City Council Approves District Ballot Measure with Contingencies
THE LATEST: Begrudgingly, on Tuesday the City Council approved the ballot measure to separate San Clemente into five voting districts, which will appear on the November 2018 ballot, but only if it is validated by a court.
During the Tuesday meeting, City Attorney Scott Smith brought forth some issues of legality with the ballot measure, mainly in addressing what he said was a lack of analysis on minority or disenfranchised majority or minority populations and a few other legal writings.
The ballot measure was brought to the city earlier this year, and although it qualified for the 2016 ballot, Council opted to order a 30-day study on the measure on Aug. 2, which effectively delayed it until 2018 because it had to be approved for the ballot by Aug. 12.
Brad Malamud, who is now the acting champion of the measure, has continuously argued that the city should have put the measure on this year’s ballot. During the meeting, Greg Larson
of Management Planners presented a slideshow from the National Demographics Corporation with statistics from other cities. The report showed that a majority of cities that have switched from at-large elections to districts will have their first election this year.
The cost to set up district elections for cities that changed to district elections was reported to be between $10,000 and $75,000. One city had a cost of $250,000, Larson said. The report also stated that this could be a potential cost-saver for the city. Some of the lawsuits to districted cities cost upwards of $80,000, but San Clemente has not been sued for California Voter Rights Act violations.
The report also stated that most of the elections are happening now, as the California Voter Rights Act was enacted 15 years ago and people who want districts are now taking their opportunity to enforce it themselves. Some cases have resulted in lawsuits that pertain to minority groups that are disenfranchised in certain pockets of municipalities, but the report made it apparent that in San Clemente, there isn’t a minority group that makes up a significant portion to warrant such a lawsuit.
Additional workloads for city staff as well as other factors could play into districting, such as city budget and services provided to the different areas.
Mayor Bob Baker and Councilman Tim Brown said they want to see it on the ballot because they think the residents of San Clemente will vote it down.
Malamud has contested that the legal analysis provided by Best, Best & Krieger, the law firm of the City Attorney, has been
lopsided and unfairly assessed. An attorney himself, Malamud has challenged the city’s interpretation of the ballot measure.
WHAT’S NEXT: A judge will have to make the determination as to whether the ballot is valid and conforms to state election laws. A full copy of the report can be found on the city of San Clemente website, www. san-clemente.org, under “Government,” then “Agendas” under the Aug. 30 Council Meeting. —Eric Heinz
Lawyer Claims He’s Owed $700,000 from BPIF
THE LATEST: After it was determined in court that the city would have to refund the more than $10 million the Beach Parking Impact Fund had accrued over more than 25 years, the court ruled that $2.6 million would be paid to the attorneys who sued the city. But one of the attorneys, Paul Rosenfield, claims he’s owed about $700,000 from the city in addition to the $2.6 million. During a closed-session portion of a meeting Tuesday, the city rejected his claim.
WHAT’S NEXT: While the city reviews its options on the matter, city officials said this will delay the reimbursements of the BPIF, as they won’t know what the remaining total from the fund will be until the matter is settled. —EH
Camino Del Rio-La Pata Extension Project Set to Begin
THE LATEST: After the gap connection project was completed, officials with Orange County Public Works announced the extension to Camino Del Rio will begin. The project is planned to connect the new thoroughfare to Del Rio.
Improvements to the street are expected to also accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists by constructing streetlights, bike lanes and sidewalks. Immediate activities will include fencing, clearing and grubbing and earthwork. Completion of the Camino Del Rio Extension phase is anticipated to be in April 2017.
“Construction updates about the Camino Del Rio Extension with expected activities and other information will be posted on the project web site and distributed to nearby and interested residents as the project progresses,” an OCPW press release stated.
OCPW is also widening about 1.4 miles of the existing La Pata Avenue with an additional lane in each direction between Ortega Highway and Stallion Ridge (formerly Vista Montana).
WHAT’S NEXT: The city of San Clemente is looking to begin construction on Del Rio as well. Roundabouts and the restriping of the street, intended to alleviate traffic congestion and safety issues, will begin soon. The project is expected to be completed in April.
FIND OUT MORE: For additional project information, visit the project web site at www.lapata.ocpublicworks.com, call the project hotline at 1.844.452.7282. or visit the OC Public Works Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ocpublicworks. —Staff
Rep. Issa to Host Sober Living Forum Thursday
THE LATEST: In a press release, California U.S. Rep. Darrell Issa announced on Monday that he will host a public forum and panel discussion on the issue of sober living homes. The discussion is to address possible reform of regulation for sober living homes as well as hear concerns from the community.
“Right now in Congress, I’m working on draft federal legislation to set a framework to allow localities to reform sober living homes so that they work better for our communities, those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, and everyone involved,” Issa said in a press release. Issa is currently campaigning for reelection to his Congressional seat against Doug Applegate. Turn to page 10 for more coverage.
WHAT’S NEXT: The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Thursday at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville. —Staff
Barks & Brews Raises More Than $6,000 for Pet Project Foundation
THE LATEST: About 800 people with their dogs celebrated National Dog Day on Aug. 26 during the Barks & Brews at the Outlets at San Clemente, which raised more than $6,000 for the Pet Project Foundation.
WHAT’S NEXT: All proceeds from the Barks & Brews went to the Pet Project Foundation, which helps support local San Clemente/Dana Point shelter. For more information about the foundation, visit www.petprojectfoundation.org. —Staff
Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?
• • • Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
Kristen and Matt Sheehy smile after their dog Louis Lane won a costume contest during the Outlets at San Clemente’s Barks & Brews event on National Dog Day, Aug. 26. The event raised more than $6,000 for the Pet Project Foundation. Photo: Outlets at San Clemente
NEWS BITES
HEINZ
Front Yard Garden Contest
The San Clemente Garden Club is seeking nominations for its annual Front Yard Garden Contest. Homes or business in San Clemente can enter to win. Nominate your neighbor’s garden, one you admire or your own. Judges will drive by and evaluate their curb appeal.
Contest winners will be announced at the Garden Club Fall Plant Sale on Oct. 8.
Nominations will be accepted until Sept. 22. When submitting a nomination, please include the street address, resident’s name (if known) and a brief description of the yard and noteworthy features of the garden. Send submissions to Lynn Wolf, email wolfpak55@cox.net or home phone message at 949.496.6490.
Carnival Colossal and Expo Ticket Information
Tickets will be available at the following locations:
City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio. Lori Ojeda: 949.361.8200
City Hall & Community Center on Dark Fridays: Sept. 9 and 23 Community Center, Parks & Recreation, 100 North Calle Seville. Lynda Pulley: 949.361.8264
Friends of San Clemente Foundation, 910 Calle Negocio, Suite 101. Mary Scobas: 949.276.8866
San Clemente Aquatic Center, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa. Jill Eslick: 949.429.8797
Boys & Girls Club, 1304 Calle Valle. Veronica Vega: 949.492.0376
SC Chamber of Commerce, 1231 Puerta
SC Sheriff’s Blotter
COMPILED BY STAFF
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, August 29
DISTURBANCE Avenida Estacion, 1800 Block (1:23 p.m.) Police were called to respond to a man who slapped the caller’s rear end.
ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Avenida Palizada, 100 Block (11:44 a.m.) An assist outside agency was requested by the San Francisco Police Department for a stolen 2007 Jeep.
WELFARE CHECK Corte Sagrada, 0 Block (12:49 a.m.) The caller who possibly has
Del Sol, Suite No. 200. Arlen Flores: 949.492.1131
Discounted pre-sale carnival tickets offer a savings of more than 60 percent off the regular ticket price and will be on sale until Oct. 5. Full-priced tickets will be available for purchase during the carnival. The cost for pre-sale tickets is $10 for eight rides—one ticket/one ride for an adult or child. The tickets can be used on any of the featured mechanical rides, which normally cost as much as $3.75 to $5. Only cash or checks made payable to Friends of San Clemente Foundation will be accepted. Include driver’s license and phone numbers on all checks.
Carnival runs Oct. 6-9.
Cox Teams Up with Second Harvest
Employee volunteers from Cox Communications distributed more than 3,000 pounds of fresh produce and “staple food” items recently at the company’s first Mobile Pantry event with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County, according to a press release from Cox. More than 200 people were served at the food distribution at Saddleback Church Peace Center in San Clemente.
“The 3,000 pounds of food equates to approximately 2,500 meals for underserved families,” the release stated.
Donate Gently Used Evening Gowns to Marines
The Marine Corps Birthday Ball commemorates the creation of the Marine Corps on Nov. 10, 1775. Every year around the world, Marines celebrate this day with a traditional cake cutting ceremony and formal ball.
dementia said she brought children to the residence for “activities.”
Sunday, August 28
BURGLARY REPORT Avenida Ramona, 100 Block (9:21 p.m.) A man said he saw someone take dishes out of the residence sometime that afternoon on a surveillance camera.
A caller said they smelled something “chemical,” possibly meth.
DISTURBANCE Calle Del Cerro, 1000 Block (11:44 a.m.) The caller said their daughter was throwing items around the house due to them putting the condo up for sale.
TRAFFIC ACCIDENT-UNKNOWN INJURIES
Camino Vera Cruz/Montana Del Sol (4:12 a.m.) A yellow MINI Cooper went off road and ran over landscaping and signs for development. The vehicle was disabled and
“Unfortunately, the cost of an evening gown is beyond the financial reach of many military spouses,” stated a press release from Carla Hogan of San Clemente Marine Corps Support Group.
The gently used gowns can be donated at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, before Sept. 17. They will be chosen by the women at the annual Ball Gown Giveaway at Camp Pendleton. For more information, contact Carla Hogan at 949.357.5555 or scsupportsusmc@ hotmail.com.
Assistance League to Host Annual Fundraiser
The Assistance League of Capistrano Valley (ALCV) joined with seven other chapters of the National Assistance League and held a Chapters for Children “Back to School” event at Camp Pendleton Aug. 13-14. The seven chapters worked to provide almost 700 children with new clothing and supplies, which included a jacket, two tops or shirts, two pairs of pants, socks, underwear, a $30 voucher for shoes and a bag of toiletries.
In order to fund these events, ALCV runs the Bargain Box Thrift Shop on 526 N. El Camino Real in San Clemente and holds one major fundraiser per year. This year the chapter is holding a benefit luncheon. Tickets are now on sale for “Fall in for Kids,” taking place on Saturday, Sept. 24 in Laguna Niguel. Tickets can be purchased on the chapter’s website www. capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org. For more information, email alcvcommuncations@gmail.com or call 949.291.8408.
Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
the driver was outside the vehicle.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Via Divertirse, 0 Block (1:29 a.m.) Male juveniles were ringing the doorbell constantly, while wearing ski masks.
Saturday, August 27
DISTURBANCE Avenida Fabricante, 200 Block (5:38 p.m.) A person was reportedly kicking doors and banging on windows.
DISTURBANCE Via Pico Plaza, 100 Block (5:26 p.m.) A man was reportedly placing a woman in a chokehold.
WELFARE CHECK Avenida Pico, 900 Block (4:10 p.m.) A group of people appeared to be as if they were on drugs, as the caller said they were having trouble walking and standing up.
DISTURBANCE Calle Cortez, 200 Block (8:17 a.m.) A woman said her ex-boyfriend was on the property, refusing to leave.
Community Meetings
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
San Clemente Farmers Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar.
First Sunday Book Sale
9 a.m. San Clemente Friends of the Library has received a donation of X-Box games for sale as well as a collection of newly donated children’s books and more. San Clemente Library. 242 Avenida Del Mar. 949.492.3493.
The Village Art Faire
9 a.m. Held every first Sunday of the month. More than 60 artists and vendors display their work. Avenida Del Mar. 949.218.5378. www.villagesanclemente.org.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
San Clemente Woman’s Club Meeting
10 a.m. San Clemente Woman’s Club will meet the first Tuesday of the month at Adele’s at The San Clemente Inn. All are welcome to attend. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente. 949.388.3734. www.sanclementewomansclub.com.
City Council Meeting
6 p.m. The City Council will host its regularly scheduled meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio. City Hall. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.
BILY Meeting
7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
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.
Planning Commission Meeting
6 a.m. The Planning Commission will host its regularly scheduled meeting. City Hall. 100 Avenida Presidio. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.
www.sanclementetimes.com
Good Neighbors
Addiction recovery providers fighting back against ‘NIMBY’
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For people trying to live in a sober environment due to struggles with alcohol and drug addiction, San Clemente can seem like an unwelcoming city.
A vocal, organized movement of people who speak at City Council meetings, protests and events are trying to eradicate sober living homes from the city.
Of these providers, Sovereign Health, a sober living provider that is based out of San Clemente, has claimed it is being targeted because it is one of the larger companies that provides services.
Jamie Deans, senior director of communications for Sovereign Health, said the company has launched a five-part public relations series addressing NIMBY-ism, or “Not In My Back Yard” policies.
“In most cases the neighbors don’t say much, but there are pockets where (opposition) has been activated,” Deans said. “Whenever we have an issue with neighbors, we try to address it as soon as we can. We go to the city and try to settle the issue.”
NIMBY basically is the attitude of someone not allowing an entity to exist because they don’t like it, but the concerns range from safety to economic.
“NIMBY is an issue that’s happening all over the country,” Deans said. “It’s not just in Southern California. It’s a somewhat complicated issue that is clear to us that most municipalities don’t have a clue what they’re dealing with.”
Deans said there’s a common misconception regarding which facilities need to
Pier Review
Local nonprofit looks to raise funds for SC Pier maintenance
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
As state funding once available for San Clemente Pier maintenance has been dissolved, a group of residents is looking to fill the funding gap.
On Aug. 22, people lined the sides of the Pier and held their phones up as a symbol of lighting the future for the Pier. Casa Romantica patrons gave the signal to light the Pier as a drone photographed the event from above.
According to city officials, the mainte-
be licensed and which ones don’t, and the information is not always available.
The city of San Clemente sued Sovereign Health when a moratorium was enacted last year, and Sovereign countersued in federal court.
Sovereign Health operates a few homes in San Clemente in which Deans said there is always a staff member at the treatment and care homes. No licensure is required to run a sober living home, due to provisions in the Americans with Disabilities Act that classifies recovering addicts as a protected class, but there are requirements for licensure to provide certain services.
Under Sovereign, staff members must go through internal training and cannot have been in treatment themselves for more than a year or so, but they do not need a specific degree.
Sovereign Health treats mental health and other ailments in addition to its alcohol and drug recovery programs.
“When these cases have gone to court, almost without exception, they’ve been ruled in favor of the sober living provider
nance for the Pier averages $450,000 a year, but has ranged from $30,000 to $2.4 million in recent years. Major projects included maintenance on pilings and plank replacement, and some of the more minor projects included painting and cleaning up bait benches.
Jim Nielsen, who has been involved
because they’re protected,” Deans said. Sovereign Health conducts contraband checks and makes efforts to detect any drugs that have been snuck into the home, which Deans said rarely get by inspections.
Deans said he is hoping cities will adopt a “good neighbor” policy with Sovereign in order to address some of the issues residents have brought forth.
As early as Aug. 11, Sovereign has claimed neighbors in the 2900 block of Via San Gorgonio have broken into the home and threatened employees of the treatment provider. On Aug. 17, a gathering of residents protested Sovereign Health operations in the home, and on Aug. 19, the treatment provider said residents once again broke into the home.
“What these neighbors didn’t know, because they never bothered to ask, is that Sovereign Health has always planned to give this community exactly what it wants: a licensed facility in full compliance with California state regulations,” Sovereign stated in a press release. “The license for the home is currently being processed by the Department of Health Care Services
with the organization, said these improvements will be facilitated by Pier Pride, a nonprofit organization that is trying to raise $1 million to fund an endowment for the Pier.
“The first goal we set is to do a proper painting with marine paints, but basically it’s about an all-around beautification,” Nielsen said. “We’d like to have $50,000 to draw from every year as needed.”
Councilwoman Lori Donchak was one of the founding members of the group along with Julia Darden and Nielsen. The organization started operations in December.
“The Pier is important on so many levels; it’s a historic icon and a place where we go for recreation, it’s visitor-serving and energizes the businesses that are at the end of the Pier,” Donchak said. “What an endowment allows us to do is to protect
(DHCS). No patients will reside in the home until all the licensure has been completed.”
Residents around the city of San Clemente have been actively protesting sober living homes for years now. The concerns run from safety of children who live within a limited distance from the homes as well as the effect of sober living homes on their property values.
The way in which Sovereign gauges its performance of a sober living home is the performance of its home managers.
Although the law seems to be on the side of the treatment facilities, there are still people who leave voluntarily or are kicked out due to violations. Deans said none of Sovereign’s clients are required to stay.
This, opponents argue, has created a contingency of people who are on the streets or can’t get back home. As a national organization, Sovereign has patients from all over the country as well as locals, Deans said.
“We can help them get to John Wayne Airport or the bus stop or help them get to wherever they need to go, but if we get there and they say ‘no,’ that’s their decision,” Deans said. “It’s not that we don’t have compassion or understanding.”
Another sober living provider, Sober Network Properties, in currently in litigation with San Clemente resident David Hurwitz, who sued the provider, claiming they’ve disrupted his neighborhood. SNP filed a countersuit against Hurwitz in June, and officials stated they intend to sell the home because of the animosity it has received.
“This sale has nothing to do with the lawsuit against us,” SNP stated in a release. “We have other properties in San Clemente, and they too are the subjects of our own countersuit against the city and Mr. Hurwitz. Our countersuit continues regardless of the fact that we are selling the property on Lampara, and we have no plans to vacate our other San Clemente properties.”
SNP is also in litigation with the city. SC
the Pier against extreme conditions.”
Darden said the main idea is to give people a “positive experience” when they visit the Pier by keeping it clean.
City Manager James Makshanoff said the dissolution of the state funds has made it harder to find ways to pay for the Pier maintenance.
“We’re thankful for groups like Pier Pride for coming out to help with the costs,” Makshanoff said. “The pie of money is (only) so big. So you have to take it from other places and make due.”
Makshanoff said the ballot measure to raise transient occupancy tax from 10 to 13 percent this election could help with that funding.
The Pier was built in 1928 and has gone through many phases of revitalization. Two storms in the 1980s rocked the structure, but it was eventually restored. SC
San Clemente High School students lined the San Clemente Pier on Aug. 22 to show support for Pier Pride, a nonprofit that raises funds for the structure’s maintenance. Photo: Eric Heinz
Jamie Deans, senior director of communications at Sovereign Health, said he would welcome a “good neighbor” policy between the health care provider and the city. Photo: Eric Heinz
A Special Night of Remembrance
Community gathers to stop the stigma of addiction
BY SHELLEY MURPHY, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The second annual Night of Remembrance sent a clear message: In the battle against drug and alcohol addiction, San Clemente community members are coming together with weapons of compassion and perseverance to lead the fight.
On Sunday, Aug. 28, families who have lost loved ones to drug overdose and suicide deaths stood in support of each other, people struggling with addiction and local residents to share stories of strength and sing songs of support celebrating life and sobriety.
The evening shined a spotlight on the importance of raising awareness and erasing the stigma of addiction treatment so individuals in crisis are not afraid to seek help.
The event, organized by Jodi Barber and hosted by the Community Outreach Alliance (COA), drew a crowd of more than 200 people. In 2010, Barber lost her son Jarrod to a prescription-drug overdose. Instead of suffering in silence, she began a crusade to save other families from facing similar pain and anguish. Barber produced the in-depth documentary Overtaken, an emotional film documenting widespread high school
student drug abuse in Orange County. The movie is distributed worldwide and used by schools across the country for classroom education.
COA is a nonprofit, which aims to tackle drug abuse and addiction through educating and supporting people suffering from alcohol and substance abuse by providing activities, encouragement and a healthy lifestyle.
The Night of Remembrance featured three keynote speakers: Tanya Brown, Frank Shankwitz and David Stanley. Each of them delivered personal and inspirational messages.
Brown shared her battle with deep depression that eventually led to her learning the tools to heal her pain and share her journey of recovery to help others.
“It’s a sad night, but we are rejoicing in life and sharing our stories to shine a light and be a voice,” Brown said.
She related a conversation with her pastor after the passing of her sister, Nicole, in 1994. Grieving, she sought his counsel and repeatedly asked him, “Why Nicole?” to which he replied, “‘Why not Nicole?’” Brown said, “I encourage each and everyone one of you when you start to go into ‘Why me?’ to instead go into ‘Why
not me?’ and think how can I turn my sad story around; listen to the conversation you have with yourself.”
Frank Shankwitz spoke of his extensive career in law enforcement and the inspiration leading him to found the Make-AWish Foundation. Shankwitz has since turned his energy and effort to focus on bringing awareness to prescription drug overdose and working to eradicate the epidemic.
David Stanley told his story, starting at age 4, when he became Elvis Presley’s step-brother and took up residence at
Graceland. Stanley travels the globe inspiring people with his struggles and triumphs over addiction.
“Each day in the United States, 78 people die (from an opioid overdose),” Stanley said. “We all have a voice and a message; we need to break the veil of secrecy and stop the stigma and speak out.”
Stanley’s statistic is supported by local law enforcement reports. According to a study released by the Orange County Sheriff’s Coroner Division, the number of drug and alcohol overdose deaths in the county increased by 51 percent between 2000 and 2012, making the past decade the deadliest.
The report also found cities along the coastal regions of Orange County had higher rates of drug- and alcohol-related hospitalizations and death than other cities.
The second annual Night of Remembrance included sorrow but focused on hope. The evening delivered a positive and optimistic message: removing the social stigma of addiction and encouraging people to seek treatment will save countless lives.
Barber continues to work tirelessly to stem the rising tide of addiction and deliver her words of action and encouragement.
“We can’t keep silent. We’re not going to stop until this epidemic stops,” Barber said. “We must come together as a whole; it takes a village to bring about change. Together we can make a difference.” SC
Cheryl Waller Shean holds a photo in honor of a young person who passed away. Photo: Shelley Murphy
Meet the Congressional Candidates
Issa, Applegate discuss South Orange County’s big role in close Congressional race
BY MATT CORTINA, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
If polling and primary results are reliable indicators, the race for the U.S. Representative for California’s 49th Congressional District is the tightest it’s been in over 15 years.
The 49th spans from South Orange County to North San Diego County, including Camp Pendleton, Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano.
Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Vista) has served as the district’s representative since 2000*, winning eight elections—all but one by more than 20 percent.
This year brings a new challenger in Doug Applegate, a retired Marine colonel and lawyer, who has lived in San Clemente since 1981. The two were separated by just over 5 percent in California’s primary voting. Some recent polls have the race closer than that margin.
San Clemente Times sat down with the candidates for over an hour each at our office to discuss federal issues, local concerns and the race itself. In our print edition, we’ve included our discussions about several key issues, but our conversations included points on immigration, water security, the military, marijuana legalization, gun control, SONGS and more. For the full transcripts of our conversations with Congressman Issa and Mr. Applegate, visit www.sanclementetimes.com.
*The district was labeled the 48th in the 2000 election.
ON THE CONGRESSIONAL RACE:
SC Times asked Congressman Issa if changing demographics in Orange County might affect voting in the district, and how, after serving the district for nearly two decades, he might “compromise with (his) constituents when maybe (he has) something they’re not expecting from (him).”
“I didn’t plan on being here 16 years,” Issa said, “but 9/11 happened and something else happened, and instead of going back to my business career, I’ve stayed with doing what I’m doing. Now I’m very involved in some things that I want to get done, and I’m asking the district to consider are they better off with somebody with my experience and the things that I
Darrell Issa (R)
A former member of the U.S. Army and businessman, Issa has served numerous roles in his 16 years in Congress, currently serving on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Issa lays claim to having played integral parts in several matters of national and state importance. He touts voting against “bailing out” banks via the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) in 2008, and in 2009, initiated a later-approved bipartisan commission to investigate the “root causes of the financial crises.”
In 2012, Issa launched an investigation into the 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi. As member and chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, Issa led investigations involving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, ACORN and the “politicization of science at the Environmental Protection Agency.”
The richest member of Congress, according to filing data compiled by the Center for Responsive Politics, Issa earned much of his wealth as CEO and founder of Directed Electronics, which notably, manufactured anti-theft devices for automobiles. Issa’s current total assets, according to 2015 filings, ranges from $299 million to $768 million.
plan to accomplish, and I’m hoping they say, ‘Yes.’
“Sixteen years ago all I had to do was sharpen up my voting card and show up. Today, I’m in a position to get patent reform, to get immigration reform, I’m in the right committees and senior enough,” he said.
SC Times asked Applegate why he wanted to run for Congress, his first quest for elected office.
“I was concerned about the leadership in Congress because every time I hear somebody talking about the use of military force or combat operations, I’m hearing somebody talk that’s never really seen the trials and realities and the fog of war,” Applegate said, adding that according to his calculations, only about 5 percent of Congress members have “served in a combat zone ever in their lives.”
Applegate said he believes “South Orange County might decide the Congressional race.” Acknowledging the area’s historic political bent to the right, Applegate says he tells questioning Republicans, “You’re going to be able to get through
Doug Applegate (D)
Colonel Doug Applegate served 32 years in the Marine Corps and has lived in San Clemente since 1981. He is also a civil trial attorney. Applegate claims career accolades of having “advised Marine commanders, defended and prosecuted war crimes, and conducted complex civil and criminal trials.”
This is Applegate’s first foray into running for elected office, however, he says he hopes his experience in the military and in the law profession will be enough to convince voters of his readiness.
“As far as my experience level, procedural rules I’ll have to get up to speed on, but that isn’t the first I’ve had to do that because I’m a member of the bar in five states, so I’m used to getting used to new rules,” Applegate said. “But I don’t have any learning curve concerning the military, foreign affairs, particularly in certain parts of the world, or the criminal justice system, the civil justice system or the penal system.”
Applegate’s platform includes reform of mandatory sentencing laws, a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and increased regulation of the financial sector. He would also call for a second look at the Trans-Pacific Partnership and retooling Veterans’ Affairs.
my office door if I’m elected to Congress a lot easier than you’ve ever been able to talk to Congressman Issa. And then I can usually say, ‘Have you ever been inside his office?’ I haven’t met too many people who have. Actually, I’ve met no one who’s been in there.”
On Applegate, Issa says he knows “not much” about the Democrat, and had only met him once.
ON SOBER LIVING HOMES
With the proliferation of sober living facilities—homes, often in residential areas, that serve as alcohol and drug abuse recovery centers—local municipalities are hamstrung to enact regulations on them, as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people in recovery.
Issa said the first step of any solution would be to look objectively at sober living facilities.
“Well I think what we do is we maintain (that) you can’t discriminate based on somebody being handicapped, including being a recovering alcoholic or recovering drug abuser, but we recognize that cities
should have the ability to take care of health and sanitation,” Issa said.
Both Issa and Applegate said there could be a solution in amending the ADA to include reasonable regulations on sober living homes.
“You have to figure out something that still honors the intent (of the ADA), because I believe in the ADA, there’s nothing in the ADA that I find problematic, but it’s in its application in residential neighborhoods like (in South Orange County), it’s a problem,” Applegate said.
ON THE ENVIRONMENT
As climate change is poised to affect South Orange County in myriad ways from rising sea levels to wildfires to water shortages, the candidates were asked various questions about the environment and the impact of human activity on a rapidly warming planet.
“I come from the party that believes in science, so this is kind of easy for me,” Applegate said, adding that the U.S. Navy and Marines have been pushing Congress for 10 years to invest in renewable energy as a matter of military expediency.
Applegate said the U.S. “should have a Manhattan-type project with renewable fuels.
“And guess what? This part of Southern California has all these natural synergies in research for so many things,” Applegate continued. “It’s stupid that our Congressmen haven’t been pounding the table on that. … If you think this is some grand liberal conspiracy or whatever, it’s not. This is a real issue.
“I don’t know why a guy that had an electronics firm and likes to portray himself as at the cutting edge of technology, why he can’t see science in other areas,” Applegate said of Issa.
Issa said he “reject(s) anyone wanting to say I’m not an environmentalist.”
Issa received a zero percent rating from the League of Conservation Voters last year, a nonprofit that grades members of Congress based on how they vote on what they classify as bills that concern the environment.
“If you look at zeroes, you look at zeroes by people who start off figuring out what they’re going to score and they score it,” Issa said of the rating.
Issa said he supports “more research,” “intelligent ways to reduce our carbon footprint,” and nuclear energy “because it has zero emissions and it can be an interim path.
“Do we try to have an intelligent pathway, regardless of what the timeline is— and there is disagreement on the timeline within the science community?” Issa said. “Do we kind of find a way to get as quick as possible to sustainable ecology, including weaning ourself off burning things that come from the ground? Absolutely.”
As for a concrete timeline to implementing such initiatives, Issa said, “There’s nothing concrete in environmental scientists who have missed their timelines for things they said were going to happen.”
SOAPBOX SC
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
GUEST OPINION: City Council Corner by Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Ward
Toll Road Projects to be Discussed Early Next Month
At the start of my term in late 2014, we were bracing for the pending demolition of the bridge at Pico. Since the beginning, I would say we have all been troopers during this trying time of construction. I give a special and appreciative shout-out to all the residents who live along the freeway who have lived with dust, beeping sounds, pile-driving noises and sometimes nighttime construction.
from San Juan Creek Road to Pico, creating five lanes on both sides.
By Kathy Ward
The western side of the bridge has been demolished and is now rebuilt. In the very near future, northbound traffic will be moved to the west side, and then the east side of the bridge will be demolished. Here we go again. The good news is we are closer to the end than the beginning.
The goal of this Orange County Transportation Authority project is to improve the weekend traffic jams and rush-hour traffic. The project is said to alleviate the backups by extending the carpool lane
Letters to the Editor
FAMILY, SC RESIDENTS PITCH IN FOR MARINES
CAROL TIBERI, San Clemente
Over 12 years, Pat Riegler, with her husband, Ron’s, help, adopted the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Pendleton. She started giving baby showers for pregnant Marine wives once a year, taking them to lunch a couple of times a year and buying presents for every child in the unit (sometimes topping 115 children) at Christmas. Pat would obtain the names and ages of the children so each child could be shopped for individually and then she and Ron wrapped all the presents. Around her 10th anniversary of providing these services, the Marine Corps honored Pat with a plaque, band and all the trappings she so richly deserved. In the last three years, Pat’s health has declined and she is confined to a wheelchair; she recruited Patti Brotherton and other ladies from The Gallery in Talega to help her continue these traditions. On Thursday, Aug. 25, we held a baby shower on base for 20, 11th MEU wives under the guidance of Kyp Hughes, family readiness officer. The base provided a PowerPoint
OCTA predicts this project will increase overall traffic speeds and save drivers an average of 30 seconds per mile even to the year 2040 with increased traffic levels.
As we endure the current construction and look forward to our commute improving, there is another roadway being contemplated that could have a direct effect on San Clemente.
The Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) is coordinating an outreach to determine the necessity and desire of an extension to the 241 Toll Road, which currently ends at Oso Parkway.
TCA’s goal is to extend the 241 Toll Road to Interstate 5. The toll road was originally designed to terminate south of San Clemente near Trestles. The California Coastal Commission and the United States Secretary of Commerce denied that extension in 2008.
If a connection to I-5 is not available south of San Clemente, a northern connection in our city will be contemplated. More information on this outreach can be
presentation and handouts to help plan budgets for the new family additions. Pat and Ron provided lunch and each expectant mother received a handmade baby blanket, stroller, play mat, a clothes basket full of baby items, bottles, diapers, handmade bonnets/hats, pacifiers, etc. They played games, and drawings were held for additional prizes and gift cards. At the end of the shower, each new mother required help to carry all her newly acquired baby items to her car. They were so very appreciative because most of them have such limited income and new babies are a big expense. The next party will be in December. If anyone would like to join us or help with gifts in this rewarding experience, please contact Carol Tiberi at cjtiberi@cox.net.
WAVE OF TAXES WILL COME WITH BOND
LAURA FERGUSON, San Clemente
With regards to the Aug. 25 San Clemente Times cover story on Capistrano Unified School District’s near billion dollar bond measure, taxpayers brace yourselves. A wave of new taxes will hit you hard if CUSD’s bond measure passes this November.
Be careful before voting, and be forewarned that the outcome is a taxation tsunami (a triple taxation tsunami for Mello-Roos taxpayers) that will last 35
accessed through www.getmovingoc.com.
One public forum has already occurred in Laguna Niguel where ideas for improved transportation were taken from the public.
A second public forum is scheduled in San Clemente where the ideas from the first forum will be presented. This forum is expected to take place sometime in early October.
This is an issue that will affect our city. I encourage all of San Clemente to attend this forum, be educated and give your opinion. As your Council representative on TCA, I look forward to your input. I hope to see you there.
If you have any questions or comments you’d like to share, please email me at wardk@san-clemente.org.
Kathy Ward is the Mayor Pro Tem of San Clemente. She was elected to City Council 2014. 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.
Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, September 2 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso
This week’s guest will be Dan Bane, who is running for City Council. 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.
years, paid by taxpayers today and their children tomorrow. This bond is a slush fund that is too big to control. There is no doubt there is a need at San Clemente High School and other aging schools that CUSD has ignored for 15-plus years despite receiving large amounts of property tax revenue from seven cities and unincorporated areas. San Clemente taxpayers send more than $50 million annually to CUSD. Why has CUSD allowed our older schools to deteriorate while giving raises across the board every year and ignoring students’ needs? A gross inequity exists when $120 million in just four years is spent on raises for adult employees, while kids suffer as school facilities deteriorate, programs are cut and parents are asked to fundraise for their “free” public education, and the large number of students per class causes many kids to slide academically.
CITY EDITOR
Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com
PICKET FENCE MEDIA
21 Calle Estilo Nuevo, San Clemente
TURNKEY FORMER MODEL HIGHLY UPGRADED HOME. Welcome to this 5 bedroom, 5 bathroom, plus bonus luxury home. The kitchen has recently been remodeled including new cabinets, new appliances, wine fridge, and Quartz Caesar Stone kitchen island. Travertine floors throughout main level. Recessed lighting, crown molding, baseboards, and plantation shutters. There are speakers throughout the inside of the home and in the backyard. Amazing master bedroom with retreat room and master bedroom balcony including ocean view. Beautifully designed walk in closet with cedar lining. New paint, and high quality Masland carpet throughout. Upstairs laundry room including large linen closet. Outside built in BBQ grill, fire pit, cougar stone hardscape, and two fountains. Home has direct access from your attached 3 car garage.
Ryan Hall
ryanhallsc@gmail.com
949.903.2132
BRE#01515531
(Cont. from page 12) he might accomplish these things nor do they seem to mind the vulgarity and rude insulting language that comes so naturally to him.
Coincidentally, in a year that a bond measure is introduced, CUSD is making facility improvements, perhaps to show some concerted effort to fix facilities. Take the two-story, 24-classroom project at SCHS that will commence construction this fall. CUSD fails to publicize that this project costing $14 million is not a result of sound fiscal stewardship by CUSD; instead, Talega taxpayers are funding $8 million of this project with special taxes CUSD over-collected from homeowners in excess of what was needed to pay the Mello-Roos debt. CUSD only stopped this practice after a taxpayer revolt. CUSD has allocated the remaining $2 million in Talega’s excess special taxes to a similar project at San Juan Hills High School. When completed, Talega taxpayers will have funded $20 million at SCHS and $20 million at San Juan Hills High School, and now they seek $1 billion more.
SOBER LIVING GIVES SHORT-TERM LIVING A BAD RAP
JERRY QUINLAN, San Clemente
For several years, I have provided a healthy family-vacation facility by the beach in the Pier Bowl, which has been diminished by exposure to the sober living facility three doors up the street on Monterey Lane. This is so sad. What would be the next idea, placing a cigar smoking area in a child’s bedroom?
WE NEED A PRESIDENT WITH VIRTUE, INTEGRITY
SANDRA WEAVER, San Clemente
I am responding to the guest opinion by Jim Kempton in the Aug. 18 edition of San Clemente Times: I am not affiliated with any political party and have always considered myself an Independent. I have voted for both Republicans and Democrats in my lifetime.
I was delighted to find someone who expressed my thoughts perfectly! Jim said “we have traded leadership for entertainment.” The media, in my opinion, has become an entertainment venue versus a news and information venue. If it bleeds, it leads. They love scandal. Donald Trump has made the news almost daily with his outrageous rantings and ridiculous promises. And he has won the support of enough of us to bring him to the Republican contender for president of the United States. Why? I believe there are two reasons. No. 1, many Republicans will vote for anyone running on the Republican ticket, no questions asked. Second, he is appealing to those passionate about the issues he raises, especially the immigration issue. He will build a wall (or have Mexico build it), and he will send all the undocumented people back. They are hearing the emotionally charged rhetoric spewed out with no real plan of action. Those who agree with his ideas on immigration and other issues don’t even think about how
Jim outlined the challenges of several of our past leaders and their flaws. He said he disagreed with many of the former candidates for office with regard to their policies but would not have been concerned if one of them became our president. “But now there is someone running who has nothing in common with these fine men,” Jim said. Jim asks “if any one of these men had said any one of the dozens of things espoused by the GOP candidate, what would we think of them?
“The Intelligence Committee said he is already a threat to our nation and many conservative businessmen, generals, congressmen, mayors and leaders of the GOP say he is unfit for office.”
We had 12 Republican nominees throw their hat in the ring and who was the last man standing? GOP leaders recognized his inadequacy for the presidency and tried unsuccessfully to prevent him from becoming their candidate for president.
The thing I really can’t understand is how anyone, regardless of political affiliation, can honestly support a man who is so egotistical, rude and vulgar in his speech. While he touts himself as a good businessman, he has said that he “tries to pay as little taxes as possible.” The president of the United States needs to be able to communicate with leaders of all nations with respect and integrity. And we expect him or her to have a working knowledge of foreign affairs. We face many far more serious problems today than ever before. Terrorism and the environment are just two of them. Our Republican candidate for president said regarding ISIS: “ISIS is making a tremendous amount of money because they have certain oil camps… They have some in Syria, some in Iraq. I would bomb the s--- out of ‘em. I would just bomb those suckers.” And on global warming he tweets, “it’s really cold outside….man, we could use a big fat dose of global warming.”
Let’s put our political biases aside for this election and look at the choices we have for the next president of the United States. Many of us do not like either candidate. But let’s remember that it is we, the people, who are really responsible for the health and wellbeing of our country. It is up to us to choose our leaders. What qualifications should they possess? What kind of personality traits do we want to see in a world leader? Finally, remember that we are a government of the people and by the people and by letting our voices be heard loud and strong, we can create a world that works for everyone. Our leaders in Congress will listen.
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.
GETTING OUT SC
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
What’s going on in and around town this week
Thursday | 01
LIVE MUSIC: MARSHALL TUCKER BAND
6 p.m. Listen to the iconic classic country rock music of the Marshall Tucker Band at The Coach House. Tickets start at $38. 33157 Camino Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.
OC PARKS SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
6-8 p.m. JR JR with Big Monsta will perform during the summer concert. The event is free and open to the public. There will be food trucks, a beer tent and more. Bluff Park at Salt Creek Beach. 33333 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.923.2280.
BOOK SIGNING: DICK GRAHAM
6-9 p.m. The Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC) will host an evening with author and Surfing Magazine founder, Dick Graham, who will sign copies of his new book, The Ride, and take part in a Q&A session with attendees. The Ride is a photo essay and coffee table book that looks at surfing in the ’60s and ’70s. Admission is free. SHACC’s no-host bar will feature beer from Left Coast Brewing Co., wine from Longboard Vineyards, Hawaiian Springs water and Kona Red natural energy drinks. 110 Calle Iglesias, San Clemente. 949.388.0313. www.surfingheritage.org.
FIRST THURSDAY ART WALK RECEPTION
6-9 p.m. Meet Dana Point artist John C. Hall at the Cove Gallery. Hall is the gallery’s “Artist of the Month.” 1492 South Coast Highway, Suite 8. 949.715.7149. www.covegallerylaguna.com.
RHONE VALLEY AND PASO ROBLES BLIND TASTE-OFF
7-9 p.m. Taste six great wines, three from France and three from Paso Robles, which is California’s premier Rhone-style region. You’ll be served two wines at a time—one French and one Californian—with the goal of identifying which is the Paso wine. $25 to taste all six wines, plus appetizers. Barnoa Wine Company. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.
Friday | 02
LIVE MUSIC: THE FOUR CORNERS BAND 7-11 pm. Listen to tunes from the Four Corners Band at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El
EDITOR’S PICK
SATURDAY, SEPT. 3: MONARCHS OF JAZZ
6:30 p.m. Enjoy a three-course dinner and listen to an evening of live music from Grammy Award-winning R&B jazz legend Deniece Williams (pictured); Grammy-nominated pianist/composer David Benoit; guitarist Paul Jackson Jr.; vocalist Kiki Ebsen and internationally renowned saxophonist Michael Paulo. Tickets are $195; VIP tickets are $250 and include a meet and greet with the artists and premier seating. Monarch Beach Resort. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. 949.234.3200. www.monarchbeachresort.com
Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.
LIVE MUSIC: FELISHA
8 p.m. Listen to live music from Felisha at Barnoa Wine Company. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.
Saturday | 02
HEADLANDS NATURE WALK
9-11 a.m. This walk focuses on the plants and the animals that can be found on the Dana Point Headlands. It is designed to introduce participants to local plant communities, notably Coastal Sage Scrub, and to teach them about the wildlife that relies on it. Participants will learn specifically about our endemic (found only in Southern California) rare and endangered plants and animals (notably Cliff Spurge, Pacific Pocket Mouse and Coastal California Gnatcatcher). Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. RSVP to 949.248.3527 or DPNaturalResources@danapoint.org.
HISTORIC HOME TOUR
10 a.m. Join The Ecology Center for a guided tour of their historic home, built by pony express rider Joel Congdon in 1878. Over the last seven years, they’ve transformed the land surrounding the Congdon house into a thriving learning landscape. $5 suggested donation. The Ecology Center. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano.
949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org.
LIVE MUSIC: NICK TERRAFRANCA
8 p.m. Listen to live music from Nick Terrafranca at Barnoa Wine Company. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.
Sunday | 04
KARAOKE AT GOODY’S
8 p.m. Karaoke every Sunday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.
Monday | 05
LIVE IT UP FOR LABOR DAY
11 a.m.- 1 p.m. This poolside Labor Day party will feature a live DJ, signature cocktails and games. The party will kick off with family-friendly activities. Life Time Athletic Laguna Niguel. 25600 Rancho Niguel Road. 949.238.2700. www.lifetimefitness.com.
FREE GUITAR LESSONS
5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for Jr. High to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.
At the Movies: ‘The Intervention’ Plays it Safe
BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
In 1983, Lawrence Kasdan penned the ensemble drama The Big Chill to much popularity from its soundtrack and helped push to stardom future A-listers like Kevin Kline, Glenn Close and Jeff Goldblum. After watching The Intervention (2016), I imagine actress Clea DuVall was inspired to write her own, modernday perspective of the classic for herself and her friends. The Big Chill revolved around a funeral that reunites a group of old college friends together for a weekend.
In The Intervention, engaged couple Annie (Melanie Lynskey) and Matt (Jason Ritter) plan a friendly get-together for a weekend at Jessie’s (DuVall) family house to meet up with him and his girlfriend, Sarah (Natasha Lyonne), Jack (Ben Schwartz), Jack’s new girlfriend, Lola (Alia Shawkat), and married couple Ruby (Cobie Smulders) and Peter (Vincent Piazza). In reality, Annie has secretly orchestrated an intervention on Ruby and Peter’s toxic marriage.
DuVall makes her screenwriting and directing debut with The Intervention, and it is a fine little movie for what it is, though a little safe. It doesn’t have a catchy soundtrack of oldies like Big Chill, but newer, mellow tunes including Tegan & Sara and Courtney Barnett. The whole movie is like a student film between close friends with great cinematography, and it particularly shows between Lynskey, DuVall and Lyonne. The three have been besties for years and it’s great to see them mesh with well-regarded actors like Piazza and Smulders. Though not that original, Intervention might be worth checking out while browsing on VOD. SC
San Clemente
Photo: Samuel Goldwyn Films/Paramount Pictures
Photo: Courtesy
SUNDAY, SEPT. 4: VILLAGE ART FAIRE
EDITOR’S PICK
9 a.m. Stroll and shop Avenida Del Mar where more than 60 vendors will have arts, crafts and other items. The Village Art Faire is held on the first Sunday of every month and is put on by the Downtown Business Association. www.villagesanclemente.org.
Tuesday | 06
HALF-PRICE WHALE WATCHING
10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard this two-hour cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life in the wild. $22.50. Trips are available every day of the week. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.
OPEN MIC NIGHT
6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
Wednesday | 07
FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB
2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French Flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.
FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S
9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.
Sushi Burrito
GEN KAI
34143 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.240.2004. www.sushiorangecounty.com.
Entering Gen Kai is a trip. En route to the parking lot, there’s an alley with black tarps covering fences around a construction zone and an empty lot filled with the skeletons of mail carts strewn haphazardly as if embalmed in a Pompeiian-level disaster. Cars whir into white noise on PCH near the doorway, which may or may not be locked judging on looks alone.
But inside is a different world. A nondescript golden oldie about love blasts over the loudspeaker as the restaurant aggressively achieves fuzzy diversity, bustling at midday lunch with people from every walk of life. It’s like a speakeasy, or maybe just something close to a sushi bar in a populated city of Japan, or at least the booze-goggled and romantic Bourdain-ified depiction of one.
The inclination is to assume it’s authentic, because the food is excellent. Gen Kai’s take on the trendy sushi burrito comes in much closer to onigiri (geometric stuffed rice “balls”) than some heinous cross-cultural Frankenstein monster. Crab meat, shrimp tempura, tuna and avocado are wrapped in soy paper and dotted with black and white sesame seeds and assembled into an easy-to-handle, burrito-like structure. The accompanying red chili, soy and sweet mayo sauces are dynamite with the burrito, imparting heat and peachy sweetness. The best bites are the ones with crunch from the tempura. —Matt Cortina
Thursday | 08
CASINO SUMMER NIGHTS JAZZ SERIES
7:30-10 p.m. Visit the Casino San Clemente for their summer jazz series. Tickets are $7 online $10 at the door. Order online at www.casinosummernights.brownpapertickets.com. 140 W. Avenida Pico. 949.369.660. www.thecasinosanclemente.com.
UPCOMING: MONDAY, SEPT. 12
SOCKS FORE HEROES
GOLF TOURNAMENT
11 a.m. Celebrate the American men and women who have fought and continue to fight forces overseas at our Socks FORE Heroes Golf Tournament. Lunch, dinner and a complimentary gift bag will be given to each participant. There will also be a silent auction and prizes. All net proceeds will go to benefit Americans serving in harm’s way and their families who remain behind through the San Clemente Marine Corps Support Group. Single registration is $200; a four-person registration is $750. You can also sponsor a Marine for $175. Register at www.scmcsg.org. Bella Collina Golf Club, San Clemente. 949.498.6604.
For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com
Band of the Week: Keith Harkin and Celtic Thunder
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Musician Keith Harkin finds
self in a natural habitat in San Clemente.
“I travel a lot and surf a lot, and my music is sort of part of who I am, and they go hand in hand,” Harkin said.
Celtic Thunder, the band Harkin heads, will perform at 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 14 at OC Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real in San Clemente, as part of the Ball and Chain Tour, which began Aug. 15
Harkin was signed to a record label about five years ago when he first came to California. He now lives in Los Angeles and said it’s easy for him to do shows in South Orange County.
But before finding permanence, he was a bit of a nomad.
“I was working a lot in Los Angeles, and I bought a 45-foot Santa Barbara trailer and lived there, and now I’ve got an apartment in L.A.,” Harkin said. “I grew up surfing in Ireland and fantasized about living in warm weather.”
A lot of Harkin’s music is derived from rock and roll legends such as Thin Lizzy and Van Morrison.
Celtic Thunder is a five-piece band that recently recorded its first album, On Mercy Street, an all-live music record tracked at
London’s Sphere Studios with some of his closest musician friends. The music was played like “proper musicians,” Harkin said.
Harkin said his band enjoys smaller locations rather than large venues, just about all the main big ones.
“We play mainly in small clubs and small theaters,” he said. “The way I like to do it is small places and have them filled up. I’m a fan as well as a musician, and when it’s packed, it’s unbelievable.”
Harkin and his band will be debuting a Christmas album in November and another live album following that.
Harkin will perform a selection of new songs from On Mercy Street
“From the yearning of ‘Mercy,’ to the roar of the hard-rocking ‘Keep On Rolling,’ the new songs offer the perfect blend of live blues/rock and soul performance showpieces,” Harkin stated in a press release.
For more information, visit www. blueelanrecords.com/release/on-mercystreet. SC
Sushi Burrito. Photo: Matt Cortina
Photo: Courtesy
him-
Keith Harkin and Celtic Thunder will perform Sept. 14 at OC Tavern. Photo: Courtesy of Keith Harkin The
BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only
or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com.
ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT
Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program
2411 S. El Camino Real, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com
AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING
Solstice Heating and Air 2208 El Camino Real, Ste. #1, 949.573.3607, www.solsticehvac.com
APPLIANCES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
Attention, Behavior and the Brain Concerned about your child’s future due to attention or behavior issues? With a natural approach we resolve the underlying problems in the brain and body to improve school and home life – from ADD and dyslexia to the autistic spectrum. www.theblissprogram.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing 929 Calle Negocio #D, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com
Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302
POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL
Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com
SC Pool & Spa Works 1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com
REAL ESTATE
Marcie GeorgeStar Real Estate South County 949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net “Sandy & Rich” - ReMax 949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
SALONS
Salon Bamboo
150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
Salon Bleu
207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com
Syrens Hair Parlor 217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
SCHOOLS
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org
SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
SWIMMING SCHOOL
Waterbabies Swim School 142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com
TERMITES
Colony Termite Control 1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT
Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org
OBITUARY
Mary Ann Cadman
Mary Ann Cadman, a San Clemente resident since 1960, left this world to be with the Lord on 8-21-2016. She was 80 years old. She was preceded in death by Gordon, her husband of 53 years. She leaves one daughter, Kathleen (Wayne) Theirrien, grandchildren, Daniel and Salena Theirrien, her brother, Ted (Candy) Fisher of Washington State, and a sister, Helen (William) Moses of Liberty, MO. She leaves
many nieces and nephews. Mary worked for the Orange County School District for 25 years, and the YMCA for a number of years. Mary enjoyed baking cookies, and making peanut butter fudge for the San Clemente Fire Department, Unit 60, which were delivered at Christmas. Mary will be laid to rest beside her husband, Gordon, in Lewiston, Maine, where a private service will take place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society, or Diabetes Association.
CLASSIFIEDS
Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com
MONTESSORI SCHOOL LIQUIDATION
24292 Del Prado/Blue Lantern, Dana Point. Fill one box for $7. Saturday, September 3. 8:30 am to noon. Cash only. Questions: Call Harry 949 697 1411 Sterling Estate Sales.
CUSTOM AREA RUGS
You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Mike 949-240-1545.
Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com.
Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.
NOW HIRING
The City of San Clemente is seeking Head Pool lifeguards and Pool Lifeguards. Please apply online at san-clemente.org/jobs.
HANDYMAN CHRIS
Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris –949 510 6645 SERVICES
WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD
Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris949 510 6645
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
San Clemente
LIVING
Should I Worry About My Teen’s Behavior?
parent recently asked me, “How do I know if I should be worried about my child?” This mother had been wondering if she needed to talk to a professional, talk to a friend over coffee or just let things be. The best situations are when I can reassure a parent and say, “That is a totally normal behavior for a child that age.”
AND PREVENTION
By Susan Parmelee
Not surprisingly, the two most confusing times for parents are the periods of toddlerhood and adolescence—when there is such rapid brain development and social growth that we often wonder if a kid is really the same person they were two weeks ago. I am not going to discuss toddlerhood (your pediatrician is the expert for those ages), but I do recommend thinking back to the temper tantrums and the stubborn determination of a 3-year-old when your teen’s behaviors are challenging. We now know that periods of rapid brain development can cause some unexpected moments of chaos.
An adolescent’s job is to separate from their family. Quite simply, they are preparing to fire you as a manager and, maybe in a few years, hire you back as a consultant when they develop a little more wisdom and remember back to all those times you gave them such good advice and guidance. Those years of being kicked out of their lives can be stressful for parents. Parents often have to watch their kids fail before they learn to manage their lives better. Emotions and drama are front and center in your teen’s life and they actually need you to feel and absorb this emotion, not minimize their feelings.
No matter how stressed or emotional your teen becomes, you should expect
Sudoku
BY MYLES MELLOR
Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium
Susan Parmelee
Business Beat
News from San Clemente’s business community
COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ
your child to follow reasonable house rules, to respect the people in his or her life and to communicate with civility. When the behaviors start to seem very detached from your teen’s personality and values, it may be time to consult a trusted friend, your family doctor or a mental health professional. There are several warning signs that I pay attention to when working with parents and their teens, including: extreme shifts in sleep, diet or hygiene; atypical behaviors; a complete change in friends; or a lack of engagement in activities outside the home.
The warning signs listed above can be a sign of substance use and/or a mental health disorder. If you notice a dramatic change in any of the areas of self-care (diet, sleep or hygiene) it may be time for concern and a consult with a medical professional. Atypical behaviors can range from punching walls or extreme emotional tantrums to stealing and abuse of others. While it is normal for teens to change social circles, it is not normal for your child to completely break away to an entirely new friend group. Often this signals that trusted friends no longer approve of your child’s behavior and they could be dabbling in risky behaviors. Finally, if your child has isolated themselves from outside activities, this may also be a sign of mental health issues. Most teens are actively involved in passions outside of the home with their peers. SC
Susan Parmelee is a mental health social worker and one of the founders of the Wellness & Prevention Center, San Clemente. She can be reached at susan@wellnessandpreventionsanclemente.com.
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
50th Anniversary
AVILA’S EL RANCHITO MEXICAN RESTAURANT
204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000 www.avilaselranchito.com
The first Avila’s restaurant in the chair opened 50 years ago in Huntington Park, and in 2004 Avila’s El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant opened in San Clemente.
Today, Victor Avila, the son of the original owners, and his son, Marcus, both live in San Clemente and are celebrating the chain’s golden anniversary.
On Thursday, Sept. 1, they will host a party with specials and raffle prizes from 5 p.m. until closing
“When I was young, everyone chipped in to get the restaurant started,” Victor said. “The restaurant grew a bit, and somehow or another we started thinking of giving my parents a vacation, and I liked the business and they were always supportive.”
Today there are 13 locations in Orange, San Diego and Los Angeles counties.
“I think a lot of it is just truly loving the business,” Marcus said. “It was just one of those things I missed. I went away from it for a little while, but once you’re in it and love it you want to come back.”
The recipes are original from Victor’s mother, and all the locations have similar menus but local dishes can vary.
“There’s so many generations (involved),” Victor said. “It’s great that people can experience the dishes I grew up enjoying.”
New Ownership
BILLY’S MEATS, SEAFOOD AND DELI 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5924 www.billyssanclemente.com
Todd Bowers acquired Billy’s Meats,
Seafood and Deli with his wife, Leslie, at the end of June with the promise to the former owners to keep the business in its original state.
“We fell in love with Billy’s,” Todd said. “We heard the founders were going to retire, and we met with them and really fell in love with the deli and the people.”
While meeting with the former owners, Todd said they wanted to know who was taking over their business and the motivation of the owner; they wanted the new owners to keep it as original as possible.
“You feel like a VIP when you come in here,” he said. “The deli staff is very attentive and want to make sure you have an experience that you can’t find anywhere else. We wanted to keep that character of this place.”
Todd’s background is in food service and distribution. He formerly handled the U.S. operations for BP and Arco gas stations and was involved in the development of the coffee program. Todd launched new products and promoted different product offerings. “You always want to keep things consistent, but you also want to bring in some new things to keep the customers interested,” Todd said.
Todd Bowers, left, and his wife, Leslie, recently purchased Billy’s Meat, Seafood and Deli on Avenida Del Mar with the intent of keeping it primarily the same as it is. Photo: Eric Heinz
Victor Avlia, left, and his son, Marcus, will host a celebration of the restaurant chain’s 50th anniversary on Thursday, Sept. 1. Photo: Eric Heinz
Starting the Conversation
Local grassroots group Green Ribbon Club aims to destigmatize mental illness
BY ALLISON JARRELL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
It began as an idea 23-year-old Brian McInerney had in June. The San Juan Capistrano resident wanted to make a positive change in South Orange County communities that over the years have been left reeling after suicide- or addictionrelated deaths of young adults.
That was the case two years ago, when the San Juan Hills High School alum lost a family friend to suicide. A year later, the boy’s brother completed suicide as well. McInerney said with each death, a devastated community came together and mourned the loss of the young men, but it wasn’t long—maybe weeks, or a month— before the issue of mental health faded away. McInerney, who suffers from bipolar disorder, took personal note of his friends’ deaths.
“There were no red flags, no warning signs, nothing,” he recalled.
It was after a conversation with his boss at Western Youth Services in Lake Forest that McInerney had the idea to start a club—The Green Ribbon Club. McInerney said that, while in a bit of a manic state, he began buying domain names and rallying people, without really knowing what he was doing.
McInerney’s actions have resulted in The Green Ribbon Club, an advocacy organization in its infancy. The aspiring nonprofit aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health in Orange County. Comprised of South Orange County students and recent graduates who have lost friends to either suicide or addiction, the group’s hope is to begin reducing the number of suicides and overdoses within the community by making mental health a household discussion.
With the support of local organizations such as Western Youth Services and the Mariposa Center in San Juan, McInerney and members meet each Tuesday to
discuss the developing group’s foundation and best practices for spreading their message.
Megan Habel, 21, of San Clemente, said she became involved with the club via her stepsister, who was also a part of the club before heading to Baylor University as a freshman. Her sister is now starting a chapter at Baylor, and McInerney said chapters are also cropping up at Chapman University and UC Davis.
“For me personally, struggling with mental illness as well, I’m more comfortable going to a group this age, sharing my story and encouraging people my age,” Habel said. “Teenagers and young adults are the next generation, and we need to stick around for each other and help each other out.”
McInerney acknowledged that organizations normally set a foundation before spreading their message, but the last two months have been a whirlwind of community interest—from San Clemente and Dana Point, to San Juan and Mission Viejo.
“For better or worse, what’s happened for us is, we haven’t quite solidified [our foundation] yet, and people have come to us saying, ‘I love the idea. I’m going to start a chapter,’” McInerney said. “Those people have gone out of their way to do that. So there’s a lot of passion behind it.”
The group held its first public meeting on July 28 at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, where three speakers addressed the importance of discussing
the reality of mental illness, the stigma surrounding illnesses such as depression and addiction, and the rising number of suicides and accidental overdoses in Orange County.
With overwhelming positive response from participants, many in their early 20s, club member Mishayla Jones, 21, of Dana Point, said she personally hopes to begin developing strong relationships with local high schools, where depression and mental illness are prominent.
The group has also been reaching out to city councils and commissions, and in the near future, hopes to develop a simple, user-friendly resource sheet with contacts of local organizations, as well as facts and misconceptions about mental illness.
“What makes us special, I think, is in southern Orange County, we’re a young group of kids who have other lives—we go to college, go to school, have other jobs—and we dedicate our time to this group because we know it’s important,” Jones said. “We’re trying to end the stigma against mental illness, and trying to tell people that it’s OK to not be OK.”
For more information on the club or upcoming meetings, visit www.GreenRibbonClub.org, email ocgreenribbonclub@gmail.com or follow the group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TheGreenRibbonClub. The club also has a GoFundMe page at www.gofundme. com/greenribbonclub. SC
From left, Megan Habel, Brian McInerney, Vishant Kumar and Mishayla Jones of the Green Ribbon Club. Photo: Allison Jarrell
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Hundreds Attend Third Annual Live Like Nick 5K at SCHS
SAN CLEMENTE TIMES and makes donations to the San Clemente High School Athletic departments and local youth sports organizations.
The third annual Live Like Nick 5K Run/Walk was held at San Clemente High School on Aug. 28. More than 850 people attended the event, which honors the memory of Nick Pasquale.
The event is a major fundraiser for the Nick Pasquale Foundation, which offers scholarships to local high school students
Scoreboard
SOCCER CLUB TAKES TOP PRIZE AT SC SURF SUMMER CLASSIC
The California Football Club’s San Clemente boys U15 team won its division at the San Clemente Surf Summer Classic tournament on Aug. 21. The team, which draws players from San Clemente and Dana Point, won three games en route to claiming the championship.
The team includes Paul Duke, Sean Colson, Christian Key-Marer, Andrew Winkler, Ethan Grush, Marcello Rossi, Armin Kazemi, Donny Rimer, Clay Mosher, Luke Blackwill, Shiva Kumar, Brett Sayer, Hayden Beauchemin, Trevor Tuttle, Jack
The event featured a fun run for children and a 5K, which looped runners around the SCHS campus. For more information on the Nick Pasquale Foundation, visit www.nickpasqualefoundation.com. SC
Harris, Sam Klopstock, Asher Foy and Chance Walker. The team is coached by Andy Bird and Dan Foy.
SC SURF TEAM WINS BODYARMOR CLASSIC
The San Clemente Surf Soccer Club’s 07-Caudillo’s team won its division at the BodyArmor Classic in Yorba Linda on Aug. 28. The local team won all four of its games by a combined score of 20-0.
The team includes Aidan Armijo, Daniel Bravo, Joaquim Baumgardner, Travis Goodwin, Rex Hennings, Owen Hornig, Maverick McCaig, Becket Miller, David Mora, Diego Mora, Taj Roghair and Alex Sheehan. SC
Children participate in the Live Like Nick 5K fun run on Aug. 28. Photo: Courtesy
SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The SC Surf 07-Caudillo team won its division at the BordyArmor Classic. Photo: Courtesy
The CFA boys U15 team won its division at the SC Surf Classic. Photo: Courtesy
Big Plays Lead Oceanside Past Tritons in Season Opener
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The Oceanside offense started out rather sluggish in its season-opening game against San Clemente on Aug. 26. But when the Pirates playmakers finally got on the same page, it led to one big play after another.
Oceanside quarterback Max Shuffer threw for 426 yards and five touchdowns to four different receivers to lead the visiting Pirates past the Tritons 51-42.
Shuffer, who completed just one of his first six pass attempts, caught fire in the second quarter and stayed hot throughout the rest of the closely contested game. The senior threw seven passes for over 25 yards, including two throws that went for over 60 yards. The first huge throw Shuffer made went to Jake Gerardi, a 6-foot-4-inch wide out, who caught the ball over two Triton defenders in the middle of the field and sprinted home for a 61-yard touchdown that cut into San Clemente’s lead 14-7.
The two teams exchanged touchdowns in the first half, and went into the final two quarters tied 21-21.
Every time the Tritons found the end zone in the second half, the Pirates had an answer.
San Clemente quarterback Jack Sears ran in his second touchdown of the night to open the third quarter, but the lead only lasted four minutes. On its next possession, Oceanside lined up to attempt a 33-yard field goal, but benefited from a costly San Clemente penalty that gave them a fresh set of downs. Shuffer quickly connected with Puka Kaleopa-Tuisee for a nine-yard touchdown pass to make it 28-28.
Oceanside took its first lead of the night in the fourth quarter following a 14-yard touchdown pass from Shuffer to Azizi Hearn that made it 35-28. Sears responded by threading a pass to Chris Kane for a 27-yard score on the Tritons next possession.
With the score tied 42-42, the Pirates ate up the clock and executed on a drama-filled final drive. After driving his team down to the Tritons 35-yard line, Shuffer heaved the ball into the end zone and was nearly intercepted. Seven plays later, Oceanside running back Tevin Meadows scored the winning touchdown with 10 seconds remaining.
Shuffer and the Pirates’ receivers tested the Tritons’ secondary all night. Although San Clemente was able to deflect several passes, they could not come up with a big play of their own.
“We had numerous opportunities to make plays and we didn’t and (Oceanside) did,” San Clemente coach Jaime Ortiz said. “Defensively, there were three or four times where the ball was right in their hands and we had the opportunity to turn the ball over and make a play and unfortunately we didn’t do that.”
Sears completed 17 of 28 passes for 190 yards and three touchdowns. He also ran for 136 yards and two scores on 20 carries.
Gerardi caught six passes for 147 yards and a score, while Kaleopa-Tuisee caught five passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns.
San Clemente will travel to play Huntington Beach (1-0) on Sept. 2. The Oilers, who are under the guidance of first-year head coach Brett Brown, opened their season with a 43-0 victory over West Adams Prep of Los Angeles on Aug. 26. SC
The San Clemente dance team performs during halftime on Aug. 26. Photo: Eric Heinz
San Clemente’s Jack Sears (16) runs the ball against Oceanside on Aug. 26. Photo: Eric Heinz
The San Clemente student section cheers on the football team on Aug. 26. Photo: Eric Heinz
Oceanside’s Puka Kaleopa-Tuisee caught five passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns in a 51-42 victory over San Clemente on Aug. 26 Photo: Eric Heinz
SC SURF
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
At Long Last
Hurley Pro and Swatch
Women’s Pro kick off at Lower Trestles on Sept. 7
BY JAKE HOWARD,
s far as summer surf goes, it started with a bang here in South Orange County. Warm water and a consistent string of south swells kept things in the fun zone in June and July. Then came August with its south wind, plunging water temps and nar y a swell over hip high. But as we now head into fall—arguably the best time of year around San Clemente and Dana Point—the Pacific has stirred back to life, and there’s a lot to be excited about.
On Sept. 7, the waiting period for the Hurley Pro and Swatch Women’s Pro kicks off at Lower Trestles. The best surfers in the world are coming to town, and whether you’re a diehard fan of competitive surfing or are just looking to spend a day at the beach, it’s a heck of a show. Having the most illuminating talent on the World Surf League’s Championship Tour in the local waters is always a treat, but as the old adage goes, a surf contest is only as good as the waves. Let’s just say the extended surf outlook is promising.
“We’re looking at an impressive and ongoing low passing by to the south of New Zealand. This low is on track to deliver a pretty good run of southwest/southsouthwest swell (220-200) with forerunners creeping up through the day on Sept. 7 and size building on Sept. 8,” said Surfline forecaster Schaler Perry. “The swell looks to top out on Sept. 9/10, before easing through the following weekend. A reinforcing push of south-southwest/south swell may offer decent size clear into the following week.”
The waiting period for the men’s and women’s events runs from Sept. 7-18, which means the run of swell is setting up
to arrive just as things kick off. Early estimates are calling for it to be a foot or two overhead when it peaks, but it could get better. There’s a strong possibility it could be re-enforced by some classic chubasco conditions.
“In the tropics, models are in pretty good agreement we’ll have a tropical system develop early next week off the coast of southwest Mexico. Further, they are becoming pretty bullish suggesting said tropical system will be sizeable, strong and have potential to make it into the SoCal swell window,” continued Perry.
In 2004, the contest, then called the Boost Mobile Pro, enjoyed all-time, classic Lowers conditions. It started off with three-
to five-foot surf before a swell dubbed the “Monster Down Under” served up sets that topped out in the 10-foot range. Eventually won by Aussie Joel Parkinson, who beat 11-time world champ Kelly Slater in the final, it’s too early to say if this year will see something similar, but it’s definitely setting up nicely.
“It is one of my favorite places in the world,” said Slater, who catapulted himself onto the scene with a historic win at the 1990 Body Glove Surf Bout and the ensuing Quiksilver film, Black and White
The winningest surfer ever at everyone’s favorite cobblestone point break with seven titles in a remarkable career that’s spanned over 26 years, in 2012 Slater got Parkinson back as he notched his 50th career world tour victory and third win in a row at Lowers. Coming off a huge win at the Billabong Pro Tahiti at the end of August, today Slater’s as relevant (and hungry) as ever.
“If I get another win or two, we can talk about that,” said Slater of his chances to win his 12th world title in 2016.
We could very well be having that conversation in San Clemente in a couple weeks. But Slater’s march to the top of the podium is hardly a sure thing. There’s more talent on the tour today than ever before.
Hawaiian phenom (and Slater heir) John John Florence has just taken over the top spot on the WSL ratings after his runnerup finish (to Slater) in Tahiti. The wave at Lowers suits his radical combination of full-rail, carving turns and uninhibited airs. He reckons the spot’s “like a skatepark.”
Behind him is a hungry pack of Brazilians, including former world champ Gabriel Medina and San Clemente transplant Filipe Toledo. Both are going to be extremely dangerous this year, and with added local knowledge, Toledo could definitely be one to watch.
“I love this wave, it’s a large part of why I moved my family to San Clemente,” says Toledo. “There’s so many possibilities at Lowers.”
Also making an appearance will be defending Hurley Pro champ Mick Fanning. Taking a “personal year” this season, Fanning’s only been surfing in select contests and Lowers will probably be his last appearance this year. In 2015, he was famously attacked by a great white shark in the final of the J-Bay Open in South Africa, and he’s used most of this year to get his head back on straight.
“For me, this year feels a lot lighter not going for a world title so I’m really enjoying my surfing and having a lot of fun. I’ll be surfing at Trestles this year and I think that might be that last event of the year,” said Fanning after returning to South Africa and winning the J-Bay Open. “World titles aren’t the biggest thing for me at the moment— I’m all about enjoying my surfing.”
And maybe that’s the takeaway from all the action we have coming down the pipeline in the next couple weeks: whatever you do, just get out there and enjoy sur fing. SC
SURF FORECAST
Water Temperature: 65-67 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-10’ Fair
BY
Congrats to San Juan Capistrano’s Patrick O’Connor, who finished runner-up in the National Scholastic Surfing Association Explorer contest at C Street in Ventura last weekend. Held in playful combo swell conditions, he made the trip north of L.A. and locked in a solid result against a competitive, and considerably more local field.
Not just a grom hungr y for a trophy,
12-year-old O’Connor is a multi-talented regular-footer as comfortable on a standard shortboard as he is on a longboard or a skateboard. His older sister, Teresa, is already grace personified on a log and has obviously been a big influence on his stylish approach. Happy to ride whatever board may be underfoot, for being so young O’Connor holds a deep appreciation for surfboard design and rips just as hard on a ’70s-style twin-fin as he does airing out of the bowl at his local skatepark. He also sites iconic stylists such as Tony Alva and Larry Bertleman as influences.
Last year, O’Connor had very positive, head-turning outings at the Western Surfing Association West Coast Championships
and the Volcom Totally Crustaceous Tour. It appears the momentum is continuing to build in 2016 as sixth grade at Marco Forester Middle School gets underway. SC
Thursday: SSW swell lingers with minor NW windswell mixing in. Look for knee-waist-chest high (2-3’+) surf at better breaks. Southern hemi focal points and top combo exposures are running slightly bigger on sets. Calm to light/variable winds early for mostly clean conditions. Winds trend stronger onshore through the morning, then moderate West-WSW flow develops over the afternoon. Partly to mostly cloudy early, skies clearing through the day.
Outlook: Southern hemi swell remains the primary source for surf through the week with minor Northwest windswell mixing in. Surf heights are down, expected to be waist high or less for the upcoming weekend. Better Southern hemi swell lining up for the back half of next week. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.
SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Kelly Slater and others will compete in the Hurley Pro next week at Trestles in San Clemente.
