San Clemente August 2017

San Clemente AUGUST 2017

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Lifestyle Letter

Lifestyle Letter

AUGUST 2017

"I

celebrate myself, and what I assume you shall assume, For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.

I loafe and invite my Soul, I lean and loafe at my ease ... observing a spear of summer grass."

- Walt Whitman

A Soul Surfer if there ever was one, is none other than Henry Ford.

When this California legend started surfing Hermosa back in the 1950’s, his mentors were Hoppy Swartz, the Meistrell brothers and Rich n Gidget Leroy Grannis. During the era of surf clubs, Ford was also a regular at Malibu during the summers along with surfing legend's Terry Tracey, Mike Doyle, Mickey Dora, Johnny Fain, Mickey Munoz, and Gidget herself.

Amazingly enough, to this day, Ford still charges with the same stoke that now goes back some 70 yrs! And he still knows Gidget!

PUBLISHER

Gia Luciano | Gia.Luciano@LifestylePubs.com PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Rich Saunders | Rich.Saunders@LifestylePubs.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Lindsay Linegar | Lindsay.Linegar@LifestylePubs.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsay Linegar, Donna Bond, Bill Thomas, Rich Saunders CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Lindsay Linegar, Donna Bond, Rich Saunders, Gia Luciano

We thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Ford. Chatting with him about the history of Surf was music to our ears.

Speaking of music, San Clemente's own 'Tunnel Vision' is Rock'n the USA. We had a chance to say hello and get some of their thoughts on San Clemente, and what it was like to charge it in Africa, some 19,341 ft above sea level!

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Happy August San Clemente!

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ON THE COVER Chuck Linnen / Henry

Ford / Mike Doyle / Robert August / Nikki 4

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

TALK TO US

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 San Clemente Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of San Clemente’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in San Clemente Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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August 2017

Departments

17

8

Good Times

14

Locals Only

24

Artist’s Palette

28

Inspired By

30

Local Limelight

32

Trend Setter

33

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

14 Tunnel Vision summits Mt. Kilimanjaro, and performs!

Local Band Hikes For a Cause

17 The Soul of Surf

An Interview with Henry Ford

24 Local Business Owner and Artist Opens Gallery In North Beach

The Inspiration to Open an Art Gallery

28 Local Musician Inspires Community

One Man's Journey Through Music

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24

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Good Times

Shoreline Dental shows Appreciation to Their Patients Cory and Dr. Kristen Ritzau, along with their wonderful staff at Shoreline Dental, host 'Patient Appreciation Event' on June 17.

Everyone in attendance enjoyed lots of good food, music, prizes, games and good vibes!

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

9

Good Times

Rick J. Delanty's Annual Open Home Studio & Gallery Exhibition

On June 3-4, Rick J. Delanty opened his home to the public for his 21st annual art exhibition and sale, featuring original paintings of San Clemente and the California coastline. The event featured wine, good food, and fantastic artwork, with partial proceeds to benefit Family Assistance Ministries.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

Coalition to Save San Clemente (CSSC) has established a political action committee (PAC)

CSSC held its first fundraising event on Thursday, May 25, at Bella Collina San Clemente, to oppose proposals for toll roads through San Clemente. Dan Bane, an environmental attorney, has been working with Eva O’Keefe, a local activist who is helping to champion an effort to oppose the toll roads.

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

11

Good Times

Courtney's SandCastle Joins 'Fun on the Run' bringing learning program for special needs children Courtney's SandCastle Charitable Foundation proudly joined with 'Fun on the Run' on June 17 to bring gardening and sensory art to

special needs children and their siblings, run by 'Special Fishies.' The children enjoyed painting their own planters, digging and planting, along with sensory fun activities and games.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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Locals Only

SAN CLEMENTE 'S

Tunnel Vision

SUMMITS MT. KILIMANJARO, AND PERFORMS! At the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro (L-R) Hayden Hanson (guitar, lead vocals), Daniel ‘DELA’ Delacruz (Slightly Stoopid sax player), Tanner Payan (drums, backup vocals), Jacob Hernandez (bass)

ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

T

he meaning of the San Clemente band Tunnel Vision’s name was

live-streamed concert ever. The ultimate goal was to raise awareness

partly inspired by the love of surf. All members of the band surf

around elephant poaching and support the efforts of WildLife First

and have an appreciation for the view one gets while being in the

Foundation and the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation. You can find

tube of a wave. The name also reflects the importance of maintaining

out more about the concert at TunnelVisionSC.com and if you

focus in order to achieve a goal.

would like to contribute to this important cause, visit Tunnel Vision’s

A few members of the punk/reggae band had played together in

Facebook Page at Facebook.com/TunnelVisionSC/.

high school, but they went separate ways for a few years. Circa 2013,

The band is currently on a national tour with The Expendables and

lead singer and guitarist Hayden Hanson, drummer and back-up

Reel Big Fish. We caught up with Hanson while he was enjoying a

vocalist Tanner Payan and bass player Jacob Hernandez regrouped

day off in New Hampshire and asked him a few questions:

and started playing with more focus. All three young men were also

WHAT WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF PLAYING ON THE PEAK OF MOUNT

working for Lost, which is how they met keyboard player Matt Risley

KILIMANJARO? It was pretty surreal to be up above the clouds playing

and saxophone player Doug Alani.

music for a good cause. It was pretty gnarly. We were up there for

Tunnel Vision started playing different venues in Orange

two and a half hours and we were only supposed to be up there for

County and San Diego County. They were eventually picked up by

20 minutes. Everyone was showing signs of altitude wear. The climb

WhiskeyBarrel Records through manager, Anthony Levato. Through

took five days. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life.

Levato and WhiskeyBarrel Records, the band was then connected to

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING ON TOUR? Being in a

San Diego band, Slightly Stoopid. It was in Slightly Stoopid’s studio,

new place every night and meeting new people. My least favorite part

“The Lab” where Tunnel Vision recorded their first album. The self-

is the driving. Sometimes we have to drive 18 hours at a time.

titled album came out in July 2015.

WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT SAN CLEMENTE WHEN YOU’RE

The band has continued to have tunnel vision over the last few

OUT ON TOUR? There’s nothing like our beaches anywhere in the

years, both in and out of the water. In February of this year, along with

country. We have the perfect climate and the best waves. Also,

DELA of Slightly Stoopid, Tunnel Vision summited Mount Kilimanjaro

burritos from La Tiendita.

and played a concert at the peak. The summit was sponsored by

The band returns home to San Clemente at the end of July. You

WhiskeyBarrel Records and guided by world-renowned expedition-

can catch them playing on the main stage at Fiesta on Sunday,

ist, Johan Ernst Nilson. The band set a world record for the highest

August 13th at 1 pm.

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

Chuck Linnen / Henry Ford / Mike Doyle / Robert August / Nikki

ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR

CONTINUED >

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

17

THE SOUL OF SURF (CON TI N U ED)

Henry Ford doing his famous “drop-knee turn”

irst thing I want to do is remind you I’m from the past,” says Henry

committed to the sport and made it a lifestyle, which has now become

Ford, as we began the interview.

a part of the American culture. He and Habig referred to the surfers

The San Clemente Lifestyle team met with Ford and Jim Habig

along the coast as “one tribe”. There was no surf tribalism, and there

in North Beach to hear about the importance of preserving the

were no geographic restraints either. Everyone was simply passionate

area’s classic surf culture.

and excited about surfing and the ocean. A handful of those people

Ford pulled out a thick scrapbook filled with treasures he’s

were responsible for taking the surf industry to a whole new level.

been collecting for decades. In it were pages from Surfer

San Clemente was the hub of excitement for surfing, which included

Magazine with his name on it, including one from the most recent

manufacturing. In the beginning, surfboards were made out of redwood

publication, along with the iconic “drop-knee turn” shot captured in

and other woods and weighed 100 plus pounds. Surfers left their boards

Hermosa Beach by the preeminent surf photographer from the 50’s

on the beach because nobody was going to take them. There was a

and 60’s, Leroy Grannis. Ford says Grannis was in knee-deep water

desire during the early days for better surf equipment and better ways

when he took the shot, which first appeared in the bi-monthly version

to ride boards and waves. Ford says there was a small group of guys

of Surfer Magazine before it became a monthly publication.

who blazed the trail. Guys like Walter Hoffman and Wayne Schaffer, both

Ford also starred in some of Bruce Brown’s films, such as Surfing

of whom started the Poche Surf Club, as well as Ronald, Robert and

Hollow Days and Barefoot Adventure, and became known as one of

Raymond Patterson, Gordon “Grubby” Clark and Hobie Alter, introduced

the “hotdoggers” of the day because of his epic surfing in Hawaii. He

new materials such as balsa wood, polyurethane foam, resin, fiberglass

reminisced with us about making Brown’s first film, Slippery When

and Hawaiian-style apparel that shaped the classic surf culture.

Wet in the late 50’s with friends Freddy Pfhaler, Kemp Aaberg, Del

According to Ford, the passion of these guys to create new prod-

Cannon and Dick Thomas. He still surfs with Walter Hoffman who

ucts came from a profound love of the ocean and surfing. These

was pictured in the photographs from the opening scene, along with

founders of the surf industry were true watermen. They were life-

some of the other guys from the film, right across from the ARCO

guards, divers and fisherman. Habig says they didn’t simply paddle

station at Poche Beach, where he now lives.

around but lived off of the ocean. They would go diving and get some

“That’s how long friendships last in the surfing community,” he says.

fish to eat for lunch. They didn’t have a lot of money, but they had a lot

Ford says back in those days; there were about 200-250 surfers on

of love and respect for the ocean, and they utilized it in a holistic way.

the coast of California. They were hard-core; the real deal. They were 18

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

They also cared for it and did their part to keep it clean.

A true waterman himself, Ford spent several years as a lifeguard

out – then we paddle out. Mother nature gives you something that’s

in Malibu and the South Bay region. Originally from Hermosa Beach,

unbelievable and then to be able to ride mother nature, to mix with

he made San Clemente his second home because it was where he

her and enjoy her, is beyond. It’s hard to explain to somebody. You

wanted to surf. Thanks to spots throughout Trestles, such as Cottons

have to live it to truly understand it.”

Point, Uppers, Lowers, Church and San-O' he deemed San Clemente

The soul surfer then joked with us about how he nearly asked to

the epicenter of surfing in the United States. While living in Hermosa

reschedule the interview because there was supposed to be good

Beach, he spent many summers surfing in San Clemente and work-

surf that day. Ford loves surfing so much he has continued to paddle

ing at the Velzy and Jacobs shop. In the late 80’s, he retired from life-

out at Poche with the sharks. He also turned down an offer to play a

guarding and relocated to San Clemente where he’s lived ever since.

role in Endless Summer back in the 60’s. He had to choose between

Ford’s love of surfing and the ocean is palpable. While describing

the film or lifeguarding, and he chose lifeguarding because it meant

what it’s like to surf in the morning, he gave us pause.

“In the morning, sometimes, when it’s not even light yet; you’re paddling out, and it’s like going to church…” Ford says, just before breaking into tears. “We get up before dawn, we get our boards ready, and we go down. We wait for the light – just enough to paddle

”

he could surf every day.

“BEING FAMOUS: FORGET IT,” HE SAYS. “I’D RATHER

CONTINUED >

Henry Ford

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

19

THE SOUL OF SURF (CON TI N U ED)

Henry Ford and the Original Surf Photographer Leroy Grannis

Other soul surfers from Ford’s era have been rapidly fading out. He and Habig expressed concern that with these losses, pieces of the classic surf culture will also fade away unless it is captured and preserved. They say Dick Metz made a step in the right direction by founding the Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center right here in San Clemente.

Metz founded the organization, which was formally known as the Surfing Heritage Foundation, in 2002. He brought a vision to preserve the classic surf culture, along with a plethora of old surfboards and other artifacts he had collected over the years. The Surf Heritage and Cultural Center is “dedicated to preserving, presenting and promoting surfing’s heritage for the appreciation and education of current and future generations; and achieving (their) goal of surfing being more accurately understood, represented and enjoyed” (SurfingHeritage.org).

Having volunteered himself many times, Ford says it’s like the holy grail to some of the surfers from his era.

“Even after all these years and all the time I’ve spent there and in the industry,” he says, “I get chicken skin still.

I get goosebumps because it reflects the growth of a culture, the origin and the sport.”

He says the center preserves the rich stories that created surfing culture that may be lost otherwise. He refers to it as an obtuse culture but says it has honor and respectability.

With over a million photographs, including original photos from Surfer Magazine, visitors are sure to have a vivid experience at the Surfing Heritage and Cultural Center.

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

Henry Ford, Skip Frye and Surf Dog

At a national level, surfing was recently recognized as an official part

“Everything that’s pure about the origin

of American culture at the Smithsonian. In August 2015, Ford was part

of surfing gets lost in the commercialism,”

of a group, including Bruce Brown, Robert August, Mike Hynson, John

says Habig.

Van Hamersveld, Paul Strauch, Greg Noll, Fred Hemmings, Joey Cabell,

He says there is something profoundly

Robert “Wingnut” Weaver, Tom Morey, Jericho Poppler, Patti Paniccia

pure about surfing. No two waves are the

and many more icons, that donated precious surfing artifacts to the

same, and there’s an element of connection

Smithsonian. Included in those artifacts were the original 16mm film

to the natural world, and a sense of wonder

from Endless Summer and the original Duke Kahanamoku’s redwood

that comes from that. The classic, soul surfers

surfboard shaped in Corona Del Mar, Orange County. He reflects fondly

were intimately familiar with the inherent awe

on the visit and says it was the “quintessential stamp of approval” to

of surfing and Habig says somewhere along

have surfing finally, officially be part of the American Culture.

the way, commercialism almost suffocated

Ford and Habig both acknowledge that surfing culture contin-

that. For him, it’s important to remember his

ues on today, but that it has changed. They fear some aspects from

roots and to pay homage to the guys who

the classic culture are being lost. They encourage surfers of recent

adventured out in the beginning. In light of

generations and the current generation, as well as others to learn

this, he has been on his own adventure to find

the history if they haven’t already.

and sell the best surf properties in the world.

CONTINUED >

Photo courtesy of Eric Heinz/ San Clemente Times

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

21

THE SOUL OF SURF (CON TI N U ED)

Jim Habig and Henry Ford at Their Office Meeting

Habig is President of International Surf Properties – the #1 international surf real estate company with the mission to “cre-

handles all aspects of each country’s real estate requirements to make a smooth (and legal) purchase of that perfect property.

ate the world’s largest portal for surf-minded buyers, sellers and

Ford became Director of Business Development earlier this year.

investors of villas, developments and business opportunities

He is also included on the Board of Directors and is an owner of

that are located on or near quality surf breaks around the world”

International Surf Properties. At 78 years old, he says he was trying to

(InternationalSurfProperties.com). He and his team aim to help

retire, but he saw value in what was being done through the company.

surf-minded people build the life they always wanted.

In the beginning, surfing was relegated to a small geographic area: the

Inspired by his mentors like Dale Velzy, Ford, Alter and Clark; Habig

California coast, parts of the East Coast and Hawaii. Over time, how-

wanted to offer a classic surf adventure to a whole new generation,

ever, surfing has gone global. It will even be part of the 2020 Olympics.

and even to surfers from Ford’s generation. Reminiscent of those

Ford recognizes how many places there are to surf worldwide and

early explorations that were captured in films like Slippery When Wet,

shares Habig’s passion to help people live the surfer’s dream.

wherein the characters were driven by a desire to discover the exotic

With a rich history in videography, including filming at Ford’s

waves of Hawaii, Habig has created a way for surfers to keep ventur-

famous Rabbit Kekai contests, Habig has created a way for interested

ing out into more and more places.

buyers to shop for their dream property with ease.

“There’s nothing better for a surfer than to discover a new country, a new break, a new wave and a great experience,” he says.

“Short of riding a wave, you can be there,” says Ford.

Habig and his team use interactive video to capture the properties

With International Surf Properties, Habig and his team have made

and the surf in a way that makes people feel like they are already there.

it possible for people to make new discoveries in Mexico, Panama,

They have teamed up with Mantis 3-D to bring viewers a completely

Costa Rica, El Salvador, Indonesia, the Caribbean and points beyond.

interactive experience as they walk through the properties via state

These destinations provide everything a surfer needs. The team

of the art 3-D technology. The visitor will be able to walk through a

22

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

multitude of exotic houses from around the world, look out the windows to see the views, check out the waves and walk the properties without even leaving their own home. The team at International Surf Properties live in the same world as their prospective buyers. They have knowledge about waves and tides and anything else of interest to a surfer

“

looking into buying the ideal surf property. Plus, the team knows how to handle the technical aspects.

“But it starts with the passion,” says Habig.

It starts with the passion that originates from the

”

classic culture and the original soul surfers. You don't have to be rich to own one of these surf properties.

Ford went in with three guys to purchase and build an amazing surf compound in Boca Barranca, Costa Rica, as well as a custom home at The Ranch in Zihuatanejo.

He says it made sense for them to buy a home together because there’s a kinship that has remained part of their lifestyle since the beginning. They still travel together, surf together and talk about it every day.

“Live the life you love, love the life you live. Surfing is the ultimate experience a surfer can share,” says Ford.

“

” August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

23

Artist’s Palette

LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER AND ARTIST OPENS GALLERY IN NORTH BEACH ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR

O

24

Brian McCracken speaks to guests at the Opening Event

n February 25, 2017Â the OC

started drawing landscapes on family

Contemporary

opened

vacations, which led to experimenta-

in San Clemente. Situated in a unique

tion with pastel, crayon, colored pencils

and charming setting in North Beach,

and paint pens, among other materials.

the gallery features a wide variety of

Around 2013, he decided to dive into oil

works in his personal art collection,

contemporary art and photography. The

on canvas almost exclusively.

which he started about eight years ago.

Gallery

gallery was opened by long-time San

As in other areas of his life where he

He owns a software company (also in

Clemente resident, business owner, and

has excelled, McCracken is self-taught.

San Clemente) and initially furnished the

artist, Brian McCracken.

While he has collected art of all types

building that houses it with art by local

McCracken has been creating all his

over the years, his style is all his own.

artists like Drew Brophy, Christian Wach

life. An incessant doodler growing up, he

He has been influenced by artists and

and photographer Jason Murray.

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

House Artist Thomas Elliot with his abstract expressionism piece “Orange and Gray”

Thomas Elliot's "Avocado Gold" abstract expressionism piece using acrylic on canvas

When McCracken met his first true art dealer in the Gordon James restaurant one evening, he was introduced to the world of fine, collectible art. He quickly learned about investing in art and how different kinds of art hold, or don’t hold their value over time. The dealer, since deceased, helped McCracken with his first fine art purchase of an original Erte painting from 1904 that, besides greatly appreciating in value, brings pleasure to him every day as he passes by it ten times a day in his home.

One of the first artists McCracken began to collect was a street artist from New York called Crash. Also known as Graffiti Art and Urban Art, this genre of contemporary art has evolved from something only found in subways and alleys to living rooms and museums. Facilitated by the online art market and auctions, McCracken was soon investing in Picasso ceramics and Warhol prints.

Owner & Director of OC Contemporary Gallery, Brian McCracken

McCracken loves to learn and grow and has been educating himself about art history and different ways to make art. From books CONTINUED >

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

25

Artist’s Palette

(CON TI N U ED)

A view of the Gallery from the courtyard

to trips to New York’s galleries and museums, to meeting many of the artists in the local and Southern California area; he has acquired an appreciation for the vastness and variety of the art world, and just how engrained it is in virtually everyone’s life in some way.

With the OC Contemporary Gallery, McCracken is fulfilling his dream of having a place to both create, to share his collection with others, and to celebrate the creations of some of the most talented artists of San Clemente and Orange County with the world.

One of the local artists represented at the OC Contemporary Gallery is another long-time San Clemente resident, Thomas Elliot. Elliot is a genuine piece of San Clemente and very well educated in the facets of art. He combines those together to take an art piece from a standalone presence to the next level as a well-presented and preserved one through the framing, and in some cases, restoring process.

As a customer of Elliot’s, McCracken learned a lot by taking his acquired works to him for framing. He came to appreciate Elliot’s keen eye for color, scale, and composition. Little did he know that Elliot also applied these things to his own art that he produced outside of his day job.

When McCracken considered opening a gallery in San Clemente, Elliot was an obvious source of information, advice, and encouragement to him.

And when McCracken saw what he was producing, the relationship grew again as he chose Elliot as one of the gallery’s first house artists.

Being in the gallery has inspired Elliot to produce more work, and build quite a following on Instagram. His works are amongst the most well received in the gallery, as they fit that contemporary, free-form, color-driven aesthetic that defines the place. McCracken regards Elliot not only as a very talented artist in his gallery, but as an advisor, friend, and partner in this new venture to bring beauty and happiness into the lives of as many people as possible.

OC Contemporary Gallery is located at 1509 N El Camino Real, open Wednesday through Saturday from 12-6pm and by appointment at 888-948-0086.

With an international presence online as well, it sells and rents original art, high-end secondary market works, photography, and sculpture. The venue is also available to rent for special events. Visit OCCGallery.com for more information.

Brian McCracken's "Spices" being viewed at the Opening Event

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San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

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VISIT US AT SanClementeLifestylePubs.com August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

27

Inspired By

Local Musician Inspires Community S

an Clemente local, Luther Rowe has been on a long journey to beat cancer. He and wife, Brenda Eisenhower-Rowe got news of pancreatic can-

cer in March 2016. Shortly after, Luther got rushed into surgery in an attempt to remove the tumor but was rudely awoken an hour after the surgery had started.

The cancer had metastasized to his liver, and chemotherapy would be the only option. His oncologist at the time felt Luther was past the point of no return.

Though he had shown a good response to the chemo, the oncologist still felt there was nothing they could do. According to medical opinion, he had a three to eight percent chance of surviving.

28

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

ARTICLE LINDSAY LINEGAR

“At that point, we were pretty well destroyed,” says Luther. “We didn’t know what to do.”

audience members at the high school talent show. Three white sons of church leaders being in a band with a black kid was audacious. Luther

His friends had an idea what to do. Some of the local firemen, OC

says it was one of the best things he ever did.

Tavern folks and musician friends of Luther’s got together to put on

Over the last 16 months, he has channeled that audacity to keep

a benefit. On July 8, 2016, over 400 people showed up at the OC

fighting cancer. He has continued to use music to keep himself occu-

Tavern to lend support. The community wanted Luther to take care of

pied and his thoughts away from the negative. Brenda and friends have

himself, which was reflected not only in the amount of money raised

encouraged him to keep picking up gigs. Though it’s difficult for him to

but in the emotional support given. Luther says he and Brenda went

play longer than two hours at a time, he keeps on playing. Locally, you

through about three to four months of intense grief in the beginning

can catch him at Adele’s on the second Friday of every month.

and found it incredibly difficult to focus on the positive.

“After the event,” he says, “we were finally able to … grow away from the morbid side of it all and move into the ‘let’s live’ side.”

Despite early medical opinions, cancer has shrunk. Luther was able to find an oncologist with a more positive outlook and is currently doing radiation in an effort to shrink cancer more

Music has been another key in the battle. Luther started playing guitar

and eventually, remove it completely. He says the positivity of

in 1961 when he was just seven or eight years old. His neighbors were

his oncologist has given him hope, and he believes it has been

rockabillies, and they helped to grow his interest in playing. He was also

a factor in helping him beat cancer. He has also found hope

very involved in choir at the church where his father was the minister. By

through the music, the support of his community and of course,

high school, Luther says he was already fighting difficult battles with the

his number one fan, Brenda. Luther recognizes how challenging

help of music. He grew up in a highly segregated part of the south, and

the journey has been for his wife as well, and he’s overwhelm-

some of his best friends were black. One of those friends happened to

ingly grateful to have her by his side.

be the lead singer in his band which caused a loud, collective gasp by

“God knows the support from her has been amazing,” he says.

Luther Rowe and Brenda Eisenhower-Rowe

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

29

Local Limelight

THE MIKE TO MIC

MUSIC MAN

ARTICLE BILL THOMAS

30

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

IN

1966, Mike Chamberlin, then 18 years

the U.S. Army.” That letter introduced Mike

old, moved to San Clemente with

into a tour of duty in Vietnam with the 9th

his parents to enjoy a first sunny summer

Infantry Division.

of surfing and music. When he entered San

Upon his return to the States, still hope-

Clemente High School, the Rolling Stones

ful for a career in music, he enrolled in a

were at the top of the hit parade and war was

Hollywood broadcasting school preparing

raging in Asia. And, among his new acquain-

him for his 40-year career in media. He was

tances, he met Fred Swegles, now a veteran

a broadcaster or Telecaster in Monterey,

reporter for the City’s Sun Post newspaper.

Sacramento,

They also played together in a popular local

Angeles before landing in Arizona where

band, and Fred taught Mike how to play

he primarily served as a microphone man

the guitar. In addition, Mike later married

for sports, including 10 years with ESPN as

Fred’s sister, Barbara. While in high school,

a water sports analyst. He queried himself:

Mike played tennis captaining the team. He

“Who would have thought my years of surf-

dropped out of college to pursue a career as

ing San Clemente beaches would eventually

a rock and roll musician. Seeking record con-

pay off by traveling the world reporting on

tracts and fans, he instead received a brown

body surfing, windsurfing, board surfing,

envelope in his mailbox, which read – “Dear

and jet skiing?” Besides water sports, he

Mr. Chamberlin, you have been drafted into

also covered numerous National Basketball

San

Francisco,

and

Los

tournaments, the World Series, countless

Some of the most beautiful songs of all time

Super Bowls, and other popular sporting

came out of the early 1940’s and the country’s

events. He gained an enormous audience

calls to arms,” Mike declared.

throughout Arizona, having become a pop-

Perhaps his most memorable show was

ular broad and Telecaster. However, music

in October 2016, when he performed at a

was still a hobby and he played with a trio

WWII reunion aboard the Queen Mary in

which entertained all over the state. Mike

Long Beach. “There must have been close

recalled: “ My claim to fame is that I got into

to a thousand people gathered in the ship’s

the business when they needed broadcast-

main ballroom to honor WW vets,” Mike

ers and got out when they didn’t.”

lamented. “As I looked over the crowd, I saw

Retiring to his beloved San Clemente had

a lot of hand-holding and a lot tears. I think I

always been a family plan with wife Barbara

hit a special place in their hearts that night.”

also having been raised and schooled here.

In commemorating Pearl Harbor, Mike has

“San Clemente was the only coastal California

created a compact disc of 1940 love songs.

city that never sold out, We adored the

A beneficiary is the Disabled American

place,” Mike recalled. Besides, in 2008, he

Veterans (DAV). He has also prepared

had traded a broadcast microphone for a

another cd entitled “Music from the Movies

music microphone and began his renewed

– Oscar Winning Songs,” which has also

career by booking musical rock and roll and

proven very popular. With the success of the

popular tune performances honoring veterans

recent movie “La La Land,” the continuous

throughout Southern California. He primarily

movie theater showings of such musically-in-

performed in senior centers, favoring love

clined films as “Beauty and the Beast” as well

songs from World War Two. “The only way I

as other “oldies,” and Mike’s intermingling of

could honor these heroes was through music.

his singing with stories about the singers or the film’s subject; his personal interaction with audience members is rare and appealing. After performing at Hollywood’s Motion Picture Retirement Home last year, he was immediately signed up for four more performances. Since re-entering his musical entertainment career, Mike has performed over 2,500 musicals, primarily for Senior Citizen Retirement Centers, veteran groups, and mobile park homes. Last year alone, he headlined over 300 shows.

Mike reported, “At the end of the day, I’m on my deck in San Clemente, staring at Catalina with my guitar in hand, forever working on a new song I can weave into the next show. I’m blessed to have lived my teenage years and my retirement years here.” He then added, “See you at Fisherman’s.”

Mike Chamberlain can be contacted at SingingTVGuy.com

August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

31

Trend Setter

! n su

Girls Just Wanna Have

ARTICLE AND

PHOTOGRAPHY GIA LUCIANO

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32

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

August WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2017 | 7:00 PM MATERIALS: $35

Lifestyle Calendar

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SUCCULENT FLOWER ARRANGEMENT

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by Billy Wilder. The plot follows two male musicians who dress in

AUGUST 13

drag and masquerade as female band members in order to escape a

FIESTA MUSIC FESTIVAL

sticky situation. A hilarious misadventure ensues when the musicians

DOWN TOWN SAN CLEMENTE 100-200 BLOCKS DEL MAR

become entangled with the lead singer of the female band.

Fiesta Music Festival features activities for the whole family, including

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food and game booths sponsored by local nonprofit organizations, three stages with continuous live music throughout the day, contests for all ages, a salsa challenge, arts & crafts show, business expo, children's rides, action sports expo and much more.

For more information call the San Clemente Chamber at (949) 492-1131

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August 2017 | San Clemente Lifestyle

This unique and beautiful space is available to rent for

33

Parting Thoughts

WHAT IS YOUR ARTICLE DONNA BOND

Song? defined by my job. I knew that song well. It was familiar. So, I kept singing it, though there was another song rising within me.

As I came into alignment with my wanting to be a Professional Life Coach and Spiritual Teacher, it was painful for my ego to let go of my Hospitality Executive identity. I also had self-judgements

“DON’T DIE WITH YOUR MUSIC STILL IN YOU.” - WAYNE DYER

W

about saying I was a Life Coach and Spiritual Teacher. What would people say? My ego was VERY proud of the executive hospitality aspect of myself. It was a familiar and respected song - according to society anyway. One that I knew how to sing. Though I learned the

hen I talk about your song, I am speaking of the longing of your heart. The deep desire of your soul for expression in this world.

It is the sharing of your most authentic self. For some, it may be cre-

notes long ago from someone else.

I was missing out on and veiling the really juicy, dynamic, deeply soulful parts of myself. The reality of Who I Truly AM. MY song.

ating actual music or another art form. For others, it may be simply

Allowing my ‘voice’ to be heard was scary for me. But my willingness

baking for people you love, or caring for a garden. Perhaps it’s trav-

to temporarily sing off key in the beginning while I was finding the right

eling into new cultures, studying quantum physics, or the freedom of

note, was part of the process. It was part of discovering the right harmo-

ice skating on frozen ponds. What is it for you?

nies within and building my confidence. It was part of letting go of the

Discovering and singing your own song – regardless of whether it ever becomes your vocation - is what this life is about. What you came to planet earth for.

judgments I had about myself, my false identity, my past experience of allowing my voice to be lost in the chorus.

But I did it. And you can too. Now that I am singing MY song, every-

Following your joy and singing the song of your heart connects

thing in my world is different. It’s more alive. Richer. More fun and fulfill-

you to who you really are. To your true nature. What brings you joy?

ing. As I now sing my song I am uplifted, expanded and brought to new

Discovering and acting on these things is the key to the happiness and

heights in my heart and mind.

fulfillment all of us are seeking.

Many don’t follow their heart’s urgings because they’re worried about what others may think. Or think it needs to generate income and can’t see

Your song is in you. More than anything, it wants to be expressed. It wants to ring out with authentic power and knowing, with inspiration and creativity and enthusiasm. And the world is waiting to hear it.

how that could be possible. But when you discover your own song, other

True expression comes from within. Inspiration comes from the

people’s opinions won’t matter. You will be singing for your own sense of

deep knowing that we are connected to something more than our

joy. Your own personal fulfillment.

physical selves, more than our environment, our circumstances, and

Who you are is not what you do for a living. Have you noticed that

way more than our jobs.

when you meet someone for the first time, usually the first things we

The Universe, or, UNI = one, VERSE = song, is a collective chorus

ask is, “What do you do?” By asking this tribal question, we think it

that we all participate in. Expressing who we really are in this world -

immediately tells us about the other person. But it really doesn’t.

signing our own part with courage and passion - is our contribution to

Perhaps in taking this journey, you may discover you’ve been sing-

the symphony of life on earth.

ing someone else’s song without realizing it. I made a massive career

So, the next time you’re at a cocktail party meeting someone for

change when I was 46 and went through a mourning process over

the first time, don’t ask them what they do. Instead, ask them, “What

my work identity. Especially because for 28 years I believed that I was

do you love? What makes you come alive? What is your song?”

34

San Clemente Lifestyle | August 2017

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