January 28, 2016

LO C A L

January 28 - February 3, 2016

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

Third Annual Benefit Skate Contest PAGE 18 VOLUME 11, ISSUE 4

La Pata Nears Completion The long-awaited extension from San Clemente to San Juan Capistrano will be done in fall EYE ON SC/PAGE 6

San Clemente Deputy Public Works Director Tom Bonigut speaks to the public about the La Pata Extension project during a hike on Saturday, Jan. 23. Photo: Eric Heinz

Freeway-Oriented Signs Could be Banned in San Clemente EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

North Beach Community Association Surveys Residents LIVING/PAGE 12

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Triton Report: Girls Soccer Readies for Rematch Against Aliso Niguel SPORTS/PAGE 14

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week Ordinance Would Disallow Large FreewayFacing Signs THE LATEST: During the Jan. 20 Planning Commission meeting, the commissioners voted 6-1 to approve a sign ordinance for city council that includes the prohibition of commercial signs that entice the highway.

The proposal states “Not allowing freeway-oriented signs and signs larger than 64 square feet will reduce distraction to drivers and increase safety on our local streets and freeways.”

A major retailer who has filed applications for freeway-facing signs is Steve Craig, the CEO of Craig Realty and owner of the Outlets at San Clemente. The mall opened in November with no signage that faced the freeway.

Current signs that engage the freeway will have to be completely removed in 25 years.

The ordinance also requires that if 50 percent of a nonconforming sign that is grandfathered is altered or changed, it must be brought into compliance with the current ordinance.

“It won’t be instantaneous removal, but allowing them to stay for another 25 years…that time frame of removal will be discussed at that time,” Associate City Planner Sean Nichols said.

The removal of the freeway signs was first made a priority for planning staff by City Council. The definitions defined in the ordinance make a distinction between “freeway-oriented” and “freeway visible.”

Freeway visible are signs that are seen from the freeway but are not necessarily means to attract motorists from the freeway to the business like freeway-oriented signs.

Business owners spoke during the public hearing portion of the meeting and urged the commission not to infringe on their right to promote their businesses.

Planning Commissioner Zhen Wu said he did not vote in favor because of the 25year grace period, but other than that he was in favor of it.

WHAT’S NEXT: San Clemente City Council will examine the ordinance at a future meeting, likely to be discussed next month. —Eric Heinz San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

Bill Could Allow for Nuclear Waste to Transfer from SONGS THE LATEST: House Resolution 3643, which is currently awaiting to be read by committees in the U.S. Congress, would allow for temporary storage of spent nuclear fuel instead of requiring it to be stored at a permanent facility required by current law.

There are facilities that could house the spent fuel instead of requiring it to be stored on-site at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, which has been an issue of contention since the closure of the nuclear facility in 2013.

The resolution was brought forth by Texas Rep. Michael Conway and has support from California Rep. Darrell Issa.

During the City Council reports portion of the Jan. 19 meeting, Councilman Tim Brown, who is the vice chairman of the SONGS Community Engagement Panel, said the panel has been trying to find an interim solution for the Department of Energy, which has the overall authority of the spent nuclear fuel.

“About eight months ago, we figured an interim storage facility would be better than a central nationalized storage facility, as we see from Yucca Mountain in Nevada,” Brown said. “I think this is something that is whole community can get behind.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Brown said he would like the City Council to put together a resolution of support to write letters to advocate for the passage of the resolution. Councilwoman Lori Donchak said she also sent information to surrounding cities. —EH

Coastal Land Use Plan Rescheduled for Feb. 2 City Council Meeting THE LATEST: Because the City Council had a full plate of items at its Jan. 19 meeting, discussions on the Coastal Land Use Plan have been continued to the Tuesday, Feb. 2, city council meeting. The last time the CLUP was discussed it took more than two hours just for City Council to hear all the concerns from the public.

However, at the Jan. 19 meeting one representative from Capistrano Shores, the entity that has been discussed the most during the process of putting together the document, said they think they’re close to coming to an agreement with the city.

WHAT’S NEXT: The City Council meeting starts at 6 p.m. The agenda can be found at www.san-clemente.org.

(L to R): Hossein Nayeri, 37; Jonathan Tieu, 20; Bac Duong, 42. Photos: Courtesy of Orange County Sheriff’s Department

Sheriffs Continue to Search for Prisoners Who Escaped Santa Ana Jail THE LATEST: Three inmates who escaped from the Central Men’s Jail in Santa Ana last Friday, Jan. 23, remain on the loose as of press time. The three men were scheduled to face trial for crimes ranging from attempted murder to torture. The escapees are Hossein Nayeri, 37; Jonathan Tieu, 20; and Bac Tien Duong, 43.

Nayeri is suspected of collaborating with other suspects to kidnap a medical marijuana dispensary owner, torturing him with a blowtorch, whipping him with a pistol and eventually cutting off his male genitalia. According to court documents, Nayeri and the others thought the owner had money stored somewhere in the desert.

Tieu is suspected of a 2011 gang-related murder in Orange County, and Duong is suspected of attempted murder by shooting inside a home.

All three men were being held and awaiting trial. While Duong was held on $1 million bail, the other two had no bail set.

The men are suspected of escaping through a ventilation tunnel after cutting the screen to the outgoing tunnel. They used linens to rappel from the top of the jail and eventually jumping the fence.

Sheriff’s Deputies on Monday said it is more than likely the suspects have not left the county and could be holed up in the area known as “Little Saigon,” which has a large Vietnamese population. —EH All three of the suspects are to be considered “extremely dangerous,” according to Orange County Sherriff’s Department officials.

“We are utilizing every resource available to ensure these inmates are brought back into custody as quickly as possible,” Page 3

Orange County Sheriff Sandra Hutchens said in a statement on Saturday. “As Sheriff, my utmost concern and primary responsibility is the safety of each Orange County resident. I take this situation very seriously and the men and woman of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will not rest until all three men are captured.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Anyone with information leading to the capture of the men is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department crime hotline at 714.628.7085. The FBI, Orange County and OCSD have collectively announced a $200,000 incentive for people who provide information that leads authorities to the suspects. OCSD continues to provide updates several times daily on the progress of the search.

City Pauses Discussion to Allow Dogs on City Beaches THE LATEST: Following the Beaches, Parks and Recreation decision to forward a plan to City Council to allow for dog access on city beaches, council members said they needed more time to examine the issue.

Some of the issues that would need to be discussed are which parts of the beaches would allow for dogs and how to enforce the ordinance.

WHAT’S NEXT: The discussion of allowing dogs on city beaches is to be discussed at a later council meeting. —EH

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

••• Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

Abolitionist to Travel to Africa to Support Victims of Gender-Based Violence San Clemente abolitionist Kim Yim will travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Tanzania on Feb. 26 with 14 other women to aid the campaign One Million Thumbprints, a grassroots campaign that advocates on behalf of survivors of gender-based violence in war zones, specifically DR Congo, South Sudan, Syria and Iraq.

The group will share stories and hike Mt. Kilimanjaro, carrying thumbprints of the survivors they’ve met.

“This powerful symbolic gesture is a way of both aligning with the suffering of the women we advocate for and offering prayers for peace for all women in areas of extreme conflict,” Yim said in an email.

The San Clemente Abolitionists will host the 4th Annual Valentine’s Day Bake Sale at The Cellar on Saturday, Feb. 13, at 10 a.m., and all donations will go to One Million Thumbprints.

For more information, visit www.onemillionthumbprints.org/team/kim or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/onemillionthumbprints/.

Zachary Fishman Makes Academic Dean’s List at Northwestern College Zachary Fishman, a student at Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, has earned a spot on the Academic Dean’s List for the fall 2015 semester. The Dean’s List is comprised of students who have achieved a semester grade point average of 3.5 or above while carrying a minimum of 12 graded hours.

Fishman is a senior and a business administration/finance and sociology major at Northwestern College and a 2011 graduate of San Clemente High School.

Registration Opens for Boys & Girls Club Indoor Soccer, Baseball The Boys & Girls Club of South Coast Area announces open registration through March 11 for the 2016 Indoor Soccer and RBI Baseball seasons. Soccer players must be between the ages of 6 and 18, and baseball players must be between the ages of 8 and 12. Both boys and girls are welcome, and all young people can register to play soccer, baseball or both sports. The Boys & Girls Club athletic programs are open to all kids regardless of talent level. The club emphasizes sportsmanship and instrucSan Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

tion. All children get ample playing time.

Adults interested in serving as volunteer soccer and baseball coaches are welcome to call Johnny Martinez at 949-484-0207.

Registration forms can be found at www. bgcsca.org.

Money from Fundraiser to Benefit Friends of San Clemente Programs On Nov. 14, Jack’s Surfboards sponsored a surf contest in partnership with the Friends of San Clemente Foundation at T-Street for local children under 16. From the proceeds collected at the event, Jack’s Surfboards donated $2,500 to the Friends of San Clemente Foundation, which is now preparing to use the money for aquatic scholarships as well as swimming and learning programs. For more information about Friends of San Clemente, visit their website at www.friendsofsanclemente.org or call 949.276.8866.

San Clemente FourthGrade Teacher Honored for 30 Years of Teaching Denise McDermott, who was selected as San Clemente’s 2013 Teacher of the Year, was honored at the Diocese of Orange Catholic School Celebration Dinner event on Jan. 15 for her 30 years of teaching fourth grade at Our Lady of Fatima Parish School.

“We have been so blessed by Mrs. McDermott’s dedication and passion for teaching our children for the past 30 years,” Joanne Williams, Our Lady of Fatima principal, said in an email.

Chamber to Host Benefit Dinner for Fellow Employee on Feb. 26 Norma Hernandez was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer in December.

To help Norma and her family, the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce will host a dinner and silent auction at OC Tavern on Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m. All funds will assist the Hernandez family with medical bills.

Chamber staff is setting up a bank account for cash donations. For more information, email normabenefit@gmail.com or call 949.295.6359.

City is Seeking Nominations for an Outstanding Citizen to Honor on the Wall of Recognition Each year, the city of San Clemente seeks to honor community members who have made significant contributions to the community by making it a more produc-

tive and enjoyable place to live, work and play. People can nominate someone they think deserves to be recognized. The selected nominee will be named to the Wall of Recognition.

The qualifications are the nominee must have been a primary resident of San Clemente for at least 10 years and their service to the community must have been performed in the city or can be shown to have directly benefited San Clemente.

A non-profit organization or 10 or more residents may submit a maximum one-page letter explaining the nominee’s contributions, which is to be submitted to the city’s Beaches, Parks and Recreation Department.

The deadline for submitting a nomination is 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 25. Email the letter to stiversm@san-clemente.org or deliver to City of San Clemente, Attn: Wall of Recognition, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, CA 92672.

Mark Schmitt College Bound Program Applications Now Accepted Applications are now being accepted by the Boys & Girls Club of South Coast Area in San Clemente to become part of the Mark Schmitt College Bound program for the 2016-17 academic year. The application deadline is June 30.

The Mark Schmitt College Bound Program is a four-year program that helps students create a path from high school to college. The program seeks to assist students in academics, testing, the college application process and identifying scholarships and financial aid for higher education.

“Mark Schmitt was a dedicated board member and community volunteer at the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area,” a B&G club press release stated.

“Mark believed deeply in the value and importance of higher education and its role in changing and improving the lives of children.”

For additional information, contact Mary Bruner at mbruner@bgcsca.org or 949.484.0205. Applications can be found at www.bgcsca.org under “Programs.”

Ryan Malouff of San Clemente Makes Dean’s List at The Citadel Ryan Malouff of San Clemente earned top honors in the fall 2015 semester at The Citadel South Carolina Corps of Cadets.

Dean’s List recognition is given to cadets registered for 12 or more semester hours and whose grade point average is 3.2 or higher with no grade below a C for the previous semester’s work.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Page 5

Community Meetings THURSDAY, JANUARY 27

Legislative & Transportation Council Noon. Hosted by the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, the meeting will provide information and recommendations about current legislation and maintain relationships with elected officials. Saddleback Memorial Medical Center. 654 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.492.1131.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 31

San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday.

Avenida Del Mar. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2

Sunrise Rotary 7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Course Signature Grille.

990 Avenida Talega, www.scsunriserotary.com.

City Council Meeting 6 p.m. The San Clemente City Council conducts its regularly scheduled meeting at 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8230, www.san-clemente.org.

San Clemente Toastmasters 7 p.m.

The club meets every Tuesday, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for social and networking time. San Clemente Baha’i Center, 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 805.794.0653, www.sanclementetoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Planning Commission Meeting 7 p.m.

The San Clemente Planning Commission conducts its regularly scheduled meeting at 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8230, www.san-clemente.org.

San Clemente Rotary Noon. The San Clemente Rotary meets every Wednesday at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.233.7981, www.sanclementerotary.org.

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EYE ON SC

La Pata Nears Completion

MaryLyn Mares (right) and IvyRose Mares, 5, make the hike to view the progress on the La Pata Extension on Jan. 23. Photo: Eric Heinz

Long-awaited extension to be finished in fall

Plan of Regional Riding and Hiking Trails, according to an Orange County press release.

“It also serves as a maintenance road for the utility companies,” Bonigut said during the hike.

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

he highly anticipated connection of Avenida La Pata from the edge of San Clemente to just outside the city limits of San Juan Capistrano at La Pata Avenue is beginning to take its completed form.

On Saturday, Jan. 23, more than 100 residents journeyed up from Camino Del Rio in San Clemente to the highest point of the arterial highway to view how far the project has come along.

La Pata is expected to be four lanes (two in each direction), and the speed limit for the majority of the stretch will be 50 miles per hour.

The project is estimated to cost $127 million, paid for by state and Orange County Transportation Authority’s Measure M2 funds as well as various other state and local funding. The road goes straight through land facilitated by the Prima Deshecha Landfill. The project will also widen the end of La Pata Avenue in San Juan and connect with Calle Saluda in San Clemente, as well as add a connection to Camino Del Rio. City engineers said they hope the project will help take some of the strain off traffic backups that occur while the I-5 widening projects continue.

The project began in spring 2014 and is expected to be completed by this fall.

San Clemente residents Chris and Gemma Landay said the opening of La Pata will cut down on their commute time when traffic on Interstate 5 becomes congested.

“I’ll definitely use it to get out to Rancho Santa Margarita and parts of San Juan,” Chris said.

The La Pata Extension gap between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano is seen from the San Clemente side.

The project is expected to be completed in the fall. Photo: Eric Heinz

San Clemente Deputy Public Works Director Tom Bonigut speaks to people during the Peek at La Pata hike on Jan. 23. The group paused to discuss the bicycle and pedestrian bridge over La Pata. Photo: Eric Heinz

Gemma said her current commute to San Juan can be as long as 30 minutes on some days when traffic is exceptionally busy.

“I work in San Juan Capistrano, and it will cut down the time on that,” Gemma said. “My commute is good until you hit Ortega, and then that area gets really crowded.”

Deputy Public Works Director Tom

People make the hike up to view La Pata on Jan. 23 in San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz

San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3 2016

Bonigut said people have been waiting for an alternative route to the narrow Pacific Coast Highway and Interstate 5 for decades. Now it’s coming to fruition.

The predicted traffic on the La Pata extension was analyzed in reports that can be reviewed on Orange County’s website, but accurate figures won’t be available until the road opens.

“The La Pata extension is a benefit for San Clemente residents and helps with our intercity circulation because (Camino) Del Rio connects with it and gives people other avenues,” Bonigut said. “It gives them an alternative route. It also gives us another emergency escape route for whatever disaster could occur.”

Bonigut said he has heard a lot of positive feedback regarding the upcoming opening of the road.

“When I talked to people on Saturday’s walk, they were happy to have it done,” he said. “We’re also doing bike lanes and pedestrian sidewalks.”

The bike lanes will be striped like you see in town, and a meandering sidewalk will be adjacent to the road.

Biking and hiking trail connectivity will be completed with the opening of a pedestrian bridge connecting the Prima Deshecha Trail and Forster Ridgeline Trail, which is part of the County’s Master Page 6

CAMINO DEL RIO EFFECT Jennifer Rosales, a city of San Clemente transportation engineer, worked with residents of the area since October to come up with a plan to alleviate the excess traffic. The Planning Commission recently approved the construction of roundabouts at Camino De Los Mares and the Camino Del Rio intersections.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO George Alvarez, San Juan Capistrano city engineer, said he hasn’t heard any negative comments about the opening of La Pata and that it should provide a much needed route for the city’s residents.

“Instead of having to travel from Ortega Highway, you can turn left onto La Pata and that should help reduce some of the traffic through our city,” Alvarez said.

“If there’s a mishap on I-5, it gives you a parallel route.”

Alvarez said he hasn’t spoken with fire department officials or local Orange County sheriffs, but he said, “It’s always good to have as much access to San Clemente as possible. That’s been on the plans for decades. There are some students from Talega that attend San Juan Hills High School.”

Students living in the Talega subdivision, as well as Ladera Ranch, will have priority to attend San Juan Hills because of the Mello-Roos tax imposed on the subdivision, which provides funding for new facilities that included the “acquisition and construction” of the school. New classrooms are planned to accommodate the incoming students.

DANA POINT Although Dana Point will most likely see the smallest effect from the extension, city officials said the completion of La Pata will also give the city some much-needed traffic relief.

“While the city has not taken a formal position on the La Pata Extension, I see a benefit to Dana Point if it provides traffic relief on Interstate 5 and a more direct route to school for our Capistrano Beach students who attend San Juan Hills,” said Doug Chotkevys, Dana Point city manager. SC For more information on the La Pata Extension, visit pcpw.ocpublicworks.com/ projects/lapata. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

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 website.

Monday, January 25 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Interstate 5/Camino De Estrella (12:04 a.m.)A man was standing in the middle of the road with a bat in his hand and yelling toward a closed-down liquor store.

Sunday, January 24 PETTY THEFTAvenida Pico, 900 Block (10:55 p.m.)A woman tried to steal an item, and when the caller tried to stop her the woman became “hysterical.” She was pushing a child in a stroller.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (8:03 p.m.)A man, who was being uncooperative with sheriff’s deputies, said he was maced by his friend.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTACES El Camino Real, 200 Block (5:40 p.m.)

A transient man, described as “heavyset” with long hair and a beard, was threatening a man and customers of a business.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Avenida Vista Montana, 200 Block (5:26 p.m.) A man wielding a gun was threatening the caller’s son. A 38-year-old man, listed as a handyman, was arrested and booked into the Central Men’s Jail on $60,000 bail.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Victoria, 600 Block (9:56 a.m.) A man was on a train without a ticket and acting belligerent and yelling.

VANDALISM Avenida San Juan, 500 Block (8:28 a.m.) A woman noticed three eggs had been thrown at her vehicle.

Saturday, January 23 DISTURBANCE Camino Del Rio/Camino De Los Mares (9:05 p.m.) Police were called to a group of people throwing lemons at passing vehicles.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 300 Block (4:56 p.m.) Police were called to an upper garage where people were reportedly loitering and doing drugs.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Avenida Mateo, 100 Block (11:28 a.m.) A man came to the door repeatedly, not saying much and possibly intoxicated.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES San Clemente Times January 21–27, 2016

Page 7

Calle La Quinta, 3500 Block (7:18 a.m.)

A man went over the fence to the swimming pool and broke into the bathrooms.

Friday, January 22 ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON Avenida Del Poniente, 200 Block (11:26 p.m.) A 24-year-old construction worker is being held on $1 million bail after being arrested in the incident.

WELFARE CHECK Cantilena, 0 Block (7:23 p.m.) A 20-year-old man reported his parents had taken away his car keys.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (10:29 a.m.) A transient man reportedly continues to take a motorized scooter.

PETTY THEFT Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (4:31 a.m.) Someone walked into the store, filled up a shopping cart full of unknown items and ran out.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Paseo De Cristobal, 300 Block (2:31 a.m.)

An elderly man was seen sitting around a fire on the beach and yelling to himself.

Thursday, January 21 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRUCMSTANCES Ola Vista, 2400 Block (11:37 p.m.)

Police were called to reports of a man knocking on doors trying to sell newspapers. The caller thought it was suspicious because it was so late. The man was described as in his 20s and left on foot.

COURT ORDER VIOLATION El Camino Real, 200 Block (10:20 p.m.) A caller said a man who he currently has an active restraining order against had been harassing him. A 27-year-old mortgage broker was arrested and eventually released.

FRAUD REPORT Avenida Santa Margarita, 100 Block (11:36 a.m.) The caller said his ex-girlfriend from three years ago tried to take a loan out against his house.

DISTURBANCE Calle Del Cerro, 1000 Block (9:57 a.m.) A transient man was dumpster diving and scaring young children.

Wednesday, January 20 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Vista Montana, 200 Block (5:34 p.m.) A woman had been yelling for two weeks in the apartment complex, but the caller couldn’t locate where she was.

CITIZEN ASSIST Buena Vista, 1200 Block (2:54 p.m.) A woman said she found two handprints on her window and would like to show a deputy.

Tuesday, January 19 PETTY THEFT REPORT Marquita, 100 Block (9 p.m.)

A man called to report his $400 stroller with house and car keys attached to it had been stolen. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Lew’s Views by Lew Avera

Discussing the Success of Our Young People

L

ast month I wrote about music being the “voice of the soul” and how it impacts and influences us all—from the very young to the elderly and across all ethnic and geographical elements worldwide. It is something we all have in common even though the music itself varies greatly.

In my continuing study of music, I have spent a lot of time with the baroque and classical periods going back to the 1600s and, in particular, reading and studying the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

LEW’S VIEWS Mozart is a fascinatBy Lew Avera ing and iconic individual and one of the most famous and productive composers of all time. He was born in 1756 and died in 1791 at only 35 years old. However, during his short life he composed hundreds of pieces of music in many styles: symphonic, choral, instrumental, opera, etc.

Also, Mozart was raised by his father, very much hands-on. In fact, Mozart started playing the harpsichord at age 3. He began playing short pieces at age 4 and composed his first music at age 5.

From then on he was a prolific composer

Letters to the Editor PROMISES BROKEN ON SHORT-TERM LODGING POLICY SCOTT BRUENER, San Clemente

In watching the last city council meeting, I feel cheated by those City Council members I voted for who promised “residents first” and “quality of living” in our neighborhoods.

The topic was vacation rentals and, quite frankly, several of them looked like amateurs.

Vacation rentals should not exist in single-family neighborhoods, pure and simple. They change the character and quality of our streets and neighborhoods with mini-hotels and businesses in the middle of a residential-only zone.

Councilman Chris Hamm, who stated on his campaign literature that he would protect our neighborhoods, has done a 180-degree turn, now wanting to grandfather these vacation rentals for five years.

San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

and performer for his remaining 30 years.

At age 16, he had a relationship with Aloysia Weber, which didn’t last and he later married her sister, Constanze. Together they had seven children in the nine years before his death.

My thoughts immediately jumped to our young people of today—how they have the innate and underlying talent to achieve just as Mozart did and how we as parents play a large role in their success. There is an additional dimension to this current journey that did not exist in Mozart’s time and is both a potential obstacle and facilitator of success for them—technology.

In this context, as a senior looking back over my own life, I have concluded the most satisfactory element of my life is the success of my children and now my grandchildren as they develop and come of age.

This is beyond all of the accomplishments of my professional life as a Marine, business executive and community volunteer. My four children achieved college educations at major universities and have pursued successful careers. And now, the three oldest of seven grandchildren have done the same.

I hasten to add two important qualifiers.

One, the influence in their lives was not mine alone but also that of a loving mother who played a major part in their lives; and

It is quite obvious that residents first and quality of life are just words to him.

PROPOSED SIGN ORDINANCE PUTS CHOKEHOLD ON SAN CLEMENTE BUSINESSES ROBERT BEAULIEU, San Clemente

With the ongoing discussion on the revision of the sign ordinance, one has to ask: Who is looking out for small businesses in San Clemente? Certainly not the Planning Commission, City Council or city staff.

Statistically speaking, small businesses have had the chips stacked against them from the get-go. The fatality rate of retail businesses within a five-year period is 59 percent. This statistic does not take into consideration any unforeseen changes in a city’s business codes and ordinances. I would hope the city hierarchy would stop and think of the unexpected consequences attached to the business signage changes under discussion.

Those of us who have been in San Clemente for a few decades might recall the early ’90s in the area known as the T-Zone.

There were 32 first-floor retail vacancies created by a sluggish economy. It took

two, a college education is not the only path to success. The path to success is the inherent intelligence of our young people, their motivation to succeed and our uncompromising and loving interest in supporting them to achieve their goals.

I know our young people have this ability.

The other day I met a young neighbor for the first time walking her 3-year-old son in a carriage. This young boy actually conversed with me using complete sentences and ideas, not with childlike banter but actual complete sentences within an actual conversation. My mind immediately jumped to Mozart and how he must have acted, but more importantly the talent and potential abilities of our young people of today and how they can succeed and our role in helping them achieve this success.

Lew Avera is a retired career officer, Lt. Col., U.S. Marine Corps. He has been a director of the Talega HOA since 2003 and served on the San Clemente Planning Commission from 2005 to 2013. 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.

several years to rebuild this area to a more viable and successful retail opportunity.

Ironically, since that ordinance was put into place the city has failed miserably in managing this ordinance.

The only time the ordinance is enforced is when someone complains about a specific sign. Otherwise, inspectors and city management look the other way. Case in point includes the Council’s approval last year of the now-defunct Montgomery Motorcycle sign, even though it was erected

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@sanclementetimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz

OPERATIONS

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller Jonathan Volzke

Art Director > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Finance Director > Mike Reed

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Melissa Calvano Debra Holm Tim Trent

(Cont. on page 9)

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Jan. 29 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso This week’s guest will be Saddleback Memorial Medical Center hospital administrator Tony Struthers. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Eric Heinz every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.

Page 8

San Clemente Times, Vol. 11, 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 tDispatch (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 2016. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 8) without a permit and was well above the allowable size. However, in their judgment, Council approved the sign because “it looked good.” Now, city management wants to create a more restrictive sign ordinance—eliminating all freeway-facing signs—in the wake of the opening of the Outlet Mall, the new cash cow for sales tax.

For a city that relies on real estate taxes and sales tax revenues to support proposed budgets, this could be a very expensive lesson. Incidentally, not one member of City Council or the Planning Commission own or operate a retail establishment. For that simple reason, I think neither Council nor the Planning Commission nor city staff are qualified to create an ordinance that so severely affects the retail community. You are not in business, so stay out of business.

SEPARATE SAN CLEMENTE SCHOOL DISTRICT SHOULD BE NEXT GOAL PAIGE FOREMAN, San Clemente, on behalf of San Clemente Partners Improving Education Responsibly

A new year conjures up thoughts of betterment, improvements and positive changes. Aside from making changes to better our own lives, many look for ways to help enhance the lives around us and the community we live in. I envision 2016 as

San Clemente Times January 21–27, 2016

the year that San Clemente comes together for our children and the educational future of our town.

I am a member of San Clemente Partners Improving Education Responsibly (SC PIER), a grassroots organization consisting of community volunteers passionate about improving the education experience and facilities in San Clemente. We are exploring the feasibility for San Clemente to become independent from Capistrano Unified School District and form its own district.

We believe this new district should provide a higher level of local accountability, transparency, educational standards, teacher and administration support, community representation and fiscal management.

People grow up here and come back to raise their families. Why wouldn’t people return? All it is lacking is a top-notch, locally run school district that is supported and encouraged by our #OneTownOneTeam spirit.

CUSD has approximately 50,000 students. If San Clemente were to become independent from CUSD , we would serve about 10,000 students. It is no surprise that smaller school districts perform better.

All but one of the top 10 school districts in California has more than 15,000 students.

In my opinion, CUSD is far too big and bulky to be successful.

In today’s political climate, it is popular to talk about how school districts focus on the students and make sure children are not left behind. However, if you look at the

facts, CUSD lacks the leadership and vision to put our students first. For example, In today’s political climate, it is popular to talk about how school districts focus on the students and make sure children are not left behind. However, if you look at the facts, CUSD lacks the leadership and vision to put our students first. For example, I find it disappointing and shocking to realize that only 53 percent of CUSD’s class of 2015 had completed “A-G” courses, the entrance requirements for California State and University of California systems.

College may not be a choice for every child, but it should at least be an option, and about 50 percent are being left without that option because their school district did not prepare them. Which 50 percent will your child fall into?

SC PIER has worked together for seven months researching the possibilities of San Clemente seceding from CUSD. Let’s put the rumors to rest. It is a process, but it does not have to take eight to 10 years.

We have been fortunate to meet with AMPS, the Malibu group that is becoming independent from Santa Monica Unified School District. Their process is close to completion after only three years. We have far fewer hurdles to jump and believe three years is doable.

For as long as I can remember, friends and teachers in town have commented on how great it would be if San Clemente had its own school district. Now is the perfect time. We are built out. We have a receptive

City Council and a new young population.

I want the best for San Clemente, just like you. I am proud of our small-town spirit and love when important causes bring us together. This is that next cause, and everyone should jump on board. Make this part of your 2016 commitment. Our children deserve better. Our community deserves better. We can do better. Join us. Go to our website to learn more, get involved and give us your endorsement at www.scpier.org.

Correction In the 10th Annual Best of San Clemente People’s Choice Ole Awards, published Jan. 22, the phone number for Casino San Clemente under Best Special Event/Wedding Venue was incorrect. The correct phone number is 949.369.6600.

In the same edition, under Best Medical Health Care Provider, the website URL for Hybrid MD Urgent Care was incorrect.

The correct URL is www.hybridmdoc.com.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail 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.

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘Anomalisa,’ Not Your Average Puppet Flick

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 28 RAMÓN NEGRÓN AT CASA ROMANTICA 7 p.m. Negrón was a member of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra for 16 years and is currently an adjunct faculty member of viola and chamber music at the University of San Diego. He is also music director and conductor of the newly formed Kensington Baroque Orchestra. The event is $20 for members and $25 general admission.

Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

THE KALAMA BROTHERS 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s.

555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

Friday | 29 AMBROSIA 8 p.m. Live music at The Coach House featuring Ambrosia, Detour 91 and Southland.

Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

PAINTING AND VINO Noon-3 p.m. Sip wine while participating in a step-by-step painting class taught by a professional artist. All supplies provided. $45. Register online at www.paintingandvino.com. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

Saturday | 30 BIG KAHUNA KONCERT FOR A CAUSE 7 p.m.-midnight. The event will feature live music by Common Sense and Missing Persons, DJ Fluffy of Venice, art displayed by Roy Gonzalez, raffles and a silent auction.

Tickets are $25 online or at the door. OC Tavern will donate 20 percent of all food and drink purchases to charities. OC Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

Sunday | 31 ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE 5:30 p.m-7 p.m. Climb onboard a Dana Wharf luxury catamaran for this 90-minute wine cruise around the Dana Point Harbor.

San Clemente Times January 28 - February3, 2016

EDITOR’S PICK Photo: Courtesy

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JAN. 30 AND 31: “HOW TO WATERCOLOR SUCCULENTS AND CACTI,” WITH BARBARA ROTH 10 a.m.-4 p.m. In this two-day workshop, people will learn simple drawing techniques to draw varieties of succulents. The class will teach how to simplify what details to add or subtract and all about shading drawings to give them depth. All techniques will be demonstrated, and the students will have time to practice and receive help. Cost is $185 per person. San Clemente Art Supply and Framing, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

WINTER AFTER SCHOOL CLUB 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Winter After School Club series runs on Tuesdays from Jan. 5 through Feb. 23. After School Club is for children ages 5 and older. A variety of activities are provided, including stories and crafts. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sc.

Tickets are $49. Every Friday and Sunday.

See more events online. Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 888.224.0603, www.danawharf.com.

MATT STEPHANS 4 p.m. Live music at Waterman’s Harbor, 34661 Golden Lantern Street, in the Dana Point Harbor, 949.764.3474, www.watermandp.com.

Wednesday | 03

Monday | 01 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Trips available every day of the week. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary depending on the vessel. Call for more information. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Tuesday | 02 TINY TOTS: PARENT & ME PROGRAMS AT OCEAN INSTITUTE 9 a.m.-10:15 a.m. The Ocean Institute hosts a series of programs for children ages 2 and 3 and their parents on Tuesdays through March 1. Toddlers will explore shapes, colors, textures and more with everyone’s favorite tide pool animal, the sea star. Each session includes an activity and an animal encounter. $30 per class.

Register online. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org/ parentchild-programs.

JOY OF LIVING BIBLE STUDY 9:15 a.m.-11 a.m. Women of all ages are invited to this interdenominational group that meets Wednesdays through June 1.

A start-up fee of $30 is requested. Free child care is provided. The study includes worship, discussion groups, inspirational talks and monthly luncheons. Talega Life Church, 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, 949.493.1980.

READ TO A DOG 3 p.m.-4 p.m. Children can practice their skills and build confidence reading aloud by sharing favorite tales with certified therapy dogs. No pre-registration required.

Dana Point Library, 33841 Niguel Road, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana.

UPCOMING: SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO ROTARY CAR SHOW 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The 13th annual San Juan Capistrano Car Show will feature more than 400 hot rods, muscle cars, classics, cruisers and vintage automobiles. Proceeds from the event benefit Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort and SJC charities. 25925 Camino Del Avion, 949.547.9081, www.sjcrotary.

Page 10

Photo: Paramount Pictures

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

M

y string of Oscar season movie reviews continues with Charlie Kaufman’s Anomalisa, one of the Best Animated Picture nominees. The cult screenwriter’s second film without directors Spike Jonze and Michel Gondry is completely animated through stop-motion puppetry. While the other nominees are the usual family blend of Pixar, Disney and Ghibli, Anomalisa has the distinction of being the first R-rated animated film to be nominated in the category.

Set over a 24-hour period in 2005 Cincinnati, Ohio, customer service expert Michael Stone (David Thewlis) is in town to give a lecture on his recently published book. While at his hotel, everyone around him appears to have the same face and voice. He continues to lose touch with reality until a young woman named Lisa (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who is in town for the lecture, instantly grabs his attention.

Anomalisa is co-directed by Kaufman and Duke Johnson. Despite the Kaufman being responsible for such movies as Adaptation and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, his collaboration with the stop-motion director is surprisingly his most linear and conventional. We can see possible inspiration and some similarities to Jonze’s own Her and Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation in Anomalisa, with the leads internally depressed in surreal settings. To some, the first half of the feature might be a little jarring, but the payoff by the end might be worth it, especially to Kaufman fans. And as a final warning, I should note that the R rating is appropriate for full-frontal puppet nudity, sex and adult language. SC

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 SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

North Beach Rising Meeting examines neighborhood’s plans Plans are also in the works to create a bike trail by the drainage channel next to esidents of the northern gateway Avenida Pico that would lead to east San to San Clemente have been makClemente, ending by San Clemente High ing progress in their neck of the School and Walmart. woods in the last few years—and they Other improvements include completseek to enhance the area even further. ing the undergrounding of utility lines During the 2016 State of North Beach, in the Los Molinos Business District for hosted by the North Beach Community safety and esthetic purposes.

Association on Jan. 21 at Casino San CleMany residents are awaiting the reopenmente, community members, city officials ing of the Ole Hanson Beach Club situated and other interested people discussed in the heart of North Beach. some components that need improve“Everybody is dying to get this done ments and some new planned projects. and we can’t wait to see what it looks like Tyler Johnson, an NBCA board member when it’s finally done,” Gregg said. and owner of a chiropractic office, said the The club is expected to open, optimistiassociation is hoping to get as much input cally, in June, Donchak said. as possible from North Beach and San Clemente residents through an online survey.

The survey for North Beach can be found at www.memberplanet.com/ s/nbca/survey.

Amber Gregg, associate planner for the city of San Clemente as well as the North Beach liaison, said public interest in North Beach has grown exponentially recently.

“In the last couple of years, there’s been a ton of projects and investment that’s been poured into North Beach,” Gregg Taylor Johnson, NBCA board member, speaks in front of the said, adding that Pico Park organization’s new logo that was unveiled during the State of North improvements are expected Beach presentation on Jan. 21 at Casino San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz to be completed within the next few months.

The improvements to the club are Tom Frank, city of San Clemente traffic expected to cost in excess of $5 million engineer, spoke about extending sideafter the City Council’s latest funding walks in the area where gaps exist. adjustment.

“Our first project is the missing sideNo additional information was provided walk extensions from 107 Boca De La on the state of the Miramar Theatre, the Playa,” Frank said. grand centerpiece of North Beach that reFrank also touched on the possibility mains dormant. The theater sits on private of bringing a trolley to the city, a project land, and the owners have not invested in the Mobility Task Force has spearheaded. refurbishments.

The trolley would be paid for with grant “We have had a lot of meetings at the money from OCTA so long as the city can city with potential interests with the prove enough riders use it. The city of Miramar,” Gregg said. “We’re very hopeful Dana Point launched its own grant-funded in the near future something will happen. trolley service last summer.

When we know something we will be sure San Clemente City Councilwoman Lori to communicate with the North Beach Donchak said the task force is close to Community Association.” unveiling plans for obtaining a trolley.

Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Ward said The route would include stops along El another priority of the area should be to Camino Real, at the Outlets at San Clemestablish it as a historic district because ente, Avenida Del Mar, the Pier Bowl and of the benefits the city and other entities North Beach. could provide, such as designation.

“I’m very confident that we’re going to More information about the NBCA can get the grant (for the trolley), but in order be found on the association’s Facebook to keep the grant we have to have 10 ridpage. SC ers per hour,” Donchak said.

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

R

San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

Page 12

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Four Kids and a Dog by Elizabeth Bottiaux

Dana Point Discoveries

I

t wasn’t a day that could be spent indoors. The air was clear and crisp and it felt as if adventure was waiting to unfold before us. The aquamarine sky and sparkling ocean beckoned us. While all the big kids were in school, my youngest and I took a mini field trip to one of our favorite local spots.

The Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center and Trail System are local gems.

There’s something for all ages inside the Nature Center. Kids can pop their heads up through a clear dome and gain the perspective of a small animal in a mini re-creation of the headlands area. We learned about watersheds by listening to recorded information through headphones and examining an expansive wooden watershed model.

My son got to spin the species wheel.

When the wheel stopped and pointed to an animal, he would eagerly locate the animal inside of the nature center. We dared to stick our hands into the mystery box and guess its contents. I braved the box first. I have to admit, I was a bit squeamish about reaching into a box involving unknown ingredients. I’ll give one hint: it doesn’t bite. As we marveled at the enormous hand-painted mural that captures the era of Richard Henry Dana, Jr. it transported us back in time.

Friendly and knowledgeable docent Tressa Lam provided a wealth of information. She explained how the prized Pacific pocket mouse is closely monitored by biologists within the confines of the conservation area. We got to speak with one of the biologists about the pocket mouse tracking system. Tracking tubes are used to measure the number of paw prints of these mini mice. The mice, once thought to be entirely extinct, are hibernating in these winter months, and will re-emerge

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

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: Very easy San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

March through October.

Tucked away in 29.4 acres of conservation area, the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area is home to many native plants and animal species. The coastal California gnatcatcher and the Pacific pocket mouse are on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Threatened and Endangered Species List. Both make their home in the conservation area. Coastal Sagebrush grows rampantly throughout the area. We were taught to rub the plant in our hands and then breathe in the fresh scent.

The mostly flat, 1-mile trail is ideal for young children. We borrowed a pair of binoculars and took them out on the trail to enhance the already majestic panoramic views. As we walked the easy sand trail, we were FOUR KIDS serenaded by birds and AND A DOG the distant crashing of

By Elizabeth Bottiaux waves. The ocean shimmered and shone under the warm golden sun. The views on this clear day were breathtaking. Both of us enjoyed pointing out animal tracks and mysterious holes that were presumably animals’ homes.

People we encountered on the trail seemed happy. Some even stopped for casual conversation. Quick greetings and friendly smiles were exchanged with passersby. It was as if we had an unspoken understanding that this place was a small slice of heaven. Visiting this place was a beautiful way to reconnect with nature, oneself and rediscover the simple pleasures in life.

Elizabeth Bottiaux is mom to four small humans, ages 5, 7, 8 and 10. She’s a San Clemente resident and has lived in Orange County for the past 16 years. She publishes a blog, www.fourkidsandadog.com, about family life in our tri-city area. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SCTimes 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 SCTimes or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Willie Nelson: Still Going Strong at 82

L

ast August, Willie Nelson was scheduled to perform at the Orange County Fair. My life partner Greta Cohn and I, and our Dana Point friends, Ron and Lee Cohan, had tickets for the concert at the Pacific Amphitheatre, an outdoor venue. The four of us realized it would probably be our last chance to see Willie, a country music legend; he turns 83 this April 29.

Most, not all, of the audience appeared to be ages 50 to 90. We were in our seats; the band’s instruments were in place on the stage. And then it started raining hard; the show was canceled.

Three months later, when the four of us heard Willie would be performing this Jan. 6 at the Grove in Anaheim, we purchased tickets.

On the night of the concert, it rained again, but the Grove is an indoor venue, so we knew the show would go on. I will admit, however, the possibility of a raincaused cancelation crossed my mind as we made the drive to Anaheim.

Frankly, my expectations about Willie performing were modest. I imagined that his family members, including his sons Micah and Lukas on guitars and “little sister” Bobbie, as Willie calls her, on piano, would be the primary performers, and that Willie would sing only a few songs.

When the lights dimmed, Willie led his band onto the stage. He was wearing a Tshirt with “Maui” printed on the front and his usual red bandana headband.

Willie picked up Trigger, the name he’s given to his ancient Martin N-20 classical guitar that he’s had for 47 years—the one with a gaping hole and faded autographs from famous people such as Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings on it. He began with one of his classics, “Whiskey River.” The four of us were surprised by how great Willie and his band sounded.

He was on stage nonstop for more than 90 minutes. He sang: “Georgia on My Mind,” “On the Road Again,” “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground,” “Crazy,” “Roll Me Up and Smoke Me When I Die,” “Good-Hearted Woman,” “Always on My Mind” and about 25 other songs, all of them familiar.

He was gracious and personable. Fans kept tossing cowboy hats onto the stage.

Willie would wear the hats for a couple of songs and then toss them to the crowd Frisbee-style. He also threw five headbands to the crowd.

Page 13

Tom Blake and Greta Cohn happy to have a second chance to see Willie Nelson perform. Photo: Courtesy

Another Orange County friend, Ken Stetter, and his girlfriend Peggy McGuire, were seated in the same aisle about 20 feet away, although I didn’t know that until a week later.

“I, too, went to see Willie Nelson, with Peggy,” Ken said. “We also had tickets this summer at the fair. I thought his ‘little sister’ Bobbie was a huge plus—really good musician. I had a great night, like you. Two thumbs up!”

“Little sister” Bobbie is 85 years old.

Greta and I didn’t know if we’d ever see Willie again. However, a week later we did—only this time it wasn’t in person. On Friday, Jan. 15, we watched on PBS TV station KCET, Willie receiving The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.

He had received the award on Nov. 18, 2015, in Washington, D.C. A multitude of entertainers performed his music as he and his wife sat in a booth above and to the side of the stage.

Johnny Cash’s daughter, Rosanne, performed “Pancho and Lefty,” and Alison Krauss of the group Union Station performed, “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground.” Paul Simon and Neil Young also sang. It was an incredible night of music.

After Willie received the award on stage, he strapped on Trigger and did a few songs with all of the guest performers joining him. With a career that spans six decades, his final song was, appropriately enough, “On the Road Again.”

Greta said, “Just because we are older doesn’t mean we stop doing what we love.

To Willie, 82 is just a number.”

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. His latest book can be found online at www.smashwords.com/books/view/574810.

See his website at www.findingloveafter60. com (Yes, after 60; time rolls on.) To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SCTimes 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 SCTimes or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC San Clemente

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Triton Report COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School winter sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Triton Hoops Rolls Past Stallions, Remains in First Place For a second consecutive game, the San Clemente boys basketball team put up 70 points in a key victory. After charging past preseason league favorite El Toro 70-57 on Jan. 15, the Tritons went wire-to-wire in a 70-49 South Coast League win over San Juan Hills on Jan. 21.

As of Jan. 27, the Tritons (15-5, 3-0 league) were tied with Aliso Niguel at the top of the league standings and San Clemente is now 10 games over the .500 mark.

Senior Cole Fotheringham helped lead the Tritons to the win over the Stallions by pouring in 16 points, grabbing 11 rebounds and recording five blocks. The effort earned Fotheringham his seventh double-double of the year.

Senior Gage Shelmidine chipped in 16 points to tie Fotheringham for the gamehigh, while Blake Birmingham and Jake Cameron each scored 10.

San Clemente was set to continue league play against Aliso Niguel (11-10, 3-0) on Jan. 27. Results were not available at press time.

With Win, Triton Boys Soccer Stays in the Hunt The San Clemente boys soccer team extracted some revenge from last year with a 2-0 shutout of league rival El Toro on Jan. 22. El Toro bested the Tritons twice last season en route to claiming the South Coast League title.

San Clemente benefitted from a goal in each half in the win over the Chargers.

Barrett Croft scored once as did Rodrigo Ramirez. Jonathan Payan and Michael Saba each recorded an assist and goalie Cameron Dickie recorded five saves.

The Tritons (7-9-4, 2-2) have had an up-and-down nature to their season and it has followed the team into league play.

San Clemente has yet to win consecutive games in league competition, but has wins over the Chargers and San Juan Hills through four games.

San Clemente will host first-place Capistrano Valley on Jan. 29.

San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

Titans Go Wire-to-Wire in Win Over SC Girls Basketball The Tesoro girls basketball team limited San Clemente to just 10 first-half points on Jan. 26 in a wire-to-wire 58-42 South Coast League victory.

The loss knocked the Tritons (8-13, 1-3) down to fourth-place in the league standings while the Titans (12-9, 3-1) vaulted into second place.

San Clemente senior Jessica PerryRomero scored 11 points and swiped seven steals to lead the Tritons. Junior Amy Harris scored eight points and pulled in three rebounds and sophomore Nicole Dutch poured in seven points, grabbed five rebounds and recorded four blocks.

San Clemente will travel to play firstplace Aliso Niguel on Jan. 28.

Girls Soccer Readies for Rematch With Wolverines

San Clemente senior Jalila Bahu corrals a pass during a South Coast League game against Dana Hills on Jan. 21.

Photo: KDahlgren Photography

The San Clemente and Aliso Niguel girls soccer teams will square off on Jan. 28 with first place in the South Coast League on the line.

The Tritons (9-2-7, 2-0-2) and Wolverines (14-1-1, 3-0-1) drew to a 1-1 tie in their first meeting of the season on Jan. 7. That first league match against Aliso Niguel marked the beginning of a four-match unbeaten streak for San Clemente. The Tritons went on to defeat Capistrano Valley and Mission Viejo before drawing 0-0 with Dana Hills on Jan. 21.

The Tritons have also moved up the CIF-SS Division 1 rankings since the last time they faced Aliso Niguel. San Clemente reached as high as No. 3 in the rankings but currently sit in the fourth spot.

The Wolverines have been entrenched in the division’s top spot for most of the season.

Harrington Commits to Boise State

San Clemente’s Maddie Diaz defends a Dana Hills player during a league contest on Jan. 21.

Photo: KDahlgren Photography

San Clemente senior offensive lineman Donté Harrington committed to play college football for Boise State University on Jan. 26, according to his Twitter account.

Harrington (6-3, 295) had a standout career as a Triton, and was named AllLeague, All-CIF and team lineman of the year twice. Harrington, a four-year starter, will be named a National Football Foundation award winner in March, according to head coach Jaime Ortiz.

On Jan. 25, Harrington posted a statement on his Twitter account announcing that he was committing to Army, but on Jan. 26, Harrington posted a different statement announcing his decision to decommit from Army and, instead, commit to Boise State.

Page 14

Scoreboard SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The San Clemente Tritons Water Polo Club 14U boys team won its division at the Santa Barbara Water Polo Tournament on Jan. 24. Photo: Courtesy

WATER POLO The San Clemente Tritons Water Polo Club 14U boys team and 12U boys team competed in the Santa Barbara Water Polo Tournament Jan. 23-24. The local club team’s 14U boys squad bested the field in its division to take first place.

The 14U boys team includes: Hayden Kahn, Tanner Powell, Spencer Snow, Roland Mantecon, Christian Hosea, Andrew Gansel, Everett Prussak, Dylan Gallegos, Luke Makshanoff and JJ Hoss.

The team is coached by Mitch Kahn. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

2411 S. El Camino Real, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

APPLIANCES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

APPLIANCE SERVICES & REPAIRS

ASAP Appliance Service

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San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

Page 17

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SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Skaters Raise Fun and Funds

GROM OF THE WEEK

GAVIN WILCHEK

W

Local teen’s third annual backyard Econ Invitational skate contest benefits Wounded Warriors

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

he San Clemente/Dana Point area has long been known for raising generation after generation of talented surfing and skateboarding athletes, each new up-and-coming group of kids looking to the last for inspiration. For one San Clemente teen, that means not only looking to local pro athletes as examples of athletic success but also for their contributions to the community.

Matt Economos, 14, of San Clemente, an avid competitor in both sports, has created a fun skate event for friends, combining it with his desire to make a difference.

Economos got the idea from local pro surfers the Gudauskas brothers. It came to him, he said, while participating in the Gudauskas’ annual Stoke-o-Rama surf contest which raises funds for scholarships that give local kids the opportunity to participate in the Junior Guards program.

“The Gudauskas brothers’ contest is always super fun, everyone has a great time and it raises money for a good cause,” Economos said. “When we got a ramp in our backyard I decided to do the same thing.”

That was three years ago and since then his hometown event, the Econ Invitational, has grown a bit each year.

Event participants are asked to make a $10 donation to enter and the funds raised are donated to the Wounded Warrior Foundation.

“With the Marines so close to our town at Camp Pendleton, I thought it would be a good organization to support,” Economos said. “They do so much for us, fight for our country and don’t really get much, so it’s important to give back, to help them out.

And it feels really good too.”

Support for Economos’ event has also grown over the years. This year a larger group of sponsors made it better than ever, he said.

“We had a lot of great local companies as sponsors this year: Ello Gum, Sun Bum sunscreens, Gnarly Clothing, Stance socks and Republik of California gift cards,” Economos said. “And my parents are super supportive. They handle all the food and let me do this in our back yard. It’s really good to have their help.”

Economos said his three siblings, two

San Clemente Times January 28 - February 3, 2016

Third annual Econ Invitational winners (L to R) 1. Gavin Wilchek, second place and Best Trick winner Luke Sunderland, 3. Lang Hennings, 4. Makai Haynes and Best Wipeout winner Maddox Bray line up for the trophy presentation. Photo: Jack McDaniel

Econ Invitational creator Matt Economos catches air during the third annual Wounded Warriors benefit skate contest he holds in his backyard. Photo: Jack McDaniel

Gavin Wilchek catches one of many big airs on his way to winning the Econ Invitational. Photo: Jack McDaniel

sisters and a brother who are also talented surfers and skaters, help out too.

“I want to say a big thank you to everyone who helped me out with it,” he said. “I also need to thank Andrea Swayne for making the awesome trophies, Jack McDaniel for taking photos and Señor (Dave Hennings, Shorecliffs Middle School surf coach and Spanish teacher) for announcing.”

Gavin Wilchek took top honors and the $100 Republik of California prize.

“This is by far my favorite skate contest,” Wilchek said in a post event interview.

“They have a bunch of prizes and I’m inspired by it, by Matt. I look up to him. It’s so fun and there’s no annoying people, no ego people here. We’re all friends, locals and no meanies.”

Wilchek said his winning strategy was simple.

“I just tried to be consistent, not fall and do the tricks I know I’m good at first and then go big at the end,” he said. “That’s why I tried the blunt on the on the extension. I didn’t land it; it was too big.”

Although he didn’t land his last big blunt, the spectators and competitors cheered wildly at the spectacular attempt.

Second place went to Luke Sunderland

who was also awarded the Best Trick Trophy. Lang Hennings came in third and Makai Haynes was fourth. The Best Wipeout Trophy went to Maddox Bray.

“Gavin always shows up and blows up,” Economos said. “Luke got Best Trick for his big blunt on the extension of the ramp and a backside boneless. Lang did some really sick airs and Makai just plain ripped. And Maddox definitely earned the Best Wipeout award. He fell off the ramp a couple times. It was pretty gnarly. It was super funny. It was awesome!”

This year Economos added a girls division for the first time.

“Last year the girls just came and skated but this year we had a division for them,” he said. “They totally went for it.”

In the girls division Sawyer Lindblad won, followed by runner-up Reese Dewey, Nicole Economos in third place and Alex Economos in fourth.

Economos will be making a $200 donation to the Wounded Warriors Foundation this year thanks to this year’s field of 20 skaters.

For a photo slideshow from the event, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. SC

Page 18

e spoke with 12-year-old Gavin Wilchek after his win at the third annual Econ Invitational skate contest on Jan. 23, to find out more about the talented San Clemente athlete. Gavin, a seventh-grader at Shorecliffs Middle School, is in his second year on the school surf team. Although skating came first, at the age of 4, he would like to start doing more surf contests, he said.

“I don’t compete as much as I used to in skating but I’ll skate in the SC Open,” he said. “I used to do the CASL (California Amateur Skateboard League) series and traveled a bunch of places. I went to Italy once for a Vans contest.”

Gavin also enjoys school and works hard to maintain good grades. Right now there’s only one B separating him from his straight-A goal. Learning is definitely a priority, but having such good friends as classmates and attending a school that’s so close to the beach are the two things he likes best about it.

“I will definitely surf competitively through high school,” he said. “But I don’t think I’ll be a pro in either sport. I surf and skate because I love it.”

Gavin’s favorite maneuver in both sports is catching air.

“I love boosting up in the air,” he said. “I got good airs in surfing from skateboarding.”

Gavin hasn’t set his mind on what he wants to be when he grows up but he has some ideas of a general direction he would like to explore.

“I really enjoy working with my hands, like fixing my surfboards, all my dings and cuts,” he said. “I like building too. I helped build my skate ramp and take it apart when the wood got wet. Something working with my hands is probably what I’ll do.”

Whatever Gavin’s future holds, in sports, school or career, Gavin said he knows his family will be supportive along the way.

“I want to thank my mom for all she’s done for me, especially since she has four kids, and my dad for always being there and pushing me and helping me succeed,” Gavin said. “I definitely love my family and all my siblings. Obviously siblings can be annoying sometimes but they’re also my best friends.”

—Andrea Swayne

Galvin Wilchek. Photo: Andrea Swayne

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