April 24, 2015

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

L O C A L N E W S Y O U C A N U S EApril 24-30, 2015

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 17

www.danapointtimes.com

E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 7

City to Update Inventory of Historic

StructuresEYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Water WorriesTrickle Down

California’s fi rst-ever executive order to reduce water usage state-wide by 25 percent has prompted

restrictions, changing attitudes

South Coast Water District Board of Directors President Wayne Rayfi eld shows examples of water conservation being set at SCWD headquarters, in the form of new drought-tolerant and native landscaping and the use of rain barrels for irrigation. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Sixth Annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup a SUP Success

DP SURF/PAGE 18

Dolphins Baseball Sweeps Tritons, Football Team Welcomes New Coach

SPORTS/PAGE 16

Go See Do: Things to Do in Southern California SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTINGEYE ON DP

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times April 24-30, 2015 Page 3

the site, noting a lack of ability to respond to airborne threats and vulnerability of its spent fuel pools and dry storage casks.

New San Juan Capistrano Community Engagement Panel representative Pam Pat-terson said she was “not feeling confident” about the current plans, noting that the plant could potentially vulnerable to a hijacked flight from John Wayne Airport, as well as doubting whether the plant’s security would be able to handle a terrorist assault.

Edison officials said security plans include having a number of defensive posi-tions, an experienced security staff and the ability to call on other forces, such as the Marines, as well as extensive screenings or personnel to weed out potential saboteurs.

WHAT’S NEXT: Members of the CUP—including Dana Point representatives, Mayor Carlos Olvera and Dan Stetson from the Ocean Institute—were to meet with members of the California Energy Commission to encourage the develop-ment of a state interim solution for storage for spent nuclear fuel, which is currently under control by the federal Department of Energy. A potential solution at Yucca Mtn. in Nevada is unlikely now that a pro-posed permanent repository has stalled. – Jim Shilander

Former Dana Point Resi-dent Indicted for MurderTHE LATEST: Former Dana Point resident Brian Brimager was indicted for murder in federal district court Friday.

Brimager, a former Marine, is accused of murdering Yvonne Baldelli, who he met in Dana Point in 2009 and had an ongo-ing relationship with, in November 2011, while they were serving as caretakers for a hostel in Bocas Del Toro, Panama, then dismembering her body to conceal the

act, and then sending emails and with-drawing money from Baldelli’s accounts. The couple had moved to the country in September 2011.

Baldelli’s remains were discovered in Panama in 2013, leading to Brimager’s arrest later that year.

Brimager is also accused of making false statements to FBI agents investigat-ing the case in 2012, when he claimed Baldelli had left him to live in Costa Rica around the night she went missing.

WHAT’S NEXT: The case is being tried in federal court due to the alleged murder taking place on foreign soil. The next hear-ing is scheduled for June 29 at 10 a.m.—JS

Planning Commission to Discuss Lantern District Parking, Official Renaming THE LATEST: The Dana Point Planning Commission will be conducting a public hearing on April 27 to consider a proposed amendment to the city zoning code as it relates to parking policies within the Town Center-Lantern District.

The proposed Zone Text Amendment and Local Coastal Plan Amendment ad-dress issues related to parking within the Town Center Plan area, including parking rations, in-lieu parking fees, and monitor-ing of available on- and off-street parking, along with other plan goals and policies.

The proposal would make changes, city officials say have become necessary due to the amount of time that has passed since the adoption of the TCP and issues that have come to light as real projects are being proposed for the area.

The proposal also contains a request to officially change the title of the Dana Point Town Center Plan to the Dana Point

Lantern District Plan, a measure previ-ously adopted by the City Council which will also re-name the downtown district the Lantern District.

WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting is set for Monday, April 27, at 6 p.m. in the gymna-sium at the Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street. Public comments will be welcome at the meeting. Residents may also elect to send written correspondence to the city to be included in the agenda packets distributed to commissioners.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, call Saima Qureshy, senior planner, at 949.248.3568, or visit the city website at www.danapoint.org. —AS

CUSD Board Hears Scheduling ConcernsTHE LATEST: Parents upset by academic schedules placing the start of school before Labor Day made their case to the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees Wednesday.

The 2015-2016 school year will begin Aug. 25 and was approved in 2014. In March, the board approved starting the 2016-2017 school year on Aug. 15.

District staff said the changes were made to try and bring the district closer in line to academic schedules in other areas of the county—as well as Saddleback Col-lege—and to allow for more uninterrupted instruction time. The fall semester would also finish before winter break under the proposal. Summer would be shortened the first two years of this schedule to nine weeks, with a 10-week summer restored following a “transition period.”

Many parents protested that the changes would not allow for adequate fam-ily time during the summer for students, due the area’s “June gloom” weather and July tourist season leaving August as the best time for families to vacation together. They also noted that many building in the district lacked air conditioning and August was often the hottest month in the area. Parents also said they would consider not changing vacation plans and holding their students out of school during August.

WHAT’S NEXT: The board took no action, but indicated a willingness to open up future scheduling committee meetings to the public and to communicate changes more effectively.

The board also named Aliso Viejo Middle School principal Jennifer Garett-Smalley as the new principal at San Juan Hills High School beginning next school year at its meeting Wednesday. Garrett-Smalley will replace Tom Ressler, who has served as the school’s principal for seven years and who will be retiring at the end of the school year.—JS

What’s Up With...Five things Dana Point should know this week

DPDana Point

City to Update Historical Structures InventoryTHE LATEST: The Dana Point City Council on Tuesday voted 5-0 to approve hiring a consultant to update the city’s inventory of historic resources.

Architectural Resources Group will begin chronicling the historic structures within the city that are 50 years and older and meet a minimum of two National Reg-ister of Historic Places guidelines.

The establishment of Dana Point’s histori-cal preservation program was begun in 1997.

The consultant at the time, Aegis, identi-fied 75 structures—60 residential and 15 commercial—as historical designation candidates. Two structures—the Dolph House and the Doheny House.

The city adopted a Historic Resource Ordinance in 2001, establishing a volun-tary program allowing owners of historic homes and other structures to be in-cluded on the Historic Resource Register and eligible for building code incentives and lower tax rates via the Mills Act.

Of the 40 structures on the Register, 31 have Mills Act contracts.

City staff and the council determined that due to the length of time that has passed since an inventory was made, and because the city is entering into a period of increased development, the time is right to update the list.

WHAT’S NEXT: ARG was the mid-priced bidder of three at a price of $64,500. ICF Jones & Stokes, Inc. came in at $129.099 and Historic Resource Group at $59,200.

It was determined that due to ARG’s nearly 35 years of experience and comfort in having previously worked with them on another project that they would be the recommended vendor for the job.

The project is expected to take six months to complete.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.danapoint-times.com.—Andrea Swayne

Critics Voice SONGS Security Concerns THE LATEST: Critics of Southern California Edison and the decommissioning process for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Sta-tion denounced the utility’s security plans for

As downtown construction continues the Dana Point Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on April 27 regarding the Town Center Plan parking requirements and regulations. The commission will also vote on officially changing the name Town Center officially to the Lantern District. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Page 4

EYE ON DP


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

Wednesday, April 22

DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 34000 Block (3:07 p.m.) A caller reported two subjects arguing over a plastic bag inside the Dollar Tree store.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Pacific Coast Highway, 34100 Block (12:25 p.m.) A shop owner reported an unknown person had posted a picture of a bomb exploding on the busi-ness’ website.

Tuesday, April 21

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Daniel Drive/Priscilla Drive (8:06 p.m.) A man caught another man standing in his driveway and looking into the windows of other neighboring houses. The subject was wearing baggy shorts and carrying a backpack.

DISTURBANCE Doheny Park Road, 33900 Block ( 7:01 p.m.) A shop owner called to report a 5-foot-8-inch-tall man wearing a back hoodie. The caller added that the subject had been in jail and is a “gang banger” type.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Del Prado, 24500 Block (4:19 p.m.) A caller thought it suspicious that one silver brief-case and one black briefcase were left next to a dumpster in the alleyway.

COMPILED BY MADI SWAYNE

Community Meetings

NOW THROUGH MAY 4

SCWD College Scholarship Applications Being Taken The South Coast Water District is now taking applications for its annual scholarship program for graduating high school seniors in the district’s service area. For more information, including required pre-application verification of residence within the SCWD service area, call 949.499.4555 ext. 3139, or visit www.scwd.org/scholarships.

SATURDAY, APRIL 25

Recycling Event at Dana Hills High9 a.m.-11 a.m. Residents can drop off

Monday, April 20

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Crown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (1:15 p.m.) A man was seen in the bushes at the golf course, where trespassing is not allowed. The caller believed the man to be living there.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT – NON INJURY Pacific Coast Highway, 34200 Block (10:38 p.m.) A man riding a bicycle hit a car in the West Marine parking lot and then took off in an unknown direction.

Sunday, April 19

PETTY THEFT REPORT Del Prado, 24500 Block (8:40 p.m.) The tip jar at Shwack Beach Grill was reported missing. It had been taken off the counter approximately 20 minutes before the call was placed and contained approximately $200. The restau-rant had not yet reviewed video surveil-lance footage.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATIONS Robles Drive, 33800 Block (6:27 p.m.) A woman saw a neighbor washing her car and was con-cerned because she had received a flyer from the water district stating that this was not allowed due to the drought.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino Capistrano/Doheny Park Road (6:54 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for four to five transients with bikes and chairs who had been loitering in the area. The subjects were seen using a knife or axe to hack away at a tree.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONS/CIRCUMSTANCES Pacific Coast Highway/Del Obispo Street (1:01 p.m.) McDonald’s reported several transients in the ravine behind the busi-ness. The suspects had been throwing things at cars in the drive-thru.

plastic bottles and aluminum cans in the school parking lot for students to collect and sort. Funds collected are distrib-uted by the school’s PTSA for student programs. Future events will be held May 16 and 30 and June 6. Events will be held rain or shine. For more information send an email to [email protected]. Dana Hills High School, 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point.

MONDAY, APRIL 27

Planning Commission Special Meeting6 p.m. Dana Point Community Cen-ter gym, 34052 Del Obispo Street, 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28

Ocean Water Quality Subcommittee Meeting 3 p.m.-5 p.m. Dana Point City Hall, Ste. 212, 33282 Golden Lantern, www.danapoint.org.

Dana Point Times April 24-30, 2015 Page 7

EYE ON DP


South Coast Water District Director Wayne Rayfield shows how the district is putting examples of water saving measures—rain barrels, drought-tolerant gardening, and more—to use at its headquarters in South Laguna. Photo: Andrea Swayne

California’s first-ever executive order to reduce water usage statewide by 25 percent has prompted restrictions, changing attitudes

dwindling water supply, propelled by the ongoing drought, continues to have a ripple effect on every

water district and water customer in the state, from home landscape irrigation to golf courses, schools and public spaces.

With California’s first-ever mandated 25 percent statewide water use reduction order, issued on April 1 by Governor Ed-mund G. Brown Jr., the South Coast Water District, Dana Point’s main water supplier, issued a Level 2 Water Supply Warning. Along with this warning came SCWD’s April 7 response to the Governor’s or-der—irrigation and water use restrictions.

The Governor’s executive order also requires water districts to impose increas-ingly strict regulations in their service areas, including placing restrictions on outdoor irrigation and to report monthly on water usage, compliance and enforce-ment.

What does all of this really mean for the city of Dana Point and its residents?

WATER-USE RESTRICTIONS“People should remember that we have

been hit with a double-whammy during the past year—low precipitation and high-er than usual temperatures,” said Wayne Rayfield, SCWD director and president of the board. “The combination of the two is a recipe for disaster that has resulted in a shrinking water supply coupled with an increased demand.”

Dana Point’s restrictions, in some instances are more strict than the state mandates, and include a one-day-per-week potable water irrigation schedule for ornamental landscaping—Monday for

Water Worries Trickle Down

ABY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES residents and Wednesday for homeown-

ers associations, schools, government and businesses, between the hours of 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. only—and a ban on washing vehicles as well as hosing down sidewalks, driveways, porches and patios. Vehicles must be taken to commercial car washes or detailers that recycle water. Water may only be added to swimming pools and spas—at a depth range of no more than one foot—once a month to maintain the water level. Using potable water in decora-tive water features and fountains that do not recirculate water, and allowing potable water runoff is prohibited. Also, outdoor irrigation within 48 hours of measurable precipitation is banned.

For businesses, landscaping must not be irrigated with potable water, restau-rants may only serve drinking water upon request and hotels/motels must give guests the option of not having linens and towels laundered daily.

“Changes from the state board also included reconfirmation that golf courses, where recycled water is available, must use recycled water,” Rayfield said. “Re-cycled water is OK to be used wherever, with no restrictions. Municipalities that have landscaped medians in the public right-of-way, not served by recycled water, may not water at all.”

All of Dana Point’s municipal landscap-ing is irrigated by recycled water and the newly planted areas, currently being installed in the Lantern District, are not being piped with watering systems, Ray-field said, adding that the city has chosen to use drought-tolerant plants and to irrigate only as needed using water trucks carrying recycled water.

HITTING THE TARGETThe Governor’s ordered 25 percent

targeted reduction has not been issued evenly over the entire state, instead favoring cities that have already made strides in water-use reduction with a lower percentage requirement and giving cities that overuse water higher percentages of required water savings.

“It would be unfair to impose one-size-fits-all requirements because some com-munities have been very good at conserv-ing,” Rayfield said. “For those cities, a cut of 25 percent would be harder to do, having already made cuts. But for other cities that haven’t been so good about it, they should be required to bear a bigger portion of the overall 25 percent.”

The state water board, on April 18, issued reduction requirements to some cities as low as 8 percent—for Vernon, Compton and approximately 15 other cities—and some as high as 36 percent—Beverly Hills, Glendora, Yorba Linda Water District and roughly 20 more cities. The city of Newport must reduce usage by 34 percent and the cities of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano by 28 percent. Dana Point’s number is 24 percent, along with the El Toro Water District—serv-ing Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods areas—Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Buena Park and about 30 others. However, SCWD is considering the 25 percent its targeted number.

“The state board took into account that our population of people who use water is greater than our service area—42,000 regular residential customers—because it includes an estimated three million-plus visitors per year,” Rayfield added.

WATER RATES On Monday, a state court of appeals

struck down arbitrarily tiered water rates in neighboring San Juan Capistrano, a practice shared by other California cities to encourage water savings by charging customers who use more water a higher rate per gallon than those who use less. The court’s ruling declared the practice as running contrary to Proposition 218, which prohibits water suppliers to charge rates that are higher than the actual cost of providing the service, a decision that has water suppliers across the state re-evaluating their tiered rate pricing methods or searching for alternative billing practices and ways to encourage conservation.

Rayfield believes the court ruling has the potential for a far ranging impact and puts the California judicial system in direct conflict with the executive branch.

“Water districts are on the horns of a di-lemma,” Rayfield said, “We need to make sure that current tiered rates reflect actual cost of service and balance that against the governor’s requirement that we use tiered rates as part of our conservation efforts.”

Both Rayfield and SCWD General Manager Andrew Brunhart agree that everyone in the water business will need

to figure out what the court decision means to them, individually, but rates in Dana Point are currently set through fiscal year 2016.

“We are going to be conducting a rate study, in response to the court decision,” Brunhart said. “The Board of Directors has continued the rates in effect this fiscal year, so come July our rates will remain the same for the next year.”

Brunhart added that having pricing set through FY 2016 gives the water district time to comprehensively study future water rates while observing what happens in the water industry and other water dis-tricts with regard to the court decision.

It will have very little effect on SCWD customers in the short term, he said, with the exception of the very small group of customers in Dana Point—near the SJC border east of Del Obispo—that receive their water from San Juan Capistrano.

(There is also a small group of Dana Point homes—Dana Woods—served by the Moulton Niguel Water District.)

ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIESThe new restrictions bring no changes

to enforcement but the current ordinance does include the district’s ability to impose some penalties.

“Our approach so far is to try to edu-cate people,” Rayfield said. “Staff is on the lookout for people who are overwatering. We can impose fines, but are reserving that for the habitual offenders who don’t seem to care about the community and their neighbors.”

As the SCWD implements incentives to implore customers to comply with the restrictions, the district is essentially “put-ting an abundance of faith in the public,” he said. “We choose to believe that most will voluntarily do the right thing.”

A first offense could result in a fine up to $275 dollars and can be doubled for repeat offenders.

Brunhart added that, for those who are uncomfortable with talking to a neigh-bor, the water district customer service department will gladly follow up on reported overuse and can be reached at 949.499.4555.

Customers should also visit the SCWD website at www.scwd.org to find out about water saving rebates-- not just for lawn re-moval, but also for low-flow toilets, shower heads, smart irrigation systems, and more—and the Water Saver of the Month Award—a $500 prize for water conserving landscaping projects that don’t otherwise qualify for rebates.

“We are really depending on peer pres-sure,” Rayfield said. “Everyone should feel free to remind their neighbors to con-serve, because if they don’t it’s going to impact the whole community in a negative way. We’re all in this together.”

Stay tuned to the Dana Point Times next week, for part two of this story, with updates on specific problem solving initiatives and progress being made by the water district, the city and the citizens of Dana Point. DP

Page 8

EYE ON DP


NEWS BITESCOMPILED BY ANDREA SWAYNE

An Eco Heroes Excursion

In celebration of Earth Day, the Eco-Adventure Center at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel joined with Capistrano Unified School District for a Fifth Grade Eco Hero Essay Contest. Scholars were invited to submit a 300- to 500-word es-say, a piece of art or public service an-nouncement on “what it means to be an Eco Hero.” Sixteen entries were selected out of 217 and the winning students were honored with a whale watching excursion aboard Dana Wharf’s OCean Adventures catamaran on Saturday, April 18. “Our teachers play a vital role in educat-

ing how everything in nature is connected and explaining the ripple effect once this delicate balance is disturbed,” Lyn Evins, director of resort experiences said. “Through this competition we hope to encourage scholars to better understand those connections and to inspire them to make a difference in their surrounding environment.”

The winning students will also be recog-

nized by the CUSD Board of Trustees and Superintendent Kirsten Vital as “extra-milers” who have excelled in a way that benefits the district and the community.

Ninth Annual Grand Prix of Cycling Set for May 3The ninth annual Dana Point Grand

Prix of Cycling returns to the streets of downtown bringing top national and international men’s and women’s criterium racing—featuring the John Johnson Pro NCC Classic—amateur and kids’ races.

The event also includes the Cycle de Mayo Street Festival, featuring music, food and craft beer for purchase. Proceeds benefit charity. Admission to the festival and race viewing areas are free.

Kids’ events start at noon and all par-ticipants get a T-shirt, a goody bag and a race medal. Entry into the kids’ events—separated by age groups 4 and under, ages 5-6, 7-8 and 9-12—is free but registration is required.

For more information or to register, visit www.danapointgrandprix.com.

Also, find the DPGP on Twitter (DPGP), Facebook and Instagram (DanaPoint-GrandPrix).

The ninth annual Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling will bring world-class professional, amateur and kids’ bicycle racing to the city’s downtown streets on Sunday, May 3. Shown here is a scene from last year’s event. Photo: Andrea Swayne

CUSD students who were winners in The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel’s Eco Heroes Essay Contest were treated to a whale watching adventure with Dana Wharf Whale Watching on April 18. The excursion group included (Back row L to R) Andy Jun, Director of Resort Experiences Lyn Evins, Lucas DeMarco, Samantha Shaw, Diana Bonilla, CUSD teacher Elisa Slee, Freya Wilby, naturalist Leslie Hart, Riley Lenthall, naturalist Nick Ibert, Antonio Del Castillo and Ethan Johnson, (Front row L to R) naturalist B.B. Villanueva, Dani Silver and Edgar Arteaga. Not pictured: Cressida Michaloski, Bryn Kurt, Danielle King, Ashley Caswell, Kayden George and Dylan Choi. Photo: Courtesy

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTSSOAPBOX

Dana Point Times April 24–30, 2015 Page 10 www.danapointtimes.com

DPDana Point

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

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

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.danapointtimes.com

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Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 [email protected]

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Dana Point Times, Vol. 8, Issue 17. The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodis-patch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SPECIAL THANKSRobert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

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GUEST OPINION: Straight Talk by Al Jacobs

STRAIGHT TALK By Al Jacobs

f education interests you, and you regularly read articles on the subject, you’ll fi nd it tough not to know about

America’s “failing schools.” New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo calls on his state legislature to do something about the children condemned to their 178 such schools; even before Congress approved new rules, states had an incentive to lower their defi nition of “profi cient” in order to reduce the number of schools facing sanc-tions; the Illinois Policy Institute reports that 95 percent of juniors in Chicago’s lowest-performing high schools cannot meet state standards in math and read-ing. The implication: The nation’s public

BACKYARD CHICKENS ACTUALLY REDUCE RISK OF SALMONELLA

FRANCI SASSIN, Capistrano Beach

I have been following the debate about backyard chickens closely and am disap-pointed that both the Planning Commission and the City Council voted to continue the ban on keeping hens in Dana Point.

As a veterinarian, I have worked with many families over the years that keep chickens and can attest to the fact that they are considered part of the family in the same way as other types of pets. In addition, their eggs can provide a valuable source of safe and nutritious food, and keeping chickens can also contribute to ecologically sound practices in organic gardening and local food sourcing.

Specifi cally in response to the argument that backyard chickens post health risks due to the transmission of salmonella and other pathogens, it is important to differentiate between commercially raised, often “factory farmed” chickens and small backyard fl ocks. The presence of salmo-nella bacteria is certainly a concern in our food system, but the most likely place to fi nd it is in the kitchen, and in fact, most cases in humans have come from fertilizers used on vegetables. For more facts, see Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists of all reported salmonella outbreaks at www.cdc.gov/salmonella/outbreaks.html. One reason cited by many backyard chicken owners

The Failing School

Letters tothe Editor

education system is in shambles.Let me spread a little light on this sub-

ject. Education in the United States is not as grim as reported. The focus on the failing school distorts the picture. By defi nition, a school is “failing” if it’s in the bottom 5%

of schools across the state based on combined English Language Arts and math scores. By mathematical necessity, fi ve percent of the schools in every state must be designated as failing, and this is so regardless of the quality of teaching, the condition of the campus

or a positive attitude of the students. If a school falls into this category because a large portion of the student body is not profi cient in English, or perhaps not inher-ently scholastic by nature, or that many must work to help support their family, it will remain a failing school.

Despite the stigma assigned to a failing

school, there’s no reason why highly-motivated pupils cannot do well in such a setting. Provided no actual hostility to education exists, a relatively bright and attentive student can both master the required subjects and maintain a high aca-demic standing in the class. The fact that a school may be designated as “failing” need not rub off on those who attend.

A fi nal though: If the media would con-centrate on the 95 percent of schools which are not failing, we’d discover that there are many fi ne institutions, a huge pool of dedi-cated instructors and a nation brimming with educated youngsters.

Al Jacobs, a longtime Dana Point resi-dent and professional investor of nearly 50 years, distributes a monthly newsletter in which he shares fi nancial knowledge and experience. www.roadtoprosperity.net. DP

I

Go See Do illustrations by Freepik.com

for keeping their own chickens is actu-ally to reduce the risk of salmonella from chicken and egg products.

Proper hygiene and food handling tech-niques are the way to keep families safe from animal-born disease, not banning certain types of pets. In fact, in our sub-urban community, the risk of diseases of any kind passed from animals to humans is extremely low, and backyard chickens would not pose any additional signifi cant threat.

The veterinary community and/or your own veterinarian are great places to seek out additional information. Veterinarians can help everyone enjoy the tremendous benefi ts of all types of human-animal bonds while still keeping both humans and animals safe and healthy.

THANKS TO CITY FOR UPHOLDING LONG-STANDING CHICKEN BAN

ANN WORTHINGTON, Capistrano Beach

I understand the disappointment expressed recently by residents who wanted Dana Point to become a haven for backyard hens, but I hope they will in turn understand that the City Council’s deci-sion was in fact the most reasonable and rational option.

It was not about one person wanting to keep chickens and another not wanting them. The issue is much bigger than that.

The city of Dana Point approved an ordinance in 1990 that declared poultry to be a public nuisance. The companion zon-ing ordinance that prohibits the keeping of poultry in residential areas was passed in 1994.

It’s unfortunate that some residents either were not aware of the city’s laws against keeping chickens or maybe simply

decided to ignore the rules, but I believe it requires compelling evidence to overturn these longstanding laws.

I commend our City Council for their thoughtful consideration of the issue, and I believe they reached the right decision for all Dana Point residents. As much as I sympathize with an 80-year-old woman who wants some joy from keeping hens in her backyard, opening the doors of the city to residential poultry is not the answer.

CITY COUNCILMEN ARE THE CHICKENS WHO SHOULD BE BANNED

DICK RUDOLPH, Dana Point

I read with interest the letter from Nan-cy Rohr about her neighbor’s chickens.

In past weeks, the dustup over them presented in the Dana Point Times painted a very different picture of annoyance and disturbance. Perhaps those representing the city and the complainants have a “ban it because it’s too hard to understand it” mentality.

The City Council’s position on the chick-ens is certainly in line with its controlling attitude. And the persons complaining about the chickens just gave more justifi ca-tion for the continuance of that attitude and a reason for fast action to punish an out-of-control and annoying 81-year-old miscreant.

I too support the banning of chickens, just not the avian variety. I want the chick-ens sitting on the city council banned to a more appropriate locale. I think retirement would be a good start.

Cover photos by Allison Jarrell and Alex Paris

Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California awaits Santa Catalina Island, a treasure trove of aquatic activi-ties and entertainment—from parasailing and kayaking, to scuba diving and snorkeling. The island, home to more than 50 species of plants and animals that live nowhere else in the world, greets visitors with miles of stunning scenery, from views of the iconic Catalina Casino to the luminous orange garibaldi swimming beneath crystal clear waters. Whether you’re able to spend a weekend or just a day on Catalina Island, expect to be treated to a slice of island life.

BY ALLISON JARRELL AND ALEX PARIS

Catalina Island

People line up early to dine at Eric’s on the Pier, a popular food stand offering an array of classic American dishes, including the beloved buffalo burger. Photo: Alex Paris

Lloyd’s of Avalon Confectionary has been making its homemade salt water taffy and confections in the storefront on Crescent Avenue since 1934. The shop also has an impressive assortment of retro candy, and 50 cent coffee to complement your sugar rush. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Tourists and palm trees bask in the sun along Middle Beach, next to the Green Pleasure Pier. Photo: Alex Paris

The Lobster Trap, a favorite seafood eatery and bar among locals, offers a fun, casual atmosphere and a variety dishes including fresh, local lobster. Photo: Allison Jarrell

HOW TO GET THERE• Catalina Express from Dana Point, Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon or Two Harbors. www.catalinaexpress.com• Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach to Avalon. www.catalinainfo.com• Island Express Helicopter from Long Beach, San Pedro or Santa Ana. www.islandexpress.com Daniel Robles, 30, and Anton Dimas, 26, of Paramount, enjoy kayaking off of

Descanso Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Drake Anderson, 8, of Playa del Rey, gets his snorkel gear on during a fun-filled morning on Avalon’s South Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell

The Wrigley Memorial, nestled within the island’s botanic garden, honors the memory of William Wrigley Jr., who played an instrumental role in the history of the island. Visitors can access the popular Garden to Sky Trail hike through the botanic garden. Photo: Alex Paris

The Catalina Island Brew House—a brew pub, café and bakery—sits along the bustling waterfront pedestrian mall of Crescent Avenue. Shaded patio seating, happy hour and fresh pastries make the brew house an ideal place to kick back and relax. Photo: Alex Paris

A Day on

South Orange County has a bewildering number of trails, many of which offer spectacular views of scenic beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Read on for a sampling of trails that represent a variety of settings and difficulties. Be sure to check city websites for trail closure information and maps beforehand.

Dana Point HeadlandsDifficulty: EasyLength: 1 mile round tripLocation: Scenic Drive and Dana Strand Road

This bluff top trail is a great place to get a quick fix of romance, inspiration or introspection. The trail’s surface is made of soft sand, which lends to the relaxing at-mosphere cultivated by native wildlife and birdcalls that envelope the path. Though short and centrally located, descending into this nature reserve brings an almost immediate sense of remoteness. The sweeping panorama and grandeur of the ocean against the coastline as it fades into the distance is breathtaking. The trail of-fers unobstructed views of the sunset and Catalina Island, but it’s important to note that the gates are locked promptly after sunset. No bikes or pets are allowed. Free parking is located at both ends of the trail and the Nature Interpretive Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Las Ramblas TrailheadDifficulty: ModerateLength: 3.5 mile round tripLocation: Camino Las Ramblas

This is a great place to quickly elevate yourself above the hectic traffic of Inter-state 5 or busy city life and clear your mind. It offers 360-degree views of the area—from the Santa Ana mountain range, to San Juan Capistrano, to Dana Point Harbor and beyond. Those views take a mild amount of exercise to ascend to—and without restrooms, shade or water—some preparation is recommended. The double-track trail is hard-packed and smooth, forming a 3.5-mile loop back to beginning, but there’s a vast web of single track trails that offer more challenging routes often favored by mountain bikers.

San Clemente SummitDifficulty: ModerateLength: 3 miles round trip Location: Avenida Talega

Also known as “the highest point in San Clemente,” the Summit is a point along the northern Cristianitos Trail. At 1,008 feet above sea level, the summit rewards hikers with a view of rolling hills, native California wildlife and the Pacific. Since last year, a marker and bench have been added to the point. The Cristianitos Trail is open to hikers, bikers and horses, and can be accessed from a parking lot at the terminus of Avenida Talega.

A south Orange County hike for one and all

Going off the Grid

BY ALEX PARIS

San Clemente Beach TrailDifficulty: EasyLength: 2.3 miles to 4.6 mile round tripLocation: Between North Beach and Calafia Beach

The smell of salty air, the feel of a cool breeze and the occasional toot of a train horn are characteristic of this idyllic SoCal setting that balances nature and civilization. The trail is great for anything from romantic sunset walks to energetic family outings. The well-manicured path is smooth, wide and flat enough to accom-modate all—from a slow gait to a hasty dog-walker or brisk cyclist. The trail parallels the Amtrak line and the beach as it makes its way past scenic cliffs, the bustling San Clemente Pier and surfing hotspots. There are many access points, including large metered parking lots with bathrooms and refreshments at its middle and both ends. The trail tends to be busy during the summer and weekends, and is cool and quiet in the early morning.

$ Jon’s Fish MarketFrills are nonexistent at Jon’s. Fish is the focus. Whether it be grilled, battered and fried or smoked in house, Jon’s Fish Market dishes its fresh fi sh offerings up on plastic plates. A steady stream of patrons carry cafeteria-style trays, tower-ing with piping hot fi sh and chip combos, to picnic tables at the edge of Dana Point’s harbor where guests perk up with each crackle of the speaker waiting for their name to be called—order’s up. 34665 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.2807, www.jonsfi shmarket.com.

around four-course, feast-style dinners. On the other, small plates and happy hours see out-of-towners and just-off-of-workers enjoying the San Clemente staple’s unfussy style. No matter the side patrons choose, the fi sh is fresh and responsibly sourced. Another thing is certain: views from this pier-top eatery are striking wherever the seat. 611 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.6390, www.thefi shermansrestaurant.com.

$$$ Waterman’s HarborNamed for those who make their living, or mark, on the water, this dockside dining destination is all seafood, all the time. Fresh always, local when possible means offerings can change daily. Oysters from Baja California, Hawaiian ahi tuna and lo-cally-caught halibut accompany the crowd favorite, crab beignets—an airy, crab fritter—on this fi sh-forward menu. Live music and uninterrupted waterway views go hand-in-hand each night at Water-man’s. 34661 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.764.3474, www.watermandp.com.

Waterman’s Harbor. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

Courtesy photo

Photo: Allison Jarrell

Photo: Alex Paris

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

Seafood for Every Budget

$$ The Fisherman’s Restaurant & BarFisherman’s tells a tale of two restaurants. On one side of the pier families gather

$$$$ RayaRaya is synonymous with refi nement. Its every detail, from service to spice, are fi ne-tuned. Locally-raised meats, sustainably-sourced fi sh and farmers’ market produce are showcased with the vibrant Latin fl avors of renowned Chef Richard Sandoval on an ever-developing, East-meets-West menu. A twist to tradi-tional Japanese dishes sees miso udon fi nished with poblano and sashimi served Mexican aguachile style. 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com/lagunaraya.

Artifex Brewing Company919 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente949.429.7805, www.artifexbrewing.com

Despite being open for just seven months, Artifex Brewing Company’s demand has already exceeded its supply. Seasonal and staple beers alike pour from taps across Orange and San Diego counties—the latter, home to three of the brewery’s four owners. A crowd favorite: The No Name IPA—a West Coast-style Indian Pale Ale—that Artifex has brewed since day one. “We are actually at the point now where we can’t make enough beer

MRK Public1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente949.441.7621, www.mrkpublic.com

Knickknacks, T-shirts and photographs are what many of us have to show for our travels. Flavor: That’s what Moriah Ro-bison, Rayne Frey and Kai Robison—the brains, and names, behind MRK Public—have delivered their home town, San Cle-mente. Clean, fresh tastes from their trips to Vietnam and Thailand are the pinnacle of this eatery’s short menu. Brined for 24 hours, before being parbaked and fl ash-fried to order, MRK’s Vietnamese sticky

Baseball fans can forget about fi ghting rush hour, and ballpark traffi c. When the Angels are home on weekdays, game-goers can leave the stress of commuting behind by catching the Angels Express. Metrolink trains bound for the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, adjacent to Angel Stadium, run from the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo station for weekday home games starting at 7:05 p.m. South-bound trains depart 30 minutes after the fi nal out with trains leaving Anaheim no later than 11:30 p.m. The train’s full schedule can be found at www.octa.net/angelsex-press. Round-trip tickets cost $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and disabled riders and $4 for riders under 18. Children under 5 ride free with the purchase of an adult fare.

wings are a tender, messy, savory twist to this quintessential bar food. “This dish is sweet, salty, sour and spicy. It sort of has it all,” said Moriah. “It isn’t going to be for everybody but if you are open to its fl avors then you are going to love it.” Talk about having it all. The wings are topped with fl ash-fried garlic—a Thai-inspired element that adds a surprisingly sweet crunch. It is just one of the many tastes of their culi-nary travels these brothers and longtime friends are sharing with guests. “We are having the best response we could have hoped for,” Kai said of the restaurant’s fi rst six months of business. “People are excited about having something differ-ent.”—Andrea Papagianis

Dining Snapshots

Afternoon Tea VietnameseSticky Wings

Photo: Andrea PapagianisPhoto: Andrea Papagianis

Courtesy photo

All Aboard the Angels Express

to keep up,” said partner Johnny Johur, who earned his brewing stripes at Pizza Port. For Artifex, a San Clemente-based brewing opera-tion that meticulously utilizes every inch of its current space for both production and tasting, expansion plans are in the works. Artifex will soon take over an adjacent suite to increase its production. In its fi rst calendar year, Artifex is on target to produce about 1,000 barrels—or 2,000 kegs—of its ever-changing brews. On tap now are the English Brown Ale, American Tea, and Hibisc-This, a hibiscus and orange peel cream ale. Much like the brewery’s shifting tasting room drafts, Artifex hosts a rotation of food trucks—because every cold beer deserves an equally good bite.—Andrea Papagianis

Start: Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station Departure Time: 5:50 p.m.Finish: Anaheim—Angels Stadium Arrival Time: 6:20 p.m.Stops: Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana and Orange

ANGELS EXPRESS

Huntington Beach Downtown Art WalkEach third Thursday of the month, es-tablished and emerging artists showcase their work throughout sites and business-es in Huntington Beach’s downtown dis-trict—Main Street north of Pacific Coast Highway. View visual and performing arts, meet local talent and enjoy live music, food and more once a month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. www.hbdowntown.com. 1

Balboa Island Artwalk The 21st installation of this Balboa Island summer kick-off event features more than 100 artists exhibiting paintings, jewelry, glassworks, sculpture and photography, among other mediums. Musicians will perform throughout the day along the 1-mile-long event located on South Bay-front Promenade. This year’s event will be held Sunday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.balboaislandartwalk.info. 2

First Thursdays Art WalkArt is in season all year round at this educational event celebrating Laguna Beach’s diverse arts and culture commu-nity. The walk, held the first Thursday of

each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., features a free trolley service between galleries lo-cated in north, central and south Laguna. An art walk guide attends each trolley. www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com. 3

North Beach Art Walk Rain or shine, this art walk through San Clemente’s eclectic North Beach celebrates the small city’s creative rhythm. Explore North Beach’s galleries and surf shops the second Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Walks begin at Artwistic Cre-ations, 1237 N. El Camino Real, and end at Knuckleheads Sports Bar. www.facebook.com/northbeachartwalk. 4

Village Art Faire For over a decade San Clemente’s monthly art faire has put Southern California artists and craftspeople in direct contact with the local community. Handcrafted goods, ceramics, photography and glass, metal and wood-works are displayed, and sold, the first Sunday of each month along the city’s downtown passage—Avenida Del Mar—from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.villagesanclemente.org. 5

* All events are free to the public.

Walk-able

Art

Discover regional artistry at Orange County’s coastal art walks

Longer days and warmer weather call for meals to be had outdoors. With a plethora of beach and hillside parks with unob-structed views of the Pacific and sprawling desert landscapes, there are plenty of views to choose from. So whether you’re looking for a romantic, sunset dinner or a quick lunch for a day at the beach, these local markets serve up sandwiches, salads, sushi and more for every dine on the go occasion.

Make it a Beach DaySnag a sandwich, smoothie or juice from Hanson’s Market and head to North Beach. Bask in the sun or hit the San Clemente Beach Trail and head south toward the Pier. Whatever the activity, Hanson’s has the perfect grab-and-go din-ing option. Whenever possible, Hanson’s utilizes organic fruits and vegetables—ensuring their juices, like the Sweet Life, and smoothies, with names honoring the market’s San Clemente roots, are truly natural and fresh. Sandwiches too are created with the brightest of ingredients. For a spiced up bite, try the Spicy Riviera where it’s all about the jalapeños. 415 E. Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.218.1690, www.hansonsmarket.com.

Saddle Up, Take a HikeFor breakfast, lunch, dinner and every snacking in between Marbella Farmers Market has you covered. Hitting the trail by horse, bike or foot? Shop Marbella’s deli counter or craft your own salad. The market is large and the dining options are extensive. Looking for a leisurely walk or ride with a beach picnic as a stop? Load up on a cheese platter, sushi rolls and freshly-baked sweets before heading to Descanso Park where you can catch the San Juan Creek Trail to Doheny State Beach. Or, if you want more of a challenge, head east on Highway 74 to climb Cleveland Na-tional Forest’s Sitton Peak. 31109 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite A, San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.1067.

Catch the Setting SunLong before the city of Dana Point took his name, Richard Henry Dana Jr. described the Headlands as the “only romantic spot on the coast.” Don’t just take his word for it. Experience it. Stop off at Monarch Beach Market to shop wraps, sandwiches, salads, juices, coffees and more before cozying up at one of the city’s bluff-top parks—like Pines or Strand Vista. Grab a slip and cre-ate your own, order online or snatch a pre-pared bite from the cold case and skip the deli-counter wait altogether. 24040 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point, 949.429.8750, www.monarchbeachmarket.com.

Clockwise from top: Lunch at North Beach. Photo: Andrea Papagianis Monarch Beach Market. Photo: Alex Paris Marbella Farmers Market. Photo: Alex Paris

Grab your meal and go, see, do

Take it to Go

It’s a fact: Childhood goes quickly. This summer, revel in the wonder that is growing up. The days of dress-up, superhero lunch boxes and imagination without limit will be gone soon enough. So, embrace fun, educational opportunities by explor-ing Orange County with these 10 things every kid must do.

Pretend City Children’s MuseumThe brilliance behind this mini city is that (almost) nothing is off limits. Youngsters learn through play as

they leap into action as a firefighter, sort and deliver mail, earn a paycheck from the construction site and interact with different members of the community. And to encour-age discovering diversity outside the museum, guests are introduced to a new family every quarter in the “Our Home” exhibit—be it a single-parent, same-sex or first-generation, immigrant family. “It is a really great message,” said Leslie Perovich, Pretend City’s senior director of advancement. “Even though they don’t look like your family, they are still a family.” This summer Pretend City welcomes Heart and Seoul: Growing Up Korean—an immersive, hands-on exhibit highlighting Korean culture, one of the largest and most rapidly growing populations in Orange County. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900, www.pretendcity.org.

Pacific Marine Mammal CenterRescue, rehabilitate, release and research. Add educate, inspire and a few sea lions to that list, and the center

comes to life. Each day, PMMC staffers rescue seals and sea li-ons from California’s shores—many dehydrated and in desper-ate need of nourishment. Seven days a week, visitors—some 45,000 each year—can see firsthand the care these marine mammals receive before they are released back into the wild. “They are our future,” said Mary Beth Steen, the center’s director of development, of young visitors. “You never know when you have a future marine biologist visiting, like our executive director, who believes in educating everyone about the importance of taking care of our ocean.” Educational pro-grams with a focus on environmental stewardship are avail-able year round for children of all ages. 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3050, www.pacificmmc.org.

Segerstrom Center for the ArtsYouth enrichment through the arts is at the core of Segerstrom’s mission. Live performances and free pro-

grams introduce the youngest of audiences to the magic and wonder of live theater, film, music and dance. “We hope … that as each show entertains and delights young people, they create happy and memorable shared family experiences and encourage an interest in learning more about the performing arts,” said Terrence Dwyer, SCFTA president. With the ad-dition of a sensory-friendly series, Segerstrom has embraced safeguards to ensure adults and children with autism or sensory sensitivities experience live performance without barriers. The center’s sensory-friendly series opens Sunday, Oct. 25 with “Room on the Broom.” And SCFTA’s popular summer series, Movie Mondays—a five-week, free pro-gram—begins July 13 with Little Shop of Horrors. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.

Explore art and cultural ideas at the Orange

County Museum of Art. This summer, view artists’ work from the pioneering feminist movement Riot Grrrl and emerging artists living and working in China. Museum admission is free on Fridays. 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach, 949.759.1122, www.ocma.net.

Experience a rocket launch at Discovery Cube.

Then, dig for prehistoric bones, experience historic earthquakes and explore more than 100 hands-on exhibits. Visit before May 10 and embark on an adventure by land, air and sea with LEGO. 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

Race in the Ocean Festival’s annual Dolphin Dash.

Celebrate the local ecosystem at this action-packed event with races, and activities, on land and sea. Build a sandcastle, enter the fishing derby and cheer on lifeguard game contestants. The San Clemente Ocean Festival will be held on July 18 and 19. www.oceanfestival.org.

Watch art come to life at the Pageant of the Masters.

Explore ancient and modern sources of happi-ness during these 90-minute theatrical, living pictures or re-creations of artwork. Pageant runs each night at 8:30 p.m. from July 8 to Aug. 31. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.1145, www.foapom.com.

Relive California’s maritime history at the

Ocean Institute. Set sail aboard on the Spirit of Dana Point and live life as a 19th century sailor by moving cargo on the Brig Pilgrim. Then, study area sea life at wet tables and interactive exhibits. 24000 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Things Every South OC

Kid Must Do

OC Fair & Event CenterNothing says summer quite like a trip to the fair. Concerts, food trucks and rides

are quintessential warm-weather accompani-ments—and the OC Fair serves it all up in droves. At Imaginology—Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead—guests can learn and discover with their hands by creating art, playing with science toys, petting zoo animals and more. The three-day, no-cost festival starts Friday, April 24. May sees the OC Marathon, Gem Faire, Scottish Fest USA, motorcycle racing and OC Night Market—a three-night event with more than 200 vendors. Special events and concerts continue throughout the sum-mer. The fairgrounds also play host to the Orange County Market Place every Saturday and Sunday; a farmers market on Thursdays and Food Truck Fare days, which bring gourmet from-a-truck cuisine on Wednesdays and Thursdays. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

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10 Feed a goat a carrot at ZOOMARS Petting Zoo.

Also, while you’re there, pan for gold, gemstones and fossils like California’s early settlers, hop aboard the mini train for a spin and meet llamas, rabbits, emus and visit the goat pen for a hug. 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.831.6550, www.zoomars.com.

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

ZOOMARS Petting Zoo

Pretend City Children’s Museum

OC Fair & Event Center

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNERGETTING OUT

Dana Point Times April 24-30, 2015 Page 11 www.danapointtimes.com

DPDana Point

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.danapointtimes.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to [email protected]

Friday | 24ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE5:30 p.m-7 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf luxury catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor. Tickets are $49. Every Friday and Sunday. See more events online. Wharf Sportfish-ing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603, www.danawharf.com.

AIDA7 p.m. South Orange County School of the Arts theater students present the TONY Award-winning musical “Aida,” an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal. The story chronicles the love triangle between Aida (Kyla Stone) a Nubian princess stolen from her country, Egyptian Princess Amneris (Ashley Patrick) and Radames (Andrew Fajardo), the soldier they both love. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. Available online or at the door, as available. Show also runs Saturday, April 25 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dana Hills High School, Porthole Theater, 33333 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.

Saturday | 25DOHENY WOOD8 a.m.-3 p.m. See more than 100 classic woodie wagons on display along the sand in the parking area south of Doheny State Beach Campground. The annual all-woodie car show is hosted by the SoCal Woodie Club and also includes food, T-shirts, posters, art, a raffle, awards and more. The event is free but park admission is $15 per car, $14 for seniors. Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, www.socalwoodies.com.

EARTH DAY AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE10 a.m.-3 p.m. Earth Day activities include exploring marine wildlife, creating eco-friendly crafts and other hands-on activities. Cost is $6.50 for adults or $4.50 for children (ages 3-12). Participate in the beach and harbor cleanup from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. that day and receive free admission. Check in at the front desk of the institute prior to cleanup time; supplies will be available. No registration is required, but groups of 10 or more should contact Katie Markisz at 949.496.2274 ext. 367 or [email protected]. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

The ListWhat’s going on in and around town this week

delight jazz enthusiasts with their innova-tive style that pushes the boundaries of jazz while rooted in its tradition. Tickets are $10 general admission or $7 for students/se-niors. McKinney Theatre, 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

Wednesday | 29DOWNTOWN SJC FARMERS MARKET3 p.m.-7 p.m. Fresh flowers, produce and specialty foods from around 40 vendors in downtown San Juan Capistrano, on the cor-ner of Camino Capistrano and Yorba Street. Occurs every Wednesday. www.farmersmarketsjc.com.

Thursday | 30SINGLES 50+ MEET AND GREET5 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Singles over 50 are invited to attend this free event held the last Thurs-day of each month. Carl the DJ will be spin-ning the tunes. Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste. 116, Dana Point, 949.248.9008, www.tutorandspunkys.com.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MAY 2PINK GALA AT DOHENY HOUSE6 p.m. The owners of the historic Doheny House will unveil their home’s complete, period-correct restoration at this fundraiser to benefit cancer patients at Orange Coast Memorial Hospital, Dr. Mark Kobayashi’s Hands of Hope International, and other programs of Kristine Taylor Philanthropies. The evening will feature special guests, live music, dancing, fine dining, a fashion show, silent auction, a live art auction and the opportunity to have a look inside one of the area’s most beautiful and historic homes. Tickets are $250 and can be purchased online. All proceeds support the cause. Doheny House, 335101 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Beach, 949.387.8711, www.kristinetaylorphilanthropies.org.

COMPILED BY STAFF

ART ALONG THE COAST10 a.m.-6 p.m. and on April 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Twelve fine artists showcase their craft in their homes and studios along the coast, between San Clemente and Laguna Beach. Preview and have a chance to purchase new works not yet seen by the public. For more information, including a map to all the locations, visit www.artalongthecoast.com.

PAWS IN THE GARDEN10 a.m.-3 p.m. Paws in the Garden is the annual fundraiser for The Ark of San Juan Companion Animal Rescue. Take a stroll in beautiful gardens to help save the com-munity’s lost and abandoned pets. Tickets are $25 and may be reserved by mail or online. For more information, visit www.arkofsanjuan.org or call 949.388.0034.

Sunday | 26BEACH CHURCH8 a.m. Visit Christ Lutheran’s Beach Church on the sand in San Clemente North Beach near the Metrolink station. Worship and fellowship for all ages—with the ocean, dolphins and an occasional train as a backdrop. Call 949.496.2621 or visit www.clcsanclemente.org for more information.

Monday | 27 PJ STORYTIME WITH THE SUNSHINE READERs 7 p.m-8 p.m. Reading event for children off all ages, pajamas wearing encouraged but not required at the Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

Tuesday | 28SADDLEBACK JAZZ CONCERT FEAT. SAXOPHONIST JOHN O’GALLAGHER7:30 p.m. The John O’Gallagher Trio will

At the Coach House: Tony Calabrese

an Diego comedian Tony Cal-abrese, known as the Italian Godfa-ther of Comedy, is returning to the

Coach House on Wednesday, May 6. Calabrese, a two-time bank president

turned comedian, describes his humor as largely self-deprecating—true life observations of a middle-aged, married fat guy with three grandchildren. His comedic style is in the vein of perform-ers like Rodney Dangerfield—utilizing animated facial expressions.

Calabrese has performed on stage over 3,000 times, with more than 20 shows at the Coach House. He per-forms regularly at The Comedy Store, The Comedy Palace, The Madhouse Comedy Club and other venues.

“Getting laughs from strangers is an art form; it takes a long time to perfect,” Calabrese said. “There aren’t any short-cuts, you just have to practice.”

Local comedian Jim Taylor is produc-ing and performing in the show as well. Taylor has had his own show at the Irvine Improv for the last three years, with shows off and on at the Coach House.

Taylor was voted the guy with the deepest voice in high school, but he said it wasn’t until later in life that he embraced his natural comedic style.

“When you find your voice, you realize what you’re really passionate about,” Taylor said. “You’re not just a talking head, and the audience con-nects with you.”

Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5. Taylor said the show will be PG-13 to R-light humor—risqué not raunchy.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistra-no. For tickets or more information call 949.496.8930 or go to www.thecoach-house.com. DP

SBY ALLISON JARRELL

Photo: Courtesy

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, MAY 2: RUSTY LONG BOOK SIGNING 1 p.m.-5 p.m. San Clemente-based professional big wave surfer Rusty Long will debut his first book, The Finest Line: The Global Pursuit of Big Wave Surfing. The book features the top surfers who have led the charge in the sport, as well as the underground heroes and legends of each region, with images by about 20 photographers and 100 surfers. Books will be available for purchase and sign-ing. Interval Gallery, 412 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.4879, www.interval.surf.

EDITOR’S PICK

Rusty Long. Photo: Andrea Swayne


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

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITYDP LIVINGDP

Dana Point

Annual carnival brings fun and games for all agesPlay Time at Palisades

alisades Elementary School’s annual PTA Carnival brought family fun to Capistrano Beach on April 17 while

raising funds for field trips and other activities.

The event included games, bounce houses, cake walks, a silent auction and the Pooper Bowl—a field is divided into a grid, participants buy squares and then when a farm animal does its business in a square, the owner of that square wins $250. This year the “poopers” were a pig and a goat. A color run—laps through a sprinkler followed by a dousing with col-ored tempera and corn starch—made for some rambunctious and messy fun. DP

P

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50: by Tom Blake

Finding Love in California, Making a Life in AustriaM

y life partner Greta and I are living for a month in a 500-year-old build-ing in Graz, Austria. The apart-

ment where we are staying is owned by the Schachners, a couple who met at the DMV in Fresno. Christian is Austrian. His wife, Jai, is an American citizen who was born on the Laos/Thailand border. While not my typical “after 50” tale, I wanted to share their story that shows how love can overcome distance.

In 2008, Jai was living in Fresno. Her purse had been stolen so she was at the DMV to get a replacement driver’s license. Christian, who purchases antique Ameri-can cars and sells them in Austria, was in Fresno registering an old Cadillac. He and Jai were in line next to each other. They had just enough time to tell each other a little about their backgrounds.

He asked for her phone number and they started dating. Soon, however, he had to re-turn to Austria. The odds of this 6,100-mile long-distance relationship working were against them.

They corresponded. Christian returned to Fresno a few times for more cars and to see Jai. He wanted her to visit Austria. Since arriving in the United States as a young child, she had never been out of the coun-try. She didn’t even own a passport.

Due to paperwork issues, getting a passport took her months. Christian didn’t know for sure, but he thought she might be dragging her feet and probably didn’t really want to visit Austria. One day he emailed, “I really would love for you to visit.” She shocked him by replying, “Send me a ticket.”

She spent three weeks visiting Christian in Graz. In March 2012, they married in Las Vegas. He wore traditional Austrian Leder-hosen for the wedding.

Jai and her daughter, Maddie, packed

their things and moved to Graz. Jai said, “At first, it was hard, I didn’t speak German. But now, I love living in Graz.” Maddie now has a baby brother named James.

How did Greta and I meet them and why are we living in their home? There is a website called

homeexchange.com. On that website, people can trade their home/apartment/ranch—where ever they live—for an agreed upon period of time with people who own living accommodations as well. People from different countries often exchange homes.

In December 2014, Christian, Jai, Maddie and James stayed in Greta’s San Clemente home for the holidays. And now, we are staying at their home in Graz. While we are here, they are living at Christian’s father’s farm outside of town.

We have been in Graz, the second largest city in Austria, for a week and love it. The city’s central tram station is 100 yards away. The main train station is less than a half mile away. There is no need to rent a car or drive anywhere. There are a variety of restaurants within walking distance.

I will be blogging our trip at www.travelafter55.com. I hope you will follow us and email your comments.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point busi-ness owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at www.findingloveafter50.com. To comment: [email protected]. DP

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

SudokuLast week’s solution:

BY MYLES MELLOR

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.Nickie Hill adds some fun color to Tessa Von Dwin-gelo’s hair.

Jack Pascual tries his luck at the Penny Toss.

Gabriel Chuc was the day’s first Cake Walk winner.

Students get covered in colored tempera and corn starch in the Color Run.

Kirstyn Bradshaw and Christina Bolton had fun getting messy in the Color Run.

Palisades Principal Curt Visca clowns around with students Chloe Johnson and Lorenzo Isacs.

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

Submit your classifi ed ad online at www.danapointtimes.com

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GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

E-mail your garage sale to classifi [email protected]

Deadline 5 p.m. Monday. No phone calls please.

SERVICES

BUSINESS DIRECTORYSan Clemente

DPDana Point

LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733


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OTHER INTERESTING STUFF

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VINTAGE SURFBOARD 1985 STEWART/T&C SURFBOARD’ -$250. 949.933.0122

PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $130. 949.533.9761

PART-TIME DENTAL ASSISTANT/OFFICE ASSISTANTDays needed are Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Entry level position. Must be tech savvy and a team player. Please call 949-241-6633

HOMESELLERS - Find out what the home down the street sold for! Free computerized list of area home sales and current listings. Free recorded message 1-800-287-1012 ID#1041. - The W Realty Group -

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to sections 3071 and 3072 of the civil code of the State of California, the undersigned, Har-leys Garage Inc. located at 23131 Orange Ave, Unit H, Lake Forest, CA 92630, will sell at a public sale on May 5th, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. the following property: CA 7AEZ694, VIN# KMHTC6AD6DU150729, a 2013 Hyundai Veloster.

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times April 24–30, 2015 Page 15

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Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892

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AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

AUTO REPAIR

Dana Point Auto34342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, 949.496.1086

CAFE - DELI

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

COFFEE SHOP

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

DANCE/FITNESS

Club Salsa Dance Studio34202 Camino CapistranoCapistrano Beach, 949.230.0543, www.clubsalsadance.com

DRAPERY

JACKIE LEE ASID-CID949-493-6694

GRAPHIC DESIGN

IMAGES/Creative Solutions117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com

ICE CREAM

Coffee Importers Scoop Deck34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

Patricia Powers24551 Del Prado, Ste. 364, 949.496.1900, [email protected]

State Farm/Ted Bowersox34085 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. 204, 949.661.3200, www.tedbowersox.com

Statefarm/Elaine LaVine34080 Golden Lantern, 949.240.8944, www.elainelavine.net

MUSIC INSTRUCTION

Danman’s Music School24699 Del Prado, 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

PET GROOMING

Dawgy Style Groom Shop34085 Pacifi c Coast Hwy, Unit 112, 949.496.3315, www.dawgystylegroomshop.net

PLUMBING

Chick’s Plumbing949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

Dream Team Properties, Mike Rosenberg, Broker949.481.1788, www.FindMyOCHome.com

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools 32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Cap-istrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

UPHOLSTERY

Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors34212 Pacifi c Coast Hwy, Unit C, 949.240.9569 www.jeddys.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction949.444.6323, www.offshoreconstruction.org

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS LISTINGS

Dana Point Times April 24-30, 2015 Page 16 www.danapointtimes.com

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORESPORTS & OUTDOORSDP

Dana Point

Dolphin Report

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the Dana Hills High School spring sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Phil Skinner Named Dolphins Head Football Coach

Phil Skinner, a longtime member of the Dana Hills High School coaching staff, has been named the program’s new head football coach, according to athletic direc-tor David Georgia.

Georgia said April 16 that the school has sent their recommendation regarding the hire to the Capistrano Unifi ed School District board for approval.

Skinner will replace former head coach Todd Rusinkovich, who resigned during the offseason.

Skinner has been with the Dolphins program since the 2007 season and has served in various roles including assistant head coach, offensive line coach, strength and conditioning coach and assistant to the offensive coordinator, according to Georgia. Skinner coached at Villa Park High School from 1996-2006.

Although he has been a familiar face on campus, Georgia said Skinner entered the interview with a fresh, new plan on where he will take the program.

“Phil separated himself by coming in and saying this is how he was going to get it done,” Georgia said. “He’s going to insert

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, DANA POINT TIMES

Phil Skinner was named the new Dana Hills High School head football coach on April 16. Photo: Alan Gibby, zone57

Dana Hills senior Marrick Crouse threw his second complete game victory against San Clemente on April 22. Photo: KDahlgren Photography

fun, get the kids and the community ex-cited. It was a really, really good interview.”

Skinner is already a district employee and Georgia expects the hiring process to take place without delay.

The Dolphins are coming off a disap-pointing season that saw them go 1-9 overall and 0-4 in the South Coast League.

Dolphins Baseball Sweeps Tritons

The last time the Dana Hills and San Clemente baseball teams squared off against one another, it was for the Loara Tournament championship back in March. San Clemente won that tilt in extra innings but on April 22, the Dolphins extracted some revenge by sweeping the Tritons in a nonleague double header at Saddleback College.

The Dolphins (21-4, 3-3 league) got yet another strong performance by senior Marrick Crouse (7-2) in the opening game. Crouse pitched his second consecu-tive complete game, allowing only six hits in a narrow 2-1 victory.

Dana Hills took a 1-0 lead in the second inning after Thomas Waldenberger drew a bases loaded walk. Reid Lundeen went 2-2 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in the fi rst game.

Zach Wolf and Hans Crouse combined to pitch the Dolphins to a 5-4 victory in the second game.

Jay Schuyler plated Justin Sterner to make it 1-0 in the fourth inning and the Tritons responded in the bottom half on an RBI triple by Will Tribucher. Trevor Beard would swat a go-ahead RBI later to make it 2-1, San Clemente.

Both teams exchanged runs and were tied 4-4 entering the seventh. The Dol-phins scored the winning run on a Tritons wild pitch.

Dana Hills will return to league play against Aliso Niguel on April 29. —Kevin Dahlgren contributed to this report

Volleyball Stays Out in Front

The Dana Hills boys volleyball team has maintained their fi rst-place standing in the South Coast League from the get-go and has yet to drop a match at the mid-way point of their league season.

The Dolphins (19-1, 5-0) picked up a clean three-set sweep of Tesoro on April 21, putting them at a perfect 5-0 in league, one game clear of rival San Clemente.

Up next for Dana Hills, who has not lost since March 21, is a nonleague road game against Laguna Beach, the top-ranked team in CIF-SS Division 2.

Dana Hills entered the week as the No. 6 team ranked in CIF-SS Division 1.

Girls Lacrosse Loses Close Game With Hawks

The Dana Hills girls lacrosse team has been the tough-luck loser in its last two contests, dropping back to back league games against San Juan Hills and Laguna Hills on April 21 and April 22, respectively.

The Dolphins (3-10, 0-6) lost both games by a combined 26-23 margin.

Dana Hills is set to host Laguna Hills again on April 24 and will cap off league play with an away game against El Toro on May 1.

Dolphins Golf Splits With Tesoro, Topples El Toro

Taking care of home course advantage is paramount in high school golf, a state-ment that rings particularly true for the Dana Hills boys golf team.

The Dolphins play their home matches at El Niguel Country Club, a course that is notoriously hard to navigate through. El Niguel is tight, long and almost always has an ocean breeze running through it.

Dana Hills used their home course knowledge to their benefi t on April 14 against rival Tesoro, defeating the visiting Titans 200-201. The Dolphins’ Clay Fea-gler and Tanner Podres each shot 38 (+2) to earn co-medalist honors with Tesoro’s Robert Beard and Jack Ireland.

However, the Dolphins win, and fi rst-place standing, was short lived, as Tesoro pulled off their own narrow victory one day later at Coto de Caza Golf Course. Feagler was the low man on the day with a 37 (+1), but the Titans prevailed 195-199.

Dana Hills (10-3, 4-1) regrouped to earn a 195-209 victory over El Toro at Shore-cliffs Golf Course on April 21.

The Dolphins now sit one game behind Tesoro in the South Coast League stand-ings. Tesoro has already wrapped up league play with a 5-1 record. The Dolphins were set to play El Toro in their fi nal match of the season on April 23. Results were not available at press time. If the Dolphins win, they will split the league title with Tesoro for a second consecutive year.

Dolphins Track Defeats Cougars

The Dana Hills boys and girls track and fi eld teams beat Capistrano Valley in a dual league meet on April 15. The girls team won 90-46 while the boys team won 113-23.

The Dolphins cleaned up in the fi eld events, with the boys and girls teams each earning victories in the long jump, triple jump, high jump, shot put and discus.

The Dolphins track and fi eld teams were set to compete against Trabuco Hills on April 23. Results were not available at press time.

DP SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITYDP SURFDP

Dana Point

he Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup has been gaining popularity each year for five years and with inevi-

table “growing pains,” the sixth annual stand-up paddling event, held Saturday at Baby Beach, nearly didn’t happen, organiz-ers said.

“With growth came a need for things like electronic chip timing, increased lifeguarding staff, new permitting fees and moving away from running in conjunction with the Festival of Whales, which all had an impact on expenses,” said event direc-tor Barrett Tester.

A benefactor of the fundraising event since last year, The Sport of Kings Foundation found out about the need for funding approximately six weeks before the event and went to work, this time as

Mongoose Cup is what’s SUP

TBY ANDREA SWAYNE, DANA POINT TIMES

(L to R) Mickey Munoz, Barrett Tester and Jim Kempton, kick off the 6th annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup stand-up paddling event, Saturday at Baby Beach. Photo: Bill Schildge

A youth SUP racer rounds a buoy. Photo: Bill Schildge

Joey Madison. Photo: Jack McDaniel

GROM OF THE WEEK

JOEY MADISONoey Madison, 11, is a sixth-grader at Shorecliffs Middle School. He not only competes in Scholastic Surf Series

events as part of his school team, he also surfs in the Volcom VQS, Soul Surf Series and the Western Surfing Association Championship Tour.

Joey started surfing at the age of 8, be-cause his mom surfs and he saw how much fun it looked when watching her and others.

“I asked my mom if I could get a surf coach and she said, ‘yes,’” Joey said. “I got Rick Yeomans for about a year and then I got Andy Fomenko. He’s still my coach. My mom gives me pointers too.”

In school, he is an A and B student who enjoys learning to speak Spanish under the tutelage of his favorite teacher, Señor Hen-nings (Dave Hennings) who is also his team surf coach.

Joey has dreams of someday being a pro surfer on the World Tour and practices every day in pursuit of that goal.

He would also like to be a water pho-tographer when he grows up. His other

J

SURF FORECASTWater Temperature: 58-62 degrees F

Friday: Fun-zone combo of S/SSE swell and NW swell-mix eases as some new SW swell moves in. The blend is good for waist-chest-shoulder high surf for better breaks, with sets going shoulder-head high for standout combo spots around the proper tides. Shape is peaky for the exposed beachbreaks, though a little drained in the morning. Look for light/variable winds early, rising to light to moderate levels from the West in the afternoon. Skies are overcast early before partially clearing.

Longer Range Outlook: Inconsistent SW swell holds through the weekend as modest NW swell-mix winds down. Fun-zone surf continues for good breaks, with the most size on Saturday. Check out Surfline for more details, daily updates, and the longer range outlook!

Sixth annual paddling festival continues to grow, thrive

a sponsor, to find the funds and other sponsorship needed. With their help, the event secured sponsorship from Salt Life, Dodge Ram Trucks, Wahoo’s Fish Tacos and Damian Collins, who volunteered to host the after party at his restaurant, Waterman’s Harbor.

“It was an unforgettable day. There’s no way to describe how great it was. We have such an amazing community and we all just came together for a great day of SUP, friendship and family,” said Vicki Patterson, Sport of Kings Board member and an event organizer. “We want to thank the sponsors and also give special props

interests include skateboarding and “doing projects like building stuff or making art.”

Joey’s favorite pro surfers are Kolohe Andino, because “he’s a really good surfer and inspiring,” and Jamie O’Brien, because “he’s really funny, does board transfers and charges Pipeline on soft tops.”

He said he owes much of his surfing success to his family, teachers, coaches and friends.

“I really want to thank my mom and dad for supporting me, taking me to the beach every day, twice a day,” Joey said. “And I want to thank Bob Martin, my friend Ryan’s dad, because he always helps me with my surf contests and gives me a lot of pointers.” —Andrea Swayne

to Performance Paddling, World Paddle Association and the Paddle Academy for their help in making the event a success as well.”

According to Tester, this year’s event had 127 paid participants. The day included free adaptive paddling for invitees from the Wounded Warrior Project, races, demon-strations, SUP yoga, clinics, food and fun.

“The way the Sport of Kings Foundation Board and other sponsors rallied to sup-port the Mongoose Cup’s growth made this great event even better and further strengthened the community vibe,” Tester said. “This has become such an important event to the SUP community, especially the up-and-coming youth SUP racers. It’s a true community event and we thank all who helped make it happen.”

For a photo slideshow and full results, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. DP

April 24, 2015

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