Burrus had a broadcasting career that spanned more than five decades which included being known as "the voice of Armed Forces Radio" and serving as the public address announcer at the Tournament of Roses Parade in the 10 years leading up to his retirement. He started in radio in 1952 at station KRUX in Glendale, Ariz. In 1958, he moved to television there and then in 1964 returned to California where, after World War II he studied broadcasting at the Radio Engineering School in Burbank and worked at several stations in cities like Palm Springs, Los Angeles and Newport Beach until retiring in 1986. 

Upon retiring, he and his wife Gladys moved to Dana Point where he quickly became an integral part of the community by volunteering for many city programs and events. For his involvement in the local scene Gene Burrus, the voice behind Dana Point's youth baseball games, was named 2013 Dana Point Citizen of the Year by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce. Burrus, who has announced youth sports in Dana Point for decades, also voiced the Dana Point Festival of Whales annual parade. 

Aside from his dedication to the community's youth, Burrus was also devoted to helping fellow seniors at the Dana Point Community Center. He could be found most days, helping pack meals, working the crowd and leading activities at the center. 

In April of 2014, Gene visited the  Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary and provided more info about himself, his historical family and his love of Dana Point. Do yourself a favor and take some time to watch the video to the right. 

Combine the beauty of Dana Point Harbor with the popularity of watersports and it's no surprise that  Dana Point Jet Ski and Kayak Center has experienced such success the past 37 years. It's the destination for locals and tourists alike to rent or purchase top of the line Jet Ski®, kayaks and stand up paddleboards (SUP) with direct water access steps from its showroom. Each summer, the recreational watercraft business also organizes a two-day kayak fishing trip. Setting out aboard an 88 ft. multi-use fishing and expedition vessel loaded up with gear and kayaks, the group travels to San Clemente Island where anglers of all ages seek bass, halibut, whitefish and yellowtail from their very own kayak! 

Michele Zorn, PR & Marketing Manager, provided us with a brief insight on the business:

Dana Point Jet Ski and Kayak Center was started in 1978 just two years after Kawasaki® introduced the first Jet Ski® to the world. After several moves within the city of Dana Point, the business was relocated to Dana Point Harbor about 16 years ago. Tim and Karen Boyer purchased the business in 2003, added the Hobie® kayak product line and have continually updated and expanded the rental fleet and product offerings. Also added was the ability of kayak purchasers to store their kayak at the facility with easy access to the water.

Why did you join the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce? 

To learn from and network with other business owners. 
  

In what areas of the Chamber are you involved? 

To learn from and network with other business owners. Donations to the Chamber for mixer raffles. We also donate heavily to local schools, the CHOC surf program, harbor cleanup efforts, just to name a few.

Can you tell us a fun fact about your business that most people wouldn't know? 

Fun Fact: during the three-day July 4th weekend this year, we rented Jet Skis® 122 times, kayaks 285 times and paddleboards 193 times. This is the busiest day of the year in Dana Point Harbor. It takes a great, dedicated staff to achieve this level of success. We also host a monthly kayak fishing tournament that is open to the public.

Do you have any piece of advice for new businesses owners? 

Honesty, trustworthiness and respect will help you persevere as an owner and business in your community.