Dana Point Times

What’s Up With...D A N A P O I N T ’ S T O P 5 H O T T E S T T O P I C S

1LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTINGEYE ON DP

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times February 10–16, 2012 Page 3

City and Business Calendar

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11

Doheny Beach Cleanup 9 a.m.-noon Doheny State Beach hosts a “Love Your Beach” cleanup. Volunteers should meet at lifeguard headquar-ters, adjacent to the mouth of San Juan Creek, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive. Please bring work gloves. For more information, call 949.496.6172 or see www.dohenystatebeach.org.

VFW District 2 Orange County Banquet 6 p.m. Doubletree Suites at

Doheny Beach, 34402 Pacific Coast Highway. Cost $40 per person. RSVP to Dan Schmaltz at 714.906.5025, www.vfwpost9934.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12

Dana Point Harbor Blood Drive 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Bloodmobile will be in the parking lot next to Mahé Restaurant at Dana Point Harbor Drive and Golden Lantern, across from the harbor. Skip the line—log on to www.redcrossblood.org or www.

danapoint.org and click on “Calendar” for an appointment

Paws for Brunch Noon-3 p.m. Pet Project Foundation presents its “Paws for Brunch” fundraiser at Casanova Restaurant, 33585 Del Obispo, suites C-D. Proceeds benefit the pro-hu-mane San Clemente-Dana Point Ani-mal Shelter and $25 of the $55 ticket is tax deductible. For tickets and more info, call 949.595. 8899 or visit www.petprojectfoundation.org.

DPDana Point

THE LATEST: Fifty-eight teachers have been selected as the top educator at their schools, officials from the Capistrano Unified School District and Capistrano Unified Education Association announced this week.

For Dana Point students, the teachers are Jody Cast at R.H. Dana Elementary, Sheila Czajkowski at R.H. Dana ENF, Catherine Currie at Del Obispo Elemen-tary, Barbara Lorenz at John Malcom Elementary, Jennifer Sandvig at Palisades Elementary, Cheri Johnson at Marco Forster Middle and Tim Sampson Dana Hills High.

The teachers are selected by fellow edu-cators at their respective schools before being evaluated by a district committee.

WHAT’S NEXT: District winners will be announced in March and recognized at the annual Teacher of the Year Celebration at Ocean Hills Church in San Juan Capistrano on May 3. The three winners—one each at the elementary, middle and high school levels—will then compete in the Orange County Teacher of the Year contest.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.capousd.org —SNG

...Teachers of the Year?

5

THE LATEST: Over objections from busi-nesses and the Chamber of Commerce, the city on Tuesday moved forward with banning plastic bags used by grocery stores and others.

The council also voted to ban the use of foam containers in restaurants and other businesses.

Councilman Bill Brough voted against the measures, which require another vote before becoming final.

On the same night, Laguna Beach voted to ban bags, too, making the two beach cit-ies the first in Orange County to take those measures. Dana Point council members tried to soften the blow, giving small busi-nesses 18 months to comply with the new bag ban.

Business leaders contend the ban is a financial burden and won’t have the desired impact of protecting the environment because nearby cities still allow bags that will be carried to the beaches. Councilman Scott Schoeffel, a leader in the ban effort, argued that green tourism is on the rise and clean beaches will help fuel Dana Point’s economy.

WHAT’S NEXT: The City Council is ex-pected to give the measures another review March 6.

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

...Plastic Bags Banned?1

...The New Hotel Opening?

3

THE LATEST: Amid growing criticism and mechanical woes at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, both reactors at the power plant remained offline.

Gil Alexander, spokesman for plant operator Southern California Edison, said this week engineers were preparing to inspect the Unit 3 steam generator, which had been shut down Tuesday, January 31 after sensors detected a water leak in the closed loop of water that circulates from the reactor, where it’s heated, to the bottom of the steam generator and back to the reactor.

Alexander said detectors near the leak registered “slightly elevated radiation” though not significant to pose a hazard to workers. Other detectors at the plant showed increased levels.

Alexander said radiation levels returned to normal when the unit was shut down.

Victor Dricks, a spokesman with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, said the leak was .06 gallons per minute. The threshold for SONGS to declare what’s called an unusual event is 25 gallons per minute.

WHAT’S NEXT: Dricks said the NRC has no restriction preventing SCE from return-ing Unit 3 to service.

The SCE spokesman said engineers are preparing to conduct the inspections of the Unit 3 generator tubes and expect the process to take several days for an initial assessment.

Already offline for planned upgrades, Unit 2 was installed 18 months earlier. The unit is showing accelerated wear, which Alexander described as indicative of new steam generators and consistent with the

… SONGS?4

THE LATEST: Dana Point Chamber of Commerce officials and Capistrano officials gathered Thursday for a grand opening of the Marriott Residence Inn at Camino Capistrano and Stonehill Drive.

The hotel, with 130 rooms that include kitchens, has a swimming pool that looks over Doheny Beach. It also boasts two meeting rooms and 1,535 square feet of event space. The hotel is designed for extended stays, and offers free grocery delivery and a free shuttle for guests traveling in a 5-mile radius.

WHAT’S NEXT: The hotel checked in its first 40 guests on Thursday. The website shows rates of $159 per night but offers a $99 special for local residents.

...Brown Sinking Boating Department?

2

THE LATEST: Local boaters are rallying sup-port to battle Gov. Jerry Brown’s proposal to sink the Department of Boating and Waterways. The governor proposes wrap-

FIND OUT MORE: See www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/snasj-residence-inn-san-juan-capistrano —JV

ping the department, with a budget of $69 million, into the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Bruce Heyman of Boaters for Dana Point Harbor said his group supports Cal Boating, but also has battles to fight closer to home during the planned remodel of Dana Point Harbor.

“Every year the issue of DBW’s future comes up…. This year, our board needs to remain focused on those issues, agencies, and advocacy organizations which we be-lieve can help us the most to protect boat-ing and to reverse the recently approved loss of recreational boating resources in Dana Point and our neighboring harbors,” Heyman said in a statement.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Recreational Boaters of California urges people to submit letters of opposition to Brown’s proposal by fax to 916.441.3520 or email to [email protected].

FIND OUT MORE: See www.rboc.org —JV

some wear patterns in the original steam generator that served for more than 30 years.

Dricks said so far only two of the 10,000 tubes had extensive enough wear and would now need to be plugged and taken out of service. SCE will be required to develop a plan for the other tubes showing unusual wear, he said.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.danapoint-times.com —Stacie N. Galang

EYE ON DP

DPSheriff’s BlotterCOMPILED BY JONATHAN VOLZKE

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

Sunday, February 5

SHOTS HEARDCrown Valley Parkway, 32400 Block (10:02 p.m.) A caller reported hearing what sounded like shots coming from the trail or golf course. Another caller reported what sounded like a shot in the 25900 block of Domingo Avenue, too.

PERSON DOWNNiguel Road, 33800 Block (3:48 p.m.)Deputies and firefighters were called when a man was spotted apparently un-conscious by a bus stop near the library. The man was just napping and agreed to go home for some more rest.

DISTURBANCEStonehill Drive/Del Obispo Street (3:47 p.m.) A transient was jumping in and out of traffic, stopping cars.

DISTURBANCEAlta Vista Drive, 24400 Block (3:06 p.m.)A man and woman were fighting. Deputies took their son out front while the matter was settled.

DRUNK IN PUBLICPacific Coast Highway/Selva Road (2:19 p.m.) A caller reported a man in dirty clothing was apparently drunk. He kept falling over, causing the caller to worry the man would fall into traffic. Dispatchers received a second call about a drunk in public a few minutes later. They rounded up the man and took him to the station.

TRESPASSINGCalle Loma, 34700 Block (11:54 a.m.)A man reported two squatters were inside his residence. The caller said one of them threatened him. When last seen, he was walking away carrying a huge bag and a can of beer.

INVESTIGATE PERSON DOWNSelva Road/Alcazar Drive (2:57 a.m.)A man, wearing a red chef’s coat, was found laying face down on the sidewalk. His nose was bleeding and he was scraped up, but couldn’t say what happened.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCYDoheny Park Road, 34100 Block (1:23 a.m.) Somebody was causing trouble at a local watering hole. Firefighters were called, but not needed; the man took a cab home to Mission Viejo.

DISTURBANCELa Plaza, 34100 Block (1:07 a.m.) A caller reported a woman hit her at a pub. She wouldn’t answer dispatcher’s questions but said she’d talk to a deputy on scene.

Saturday, February 4

PETTY THEFTDoheny Park Road, 34000 Block (11:19 p.m.) Two men were taking bales from behind a warehouse store. A 27-year-old man was taken into custody.

CITIZEN ASSISTCortina, 0 Block (9:49 p.m.) A boy called because his mom needed a ride home from her employer’s, where she cleans house. The boy’s aunt was at the community gate, but the guard wouldn’t let her in, and the mother didn’t speak English well enough to call the gate to give instructions.

STOLEN VEHICLE LOCATEDCalle La Primavera, 33900 Block (7;17 p.m.) A caller reported his friend told him his stolen car was found in the parking lot of a Dana Point church. The vehicle was apparently stolen in Orange. Deputies released it to the driver when he arrived.

PETTY THEFTPacific Coast Highway/Golden Lantern (7:10 p.m.) A caller reported seeing

a shoplifter. She called deputies and alerted the shop. But store officials said they had no knowledge of the case and did not want to pursue it.

GRAND THEFTVista de Dons, 27600 Block (5:49 p.m.)A woman reported her roommate was taking a boxspring and mattress that belonged to her. The woman reported the soon-to-be former roommate argued with her and her husband too. A deputy advised them it was a civil matter.

DISTURBANCEDanaelm, 24800 Block (3:28 p.m.)A woman reported her 17-year-old son was acting up again, destroying his bedroom. Deputies had been called to the home earlier in the day, too. The teen was throwing the tantrum because his parents refused to let him go to the winter formal.

DISTURBANCEPacific Coast Highway/Camino Cap-istrano (11:24 a.m.) A caller reported two men with a pit bull were asking for money and blocking the driveway to a gas station. Deputies determined the men, who also had a cat, were transients and that no crime had been committed.

FAMILY DISPUTEBuccaneer Street, 32900 Block (7:41 a.m.) A caller reported their daughter, who had lost full custody of her children because of drugs, showed up demand-ing the kids and money. The woman was screaming and grabbing the children. The woman, who said she was student, was arrested and held on $100,000 bail.

DISTURBANCEPacific Coast Highway/Amber Lantern (2:40 a.m.) A caller reported three women were throwing beer bottles. The caller said they were drunk, but dispatch-ers noted the caller sounded drunk, too. They could also hear what sounded like a fight and people running.

Friday, February 3

CITIZEN ASSISTDomingo Avenue/Doheny Park Road

(10:52 p.m.) A woman reported she was across the street from a bar, where she’d pulled two 18-year-old girls out for under-age drinking. The caller said the girls were throwing a fit.

DISTURBANCECalle La Primavera, 33700 Block (5:43 p.m.)A caller reported a man walked up to his home, slammed the door into him and threw him to the ground. The subject then left on a beach cruiser, the caller said.

TRAFFIC HAZARDCrown Valley Parkway/Seven Seas Drive (4:50 p.m.) A woman was in the road, trying to pick up her groceries.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATIONSDel Obispo Street, 33600 Block (9:28 a.m.)Deputies were again called about a transient. He’d moved a bit, into a parking space where he was laying in a sleeping bag with his feet sticking out.

Thursday, February 2

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCYWindwood Pass, 0 Block (8:29 p.m.)Deputies were called to help with two small children when firefighters were taking a woman to the hospital.

DISTURBANCEPacific Coast Highway/Golden Lantern (11:01 a.m.) A caller reported a teen on a skateboard hit the side of his Jeep.

WELFARE CHECKVictoria Boulevard/Doheny Park Road (10:37 p.m.)A man reported he helped a woman get gas, but then spotted her stopped behind a bar, convulsing. The caller thought it was drug-related.

Wednesday, February 1

PETTY THEFTGolden Lantern, 34500 Block (7:22 p.m.)A man said he caught a woman stealing an employee’s purse, but the woman was claim-ing the bag was hers. The woman left, but deputies caught up with her. Some stolen items were recovered, but the victim did not want to press charges.

on sale and the plat map (a scale map illustrating how a piece of land is divided) was fi led. Some of the original street names remain today: Victoria, Domingo, Las Vegas, Sepulveda, Egan, La Playa, and up to the palisades on Canon. Weekend train specials from the large communi-

San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTSSOAPBOX Dana Point Times, Vol. 5, Issue 6. The DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media,

publishers of the SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

CEO Norb Garrett

EDITORIAL

Group Editor, Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch> Jonathan Volzke

City Editor, DP Times> Andrea Swayne

City Editor, SC Times> Stacie N. Galang

ART/DESIGN

Senior Designer> Jasmine Smith

ADVERTISING/MULTI-MEDIA MARKETING

Associate Publisher> Lauralyn Loynes

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Sales Associate> Angela Edwards

OPERATIONS

Finance Director> Mike Reed

Business Operations Manager> Alyssa Garrett

Distribution Manager> Andrea Swayne

INTERNSMegan Bianco, Austin Patrick Reagan

SPECIAL THANKSRobert Miller

CONTRIBUTORSTawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

EDITORSTORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 [email protected]

ADVERTISINGPRINT AND ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 [email protected]

DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, [email protected]

BILLINGAlyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 [email protected]

HOW TO REACH US

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

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

DPDana Point

Doheny Village Holds More than a Century’s worth of Historyn 1992, as president of the Dana Point Historical Society, I found myself before the newly created Dana Point Cul-tural Commission, with several other nonprofi ts seeking

grant money. I was asking for $500 to help restore the origi-nal 1965 Crown fi re engine that was at the then all-volunteer Fire Station 29 in Capistrano Beach that was acquired from the county. A woman behind me spoke, prefacing her remarks with the comment “That’s not old!” She continued to sell her modern cultural organization’s needs—and orga-nization that no longer exists, I might add. Since then my mantra has been, “If we do not save it now, how will it ever become old?”

Here when we talk about communities that are historic, the east coast or Europe always enter the conversation. After all, Dana Point wasn’t a city until 1989. Yet we often remind ourselves of our namesake, Richard Henry Dana, a 19-year-old man from Boston who went to sea as a sailor. In 1835 he saw Capistrano Bay and noted in his journal that this was “the most romantic spot on the coast.” That one sentence in his now famous book, Two Years before the Mast is quoted by many as they look at our harbor and the replica tall ship Pilgrim. But that was a fl eeting moment, a sentence in a book, a day and a half on land. What is the oldest rem-nant of man’s culture that has left a mark in the sand in our coastal city?

Along the mouth of San Juan Creek there was a small set-tlement called Serra. In 1887, the Santa Fe Railroad built a spur line to the sea coast. This provided easy transportation to a beach resort as land speculators followed the rail road. It was called San Juan-by-the-Sea. On July 14, 1887 lots went

GUEST OPINION: Carlos N. Olvera, Dana Point Historical Society President

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the Dana Point Times staff. We ap-preciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to [email protected].

Ities to the north and south were provided by developers on the Santa Fe for potential land buyers. Attractions included rented bathing tents—to change into your one piece, unisex, water clothing—as well as special fi estas and bullfi ghts.

Between the streets of Domingo and Las Vegas, in the railroad right of way, stood the depot. That community did not survive, but the plat of the area is still there. Today we refer to it as Capistrano Beach, which was given the name in 1927 when a newer development came to town and labeled it “The Birth of a City.” Shortly after, oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny bought out the development and turned it over to his son Ned for completion. The 1929 historic homes stand today of that historic era. Forster Ave. was renamed Doheny Park road. But its 1887 foot print remains.

Today the City of Dana Point is looking to revitalize the area. Planning sessions are underway to get business and resident input. The freeway approach cut a swath through the center of the town in the late 1950s and not much can be done to restore that era. And it is not just a paint job the Vil-lage needs. It was a destination 125 years ago this summer. It can be a destination today. Let’s use this revitalization opportunity to bring together our history—why and how we came to be here. Is there room for an old fashion train depot? Our dirt is just as old as anywhere else in the world but our culture is different. Shall we celebrate our 125 year anniversary? DP

A train depot was built in 1888 in San Juan-by-the-Sea, now known as Capistrano Beach, making Doheny Village an important part of area history. This photo, from the Dana Point Historical Society archives, shows one of three depots that stood there. It is unclear whether this one was the fi rst.

ACOUSTIC EIDOLON 7:30 p.m. Joe Scott and Hannah Al-kire play at Dana Point Commu-nity House, for the Lord of the Strings concert series. Tickets $25. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana

Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

LEROY 6:30 p.m.-close. Acoustic guitarist plays music at Zona’s. 647 Camino de Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.970.4568, www.ZonaItalianRestaurant.com.

ANGELIKA WILSON 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Wind and Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.


THE LISTfriday

10

CAPO BAY LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS EVENT10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Speech by Lynda Sloan, director at CASA of Orange County, on how we can help our youth take positive

turns in their at risk lives. The Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.492.7675.

saturday 11

A TRIBUTE TO OUR NA-TION’S HEROES & FAMI-LIES 12 p.m.-3 p.m. The Kalei-doscope teams with Freedom Is Not Free to host an event with patriotic entertainment,

performances, speeches, shopping and food specials, activities for the family and more. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo, www.gokaleidoscope.com.

SENIORS’ VALENTINE’S DINNER 5 p.m. Special romantic event with dinner and dancing for seniors at the Dana Point Community Center. 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, 949.496.4252, www.danapoint.org.

sunday 12

WHALE WATCHINGCapt Dave’s Safari has daily departures for whale and dol-phin watching. Boat includes underwater viewing pods.Cost $55 adults, $35 children,

2 and younger free. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

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

monday 13

POUL PEDERSEN & VAL-ENTINE’S DINNER 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Dinner at Renaissance with music. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

tuesday 14

THE JUNGLE BOOK7 p.m. Shorecliff’s Junior High students perform in the auditorium, with shows Feb. 15 & 16. $8. 240 Via Socorro San Cle-

mente, 949. 498.1660, www.shorecliffs.schoolloop.com.

JASON FOSTER & BRANDI SMITH 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live acoustic duo at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

DECODING YOUR DESTINY 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Special event at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

wednesday 15

GRUNION FILM & LECTURE6:30 p.m. The Ocean Institute features Dr. Karen Martin and her award-winning documentary about grunions and the famous spawning habits on moonlit

nights. Cost $10; members free. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

2012 FACULTY ART AND PHOTO EXHIBITION4 p.m.-8 p.m. An art exhibit at Saddleback College. Free admission. On display through March 8. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu.

DANA POINT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MIXER5:30 p.m. Mixer at Gemmell’s Restaurant. 34471 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.danapointchamber.com.

thursday 16

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

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

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

GETTING OUT

CULINARY DEMONSTRATION CLASS: LATIN APHRODISIACS 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Latin Aphrodisi-acs and signature cocktails with Chef Richard Sandoval at The Ritz-Carlton. Cost begins at $109. 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

THE FUTURE OF FOOD 9 a.m.-12 p.m. SC Community Market hosts a showing of The Future of Food. 1506 Calle Valle, San Clemente, www.sanclementemarket.com.

FARM TO FORK 10:30 a.m. Children’s program at The Ecology Center’s exploring veggie gardens and preparing small-plate meals with local chefs. Recommended for ages 6 to 12. Sign up in advance online. Cost $15 members, $20 non-members. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

San Clemente

DPDana Point

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

Budding artists and marine mammal enthusiasts now have a great opportunity to experi-ence both in an adventure aboard a 63-foot catamaran in the waters off of Dana Point. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching is offering Art Lessons in the Wild with world renowned marine life muralist Wyland, at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in Febru-ary. These adventures feature a hands-on video art lesson by Wyland (art supplies included) aboard the Ocean Adventure followed by a two-and-a-half-hour dolphin and whale watching excursion. Adults are welcome to share this fun activity with their kids but only the children may enter their creations in an art contest to be judged by Wyland himself. The grand prize is a private whale watching charter with Wyland, valued at $2,000, for winner and their fam-ily. Other prizes include $50 gift cards to the Wyland Gallery gift shop and whale watching tickets. And every child who participates will receive a coupon to redeem for a gift at the Wyland Gallery in Laguna Beach. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Wyland Foundation and its mission to provide marine conservation education and outreach to under-served communities. For more about the Wyland Foundation, see www.wylandfoundation.org. Tickets are $59 for adults and $44 for children 14 and under. For tickets and information,

log on to www.danawharf.com/wyland.htm. DP –Andrea Swayne

GO.SEE.DO. ART LESSONS IN THE WILD

Courtesy Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching

WIN FREE TICKETS! The first person to email us with DP Times Free Concert Tix in the subject will receive a pair of tickets from The Coach House to see Comedy Club with Dana Daniels on Thursday, Feb. 16. Include your name and phone number. EMAIL: [email protected]

A ROMANTIC RENDEZVOUS 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Special event at Casa Romantica with live music by Elliot, dancing, hors d’oeuvres, chocolates, champagne and more. Cost $40 each. Special pricing featuring dinner at Carbonara’s available. Call for reservations. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

VALENTINE’S DAY CRUISE 4 p.m.-6 p.m. Dana Wharf hosts a romantic sunset cruise. Includes glass of cham-pagne, treats and a cash bar. $32. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

EDITOR’S PICK: Dana Point Symphony 7:30 p.m. Dana Point Symphony kicks off its premier season with performances of Mozart Overture to Marriage of Figaro, Brahms Double Con-

certo and Mozart Symphony No. 40 featuring Mira Khomik on violin and Bronwyn Banerdt, cello. A reception with art by Paul Bond will follow. Tickets available at the door—$12 adults, $8 kids under 16, seniors over 65 and military. St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, 301.832.0388, www.danapointsymphony.com

A hearty congratulationsto this year’s winners of the Dana Point Times 4th Annual Lantern Awards. In 2011, it was the best of times and the worst of times for the small, medium and large businesses that keep this beautiful harbor community moving. While the economy continued to recover, companies and their employees hunkered down and some, sadly, didn’t make it. This just gives us all the more reason to salute — and patronize — the ones who survived not by taking shortcuts but by streamlining their business and continuing to impress us.

With our hectic schedules fi lled with school, work and play, we often take for granted the folks who ease our lives. They groom Fido. They clean our work shirts and keep our water craft up and running. They help us keep our fi tness routines. They keep our bellies fi lled and put smiles on our faces. So cheers to all the winners and the hundreds of nominees. — Andrea Swayne

The Shwack Beach Grill earned top burger honors their fi rst year in Dana Point. Photo by Andrea Swayne

PAGE 3 WWW.DANAPOINTTIMES.COM

• Best Happy Hour •

Wind & Sea 34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500,www.windandsearestaurants.com

With a beautiful harborside patio, drink specials and pupus, it’s no wonder Dana Point locals voted Wind & Sea a top choice for best happy hour. Specially priced beer, Mai-tais and wines paired with calamari strips, teriyaki tidbits or sashimi are just a few available accompaniments to an enjoyable afternoon sunset on the lanai. —AS

Harpoon Henry’s 34555 Golden Lantern, 949.493.2933

www.windandsearestaurants.com/harpoonhenrys

NOMINEES: 180 Blu at The Ritz-Carlton • Brio Tuscany Grille • Caliente Coastal Cantina • Cannons Restaurant • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant &Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Dana West Yacht Club • El Torito • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Jolly Roger • Luxe Restaurant and Bar • Mahé • Mori Sushi • OverVue Lounge at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • Proud Mary’s • Re-naissance • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Thai This • The Fish Bucket • The Shwack Beach Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • Vivo Rooftop Lounge at Doubletree Doheny Beach • Yappy Hour at The Ritz-Carlton2010 WINNERS: Gold: Mahé; Silver: Wind & Sea

• Best International Eats •

Thai This24501 Del Prado, 949.240.7944, www.thaithis.com

For two decades, Thai This owner “Jib” Roungchun has put his love in every meal. Customers are made to feel as if they’re having a meal at a friend’s house — high-end food in a very casual environment. Family recipes form the basis of the menu. “Even though we live in a different latitude, I try to bring all the Thai-titude here,” the owner said. —SNG

Peking Dragon 34171 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., (949) 493-9499, www.pekingdragonrestaurant.com

NOMINEES: Agostino’s Ristorante and Bar • A’s Burgers • Aurora’s Taqueria • Bonjour Café • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cali-ente Coastal Cantina • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Cannons Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chronic Tacos • Dana Kai Japanese Cuisine • El Patio • El Torito • Gem-mell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Hennessey’s Tavern • Harbor House Café • Ichibiri • Jack’s Restaurant • Las Golondrinas Mexican Food • Little Kitchen Asian Café • Luci-ana’s • Mahé • Mario’s by the Sea • Mori Sushi • Motif at the St. Regis • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Quench Bar & Bistro • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Ristorante Ferrantelli • Round Table Pizza • Shanghai Charlie’s • Stacks Pancake House • Stella’s Serious Italian • Taco Surf • Thai Dara • The Harbor Grill • The Shwack Beach Grill • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: Thai This; Silver: Mahé

• Best Restaurant for a • Date/Romantic Evening

Chart House 34442 Green Lantern, 949.493.1183,www.chart-house.com

Chart House gives customers sweeping views of Dana Point Harbor and beyond from a bluff

on Green Lantern. The restaurant chain, owned by Landry’s, prides itself on tailoring its cuisine to local offerings and preparing it expertly. Add a comprehensive wine list and a dessert menu to die for and the eatery is the ideal backdrop for a date to remember. —SNG

Luciana’s Ristorante 24312 Del Prado, 949.661.6500, www.lucianas.com

NOMINEES: Agostino’s Ristorante & Bar • A’s Burgers • Brio Tuscany Grille • Beach Cities Pizza • Cannons Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Dana West Yacht Club • El Torito • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s • Jack’s Restaurant • Jolly Roger • Luxe Restaurant and Bar • Mahé • Mario’s By The Sea • Motif at the St. Regis • Quench Bar & Bistro • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Renaissance • Ristorante Ferrantelli • Salt Creek Grill • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Thai This • The Coffee Import-ers • The Harbor Grill • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Shwack Beach Grill • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Vue Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Chart House; Silver: (TIE) Brio Tuscany Grille, Luciana’s Ristorante

• Best Overall Restaurant •

The Harbor Grill 34499 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1416www.harborgrill.com

Thursday oyster night is just one of many specials that keep Harbor Grill regulars com-ing back. The menu also features favorites like lobster ravioli, crawfi sh etoufee, angus steaks and burgers. The chefs even use fresh seasonings from the restaurant’s onsite herb garden. “We’re feel honored to be recognized by our customers in this way. Thank you all,”

said owner John Hicks. —AS

Brio Tuscany Grille24050 Camino Del Avion,

949.443.1476, www.briorestaurant.com

NOMINEES: A’s Burgers • Agostino’s Ristorante and Bar • Aurora’s Taqueria • Beach Cities Pizza • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Restaurant • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Dana Kai Japanese Cuisine • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • El Patio Café • El Torito • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Ichibiri • Jack’s Restaurant • Jolly Roger • Jon’s Fish Market • Luciana’s Ristorante • Mahé• Mario’s by the Sea • Motif at the St. Regis • New York Deli • Olemendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Peking Dragon • Proud Mary’s • Quench Bar & Bistro • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Renaissance Café • Rib Joint • Ristorante Ferrantelli • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • Shanghai Charlie’s • Smokey’s House of BBQ • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Subway • Taco Surf • Thai Dara • Thai This • The Brig • The Shwack Beach Grill The Coffee Importers • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Vue Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Brio Tuscany Grille; Silver: The Harbor Grill

• Best Breakfast •

RJ’s Café 25001 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.218.5757, www.rjscafe.com

RJ’s serves a wide variety of tasty breakfast foods all day. There are plenty of choices for egg lovers, from eggs Benedict to awesome three-egg omelettes. The heavenly pota-toes—home-fried spuds with bacon, mush-rooms, spinach, onions and jack and cheddar cheese—live up to their name. The breakfast burritos, stuffed French toast and fl uffy pan-cakes are great choices as well.—AS

The Coffee Importers 34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773,www.coffeeimporters.com

NOMINEES: A’s Burger • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Carlos Mexi-can Restaurant • Denny’s • Dippity Donuts • Donut World • El Torito • Harbor Deli • Harbor House Café • I Love Bagels • Jack’s Restaurant • J.C. Beans • Jolly Roger • Pain du Monde • Proud Mary’s • Quench Bar & Bistro • Renaissance • Salt Creek Grille • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • Subway • The Brig Res-taurant • The Coffee Importers • The Harbor Grill • The Shwack Beach Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: RJ’s Café: Silver: (TIE) Harbor House Café, What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering

• Best Cup of Coffee •

The Coffee Importers34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773,www.coffeeimporters.com

Since 1957 The Coffee Importers has been the most popular place locals go for coffee and conversation. Hot or cold, sweet or bold, Jim Miller’s popular harbor-side hangout has something to satisfy every coffee craving. It’s no wonder they have swept this category every year since the fi rst Best of Dana Point Lantern Awards in 2008. –AS

J.C. Beans 34114 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.4700, www.jcbeans.com

NOMINEES: ampm • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Dana Point Donuts • Harbor House Café • Brio Tuscany Grille • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Circle K • Dana Point Donuts • Denny’s • Dippity Donuts • Harbor House Café • Jolly Roger • McDonald’s • Pain du Monde • Proud Mary’s • RJ’s Café • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • Subway • The Brig • The Shwack Beach Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Vue Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Coffee Importers; Silver: J.C. Beans

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Nu Tangjaitrong, Linette Roungchun and Tan Wenk of Thai This. Photo by Andrea Swayne


• Best Donut •

Dippity Donuts33621 Del Obispo, Ste. C, 949.240.6064

Dippity Donuts is a no fuss, no muss busi-ness. They serve up a variety of confections from the fruity-frosted cake donuts to cinna-mon-coated twists. Jelly donuts, maple bars and muffi ns also round out the mix. If donut goodness isn’t the customer’s thing, Dippity offers breakfast, burgers and more at what reviewers describe as good prices.—SNG

Dana Point Donuts CLOSED

NOMINEES: Donut World • J.C. Beans • Ralphs • RJ’s Café • Starbucks • The Brig • The Coffee Importers 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Donuts; Silver: Dippity Donuts

• Best Bagel •


The Coffee Importers takes gold in this new category for 2011. More than a coffee shop, this popular harbor eatery offers a variety of freshly baked bagels and toppings for breakfast or lunch on the “deli side” of the restaurant. The Lox & Bagel—a toasted bagel topped with cream cheese, onions, tomatoes, capers, smoked salmon and a sprinkle of lemon pepper, is a local favorite.—AS

I Love Bagels 32545 Golden Lantern # B, 949.443.3300

NOMINEES: Dana Point Donuts • Donut World • Harbor House • J.C. Beans • Pain du Monde • RJ’s Café • Starbucks 2010 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2011.

• Best Wine Selection •

Da Vine Food & Wine 34673 Golden Lantern, 949.493.4044,www.davine-wine.com

Owner Marla Sherman Balmuth and hus-band and wine buyer Steve Balmuth say their loyal customer base was built not only on the shop’s carefully chosen selection of fi ne wines, but also on the total experience offered there. The duo passes on their conta-gious love of good food, good wine and good times with every event and wine tasting.—AS

Luciana’s Ristorante24312 Del Prado, 949.661.6500, www.lucianas.com

NOMINEES: Agostino’s Ristorante & Bar • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Dana Point Cigar and Wine • Dana West Yacht Club • Eno at The Ritz-Carlton • Ristorante Ferrantelli • Gelson’s • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harpoon Henry’s • Jack’s • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant and Bar • Mahé • Monarch Beach Market • Quench Bar & Bistro • Ralphs • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • The Renaissance • The Ritz-Carlton • Salt Creek Grille • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Stella’s Serious Italian • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • Vivo Rooftop Lounge at Doubletree Doheny Beach • Vue Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott• What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Da Vine Food & Wine; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

• Best Menu for •Healthy Choices


The “deli side” of Coffee Importers has a fresh juice bar offering fruit smoothies with add-ins like oat bran, protein, vitamin C, bee pollen, ginseng, calcium, fl axseed, spirulina and more, as well as veggie tonics, detoxify-ing juices, green tea and wheat grass shots. Health-conscious customers can also choose soups, salads and wraps to keep taste buds happy and bodies healthy. –AS

What a Dish Café & Catering

24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Suite B100, 949.276.4884, www.whatadishoc.com

NOMINEES: Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Cannons Restaurant • Chronic Taco • El Pollo Loco • Gelson’s • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Harpoon Henry’s • Jack in the Box • Jack’s Restaurant • Jamba Juice • Jon’s Fish Market • Luciana’s Ristorante • Luxe Restaurant and Bar • Mahé • Monarch Beach Market • Quench Bar & Bistro • RJ’s Café • Stacks Pancake House • Subway • Thai Dara • Thai This • The Harbor Grill • The Little Kitchen Asian Café • The Shwack Beach Grill • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Coffee Importers; Silver: What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering

• Best Sandwich •

Tutor & Spunky’s Deli34085 Pacifi c Coast Hwy.,

949.248.3851, www.tutorandspunkys.com

Readers know Tom Blake is the author of our “Life and Love After 50” column. But Blake’s got another side, too, one that runs the popular sandwich shop Tutor & Spunky’s.

It’s the sort of place where sandwiches are named after customers or a bit tongue-in-cheek (take the “Cheat a Little,” which is the veggie with a slice of cheese). —Jonathan Volzke


NOMINEES: A’s Burgers • Beach Cities Pizza • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Dana West Yacht Club • Gelson’s • Harbor Deli • Harbor House Café • Hennessey’s Tavern • Monarch Beach Ranch Market • Proud Mary’s • Quench Bar & Bistro • Ralphs • Renaissance • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Grille • Stacks Pancake House • Subway • The Brig • The Harbor Grill • The Shwack Beach Grill • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Tutor and Spunky’s Deli; Silver: The Coffee Importers

• Best Taco •

Taco Surf34195 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.661.5754, www.tacosurf.com

Taco Surf continues to live up to its repu-tation—merging the cuisine and the laid back surf town vibe of Baja, Mexico—to take top honors for a fourth consecutive year. Scratch-made taco fi llings like carne asada, chicken, fi sh, pork carnitas or shrimp combine with crunchy lettuce, guacamole, cheese and more in a choice of soft or crispy tortillas, keep hungry customers coming back for more. –AS

Chronic Taco34255 Pacifi c Coast Hwy.,

949.481.3720, www.eatchronictacos.com

NOMINEES: A’s Burgers • Aurora’s Taqueria • Beach Cities Pizza • Buena Vista Market • Caliente Coastal Cantina • Car-los Mexican Restaurant • Coconuts • Dana West Yacht Club • Del Taco • El Patio Café • El Pollo Loco • El Torito • Island Style Taco • Jon’s Fish Market• Las Golondrinas • Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant • Proud Mary’s • Renaissance • RJ’s Café • Taco Bell • The Harbor Grill • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering2010 WINNERS: Gold: Taco Surf; Silver: Chronic Taco

• Best Burger •

The Shwack Beach Grill24502 Del Prado, 949.218.2731www.theshwack.com

Since opening in July, Shwack Beach Grill has made a big impression on burger lovers in Dana Point. Owner Max Fisher owes it to his star ingredient, Vintage brand prime or chuck only beef. “It’s all natural, antibiotic and hormone free and comes loose packed so we can form our own patties,” he said. “It makes a big difference in retaining all the juices and fl avor.” –AS

A’s Burgers34344 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.4460

NOMINEES: Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Restaurant • Cali-ente Coastal Cantina • Carl’s Jr • Coconuts • Coffee Importers • Dana West Yacht Club • Dippity Donuts • Donut World • House Café • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack in the Box • Jolly Roger Restaurant • McDonalds • Monarch Beach Club • Proud Mary’s • R J’s Café • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • The Renaissance • Salt Creek Grille • Smokey’s House of BBQ • The Brig Restaurant • The Harbor Grill • Turk’s Restaurant •The Harbor Grill • Vue Restaurant at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: A’s Burgers; Silver: Hennessey’s Tavern

• Best Sushi •

Gen Kai34143 Pacifc Coast Hwy., 949.240.2004www.mygenkaidanapoint.com

Sushi lovers and fans of Japanese cuisine in general are sure to enjoy this local favorite. Gen Kai offers a large selection of menu items from traditional sushi preparations to the innovative sushi burritos, Japanese taquitos and sushi nachos. Customers can choose to enjoy a meal at the sushi bar, a main dining room or private tea rooms for a more intimate settings.—MB

Mahé24961 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.240.6243, www.eatatmahe.com

NOMINEES: Dana Kai Japanese Cuisine • Ichibiri • Maki Yaki • Mori Sushi • Ralphs • Sushi Kiyo • Thai This 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Gen Kai; Silver: Mahé

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The Coffee Importers owner Jim Miller with the popular Lox & Bagel. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Tutor and Spunky’s staff (L to R) Teresa Gonzalez, Veronica Sanchez, Fidelina Peralta, owner Tom Blake, Irene Arteaga, Ryan Brintle and Debbie Pachyn. Photo by Andrea Swayne


• Best Pizza •

Beach Cities Pizza34473 Golden Lantern, 949.496.0606www.beachcitiespizza.com

Sauce made from scratch, fresh veggies and quality meats and cheeses expertly combined atop a “not too thick, not too thin” crust have earned Beach Cities Pizza gold medal honors for the fourth straight year. “Everything is fresh and of high quality,” said employee Paul Arsenault. “Our homemade pizza dough and real Wisconsin cheese really bring it all together.” –AS

Stuft Pizza24821 Del Prado, 949.240.6444, www.stuftpizza.com

NOMINEES: Agostino’s Ristorante & Bar • Brio Tuscany Grille • Bubba Kahuna’s • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Dominos Pizza • Jack’s Restaurant • Kokomo’s Pizza • Papa Murphy’s • Pizza Hut • Quench Bar & Bistro • Round Table Pizza • Slice of New York • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stuft Pizza • The Market Place at The Ritz-Carlton 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Beach Cities Pizza; Silver: Stuft Pizza

• Best Appetizers •

Wind & Sea34699 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6500,www.windandsearestaurants.com

Wind & Sea takes top honors once again as a great place to nosh on a variety of delicious appetizers while enjoying a 180-degree view of the harbor. The menu features Pacifi c Rim choices like ahi poke and kalua pork sliders as well as snack time faves like nachos and chips and guacamole.—AS

Harpoon Henry’s 34555 Golden Lantern, 949.493.2933

www.windandsearestaurants.com/harpoonhenrys NOMINEES: 180 Blu at The Ritz-Carlton • Beach Cities Pizza • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Restaurant • Casanova Restau-rant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Da Vine Food & Wine • El Torito • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gen Kai Japanese Restaurant • Harbor Grill • Harbor House Café • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Luxe Restaurant and Bar • Mahé • Motif at St. Regis • OverVue Lounge at Laguna Cliffs • Marriott Proud Mary’s • Quench Bar & Bistro • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Re-naissance • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Thai This • The Shwack Beach Grill • Turk’s Restaurant • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Wind & Sea; Silver: Mahé

• Best Spot to •Satisfy a Sweet Tooth

Scoop Deck Ice Cream at The Coffee Importers

34531 Golden Lantern, 949.493.7773, www.coffeeimporters.com

Scoop Deck at the Coffee Importers is a desti-nation of choice for Dana Point locals looking to satisfy a sweet tooth. With over 20 ice cream fl avors to choose from and specialty treats like sundaes, shakes, malts and Italian sodas, the Scoop Deck is a sweet treat not only for their menu but also for their beautiful waterside harbor location.—AS

It’s All About the Cake24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive,

949.240.7100, www.itsallaboutthecake.com

NOMINEES: Baskin Robbins • Brio Tuscany Grille • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Dana Point Donuts • Da Vine Food and Wine • Dippity Donuts • El Torito • Gelson’s • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Harbor House Café • Harpoon Henry’s • J.C. Beans • Jack’s Restaurant • Pain du Monde • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Smokey’s House of BBQ • Stacks Pancake House • Starbucks • The Brig Restaurant • The Chocolate Solider • Tutor & Spunky’s Deli • Wind & Sea • Yogurtland2010 WINNERS: Gold: It’s All About the Cake; Silver: Scoop Deck Ice Cream at The Coffee Importers

• Best Margarita •

El Torito34521 Golden Lantern, 949.496.6311, www.eltorito.com

For an after work drink or weekend night treat, El Torito’s margaritas are a popular choice among Dana Point locals. The house margarita is made with Premium Gold Tequila and the Cadillac is crafted with Premium 1800 Reposado Tequila and comes with a side shot of Grand Marnier. They also offer a wide selection of fruit fl avors, a supercharged 100-proof margarita and the top-shelf Patron Perfect Margarita. –MB

Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant34664 Pacifi c Coast Hwy.,

949.661.1005, www.originalolamendis.com

NOMINEES: Brio Tuscany Grille • Caliente Coastal Cantina • Cannon’s • Carlos Mexican Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Fish Bucket • Harbor Grill • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jack’s Restaurant • Jolly Roger • Mahé • Raya at the Ritz-Carlton • Salt Creek Grille • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Turk’s Restaurant • Wind & Sea 2010 WINNERS: Gold: El Torito; Silver: Caliente Coastal Cantina

• Best Bar •

Turk’s Restaurant34683 Golden Lantern, 949.496.9028

Turk’s is famous as much for its lively clien-tele and harbor side location as it is for its bartenders’ notoriously generous mixing of cocktails—watered down, overpriced drinks have no place at this establishment. Cus-tomers also appreciate the tasty selection of food on the menu.—AS

Hennessey’s Tavern34111 La Plaza, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Bar and Grill • Brio Tuscany Grille • Caliente Coastal Cantina• Cannon’s Restaurant • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Coconuts • Dana West Yacht Club • El Torito • Fish Bucket • Harbor Grill • Harpoon Henry’s • Jack’s • Jolly Roger • Luxe • Mahé • OverVue Lounge at La-guna Cliffs Marriott • Proud Mary’s • Raya at The Ritz-Carlton • Renaissance Café • Rib Joint • Salt Creek Grille • Stella’s Serious Italian • Stonehill Tavern at St. Regis • Sunsets Capo Beach • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: Turk’s Restaurant; Silver: (TIE) Hen-nessey’s Tavern, Mahé Restaurant

• Best Venue for • Live Music

Renaissance24701 Del Prado, 949.661.6003,www.renaissance-danapoint.com

Renaissance is the go to place for a fun night out on the town in Dana Point. A wide range of live acts that varies from jazz and blues

to rock and pop can be enjoyed alongside a delicious dinner and wine. “Live music every day for 18 years” is the hallmark of the restau-rant’s success, says manager Bill Milton.—MB

Brio Tuscany Grille24050 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.1476,www.briorestaurant.com

NOMINEES: Caliente Coastal Cantina • Coconuts • Dana West Yacht Club • Dana Pride • Da Vine Food & Wine • Doheny Blues Festival • Fish Bucket • Harbor Grill • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Jolly Roger • Lord of the Strings Concerts • Mahé • OverVue Lounge at Laguna Cliffs Marriott • Salt Creek Grille • St. Edwards Church • Sunsets Capo Beach • Taco Surf • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: Renaissance; Silver: Brio Tuscany Grille

• Best Jewelry •

Swiss Connection Fine Jewelry and Watches

32565 Golden Lantern, Ste. A, 949.488.0900, www.jeanjacquesmamie.com

From the outset, Swiss Connection strived to carry top quality jewelry that’s both unique and eclectic. Nina Mamie, who owns the shop with her husband and jeweler Jean-Jacques, described their collection as having a “European fl avor.” Customers return again and again to see new pieces. “We have a lot of people that come back year after year,” she said. —SNG

White Pelican34475 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1991,

www.danapointharbor.com/WhitePelican.html

NOMINEES: About Time Watch Co. • Azalea Salon & Boutique • Bella Bazaar • Dana Point Jeweler • Doheny Clothing Exchange • Gift Chateau • Girl in the Curl • Golden Galleon • Harbor Jeweler • Hobie Surf & Sport • JunQies • Marinelli Fine Jewelry • Mille Fleurs • Salon Rouge • The Downstairs Store • The Upstairs Store • Tutta Bella 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Swiss Connection Fine Jewelry and Watches; Silver: Marinelli Fine Jewelry

• Best Store to • Buy Gifts for Kids

The Wee Loft32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. K, 949.489.9202, www.theweeloft.com

Generations have delighted in the neighbor-hood toy store The Wee Loft. For 22 years in Dana Point and 32 years overall, owners Annette Garcia and Erin Kelly have engaged and entertained children with their selection of toys, books and gadgets. “Our families and our customers, they just make us so happy,” Garcia said. Stop by for whimsical toys and unusual trinkets.—SNG

JunQie’s24662 Del Prado, 949.496.4406,www.junqies.net

NOMINEES: Doheny Clothing Exchange • Fairytales Children’s Boutique • Gift Chateau • Girl in the Curl • Hobie Surf Shop • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • Jack’s Surf Shop • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Ocean Institute • Momilani’s Island • The Country Fox • The Upstairs Store2010 WINNERS: Gold: (TIE) Girl in the Curl, The Wee Loft; Silver: Fairytales Children’s Boutique

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Wee Loft owners Erin Kelly and Annette Garcia with loyal customer Brooke Northway (4) of Dana Point. Photo by Andrea Swayne

• Best Bar •

• Best Clothing •

Doheny Clothing Exchange

34276 Doheny Park Road, 949.240.4800

Mother, daughter owners Pamela Vandergrift and Caia Curiale say their customers appreci-ate the wide variety of fashions they fi nd in the store. “I have a more bohemian style and Caia has a more dressy Newport style so we bring that together and it works for our customers,” said Vandergrift. “Exchanging gently used clothing is good for the environ-ment too.”—AS

Golden Galleon34677 Golden Lantern, 949.493.8521, www.danapointharbor.com/Golden.html

NOMINEES: Bella Bazaar • Carmady Street • Chez Nuveen • Fuller’s • Girl in the Curl • Hobie Surf Shop • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • Infi nity Surfboards • Jack’s Surfboards • JunQie’s • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Millie • Monarch Silks Fine Boutique • OC Surf & Sport • Rococo • Sea Styles • The Country Fox • The Downstairs Store • Top Brass • Tutta Bella • West Marine2010 WINNERS: Gold: Golden Galleon; Silver: Doheny Clothing Exchange

• Best Surf Shop •

Killer Dana Surf Shop24621 Del Prado, 949.489.8380, www.killerdana.com

Killer Dana the surf break has been gone since 1966, but the surf shop by the same name seems as popular among surfersas the break ever was. “We’ve been here 20 years. I surf a lot and I surf with all the boys. We’ve got good product in the store,” owner Ralphie Andrews said. “And we’re super-cool to everybody who walks in the store.”

Hobie Surf Shop34174 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.2366, www.hobie.com

NOMINEES: Girl in the Curl • Infi nity Surf Shop • Jack’s Surf Shop • OC Surf & Sport 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Killer Dana; Silver: Hobie Surf Shop

• Best Store to Buy Gifts • for Adults

The Upstairs Store34505 Golden Lantern, 949.661.3787,

www.danapointharbor.com/Upstairs.html

Personalized service and free gift wrapping are just a few of the reasons our readers voted The Upstairs Store the best place to buy gifts for adults. Owner Marla Sherman Balmuth says she also pays careful atten-tion to selecting unique and unusual gifts—

treasures, unlike the usual stuff you fi nd in ordinary gift shops. –AS

Hobie Surf Shop34174 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.2366, www.hobie.com

NOMINEES: About Time Watch Co. • Art Sea • Azalea Salon & Boutique • Bella Bazaar • Browne’s Flowers • Da Vine Food & Wine • Doheny Clothing Exchange •Gift Chateau • Golden Galleon • Hogan’s Bait & Tackle • Infi nity Surfboards • Intimate Obsessions • Jack’s Surf Shop • JunQie’s • Killer Dana • Massage Envy • McCool’s Flowers • Mille Fleurs • The Country Fox • The Downstairs Store • The Woody Hut • Tutta Bella2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Upstairs Store; Silver: The Down-stairs Store

• Best Home Décor • and Furnishings

2nd Hand Treasures34272 Doheny Park Road, 949.218.7962,

www.2ndhandfurnitureandhomedecor.com

Just one year after opening, 2nd Hand Trea-sures scored points for its variety of furniture and dedicated customer service, said Helen Mahshi who owns the business with her husband Ziad Mahshi. “We know it’s all about developing good relationships and honest relationships,” she said. Not just for

antiques, 2nd Hand Treasures also features contemporary pieces and at what Helen Mahshi described as reasonable prices.—SNG

The Upstairs Store34505 Golden Lantern, 949.661.3787,

www.danapointharbor.com/Upstairs.html

NOMINEES: Bella Bazaar • McCool Flowers • McGee Construc-tion and Remodeling • Out of Africa • The Downstairs Store • Timeless Teak • Tutta Bella 2010 WINNERS: Gold: (TIE) The Upstairs Store, Bella Bazaar; Silver: The Downstairs Store

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2nd Hand Treasures’ interior designer Debbie James. Photo by Andrea Swayne


• Best Place to Buy • Flowers

McCool Flowers32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. J,

949.488.7988, www.mccoolfl owers.com

Whether it’s a boutonniere for the formal or bouquet for a wedding, McCool Flowers of-fers it all. “We feel that we have unparalleled service and quality products,” owner Cathy McCool said. The fl orist has earned awards not only for designs, but also community work and environmentally friendly ways. McCool’s creates all styles of arrangements but is known as a tropical specialist, receiving shipments of exotic fl ora weekly.—SNG

Browne’s Flowers31456 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.661.4748,www.brownesfl owers.com

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Dana Point Nursery • Iva Bloom Signature Florist • Ralphs • Tempting Tulips • The Beach Flower • The Flower Girl 2010 WINNERS: Gold: McCool Flowers; Silver: Browne’s Flowers

• Best Overall • Customer Service


Some people take their coffee black, others with cream and sugar. At Coffee Importers in Dana Point Harbor, you get your java with a smile. Owner Jim Miller said customer ser-vice is one of the elements he stresses when hiring and training employees. “We’re always reminding everybody how important the cus-tomer is. Without them, there’s no paycheck,” Miller said. —JV

It’s All About the Cake24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Ste.

B100, 949.240.7100, www.itsallaboutthecake.com

NOMINEES: 2nd Hand Treasures • A’s Burgers • Aegis of Dana Point • Albertsons • Artistry Salon • Aventura Sailing Associa-tions • Azalea Salon & Boutique • Beach Cities Pizza • Beacon Printing • Bella Bazaar • Bon Jour Café • Brio Tuscany Grille • Browne’s Flowers • Cannons Restaurant • Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari • Casanova Restaurant & Cocktail Lounge • Chart House • Chick’s Plumbing Inc • Chronic Tacos • D-Bugged Computers • Dana Point Auto • Dana Point Bodycentre • Dana Point City Hall • Dana Point Cleaners • Dana Point Hardware • Dana Point Marina Inn • Dana Point Pet Grooming • Dana West Yacht Club • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching • Da Vine Food & Wine • Dawgy Style • Dawn’s Day Spa • Doheny Clothing Exchange • El Patio Café • Fitness Together • Ganahl Lumber • Gelson’s • Gemmell’s Restaurant • Gift Chateau • Girl in the Curl • Golden Galleon • Golden Lantern Animal Hospital • Hannegan Plumbing • Harbor Grill • Harpoon Henry’s • Hennessey’s Tavern • Hobie Surf Shop • Hogan Bait and Tackle • Infi nity Surfboards • I Love Bagels • Iva Bloom Signature Florist • J.C. Beans • Jacks Surf Shop • Jig Stop • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Kings Club Barbershop • Laguna Cliffs Marriott • Luciana’s Ristorante • Mahé• Mario’s By the Sea • Marinelli Jewelry • Massage Envy • McCool Flowers • Mille Fleurs • Minuteman Press • Ocean Institute • Pacifi c Cleaners • Pacifi c Sign Center • Peking Dragon • Posh Nails • Proud Mary’s • Rado’s Fitness • Ralphs • RJ’s Café • Royal Cleaners • Ruben Imports • Salon de la Mer • Salon Revelation • Salon Rouge • Scoop Deck Ice Cream at The Coffee Importers • St, Regis • Stacks Pancake House • Stella’s Serious Italian • Smokey’s House of BBQ • Swiss Connection Fine Jewelry and Timepieces • Subway • Sun Salute Yoga • Taco Surf • Thai This • The Beach Flower • The Brigg • The Downstairs Store • The Harbor Grill • The Kings Club Barbershop • The Mint Gallery •

The Ritz-Carlton • The Shwack Beach Grill • The UPS Store • The Upstairs Store • The Wee Loft • The Woody Hut • Threads Dry Cleaning • Tracie Taylor Weddings • Turk’s Restaurant • Tutor & Spunky’s • Tutta Bella • Union Bank • Vivos Fitness • Westwind Sailing Center • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering Cafe and Catering • White Lotus • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: Smokey’s House of BBQ; Silver: Westwind Sailing

• Best Manicure • & Pedicure

Posh Nails24040 Camino Del Avion, Ste. 8, 949.496.7674

Dana Point’s top choice for a professional manicure or pedicure for the fourth year in a row is Posh Nails. The expert staff of friendly technicians and impeccable cleanliness continues to impress. With a wide selection of pampering services and ultra-comfy mas-saging lounge chairs, Posh Nails owner Alice Doan says they make every attempt to spoil their customers. –AS

Salon Rouge34255 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. 117,

949.489.1565, www.salonrougedanapoint.com

NOMINEES: Azalea Salon and Boutique • Dana Skin & Nails • JTC Salon • Judy’s Coiffures • Mylee Salon • Ocean Nails and Spa • Paragon Salon and Day Spa • Pro Nails • Ritz-Carlton Spa • Spa Gaucin at St. Regis • The Spa at Laguna Cliffs • Tic Tac Nails • Top Nails and Hair 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Posh Nails; Silver: Salon Rouge

• Best Hair Salon •

Salon Rouge34255 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. 117,

949.489.1565, www.salonrougedanapoint.com

Whether it be an updo for a party or special occasion, or a complete cut and color you’re looking for, owner Tate Clifton and her experienced staff are ready to deliver expert service at a fair price. The beautifully deco-rated shop also features a small boutique of-fering a selection of fashionable accessories and the very best in hair care products and cosmetics. –AS

Salon Revelation34192 Violet Lantern, 949.248.8595

NOMINEES: Artistry Salon • Azalea Salon and Boutique • Beach Town Salon • Bella Moda Salon • Brenda’s Hair House • Daniel Paul Salon • Ego Salon • Hairmasters • Howard Jones Salon • JTC Salon • Martha’s Beauty Salon • Paragon Salon and Day Spa • Refl ections Salon • Salon Connection • Salon de la Mer • Salon Palisades • Salon Surreal • Supercuts • The Captain’s Chair • Ritz-Carlton Spa • The Spa at Laguna Cliffs Marriott2010 WINNERS: Gold: (TIE) Salon Rouge, Artistry Salon; Silver: Salon Revelation

• Best Barber Shop •

Kings Club Barber Shop

34085 La Plaza, 949.496.4644, www.thekingsclubbarbershop.blogspot.com

Classic cuts, hot towel shaves and great conversation have earned Kings Club Barber-shop the gold medal for three years straight. Since taking over the shop fi ve years ago, owner Mike Swenson and head barber Scott

Young have successfully preserved the look and feel of the classic American barbershop that’s been in business continually since 1963.—AS

Sports Barber34221 Golden Lantern, 949.493.6081, www.sportsbarberdp.com

NOMINEES: Aloha Barber • Azalea Salon • Hairmasters • Martha’s Beauty Salon • Refl ections Salon • The Captain’s Chair2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Kings Club Barbershop; Silver: Sports Barber

• Best Grooming/Pet Care •

Dana Point Grooming & Pet Spa

34102 La Plaza, Ste. B, 949.429.7297,www.danapointgrooming.com

Dana Point Grooming and Pet Spa gives customers and their furry friends the “ul-timate experience,” owner Tamara Muslin said. With more than 15 years of experi-ence, Muslin and her fi ve fellow professional groomers are passionate about their work and treat the pups and pets as if they’re part of the family. The business offers anesthe-sia-free dental cleanings, blueberry facials and other treatments.—SNG

Dawgy Style34085 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.3315

NOMINEES: Beach Dogue • Dana Niguel Veterinary Hospital • Estrella Pet Grooming • Golden Lantern Animal Hospital • Grooming by Jane • Home Town Pet Grooming • OC Happy Tails Dog Grooming • Waggin Wagon Mobile Pet Grooming2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dawgy Style; Silver: Dana Point Grooming and Pet Spa

• Best Gym •

Fitness Together34255 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. 107-108,

949.488.0005, www.fi tnesstogether.com

Fitness Together has made getting healthy a science. For 11 years, trainers have worked one-on-one with customers to assess clients initially, create goals and measure progress at six-week intervals. “We hang on to clients because we show them results,” said Amy Elder, manager and personal trainer. The gym recently started its PACK program for training of up to four people at a time.—SNG

Vivos Fitness24941 Dana Point Harbor Drive,

949.388.7000, http://danapointfi tnessclub.com

NOMINEES: Dana Point Athletic Club • FIT Club • Kardia Life Fitness Center • Palestra Gym • Rado’s Fitness • Reform Pilates • United Studios of Self Defense2010 WINNERS: Gold: Rado’s Fitness; Silver: Fitness Together

• Best Yoga/Pilates •

Sun Salute Yoga24655 La Plaza, 949.371.6097

A neighborhood studio, Sun Salute provides a comfortable, safe place for customers to participate in yoga, said owner Troy Cox. The studio offerings include everything from beginner stretching sessions to power yoga. Those seeking more of workout will fi nd it in the fl ow yoga courses, he said. Sun Salute prides itself on giving customers one-on-one attention. Classes are available daily. —SNG

PCH Pilates and Yoga34085 Pacifi c Hwy., #202, 949.248.1993http://www.pchpilatesandyoga.com

NOMINEES: Dana Point Athletic Club • Diederich Studios • Pacifi c Ashtanga Yoga • Pilates on the Point • Rado’s Fitness • Reform Pilates • Vivos Fitness2010 WINNERS: This category is new for 2011

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Fitness Together’s Matthew Davidson and Amy Elder. Photo by Andrea Swayne


• Best Car Repair •

Dana Point Auto Service34342 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.1086www.danapointautoservice.com

Not just a place for expert auto repair when your car isn’t working, they also offer com-plete maintenance services to keep it in good shape. From checking fl uid levels, tire pres-sure, hoses, belts, to scheduled oil changes they are a trusted provider of their customers’ car care needs. Manager Steve Weinmann says you can fi nd “honesty, integrity and a clean shop” at Dana Point Auto Service.—MB

Rubens Imports34134 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.493.5050,www.rubensimports.com

NOMINEES: Autohaus • Dana Point Foreign Car Service • Dana Point European Repair • Dana Point Hermenez AutoCenter • Luna Auto Repair • Old Town Garage • Pep Boys Auto Parts, Tires and Services • Performance Haus • Dana Point Shell • Sparks Performance • West Coast Tire and Service 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Shell; Silver: Rubens Imports

• Best Spa for Massages, • Facials, Etc.

Massage Envy32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. C,

949.545.0444, www.massageenvy.com

At Massage Envy, the customer comes fi rst. “We try to make them feel like each one of them is special,” said Clinic Manager Darcey Holdt. Employees go out of their way to learn each client’s name, meet their needs and adapt services to any changes, Holdt said. Massage Envy also offers facials, using Murad products that are specially designed for the company. --Stacie N. Galang

Dana Point Bodycentre24629 Del Prado, 949.487.0891,www.danapointbodycentre.com

NOMINEES: Azalea Salon • Dana Skin & Nails • Dawn’s Day Spa • Laguna Cliffs Resort & Spa • Not Just Faces • Pure Clover Skin Spa • Rescue Skin Care & Waxing Studio • Ritz-Carlton Spa • Spa Alana • Spa Gaucin at St. Regis • White Lotus Day Spa 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Bodycentre; Silver: Massage Envy

• Best Dry Cleaners •

Pacifi c Cleaners34098 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.240.2994

For two years running, Pacifi c Dry Cleaners earned props from satisfi ed customers who appreciate their work to spiff them up. Conve-niently located on Pacifi c Coast Highway, the dry cleaners also offer cleaning services for comforters and other household items. Tailor-ing is also available.—SNG

Royal Cleaners34119 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. F, 949.661.0988

NOMINEES: Celebrity Cleaners • Dana Point Cleaners • Elite Cleaners • Monarch Bay Cleaners • Raymar Cleaners • Sunny Fresh Cleaners • Threads Dry Cleaners2010 WINNERS: Gold: Pacifi c Dry Cleaners; Silver: Royal Cleaners

• Best Lodging •

Dana Point Marina Inn24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive,

800.255.6843, www.danapointmarinainn.com

Value and location are two reasons locals love the Dana Point Marina Inn, said General Manager Tony Kaspar. The hotel’s proximity to Dana Point Harbor gives guests unrivaled views and plenty of shopping opportunities. The 136-room inn offers traditional rooms, family suites with kitchenettes and even a beautifully appointed honeymoon suite with a jacuzzi. Families enjoy the hotel for wed-dings and reunions. —SNG

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

25135 Park Lantern, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com

NOMINEES: Blue Lantern Inn • Doubletree Suites by Hilton Doheny Beach • Holiday Inn Express • St. Regis Monarch Beach • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa; Silver: The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

• Best Full-Service Jeweler •

Swiss Connection Fine Jewelry and Watches

32565 Golden Lantern, Ste. A, 949.488.0900, www.jeanjacquesmamie.com

After 20 years, Swiss Connection has earned its reputation for quality work one customer at a time. Owner and jeweler Jean-Jacques Mamie brings to the business watch making training from his native Switzerland and certifi cation from the Gemological Institute of America, said his wife and owner Nina Mamie. Bench jeweler Jeremy Cisneros, also a GIA gemologist, designs jewelry, sets stones and makes repairs. “People trust us,” she said. —SNG

Marinelli Fine Jewelry12 Monarch Bay Drive, 949.443.4030

NOMINEES: About Time Watches & Other Luxuries • Dana Point Jeweler • Harbor Jeweler Jean-Jacques Mamie Fine Jewelry • PCH Jewelers 2010 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2011

• Best Place to • Take Out-of Towners

Dana Point Harbor34624 Golden Lantern, 949.923.2255, www.danapointharbor.com

Always a hub of activity, Dana Point Harbor draws both visitors and locals with their out-of-town guests. Sights, sounds, shop-ping, special events and restaurants bring thousands of people a year to the harbor. For more than 40 years, it’s truly been a spot with something for everyone. The harbor also features attractions like the Ocean Insti-tute, the marina with slips for 2,500 vessels and Baby Beach. —SNG

Ocean Institute24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive,

949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org

NOMINEES: Agostino’s Ristorante & Bar • Baby Beach • Bella Bazaar • Blue Lantern Gazebo • Bonjour Café & Bistro • Brio Tuscany Grille • Cannons Restaurant • Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari • Chart House • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • Dana Point Nature Interpretive Cen-ter • Dana Point Jet Ski • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching • Da Vine Food and Wine • Doheny State Beach • Downstairs Store • El Torito • Golden Galleon • Headlands Nature Preserve • Heritage Park • Hogan’s Bait and Tackle • It’s All About the Cake • Jack’s Restaurant • Killer Dana Surf Shop • Kings Club Barber Shop • Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa • Luciana’s Ristorante • Mahé • Massage Envy • Monarch Bay Beach Club • Palisades Gazebo • PCH Rides • Proud Mary’s • Ristorante Ferrantelli • RJ’s Café • Salt Creek Beach • Strand Beach • Strand Vista Park • St. Regis Monarch Beach • Sunsets Capo Beach • The Harbor Grill • The Coffee Importers • The Downstairs Store • The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel • The Shwack Beach Grill • The Wee Loft • Tutor and Spunky’s Deli • Turk’s Restaurant • Westwind Sailing • What a Dish Café & Catering Cafe and Catering Cafe and Catering • Wind & Sea2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Harbor; Silver: Ocean Institute

• Best Beach •

Dana Strand BeachAccess from Strand Vista Park at

34201 Selva Road, 949.923.2280, www.ocparks.com

The gorgeous stretch of beach below Strand Vista Park has taken this year’s gold medal for best Dana Point Beach. Although the beach is owned by the county, the city maintains three of the fi ve new pathways down to the sand—including a funicular

inclined elevator. Beachgoers can also access the beach via two paths through the beauti-ful Headlands development during posted daylight hours.—AS

Salt Creek Beach33333 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.923.2280,www.ocparks.com/saltcreekbeach

NOMINEES: Baby Beach • Capistrano Beach (Hole in the Fence) • Doheny State Beach • Monarch Beach 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Salt Creek Beach; Silver: Dana Strand Beach

• Best Surf Break •

Salt Creek Beach33333 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.923.2280,www.ocparks.com/saltcreekbeach

Salt Creek Beach has long attracted surf-ers from Southern California and beyond. Although the break offers something for most skill levels, it is not generally regarded as a place for beginners. Long lefts peeling from the point offer long rides and the rights out front—although usually fast and steep—often hollow out providing thrilling barrel rides for the more advanced surfers.—AS

Doheny State Beach25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.6172

NOMINEES: Dana Strand Beach • Gravels • Heroins (Monarch Bay Point) • Killer Dana 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Salt Creek Beach; Silver: Dana Strand Beach


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Dana Point Marina Inn General Manager Tony Kaspar. Photo by Andrea Swayne

• Best Park •

Lantern Bay Park25111 Park Lantern Road, 949.248.3557, www.danapoint.org

For a fun and/or relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, Lantern Bay Park is just the place. With an ocean view, spacious grass and picnic tables, locals and visitors alike feel right at home in the out-doors. Kids can enjoy the park’s playground and nearby basketball courts are available for a quick pick up game among friends. —MB

Pines Park 34941 Camino Capistrano, 949.248.3557, www.danapoint.org

NOMINEES: Capistrano Beach Park • Creekside Park • Dana Crest Park • Dana Point Harbor • Dana Point Headlands • Dana Wood • Del Obispo Park • Doheny State Park • Heritage Park • Salt Creek Beach Park • Sea Canyon Park • Sea Terrace Com-munity Park • Sea View Park • Shipwreck Park • Strand Vista Park •Sunset Park • Thunderbird Park2010 WINNERS: Gold: Pines Park; Silver: Heritage Park

• Best City Event •

Concerts in the Park949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org

Family friendly, free and al fresco, Dana Point’s Concerts in the Park have been enter-taining locals for two decades. The Sunday summer series of songs draws hundreds of picnickers and music lovers to enjoy the out-door tunes. Every year, the city books a wide variety of acts to please all types. Concerts run from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. but arrive early to get a prime spot.—SNG

Festival of Whales949.496.5794, www.festivalofwhales.com

NOMINEES: 4th of July Fireworks Display • Boat Parade of Lights • California Wine Festival • Dana Point Chamber of Commerce Turkey Trot • Dana Point Concours d’Elegance • Dana Point’s Farmers Market • Dana Point Grand Prix of Cycling • Dana Point Jazz Festival( ?????) • Dana Point Lobster Fest • Dana Point Movies in the Park • Dana Point Symphony • Doheny Blues Festival • Doheny Days • Festival of Whales • Ocean Institute Artist by the Sea • Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle • Relay for Life • Ritz-Carlton Tree Lighting • Surf-A-Rama • Taste of Brews • Toshiba Tall Ships Festival • Wag-A-Thon2010 WINNERS: Gold: Concerts in the Park; Silver: Festival of Whales Parade

• Best Wedding Venue •

Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

25135 Park Lantern, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com

Excited engaged couples planning their big day should defi nitely consider Laguna Cliffs as their special spot to tie the knot. With lovely harbor and ocean views, expansive ballrooms and beautiful balconies, Laguna Cliffs offers a wide variety of venues for ceremonies, receptions, dining, dancing and socializing. And the great year-round Dana Point weather is an added bonus.—MB

The Ritz-CarltonOne Ritz-Carlton Drive, 949.240.2000,www.ritzcarlton.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • Blue Lantern Ga-zebo • Blue Lantern Inn • Cannons Restaurant • Chart House • Dana Point Yacht Club • Dana West Yacht Club • Heritage Park • Lantern Bay Park • Ocean Institute • Palisades Gazebo Park • Pines Park •Salt Creek Grille • South Shores Church • St. Regis Monarch Beach 2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Ritz-Carlton; Silver: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa

• Best Yacht Club •

Dana West Yacht Club24601 Dana Drive, 949.661.1185, www.dwyc.org

With memberships offered to boat own-ers and non-boat owners alike, Dana West Yacht Club prides itself on offering fun for everyone. If you’re looking for a place to meet new friends, enjoy sailing, racing or just cruising—whether you own a boat or not—DWYC is the little yacht club for big fun on the water. The club even offers kids’ sailing classes. —MB

Dana Point Yacht Club24399 Dana Drive, 949.496.2900, www.dpyc.org

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Point Yacht Club; Silver: Dana West Yacht Club

• Best Tackle Shop •

Hogan’s Bait & Tackle34320 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. G, 949.493.3528

Hogan’s Bait & Tackle is a friendly, family run shop with a large selection of everything needed by anglers of all levels. From families introducing the kids to fi shing to expert deep-sea anglers, Hogan’s has what you need. Employee Ron West says service is what makes the store great. “We’re all really friendly here and everyone is willing to talk to you,” he said.—MB

Jig Stop Tackle and Tours

34186 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., 949.496.3555, www.jigstop.com

NOMINEES: Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • West Marine2010 WINNERS: Gold: Jig Stop Tackle and Tours; Silver: Hogan’s Bait and Tackle

• Best Harbor •Recreation/Excursion

Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching

34675 Golden Lantern, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com

For over 40 years Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching has played a big part in making happy memories for thousands of anglers and whale watchers. General Man-ager Donna Kalez also offers special themed events—like music cruises and the new Art Lessons in the Wild with Wyland—as well as events directly benefi tting local charities.—AS

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Safari

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com

NOMINEES: Aventura Sailing Association • Captain Ken’s Underwater Connection • Catalina Express • Curlew Charters • Dana Point Jet Ski & Kayak Center• Dana Wharf Boat Rides with Santa • Ocean Institute R/V Sea Explorer • Westwind Sailing • Wheel Fun Rentals2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching; Silver: Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari

• Best Yacht/ •Boat Maintenance

Outbound Yacht Services Inc.

34241 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Ste. 201, 949.488.0652,www.outboundyachtservices.com

No need to worry if you fi nd a glitch or scratch on your vessel, Outbound Yacht Services is here to help. Outbound offers every service to keep your boat shipshape. From electron-ics, heating and plumbing to watermarks and troubleshooting complex problems, Outbound has it covered.—MB

� e: Aqua Tech Yacht Services

29541 Seahorse Cove, Laguna Niguel, 949.466.3156, www.aquatechyacht.com

� e: Mission Hull 24681 Aquilla Drive, 949.493.2321

NOMINEES: Capistrano Marine • Captain Choice • Captains Crew • Dana Point Marine Services • Dana Point Shipyard • Dana Point Yacht Maintenance • Dana Wharf Sportfi shing & Whale Watching • Nordhavn • Ocean Diving Service • Philip McSherry Refrigeration Air Conditioning & Heating • Ricardo’s Boat Service • Ryan and Son • Topsiders Boat Maintenance •Yacht Ready Consultants 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Outbound Yacht Services; Silver: Dana Point Shipyard

• Best Hull and Bottom • Cleaner

Dolphin Divers24382 Caracas St., 949.661.6878

Dolphin Divers offers the best in cleaning services at a good price and now has its third straight gold medal to prove it. Employee Shelly Barnett says they strive for perfection in all they do, and it seems local boat owners agree. Consistency and quality are a given when you place your boat in the hands of Dolphin Divers.—MB

Dana Harbor Marine Service949.493.6762

NOMINEES: Bare Bottoms Boat Cleaning • Captain’s Crew • Dana Point Yacht Maintenance • Dana Point Shipyard • Easley Enterprises • Ed Reiner Diving • Mission Hull • Ocean Diving Services • Scuba Duba 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Dolphin Divers; Silver: Ed Reiner Diving

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Dana Wharf Sportfi shing and Whale Watching. Photo by Andrea Swayne


SUDOKUby Myles Mellor

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

Last week’s solution:

SOLUTIONSOLUTIONSOLUTIONSOLUTION

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.4PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP LIVING

Women who are not married are treated like second class citizens, and are judged harshly. A common thought is that they don’t have what it takes to keep a man; no one wants them, etc.

“When it comes to family, if there are young children or even older children, you can’t introduce the person as a husband or wife, and the young children wonder, just what are you then? This is especially a problem if the extended fam-ily has faith beliefs that do not condone cohabitation.

“So you might really care about these children, but in the eyes of the fam-ily, you are not the aunt, and you are not called Aunt Maggie, you are just awkwardly referred to as Jack’s friend Maggie, when you are much, much more than a friend. You cannot build a close relationship because they don’t recognize you as family....you are just that woman that lives or shacks up with Uncle Jack.”

Comment from Tom: As a columnist, I strive to present both sides of issues and keep my opinions about what people say to a minimum. However, I have to men-tion that I strongly disagree with several of Billie’s points.

I smile, however, remembering that a few years back, a caller to the Dr. Laura show asked Dr. Laura her opinion about me, the love-after-50-columnist, living with Greta without being married. Dr. Laura said “She’s his shack-up honey.” I couldn’t thank Dr. Laura enough; I sold 53 extra copies of my “Finding Love After 50” book on Amazon that week.

Billie continued, “Introductions are also awkward, and I have found people don’t get it, they look kind of blank and married women quickly move away, suspicious.

Comment from Tom: Perhaps Billie meant “jealous,” instead of “suspicious.”

The Cow or the Milk Debate Continues No Matter Age

ne of the hottest topics among older singles is the

marriage vs. cohabitation debate. Today, five women share their opinions.

Jennifer, Laguna Niguel stated, “Marriage is a personal and economic unit whose main goal is to provide a stable home

in which to raise children. Two people can do a better job of this than one. Older people who often have grown children have already completed this task. They do not need to nail down a reproductive agree-ment.

“Older people have often spent a lifetime working and accumulating assets and they frequently like to keep their finances sepa-rate. Many want their children or grand-children to be their sole heirs. Marriage or re-marriage can interfere with this inheri-tance plan or complicate it. Sometimes, it’s simpler to remain single, even while living together.

“Older couples who live together benefit from the closeness and companionship of a live-in partner, and probably live longer too. They can pool their money and talents, which means they will probably enjoy an enhanced lifestyle together.

“Those who, for religious or other rea-sons, are uncomfortable with this arrange-ment can still get married.”

Billie, not her true name, South Orange County, feels people who cohabitate endure the disapproval of others. She said, “I believe women are especially treated awful by society, relatives, and friends with snide comments like, why would he buy the cow when he can get the milk for free. Also, they will come straight out and tell you that you are being used, and if your man really loved you he would make it legal.

O

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50

By Tom Blake

She ended with: “If a man and woman really love each other, no matter what age, they should get married. It’s a matter of respect for each other. Why in the world, if you meet your soul mate, wouldn’t you say YES, let’s get married! I don’t get it.”

Judith, formerly of Irvine, now living in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is another cow/milk advocate: “I’m 71, and still tend to go with, “Don’t give away the milk for free until he buys the cow,” Personally, I would never cohabitate.”

Perhaps Kim, Dana Point, has the mar-riage vs. cohabitation answer: “Eleven and a half years ago, mutual friends set up Chuck and me on a blind date. The date went well; he asked if he could call me. I said yes. But he never called.

“A year later, our mutual friend got married and both of us were invited to the wedding at the Hotel Laguna. At the reception (assigned tables), I saw him sitting at my table. My first thought was to sit at a different table but then I thought ‘Be a good sport.’

I gave him a little punch on the shoul-der and said ‘Hey, you never called me!’ He pulled out the chair next to him and said ‘sit down.’ Then he said ‘I’m sorry I never called but it just wasn’t a good time for me’ and I said, ‘Come to think of it, it

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

wasn’t for me either.” We spent the night dancing and we’ve been together ever since. We will celebrate our 11th anniver-sary next July 27th!

“The secret to our success: We don’t want to get married and we don’t want to live together! We live about five minutes apart so we see each other often in just the right doses!”

Dr. Kelly Musick, a Cornell University Associate Professor, published a six-year study on marriage vs. cohabitation in the Journal of Marriage and Family in 2011. One of her conclusions: “...while married couples experienced health gains-likely linked to the formal benefits of marriage such as shared healthcare plans-cohabi-tating couples experienced greater gains in happiness and self-esteem. For some, cohabitation may come with fewer un-wanted obligations than marriage and allow for more flexibility, autonomy, and personal growth.’”

So that’s it. Do you want the cow, or just the milk?

Tom Blake is a Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. To comment on his column, email him at [email protected]. See his website at www.FindingLoveAfter50.com. DP

DPDana Point

BUSINESS DIRECTORYLocals Only

The only directory featuring Dana Point businesses exclusively

Jim Ettinger Design 949.246.022433742 Big Sur St., [email protected] Associates-Raymond J. Nona A.I.A 949.496.227526901 Camino de Estrella, www.raynona.com

ARCHITECTURE - PLANNING

Oasis Air Conditioning & Heating 949.420.132131648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

Corinne Rupert PhD, PsyD, MFT 949.488.264833971 Selva Rd. Ste. 125, www.danapointpsychotherapy.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY

Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com

PLUMBING

Beacon Printing - Brad & Judy Brandmeier 24681 La Plaza, Ste. 125 [email protected] OC 949.388.488827134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PRINT SHOP

Prudential California Realty, Shirley Tenger www.tengerteam.com 949.487.7700Surterre Properties Monarch Beach, 949.464.3243 McDaniel Gilmore Group33522 Niguel Rd. Ste. 100, Monarch Beach 92629www.mcdanielgilmoregroup.com

REAL ESTATE - RESIDENTIAL

ABC Signs & Embroidery Shop 949.248.100734135 Pacific Coast Hwy, Ste. E, www.abcembroideryshop.com

EMBROIDERY

MUSIC INSTRUCTIONKenny’s Music & Guitars 949.661.398424731 La Plaza, www.kennysmusicstore.com

Sunburst Landscaping 949.632.0081www.sunlandscape.webs.com 949.493.3670

LANDSCAPING/SPRINKLERS

Dana Point Lock & Security 949.496.6919www.danapointlock.com

LOCKSMITH

San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025163 Avenida Victoria, [email protected]

PRESCHOOLS

Patricia Powers 949.496.1900License#0737080, [email protected]/Elaine LaVine 949.240.894434080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.netState Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.320034085 Pacific Coast Hwy. #204www.tedbowersox.com

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Coffee Importers Scoop Deck 949.493.777334531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

ICE CREAM

Fit Club - Boot Camp 949.831.7984www.afitclub.com

FITNESS PROGRAMS

Mobile Salon Malina 949.500.2909www.salonmalina.com The Captain’s Chair 949.496.195720 Monarch Bay Plaza, www.thecaptainschairdp.comParagon Salon 949.489.195534161 Pacific Coast Hwy.

HAIR SALONS

Dana Point Jeweler 949.489.116524845 Del Prado, www.danapointjeweler.com

JEWELER

Rocky Taylor Landscaping [email protected]

LANDSCAPING

Green Dump Truck 949.697.4517www.greendumptruck.com

JUNK REMOVAL

Ocean Academy 949.218.4464www.oceanacademy4u.com

JUNIOR WATERMAN PROGRAM

RESTAURANTSBrio Tuscany Grille 949.443.147624050 Camino Del Avion, www.briorestaurant.com

UPHOLSTERY

English Tutoring by Susan 949.481.0481Mathnasium 949.388.655532411 Golden Lantern, Ste. Q, www.mathnasium.com

TUTORING

Dana Point Upholstery 949.240.229224402 Del PradoJeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.956934118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

SURF SHOPSInfinity Surfboards 949.661.669924382 Del Prado, www.infinitysurf.comJack’s Surfboards 949.276.808034320 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jackssurfboards.com

Jeddy’s Yacht & Home Interiors 949.240.956934118 Pacific Coast Hwy, www.jeddys.com

WINDOW COVERINGS

Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

WINDOW CLEANING

Ocean Academy 949.218.4464www.oceanacademy4u.com

SURF LESSONS

Sun Salute Yoga Studio 949.371.609724655 La Plaza, Ste. A, www.sunsaluteyoga.com

YOGA

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BEAUTY SALONS

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

ELECTRICAL

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COFFEE SHOP

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CATERING

Coffee Importers Espresso Bar 949.493.777334531 Golden Lantern, www.coffeeimporters.com

CAFE - DELI

Dana Point Dental 949.661.566434080 Golden Lantern, Ste 201, www.danapointdental.com

DENTISTS

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

COSMETICS

Creative Environments Construction 949.496.3728Design & Build #464468

CONTRACTORS - GENERAL

San Clemente Computer & Network [email protected] 949.276.1581

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

Christian Science Services 949.661.315134102 La Plaza

CHRISTIAN CHURCHES

Ocean Ranch Chiropractic 949.584.5000Dr. James Slusher & Dr. Ron Berman, 32585 Golden Lantern, Ste. H, www.oceanranchchiropractic.comPacific Waves Family Chiropractic 949.436.2926 & Alternative Healthcare24632 San Juan, Ste. 230, www.pacific-waves.com

CHIROPRACTORS

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COINS

AUTO REPAIRDana Point Auto 949.496.108634342 Coast Hwy., Unit B, Dana Point, Ca 92629

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DPDana Point

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!E-mail your garage sale to

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SAT FEB 11TH STARTING AT 7:30 AMHuge garage Sale.. 20 Families participating located in the community of Mira Costa in San Clemente around the corner from Big Lots....items include tools, mountain bikes, stereo, electronics, patio/home/baby furniture, tools, golf balls, TVs, Coca cola memorabilia, motor cycles, clothes for the whole family come one come all

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GARAGE SALES

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Dana Hills Athletes Commit at National Signing Day Ceremony By Andrea Swayne

Dana Point Times

ational Signing Day, February 1, was a proud day for Dana Hills High School as 15 of the school’s

top student athletes signed letters of intent and offi cially announced their colleges and universities of choice.

Athletic Director Matt Reid said he couldn’t be prouder of the caliber of stu-dents who took part in the event.

“We’re very proud of all of our athletes and believe every one will represent our school very well,” he said.

With proud parents looking on from the gym bleachers, each athlete had their own individual moment in the spotlight as they sat with Principal Jason Allemann to ink their commitments.

N

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS& OUTDOORS

DPDana Point

Dolphin Report:S P O R T S N E W S F R O M D A N A H I L L S H I G H S C H O O L

By David Zimmerle

BOYS BASKETBALL • The Dolphins (1-6 SCL, 11-13) couldn’t contain the El Toro Chargers on February 3, losing 68-46 on the road. Dana Hills trailed in all four quarters of play as Hayden Fredrick led the team with 16 points while Cory Blau netted 12 points.

The team next traveled to take on Capo Valley on February 7 before closing out the regular season on the road against cross-town rival San Clemente. Next 7 days: N/A

GIRLS BASKETBALL • After losing 54-39 on January 28 to the girls from Wood-bridge High, the Lady Dolphins (1-6 SCL, 10-14) had a break in their schedule but picked up action on the court with a home game against El Toro on February 6. The

team then traveled to take on Mission Viejo in their fi nal game of the regular season on February 8. Next 7 days: N/A

BOYS SOCCER • The Dolphins (2-2-3 SVL, 6-7-7) played under some slight pressure, performed well and pulled off a 3-1 road win against Capo Valley on February 3. The team then closed out the regular season at home in a match against San Juan Hills on February 9. Next 7 days: Feb. 9 vs. *San Juan Hills, 3:15 p.m.

GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Dolphins (5-1-1 SVL, 12-5-1) couldn’t make it two wins in a row after the girls tied Capo Valley, 1-1, on January 31. Emma Gullickson found the back of the net

Gauchos vs. Anteaters, Bren Events CenterFebruary 15, 7 p.m.

UC Irvine’s men’s basketball team gets back to conference play as the Anteaters host a battle royale against UC Santa Barbara. Info: www.ucirvinesports.com

5 BEST BETSStallions vs. Dolphins,Dana Hills HighFebruary 9, 3:15 p.m.

The Dolphins hit the pitch one last time this regular season as Dana Hills seeks out a Sea View League win against San Juan Hills.Info: www.dhhs.net

Dolphins vs. Tritons,San Clemente HighFebruary 9, 7 p.m.

With bragging rights always on the line in this match up, Dana Hills travels to take on cross-town rival San Clemente in its fi nal game of the regular season.Info: www.dhhs.net

CIF Team Championships, Villa Park HighFebruary 11, 11 a.m.

With the postseason in full swing, the Dolphins are looking for more suc-cess on the big stage as Dana Hills hits the mat for CIF Team Champion-ships.Info: www.dhhs.net

BOYS SOCCER BOYS BASKETBALL WRESTLING COLLEGE BASKETBALL HOCKEY

Coyotes vs. Kings,Staples CenterFebruary 16, 7:30 p.m.

After playing through six games on the road, the Los Angeles Kings skate to center ice for a hard-hitting contest with the Phoenix Coyotes.Info: kings.nhl.com


for Dana Hills with the team’s lone goal of the game. And, Megan Dickmann totaled four saves at goal.

The team went on to host San Juan Hills in its fi nal game of the regular sea-son on February 8. Next 7 days: N/A

GIRLS WATER POLO • The Lady Dolphins (7-0 SVL, 16-12) closed out the regular season as Sea View League champions after throttling Mission Viejo with a 15-4 loss on February 3. Emily Carlson led Dana Hills with fi ve goals, Taylor Brower had four, Amanda Ander-son had a hat trick of three goals and Allison Leibold fi nished with two.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the team’s post-season schedule of games. Next 7 days: N/A

WRESTLING • The Dolphins wrestling team couldn’t put up enough points to take home the Sea View League title after fi nishing in second place with 182 points behind fi rst place Aliso Niguel (187 points) on February 4 at Laguna Hills High. The league fi nals win was the fi rst-ever captured by the Wolverines in the school’s history. Aliso Niguel also set school records for most league champions (5) and CIF-SS qualifi ers (13), while Dana Hills crowned seven champions and had all 14 of its wrestlers qualify for the CIF-SS Eastern Divisional, slated for Feb. 17-18 at Oak Hills High School in Hesperia.

Next 7 days: Feb. 11 at CIF Team Championships, 9:30 a.m.

Commitments were signed as follows: Hunter Briggs (football) Fort Lewis College; Emily Carlson (waterpolo) UC Irvine; Drake Dunn (waterpolo) UC Irvine; Dylan Eisner (baseball) Emory University; Lynsey Gaines (soccer) Port-land State University; Sheridan Gomez (cross country, track and fi eld) UC Santa Barbara; Lauren Hart (soccer) Vander-bilt University; Ethan Lawrence (cross country) Cal Poly San Luis Obispo; Blaklee McMillen (soccer) South Dakota State University; Alex Rainey (lacrosse) Adams State University; Matthew Romano (football) South Dakota State University; Danielle Spriggs (soccer) Rice University; Victoria Usgaard (track and fi eld) UC Santa Barbara; Tyler Wi-lemon (football) University of Northern Colorado and Erica Young (soccer) University of Hawaii Manoa. DP

Fifteen Dana Hills High student athletes signed letters of intent on National Signing Day. Photo by Alan Gibby/Zone57.com

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITYDP SURF

6DPDana Point

Age: 10, Concordia Elementary

Gus Day’s natural surfing talent shines on both long and shortboards. “I like longboarding for the feel you get on the nose and I love to hang heel. But shortboarding is fun too,” Gus said. He credits his skill to the help of dad Gavin, brother Gunner and uncle, pro long-boarder Josh Constable and thanks his other uncle Garth Day for making his boards. Gus is also a great basketball player. As point guard of his Boys & Girls Club team, his talent on the court earned him the league MVP award last season. Should his athletic skills lead to a career as a professional athlete, Gus says it would be cool but he’s definitely not chasing fame. “A lot of kids want to be famous and I’m just not into that. I kind of just want to cruise, surf, get a good job that pays good money and keep a low profile,” Gus said. “If I get good enough to play pro basketball I’d want to be on the Harlem Globetrot-

ters.” Gus also plays drums and says he doesn’t like to just bang on them and throw the sticks around like a lot of rock drummers. He prefers the beats of his favorite type of music, reggae and ska. “At the last Lowers Pro Jordy Smith gave me his board,” said Gus recalling how he met one of his favorite pro surfers. “I think he was just mad that he lost and wanted to give it to a kid; but it was still really cool.” —Andrea Swayne

GROM OF THE WEEK Gus Day

Nate Yeomans Conquers PipeBy Andrea Swayne

Dana Point Times

an Clemente’s Nathan Yeomans was the only non-Hawaiian surfer still in the game at the February 1 ASP 5-Star Vol-

com Pipe Pro finals on Oahu’s North Shore. After a string of standout heats in huge

conditions and a wipeout that inflicted some serious reef rash on his back, Yeoman’s

S

battled through to claim the fourth-place spot at the podium.

In a post-contest ASP interview Yeomans called his result a great confidence boost and the best moment in competitive surfing he’s had. “To make the final was such an honor,” he said.

The top three spots were claimed by Ha-waiians John John Florence, Jamie O’Brien and Kai Barger, respectively. DP

Gus Day. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Nathan Yeomans on his way to a fourth place finish at the Volcom Pipe Pro. Photo courtesy Volcom/Bielmann

RESULTS

NSSA Southwest Explorer Event No. 5, Janu-ary 14, Huntington Beach, Pier

Local finishers only. MEN: 2. Josh Benjoya, Dana Point. JUNIORS: 2. Brandon Hawkins, San Clemente. SUPER GROMS: 3. Crosby Colapinto, San Clemente; 4. Ethan Mudge, Capistrano Beach; 5. Ryan Martin, San Clemente; 6. Hagan Johnson, San Clemente. WOMEN: 3. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente. GIRLS: 2. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente. WOMEN (MAKE-UP FROM EVENT NO. 4): 2. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com for full results.

UPCOMING EVENTS

February 11: NSSA Southwest Conference Explorer Event No. 6, Oceanside, South JettyFebruary 12: NSSA Southwest Conference Explorer Event No. 7, Oceanside, South JettyFebruary 11-12: O’Neill Surfing America Prime Event No. 4, San Onofre, Upper TrestlesFebruary 18-19: WSA Gatorade Champion-ship Tour Event No. 7, Huntington Beach, PierFebruary 18-19: NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 9, Ventura, C StreetFebruary 25: SSS Orange County Middle School Event No. 3, Oceanside, PierMarch 3-4: WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach

Capo Beach Artists, Surfers Work on Display at Ritz-Carlton

The artwork of Capistrano Beach surf-ers, and brothers, Joe Aaron and Jordan Thomas is on display now through March 31 at the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, One Ritz-Carlton Drive in Dana Point.

Top professional longboarder Joe Aaron (20), is known for his innovative style on the waves as well as on canvas. His color-ful art, surfboards and fins sold under his JoeMotion brand reflect an edgy/hip style that is cool, contemporary, mod and retro, all rolled into one.

Jordan Thomas (17) has been creating contemporary and abstract works of art since the age of 7 and was recently a fea-tured artist at the 2011 Philharmonic House of Design. His work includes dreamlike landscapes, nature and pure abstraction in vibrant color.

Their work can be viewed seven days a week in the hotel’s Ambassador Hall as part of the “Wonders of the World” art exhibit.

For information on the Ritz-Carlton, see www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Lagu-naNiguel. Visit the artists’ websites: www.JoeMotion.com and www.JordanThoma-sArt.com. DP —AS

Dana Point Times

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