L O C A L N E W S Y O U C A N U S EM A R C H 2– 8 , 2 0 1 2

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 9

www.danapointtimes.com

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

SDG&E Warns of Burglars Posing as

Employees EYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Dana Hills’ Melbon Fired in

Kickback SchemeEYE ON DP/PAGE 3

Festival of Whales Kicks Off

March 3 DP LIVING/PAGE 9

Embarcadero Marina Dock Master Ken Stetson has become a leader and mentor for California marinas seeking Clean Marina Certifi cation. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Vintage Marina Partners’ Ken Stetson is a leader among Clean Marina consultants

Dock Master Inspires Clean Marinas

E Y E O N D P/ PAG E 4

File photo by Mike Betzler

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 March 2–8, 2012 Page 3

City and Business Calendar

SATURDAY, MARCH 3

Farmers Market 9 a.m.–1 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza Street. Admis-sion is free. For more information or to inquire about purchasing a booth for $25, please call 949.573.5033 or 951.271.0669. www.danapoint.org

TUESDAY, MARCH 6

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. City Council Chambers, 33282, Golden Lantern, 949.248.3501, www.dan-apoint.org.

Toastmasters 7 p.m. Dana Point Harbor Toastmas-ters meets every Tuesday at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.2275, www.danaharbor.freetoasthost.ws

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7

Sunrise Rotary Club 7 a.m. The Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary Club will meet at the Boys & Girls Club, 1 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.2759, www.Monarch-BeachRotary.com

FRIDAY, MARCH 9

Dana Point Symphony 7:30 p.m. Music by Mendelssohn, Wieniawski and Sarasate, featuring Lindsay Deutsch on violin. The internation-ally-acclaimed U.S. Naval Academy Women’s Glee Club will also appear. A reception and exhibition of visual art by John Hall will be held imme-diately following. $12 for adults, $8 students under 16, seniors over 65 and military with ID. St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, www.danapointsymphony.com.

DPDana Point

THE LATEST: San Diego Gas & Electric is alerting customers to be aware of people who recently posed as a SDG&E employee and asked to enter a customer’s home.

The utility said reports included that the imposter distracted unsuspecting custom-ers while performing “routine inspec-tions,” while another imposter burglarized the home.

Dana Point Chief of Police Services Lt. Mark Levy said, that while no such inci-dences have been reported in Dana Point, his department and the city are broadcast-ing the warning to ensure citizens are aware of this danger.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as they say,” said Levy.

In a statement, SDG&E reminded cus-tomers that all SDG&E employees carry the proper identification when called out to any job and asked customers to ensure they verify the employee’s proper uniform and identification before letting anyone in their home.

The utility also noted that SDG&E often hires contractors to complete smart meter work or provides information on energy efficiency programs, but contractors will never ask customers to leave their home for any reason.

WHAT’S NEXT: Those who are suspi-cious can call SDG&E at 1.800.411.7343 to ensure that work is currently being conducted in their area.

FIND OUT MORE: Log on to www.dan-apointtimes.com for additional tips from SDG&E regarding other types of fraudu-lent activity or call 1.800.411.7343. —JV

…a Safety Alert?5THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District Trustees on Monday fired three current or former football coaches, includ-ing Dana Hills’ Brent Melbon, in the wake of allegations they spent secret money from an athletic-supplier slush fund.

Trustees also said the district will seek restitution from the coaches, including former Capistrano Valley High coach Chi Chi Biehn and San Clemente’s Eric Patton.

Trustees did not publicly identify the teachers other than with their employee numbers. They also did not comment on the decision, which came after a 90-minute closed door session.

Aside from reporters, the only per-son in the audience when the vote was announced was Teresa Sando, who has worked to bring the “slush fund” issue before public since she and her husband Geoff discovered them in paperwork from Lapes Athletic Team Sales, which they took over. Patton appeared the CUSD headquarters before the meeting began, but left before trustees took the dais.

The three had been on leave from their teaching positions. Melbon resigned from his coaching post at Dana Hills in 2010. He is often credited with working with USC standout Matt Barkley in a junior football program.

WHAT’S NEXT: CUSD spokesman Marcus Walton said he was unsure how much restitution the district wants. Sando said Patton’s figure alone could be more than $100,000.

Eric N. Hansen, Patton’s attorney, told the board in a 12-page letter that the district’s investigation was flawed. He said many of the allegations included supposed violations of policies that were not even in place when the events occurred.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Depart-

… High School Coaches?1

….A FPPC Warning?3

THE LATEST: South Coast Water District directors in February declined to enter an exclusive negotiating contract with a developer who wants to move the Post Of-fice sorting facility on Del Prado to water district land off Stonehill Drive.

Majestic Housing & Development owns the land next to the Post Office and wants to buy that land, too, for a new project. The Post Office is open to moving its sorting facility to the 30-acre water district parcel on Stonehill Drive, Majestic’s Peggy Tabas said, while the retail opera-tion would remain downtown.

But district officials, concerned about tying up the land in the lease for as long as 30 years, said they did not have enough information to vote on the matter and delayed it to March.

The district makes about $700,000 a year on various leases on the Stonehill property.

WHAT’S NEXT: Tabas said the Postal Ser-vice will be listing its Dana Point property for sale “in the very near future.” She said her company expected to put in a bid on

…A Post Office Move?4

…Kmart?2THE LATEST: These days, Kmart could say the more things change, the more they stay the same.

The discount department store on Camino de Estrella, at the Capistrano Beach-San Clemente border, reopened as a Kmart February 27 after about seven years as a Sears Essential Store, said Kmart spokeswoman Kimberly Freely.

“We listened to our customers’ prefer-ence concerning product offerings and determined they preferred the store as a Kmart location,” she said.

The store is one of 100 Kmart stores in California, Freely said. The vast majority of employees from the Sears Essential were rehired for the Kmart, Freely said. Sears owns the Kmart chain.

WHAT’S NEXT: The store expects to have a grand opening some time in mid-March, but a date has not been set.

FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.kmart.com. —Stacie N. Galang

THE LATEST: Dana Point Councilwoman Lisa Bartlett was among 40 elected officials countywide who received warning letters from the Fair Political Practices Commis-sion for voting on their own appointments to commissions that pay a stipend.

Although voting on such appointments was common for decades, the FPPC re-cently decided it was improper for council members to vote on their own appoint-

the land in May.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.scwd.org. —JV

ment has also been investigating the issue.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.danapoint-times.com. —Jonathan Volzke

ments to boards that pay more than $250 a year.

The Transportation Corridor Agencies, for example, pays $120 a meeting.

Bartlett received a warning letter after a Tustin man complained about council members countywide.

WHAT’S NEXT: The FPPC says the warn-ing letters are the end of the issue. City Council members this year left the room during the votes. Attorneys have also asked the FPPC to reconsider the ruling.

FIND OUT MORE: See the entire list and one of the violation letters at www.dan-apointtimes.com —JV

EYE ON DP

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times March 2–8, 2012 Page 4

Dock Master Inspires Clean Marinas

hen Embarcadero Marina dock master Ken Stetson joined the Marina Recreation Association

he had no idea it would be his first step toward become a leading Clean Marina Certification consultant or that he would be the one to champion the first ever certifica-tion of a dry storage facility.

In 2006 Stetson joined the MRA with his boss, Vintage Marina Partners General Manager Brian Dunn.

(Vintage Marina Partners is the opera-tor of the Embarcadero Marina and launch ramp and manages much of the Harbor commercial core. The Marine Recreation Association is primarily a California-based organization made up of a group of marina general managers; however the MRA now has members in places like Hawaii, Colo-rado, Nevada and Arizona among others.)

In the Harbor other operators like Dana West Marina and Dana Point Marina Company had already earned certification along with VMP’s two other marinas—Vin-tage Marina and Channel Islands Harbor Marina in Oxnard—the first two certified marinas ever. But at the time nobody had though about certifying a dry storage facil-ity like the Embarcadero.

“We talked about trying to get the Em-barcadero certified,” said Stetson. “At the time, no one had certified such a dry stor-age facility before, but we felt it was impor-tant because of our close proximity to the ocean. The big idea was to do everything in our power to protect the water quality at our facility. Brian [Dunn] said it was time and I got started working on it right away.”

As operations manager (dock master) of VMP’s Embarcadero Marina at the Dana Point Harbor, Stetson took his first Clean Marina Certification class eager to learn the steps to take to get the marina certi-fied.

Stetson said the process was, at first, largely trial and error and that his first effort to pass the certification test was unsuccessful.

“When I first took the test in March of 2009 I didn’t pass, but the experience made me all the more determined to do it,” said Stetson. “I enlisted the help of Dana Point Harbor Director Brad Gross as I prepared to retake the test. I took it again in Novem-ber of 2009 and passed with flying colors.”

Gross said his mentorship came as part of OC Dana Point Harbor’s water quality program which is designed to encourage and assist all harbor operators to maintain clean marinas.

“We mentored Ken [Stetson] through the process to ensure success during the inspection,” said Gross. “Adding Embar-cadero Marina to our list of Clean Marina facilities in the Harbor (Dana West, East

W

By Andrea Swayne Dana Point Times

Vintage Marina Partners’ Ken Stetson is a leader among clean marina consultants

Basin, OC Sailing and Event docks and the DPYC) rounded out our efforts to have all our partners operate within Clean Marina guidelines. We applaud Ken in his efforts.”

Embarcadero Marina became the first dry storage facility ever to earn certifi-cation. Since then one other, Newport Dunes in Newport Beach, has also been certified.

Stetson’s hard work and determination paid off, not only by contributing to the Harbor’s efforts to maintain Clean Ma-rina guidelines but also by distinguishing the Embarcadero as a leader among dry storage facilities. It also set a course for Stetson to become an expert on Clean Marina Certification and inspired his efforts to act as a mentor—a certified consultant on the California Clean Ma-rina Board.

Stetson became an official test proctor and mentor for others seeking certifica-tion.

“I’ve done six certifications now, some first timers, some re-certifications, and I really enjoy it. I wish I could do more. I think it’s important. If we don’t step in, who will?” said Stetson. “I was passion-ate about environmental issues before and this gave me a platform to become a more active participant. It makes me feel good to take part in caring for the water and the environment.”

Dunn has strong praise for Stetson’s determination in becoming increasingly involved in the certification process.

“It is important to Vintage Marina Partners to have someone like Ken on staff as it is of utmost importance to us to set clean standards in our industry,” said Dunn. “Ken goes above and beyond by

implementing guidelines like low-water and chemical free landscaping. It was a natural next step for him to help other companies develop these practices.”

IN THE BEGINNINGThe movement toward clean mari-

nas originally began when the State of California proposed instituting a host of rigorous rules for such facilities.

The MRA went to the state proposing that instead of imposing stiff legislation the state allow them to govern them-selves. The state agreed to give it a try.

“The program has been very success-ful so far. Now 10 years out, the first set of marinas certified in 2006 is ready to apply for recertification,” said Stetson. “Recertification is required every five years.”

Since those first certification tests were proctored the exam has become progressively more difficult over time as guidelines evolve.

Part of that evolution is due to facili-ties’ willingness to stretch set guidelines and add stronger self-imposed measures to operate as good stewards of the envi-ronment.

“We’ve done more than the test requires on a few things like adding a trench drain that runs across the top of our launch ramp,” said Stetson. “It is designed to catch ambient water coming off the parking lot and wash rack, funnel-ing runoff, soap, oil, etc that without it would go directly into the ocean.”

By adding other eco-friendly landside improvements like drought tolerant plants, rain sensing sprinklers, drip and bubbler watering on timer systems and chemical free weed prevention

measures, Stetson acknowledges that his efforts have contributed to making the test increasingly hard to pass. But he also points out that due to such additions the Harbor has become a more attractive and inviting place aesthetically.

“Because of the energy savings realized when we changed to high efficiency bulbs, this holiday season we were able to put up over 100,000 lights,” he said. “Before that the system couldn’t hold enough power to support more than about 10,000. And I have the receipts to prove it.”

Many such improvements have been add-ed to the test as non-mandatory items, but marinas seeking certification have largely jumped in with both feet, trying to meet as many eco-friendly measures as possible.

Recycling measures have also been stepped up in some unexpected ways. Even Santa has benefited from the spirit of the sustainability, reuse and recycle efforts.

“We have been renting a sleigh for years for Santa’s appearance at our Holidays at the Harbor event. This year, my crew took it upon themselves to build an amazing throne for him. They used 90 percent reclaimed materials and it came out beauti-fully,” said Stetson. “Santa loved it, and so did his young visitors and their parents.”

The marina hosts free bilge pad events twice a year, to educate boaters about bilge pad use, and provides free pads and disposal year round.

“Reusable tote bags full of boater educa-tion materials about safe boating and clean practices are presented to new tenants and those using the ramp, to foster a commu-nity of boaters as concerned with the care of the environment as we are and equipped with the knowledge necessary to use best practices and become good stewards of the ocean,” Stetson said.

From the way paint and other hazard-ous chemicals are stored, to berming off dumpster areas, Clean Marina Certifica-tion requires many measures designed to protect the environment and it’s comforting that there are people like Ken Stetson work-ing to ensure compliance.

“It’s all voluntary, but it’s very important. I am proud of our policies,” said Stetson

Rightfully so, according to harbor and marina officials we spoke to, who feel this program has done much more than would have been possible had such measures been imposed by the legislature. And Stet-son has played an integral part in making the program a success here in Dana Point and beyond.

“It’s not merely another law, costing taxpayers, requiring additional staffing and policing,” said Stetson. “Clean Marina Certification has created a culture among marinas and their operators who are com-mitted to voluntarily making clean marinas for the public enjoyment, now and for future generations.” DP

Embarcadero Marina’s Ken Stetson stands near drought tolerant landscaping added as apart of Vintage Marina Partners’ Clean Marina Certification. Photo by Andrea Swayne

EYE ON DP

Dana Point Times March 2–8, 2012 Page 5

DPSheriff’s Blotter

COMPILED BY JONATHAN VOLZKEAll 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 26

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCYElisa Drive, 33000 Block (11:28 p.m.)A man reported he was overdosing on a gram of bath salts.

CITIZEN ASSISTPerch Drive, 25000 Block (8:52 p.m.)A man reported he and his teen-aged daughter received threats over Facebook.

DISTURBANCERitz Carlton Drive, 0 Block (8:03 p.m.)A bistro inside a swank hotel reported a disruptive customer did not pay his bill.

VANDALISMDel Obispo Street/Village Road (5:17 p.m.) Someone threw something at an SUV and damaged the mirror. The driver thought it was kids on the hill above Del Obispo.

WELFARE CHECKDel Obispo Street, 33800 Block (2:52 p.m.) A woman in New Jersey said her ex-boyfriend in Dana Point threatened to hurt himself while they were texting.

PATROL CHECKScenic Drive, 34500 Block (2:33 p.m.)A photo shoot in the street was causing a traffic problem, a caller reported.

DISTURBANCEOlinda Drive, 33800 Block (2:30 p.m.)A man reported he confronted a parent about kids playing in the street and the parent yelled at him and threatened him.

WARRANT ARRESTQuail Run, 25600 Block (12:40 pm.)A BMW and Jeep were apparently involved in an accident. Deputies discovered one subject was wanted on a warrant, and arrested a man.

DISTURBANCEDomingo Avenue, 25900 Block (7:23 a.m.) A woman refused to leave a rest-room. She was, the caller said, possibly on drugs. A 34-year-old female cashier was arrested.

NEWS BITESP R O P S , R E C O G N I T I O N S A N D M O R S E L S O F I N F O

Compiled by Andrea Swayne

Yacht Club Opens to Landlubbers

In honor of their 60th anniversary, Dana Point Yacht Club is running a membership special and dropping the requirement that members be boat owners. The cost to join is $500 (normally $650) and $60 per month (normally $120) for six months, then $120 per month after that. No monthly minimums or additional charges required. The spe-cial is available March 3, 4, 10 and 11 with open house tours on all four days. The Club is located at 24399 Dana Drive. For more information, call 949.496.2900 or see www.dpyc.org.

Cleanup Volunteers Needed

ZeroTrash Dana Point invites volunteers to their March 3, 10 a.m. cleanup. ZeroTrash volunteers meet on the first Saturday of each month to collect trash in the business district of Dana Point. Meet at Girl in the Curl surf shop, 34116 Pacific Coast Highway or Hobie Surf Shop, 24825 Del Prado, at 10 a.m. Bags, gloves and trash pickers will be provided. For more information, stop by their booth at the Harbor during the Festival of Whales or log on to www.zerotrash.org.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTDana Point Harbor Drive, 25300 Block (6:31 a.m.) A bicyclist and a State Parks Officer were involved in a traffic collision, but nobody was injured.

DISTURBANCEDana Point Harbor Drive, 24500 Block (2:55 a.m.) Two men, about 55, were get-ting into a fight, the caller reported, and falling into the water.

DISTURBANCELa Cresta Drive/Amber Lantern (1:38 a.m.) A caller reported several people beating up another person. Another caller reported they ran away.

Saturday, February 25

WELFARE CHECKKara Bay, 23800 Block (11:07 p.m.) A neighbor reported a dog barking that never barks, so the caller thought some-thing might be wrong.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTCamino Capistrano, 34200 Block (10:35 p.m.) A car hit a parked van. Deputies found a woman with some injuries. A blood technician was called to the hospital and a 22-year-old woman was taken into custody.

DISTURBANCELa Plaza, 34100 Block (9:52 p.m.) A man, apparently drunk, jumped on the hood of

a taxi after leaving a bar. He then got into a big party bus, the taxi driver reported, and was blocking the cab from leaving.

CITIZEN ASSISTRobles Drive, 33800 Block (9:05 p.m.)A woman reported her power went out and she is partially blind and needed a deputy’s help checking the electrical box.

WELFARE CHECKCrystal Lantern, 34100 Block (7:49 p.m.)Deputies received a call from someone texted by a friend who reported a family member had overdosed and maybe died. But then the caller received other infor-mation the family member might be in the hospital. Deputies tracked down the family member.

TRAFFIC HAZARDSelva Road/Chula Vista Avenue (1:12 p.m.) About a dozen skateboarders were riding down the middle of the street.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCESCalle Portola, 34500 Block (11:42 a.m.) A caller reported paint running in the gut-ter. Deputies tracked it to Calle Real.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENTStonehill Drive/Golden Lantern (5:15 a.m.) A white truck hit a wall three times, a caller reported, while another called in a roll-over accident. A 20-year-old man was cited and released.

SPONSORED BY Dana Point Police Serviceswww.HideitLockitOrLoseit.com

Earth/Ocean Society president Sandie Iverson (left) and director Judy Brandmeier (right) congratulate Cathy McCool (center). Photo by Bob Fairbanks

McCool Gets Green Award

Cathy McCool of McCool Flowers was awarded the Earth/Ocean Society Green Business Award for her extraordinary efforts to preserve the environment and keep Dana Point clean. The award was presented to Mc-Cool at the Society’s annual meeting, Febru-ary 26 at the Dana Point Yacht Club. McCool was commended for her commitment to look-ing for greener options while serving her cus-tomers, including choosing packaging made of recycled and biodegradable materials. For more information, see www.danapointearth-ocean.org and www.mccoolflowers.com.

doesn’t collect it, then it must be reported as earned income. No one has answered that question. There is a pending lawsuit in L.A. on that subject and the city will wait until it’s decided before making a decision on whether or not to implement such a charge.

One of the council members remarked that there would be an incentive for the merchants in the package. But it was eliminated in the ordinance. So the council voted on an ordinance that they will modify at a later date. So it was kind of like, the council had to vote for it so we can fi nd out just what’s in the fi nal package. Sound familiar? And, why the rush? Why didn’t the council wait a couple of months until they had a complete package for the mer-chants?

The city of Dana Point will wind up in a law suit over this ban; there is no doubt. I do not want one cent of my tax money defending this big brother government, politically correct, feel good, ordinance.

JEWEL IN THE ROUGH OR IN THE TANK

EVA WESSELL, Capistrano BeachFrom a Capistrano Beach resident of

39 years, thank you for the good report about the new effort to “revitalize” Doheny

San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTSSOAPBOX Dana Point Times, Vol. 5, Issue 8. 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

INTERNSAustin Patrick Reagan

SPECIAL THANKSRobert Miller

CONTRIBUTORSTawnee Prazak, David Zimmerle

EDITORSTORIES, NEWS, CALENDAR, ETC.

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@danapointtimes.com

ADVERTISINGPRINT AND ONLINE

Lauralyn Loynes, 949.388.7700, x102 lloynes@danapointtimes.com

DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113aswayne@danapointtimes.com

BILLINGAlyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@danapointtimes.com

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

Letters to the EditorFOAM, BAG BANS ARE BIG BROTHER GOVERNMENT

WARNER TAPPAN, Capistrano BeachWell, on February 21 the City Council

voted to ban plastic bags and foam contain-ers. There are a couple of problems here. First, it’s not enforceable in the harbor. That is under the jurisdiction of Orange County. A phone call to Supervisor Pat Bates’ offi ce was returned by a representative who said the Board of Supervisors has more press-ing matters to deal with at present.

Second, I contacted the State Parks offi ce in Sacramento. I was referred to a district offi ce in San Diego and was again told that Dana Point has no jurisdiction. If Dana Point has no jurisdiction at the state beach or in the harbor, who are they enforcing the ban on?

I don’t believe for one second that the plastic bags and the foam containers you take home from the market or the numer-ous fast food restaurants wind up in the harbor or on the beach. More than likely it comes from the visitor who is bringing items with them when they visit our city.

There has been discussion about charg-ing the customer 10 cents per paper bag to cover the cost of implementing the ordinance. If the merchant charges it, and the city collects it, that’s a tax. If the city

Village (“A Jewel in the Rough,” Dana Point Times, Feb. 3-9, 2012). A jewel in the rough is a well chosen term, as the Village was once quite vital with a supermarket, boutiques and the much loved Kenney’s hardware store. There were even banks and a bowling alley.

But, all those businesses have long moved north across San Juan Creek, leav-ing our “downtown” squeezed between big box stores and the I-5 off-ramp. Even the whimsical sail boats on the off-ramps’ rails, refl ect the main business of that other part of town. To make matters worse, the new pedestrian bridge over Coast Highway, wide, well decorated and with a bold “Dana Point” on its neo-Tuscan span, does everything to tell us, where Dana Point really begins: only a little south of Del Obispo street.

But, wait. There is of course yet a third part to Dana Point—that busy commercial strip along the railroad and Coast Hwy. called the “Riviera.” It wasn’t mentioned in the plans for the Village; perhaps profi t-ability has rendered the need for revitaliza-tion moot. And yet, this section also has a pedestrian bridge. But, what a bridge. No handsome span as farther north, but an aged, no-nonsense, gritty basket of corroded chain links, chipped stairs,

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

stained concrete and rusty rebar. In short, it’s a true blight if there ever was one—and right close to the actual southern entrance to Dana Point. Let us hope the coastal strip, and especially this dilapidated gateway to our city, will be included in the plans for the redevelopment of Doheny Village.

PRAISE FOR BEVERLI JINN, LIBRARY

MARY ANN EDMISTON, Dana PointI have wanted to write this letter to you

for a long time. It is in regard to Beverly Jinn’s column. Her column is like a breath of spring air. Thank you, Ms. Editor, for giving her the freedom to express herself. I love it.

The other thing I want to mention are the recent letters to the editor belittling our library. The library has been my home away from home for 30 years now. I cannot praise it enough.

To those writers who fi nd fault, I have some good news for you: Laguna Niguel is in the process of building a beautiful mod-ern library. I suggest you go there.

CHAOS AT THE CANNERY8 p.m. The annual Old West melodrama debuts at Camino Real Playhouse. Tickets $24-$34. Preview night special of $18-$28. Performances through

March 24. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

COMMUNITY SCIENCE NIGHT 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conser-vancy will be at this special event at Santiago Canyon College. 8045 E. Chapman Ave., Orange, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

FIRST FRIDAY FILM 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Screening of The Ides of March at the library. Fee $2. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.5132, www.ocpl.org.

UNCORK YOUR ARTIST! 6:30 p.m. Bring your own wine and do some art at San Clemente Art Supply-Green Flash Gallery, materials included. Cost $40. Reservations recommended. 1531 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949-369-6603, uncorkyourartist.com.

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times March 2–8, 2012 Page 8

THE LIST

friday02

HANSEL & GRETEL 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Musical produc-tion for kids and the whole fam-ily at Renée and Henry Seger-strom Concert Hall. Tickets $19-$36. 600 Town Center Drive,

Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.ocpac.org.

FAMILY FILM FEATURE 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Screening of Puss in Boots for the whole family to enjoy at the library, free admission and popcorn. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

STARS ON ICE 7:30 p.m. Special show at the Honda Center featuring skating superstars Sasha Cohen, Ekateri-na Gordeeva, Ilia Kulik, Kurt Browning and more. Tickets start at $27. 2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, 714.704.2500, www.hondacenter.com.

saturday 03

TALL SHIP ADVENTURE SAIL 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The Ocean Institute features a Whale’s Tale Sailing Adven-ture onboard its tall ship Spirit of Dana Point. Cost

$21-$40. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

OVERVUE HAPPY HOUR 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. Drink and appetizer specials at the OverVue Lounge ad Deck at Laguna Cliffs Marriott. 25135 Park Lantern, Dana Point, 949.661.5000, www.lagunacliffs.com.

JAZZ BRUNCH 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Live music by Tom Morey and crew during brunch at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacifi c Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

SCOTT HELMER 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Cel-lar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

sunday 04

JAZZ ENSEMBLE 7 p.m. Saddleback College presents The Lab Ensemble featuring Jeff Ellwood in McKinney Theatre. Tickets $7-$10. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission

Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

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 05

POUL PEDERSEN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Live music at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

WINE & CHEESE TASTING 6 p.m. Jadot wine & bur-gundy cheese tasting at The Cellar and live music at 7 p.m.-11 p.m. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

tuesday 06

CASA ROMANTICA PRESENTATION: PATIO HISTORY, STYLE, AND COLOR 7 p.m. Emmy award-win-ning author and horti-

culturist Pat Welsh gives a talk about making your patio, balcony or porch beautiful with ideas for plant choices, decorations and furnishings. $6-$7. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

OCEAN INSTITUTE ORIENTATION MEETING3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Prospective volunteers are invited to meet at the Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

wednesday 07

WHALE WATCHING 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Whale watching trips de-part every hour at Dana Wharf. $19-$29. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

FAMILY NIGHT FREE CONCERT 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Ambuehl PTA and the Pacifi c Symphony Class Act present a concert featuring the music of Aaron Copland held in The Church In San Juan Capistrano. Free. 31731 San Juan Creek Road, 949.661.0400, 949.248.4619.

2ND ANNUAL LAGUNA BEACH A LA CARTE FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCE Experience world-class cuisine, educational seminars, cooking demonstrations, food & wine pairings and special offers by local restau-rateurs March 8-11 at various locations. More info: www.lagunabeachfoodies.com.

thursday 08

Have an event?Send your listing to events@danapointtimes.com

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

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

GETTING OUT

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

CUBENSIS 10 p.m. OC Tavern presents the Grateful Dead Tribute Band in The OCT Room. Tickets $10. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

TOOLS FOR CHANGE & JAM TASTING 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Ecology Center’s ongoing interactive exhibi-tion, featuring sustainable household products, a play area and learning space for children, and special week-end events (this weekend: jam tasting). Open Saturdays and Sundays. 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

For more than four decades Dana Point has celebrated the annual migration of the majestic California gray whales as they pass the landmark headlands on their nearly 10,000-mile round trip between Arctic feeding grounds in the north and the breed-ing and calving lagoons of Baja. The Dana Point Festival of Whales has grown from a small walking parade of costumed children (when the Harbor fi rst opened 41 years ago) to what is now an adventure-packed, two-weekend event. The festival—March 3, 4, 10 and 11—kicks off Saturday with a parade down Pacifi c Coast Highway at 10 a.m. followed by A Whale of a Block Party at La Plaza Park. The parade features a colorful variety of fl oats, bands, cars and giant balloons. After the parade, participants can make their way to the carnival style Block Party—bounce houses, games, vendors, music, food and more—then move on to the Harbor where a full schedule of activi-ties are planned for all four days. Don’t miss the free movie, A Dolphin Tale, at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at Baby Beach. From whale watching, educational programs, stand-up

paddling and the Grunion Run foot race to pancake breakfasts, art shows, music, classic cars and sandcastle building contests, there’s something for everyone at this 41st annual cetacean celebration. For a full schedule of events, log on to www.danapointtimes.com and download the offi cial event program.—Andrea Swayne

GO.SEE.DO: FESTIVAL OF WHALES

majestic California gray whales as they pass the landmark headlands on their nearly 10,000-mile round trip between Arctic feeding grounds in the north and the breed-

cars and sandcastle building contests, there’s something for everyone at this 41st annual cetacean celebration. For a full

SHOP LOCAL!

The Chamber is Just a Call or Click Away949.496.1555 or www.danapointchamber.com

S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N B R O U G H T T O Y O U B Y

T H E D A N A P O I N T C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times March 2–8, 2012 Page 12

4PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

DP LIVING

recently, Ross has been involved on the production committee for new full-length film highlighting the beauty and history of Dana Point. Since joining the Board of Directors in 2009, Ross has been highly involved in home tours, luaus and man-aging the online presence.

Just as he seeks to preserve the history of Dana Point, the preservation of our environment has always been a priority for Ross. As such, he has been a member of the Earth/Ocean Society since its founding in 2006 and has been on the Board of Directors since 2010. The mission of the Earth/Ocean Society is to educate and inspire our community to improve and preserve a clean earth, watersheds and beaches by provid-ing hands-on educational programs, volunteering and peer mentoring. E/OS strives to educate citizens in Dana Point

Volunteer of the Month, February 2012: Ross Teasleyhe Volunteer of the Month for Febru-ary 2012 is Ross Teasley. Ross is currently on the Board of Directors

for the Dana Point Historical Society and Earth/Ocean Society and is the founder of ZeroTrash Dana Point. He is also a member of Lantern Village Association, the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, and a good friend to the Dana Point Community Cycling Foundation.

After visiting Dana Point in the early 1990s, it didn’t take long for Ross and his wife Ellendea to fall in love with the community. Shortly thereafter, they made the decision to move to Dana Point from Michigan in 1994.

Upon arriving in Dana Point, Ross and Ellendea, owned and managed Ardis Publishing, the largest Russian-language publishing house outside of Russia, where they published literature in both Russian and English. After selling the company, they founded Casa Dana, an independent consulting firm that specializes in commu-nications, publishing, PR, blogging, social media, advertising and marketing.

Over the years, Ross has been involved in a multitude of organizations and donated countless hours towards improving Dana Point. As an enthusiastic history buff, Ross joined the Dana Point Historical Society in 2002. His passion for preserving the history of Dana Point is hard to miss. He is moved by the stories of people and places and aligns himself perfectly with the Historical Society’s mission to preserve the city’s rich and colorful past.

The first major project Ross was involved with for the Historical Society was the creation of a two part educational piece for local elementary schools titled, “Dana Point, My Home Town.” After receiv-ing a grant from the city, Ross wrote and produced the video that is not only a great educational piece on our local history for students, but for the public as well. More

that the ocean is in danger due to pollu-tion and keeping our streets clean can eliminate much of that pollution.

One of the primary reasons Ross got involved in the Earth Ocean Society was the opportunity to educate and mentor future generations about preservation. EOS supports a scholarship program focused on raising littering awareness among fifth graders. The program’s primary goals are to give children an opportunity to experience volunteerism, increase their sense of community and to learn responsibility to the environment.

Another major project that Ross was involved in was the provision of smokers’ outposts throughout the community. The ultimate vision for this project is to place approximately 75 of outposts in Dana Point to help prevent cigarettes butts from making their way into our streets and ocean.

After being involved with the Earth/Ocean Society for several years, Ross joined the Board of Directors to help ex-pand the mission of the organization, as well as manage IT and blogging. His goal for the nonprofit is to continue to raise money to underwrite educational pro-grams, while expanding to more schools in Dana Point. He wishes to broaden environmental advocacy throughout the community by advocating for elimination of environmentally harmful products like plastics from the Dana Point eco-system.

In an effort to expand the reach of the Earth/Ocean Society’s mission, Ross founded the Dana Point chapter of Ze-roTrash, along with Mary Hartmann of Girl in the Curl Surf Shop. ZeroTrash is a community cleanup project committed to ridding city streets of trash, reducing waste, supporting local businesses and taking personal responsibility for the environment. ZeroTrash meets the first Saturday of each month at Town Center

By Lynn Kelly, Management Analyst, City of Dana Point Economic Development

businesses Girl in the Curl and Hobie Surf Shop and rallies the community and local businesses to clean the streets.

ZeroTrash also advocates for local governments to provide a greater infra-structure for public recycling, trash and cigarette butt disposal. In Laguna Beach, Ross has worked with ZeroTrash to conduct an audit of trash and recycling facilities throughout the city. As a result, the city added trash, cigarette and recy-cling receptacles to several new high traffic areas.

ZeroTrash is also involved in educating the community. “Trash Talks” are hands-on school assemblies teaching kids to take personal responsibility in reducing waste and re-enforcing recycling habits.

As one of the founding members of ZeroTrash, Ross is involved in market-ing, outreach and website development for the group. Currently, Ross’ focus for ZeroTrash is adding new city chapters. Re-cently, because of his efforts, several new cities created chapters including Laguna Niguel, Santa Barbara, Seattle, Chico, and Corona del Mar. ZeroTrash has even gone international. There are ZeroTrash chap-ters in Slovakia and St. Petersburg, Russia.

Ross exudes passion and zeal for the many causes he believes in throughout the community. His excitement and enthu-siasm are contagious as he discusses building capacity and collaboration in nonprofits. He considers volunteering as “contributing to the richness of life,” and is humbled by having the opportunity to serve his community.

The City of Dana Point would like to con-gratulate Ross Teasley on being selected as the Volunteer of the Month for February 2012 and thank him for his many years of service to the community, his determined efforts for the preservation of the environ-ment and dedication to preserving the unique history of Dana Point. DP

DPDana Point

T

Mayor Lara Anderson presents Ross Teasley with his Volunteer of the Month Award. 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.

BUSINESS DIRECTORYLocals Only

The only directory featuring Dana Point businesses exclusively

Jim Ettinger Design 949.246.022433742 Big Sur St., jimettingerdesign@cox.netNona 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. 125 949.661.3877beaconprinting@sbcglobal.netPrinting 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, sanclementepreschool@gmail.com

PRESCHOOLS

Patricia Powers 949.496.1900License#0737080, pat.powers@cox.netStatefarm/Elaine LaVine 949.240.894434080 Golden Lantern, www.elainelavine.netState Farm/Ted Bowersox 949.661.320034085 Pacific Coast Hwy. #204www.tedbowersox.com

INSURANCE SERVICES

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 949.697.1770rjls@cox.net

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

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY”This handy, cost-friendly, go-to

reference tool keeps your business in front

of potential customers 24/7.

GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY.

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail

aedwards@danapointtimes.com.

Island Inspired Pool & Spa 949.547.1000islandinspired@earthlink.net

POOL & SPA SERVICE

B U S I N E S S • S P O T L I G H T

MOBILE SALON MALINAFull service salon to you! Perfect for the whole family, busy executives, proms, weddings, parties and events. Invite to your home or office 7-days a week for haircuts and style! The mobile unit is de-signed to fit all requirements, from baby haircuts to adult male or female and everyone in between. Book your appointment today. 949.500.2909, www.salonmalina.comMobile Salon Malina 949.500.2909

www.salonmalina.comParagon Salon 949.489.195534161 Pacific Coast Hwy.Salon Revelation - Dayna Dallas 949.248.859534192 Violet Lantern #2

BEAUTY SALONS

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

ELECTRICAL

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

COFFEE SHOP

Smokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.810232860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

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 Servicesdaniel@sanclementecomputer.com 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

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles 949.350.4692www.gracorpcoins.com Kevin

COINS

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

Jolly Roger Restaurant 949.496.085534661 Golden Lantern, www.aloharestaurants.comSmokey’s House of BBQ 949.388.810232860 Pacific Coast Hwy. #4, www.SmokeysHouseofBBQ.com

Danman’s Music School 949.496.655624699 Del Prado, www.danmans.com

www.danapointtimes.comDana Point Times March 2–8, 2012 Page 15

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

CLASSIFIEDS

BUSINESS DIRECTORYSan Clemente

DPDana Point

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

classifi eds@danapointtimes.comDEADLINE 5PM MONDAY.

No phone calls please.

Do you want to reach 10,000+ people in the Dana Point

area every week?

Then you need to be in the Dana Point Times. Call us today!

949.388.7700 ext. 102

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD

HERE

EDUCATIONMONTESSORI OPEN HOUSELittle Minds Montessori Capistrano Beach has an open house March 11th, 1-5pm. Enrolling children 2-6 ages. 25% off tuition for 4 months. (949) 488 7939 (949) 374 8352

5STORIES, 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

GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Dolphins (16-5-1) continued with their winning ways this postseason, easily besting Red-lands, 4-1, while on the road in the second round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs on February 22. Dana Hills started off in at-tack mode, netting three goals in the fi rst half alone for the 3-0 lead at the half. The girls then put this one on ice in the sec-ond half with another goal for the outright win. Dana Hills was led by seniors Paige LaBarre, Danielle Spriggs, Lyndsy Gaines and Sydney Chiodini who each scored one goal apiece in the victory. LaBarre, Spriggs and Gaines each had assists in the fi rst half of play as well.

Next, the team moved on to face Or-ange Lutheran at home in the quarterfi -nals on February 24 and shutout the Lady Lancers with a 2-0 win.

The victory set up a pivotal semifi nals showdown on the road with cross-town rival San Clemente High on February 28. San Clemente beat Dana Hills 2-0 and will advance on to the CIF-SS Finals slated for March 2-3. Next 7 days: N/A

WRESTLING • The duo representing Dana Hills High at the CIF-SS Masters Meet, February 24-25 at Temecula Val-ley High, were eventually ousted from contention and did not advance to the upcoming CIF State Championships slated for March 3-4 at Rabobank Arena in Bakersfi eld.

Following an early exit by Merritt Cruz (120), Dalton Du’Casse (220) picked up a fi rst round win but fell to Derrick Jones of Bloomington High in the second round, 4-3. Next 7 days: N/A

BASEBALL • After taking on Univer-sity on the road in a scrimmage game on February 25, the Dolphins started off the regular season at the Loara Tourna-ment March 2-3, 6, 8 and 10. Next 7 days: March 2-3, 6, 8, 10 at Loara Tournament, TBA

SOFTBALL • The Lady Dolphins took on Laguna Hills in their fi rst game of the regular season on February 28 before hosting A.B. Miller High in a double-header on March 2. Next 7 days: March

Griffi ns vs. Dolphins, Laguna Niguel Racquet ClubMarch 8, 3 p.m.

After rolling through plenty of on-court action to start the season, the Dolphins host a big match against Los Alamitos High.Info: www.dhhs.net

5 BEST BETSBlue and White Meet, Dana Hills HighMarch 2, 2 p.m.

Dana Hills’s track and fi eld teams head to the high school’s track for the fi rst meet of the regular season.Info: www.dhhs.net

Flames vs. Ducks,Honda CenterMarch 2, 7 p.m.

Before heading north to take on the L.A. Kings, the Anaheim Ducks host an icy battle against the hard-hitting Calgary Flames.Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

Heat vs. Lakers,Staples CenterMarch 6, 12:30 p.m.

LeBron, D-Wade and Chris Bosh head west with the rest of the Mi-ami Heat in tow to take on the L.A. Lakers.Info: www.nba.com/lakers

TRACK AND FIELD HOCKEY BASKETBALL BOYS TENNIS BOYS LACROSSE

Lions vs. Dolphins,Dana Hills HighMarch 8, 6 p.m.

The Dolphins host their second home game of the regular season as Dana Hills preps for a showdown with JSerra High.Info: www.dhhs.net

6 vs. Northwood, 4 p.m.; March 8-10 at TOC at Bullhead, AZ, TBA

GOLF • The Dolphins hosted Capo Valley to start the regular season at El Niguel Country Club on February 28 before traveling to take on Newport Har-bor on February 29 at Monarch Beach Golf Course.Next 7 days: March 5 vs. Palm Desert at Desert Willow, 2:30 p.m.; March 6 vs. Capo Valley at El Niguel CC, 3 p.m.

BOYS LACROSSE • The Dolphins traveled to take on Beckman in a scrim-mage game on February 25 before hosting Mater Dei for a regular season showdown on February 29. Next 7 days: March 3 at Great Oak, 2:30 p.m.; March 5 at University, 4 p.m.; March 8 vs. JSerra, 6 p.m.

GIRLS LACROSSE • The Lady Dol-phins took on Laguna Hills in a scrim-mage on February 28 before hosting Temecula Valley to start the regular season on March 1. Next 7 days: March 3 at Rose Bowl Tourney, TBA; March 6 at Woodbridge, 3:30 p.m.; March 8 vs. Tustin, 5:30 p.m.

BOYS AND GIRLS SWIMMING • The Dolphins swim team host Mil-

likan High to start the regular season on March 2. Next 7 days: March 6 vs. El Toro, 3 p.m.; March 8 at Capo Valley Relays (girls/prelims), 3 p.m.; March 9 at Capo Valley Relays (boys/prelims), 3 p.m.

BOYS AND GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD • The Dolphins host the Blue and White Meet to start the regular season on March 2. Next 7 days: March 8 vs. Great Oak, 3 p.m.

BOYS TENNIS • The Dolphins took on Santa Margarita in a scrimmage match on February 21 before hitting up regular sea-son play at the Corona del Mar Doubles Invite on February 24. The team then traveled to take on Tesoro High on Febru-ary 28. Next 7 days: March 2-3 at Fresno Tourney, TBA; March 6 at Northwood, 3:15 p.m.; March 8 vs. Los Alamitos at LNRC, 3 p.m.

BOYS VOLLEYBALL • The Dolphins faced Irvine in a scrimmage match on February 25 before starting the regular season with a match against Servite at home on February 28. The team next traveled to take on Los Alamitos on March 1. Next 7 days: March 6 at Orange Lutheran, 6:30 p.m.; March 8 at JSerra, 6 p.m.; March 9-10 at Foothill Tourney, 3 p.m.

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITYDP SURF

6DPDana Point

Age: 7, Concordia Elementary Jake Lerdahl first paddled out at the age of 5 but really got into surfing last summer. Since then he’s been practicing hard in anticipation of becoming a competitive surfer. He knew he was hooked on the idea of surfing contests when he took second in his first heat ever at the T. Patterson Surf Contest at last year’s San Clemente Seafest. “I like contests because its fun to go against other people; to see how you do against your friends,” Jake said, adding that he would like to surf professionally someday and follow in the footsteps of his favorite pro surfer Kelly Slater. Lately he surfs four to five days a week at T Street and Rivi, practicing making his turns bigger, better and more on rail. Jake said he’d also like to learn how to get air and is working on that as well. Neighbor and surfer Chris Kawada has been mentoring, coaching and looking out for Jake in the line up. “I was surprised at how he charged it in 3- to 5-foot waves on only his third time out with me,” Kawada said. “Jake definitely has the potential to be a great surfer. He tries really hard.”

Jake also works hard in school and received an academic achievement award. He was also honored for his second place finish in the last school Chess Club tournament. His other hobbies include skateboarding, snowboarding, watching North Shore surf videos and dreaming of surfing there some day. —Andrea Swayne

GROM OF THE WEEK Jake Lerdahl

The Girls Are Golden

By Andrea SwayneDana Point Times

mmy Merrill and Brandi Baksic of San Clemente led Team USA to a silver medal as both earned gold at

the ISA World Standup Paddle and Paddle-board Championships in Peru, February 19 through 25.

Merrill’s victory topped off stellar per-formances winning all three preliminary round heats of Women’s SUP Surf. Her powerful style bested runner up Shakira Westdorp of Australia by a two-wave score of 15.94 (out of 20) to 10.66.

Baksic held a strong lead in the Women’s SUP Technical Race, beating sil-ver medalist Angela Jackson (AUS) 19.12 to 20:49. She found herself once again in a battle with Jackson for the top spot in the Women’s SUP Marathon and took her second gold defeating Jackson by nearly 10 minutes, 02:04:59 to 02:14:37.

The two San Clemente men on the team,

E

Rob Rojas and Colin McPhillips, missed out on medals but contributed valuable points to Team USA’s campaign both finishing in the top third of their events.

Australia took the team gold, followed by USA in silver, South Africa in bronze and the copper medal went to Spain. A total of 17 countries competed. Log on to www.danapointtimes.com for the full story and results. DP

Jake Lerdahl. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Emmy Merrill, 18, of San Clemente celebrates her gold medal performance in the SUP Surf Women’s event at ISA World Standup Paddle and Paddle-board Championships in Peru. Photo ISA/Piero

SURF RESULTS

Scholastic Surf Series Orange County Middle School, Event No. 3, February 25, Oceanside, Pier

TEAM RESULTS: 1. Shorecliffs, 220; 2. Bernice Ayer, 187; 3. Marco Forster, 171; 4. Niguel Hills, 120; 5. Thurston, 76; 6. Don Juan Avila, 52; 7. Vista del Mar, 51. BOYS SHORTBOARD: 1. Kei Kobayashi, Shorecliffs; 2. Danny Kenduck, Niguel Hills; 3. Connor Dand, Shorecliffs; 4. Lucas Taub, Marco Forster; 5. Gunner Day, Shorecliffs; 6. Con-nor MacLeod, Niguel Hills. BOYS LONG-BOARD: 1. David Levy, Marco Forster; 2. Jacob Atwood, Shorecliffs; 3. Noah Atwood, Shorecliffs; 4. Rio Donaldson, Bernice Ayer; 5. Luke Overin, Bernice Ayer; 6. Hunter Al-brecht, Niguel Hills. GIRLS SHORTBOARD: 1. Malia Osterkamp, Vista del Mar; 2. Malia Ward, Shorecliffs; 3. Rachael Tilly, Shore-cliffs; 4. Maya Harrison, Bernice Ayer; 5. Coco Putnam, Thurston; 6. Ashley Beeson, Niguel Hills. GIRLS LONGBOARD: 1. Rachael Tilly, Shorecliffs; 2. Maya Harrison, Bernice Ayer; 3. Meg Roh, Marco Forster; 4. Kyla Kelley, Vista del Mar; 5. Gabriella McCormic, Bernice Ayer; 6. Myah Bradshaw, Marco Forster. COED BODYBOARD: 1. Walker Carvahlo, Marco Forster; 2. Jaren Harrell, Shorecliffs; 3. Luke Overin, Bernice Ayer; 4. Derek Reynolds, Bernice Ayer; 5. Con-ner Dand, Shorecliffs; 6. Shane Kimbrough, Bernice Ayer.

Two SC women take SUP gold in Peru, Team USA gets silver

BOARDSHORTS

Mickey Muñoz Annual Mongoose CupJoin surf legend Mickey Muñoz and friends for a fun paddle, Waterman Expo, SUP clinics and relays Saturday, March 10. Event kicks off at 9 a.m. with a fun paddle and harbor cleanup sweep. SUP-only relay teams chosen by “luck of the draw.” Entry includes T-shirt and BBQ lunch. Register online at http://mongoosecup2012.eventbrite.com/ or on the beach starting at 7:30 a.m. For info, call 714.262.8370. Muñoz will have a book signing following the event at the Dana Point Yacht Club, autographing copies of his book No Bad Waves: Talking Story with Mickey Muñoz.

UPCOMING EVENTS

March 3-4: WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek

March 10: 3rd Annual Mickey Muñoz Mon-goose Cup, Dana Point, Baby Beach

March 10: SSS Orange County Middle School Event No. 4, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street

March 17-18: Surfing America Prime West, Event No. 5, Huntington Beach, Pier

March 24: NSSA Southwest Explorer, Event No. 8, San Clemente, Pier