On Wednesday evening, May 30, we will have our monthly meeting and celebrate this year’s recipient of our Founders Day award, Jim “Skip” Wehan. An avid mariner and community advocate, Skip graduated with a degree in electrical engineering but returned to school to complete courses in math and teaching. While teaching at Mission Viejo High, he started a sailing school as a summer program in 1975, partnering with Dana Hills High School and the Boys Scouts of America. He used the high school’s boats in Dana Point harbor and the group became the Sea Scouts. Later, the sailing club changed into a nonprofit called the South Coast Sailing Team and was introduced to other schools in the area. The Sea Scouts program trains high school kids in sailing, water navigation, water safety, boat racing and boat maintenance. Along the way they develop a camaraderie and closeness though their love of being on the water. From this program, Skip watches with pride as many of his trained Sea Scouts attend various maritime academies, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Air Force. Skip has dedicated his life to help teach and mentor thousands of students and volunteers while serving as the Captain of the Brig Pilgrim and the Spirit of Dana Point. His time with the Ocean Institute helped give back to students from all over Orange County and spread his love of the sea.
Our event will be held at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Bankson Hall. A reception will greet members and their guests beginning at 6:30 p.m., followed by our program at 7:15 p.m. The event is open to the public and to those who wish to celebrate Skip’s service to our community. Join us for this very special night which is being held on the last Wednesday of the month. For more information contact the Society at 949-248-8121 or at events@DanaPointHistorical.Org