8TH ANNUAL BEST OF SAN CLEMENTE ISSUE J A N U A RY 2 3 –2 9, 2 0 1 4
LO C A L
N EWS
YO U
C A N
U S E
VOLUME 9, ISSUE 4
www.sanclementetimes.com
San Clemente has voted. Now it’s time to check out what restaurants, businesses and recreational spots you chose as the best of San Clemente for 2013. Photos by Brian Park
City Council to Wrap Up General Plan Discussion in February
Triton Boys Soccer Team Suffers First Loss at National Tournament
Naval Officer from SC Headed to DC as Liaison
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SPORTS/PAGE 44
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IN THIS ISSUE Eateries, Watering Holes and More... Best... Appetizers Bagel Bar Billiards Breakfast Breakfast Burrito Burger Cup of Coffee or Tea Donut Happy Hour International Eats Lunch Spot Margarita Menu for Healthy Choices Overall Restaurant Pizza Restaurant for a Date/ Romantic Evening Sandwich Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth Sushi Taco Venue for Live Music
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At the Shops Best... Antiques Arts and Crafts Supplies Clothing Home Decor and Furnishings Jewelry Kids Apparel & Toys Place to Buy Flowers Place for Buying and Viewing Art Store to Buy the Perfect Gift Surfboard Shaper Surf Shop Wine Selection
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Services on the To-Do List 20 16 19 19 20
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Getting Outside Best... Beach Golf Course Park Place to Take Out-of-Towners Surf Break
Best... Alternative Health Care Provider Barber Shop Car Repair Customer Service Dental Care Provider
Dry Cleaner Gym Hair Salon Jeweler Lodging Manicure & Pedicure Martial Arts Studio Medical Health Care Provider Pet Care & Grooming Pool Supply/Services Spa for Massages, Etc. Tire Shop Yoga/Pilates Studio
THE REGULAR ISSUE
EYE ON SC Top Five News Bites Police Blotter City Calendar SC Navy Officer on His Way to Washington
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SOAPBOX
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GETTING OUT
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SC LIVING
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Photos clockwise from top: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar came away with eight Golden Oles. Photo by Jim Shilander • South of Nick’s wins best margarita. Photo by Brian Park • Villa Cucina carries an eclectic mix. Photo by Brian Park • V’s Barbershop offers old school service. Photo by Brian Park
Tome Blake: On Life and Love After 50 Award Season Escapism
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SPORTS & OUTDOORS Sports Spotlight Triton Report
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SC SURF
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LOCAL NEWS YOU CAN USE
Eateries, Watering Holes and More …
BEST APPETIZERS
Golden Ole Nick’s San Clemente (tie) 213 Avenida Del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com
Open archways looking out on San Clemente’s Avenida Del Mar allow for the seamless melding of ocean air and downtown bustle at Nick’s, where grandma’s Easter creations rise to a new level and truly live up to their “deviled” title. Boiled, gutted, mixed, fried and topped, these eggs along with fried asparagus spears, fire roasted artichokes, sea bass tacos and spicy bloody mary cocktails topped with fried blue cheese olives make Nick’s pre-meal offerings deliciously sinful.—Andrea Papagianis
Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar (tie) 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
Sourcing sustainably farmed oysters from various Virginian growers throughout the year keeps Fisherman’s shucked offerings fresh and consistent. But you won’t get bored, says general manager Bob Novello. Depending on the season, oysters deliver a different flavor profile punch, packed with a delicate texture, a rich zap and salty brine. So, whether you go au natural or top with cocktail sauce and lemon, slurps up.—AP
SILVER Ole The Cellar 156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com NOMINEES: Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Brick Pizzeria • 207 Chop House/Café 207 • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • The Cellar • Daphne’s California Greek • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • El Mariachi • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • La Siesta • Mongkut Thai • New Mandarin Garden • Nomads Canteen • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pizza Port • Rocco’s • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • South of Nick’s • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese • The Shore • The Surferosa Café • The Village Mediterranean Rim • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Nick’s San Clemente
BEST HAPPY HOUR Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
Themed specials reinvent the sunset hours at Fisher-
At Nick’s San Clemente the fried deviled eggs put a delicious new spin on an old favorite. Photo courtesy of Nick’s San Clemente
man’s, reviving weekday warriors overlooking sun-soaked sands. Travel to the tropics with a Mai Tai on Tuesday, south of the border Thursday with protein packed tacos and imported Mexican beers, then top the week off with a Long Island Iced Tea and fish tacos on Fisherman’s Friday. Drink specials, $4 plates and buck-a-shuck oysters run from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. each weekday.—AP
SILVER Ole Sundried Tomato American Bistro 821 Via Suerte, 949.388.5757, www.sundriedtomatocafe.com NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Board & Brew • 207 Chop House/Café 207 • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • Fratello’s Italian Restaurant • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican • Left Coast Brewing • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant • Mulligan’s Sports Bar and Grill • Nick’s San Clemente • Nomads Canteen • OC Tavern • Ole’s Tavern • Outrigger • Pizza Port • Red Fox Lounge • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • South of Nick’s • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Tequila’s Mexican Grill • The Cellar • The Shore • Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Sundried Tomato American Bistro
BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
On one side of the pier Fisherman’s delivers a casual dining experience perfect for a quick bite, happy hour and late night shenanigans. On the other, guests are treated to a more traditional sit-down meal for family outings and special celebrations. Whatever the occasion may be, this oceanfront eatery provides the ideal backdrop from mom-and-tot lunches, Sunday summertime brunches, birthday dinners, just-because meals out and everything in between.—AP
BEST INTERNATIONAL EATS Golden Ole South of Nick’s 110 North El Camino Real, 949.481.4545, www.southofnicks.com
South of Nick’s specializes in traditional Mexican fare served in an upscale setting in downtown San Clemente. The complimentary chips and salsa will have you saying, “Mas, por favor.” But leave some room for their healthy portions of classic favorites, from shrimp ceviche to pork tamales. Go south of the border for dessert, and finish off with caramelized banana flan or helado frito.—BP The pork tamale and chicken enchilada combo at South of Nick’s. Photo by Brian Park
SILVER Ole Mongkut Thai 212 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3871, www.mongkutthaifoods.com
Page 4 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
SILVER Ole Nick’s San Clemente 213 Avenida del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Beach Garden Café • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Board & Brew • Brick Pizzeria • Café 207/ 207 Chop House • Café Del Sol • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Chipotle • El Mariachi Restaurant • Fratello’s Italian Restaurant • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Izza Pizza • La Siesta • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Tiendita • New Mandarin Garden • Mongkut Thai • Nomads Canteen • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pick Up Stix • Pipes Café • Pizza Port • Poke Roll 808 • Rocco’s • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • S.C. Café • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Smash Burger • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • South of Nick’s • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Thai Paradise • The Cellar • The Grill • The Rider’s Club Café • The Shore • The Surferosa Café • Village Mediterranean Rim • Vine • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Nick’s San Clemente; Silver: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
BEST MARGARITA Golden Ole South of Nick’s 110 North El Camino Real, 949.481.4545, www.southofnicks.com
South of Nick’s is San Clemente’s choice, once again, for the best margarita in town. The mixologists at South of Nick’s serve up nine specialty margaritas, from a refreshing cucumber margarita to The Polanco, made with rose-infused tequila. For a drink with an interesting twist, try the Spicy Lover, made with jalapeño-infused tequila and rimmed with Pop Rocks.—Brian Park
SILVER Ole Avila’s El Ranchito 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com NOMINEES: • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Brick Pizzeria • Café 207 • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Tequila’s • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • El Mariachi • Los Patios • Hapa J’s • Iva Lee’s • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Los Patios • Nick’s San Clemente • Red Fox Lounge • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant •The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Shore • Vine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: South of Nick’s; Silver: Avila’s El Ranchito
NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bamboo Bamboo’s Chinese Cuisine • Barnoa Wine Bar • Brick Pizzeria • Café 207 • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • China Well • Daphne’s California Greek • El Jefe • El Mariachi • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • IHOP • Inka Mama’s • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Izza Pizzeria • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Galette Creperie • La Rocco’s Pizza• La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Little Thai Hut • Los Patios • New Mandarin Garden • Miyako • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Nobu Sushi • Nomads Canteen • Pacific Taste • Panda Express • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pick Up Stix • Poke Roll 808 • Rice Temptation • Rocco’s Restaurant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunset’s at the Pier • Super Bowl Express • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar • A Taste of China • Tequilas Mexican Grill • Thai Palace • Thai Paradise •The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Village Mediterranean Rim • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Mongkut Thai; Silver: Village Mediterranean Rim
BEST MENU FOR HEALTHY CHOICES Golden Ole Captain Mauri’s Counterculture 149 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.8098, www.captainmauris.com
This downtown San Clemente staple has been a favorite of the health conscious for many years now. For breakfast, lunch or a quick pick-me-up, Captain Mauri’s offers a slew of fresh and healthy options. Wake up with a bowl of oatmeal topped with fruit and your choice of fresh squeezed fruit or vegetable juices. At lunch, the restaurant offers a variety of fresh, made-to-order salads, sandwiches, wraps and veggie burgers.—BP
SILVER Ole Hanson’s Market 415 East Avenida Pico, 949.218.1690, www.hansonsmarket.com NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Baja Fresh • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Billy’s Meats Seafood & Deli • Board & Brew • Bread Gallery • Brick Pizzeria • Bull Taco • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Chipotle • Cinnamon Productions • Daphne’s California Greek • Edible Arrangements • Ellie’s Table • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Juice It Up • Juice Stop • Kultured Kitchen • Nick’s • Nomads Canteen • North Beach Nutrition • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Poke Roll 808 • Rice Temptation • S.C. Café • Smash Burger • South of Nick’s • Stella Lucy • Stillwater Café • Subway • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Rider’s Club Café • The Shore • The Surferosa Café • Village Mediterranean Rim • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Captain Mauri’s; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
BEST CUP OF COFFEE OR TEA Golden Ole Zebra House Coffee 1001 South El Camino Real, 949.218.6976
The eggs benedict is a popular breakfast choice at Antoine’s Café, said manager Veronica Price. Here, the dish is served up with a hot cup of mocha. Photo by Brian Park
BEST BREAKFAST
BEST BREAKFAST BURRITO
Golden Ole Antoine’s Cafe
Golden Ole Pedro’s Tacos
218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com
2313 South El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908, www.pedrostacos.com
Antoine’s manager Veronica Price said a mix of classic breakfast dishes and unique California flavors bring breakfast fans from all over the city to Antoine’s daily. Price points to unique offerings like their breakfast crepe and vegetarian breakfast burrito, as well as classics like eggs benedict as some popular favorites.—Jim Shilander
SILVER Ole Café Mimosa 243 Avenida Del Mar, 949.481.6780, www.cafemimosasc.com NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Avila’s El Ranchito • Beach Garden Café • Bull Taco • Café Calypso • Café Rae • Café del Sol • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carrows • Cinnamon Productions • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Denny’s • Ellie’s Table • Hapa J’s • IHOP • La Gallette Creperie • La Siesta • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipes Café • Rose Donuts & Café • Rose’s Sugar Shack Café • S.C. Café • S.C. Donuts • South of Nick’s • Sunrise Café • Sunsets at the Pier • Surfin’ Donuts • The Bagel Shack • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • The Surferosa Café • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Antoine’s Café; Silver: The Grill
BEST BAGEL Golden Ole The Bagel Shack 777 South El Camino Real, 949.388.0745, www.thebagelshack.com
For six years in a row, these made-fresh-daily bagels have taken home the annual Golden Ole Award. Offering 19 different varieties—including jalapeño cheddar, cinnamon raisin and sun-dried tomato—18 bagel spreads, smoothies, assorted breakfast and lunch bagel sandwiches and specialty coffees, this epicenter of bagel bliss opens daily at 5:30 a.m.—Robyn Wyman-Dill
SILVER Ole Kaylani Coffee 1844 North El Camino Real, 949.492.5016 NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Antoine’s Café • Café Calypso • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Cinnamon Productions • Panera Bread • Rose Donuts & Café • Sugar Shack • Surfin’ Donuts • The Grill • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Bagel Shack; Silver: The Grill
Pedro’s has won the heart of the city’s breakfast fans as well as its taco aficionados. A variety of traditional breakfast favorites all manage to find their way into the eatery’s tortillas, including eggs, hash browns, sausage, bacon and peppers. And a drive-through window helps morning commuters get their fix.—JS
SILVER Ole The Grill 202 North El Camino Real, 949.492.8450
Barista Dan Murillo says explaining the appeal of Zebra House Coffee isn’t difficult. “We serve really good quality coffee and have goods that we bake fresh daily,” he said. Zebra House also offers chai teas and gluten-free baked treats. That emphasis on quality and a friendly staff has made Zebra House a back-to-back Ole Award winner.—JS
SILVER Ole Starbucks 300 South El Camino Real, 949.369.9520, 1001 Avenida Pico, 949.369.5649, 638 Camino de los Mares, 949.496.5900, www.starbucks.com NOMINEES: 7-Eleven • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Beach Garden Café • Café Calypso • Café Del Sol • Café Expresso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cinnamon Productions • Denny’s • Ellie’s Table • IHOP • Inka Mama’s • Kaylani Coffee • Kelly’s Donuts • La Gallette Creperie • Lavender Lounge • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Peet’s Coffee and Tea • Pipes Café • Red Fox Lounge • Rose Donuts & Café • S.C. Café • S.C. Donuts • Sonny’s • Sugar Blossom Bake Shop • Sunrise Café • Surfin’ Donuts • Thai Palace • The Bagel Shack • The Donut House • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • The Surferosa Café 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Zebra House Coffee; Silver: Starbucks
NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • The Bagel Shack • The Grill • Baja Fresh • Beach Garden Café • Billy’s Meats Seafood and Deli • Board & Brew • Bull Taco • Café Calypso • Café del Sol • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carl’s Jr. • Chipotle • Chronic Taco • Cinnamon Productions • El Mariachi • Hanson’s Market • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Kelly’s Donuts • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Siesta • La Tiendita • Las Golondrinas • McDonald’s • Mr. Pete’s • OC Tavern • Pier Shack & Grill • Pipes Café • Rose Donuts & Café • S.C. Café • S.C. Donuts • South of Nick’s • Sunrise Café • Surfin’ Donuts • Taco Bell • Tommy’s Family Restaurant 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Grill; Silver: Pedro’s Tacos
BEST DONUT Golden Ole Surfin’ Donuts 1822 South El Camino Real, 949.492.1249
From old fashioneds and long johns to cake donuts and fritters, Surfin’ Donuts has been a perennial favorite among Ole Award voters. Favorites include the tiger’s tail twist and a wide variety of filled treats. Its location just off Interstate 5, along with a variety of other menu options and fresh coffee, makes Surfin’ a tempting stop before the morning commute.—JS
SILVER Ole S.C. Donuts 806 East Avenida Pico, Ste. G, 949.498.7837 NOMINEES: Cinnamon Productions • Donut House • Kelly’s Donuts • Pipes Café • Ralphs • Rose Donuts & Café • Starbucks • Rose’s Sugar Shack Café • S.C. Café • The Bagel Shack • The Grill 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Surfin’ Donuts; Silver: S.C. Donuts
Zebra House Coffee serves up their hot and cold drinks, as well as fresh baked goods, with a smile, making it San Clemente’s choice for best cup of coffee or tea. Photo by Brian Park
www.sanclementetimes.com | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | Page 7
BEST TACO Golden Ole Pedro’s Tacos 2313 South El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908. www.pedrostacos.com
Pedro’s keeps its throne as the city’s favorite taco by providing consistency and a wide variety of options, including popular shrimp, fish and potato options, to go along with more traditional fixings. Two locations near some of the city’s busiest surf areas have made it a popular stop among beachgoers for more than 25 years.—JS
SILVER Ole La Siesta Mexican Restaurant 920 North El Camino Real, 949.498.3094, www.lasiestasanclemente.com NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Baja Fresh • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Bull Taco • Café del Sol • Chipotle • Chronic Taco • Del Taco • El Jefe • El Mariachi • Hapa J’s • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Tiendita • Las Golondrinas • Los Patios • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Nick’s San Clemente • Nomads Canteen • OC Tavern • Pipes Café • Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill • South of Nick’s • Surfin’ Chicken • Tequila’s • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • The Surferosa Café • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: La Siesta Mexican Restaurant
BEST LUNCH SPOT Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar The Rider’s Club Café has a loyal following in San Clemente and has been voted the best burger in town all four years it’s been eligible. Hungry patrons can customize their burgers with their choice of premium toppings. Photo by Brian Park
BEST BURGER Golden Ole The Rider’s Club Café 1701 North El Camino Real, 949.388.3758, www.ridersclubcafe.com
The Rider’s Club is now four-for-four as San Clemente’s choice for best burger. This unassuming burger spot has a devoted local following and regularly draws hungry mouths from all of south Orange County. All burgers are made with natural beef, ground in-house, and can be customized to taste with six cheese options and extras like bacon, avocado or a fried egg.—BP
SILVER Ole The Habit 638 Camino De Los Mares, 949.488.7826, www.habitburger.com NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Beach Garden Café • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Bistro 311 • Burger Junkies • Burger Stop • Café Mimosa • Carl’s Jr. • Carrows • Del Taco • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • Humphry’s • Hapa J’s • La Siesta • McDonald’s • Mr. Pete’s Burgers • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern • Rocco’s • Rose Donuts & Café • Rose’s Sugar Shack Café • Smashburger • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Surfin’ Donuts • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • The Surferosa Café • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Riders Club Café; Silver: Biggie’s Burgers & More
611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
Each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday finds Fisherman’s staff in Los Angeles picking up fresh fish from across the globe. Responsibly sourced seafood from Ecuador, Tahiti, the Philippines and beyond, finds its way to patrons’ plates after chefs expertly highlight the natural flavors of the fish, said manager Bob Novello. With seafront seating and palate-pleasing cuisine, Fisherman’s has reclaimed its long-standing lunchtime title.—AP
SILVER Ole Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.9386, www.thecafecalypso.com NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Beach Garden Café • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Billy’s Meat Seafood & Deli • Board and Brew • Bread Gallery • Brick Pizzeria • Bull Taco • Burger Stop • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • The Cellar • Chipotle • Cinnamon Productions • Daphne’s California Greek • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • Ellie’s Table • El Pollo Loco • Guicho’s Eatery • Hanson’s Market • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Ichibiri • Inka Mama’s • Kultured Kitchen • La Gallete Creperie • La Tiendita • La Siesta • LaRocco’s Pizza • Las Golondrinas • Little Thai Hut • Los Patios • Mongkut Thai • Mr. Pete’s • New Mandarin Garden • Nick’s San Clemente • Nomads Canteen • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pipes Café • Pizza Port • Poke Roll 808 • Rice Temptation • Rocco’s Restaurant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Rose Donuts & Café • San Clemente Wine Company • S.C. Café • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • South of Nick’s • Stillwater Café • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunrise Café • Sunsets at the Pier • Surfin’ Donuts • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Bagel Shack • The Cellar • The Grill • The Habit • The Rider’s Club Café • The Shore • The Surferosa Café • Tina and Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Vine • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zebra House Coffee • ZPizza 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Board & Brew; Silver: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
Lunchtime crowds at Board & Brew are willing to wait for their tasty sandwiches. Who can blame them? Quality meats, freshbaked bread and secret sauces make Board & Brew a go-to option for many San Clemente residents. Photo by Brian Park
BEST SANDWICH Golden Ole Board & Brew 979 Avenida Pico, 949.498.2739, www.boardandbrew.com
“We do things the old-fashioned way,” Board & Brew co-owner Brett Crutchfield says, “Meaning everything is made fresh daily.” Using oven-roasted turkey and chicken meats, locally sourced avocados, fresh-baked breads, soups made from scratch, secret sauces and marinades, this soup and sandwich shop knows its good quality ingredients keep customers coming back for more.—RWD
SILVER Ole Billy’s Meats Seafood & Deli 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5924, www.downtownsanclemente.com/billysmeats NOMINEES: BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Beach Garden Café • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Bread Gallery • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Cinnamon Productions • Ellie’s Table • Guicho’s Eatery • Hanson’s Market • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Kelly’s Donuts • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • Kultured Kitchen • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Pipes Café • Red Fox Lounge • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Smashburger • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stillwater Café • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts • The Bagel Shack • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • The Habit • The Riders Club Café • The Shore • Rocco’s Restaurant • Tina and Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Board & Brew; Silver: Billy’s Meats Seafood & Deli
BEST PIZZA Golden Ole La Rocco’s Pizza 122 South El Camino Real, 949.366.8890, www.laroccospizzaonline.com
La Rocco’s made a move across El Camino Real in 2013, but that didn’t make a difference for voters, who have named the restaurant’s New York-style pies as the city’s best pizza for the last four years running. San Clemente has fallen in love with the restaurant’s wide variety of unique thin-crust offerings, many named for different New York boroughs.—JS
SILVER Ole Pizza Port 301 North El Camino Real, 949.940.0005, www.pizzaport.com NOMINEES: 2 for 1 Pizza • Beach Cities Pizza • Brick Pizzeria • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Domino’s Pizza • Fratello’s Italian Restaurant • Italian Cravings • Izza Pizza • OC Tavern • Papa John’s • Papa Murphy’s • Pizza Hut • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Round Table Pizza • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stuft Pizza • Surfside Pizza • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • ZPizza 2012 WINNERS: Gold: La Rocco’s Pizza; Silver: Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta
San Clemente residents will feel like they’re in the Big Apple, once they bite into a classic, New York-style pepperoni pizza at La Rocco’s. Photo by Brian Park
Page 8 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
Be it for lunch or dinner, the sashimi and sushi plate is a popular choice at 9 Style Sushi. Sushi Chef “Q” and his staff work swiftly to put out dishes that are as easy on the eyes as they are on the palate. Photo by Brian Park
BEST SUSHI Golden Ole 9 Style Sushi 102 Avenida Victoria, 949.366.3669
This intimate sushi spot draws large dinner crowds. Our advice: Get there early, especially on the weekend. Dinner is served nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and lunch from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 9 Style serves up creative options as beautiful as they are delicious. Feeling adventurous? Try uni and uzura, or sea urchin and quail egg. And don’t miss the ever popular Garlic 9 Roll.—AP
SILVER Ole Taka-O Japanese Restaurant 425 North El Camino Real, 949.498.7111. www.taka-orestaurant.com NOMINEES: Hapa J’s • Ichibiri • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • Nobu Sushi • Nomads Canteen • Poke Roll 808 • Rice Temptation • Super Bowl Express • Sushi Sono • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant 2012 WINNERS: Gold: 9 Style Sushi; Silver: Taka-O Japanese Restaurant
BEST
RESTAURANT FOR A DATE/ ROMANTIC EVENING
Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
BEST SPOT TO CURE A SWEET TOOTH Golden Ole Active Culture Natural Foods Café +
Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt
SILVER Ole Nick’s San Clemente
213 Avenida del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com NOMINEES: Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Board & Brew • Brick Pizzeria • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Mongkut Thai • New Mandarin Garden • Pedro’s Tacos • Rice Temptation • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Clemente Wine Company • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • South of Nick’s • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Tequila’s Chop House & Cantina • Thai Paradise • The Cellar • The Surferosa Café • Village Mediterranean Rim • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Vine
Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
Active Culture owner Faye Clapp says the taste and quality of her store’s yogurt has continued to make it a San Clemente favorite. With a rebranding of the store, formerly Velvet Yogurt, she hopes to keep that going for years to come. As Active Culture, the store’s offerings have increased to include more gluten-free, vegan and fresh fruit smoothie options.—JS
A quick glance at Fisherman’s cocktail menu and the restaurant’s connection to the Pacific—and the northwest—are apparent. With the Pier 57 Cosmopolitan, Elliot Bay Black Orchid Tea and Rainy Haze cocktails, Fisherman’s stays true to its Seattle roots, but its sister pier locale to the south is all San Clemente. Clear skies, cool winds, crashing waves and top-notch cocktails for a bargain keep locals coming back for more.—AP
SILVER Ole Baskin Robbins
SILVER Ole Nick’s San Clemente
111 S. El Camino Real, 949.276.4625, www.activeculturecafe.com
104 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.2440, www.baskinrobbins.com
213 Avenida del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com
NOMINEES: BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Café Mimosa • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Cinnamon Productions • ColdStone Creamery • Dreamy Sweets Pastries • Edible Arrangements • Ellie’s Table • Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt • Hanson’s Market • Inka Mama’s • Kelly’s Donuts • La Gallette Creperie • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • One More Bite Bakery • Rite Aid/Thrifty’s • Rocket Fizz • Rose Donuts & Café • Rose’s Sugar Shack Café • San Clemente Wine Company • San Clemente Yogurt • S.C. Donuts • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • South of Nick’s • Sugar Blossom Bake Shop • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Grill • Trader Joe’s • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt; Silver: Schmid’s Fine Chocolates
NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Board & Brew • Brick Pizzeria • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Left Coast Brewing • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Nomads Canteen • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Pizza Port • Red Fox Lounge • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • South of Nicks • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Tequila’s • The Cellar • The Riders Club Café • The Shore • Vine • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: Nick’s San Clemente
611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
With colorful hues gracing San Clemente’s skyline as the sun sets and the rumbling of waves below, Fisherman’s picturesque pier locale has helped it top our “Best of” list for the sixth straight year. Toast your sweetheart with an offering from this local favorite’s deep wine, beer and cocktail lists before diving into an aptly name “Fisherman’s Feast,” a four-course, family-style meal meant to be shared amongst loved ones.—AP
BEST BAR
BEST BILLIARDS Golden Ole Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill 204 South El Camino Real, 949.481.2040, www.dukesgriddlengrill.com
Duke’s is the spot for San Clemente’s pool sharks to work their cues. From casual players to die-hard enthusiasts, Duke’s provides a relaxing atmosphere where pool junkies can relax with a drink or have a bite in between playing the angles on the felt. Duke’s features two pool tables, and on Sundays, you can get one game for free.—BP
SILVER Ole Mulligan’s Sports Bar 1401 Calle Valle, 949.492.4400, www.mulligansbarsanclemente.com NOMINEES: Big Helyn’s Saloon • Goody’s Tavern • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Outrigger • Red Fox Lounge • Sunsets at the Pier • The Shore 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill; Silver: Knuckleheads Sports Bar
Page 10 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
BEST VENUE FOR LIVE MUSIC Golden Ole Iva Lee’s 555 North El Camino Real, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com
Iva Lee’s management, led by owner Eric Wagoner, made good on last year’s promise to expand the live music lounge making for a more comfortable setting for everyone. Now Wagoner’s taken it to another level, pairing the best in blues and jazz with wife Lisa’s sensational Creole and southern cooking.—RWD
SILVER Ole The Cellar 156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Cabrillo Playhouse • Casa Romantica • Concerts on the Beach/Pier • Duke’s Griddle ‘n’ Grill • Goody’s Tavern • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant • Nomads Canteen • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • San Clemente Wine Company • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Shore • Zebra House Coffee • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Iva Lee’s; Silver: BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill
At the Shops... BEST ANTIQUES Golden Ole San Clemente Antiques 214 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.2992, www.downtownsanclemente.com/sanclementeantiques
“We are a blend of old with new with something for everyone on your gift list,” said owner Brenda Foster. Her well-chosen collection includes everything from antique and costume jewelry, vintage accessories and one-of-akind collectibles, to a $12,000 diamond ring and Snoopy memorabilia. “We also offer gift wrapping—especially appealing to our male customers,” Foster said.—RWD
SILVER Ole Stanford Court Antiques 106 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6290, www.stanfordcourtantiques.com NOMINEES: Christopher-Lee Ltd. • Icons of Surf • iHope Treasures • La Casa Verde de Granada • La Tienda Thrift Store • Mak & Jill’s Abode • Paradise Jewelers • Plum Precious Antiques • Reclamation • ReFinds Consignment Shop 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Antiques; Silver: La Casa Verde de Granada
BEST CLOTHING Golden Ole Melrose in the OC 144-A Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.0561, www.melroseintheoc.com
Kristina Waisner Sitzmann says her store’s motto “fashion forward clothing, with prices for today’s economy” is the hallmark of Melrose in the OC. She also says the store takes pride in consistently turning over new
Kristina Waisner Sitzmann and her mother Marie Waisner have brought fashion forward clothing at reasonable prices to San Clemente, with their boutique, Melrose in the OC. Photo by Brian Park
inventory weekly, in order to provide the best possible shopping experience and giving customers something new all the time.—JS
SILVER Ole Angel Wings 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.5258, www.downtownsanclemente.com/angel_wings_san_clemente NOMINEES: 5 for $10 T-Shirts • BC Surf Shop • Bijou • Bliss Boutique • Blue Eyed Girl • Bunny’s Secret • Café Rae • F.I.T.S & Fashion • Heavenly Couture • Hobie Surf Shop • Icons of Surf • Jack’s Surfers’ Outlet • Johnny D’s • La Tienda Thrift Store • Lincoln Street Boutique • Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique • Rascal’s Ladies Over & Underwear • Republik of Kalifornia • Revival • Ritual • Rip Curl • Roulette Clothing • Salon Zinnia & Lifestyle Boutique • Salvation Army • Sunny Days • Sweeet Repeeet • Swirl Boutique • Target • The Warehouse • Trestles Surf Outlet • Variant • Walmart 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Lincoln Street Boutique; Silver: Angel Wings
BEST HOME DÉCOR AND FURNISHINGS Golden Ole Villa Cucina 124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com
In every direction, something at Villa Cucina catches your eye. For the kitchen, it’s a full line of Culinary Institute of America cutlery and cookware. For home accents, it’s assorted wall art, lamps, textiles and cushions. For the table, it’s a fine selection of dishware and placemats. No wonder Villa Cucina’s gold status remains undisputed year after year.—RWD
SILVER Ole Luxe Home Furnishings 210 North El Camino Real, 949.218.4700 NOMINEES: Backstreet Home Décor • Bamboo and Beyond • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • Consignment Design Concepts • Denault’s Hardware • ERBA • Flair Lighting • iHope Treasures • La Casa Verde de Granada • La Tienda Thrift Store • Lowes • Mak & Jill’s Abode • Pier 1 Imports • Reclamation • ReFinds Consignment Shop • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Salvation Army • Sofas by Design • South Coast Furniture & Mattress • Stanford Court Antiques • Target 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Luxe Home Furnishings
BEST
PLACE FOR BUYING OR VIEWING ART
Golden Ole San Clemente Art Gallery at the
Community Center
100 North Calle Seville, 949.361.8264, www.paintsanclemente.com
A variety of mediums and frequent and diverse art shows make the San Clemente Art Gallery a favorite, volunteer Sylvia Sinclair said. During her time monitoring the gallery, Sinclair says she frequently hears from visitors from all across the country who love taking in the work of the San Clemente Art Association.—JS
SILVER Ole Gallery 104 166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.0903, www.gallery104.com
Volunteers with the San Clemente Art Association staff the San Clemente Art Gallery in the Community Center. The gallery features award-winning pieces, from paintings to photography collections, by local and regional artists. Photo by Brian Park Page 12 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
NOMINEES: BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Casa Romantica • C’Siren Day Spa • Jennifer Joyce Ceramic Arts • Kona Gallery • La Casa Verde de Granada • Living Art Gallery Tattoo Lounge • North Beach Art Walk • Reclamation • Rick Delanty Studio & Gallery • San Clemente Wine Company • Syrens Hair Parlor • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Mint Fine Art Gallery • THUMP Gallery • Villa Cucina • Village Art Fair • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Art Gallery at the Community Center; Silver: The Kona Gallery
Mac & Madi owner Corey Bauman has added more than 20 new lines to the store after relocating in 2013. Photo by Jim Shilander
BEST KIDS APPAREL & TOYS Golden Ole Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6226, www.macandmadikids.com
Moving to a new location in 2013 gave Mac & Madi owner Corey Bauman the chance to reboot her business. So far, she says customers have responded well to the 20 new clothing and toy lines now offered at the larger location. “It’s been great, every single person who comes in says ‘It’s so beautiful in here,’” Bauman said.—JS
SILVER Ole Petit Bonhomme 147 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.3651, www.downtownsanclemente.com/petitbonhomme NOMINEES: Café Rae • Coral Thrift Store • Hobie Surf Shop • Jack’s Surfers’ Outlet • OC Tykes • Rip Curl • Target • Tiny Turnip • Tuesday Morning • Walmart 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique; Silver: Target
BEST JEWELRY Golden Ole Paradise Jewelers 808 North El Camino Real, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com
Paradise Jewelers owner Rick Dunning says variety is a key to making the store the city’s favorite. The jeweler offers an enormous selection of antique jewelry pieces and a large inventory of Gemological Institute of America certified loose diamonds. The shop also has a large variety of brand-name, high-end Swiss watches, which Dunning says helps to broaden the appeal for the shop.—JS
SILVER Ole Erba 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com NOMINEES: Ally’s Baubles • Angel Wings • Asana Fit • Avenue Accents • Bliss Boutique • Celeste Gomez • Christy Quiggle Accessories • Del Mar Beauty Supply • Designs by Nature • Eyeland Lash • F.I.T.S. & Fashion • Fifi Lala • Fresh Produce • Gail Ream • Heavenly Couture • Hobie Surf Shop • J. Toma Designs • Jewelry Forever • Lincoln Street Boutique • Mak & Jill’s Abode • Melrose in the OC • On the Rocks Jewelers • Paradise II • Plum Precious • Revival • Ritual • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Art Gallery • Sand & Sea Jewelry
• Seaside Skin Care • Sunny Days • Sweeet Repeeet • Swirl Boutique • The Third Eye • THUMP Gallery • Variant • Villa Cucina 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Paradise II Boutique; Silver: Paradise Jewelers
BEST WINE SELECTION
BEST ARTS AND CRAFT SUPPLIES Golden Ole San Clemente Art Supply & Framing 1531 North El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com
It just keeps getting better and better at SCAS&F. Along with their expansive art supply inventory and bright studio space for adult and children’s art classes, owners Richard and Patti Herdell have added a larger workspace for custom framing. Many products can be purchased online through their website with better pricing than the big-box stores.—RWD
SILVER Ole Michaels 937 Avenida Pico, 949.940.0465, www.michaels.com NOMINEES: Fired Up Paint Your Own Ceramics Studio • Mak & Jill’s Abode • Russell Stationers • Strands Knitting Studio • The Third Eye • Walmart 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Art Supply & Framing; Silver: Michaels
BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS Golden Ole Flowers and Friends 1844 North El Camino Real, 949.366.9150, www.flowersandfriendssanclemente.com
Keith Jones says staying true to the same simple values have produced a generation of loyal customers at Flowers and Friends. Jones said providing high quality flowers, consistent and knowledgeable service and fair prices have made the flower shop a San Clemente staple for 23 years and counting.—JS
SILVER Ole Enchanted Fine Florals 157 Avenida Granada, 949.429.5550, www.enchantedfineflorals.com NOMINEES: Albertsons • Backstreet Home Décor • Beach City Florist • Downtown Flowers • Flower Company of San Clemente • Inga’s Bloom • Kimberly’s Flowers • Ralphs • San Clemente Farmer’s Market • The San Clemente Florist • Trader Joe’s • Wildflower Florist 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Flowers and Friends; Silver: Downtown Flowers
A glass of Belle Glos pinot noir is perfectly paired with a Spanish board of meats, cheeses and figs at The Cellar. Photo by Brian Park
Golden Ole The Cellar 156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com
The Cellar provides the wine lover in any party something to be excited about. They have over 50 different wines to choose from, but what makes The Cellar so popular is their wine by the glass option. Instead of getting stuck with paying for a whole bottle of premium wine, guests have the option of experiencing more variety, one glass at a time. Their wine flight program, which features three rotating wines, is also a crowd favorite. —Steve Breazeale
SILVER Ole San Clemente Wine Company 212-1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com NOMINEES: Albertsons • Barnoa Wine Bar • Bob’s Fine Wines • 207 Chop House/Café 207• Carbonara’s Trattoria • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • Iva Lee’s • Nick’s San Clemente • Ralphs • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Trader Joe’s • Village Mediterranean Rim 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Cellar; Silver: San Clemente Wine Company
www.sanclementetimes.com | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | Page 15
BEST SURF/SUP SHOP Golden Ole Hobie Surf Shop 151 Avenida Del Mar, 949.542.3400, 100 S. El Camino Real, 949.542.3355, www.hobie.com
With two locations in the heart of San Clemente, the staff at Hobie Surf Shop continues to share the name, brand and lifestyle made famous by its namesake, Hobie Alter, more than 60 years ago. From vintage-logo tees and colorful bikinis to Billabong board shorts and stand-up paddleboards, bodyboards, skimboards and surfboards, Hobie has all the ingredients for a great day at the beach.—AP
SILVER Ole BC Surf Shop 222 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.9085, www.shopbcsurf.com NOMINEES: Basham’s Surf Shop • Brawner Boards • Catalyst • Coolbreaze Boardworks • Dewey Weber Factory Showroom • eBodyboarding • Icons of Surf • Jack’s Surfers’ Outlet • Noll Surfboards & Gallery • Republik of Kalifornia • Rip Curl • Riviera Paddlesurf • San Clemente Surfboards and Art • Stewart Surfboards • T. Patterson Surfboards • Terry Senate Surfboards • Trestles Surf Outlet • UsedSurf at The Warehouse 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Surf Shop; Silver: Stewart Surfboards
Legendary surfboard shaper Timmy Patterson uses a planer to carve out a custom board. Photo by Brian Park
BEST SURFBOARD SHAPER Golden Ole Timmy Patterson, T. Patterson
Surfboards
1409 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022
For 35 years, Timmy Patterson has shaped thousands of boards for local groms and pipeline gurus worldwide. But it is the local surfers that Patterson credits with shaping his career, “We have the most influential surfers in the world right here in San Clemente, it’s amazing,” he said. While his skills and operation have taken him across the globe—most recently to Bali, Costa Rica and Portugal—Patterson said there is nothing like being home.—AP
SILVER Ole Matt Biolos, Lost, Mayhem 1755 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.5721, www.catalystshop.com
In surf-crazy San Clemente, Hobie Surf Shop is the place to go for surfing clothes, accessories and gear. Photo by Brian Park
Services on the To-Do List … BEST DRY CLEANER
Golden Ole Bonded Cleaners 1221 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.1183, www.bonded-cleaners.com
Locals have been bringing their dry cleaning to place in the hands of Bonded Cleaners since 1982. The popular cleaners have built a brand around quick, consistent and high quality service. Bonded Cleaners offers a 10 percent discount to those who pay at drop-off, a discount that has made them popular around town.—SB
SILVER Ole K & S Cleaners 114 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.5424, www.sanclementedrycleaners.com NOMINEES: Baroni Cleaners • Celebrity Cleaners • Cleaners 2000 • El Camino Cleaners • Lucky’s Dry Cleaners • Nelson’s Cleaners • Pico Cleaners • Presidio Cleaners • Sea Point Cleaners • Seaside Cleaners • Silver Dry Cleaners • Sunny Fresh Cleaners • Talega Dry Cleaners 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Bonded Cleaners; Silver: K & S Cleaners
NOMINEES: BC Surf Shop • Bill Stewart • Brad Howe • Brian Bulkley • Christian Wach/Canvas Surfboards • Cole Simler/Cole Surfboards • Coolbreaze Boardworks • Damien Brawner/Brawner Boards • Donald Brink/Brink Surfboards • Dev • Fred Heesy/Tootgundy Surfboards • Garth Day/G.Day Surfboards • Gary Larson • Hamish Graham, Superstix • Herbie Fletcher • Hobie Surfboards • Icons of Surf •Jed Noll • John Robertson/Robo • Kaysen • Maurice Agnello/Edit Surfboards • Maurice Gyenes/Move or Die • Paul Carter • Ron House/RWorld • Ryan Engel/ Nation Surfboards • Steve Boehne/Infinity Surfboards • Terry Senate • Tim Marshall/Midget Smith Surfboards • The Boehne Bros. 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Timmy Patterson /T. Patterson Surfboards; Silver: Cole Simler/Cole Surfboards
BEST STORE TO BUY THE PERFECT GIFT Golden Ole Paradise II Boutique 201 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6662, www.paradisejewelers.com
Husband and wife duo Rick and Debbie Dunning started their first jewelry business in Ohio. The pair “retired” to San Clemente, but the jewelry bug had bitten Rick, a longtime jeweler, and his business—and life—partner Debbie. Now, the pair owns a duet of downtown San Clemente jewelry shops, with Rick handling the gold and diamonds, and Debbie, the perfect silver gifts from across the globe.—AP
SILVER Ole Erba 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Asana Fit Yoga • Bamboo and Beyond • Basham’s Surf Factory • Bunny’s Secrets • C’ Siren Day Spa • Café Rae • California Cove Designs • Catalyst Surf Shop • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • Cottage Bliss • CVS Pharmacy • Del Mar Beauty Supply • DeNault’s True Value Hardware • Enchanted Fine Florals • Eyeland Lash • F.I.T.S. & Fashion • Hobie Surf Shop • iHope Treasures • Irish Eyes • Jennifer Joyce Ceramic Arts • Kelly’s Hallmark Shop • Kona Gallery • La Casa Verde de Granada • La Tienda Thrift Store • Lincoln Street Boutique • Luxe Home Furnishings • Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique • Mak & Jill’s Abode • Melrose in the OC • Mermaids • Oliver’s Olive Oil and Balsamic Tasting Gallery • Pier 1 • Plum Precious • Reclamation • Re-Finds Consignments • Revival • Rocket Fizz • Russell Stationers • Salon Bleu • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Art Gallery at the Community Center • San Clemente Wine Company • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Seaside Skin Care • Stanford Court Antiques • Sunny Days • Sweeet Repeeet • Swirl Boutique • Talega Day Spa • Target • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • The Third Eye • Tuesday Morning • Variant • Villa Cucina 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Erba
BEST HAIR SALON
BEST BARBER SHOP
Golden Ole Salon Bamboo
Golden Ole V’s Barbershop
150 Avenida Del Mar, Suite A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
802 Avenida Talega Suite 105, 949.429.7770, www.vbarbershop.com
“We love what we do,” Salon Bamboo owner Jamie Springer says with conviction. After 10 years of building customer satisfaction with consistency, the remodeled salon is growing their beauty product lines to include brand new styling products by Keratase. Open seven days a week, Salon Bamboo stylists specialize in color, cuts, hair extensions and beauty treatments in a friendly environment.—RWD
For the fifth straight year, V’s Barbershop is San Clemente’s choice for best barbershop in town. V’s offers old school services with old school charm. “You come in here and everybody knows your name,” owner John Renaud said. In addition to haircuts, V’s offers hot lather shaves, facials, face massages and beard and mustache trimming.—BP
SILVER Ole Salon Incognito
SILVER Ole The Señor Barber
119 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.1218, www.salonincognito.com
401 S. El Camino Real, Suite F, 949.361.0762, www.thesenorbarber.com
NOMINEES: Alicia’s Barber & Styling Salon • Clips ‘n Curls • D’Vine Salon & Spa • Ermanno DeVito Hair Studio • Hair Affair • Hair Sculptors Salon & Spa • Hairwaves Beauty Salon • Head Games Salon • Look Hair & Makeup Studio • Ma Jolie • Modest Spot Salon • R Tistic • Revival • Salon 221 • Salon Bleu • Salon Incognito • Salon Real • Salon Rendez-Vous • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Sanctuary Salon by Cha • Shake It Hair Design • Syrens Hair Parlor • The Haircutters • Toba Salon • Trade Winds Hair Salon 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique; Silver: Salon Bamboo
NOMINEES: A Cut Above • Alicia’s Barber Shop • Beach Cities Barber Shop • Beachcomber Barber Shop • Downtown Barber Shop • Fantastic Sam’s • Jerry’s Barber Shop • Neptune’s Den Cuts for Men • Popeye’s For Hair • Ray’s Barber Place • Revival • Salon Bamboo • Salon Bleu • Salon Incognito • Salon Zinnia • Sanctuary Salon by Cha • Shore Cliff Barber Shop • Sport Clips • Supercuts • Syrens Hair Parlor 2012 WINNERS: Gold: V’s Barbershop; Silver: The Señor Barber
Page 16 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
BEST CAR REPAIR Golden Ole Shadetree Automotive 1635 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6470, www.shadetreeautorepairsanclemente.com
Expert services, quality staff and a willingness to make things right when they go wrong makes Shadetree Automotive the city’s favorite car repair shop. “We treat people like we want to be treated,” owner Paul Huffman said. “From the counter staff to our certified technicians, we try to employ highly qualified people and always do right by our customers.”—JS
SILVER Ole El Camino Automotive and Tire Center 145 Avenida Navarro, 800.696.8335, www.elcaminoauto.com NOMINEES: Advanced Auto • Arnold’s Auto Repair • Auto Medic • Bill Brewster Automotive • Bob’s Auto Repair • Carlos Auto Repair • Coastline Automotive • Courtesy Automotive Services • Dave Wert Automotive • El Camino Automotive • Firestone Complete Auto Care • Frank’s Collision • Holley’s Tire Services • Jay’s Car Repair • Jimenez Auto Repair • Littlepage Automotive • Luna Auto Repair • San Clemente Auto Collision • San O Mechanic • Sergio’s Advanced Auto Service • Shorecliff’s Auto Services • Star Tech Motors • Victoria Auto Repair • West Coast Automotive Specialists 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Shadetree Automotive; Silver: Jay’s Car Repair
BEST TIRE SHOP The crew at Holley’s Tire Service has been serving San Clemente motorists for more than 50 years and has developed a loyal customer base. They, along with Jimmy’s Tire Center on Avenida Pico, are the best San Clemente has to offer in tire service. Photo by Brian Park
Golden Ole Holley’s Tire Service (tie) 1225 North El Camino Real, 949.492.4733
Serving San Clemente for more than 50 years, Holley’s owners pride themselves on providing San Clemente with the best products and services—their motto even says so. With long standing customers taking advantage of Holley’s tire specialists’ years of knowledge for repairs, replacements and rotations, it’s no wonder the service stop has remained a consistent contender on the annual Golden Ole list.—AP
Golden Ole Jimmy’s Tire Center (tie) 911 Avenida Pico, 949.492.4500, www.jimmystirecenters.com
The staff at SC Pool and Spa Works uses their extensive experience and knowledge to service pools all over San Clemente and into neighboring cities. Photo by Brian Park
BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefi shermansrestaurant.com
“Our entire team has to be commended for the awards,” said manager Bob Novello. From behind the scenes maintenance crews keeping beachside tables looking new and dishwashers ensuring every last utensil is polished, the public’s nod to Fisherman’s customer service comes from everyone being held to the highest of standards, Novello said. “It’s awesome the public has recognized that we have the best program around,” he added.—AP
SILVER Ole Paradise Jewelers 808 North El Camino Real, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com NOMINEES: 5 Elements Spa • 99¢ Only Store • Active Culture Natural Foods Café + Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Albertson’s • Angel Wings • Antoine’s Café• Artwistic Creations • Avila’s El Ranchito • Barnoa Wine Bar • Baskin Robbins • Bayside Window Cleaning • Beach Cities Barbershop • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Bikram Yoga • Billy’s Meats Seafood and Deli • Blacksmith Mfg. • Bliss Boutique • Board and Brew • Bonded Cleaners • Bunny’s Secrets • CB Cyclebarn • C’Siren Day Spa • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Catalyst Surf Shop • Chiropractic Center • Coolbreaze Boardworks • Cotton ‘n’ Stuff • Cox Communications • CVS • Dave Cook’s Golf Shop at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course • Del Mar Beauty Supply • DeNaults True Value Hardware • Designs by Nature • Ellie’s Table • Erba • Eyeland Lash • F.I.T.S. & Fashion • Flowers and Friends • Hanson’s Market • Harvard Eye Associates • Heavenly Couture • Hilary’s Mobile Grooming • Hobie Surf Shop • Holiday Inn San Clemente • Holley’s Tires • iHope Treasures • Inga’s Blooms • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • Jimmy’s Tires • J.L. Ray Company • K&S Cleaners • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Rocco’s Pizza • Lincoln Street Boutique • Lowe’s • Luxe Home Furnishings • Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique • Mathnasium • Mike’s Pet Care • Mongkut Thai • Nails by Karen Dispenza • Nick’s San Clemente • Ole’s Tavern • Paradise II Boutique • Pedro’s Tacos • Peet’s Coffee & Tea • Pet Treasures • Pipes Café • Pizza Port • Radio
The lobby at the San Clemente Inn. Inside, locals also can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee at Adele’s Café. Photo by Brian Park Shack • Republik of Kalifornia • ReUp Design & Events • Revival • Rip Curl • Ritual • Rocco’s • Run more • Salon Bamboo • Salon Bleu • Salon Incognito • Salon Zinnia & Lifestyle Boutique • Sam’s Shoes • San Clemente Art Supply • San Clemente Cyclery • San Clemente Grooming and Pet Spa • San Clemente Gym • San Clemente Inn • San Clemente Website Design • San Clemente Wine Company • SC Villas • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Seaside Skin Care • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shadetree Automotive • Shore Gardens Nursery • Smashburger • Smooth Waxing Salon • South of Nick’s • Starbucks • Stella Lucy • Stillwater Café • Subway • Sunny Days • Surterre Properties • Swirl Boutique • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Talega Day Spa • Target • Taste of China • The Cellar • The Habit • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • The Third Eye • The UPS Store • Three Dog Bakery • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • Trade Winds Hair Salon • Trader Joe’s • Tutor Doctor • Union Bank • Variant • Villa Cucina • VIP Pet Spa • Vine• V’s Barbershop • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Wheenk! Physical Therapy • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
BEST LODGING Golden Ole San Clemente Inn 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, 949.492.6103, www.sanclementeinn.com
A stone’s throw from sandy beaches and Trestles surf spots, this recently remodeled 97-unit timeshare and nightly rental hotel is loaded with amenities, such as free movies, Wi-Fi, a tennis court, weight room and air hockey table. San Clemente Inn has been serving local and visiting clientele with comfortable style since the ’70s. The hot tub and pool offer views of the hotel’s garden and neighboring state park land.—RWD
SILVER Ole Holiday Inn
Owner James Kehoe got his start in the tire business alongside his father in the early ’70s and has continued the family legacy of quality and customer service since his dad’s passing in 2001. “We are here for our customers, first and foremost,” said manager Robbie Angon. “It’s the personal touch that makes our customers comfortable and keeps them coming back.”—Andrea Swayne
SILVER Ole Big O Tires 927 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.5543, www.bigotires.com NOMINEES: Auto Medic • Pep Boys/Discount Tire Center • El Camino Automotive • Jay’s Car Repair • Ramona Tire • San Clemente Auto Center • San O Mechanic • Shadetree Automotive • Walmart 2012 WINNERS: Gold Tie: Holley’s Tire Service, Jimmy’s Tire Center; Silver: Big O Tires
BEST POOL SUPPLY/SERVICE Golden Ole SC Pool & Spa Works 1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com
SC Pool and Spa Works’ Jack Peat believes his company’s focus on transparency with customers, along with the use of cutting edge equipment, sets them apart. “Our key is communicating with our customers,” Peat said. The company supplies customers with notes from work orders and provides ample information on the chemical content of pools following service calls.—JS
SILVER Ole Leslie’s Swimming Pool Supplies 85 Via Pico Plaza, 949.492.8482, www.lesliespool.com
111 S. Avenue De Estrella, 949.361.3000, www.hisanclemente.com NOMINEES: Always Inn Bed & Breakfast • Best Western Plus Casablanca Inn • Casa Tropicana • Days Inn San Clemente • Hotel Miramar • Oceanfront Hacienda • San Clemente Cove • Seahorse Resort • The Inn at Calafia Beach • Trade Winds Motel • Travelodge San Clemente 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The San Clemente Inn; Silver: Beachcomber Motel
NOMINEES: Bill’s Pool Supplies & Service • Contemporary Pools and Spas • May’s Pool Service • Plumeria Pools • The Poolice Pool & Spa Services • RJ’s Pool & Spa Service • South County Pool Techs • Tahiti Blue Pool & Spa Service 2012 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2013
www.sanclementetimes.com | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | Page 19
BEST DENTAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDER Golden Ole Brian J. Rice, D.D.S. /
Family Dentistry Services
150 Avenida Del Mar, Suite C, 949.492.0330, www.brianricedds.com
Since 1974, Rice has been serving generations of San Clemente families. “I’ve earned a reputation for doing the dentistry you need,” the former mayor said. Like the good old days, this integrity resonates with the practice’s 2,000 active patients endorsing the handson practice with the Golden Ole Award for excellence. Family Dentistry Services is caring, trustworthy and accepting new patients.—RWD
SILVER Ole Carla P. Bryan, D.D.S. 657 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 138, 949.487.6780, www.drsbryanandwilliams.com NOMINEES: Aesthetic Dental Associates • Alice Moran, D.M.D. • Amir Nikraz, D.D.S. • Brighter Image Dental • City Dentistry • Collins Harrell, D.M.D. • David Buchan, D.D.S. • Dana Ghorab, D.D.S. • David Guyot, D.D.S. • David Hinrichs, D.D.S. • Donald Muir, D.M.D. • Douglas Field, D.D.S. • Edward Balasanian, D.D.S., M.D. • Eric Johnson, D.D.S. • Erini Redmond, D.D.S. • Jacob Lee, D.D.S. •John Redmond, D.D.S., M.S. • Jon Draper, D.D.S. • Kent Sanders, D.D.S. • Kristin Ritzau, D.D.S. • Lawrence Eckl, D.D.S. • Luis Paniagua, D.D.S. • Michael Shannon, D.D.S. • Nhu Tran, D.D.S. • Nicholas Salvati, D.D.S. • Norman Crow, D.D.S. • Paul Reischl, D.D.S. • Radiant Smiles Dental Care • Ronald Trosper, D.D.S. • Sachiko Fukuman, D.D.S. • San Clemente Dental Group and Orthodontics • Sean Thompson, D.D.S. • Smile Design Dental Group • Thomas Risbrudt, D.D.S. • Tricia Williams, D.D.S. • Wallace Thune, D.D.S. • William Brownson, D.D.S. • William Capobianco, D.D.S. • William Dapper, D.D.S. • William Redmond, D.D.S., M.S. 2012 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2013
BEST MEDICAL HEALTH CARE PROVIDER Golden Ole Adam Crawford, D.O. /
Premier Physicians Medical Group
724 S. El Camino Real, 949.493.6113, www.premierphysicians.org
Primary Care Physician Adam Crawford, with a reputation for being good with surfing injuries and ailments, and the staff at Premier Physicians have garnered the gold for the personal health care they give to families and individuals of all ages. As your partner in health, Dr. Crawford provides continuing wellness and preventative care along with top-notch treatment of ongoing conditions.—RWD
Dr. Brian J. Rice and his staff at Family Dentistry Services. Photo by Brian Park
SILVER Ole Ricardo Davalos, M.D. /
Ocean Breeze Medical Group 150 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.369.6993
NOMINEES: Adam Franklin, M.D. • Amber Pachon, M.D. • Candace Basich, M.D. • Craig Albert, M.D. • Daniel Tam, M.D. • Darshana Kadakia, M.D. • David Zachary, M.D. • Edward Bestard, M.D. • Elizabeth Johnson, M.D. • Elvira Klause, M.D. • Eva Gentile, M.D. • Glenn Katz, M.D. • Greg Brown, M.D. • Heal Medical Clinic • Inchel Yeam, M.D. • James Johnson, M.D. • James Sperber, M.D. • Lawrence Chang, M.D. • Lori Clark, M.D. • Maryam Moinfar, M.D. • Memorial Care • Navjyot Gujral, M.D. • Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group • Peter Jungwirth, M.D. • Ralf Reuland, M.D. • Roger Green, M.D. • Saddleback Memorial Medical Center • Sara Shokouhi, M.D. • Seaview Pediatrics • South Orange County Pediatric Associates • Steven Cullen, M.D. • Susan Saltzman, M.D. • Torsten Kruse, M.D. • Wheenk! Physical Therapy 2012 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2013
BEST
ALTERNATIVE HEALTH CARE PROVIDER
Golden Ole A Point of Health Acupuncture,
Emily K. Valenzuela, L.Ac.
224 Avenida Del Mar, Suite C, 949.310.4044, www.apointofhealth.com
Good health has many suitors. Yet, none of them have the history of success the ancient healing arts do— acupuncture, in particular. After thousands of years, it still harmonizes bodily organs and brings patients back into balance. Acupuncturist Emily Valenzuela uses herbal therapy, nutritional education and supplementation in conjunction with acupuncture to re-boot vitality into her clients’ lives.—RWD
SILVER Ole Chin’s Acupuncture Center
tioning up and cross fit has done a lot for us. It’s put us on a different level,” USSD event coordinator Mauricio Cespedes said.—SB
SILVER Ole Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 621-A N. El Camino Real, 949.366.2107, www.guillobelbjj.com NOMINEES: Fight Strong MMA • Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu • Progressive Martial Arts • San Clemente Community Center • San Clemente Gym • San Clemente Self Defense • Sunrise Tae Kwon Do 2012 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2013
BEST GROOMING/PET CARE Golden Ole Pet Treasures /Wagadoodle Pet Salon 653 Camino de Los Mares, 949.493.7297, www.theyellowbone.com
Like the sign intimates, “pets are treasures” and will be treated as such while in the care of husband and wife team, Daniel Giles and Valerie Amber. Featuring self-wash stations, a monthly non-anesthetic dental and vaccine clinic, treats, toys and health product lines for cats and dogs, this spot’s professional grooming service averages about three hours.—RWD
SILVER Ole San Clemente Grooming and Pet Spa 801 Via Suerte, Suite 101, 949.391. 7297, www.ocgroomer.com NOMINEES: Camp Bow Wow • Critters Mobile Pet Grooming • Hilary’s Mobile Grooming • Mike’s Pet Care • Pacific Coast Pet Training • Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital • Paws Pet Resort • Pico Veterinary Clinic • San Clemente Veterinary Hospital • Talega Animal Hospital • The Pet Palace • The Pet Place • Three Dog Bakery • Unleashed by Petco • VIP Pet Spa 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Grooming and Pet Spa; Silver: VIP Pet Spa
415 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.2046 NOMINEES: Ahrens Chiropractic • Asia America Acupuncture • Amy Choi, D.C., L.Ac. , Better Health Clinic Acupuncture & Chiropractic • CC Chapman • Heather Rice, L.Ac. • John A. Virag, D.C., Del Mar Chiropractic • Kaisa Coppola, D.C., Applied Kinesiologist • Kate Andrews, L.Ac., Granada Acupuncture • Kevin Dand, D.C. • Kim Lee-Thorp, Health Coach, Clinical Massage & Doula Services • Matt Greene, L.Ac., SereneQui Acupuncture • Michael L. Kreutz, D.C. • New Hope Acupuncture Center • O2 Wellness • Richard C. Roth, D.C. • Sepi Forstie, D.C. • Tyler Johnson, D.C., Chiropractic Center 2012 WINNERS: This is a new category for 2013
BEST MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO Golden Ole USSD Martial Arts San Clemente 79 Via Pico Plaza, 949.361.9111, www.martialartsinsc.com
Dr. Adam Crawford, a surfer himself, has developed a reputation for success treating surf related injuries. Photo by Jim Shilander
The USSD Martial Arts Studio may have changed locations but they have been an institution in town for 20 years. The studio specializes in kempo karate but has since become a mecca for crossfit and mixed martial arts training. “Our kempo karate class is the most popular but we were looking for something to keep condi-
Page 20 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
Pet Treasures owners Daniel Giles and Valerie Amber, and employees Olia Didion and Debbie Chomatil provide customers with toys and treats for cats and dogs, as well as grooming services and regular clinics. Photo by Jim Shilander
BEST JEWELER Golden Ole Paradise Jewelers 808 N. El Camino Real, 949.361-4367, www.paradisejewelers.com
Rick Dunning of Paradise Jewelers says the company’s 33 years in business, along with its expert staff, have made Paradise a favorite of San Clemente residents. Eon Kang, a master jeweler and platinum and wax carving specialist, helps create beautiful custom pieces, as well as providing expert repair.—JS
SILVER Ole On the Rocks Jewelry and Rare Coins 207 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.0022 NOMINEES: Gerry the Jeweler/The Jeweler • Jewelry Forever • Sand & Sea Jewelry 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Paradise Jewelers; Silver: Gino’s Jewelers
BEST MANICURE & PEDICURE Golden Ole Mingee’s Nails & Spa 164 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1818; 132 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.1139
When Fumio Hayasi started her nail care business more than 30 years ago, she worked it alone using tubs to
For more than three decades, Rick Dunning and his expert staff of jewelers have been selling, purchasing and repairing jewelry for San Clemente residents. Photo by Brian Park
carry water to work stations. Her excellent services caught on fast. Hayasi’s nail care operation has expanded to provide unisex waxing and skin care services at two Avenida Del Mar locations with more than 20 skilled technicians and state-of-the-art equipment. Whether you are looking to pamper you toes, fingers or shape up your eyebrows, Mingee’s is highly sanitary with an accommodating no waiting policy. Pampering reigns here.—RWD
SILVER Ole Nails by Karen Dispenza 111 W. Avenida Palizada, Suite 15A, 949.361.6693, www.sanclementenails.com NOMINEES: Allure Nails & Spa • Beauty Nails • Bellagio Nail Spa • Changes Salon • Kim’s Nails & Spa • Fashion Nails • Final Touch Nails & Spa • Happy Nails and Spa • Hairwaves Beauty Salon • Natural Nails by Edith • Passion Nails & Spa • Ocean View Nails • ProfessioNail & Spa • Salon Bamboo • Sanctuary Salon & Spa • SC Nail Lounge • Serenty Nails & Spa • Sunset Glow Nail Spa • Sweet Escape • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • V Nails Boutique 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Mingee’s Nails & Spa; Silver: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique
BEST
SPA FOR MASSAGES, FACIALS, ETC.
Golden Ole Talega Day Spa 1161 Puerta Del Sol, 949.429.5757, www.talegadayspa.com
Talega Day Spa is a relaxing space offering a “touch of Tuscany” to clients. “I owe it to the faux painters I hired,” said four-time San Clemente Times Golden Ole Award winner Sue Ferrier. “They studied art in Italy.” Offering day spa services at good prices, which have not changed since 2004, there are two relaxation rooms, saunas for singles and couples, a steam room and gardens. Consistency is guaranteed at this Roman bathhouse inspired spa—RWD
SILVER Ole Seaside Skin Care 108 S. Camino Real, 949.276.2777, www.seasideskincare.com NOMINEES: 5 Elements Spa • Bellagio Nails • Bonnie’s Skin Salon • C’Siren Day Spa • Chin’s Acupuncture Center • Divine Inspirations • Eyeland Lash • Facial Aesthetic Concepts • Granada Massage • Hands of Eye Massage Mobile • Massage Envy • Mingee’s Nails • Ocean Massage • Patti Dunn Skin Care and Massage • Salon Bamboo • Salon Zinnia & Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Gym • San Clemente Orthopedic Rehab • San Clemente Wellness • Soul Intentions • Thai Body Works • The Green Room • Waves Beyond Skincare 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Talega Day Spa; Silver: Seaside Skin Care
The San Clemente Gym has bee helping locals stay in shape for over 30 years. Photo by Jim Shilander
BEST GYM
BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO
Golden Ole San Clemente Gym
Golden Ole Asana FIT
123 South El Camino Real, 949.361.1007, www.sanclementegym.net
102 South Ola Vista, 949.492.0110, www.asanafi t.com
The vibe at San Clemente Gym and its location in the heart of downtown, make it blend naturally into the fabric of the local community. The gym caters to everyone, from bodybuilders to those looking to make good on a New Year’s resolution. And the personal trainers have a collective 100 years of experience between them.—SB
If yoga is “bodily gospel,” then Asana FIT is the place to worship it in San Clemente. From hot yoga and Pilates sculpt to Zumba and Asana blend, the studio offers classes from sunrise at 6:30 a.m. to sunset at 7:30 p.m. Their mission—improving health through expressive healing arts—works wonders on the body and soul. —RWD
SILVER Ole Fitness 19 93A Via Pico Plaza, 949.369.1999, www.fitness19.com NOMINEES: Anytime Fitness • Asana FIT • BeachFit CrossFit • Bikram Yoga • BT Fitness • CB Cyclebarn • CrossFit Orange County • Curves • DSC • Fitness Elite for Women • Foundation Fitness • North Beach Kettlebell • Rancho San Clemente Tennis and Fitness Club • San Clemente Boot Camp • So Cal Boot Camp • Total Body Conditioning • Xtreme Fitness 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Gym; Silver: CrossFit Orange County
SILVER Ole Bikram Yoga San Clemente 711 N. El Camino Real, 949.388.9595, www.bikramsc.com NOMINEES: Body Awareness • BodyMovin’ Yoga • Dance & Wellness Studio • BT Fitness • City of San Clemente Recreation • CrossFit Orange County • Fitness Elite for Women • Hot Yoga of San Clemente • Pure Yoga • Total Body Conditioning • Zen Den Yoga Studio 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Asana FIT; Silver: OceanaFit Yoga
Beachgoers at T Street take in a relaxing, sunny afternoon and take in the view of the Pacific and the San Clemente Pier. Photo by Brian Park
Getting Outside …
BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS Golden Ole The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
BEST BEACH
611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com
Since the inception of the People’s Choice Ole Awards eight years ago, Fisherman’s has maintained its title as your preferred spot to take visiting guests. Situated on either side of the San Clemente Pier, Fisherman’s not only offers a panoramic Pacific view, but also a comfortable perch to people watch with a cup of chowder, bucket of clams or crab cheddar melt on the table and cocktail or mock-tail in hand.—AP
Golden Ole T Street
T Street, despite having somewhat of a misnomer, is widely popular for picnics, beach fires, swimming, surfing and bodyboarding. It is named after Trafalgar Lane, which taken west from El Camino Real leads you in the right direction, but its metered parking area is actually at the terminus of Esplanade and West Paseo de Cristobal. A newly-renovated, pedestrian bridge offers safe passage over the railroad tracks and down to the beach below. –AS
SILVER Ole San Clemente Pier
SILVER Ole San Clemente Main Beach/Pier NOMINEES: 204s • Cotton’s Point • Lasuens/Lost Winds • Linda Lane • North Beach • Old Man’s/San O • Poche Riviera • San Clemente State Beach/Calafia • San Onofre State Beach • The Hole • Trail 6/San O • San Clemente State Beach/ Calafia • Trestles 2012 WINNERS: Gold: T Street; Silver: San Clemente Main Beach/Pier
BEST PARK Golden Ole Linda Lane Park 400 Linda Lane, 949.361.8264, www.san-clemente.org
Linda Lane is among the best parks in the city to take in the ocean view while enjoying the day. There is easy access to the beach trail and the park features a fun and whimsical play structure for children. A good amount of grassy areas surrounds the park, making it a perfect picnic spot.—SB
SILVER Ole Vista Hermosa Sports Park
& Aquatics Center
987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, 949.429.8797, www.san-clemente.org NOMINEES: Baron Von Millard Memorial Dog Park • Calafia • Courtney’s SandCastle at Vista Hermosa Sports Park • Forster Ranch Community Park • Leslie Park • Liberty Park • Marblehead Park • Max Berg Plaza Park • Mira Costa Park • Park Semper Fi • Parque Del Mar • Rancho San Clemente Park • Richard T. Steed Memorial Park • Ralphs Skate Court • San Clemente State Park • San Gorgonio Park • San Luis Rey Park • San Onofre State Park • Talega Park • Tierra Grande/Red Barn Park • Verde Park 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Vista Hermosa Sports Park & Aquatics Center; Silver: Linda Lane Park
A golfer tracks the flight of his ball at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. Photo by Brian Park
BEST GOLF COURSE Golden Ole San Clemente Municipal Golf Course 150 E Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.8380, www.sanclementegc.com
The Muni is a classic, southern California golf course that opened in 1930 and has kept local golfers coming back ever since. The Muni boasts ocean views on many of its holes, and has two distinct nines that both the duffer and regular golfer can enjoy. The greens at the Muni are usually the star of any round, just make sure to factor in the break toward the ocean your ball is bound to take. For San Clemente residents, the pricing at the course is among the best golf bargains around. —SB
SILVER Ole Talega Golf Club 990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.6226, www.talegagolfclub.com NOMINEES: Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club • Shorecliffs Golf Club 2012 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Municipal Golf Course; Silver: Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club
Page 26 | SC Times Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards | www.sanclementetimes.com
NOMINEES: Active Culture Natural Foods Café & Yogurt/Velvet Yogurt • Antoine’s Café • Avenida Del Mar • Barnoa Wine Bar • BeachFire Restaurant Bar & Grill • Board and Brew • C’Siren Day Spa • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Calafia/ San Clemente State Beach • Carbonara’s Trattoria • Casa Romantica • Erba • Forster Ranch Trails • Goody’s Tavern • Guicho’s Eatery • Hanson’s Market • Hapa J’s • Hobie Surf Shop • Inka Mama’s • Italian Cravings • Iva Lee’s • Kona Gallery • La Casa Verde de Granada • La Gallette Creperie • La Tiendita • Little Thai Hut • Lower Trestles • Mac & Madi Unique Children’s Boutique • Main Beach • Nick’s San Clemente • Nomads Canteen • North Beach • Old City Plaza • Ole’s Tavern • Paradise II Boutique • Paradise Jewelers • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipes Café • Pizza Port • Rainbow Sandals • Reptropolis • San Clemente Art Gallery • San Clemente Beach Trail • San Clemente Farmers Market • San Clemente Inn • San Clemente Summit • San Clemente Wine Company • San Onofre State Park • Seaside Skin Care • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • South of Nick’s • Stillwater Café • Sunsets at the Pier • Sunny Days • T Street Beach • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Talega Day Spa • The Cellar • Top of the World • Vine • Zebra House Coffee 2012 WINNERS: Gold: The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar; Silver: San Clemente Pier
BEST SURF BREAK Golden Ole Lower Trestles
As much training ground for groms as proving ground for pros, Lower Trestles is known the world over as one of the planet’s most talent-worthy waves. Want to see some of the best wave riding talent on Earth? Look no further than this world-class cobblestone beach located just south of the city limits in San Onofre State Park. —AS
SILVER Ole T Street NOMINEES: 204s • Church Beach • Clock Tower • Cotton’s Point • Dog Patch/San O • Lasuens/Lost Winds • Main Beach/San Clemente Pier • Mariposa • Middles Trestles • North Beach • Old Man’s/San O • Riviera • San Clemente State Beach/ Calafia • San Onofre State Beach • The Hole • Trail 4/San O • Trail 5/San O • Upper Trestles 2012 WINNERS: Gold: Lower Trestles; Silver: T Street
EYE ON SC
1
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
SC S a n C le m e n te
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO An allegedly drunken driver of a red Mercedes Benz crashed into the outdoor dining area of the historic El Adobe de Capistrano Restaurant on Sunday night, causing minor structural damage, according to an Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman. Three patrons, who were dining just a few feet from the accident, were unharmed, said Lt. Gary Strachan. The driver, identified in the sheriff’s blotter as 61-year-old Joe Santiago Brema, was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence, Strachan said. The Mercedes plowed through a metal guard rail, coming to a stop after striking a brick pillar. Christopher Ingerson, general manager of the restaurant, said the crash threw a rain gutter off the pillar and displaced a planter.
NEWS
NEXT DOOR WH AT’S GOING ON I N OU R NE IGH B ORING TOWNS
DANA POINT A stretch of Coast Highway was shut down for nearly six hours Friday, Jan. 10 after two large boulders crashed into the roadway, authorities said. No injuries were reported from the rockslide that closed the road in both directions from Beach Road to Camino Capistrano from around 4 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., said Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Lt. Jeff Hallock. Rockslides are not uncommon, said Dana Point’s Public Works and Engineering Director Brad Fowler. City crews responded to the disruption and broke up the boulders before hauling them away, he said. Concrete railing along much of Coast Highway’s bluff block small slides from impacting traffic, Fowler said. But, periodically the system experiences failures.
SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS
What’s Up With... 1
…Capistrano Shores?
THE LATEST: Residents of the Capistrano Shores Mobile Home Park told City Council members Tuesday that the city’s new general plan should be revised to reflect the true nature of their residences and said the city was obstructing needed improvements to the community. Residents and attorneys for the community, located off of North El Camino Real, said the city improperly rezoned the area as open space in its 1993 General Plan from a designation allowing residences. Since the trailer park is a nonconforming use under its current zoning, infrastructure improvements are harder to make as they require special permits. Residents indicated much of the gas and electrical systems in the park are over 60 years old. They said they no longer meet code requirements and need replacing. A plan for replacing the utilities was approved by the California Coastal Commission last year but still requires city approvals to move forward. WHAT’S NEXT: The city is examining the utility plan and seeking more technical information, said Jim Holloway, the city’s community development director. The council will again look at the General Plan at its meeting Feb. 4. FIND OUT MORE: For more on the story, visit www.sanclementetimes. com.– JS
2
…Ambulance Services?
THE LATEST: San Clemente residents San Clemente Times January 23–29, 2014
can expect additional ambulance service this summer, though at what time those services will be available is still to be determined. City Council approved moving forward with a new contract Tuesday with the Orange County Fire Authority to provide a second city ambulance from May through October, the busiest season for the use of emergency services. The city had previously contracted with a private ambulance service to handle calls when the OCFA ambulance was busy, but that firm is located in San Juan Capistrano and response times have sometimes reflected the travel, city officials indicated. WHAT’S NEXT: The hours of availability of the ambulance are still to be determined. The initial proposal was to have the second ambulance from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., but Councilman Bob Baker suggested examining whether taking in more of the evening would be a better use of resources. The council will examine the program at the end of the year to determine its future feasibility. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. – JS
3
… the Transgender Bathroom Law?
THE LATEST: There have been no incidents at San Clemente High School related to a new state law that allows transgender students to participate in sports and to use school facilities, including bathrooms, consistent with their gender identity, said SCHS Principal Michael Halt. Halt said the school has actually had
procedures and protocols throughout the year to deal with the issue, so there were not new policies put in place Jan. 1, when the law went into effect. Capistrano Unified School District communications director Marcus Walton said there have been no issues in the district as a whole with the new law. WHAT’S NEXT: A voter initiative to repeal the law is underway. If enough signatures are gathered to put the measure on the ballot in November’s election, the law would be stayed. FIND OUT MORE: Track updates on Twitter @S_C_Times. – JS
4
…the Chamber building?
THE LATEST: It appears the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce will have a new home. City Manager Pall Gudgeirsson said Tuesday he was told the chamber had gone into escrow on a property in one of San Clemente’s business parks to use as its new headquarters. The city and the organization had been negotiating a rental price for the property at 1100 N. El Camino Real, which the chamber has occupied for decades. The item had been up for discussion during the city council’s closed session Tuesday, but Gudgeirsson said it had been tabled. WHAT’S NEXT: Gudgeirsson said if the chamber does move to a new property, the city will have to examine what to do with the current building as well as whether it is of historic value. The chamber has indicated a move would mean it will likely no longer act as the city’s tourism bureau.
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FIND OUT MORE: For updates on the situation, visit www.sanclementetimes. com. –JS
5
…the Council Election?
THE LATEST: It appears, at least for now, that there will be at least one new member on the San Clemente City Council when the body reorganizes in December. During discussion about changing the council’s meeting dates in June and November, to allow for chambers to be used as a polling and collection site for ballots for the primary and general elections, Councilman Jim Evert indicated he planned to be on vacation during the week of the election, which will be held Nov. 4. Evert told the body he would “be near the end anyway.” The terms of three council members, including Evert’s, expire at the end of November. Evert said after the conclusion of the meeting that while he was not completely closing the door on seeking reelection, he was currently “not planning on running again.” Evert was elected in 2010 and served as the city’s mayor from Dec. 2011 to Dec. 2012. WHAT’S NEXT: Two other members of the council, Lori Donchak and Mayor Tim Brown, are up for reelection as well, but have not announced a decision on whether to seek another term. If both chose to run, Donchak would be seeking her third term in office, while Brown would be seeking his second. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. – JS www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, January 23 Community Health Forum 3:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Mission Hospital wants to know what your health needs are, including pressing issues affecting your community. Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley, 1 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Friday, January 24 Senior Birthday Celebration Noon. Lunch and entertainment by Robert Fields at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.
NEWS BITES
PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO New National Honors Society Members Inducted at SCHS The San Clemente High School National Honors Society held their 2013-14 Induction Ceremony and Banquet on Friday, Jan. 17. Eighteen new members who were inducted to the SCHS chapter based on their scholastic achievements, commitment to school and community service and leadership. The new members include Haley McCabe, Sydney Redmond, Caroline Ryan, Max Putnam, Caitlin Antonios, Cameron Eldridge, Ryan Murphy, Shelby Nix, Sophia Spralja, Kyra Brandt, Tara Afshar, Michael Wheelock, Eli Gerhard, Jake Moskowitz, Brooke Renard, Allison Hansen, Matthew Greenberg and Jack Renard. – Shelley Murphy
Saturday, January 25 Saturday Produce Basket 10 a.m.1 p.m. Every Saturday get fresh-picked $20 veggie/fruit baskets at Villagio Giardino at the Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, 949.697.0032, www.vrgreenfarms.com/Basket.
Monday, January 27 Toddlertime 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Stories for children ages 2-3 with adult participation at the San Clemente Library. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org. Spanish Conversation 11 a.m. Meet at Café Calypso for coffee and conversation. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.9803. German Speaking Group 2 p.m.–4p.m. German conversations at Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8436. Investment Advisory Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m. City Hall, Ocean View Conference Room, 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Compiled by Jim Shilander
Eighteen new members of the National Honors Society at San Clemente High School were inducted at a ceremony Friday. Photo by Shelley Murphy
Concert Feb. 1 at Our Lady of Fatima Violinist Alex DePue and guitarist Miguel DeHoyos will be appearing at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church at
McGowan Hall on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. The concert will feature everything from The Beatles hits to classical Spanish pieces, Mozart, Phantom of the Opera, The Eagles and even Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven”. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children under 18. They are available online at www.olf.ticketleap.com or can be purchased at the door prior to performance. A cheese bar and non-alcoholic beverages are included with the purchase of a ticket and dessert. For information call 949.361.1729.
Groundbreaking Set for I-5 Expansion Project Jan. 29 The groundbreaking for the Orange County Transportation Authority’s Interstate 5 widening project, which will add carpool lanes between San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente, has been set for Wednesday, Jan. 29. The ceremony will be held from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Capistrano Unified School District’s headquarters, located at 33122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano. Speakers will include Supervisor Pat Bates, San Clemente City Councilwoman and OCTA board member Lori Donchak, San Juan Mayor Sam Allevato and CUSD Board of Trustees President John Alpay, who represents San Clemente.
Saint Clements Presenting Finance Class Saint Clements by the Sea will begin a nine-week financial education course on Feb. 9, 2014. Church volunteer Jim Pechous will facilitate the program that includes video curriculum taught A transient who had been asked to leave reportedly became verbally aggressive and made a “shooting gesture” at the caller with his hands. The man was last seen walking south on El Camino Real. He was described as approximately 6 feet 2 inches tall, in his 30’s, wearing a beanie, black T-shirt, jeans and sandals.
SC Sheriff’s Blotter
Goal Zone Sports Soccer After-school soccer sessions for kids begin today; meets through March 11. Cost $30 per session. 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
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.
Ukulele Class 10:15 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Class for seniors at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.
Tuesday, January 21
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Las Bolas, 1600 Block (5:19 a.m.) A woman told authorities that someone was in the apartment unit above hers, which she said should be vacant. The woman thought it might have been a local transient who broke in. The woman said she saw the window opening and closing and saw a hand, then saw a man outside a moment later.
DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2300 Block (8:47 a.m.)
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Cañada, 100 Block (2:26 a.m.) A
Tuesday, January 28
San Clemente Times January 23-29, 2014
COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
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by financial expert Dave Ramsey and incorporates small group discussions that help encourage accountability. The class meets once a week for 90 minutes and is designed to be fun and practical. The program utilizes biblical principles to strengthen couples’ finances and relationships. To find out more, visit Saint Clements by the Sea website at www.scbythesea.org, call 949.492.3401 or email info@scbythesea.org
iHope Announces Temporary New Home San Clemente-based homeless advocacy organization iHope has announced it has found a new home. The group announced via email last week that it had partnered with Heritage Christian Fellowship of San Clemente to provide services to clients two days a week, Mondays and Wednesdays. The organization left is former offices in San Clemente in November before moving to a temporary home in Capistrano Beach, where it provides weekly shower services on Saturday mornings for the homeless. The organization said it is still seeking a permanent home for a resource center and is continuing to work to establish an emergency shelter. For information on the organization, visit www.ihopeoc.org.
Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
woman requested a patrol check after hearing a man and woman talking near the building next door. The woman said she had seen lights coming into her house.
Monday, January 20 WELFARE CHECK Calle Del Cerro, 1100 Block (12:39 p.m.) A woman at a bus stop was slamming her arm, which was in a cast, on the curb and yelling. SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Via Ensueno/Avenida San Pablo (7:17 a.m.) A dark blue Jeep with Alaska plates was parked on Avenida San Pablo. The caller believed people were living inside. The subjects were throwing used condoms out of the car and making a mess. www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
On the Way to Washington San Clemente sailor to work with Congress By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times
T
o family, friends and well-wishers, including a member of Congress, who attended a farewell party Sunday at 207 Chop House in San Clemente, the future is clear: Lt. Brick Christensen is going places. Christensen, 26, has lived in San Clemente since 2008, when he was stationed in San Diego aboard ship. However, this past December, Christensen received a coveted new assignment working in the Navy’s congressional liaison office in Washington D.C. “You get to work with members of Congress and learn more about how the government works and to teach them about how the Navy works,” Christensen said. Both Congress and the Navy, he said, often had misconceptions about the other, which could lead to conflicts and misunderstandings. He hoped to take the time to learn more about Congress and to find ways of bridging the gap between the two sides. Christensen said he’d also get to accompany members of committees on foreign trips. Rep. Ed
Lt. Brick Christensen thanks well-wishers for attending his send-off event Sunday. Christensen is moving from San Clemente to Washington, where he will work in the Navy’s Congressional liaison office. Photo by Jim Shilander
Royce (R-Fullerton) was at the event to wish him well. Christensen said the post was one he’d wanted for a long time. He’d applied for it last year but had not
heard either way until December, when he’d nearly resigned himself to not receiving the post, he said. Just as he’d begun looking at other potential assignments, he received word on the
congressional appointment. He got it. The appointment is supposed to last between two and three years. After that, Christensen said, he hopes to return to the fleet, San Diego and to San Clemente. “I’m going to miss everyone, I’m going to miss San Clemente and I’m going to miss the weather,” he said. That may have been prophetic, since the Washington area received several inches of snow Tuesday. Todd Gladis, a San Clemente resident who helped organize the sendoff party, worked with Christensen while the young lieutenant was in high school. Gladis, an executive at the real estate company Auction. com, said Christensen would come in on the weekends to the company’s Irvine offices, often working from sun up to sun down. Christensen also managed to graduate from UCLA in two years before starting his naval career. Gladis said he believes Christensen will have a lot to offer the city when he returns. “We knew then he was going to do something wonderful,” Gladis said. “We’re really proud of him.” SC
SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com
PRINT AND ONLINE
S a n C le m e n te
San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 4. The SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
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Letters to the Editor WAKE-UP TIME FOR THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
FROM TH E M I N D O F ZE LE S K I
JIM SMITH, San Clemente
The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce has taken a very inflexible position with the city over their “pocket change” rent that’s subsidized by our tax dollars. Based on what I’ve read, the chamber is upset that the city is considering raising rent to be more in line with market values. For 50 years, the chamber has been paying only $100 a year to rent property worth well over $400,000. That amounts to 27 cents a day. Recently, the chamber’s president, Lynn Wood, called the city’s plan “political retribution.” That sounds like she doesn’t have much respect for San Clemente voters. As part of negotiations, Wood says they’re looking at other properties to rent in town, and if they move, the city can no longer use the Chamber’s staff as a “tourism bureau.” Nice ploy, but tourism bureaus went out with rotary dial phones and Fats Domino. So did $100-a-year taxpayer subsidized rent. In 2014, tourists use smart phones, navigation systems and the Internet to check out restaurants and other sights in town. It’s time for the out-of-touch chamber and its Rip Van Winkle leadership to awake and smell the coffee. Thank you to those City Council members that demonstrate fiduciary responsibility and support this long needed rent increase.
NO NEED TO FEAR ROOFTOP RESTAURANT STEVE WATSON, San Clemente
A rooftop restaurant in San Clemente would bring in sales tax revenue and offer another view of the wonderful Pacific as Fisherman’s does. Laguna Beach has a terrific rooftop place and people there San Clemente Times January 23–29, 2014
seem happy as a clam. It would put San Clemente further on top as a dining destination, initiated by The Cellar and enhanced by the wonderful Avila’s, Iva Lee’s, Nick’s, Carbonara’s and more.
SONGS DANGERS ARE REAL, NOT JUST RHETORIC GARY HEADRICK, San Clemente
Two weeks ago there was a well intended article written by our mayor, titled “Be Responsible with SONGS Rhetoric, San Clemente Residents Have Chosen to Live With Nuclear Risks.” Although we appreciate the support and actions taken by our City Council in this regard, I am writing to respond to statements made by our mayor and to provide a more complete understanding of the dangers that still need to be addressed. Perhaps “rhetoric” was not the best choice of words because it tends to minimize the valid concerns of those
who have gone to great lengths to research this topic. Also, the assumption that we have all chosen to live with the risks does not account for subsequent revelations about the dangers of nuclear waste and updated seismic data. The statement implies that we should keep quiet or move elsewhere. According to Mayor Tim Brown, “overstating the negative effects of fuel storage makes it virtually impossible to get the nuclear waste removed ... and creates an unnecessary climate of fear...” While exaggerated points of view on both sides of the issue should be filtered out, there are plenty of confirmed dangers about nuclear waste that need to be resolved and acted upon quickly. Making others aware of the absolute dangers of leaving nuclear waste on-site compared to the less dangerous task of relocating it, is the most transparent and effective way to confront this threat. As things stand now, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is poised to
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approve plans to keep the waste here indefinitely, with no sense of urgency to have radioactive fuel rods moved from vulnerable cooling pools and placed into more secure and transportable dry cask storage. Once again siding with the industry, NRC staff says it would not be cost effective to do so. Yet these containers are only guaranteed for 20 years, making it essential that we get a handle on the situation and do what it takes to transfer the waste out of a highly populated area before the containers become unreliable. It is important for you as a citizen to see your role in this matter. Being an active participant is what makes things happen. Our City Council was not about to initiate a resolution on their own, but at our request, they did so. We are grateful for their actions and will continue to rely on them to help push our concerns up the chain of command until the last remnants of the nuclear power plant leaves town. Our shared concerns should unite our community over this issue and give us the best chance for an acceptable outcome. Please get informed, by visiting www.sanonofresafety.org, and get involved. Decisions are being made that will impact “this beautiful place we call home,” as rightly put by Mayor Brown, for decades to come. To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, email us at letters@ sanclementetimes.com. San Clemente 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. Please limit your letters to 350 words. www.sanclementetimes.com
GETTING OUT
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
SC S a n C le m e n te
THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY ANDREA SWAYNE
thursday
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THE KALAMA BROTHERS 7:30 p.m.11 p.m. Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.
FORTY 2 9 p.m. Electric hip-hop group at StillWater Spirits & Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.
friday
BUCK A BAG BOOK SALE 10 a.m.-2 p.m. San Clemente Friends of the Library present a two-day book sale with great finds on a variety of topics for kids and adults. 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.276.6342, www.sanclementefol.org/bookstore.asp.
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FROM SADDLEBACK TO HOLLYWOOD 2:30 p.m. Meet and learn from former Saddleback College students who are now working in film and television in Hollywood; held in McKinney Theatre. Free. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts. HENRY WINE GROUP TASTING 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Wine tasting at San Clemente Wine Company. Tasting fee includes a complimentary cheese plate and chocolate. 212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com. THE FANTASTICKS 8 p.m. Cabrillo Playhouse presents the story of a young man and the girl next door. Tickets $20-$25. Shows through Feb. 2. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org. HAZZMATT 8 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com. San Clemente Times January 23-29, 2014
AT THE MOVIES: ‘JACK RYAN’ MAKES A SILVER SCREEN RETURN Britain has James Bond, America has Jack Ryan. Not exactly as big of an international icon in pop culture as the former, but we’ll take what we can get. The character penned by Tom Clancy has produced not only a whole series of popular books but also successful hits with Alec Baldwin, Harrison Ford and Ben Affleck playing the role for more than two decades. Now, twelve years since Affleck’s turn as Ryan, comes Star Trek’s Chris Pine to give it a shot in Kenneth Branagh’s Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit. After being seriously injured while serving in Afghanistan, Ryan settles down in Manhattan with girlfriend Cathy (Keira © MMXIV Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Knightley). While working as a government analyst, Ryan discovers possible terrorist activity within the Russian Federation and United Nations. CIA agent Thomas Harper (Kevin Costner) recruits him to go to Moscow to put a stop to the vengeful Viktor Cheverin (Branagh). Jack Ryan has four movie stars to make this film entertaining eye candy and a fun ride for an hour and a half. The only problem is characters are stuck behind some pretty stale dialogue and sloppy editing. Pine has proven he is a fine action hero, and Knightley has an impressive American accent, but both have to work alongside an underdeveloped relationship and Cathy is merely a poorly written love interest for Knightley. Branagh, while one of the best Shakespearan directors of cinema, might not be the best choice for action/adventure.—Megan Bianco
SAVOY BROWN 8 p.m. British blues/rock band at The Coach House. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com, www.savoybrown.com. HART & SOUL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Monthly show at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.
saturday
DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, crafted goods, flowers and more at La Plaza Park in Dana Point every Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org.
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LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS PUBLIC MEETING 10:15-noon. Meeting on public heath care titled “Affordable Care Act and Single Payer: How You Can Support Both” at the Dana Point Library 33841 Niguel Road, 949.492.7675. BABYLON ROCKERS 8 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.
sunday
FREE FISHING FOR KIDS Noon. A fishing lesson and more for kids at Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.
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NORTH RIDGE HIKE 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Moderate guided hike through The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Admission $5-$10. Call for info and directions. 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org. RABBI BLUE 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. BRUDDAH ADRIAN 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com. Page 36
SJC HISTORICAL WALK 1 p.m. Meet at the Depot Platform for the Historical Society’s guided tour of San Juan Capistrano. Every Sunday. Cost $2-$4. More info: 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com.
monday
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SMOKEY KARAOKE 8 p.m. Your turn to get onstage at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.
tuesday
CASA ART EXHIBIT 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Now on display: Casa Romantica’s art exhibit titled “The Mystery of the Ordinary” featuring the work of neo-realist artist Michael Ward. On display through Feb. 23. Admission $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.
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DREAMBROTHER 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.
wednesday
NATIVE AMERICAN BASKET WEAVING 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Experience the art of basket weaving, a Native American tradition, at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Free with admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.
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KARAOKE WITH LES AND JOEL 7 p.m. Every Wednesday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com. SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO FARMER’S MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba in San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING
4
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
SC S a n C le m e n te
SUDOKU by 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:
SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
Making Friends, Finding Love For singles, surrounding yourself with friends can be just as important as finding a mate
E
ach January, I get emails from lonely singles similar to one I received this week from a south Orange County woman. She wrote, “I was married for 45 years and am a widow of eight years. I would love to find someone to spend the rest of my life with, someone who needs me as much as I need him. “I am attractive, slender and live in a country-club atmosphere that I dearly love. I am 78, in very good health, active and wanting to live again, but I don’t know how to go about it. My female friends have husbands and not much time for me. I don’t know where to find “girlfriends”—someone to have lunch or go to a movie with. I hope you can give me some ideas.” I responded: You are living again, by being active and enjoying your country-club atmosphere. Focus first on making new female friends. At your age, that’s a heck of a lot easier than meeting a man to share your life with. The ratio of single women to single
men at 78 is about 6-to-1. Besides, you can live a great life without a man. Even if you meet a man, there is no guarantee that the relationship will be a picnic. Expand your ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 boundaries and circle By Tom Blake of friends beyond the ones in your neighborhood. However, don’t give up that aspect of your life. Who knows? A married man can become a widower unexpectedly. Try these six activities to make new girlfriends: 1. Check out www.meetup.com, a website that lists all kinds of activities in Orange County. You could find an activity or two that you enjoy and most certainly would make new friends. 2. Senior centers throughout south Orange County are places to meet other seniors. You might check out the centers’ agendas and give one or two
of them a try. 3. Internet dating is an option for seniors, via sites such as www. ourtime.com. However, there are lots of scammers out there trying to prey on lonely older women, so I would be very careful using the Internet to date at your age. 4. Widow and widower clubs are good places to meet other widowed people who can understand your situation. You can also find them on the meetup.com website. 5. Try a Meet and Greet gathering at Tutor and Spunky’s, my Dana Point deli, on the last Thursday of each month, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It’s a great place to meet new friends. This month’s gathering is on January 30. Visit www.tutorandspunkys.com to find out more. 6. Attend a Woman Sage salon meeting. This organization meets monthly in Costa Mesa next to the Performing Arts Center in The Center Club, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Woman
Sage salons feature lectures by local authors, discussion groups and dinner. The next salon is Tuesday, February 11. On that night, I will be on a panel there discussing dating after 50. If you attend, please say “Hello.” For reservations and information, visit www.womansage.org. Regardless of what activities you pursue, doing so will take time, energy, a little money and enthusiasm. Whether or not you meet a man, I can’t say, but you will be making lots of new female friends and enriching your life. That’s a great way to start. To comment, email Tom at tompblake@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING
Award Season Escapism Globe, SAG awards honor unlikely contenders By Megan Bianco San Clemente Times
I
t’s the same thing every year when the award shows start airing. Red carpet commenters ask, “Who are you wearing?” and awardees speeches take the time-honored route of thanking the Academy. For a set of ceremonies so subjective and self-involved, it’s interesting how we tune in to watch what happens year after year. Why do we care what a group of people decide is their choice for Best Motion Picture or Best Actor and Actress? Maybe because, just like the movies they honor, awards shows provide a break from our everyday lives, where we can become immersed in something less stressful and more amusing. For three hours we escape into the Hollywood glitz and glamor to see who will take the predictable and unpredictable award nods. Take Jennifer Lawrence. She recently won Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globes for American Hustle. She’s got one Oscar down, is the lead character of the current most successful movie franchise and
has that best friend quality everyone seems to love about her. As she’s shown in a few acceptance speeches, at 23 she’s still surprised at her own success. Her wins is even more surprising than last year’s Oscar for her role in Silver Linings Playbook, as many people have been praising and applauding her co-nominees Julia Roberts and Lupita Nyong’o for their career changing work in August: Osage County and 12 Years a Slave, respectively. Things took a halt for Lawrence’s accolades last week though, when Nyong’o snagged the award from the Critics’ Choice Awards and the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Just when we thought Lawrence might have an easy route to the Oscars, a new talent in town earned herself a crown. Two eye-grabbing and soul-wrenching dramatic performances passed aside for a hilarious, scene stealing performance by Lawrence, begs the question: Is all the decision making process based on favoritism? Or is this just another example of how unfair it is to group five completely different performances together and call one the best?
Amy Adams (center) took home the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy on Sunday, January 12 for her role in American Hustle. © Sony Pictures
It’s no surprise Cate Blanchett won the Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice and SAG for Best Actress, for her role in Blue Jasmine, as she is one of the most acclaimed and talented actresses of her generation. Also unsurprising is Jared Leto’s continuous win for Best Supporting Actor in Dallas Buyers Club, which has garnered him universal praise for his portrayal of a transgendered woman. The most pleasant surprises of the Golden Globes were Leonardo
DiCaprio’s win for Best Actor in a Comedy with The Wolf of Wall Street, and Amy Adams for Best Actress in a Comedy with American Hustle. The voters throwing a bone to the latter for being a nominee year after year, but never a winner. While Adams is a delight on screen, one does wonder for a second if this was a make-up win. Though Adams managed to sneak into Emma Thompson’s predicted spot at the Oscars, it will be hard for her to beat Blanchett for the big award. SC
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San Clemente Times January 23-29, 2014
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SPORTS
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& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE
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SPORTS SPOTLIGHT
ELITE FOOTBALL’S SC SURF WINS IN CARLSBAD
The Elite Football Club’s girls U-12 team swept away their opponents at the Carlsbad Premier Cup Tournament from January 11-12 and took home the first-place trophy. The team, SC Surf, won four straight games in convincing fashion, outscoring their opponents by a combined score of 19-1. The SC SURF team includes: Briana Mendoza, Juliana Craft, Lucy Kelly, McKenna Alvarez, Hadley Thorsell, Charlotte Jones, Caroline Christl, Paige Campbell, Peyton Lynch, Isabelle Peloso, Meagan Rowlett, Piper Biolos, Emily Lowe and Savanah Burns. The team is coached by Shawn Burns and Rick Hadwick. — San Clemente Times
The Elite Football Club girls U-12 team went 4-0 overall at the Carlsbad Premier Cup Tournament from January 11-12. Courtesy photo
lurking behind at 3-1. The Tritons got to the free throw line 29 times and made 18 of their attempts, the most the team has put up in four games. The Tritons also had a seasonhigh 17 steals in the win. Senior post player Jessica de Gree turned in a monster performance, scoring a season-high 33 points, grabbing 16 rebounds, five steals and one block. The Tritons will travel to play Laguna Hills on January 23.
Triton Report
By Steve Breazeale
For in-game updates, news and more for all of the San Clemente winter sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports. TRITONS SOCCER RETURNS FROM EAST COAST INJURED, BUT DETERMINED Playing in the Montverde Academy Soccer Tournament was both a blessing and a curse for the San Clemente boys soccer team. On one hand, as their third-place finish can attest to, the Tritons (16-1-1, 2-0 league) proved they can compete against some of the best soccer teams in the country. But on the flip side, several impact players suffered injuries over the three-day stretch that will leave them slightly shorthanded in the coming weeks. The Tritons, ranked No. 6 nationally according to www.studentsports.com, defeated West Orange (Fla.) 3-2 in the tournament’s opening round, rallying back from a 1-0 halftime deficit. Senior forward Bryce Kaminski scored twice and senior defender Dylan Struthers netted the game-clinching goal with one minute to play. No. 4 Coppell, the defending Texas 5A State Champion, held the Tritons to only five shots in the first half of their semifinal matchup and took a 1-0 lead into the second half. Again, the Tritons rallied and outshot the Texans 9-4 in the final 40 minutes, but couldn’t get a goal to show for it and lost 2-0. “Coppell was definitely a quality opponent. We played well enough to get ourselves back in the game but didn’t San Clemente Times January 23-29, 2014
San Clemente senior midfielder Fernando Perez (15) jostles for position with a West Orange High School player during the Montverde Academy Soccer Tournament January 16. Photo by Pherby Higgins
put the ball in the net,” head coach Mike Pronier said. “It was just a slow start. I’m pretty happy with the way the guys played.” San Clemente rebounded with a 4-2 victory over American Heritage (Fla.) in the January 18 third-place match. Struthers struck home a booming goal from 30 yards out near the corner of the box and was awarded the Goal of the Tournament trophy. Kaminski and senior midfielder Oscar Hernandez were named to the All-Tournament team. No. 1 Montverde Academy won the tournament for the third consecutive year. After claiming the third-place hardware, the Tritons assessed the damage done to personnel. Senior sweeper Ethan Gacek fractured his jaw and will be out five weeks. Struthers suffered a deep bruise on his shin in the final game but was expected to play in the Tritons match against South Coast League opponent Tesoro on January 22. Results were not available at press time. One of the biggest injuries was suf-
fered by junior midfielder Santiago di Giuseppe, who Pronier said is out indefinitely with a head injury. Di Giuseppe has four goals and a team-leading 13 assists on the season. Before the tournament, the Tritons picked their team captains for the season, Kaminski, Hernandez, Struthers and senior Alek Cucuk. Kaminski, who has 19 goals in 17 games this season, sees the upcoming league schedule as a task the injured Tritons are up to face. “That tournament took a toll on us. So the kids on the bench need to see what it takes to win games and take chances … we have some depth,” Kaminski said. “We haven’t reached our potential. We have so much more to come.” The Tritons will host Capistrano Valley on January 24. GIRLS BASKETBALL TOPPLES CHARGERS FOR LEAGUE WIN A 68-60 South Coast League victory over El Toro on January 21 put the San Clemente girls basketball team in the driver’s seat for the league title. The Tritons (11-8, 3-0) remain the only unbeaten team in league play, with Aliso Niguel
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BOYS HOOPS BEATS STALLIONS, EDGED BY MUSTANGS After narrowly defeating San Juan Hills 37-35 in their Sea View League opener on January 15, the San Clemente boys basketball team was on the other side of the coin two days later against Trabuco Hills. San Clemente (10-9, 1-1) let a 32-18 halftime lead slip out of their hands as the Mustangs (11-8, 2-0) came roaring back in the second half, limiting the Tritons to just three points in the third quarter. Junior Sam Darnold and sophomore Cole Fotheringham led the way for the Tritons with 11 points apiece. San Clemente was set to host rival Dana Hills (15-4, 2-0) on January 22. Results were not available at press time.
Sophomore Cole Fotheringham led the San Clemente boys basketball team with 11 points in the team’s loss to Trabuco Hills on January 15. Photo by Steve Breazeale
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SPORTS & OUTDOORS BALANCE KEY TO GIRLS WATER POLO’S SUCCESS The Tournament of Champions, which was held in Santa Barbara this past weekend, allowed the San Clemente girls water polo team to showcase what has been their secret weapon this season—a balanced offensive attack. In three of their four matches at the high-profile event, the Tritons (10-7, 3-0) had four or more players score goals en route to some upset wins and a fourthplace finish. On January 17 the Tritons beat Foothill, who entered the week as the No. 1 ranked team in the CIF-SS Division 1 coaches poll, 7-6 in overtime. Six different Tritons contributed goals and goalie Madison Atkins made 11 saves to mark the biggest win for the Tritons midway through the season. The No. 5 ranked Tritons then toppled Division 2 rival Agoura 10-9 in overtime on the same day. Four Tritons netted goals and the team was led by senior Brigette Kimbrough’s five. Kimbrough would score 11 total goals in the tournament, notch seven assists and 10 steals. The Tritons ended the tournament with back to back losses to top-ranked Laguna Beach and No. 4 Corona del Mar. “We have a really balanced attack, which I think it is a key to our success.
(sophomore center) Amber McCutcheon, who had been out for the first part of the season.” The Tritons will travel to play in the Coronado Tournament this weekend. GIRLS SOCCER LOSES TO LEAGUE RIVAL Senior forward Nikki Faris scored a goal in the opening minutes of the San Clemente girls soccer team’s January 21 match against Aliso Niguel, but the Wolverines were able to rally and come away with a 4-1 league victory. The Tritons (12-2-2, 2-1) had won their previous two South Coast League matches but now trail Aliso Niguel in the standings. San Clemente will play on the road at Mission Viejo on January 23.
Senior Brigette Kimbrough scored 11 goals to lead the San Clemente girls water polo team to a fourthplace finish at the Santa Barbara Tournament of Champions. Photo by Steve Breazeale
Every starter can play each position effectively which makes it difficult for teams to match up,” head coach Logan Powell said via email. “We are in a good place, everyone is beginning to get involved, and we are pretty much back to full strength with the addition of
WRESTLERS PLACE AT 5-COUNTIES TOURNAMENT The San Clemente wrestling team traveled to compete in the 5-Counties Invitational from January 17-18. Seniors Mike Marshall and Zack Adcock finished sixth in the 172 and 184-pound divisions, respectively, marking the highest finish for a Triton at the event. Noah Fiegener (147 pounds) and Tyler Meisinger (140 pounds) were both one match away from placing. On January 18, the Tritons returned home to host their own four-team dual
match. San Clemente cruised to wins over El Toro (62-9), Pacifica (57-3) and Capistrano Valley (63-6). BILL MALCOLM TO LEAD TRITONS SOFTBALL AS HEAD COACH On January 7, longtime travel softball coach Bill Malcolm was named the new San Clemente varsity head coach. Malcolm has over 25 years of travel ball coaching experience. His most recent position was head coach of the Filly’s Gold travel team based out of Mira Costa. Malcolm will replace former head coach Paul Hill, who guided the Tritons through the 2010-2013 seasons, compiling a 34-44-1 overall record. The Tritons have been scuffling of late, and ended last season with a 5-20 overall record. Malcolm, who has lived in the area for 10 years, has been practicing with the team for the past three weeks and says they have the potential to turn things around. “It’s a great group of girls … I have a good staff too, so I feel really good. The girls are working at it, they’re accepting their challenges. They just need to believe in themselves. The talent is there,” Malcolm said. Malcolm says he brings an aggressive style of play with him to San Clemente, one that will see players hit and run, bunt and take chances.
SC SURF
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SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
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GROM OF THE WEEK Crosby Colapinto
Age: 12, Bernice Ayer Middle School We caught up with San Clemente surfer Crosby Colapinto while taking a break from surf practice on the North Shore of Oahu this week. Having spent four days getting as much time in the water as possible, an incoming swell expected to bring waves in the 50- to 60-foot range on Wednesday had Crosby thinking about what to do with the rest of his time on the island. Fishing and hiking top his list of alternative activities, he said. This trip was especially successful, as he approached it with more confidence than ever following this month’s Surfing America Prime event at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz. There, Crosby won the Boys U14 division on January 11, taking on waves in Crosby Colapinto. Photo by Jack McDaniel the range of 8 feet. Then the next day battled his way through 10- to 12-foot surf to the quarterfinals in U16, emerging even more seasoned and self-assured. “I was super stoked. Last year I only did OK in the final and I was really looking forward to the contest,” Crosby said. “It was awesome to get my first win at Steamer. It gave me more confidence and made me a better competition surfer.” His results at The Lane bumped up his SA Prime rankings to No. 7 in U14 and No. 18 in U16. “I really want to be a pro surfer when I’m older,” Crosby said. “I know it’s going to be difficult but I’m going to keep working hard to reach my goal.”—Andrea Swayne
Behind the Lens: Sheri Crummer By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times
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hrough more than five decades of surfing, a talent for capturing the magic of wave riding in pictures developed in San Clemente resident Sheri Crummer. Surfing since the age of 7, the ocean has always been a part of her life. “My mom bodysurfed when she was pregnant with me, so my love for the ocean must have been innate,” she said. “It was definitely passed down to me from my mom.” As a kid, Crummer spent as much time as she could honing her surf technique, almost to the point of obsession, she said. Her second love growing up was baseball. In the early 1980s while living in Oceanside, Crummer was injured while playing and found herself sidelined from both sports. “I couldn’t do either and was kind of moping around doing nothing,” she said.
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
Sheri Crummer spends a morning at the San Clemente Pier doing what she loves—photographing surfers. Photo by Andrea Swayne
“My roommate handed me a camera. I went to the south jetty at the harbor and shot my first roll of film of the surfers there. When I saw the photos I knew it was something I wanted to do.” A few years later she invested in her first camera gear and began taking photography classes at Saddleback College. Early on she was featured in a few photography shows and worked on a photojournalism project covering Operation Desert Storm. And, in the early ’90s she turned down an opportunity to be under the mentorship of Guy Motil, publisher of Longboard Magazine. “My confidence was lacking. I didn’t think I was good enough, so I passed,” Crummer said. “I think about that from
time to time and can’t help but wonder what could have been. No regrets though.” By that time she had built a successful amateur surfing career in Western Surfing Association and Women’s International Surfing Association. She had some success in pro contests such as the Converse and Margaritaville longboard events. Crummer also competed in the ISP (International Surfing Professionals)—the precursor to the ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals)—where her best season ended with her being ranked No. 17 in the world in women’s shortboard. During that time, big titles were elusive but as a prolific competitor she racked up a long list of victories. The constant shooting and competing led to a bit of a burnout. Restless and looking for a new adventure, she left the coast behind in about 1994 and set out to see the rest of the country. From the Pacific Northwest and desert Southwest to the East Coast, Crummer tried a variety of jobs from transporting cars cross-country to banking. The pull of the ocean took hold once again and in 2002 she returned to the West Coast, competitive surfing and surf photography. She added judging to her repertoire and became the threetime U.S. longboard women’s cham-
pion in 2002, 2003 and 2004. Then, at the age of 62, was runner-up in 2012, and then again in 2013. A longtime WSA board of directors member, she became the association’s official photographer in 2005. She is now the Scholastic Surf Series photographer, web master, social media director and a regular on the judging panel. She has also been the official photographer of the San Clemente Ocean Festival for four years. Crummer’s work was most recently published in Foam Symmetry Magazine out of New Zealand, in the form of a two-page spread featuring WSA and Surfing America Prime surfer Frankie Seely. In addition to her regular gigs, Crummer has become sought after for private photo sessions with the area’s most promising groms, as well as seasoned adults. Her love for experiencing the magic of wave riding from both atop a surfboard and behind the lens has remained a passion Crummer hopes to continue for the rest of her life. “I love both and enjoy incorporating my surfing and judging abilities into my work,” she said. “Through the lens I can capture the perfect moment in time and share the stoke. If my photos evoke emotions, whatever they may be, then I was a success.” SC