and is figuring out which are his favorite toys. Chestnut would likely fit best with a quiet family.

If you would like to know more about Chestnut, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. CD

The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

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

Solution:

Chestnut. Photo: Courtesy

Page 12

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

Business Beat News from San Juan Capistrano’s business community

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

New Business BUENO BUENO MEXICAN KITCHEN 26762 Verdugo Street, 949.661.1299 www.sundriedtomatobistro.com Sundried Tomato American Bistros & Catering is slated to introduce Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen, a new MexicanAmerican, fast-casual restaurant, to San Juan Capistrano on Monday, March 5.

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen will feature organic Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist, with beverages including a variety of beers, creative horchatas and mescal-based cocktails. The restaurant will boast its from-scratch eats with a visible tortilla making station and tequila sipping bar.

“Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen is designed to offer a culinary destination featuring contemporary Mexican cuisine in an attractive and fun environment under the theme ‘panza llena, corazon contento (full belly, happy heart),’” a press state-

A rendering of the patio of Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen. Photo: Courtesy of Sundried Tomato American Bistros & Catering

ment said.

Near the San Juan Capistrano train depot, guests who stroll by the restaurant’s patio area and walk into the lively establishment will be introduced by AmericanSpanish pop and rock music, with bar and table seating.

“Years ago, we started something called the family meal in the catering kitchen at our sister restaurant down the street,

Sundried Tomato. The meal usually takes place in the late morning, and the cuisine is almost always Mexican. We use only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and it’s always a group effort,” said Managing Partner Rob Quest in a press statement. “Everything is put onto a butcherblock table, and whoever is around is always welcome. We noticed that vendors and salespeople started to time their visits

around this meal. The food is so good we always say ‘bueno bueno.’ Now, we’re very excited to launch this concept as its own restaurant and share it with everyone.”

Bueno Bueno Mexican Kitchen is being cultivated by Quest and Reymundo Pinedo, who is creating the menu. Once open in March, the restaurant will have daily lunch and dinner, with breakfast specials on weekends.

SJC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50 by Tom Blake

Romance at the Bargain Box Thrift Shop

T

he Bargain Box Thrift Shop, located at 526 N. El Camino Real in San Clemente, is a wonderful place. It’s run by volunteers from the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley. All proceeds from sales there are put back into the local community.

The funds are used to provide new school clothing to families who need assistance in the Capistrano Unified School District. Also funded are new school clothing and toddler clothing giveaways at Camp Pendleton.

The Thrift Shop is the main source of income for the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley philanthropies.

Working at the thrift shop, volunteers Nancy Cormier and Donna O’Donnell meet a lot of interesting people. They said they had no idea that their shop was also a place for senior romance—until two weeks ago.

That’s when a couple named Craig and Ilda Kendall came in to their thrift shop to do some serious shopping. Craig told Nancy and Donna, “The Bargain Box Thrift Shop has special meaning to us.

That’s why we stop here whenever we are near San Clemente.”

The two women were curious, particularly because Craig and Ilda said they live in Calimesa, near Big Bear Lake, not exactly in the South County area. The women wanted to know more about this attractive couple.

Craig said, “Your thrift store was the perfect place for me to propose to Ilda.

You see, we both love antiques, nice clothes and jewelry. Our families both spent time on the beach in San Clemente when we were kids. We are amazed that San Clemente has retained its friendly,

beach-town atmosphere.

“In 2010, when Ilda and I were here, it just hit me, and I asked her to marry me right in the shop.”

“Eight years ago?” Donna asked, thinking Craig and Ilda probably married shortly after that.

Ilda said, “To celebrate our wedding, and to ‘pay it forward’ to others less fortunate than us, we stopped here today.

As always, when here, the volunteers are so friendly and kind. It is obvious you love working here.”

“So, when did you tie the knot?” Donna asked.

“Three weeks ago,” Ilda replied.

Donna and Nancy were dumbfounded.

They looked at each other and said this is a story for Tom Blake’s On Life and Love after 50 column in the newspaper.

Craig gave Donna and Nancy their email address and telephone number, and then Nancy took a photo of them as they left the Thrift Shop.

The two women sent me an email. My challenge was to contact Craig and Ilda, to gather a little more information.

ON LIFE AND Because my partner LOVE AFTER 50 Greta and I were going

By Tom Blake to Palm Springs on Valentine’s Day for a week, time was of the essence.

As Greta and I were driving on Palm Canyon Drive into Palm Springs, my cell phone rang. It was Craig and Ilda. I explained where we were, and Craig said, “That is an amazing coincidence!”

He and Ilda were on their way to Palm Springs as well. We thought about meeting for dinner, but it was Valentine’s Day and the restaurants were already booked.

Greta and I just happened to have some wine with us, and we ended up meeting Craig and Ilda at the Palm Springs Tennis Club where we were staying. We popped the corks and got to know them in person.

Craig is 72. Ilda is 67. They knew each other in 1962 when living in Riverside. It was apparent from the conversation that Craig had had a keen eye for Ilda since then, although both had married and gone their separate ways.

Photo: Courtesy of the Orange County Archives’ Knott’s Berry Farm Collection

FROM THE ARCHIVES This photo features the Knotts and others at Mission San Juan Capistrano, circa 1940s. Walter and Cordelia Knott (second and third from the left) and others feed pigeons at the Mission. The bell wall and the ruins of the Old Stone Church can be seen in the background.

Every issue, The Capistrano Dispatch will publish a historical photo. Online, The Capistrano Dispatch will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photo for consideration, provide information about the photo along with your name, date, location and a small description to erasmussen@picketfencemedia.com.

After Craig was divorced and Ilda was widowed, they reconnected on Match.com and had their first date at the Five Crowns Restaurant in Corona Del Mar in 2010. At that time, Craig lived in Running Springs and Ilda lived in Crestline, near Big Bear.

Greta and I could not believe that a senior romance that began at the Bargain Box Thrift Shop in San Clemente eight years before led to a totally impromptu meeting with Craig and Ilda at the Palm Springs Tennis Club on Valentine’s Day, 2018.

Never give up on love; you just never know where or when it’s going to happen.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.comand www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

SJC LIVING

A Night at the Movies

San Juan Capistrano rolls out the red carpet for annual ‘Night at the Oscars’

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A

s film lovers prepare for the Academy Awards, locals can enjoy a glimpse behind the scenes of this year’s nominated films and learn what it takes to win an Oscar at local producer and director Robert Kline’s “A Night at the Oscars” event on Thursday, March 1.

“A Night at the Oscars” is celebrating its annual film-focused event with Kline and co-host Stephanie Heredia, who host the event every year at the Regency Theatre, located at 26762 Verdugo Street.

It’s the 90th anniversary for the Academy Awards on Sunday, March 4, with nine-nominated films that are up for the “Best Picture” award. The films are: Call Me By Your Name, Darkest Hour, Dunkirk, Get Out, Lady Bird, Phantom Thread, The Post, The Shape of Water and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.

San Juan Capistrano’s “Night at the Oscars” is four days before the “real” Oscars,

San Juan Capistrano residents Robert Kline and Stephanie Heredia are hosting the annual “A Night at the Oscars” event on Thursday, March 1. Photo: File

where attendees can vote for their top-five favorite films. The event always sells out at nearly 150 seats for the viewings and Kline’s “inside information,” of the Oscars’ ceremony and process, he said.

“I give them a lifetime of experience,” Kline said.

Kline goes over everything from what a director’s role is in film-making, to the specifics of the meaning of each category of the Oscars awards. He said the event is “two-thirds lecture and one-third viewing,”

with two-minute segments from each of the nine-nominated films.

Something unique at this year’s “Night at the Oscars” event is a tribute to the 40th anniversary of the Star Wars franchise.

“I’m doing a tribute to Star Wars and its unique characters, from Hans Solo to Princes Leia, to Luke and Obi-One,” said Kline, who was the head of Fox when the original Star Wars hit the screens in 1977.

The event kicks off at 3:30 p.m. and goes until 6:30 p.m. for happy hour at

GUEST OPINION: Branching Out by San Juan Capistrano Library Staff and the Friends of the Library

Library Offers New Learning Website

F

ebruary is Library Lovers’ Month, a month-long celebration of libraries of all types. And there’s a lot happening at OC Public Libraries to earn your love.

First, hats off to Melissa Dolby, San Juan Capistrano’s children’s librarian.

She was selected as OC Public Libraries’ Employee of the Month for January for her outstanding dedication to our young patrons. Please congratulate her on your next visit to the library.

OC Public Libraries is pleased to announce its newest digital resource. Starting Feb. 1, library card holders can enjoy excellent online learning with www.lynda. com. Lynda.com is an ever-expanding learning database with courses in web design, animation, business applications, photography, management and more.

Tutorials are available that let you work at

The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2017

Visitors walk toward the San Juan Capistrano Library during 2016’s Swallows Day Parade. Photo: File

your own pace and help you keep track of your progress.

To start using this outstanding website, go to www.ocpl.org, click on “eLibrary”, then “Online Training” and choose www. lynda.com. Once on the www.lynda.com website, use your library card information to access all that it has to offer. Don’t have one? Stop by the library to get your free card today.

While you’re on the www.ocpl.org website, check out the language-learning program, Mango. Mango teaches conver-

sation in over 70 languages. Now is your chance to explore a language you’ve always wanted to learn, or express affection in another language as a romantic gesture.

Click on “eLibrary” then “Language” and enter your library card number. Mango is free and accessible from your computer, tablet or phone, so you can learn on the go.

These are just a couple of the numerous opportunities to explore, study and learn online, and your library card is the key to access them. For patrons who may

Page 15

Rick’s Cafe, then to the Regency Theatre.

Tickets are $15 at the door or can be purchased online for $16 at www.regencymovies.com.

“If you like film, you’ll love this evening,” Kline said. “With all of the films I have produced, my Oliver Stone film, ones I’ve directed or written—when the lights go out, the audience knows as much about film as I do because they know what they like or don’t like.”

For more information, call 949.661.3456. CD

not have a computer or access to the internet, the San Juan Capistrano Library has a number of computers available and staff to help with any questions. For those who have their own laptop or other electronic device, free WiFi is also available, and there are a lot of comfortable places to sit.

The San Juan Capistrano Library is located at 31495 El Camino Real. It is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, is closed Friday, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Some events to keep an eye out for include Preschool Storytime at 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 27; Knit Lit Book Club at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 27; Asian Brush Painting Class at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 3; and Archaeology Lecture Series at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6.

The “Branching Out” column is a collaboration between San Juan Capistrano Library staff and the Friends of the Library, a nonprofit that supports the library and its programs by raising funds through its on-site bookstore and special events. For more information on the library, visit www.ocpl.org or follow @SJCFriends on Facebook. CD PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, The Capistrano Dispatch 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 The Capistrano Dispatch or Picket Fence Media.

If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@thecapistranodispatch.com

www.thecapistranodispatch.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

St. Margaret’s Bryce Chan battles for a ball against Walnut in a second-round game at St. Margaret’s High School on Feb. 20. Chan scored a hat trick in the 4-0 win. Photo Zach Cavanagh

San Juan Preps Roundup

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

For in-game updates, news and more for all San Juan Capistrano sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports.

Girls Soccer Teams Push on to Quarterfinals

All five San Juan Capistrano girls soccer teams qualified for the CIF-SS playoffs and three won their first two matches to enter the quarterfinals.

JSerra continued on its roll in Division 1 as defending CIF-SS and State champions.

A uniform violation forced the Lions to open the playoffs on the road, but JSerra crushed Dana Hills, 6-1. The Lions and goalkeeper Ryan Campbell posted their 17th shutout of the season with a secondround home win over Chino Hills.

JSerra goes back on the road for the quarterfinals at Santiago of Corona on Feb. 23.

St. Margaret’s continued its own dominance into the Division 4 playoffs.

The Tartans and goalkeeper Kennedy Barlow posted shutouts in their first two playoff games for 21 on the season and seventh in a row. St. Margaret’s topped Kennedy, 1-0, and Walnut, 4-0, both at home.

Bryce Chan put in three goals against Walnut to lead the Tartans. Lauren McCaffrey scored the lone goal against Kennedy and added two assists against Walnut.

St. Margaret’s travels to Montclair for the quarterfinals on Feb. 23.

Saddleback Valley Christian continues Page 16

on in Division 7 with a record-setting and record-eyeing duo on offense.

Alexa Vernola’s two assists in the Warriors’ first-round win over Indian Springs, 2-0, gave her the single-season CIF-SS record for assists at 56.

Mej Carpentier scored both goals against Indian Springs and added another in SVC’s second-round win at Yucca Valley, 2-1. Carpentier is now tied for third in CIFSS career goals at 191. Vernola also scored against Yucca Valley.

SVC travels to take on Santa Clarita Christian in the quarterfinals on Feb. 23.

JSerra Girls Basketball Falls in Quarterfinals

JSerra was outpaced on the road at Lynwood, 58-47, in Division 2AA. Lynwood led after the first quarter, 15-5, and led by 11 points at halftime. JSerra couldn’t get back over the hump.

Alex Iemsisanith led JSerra with 17 points and Caroline Piedra added 11 points.

JSerra finished third in the Trinity League and posted wins over El Rancho of Pico Rivera, 58-43, and Burroughs of Burbank, 35-27.

JSerra Boys Basketball Coach Zach Brogdon Retires

On Feb. 21, Lions head coach Zach Brogdon announced he is retiring from coaching.

Brogdon, 30, stepped down to become the new high school youth pastor for Stonehill Church in Meridian, Idaho.

Brogdon put together 161 wins in eight seasons as a head coach, two at JSerra after six at Capistrano Valley Christian.

Brogdon was 36-21 at JSerra leading the Lions to the playoffs in both seasons and to their first Open Division berth in 2017.

CD www.thecapistranodispatch.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY CLASSIFIEDS PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

Submit your classified ad online at www.thecapistranodispatch.com FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too!

Mike, Lantern Bay Carpets 949-240-1545.

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

IPHONE 6S ultra slim backup battery, auto light charger adapter, mobil seal 2, premium charge/sync cable. All new. All this for $375.

Available in Capo Beach. 760-519-14914

GARAGE SALES RUMMAGE SALE - SAN JUAN ELEMENTARY SAT MARCH 3RD 7AM - 1PM HAVE SOMETHING YOU WANT TO SELL OR BUY? We want to invite you to the SJCEF 2nd Annual Rummage Sale! Ample, Affordable space is available! 949-813-2081, San Juan Elem 31642 El Camino Real SJC

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

HELP WANTED

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@thecapistranodispatch.com

COATING/FILMING EQUIPMENT SUPERVISOR-TECHNICIAN Adhesive film manufacturer needing supervisor to work within our adhesive manufacturing process. $20 to $24 /hr For more info, full job description or submit resume, e-mail career@stretech.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

COATING/FILMING EQUIPMENT OPERATOR Manufacturer needing equipment operator to work within our adhesive manufacturing process. $14 to $16 /hr For more info, full job description or submit resume, e-mail career@ stretech.com

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DANA POINT MARINA INN -NOW HIRING: Front desk help. Two F/T positions open. $12 to $13, per hour. Apply in person. 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point

SERVICES NEEDING HELP? Professional health minded, Personal Assistant-life coach will visit you or a loved one to uplift, give support, run errands, shop, outings, pet sit, drive. Reasonable. Excellent references and resume. Call Joanne 949-632-7312 The Capistrano Dispatch February 23–March 8, 2018

Page 17

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Learning to Fly San Juan Capistrano native reclaims the American long jump record; sets sights on 2020 Paralympic gold

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

I

t’s hard not to believe that everything happens for a reason. Things happen as they are meant to happen.

Trenten Merrill could have been ordinary. Not in any unremarkable way, but he could have been a typical active 27-year-old Southern California guy.

He is athletic, goes to the beach and surfs in his time off as well as camps and goes off-roading. Merrill is like many who grew up in San Juan Capistrano.

But after having his right leg amputated after his foot was crushed by a car in 2005, Merrill started on a path to being extraordinary.

Merrill is a Paralympian, world championship silver medalist and now an American long jump record-holder.

“I dreamed about being a professional athlete,” Merrill said. “In the hospital, I thought it was taken away from me. God had plans for me, and I see now, he sure did.

It would have been news to me back then.”

Merrill reclaimed the American long jump record in the T/F44 classification with a mark of 7.02 meters at the New Mexico Classic on Feb. 2 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. T/F44 is one of seven Paralympic sports classes applying to athletes with a single below knee amputation.

“It’s cool to see the hard work pay off,” Merrill said. “It’s just a cool accomplishment. It doesn’t define me, but it’s attached to my name. For me, (the record is) going to continue to break throughout this season and the years to come. It’s cool to have that measurement to continue to push that envelope.”

Without even realizing it, he broke the record on his first jump with a leap of 6.99 meters.

“I didn’t even know,” Merrill said. “I didn’t even look, I just walked back.”

Merrill went past that mark on his second jump for the 7.02-meter result, and his attention was finally brought to the record.

“I was focused on what my coach told me to do,” Merrill said. “After I jumped the next time, coach told me to look at the board.”

As a kid, Merrill was always participating in sports. He played soccer, baseball, volleyball and basketball, among others like surfing and off-roading.

In 2005, Merrill, then 14 years old, was crossing the street with his best friend when he was hit by a car. The accident crushed his right foot.

“The doctors wanted to amputate imThe Capistrano Dispatch Febraury 23–March 8, 2018

San Juan Capistrano native Trenten Merrill trains at the Elite Athlete Training Center in Chula Vista. Merrill began in sprints before moving to long jump. Photo: Courtesy Trenten Merrill Athletics

had the determination inside to do everything I could “doIbefore.

I developed this work ethic that I had to work twice as hard in everything I do. ”

—Trenten Merrill

mediately,” Merrill said, “but my parents wanted to try and make it heal. After two months, the doctors said it had to go.”

His right leg was amputated just below the knee, but Merrill wasn’t slowed down.

As soon as he could, Merrill was up and active.

“It was mainly once my limb decreased inflammation and I could get a leg to start walking on,” Merrill said of his recovery process. “Once I could get up to a jog, I went immediately into playing sports with my friends and went back to school and playing sports. I had the determination inside to do everything I could do before.

I developed this work ethic that I had to work twice as hard in everything I do.”

Merrill continued through two years at JSerra Catholic High School before finishing high school at Capistrano Valley High School.

Track and field didn’t find Merrill until he was 20 at Saddleback College.

On the urging of his prosthetics provider, Merrill attended a running clinic for amputees in Irvine.

“I didn’t want to go,” Merrill said. “I knew how to run. I didn’t know why he wanted me to go. He eventually guilttripped me into going.”

At the clinic, he met U.S. Paralympic

coach Joaquim Cruz, who won the 800-meter Olympic gold medal for Brazil in 1984.

“He came up and introduced himself to me,” Merrill said. “I met other Paralympians, like (three-time Paralympic gold medalist) Brian Frasure. That was the first time I had heard of it (the Paralympics).

Didn’t think much of it off the bat.”

Merrill held onto Cruz’s card and eventually took him up on the offer of an invite to the training center in Chula Vista. Once he visited, Merrill was enthralled.

“This was my dream when I was a kid,” Merrill said. “Professional athletes training day in and day out. This is where I want to be.”

Once he got a running blade, Merrill took right to it and got going.

Merrill got his first big competition experience at the 2009 nationals, but it went nowhere near how he expected.

“I missed my race because they changed the schedule,” Merrill said. “‘Dude you missed your race.’ What do you mean? ‘They just went.’ I went down and ran by myself. I didn’t make finals. I saw what it was like and I’m going to train harder and start making finals.”

Merrill continued forward training for 400 meters then moved down into the 100 and 200. At the 2015 world championships, Merrill competed in the 100-meter and 200-meter and earned a silver medal in the 4x100-meter relay.

“Being able to run that well at that stage,” Merrill said, “was a key indicator to me that if I can keep working, I can get there when the pressure is on.”

After over a year of coaches talking about getting into long jump, Merrill joined the category just three months before nationals.

He went on to win the event at the Paralympic trials and qualified for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

“I was in a great mind state. Tons of peace,” Merrill said. “I was in awe of the beauty of Rio and the mountains. The people were great. In the Olympic Village, athletes from almost every country in the world were there. It was a competitive environment, but still harmony with all these people and cultures coming together.”

“It was something I had never experienced before. It was bigger than any other meet I had been to.”

Merrill set the American long jump record for the first time in Rio at 6.84 meters. The mark was good for fourth place, tantalizingly close to a medal.

He now has his sights squarely set on Tokyo and the 2020 Paralympic Games.

“Every day, it’s the process of getting better at long jump and sprinting,” Merrill said. “I’m definitely shooting for the top.

I want to be the first American to get that gold medal in the long jump.” CD

Trenten Merrill jumps at the Elite Athlete Training Center in Chula Vista. Merrill was a 2016 Paralympian in long jump and looks to take gold in 2020. Photo: Courtesy Trenten Merrill Athletics

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