May 25, 2017

EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five

things San Clemente should know this week

Memorial Day

Celebrations Scheduled for Monday, May 29

THE LATEST: Memorial Day is celebrated thoroughly each year in San Clemente. As is tradition, the city will host a ceremony from 11-noon on Monday, May 29, at the San Clemente Community Center lawn, located at 100 N. Calle Seville, with guest speakers San Clemente resident Lt. Col. Luke McConnell of United States Marine Corps and Joint Task Force North, followed by guest speaker George Key, a U.S. Army veteran of WWII and the Korean War.

From 2-3 p.m. at Park Semper Fi, another ceremony will take place to celebrate all members of the military. The guest speaker is Lt. Col Warren Cook, the commanding officer of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, the city’s adopted battalion. This ceremony is sponsored by the city and The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation. Cook spoke to the San Clemente Times regarding the importance of Memorial Day and remembering active and retired military personnel.

“It is…a yearly reminder that the opportunities and way of life we enjoy have come through great sacrifice from the generations that have come before us, and it remains incumbent on us all to ensure our way of life for those yet to come,” Cook said.

WHAT’S NEXT: For an extended interview with Cook, visit this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. —Eric Heinz

Drones Ordinance Goes nto Effect June 1

THE LATEST: Modeled after the Federal Aviation Administration’s, the city adopted regulations on drones and unmanned aviation systems at its May 2 meeting in an effort to maintain public safety. The ordinance outlines basic guidelines to restrict flying too close to other aircraft, over public events without proper permitting or permission, and flying outside a line of sight and other regulations.

WHAT’S NEXT: To view the full ordinance, click the link in this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. —Staff

Family Assistance Ministries, Agencies Offer Assessments of Homeless Families in South County

THE LATEST: Since Tuesday, May 23, local agencies have offered free assessments for homeless families in need of resources. Families can meet with volunteers who will help log their information and the situations they currently face.

The assessments are geared toward families who are homeless by federal definition, which includes living in their car, places not meant for human habitation or a hotel paid for by an agency, Family Assistance Ministries’ (FAM) executive director Mary Perdue said.

“This is the first countywide assessment, and eight agencies (participating) will share the information among themselves,” Perdue said. “Many (homeless families) hide during the Point-in-Time study. They’re afraid they’ll lose custody of their children. That’s not what this is about. It’s about helping people get the services that they need.”

The Point-in-Time study is a census taken by volunteer organizations every two years to try to accurately gauge the homeless populations in Orange County. The full report is expected to be released in June.

The organizations participating are FAM, American Family Housing, Families Forward, Mercy House, Pathways of Hope, South County Outreach, the County of Orange, 211OC and The Children and Families Commission of Orange County.

“Based on best practices nationwide, we will follow the key framework: Housing First, finding out who is out there, tracking our progress and improving local systems,” a FAM press release stated. “You can help by sending families with minoraged children who are living in their car, living on the streets, or camping to one of the assessment sites. They will complete a questionnaire at the assessment site,

which takes 30 minutes to an hour. No appointment is necessary.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The families will receive a food gift card as a “thank you” for participating.

The last day for assessments is Thursday, May 25, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

San Clemente: FAM Resource Center, located at 1030 Calle Negocio

Dana Point: San Felipe de Jesus Catholic Church, located at 26010 Domingo Avenue

San Juan Capistrano: Community Presbyterian Church, located at 32202 Del Obispo Street.

Laguna Niguel: Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church, 30071 Ivy Glenn Drive

For information and additional assessment sites, visit www.homelessfamiliescount.com. An extended story on the assessments will be published in next week’s edition of the San Clemente Times —EH

City Looks to Tighten Budget in Years Ahead

THE LATEST: City officials conferred Monday, May 22, to discuss the 2017-18 fiscal year city budget.

Standing in front of the televised projectors, Assistant City Manager Erik Sund posted a theme for this and following years’ budget approach: “As we approach future years, it is essential the City do more with less.”

It’s not that the city isn’t making money; it’s that the planned spending is outpacing that revenue, or at least that’s the forecast.

Additionally, city officials said they may not have as much capital to initiate as many infrastructure projects as planned. Certain grants, funding sources and other revenue from years past may not be as available in the foreseeable future.

The city is planning to allocate $2.5 million for facilities maintenance reserve, which will include money for street repair, the animal shelter and other local projects

that need immediate attention.

However, the city’s sales and property tax revenues have been hitting 5- to 10year highs. Out of the shadow of the 2008 recession, the city has been able to generate much more from property taxes due to more homes being built in Marblehead and increased assessed values.

Currently the city is projecting about $4.7 million negative gap between general fund revenues and expenditures. Revenues are expected to be $63.3 million and expenditures are predicted to be $68 million, but adjustments will likely be made before it is adopted. There are other ways to balance out areas of the budget with specific reserves, but the fiscally conservative nature of San Clemente will likely find other ways to close that gap.

Pension costs for public safety have been a topic of discussion since last fall when it was announced the city will be paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in increases next year with incremental increases in following years to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) and Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA). OCFA’s contract will rise 4.5 percent, and OCSD’s contract cost will rise 2.9 for fiscal year 2017-18.

Other discussions during the meeting included budgeting for Beaches, Parks and Recreation Department, which can change with Council discretion fairly quickly, as was seen with the Ole Hanson Beach Club the last few years before its completion.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Beaches, Parks and Recreation Master Plan is being constructed at this time, and should give the city a better spending roadmap in those areas. The budget is scheduled to be considered for adoption at the June 6 City Council meeting. —EH

Camp Pendleton Fire Department Receives Accolades from DoD

THE LATEST: On May 17, the Department of Defense announced its annual fire and emergency services awards for exceptional performances last year.

Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base’s fire department was named Fire Department of the Year (large category). According to a document from the DoD, Camp Pendleton fire personnel responded to more than 3,700 emergencies, 2,100 rescues, 182 wildland fires and more. Their efforts helped save the federal government $3 million in fuel reduction costs, according to the document.

WHAT’S NEXT: To view the DoD document, click on the link in this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. —Staff

Former and current military personnel will speak at the Memorial Day events in San Clemente on May 29 at the San Clemente Community Center and Park Semper Fi. Photo: File

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, May 22

DISTURBANCE Avenida Pico, 900 Block (8:24 p.m.) Someone was going in and out of Walmart and told the caller to “come outside.”

DRUNK DRIVING Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (2:43 p.m.) A man in an orange Ford pickup truck was seen drinking alcohol and driving toward North Beach.

PETTY THEFT Avenida Pico, 900 Block (2:30 p.m.) A man was caught stealing wallets in the store. The line got disconnected before the caller could provide more details.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Cornelio, 100 Block (1:48 p.m.) A man and a woman, who appeared to be in their 80s, were in an argument. The man was holding a beer bottle while sitting in the back seat.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 1300 Block (1:09 p.m.) A man said another man in the middle of the road on El Camino Real, wearing a mechanic’s shirt was carrying a crowbar and standing outside the caller’s vehicle. The man said he wasn’t sure if he was going to break into his vehicle.

Sunday, May 21

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Vista Montana, 200 Block (12:11 a.m.) Police were called to a man in an all-black Ford Mustang with an interior light on. A man who called said they heard a conversation that included talking about guns and paraphernalia. The caller said the car had been parked there for 30 minutes, and when he shined a flashlight inside the man became argumentative.

WELFARE CHECK Avenida Barcelona/Ola Vista (12:29 a.m.) Police were called to an apparently drunken woman wearing all black. The caller said the woman ran into their trashcans and went across the street and ran into a light pole and fell.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESS Plaza Estival, 400 Block (1:14 a.m.) The caller said they saw someone break into a vehicle.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Pico/Calle de los Molinos (4:09 p.m.) A man was standing in front of the business screaming and yell-

ing at people.

DISTURBANCE Marquita, 200 Block (4:20 a.m.) A patrol check was conducted in a ravine for homeless people who were being loud and “getting out of control,” and this had been an ongoing issue, the caller said.

DISTURBANCE Camino San Clemente/El Camino Real (7:08 p.m.) People fishing on the beach were reportedly letting their litter “wash away in the waves.”

Saturday, May 20

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Pico, 600 Block (11:22 p.m.) A caller saw several juveniles laying in the bed of a truck in the McDonald’s parking lot. The caller said they were concerned because they may be driving around not wearing seatbelts.

PATROL CHECK Paseo Luna, 0 Block (10:39 p.m.) Police were called to three juveniles near the pool area who were urinating in the middle of the street. The caller said the young people were drunk and yelling at residents.

PROWLER Avenida Victoria, 100 Block (10:28 p.m.) A woman said a man jumped onto her back patio and she could still hear movement in the backyard.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES

Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (10:13 p.m.) A man and a woman in a Toyota Camry parked near the beach were allegedly “cooking up heroin,” the caller said. The caller said they saw them from a remote location and saw the woman holding paraphernalia.

DISTURBANCE Via Pico Plaza, 0 Block (9:51 p.m.) At Stuft Pizza, the caller said a man was inside the restroom refusing to leave. The caller said the man tried to lure a child into the restroom, but he did not provide any further details.

RECKLESS DRIVING Calle del Cerro, Avenida La Pata (9:36 p.m.) Police were called for the drivers of a motorcycle and a gold Honda Civic in a road rage incident. The motorcyclist continued to “jump off his bike and punch the windows of the Honda.” The two vehicles then sped up the road of Calle del Cerro.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Calle Puente, 800 Block (3:02 a.m.) A 30-year-old woman was reportedly experiencing alcohol poisoning. Multiple people were talking on the phone and sounded either drunk or on drugs.

Friday, May 19

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Acebo Lane, 300 Block (9:06 p.m.) Police responded to a loud party, where the son of the owner of the home said he invited several friends

over, but someone had sent out a mass text and about 200 kids from high school showed up. The son who called said the party had gotten out of hand and gave police permission to enter the home and remove any unwelcome people.

Thursday, May 18

DISTURBANCE Avenida Talega, 800 Block (9:43 p.m.) A man at the Ralphs in Talega attempted to steal beer and returned to the same location. The man was possibly already drunk and dropped a 12-pack of beer.

STOLEN VEHICLE El Camino Real, 1600 Block (9:34 p.m.) At Ocean Auto Sales, a woman said the front door had been smashed open and a vehicle was stolen from the lot. The suspect was believed to be in his 30s, 5 foot 10, medium build, and was wearing a ski mask when he committed the crime. The car that was taken was a silver Ford Explorer.

WELFARE CHECK Mariposa, 100 Block (6:03 p.m.) A woman said she thought her neighbors were hitting their children and that a man inside the home was drunk. The woman said she saw him slap a child and the children were crying.

DISTURBANCE Mariposa, 100 Block (5:58 p.m.) A woman said a neighbor was breaking her possessions, stole her possessions and the neighbor’s “homeless boyfriend” who was living on the driveway in the backyard was argumentative and refused to leave.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES

Calle Tortuga/Calle Guijarro (1:49 p.m.) Someone was flying a drone over the caller’s home while she was sunbathing, and she said it was creepy.

Wednesday, May 17

DISTURBANCE Calle Redondel, 100 Block (6:29 p.m.) Juveniles were on the patio throwing oranges at people on the street below.

Tuesday, May 16

ILLEGAL PARKED VEHICLE W. Escalones/Calle Puente (5:02 p.m.) The caller said a gray Honda was parked in a red zone, “Like they own that spot,” which has been an ongoing issue

DISTURBANCE Marquita, 100 Block (3:55 p.m.) A man in the alley was walking into traffic and blocking it for 30 minutes. The man was described to be in his 30s, wearing a black leather jacket and white socks, as well as a “radio in his face.”

DISTURBANCE Avenida Del Mar, 200 Block (3:36 p.m.)A woman said her friend’s vehicle was blocked by another man’s vehicle. The man blocking the woman’s friend didn’t believe he had a handicap placard, but she said he did.

Community Meetings

SUNDAY, MAY 28

DEL MAR FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar.

MONDAY, MAY 29

MEMORIAL DAY—CITY OFFICES CLOSED

TUESDAY, MAY 30

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.

JOINT COUNCIL/COMMISSIONS/ COMMITTEES MEETING

7-9 p.m. City Council and the various commissions and committees of the city will convene for the annual joint meeting. San Clemente Golf Course, Wedgewood Banquet Room, 150 Avenida Magdalena. 949.361.8200. 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.

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (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, MAY 31

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.

NORTH BEACH FARMERS MARKET

3-6:30 p.m. The Market at North Beach features vendors of food, jewelry and other wares, and there could be live music. 1501 N. El Camino Real.

www.sanclementetimes.com

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

Outlets at San Clemente Hosts Fashion Show Featuring Summer 2017 Trends

The Outlets at San Clemente hosted more than 200 guests and Elite Rewards loyalty members at a private Summer Love Fashion Show and VIP Party on Thursday, May 11, to preview summer trends from luxury designers.

Guests enjoyed a complete fashion show experience, beginning with a private reception in the center’s exclusive VIP Lounge, followed by a runway presentation and in-store after parties.

San Clemente Grad Night Parent Alumni Volunteer

The Grad Night Committee is planning an SCHS Grad Night Parent Alumni Volunteer Day from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, May 27. Grad Night will be providing the famous taco stand, from football games to feed the volunteers lunch, no charge. The night is an opportunity to reconnect and catch up with one another and each other’s families, while helping put together the scene for the 2017 graduates for their last party on campus. For more information, call 949.412.3934.

Bella Collina, USMC to Host Golf Fundraiser for Shark Attack Victim

Bella Collina San Clemente will partner with Camp Pendleton’s School of Infantry (West) to organize a golf tournament fundraiser in support of Leanne Ericson, who was attacked by a shark three weeks ago at San Onofre State Beach.

Register by calling 760.725.7807 or via email at michael.dittamo@usmc.mil. Free green fees with a minimum donation of $25 for military and uniformed personnel and $50 for non-military.

The tournament is Monday, June 5, at 1 p.m. Bella Collina San Clemente is located at 200 Avenida La Pata. More information can be found at www.bellacollinasanclemente.com.

SCARWF Provides Baby Shower at Camp Pendleton

San Clemente Area Republican Women, Federated (SCARWF) brought Operation Baby Shower to 22 expectant mothers at the Deluz Base Housing Community of

Camp Pendleton.

Fifteen members of SCARWF arrived on May 18 with food and a layette box for each attendee containing a handmade quilt, three onesies and an outfit, a receiving blanket, a toy, teething ring, pacifier and a hooded bath towel. In addition, each attendee received a package of diapers, an orchid plant and a special “mother’s gift.”

The raffle prizes and door prizes included 12 gift baskets and bags, a baby stroller, a baby swing and a bounce chair.

Coral Thrift Shop Awards $50k to High School Graduates

Since 1964, Coral Thrift Shop’s all-volunteer staff and the hundreds of donors and clientele who support their mission have donated nearly $3 million to local youth organizations, according to a press release from the thrift shop.

This year, Coral awarded 25 scholarships to students of $2,000 each in memory of longtime landlord, dear friend and extraordinary supporter, Robert Brooks.

The 2017 scholarship recipients from San Clemente High School are Makenzie Bradley, Jose Carlos de Jesus Juarez, Kurt

2017 South Orange County Job Fair

The County of Orange will host a job fair from 9 a.m.-noon on Thursday, June 1, at the Laguna Hills Mall, located at 24155 Laguna Hills Mall. Admission and parking are free. At the fair, people can receive free resume critiquing. Professional attire is requested. For more information, call 949.341.8000 or visit www.oconestop.com or www.ocboard.org.

Elks Gratitude Grant

Awarded to San Clemente Military Family Outreach

San Clemente Elks Lodge No. 2068 awarded a $2,000 “Elks Gratitude Grant” to the San Clemente Military Family Outreach program during Mary’s Feast. The grant was awarded to the organization for its assistance to local military families. “The program is one recognized in our community that is vital for our military support for groceries, babies’ formula, infant clothing, dental treatment, diapers, school supplies, gas and car repairs,” according to a press release from the Elks Lodge. The grant was awarded at the Elks Lodge on May 12.

Local Artist Paints Horse Statues for Breeders’ Cup

Crapo, Emily Glaser, Matthew Hooper, Kira Jan, Kimberly Jimenez, Ily Macpherson, Jonathan Magaña, Jaxon Martinez, Yesenia Martinez, Madison McVicar, Roberto Medrano, Victor Mendoza, Michael Olmos, Michael Rinehart, Yareli Sanchez, Karen Sanchez, Brooke Visagie and Lauren Woodstra.

Walk with a Purpose Raises $8,000 for Charity

On Saturday, May 20, about a dozen local San Clemente and Ladera Ranch residents came together to walk a marathon, 26.2 miles, for “Walk with a Purpose” to raise money for the local charity Acres of Love in San Juan Capistrano. The charity’s mission is to rescue orphans and maintain families. The charity does work in South Africa by caring for orphaned and abandoned children, many of whom suffer from a variety of illnesses including some children living with HIV. The children are placed into “forever homes” and given the care and love they need to thrive.

The walk raised more than $8,000, all of which goes to directly toward care for children.

For more information, visit www.acresoflove.org.

San Clemente resident Mark Harman has designed colorful horse statues he paints for the Breeders’ Cup at the Del Mar Racetrack from November 3-4. Harman is a San Clemente resident for over 50 years and graduated from San Clemente High School in 1970. He is a selftaught artist who uses acrylic paint. The horses are more than 7 feet tall.

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

Luxury Mall showcased their coveted designs from top Italian designers, including Cavalli, La Perla, Prada and Versace during Outlets at San Clemente’s private Summer Love Fashion Show and VIP Party on Thursday, May 11, where more than 200 guests previewed summer trends. Photo: Courtesy of Outlets at San Clemente

The marathon walk “Walk with a Purpose” raised more than $8,000 for the local charity Acres of Love. Photo: Courtesy

Mark Harman’s colorful horse statues will be on display at the Breeders’ Cup at the Del Mar Racetrack from November 3-4. Photo: Courtesy

Hundreds Gather to Discuss Life ‘Under the Flight Path’

OC supervisors host town hall covering changes in flight patterns, noise over South Orange County

BY ALLISON JARRELL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

More than 500 concerned South Orange County residents crowded into Laguna Niguel City Hall on May 15 to voice their concerns and hear what Orange County supervisors and John Wayne Airport staff had to say about the recent flight path changes and increase in aviation noise over South County.

Orange County Supervisors Lisa Bartlett and Todd Spitzer hosted the town hall meeting—“South Orange County: Under the Flight Path”—in conjunction with John Wayne Airport and the city of Laguna Niguel. The purpose was to address residents’ concerns regarding plane noise while also presenting information on the Federal Aviation Association’s Next Generation Air Transportation System and the newly implemented Southern California Metroplex project.

The two-hour forum also included a question-and-answer portion, where members of the panel answered questions submitted by those in attendance.

In addition to Bartlett and Spitzer, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher was in attendance, as well as staff from John Wayne Airport.

Representatives from Rep. Darrell Issa’s office, Sen. Pat Bates’ office and Assemblyman Bill Brough’s office attended the forum, as well as officials from the cities of San Juan Capistrano, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Mission Viejo, Laguna Hills and Aliso Viejo. FAA officials declined an invitation to the meeting.

The FAA is currently in the process of implementing its Next Generation Air Transportation System and Southern California Metroplex project, which utilize a GPS and satellite-based system that has changed flight plans and altitudes of air traffic across the nation. The change to a satellite-based system was called for by Congress back in 2003 in an effort to improve the safety and efficiency of flights.

But the flight path changes to and from John Wayne Airport have become a source of stress for some South Orange County residents who say the air traffic has become much noisier and is negatively impacting their quality of life.

The cities of Laguna Beach and Newport Beach have sued the FAA over the NextGen flight changes, claiming that the FAA’s review of the possible environmental impacts to the surrounding area was insufficient. (The FAA found that there would be “no significant impact” from the flight changes). The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to join the city of Newport Beach’s suit against the FAA.

A grassroots advocacy group called Citizens for No Plane Noise recently presented information at a San Juan Capistrano City Council meeting, presenting data that shows a significant increase in commercial jets flying at 4,000 to 6,000 feet altitude over land from 2016 to 2017. Residents from San Juan, San Clemente, Dana Point and Laguna Niguel have reported experiencing increased airplane noise over their homes as early as 3:15 a.m. and as late as midnight, due to cross-traffic from San Diego and Los Angeles.

The San Juan City Council voted on May 16 to send a complaint about the increased airplane noise to the FAA. Mayor Kerry Ferguson also noted that she is working with area officials to schedule a similar town hall meeting in San Juan.

Bartlett told the packed auditorium on May 15 that she recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with Orange County’s congressional delegation, as well as FAA officials in order to relay the concerns of South County residents. Bartlett called the meeting “very successful,” saying that the main issue seems to be airplanes taking an early turn, which causes the flights to fly over land at a lower altitude than before. Bartlett also acknowledged that cross-traffic is an issue from San Diego, Los Angeles and Long Beach and from private aircraft.

Bartlett asked FAA officials if it would be possible to direct air control not to allow early turns unless they’re for safety purposes. She said they agreed to look into it, saying it was “probably” doable.

Supervisor Spitzer said he believes that airlines are having planes fly lower to save fuel and time.

“We are not going to tolerate time savings and fuel savings at the cost of our communities,” he added.

“The fix to this whole problem is actually very simple, but it’s a matter of keeping vocal—they need to know that we’re really serious down here in South Orange County,” Bartlett concluded.

For residents interested in tracking flights and compiling data, John Wayne staff recommended using John Wayne Airport’s VOLANS software, which can be found at www.ocair.com/communityrelations/flighttracking.

For information on the FAA’s NextGen program, visit www.faa.gov/nextgen.

Residents can also contact the FAA’s aviation noise ombudsman directly by sending an email to 9-awa-noiseombudsman@faa.gov or by calling the FAA’s complaint department at 202.267.3521. SC

SOAPBOX SC

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Lew’s Views by Lew Avera

Our Powerful Population in Orange County

Recently, there has been much statistical information in local newspapers regarding Orange County and its similarities and differences with the state of California and the United States. I found this extremely interesting, having been involved in civic and governmental activities at both the Orange County and San Clemente levels. I can remember evaluating some of the factors as far back as 12 years ago.

We live literally tucked away here in beautiful San Clemente with our many amenities and comfortable way of life. For any number of reasons, most of us probably have no perspective of how Orange County and San Clemente actually “fit together” or are “related” in a broader sense. This is not a negative conclusion but rather reflects on our satisfaction with our wonderful way of life in these difficult times around the world. Actually, we are part of one of the most powerful counties in the United States and for our very small physical size we have, arguably, one of the most amazing economic counties in the entire United States.

Orange County has a population of 3.2 million people. That statistic alone has very little meaning; however, it represents 8 percent of the approximate 40 million

population of California, and it is the same population size as our next door neighbor, San Diego County. This takes on even greater significance when compared with all counties across the entire United States. In terms of population, San Diego and Orange counties stand as the fi fth and sixth largest counties in all of the United States. Los Angeles is the largest followed by Cook County Illinois (Chicago), a county in New Jersey next to New York City, and the county in Texas around Dallas and Fort Worth. What is even more astonishing is Orange County’s relatively small geographical size compared to Los Angeles and San Diego Counties and its other neighbors, Riverside and San Bernadino counties. What’s also astonishing is Orange County has no large metropolitan city, as is the case of the other large counties mentioned above. Our largest city is Santa Ana with a population of just more than 400,000, followed by Anaheim and Irvine. San Clemente is one of 34 incorporated cities in Orange County with a population of some 65,000. This represents about

GUEST OPINION: Barlett Bulletin by Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

The FAA Needs to Hear us above the Plane Noise

If you have noticed more planes flying directly over your home, you are not alone. There have been recent changes made to flight paths over South Orange County by the Federal Aviation Administration. Earlier this year, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)—the entity with exclusive authority over the nation’s navigable airspace—implemented changes to the flight paths for planes flying to and from John Wayne Airport. The changes altered historical flight paths directly through South Orange County. And as a result, many residents have started to complain about increased airplane noise.

Because of the increasing number of complaints, I hosted a public forum last week to provide the community with background information about the process that led the FAA to change the flight paths and provide an avenue for our community to voice our concerns.

For background, in 2003 Congress called for the development of the Next Generation Air Transportation System, or NextGen to

improve aviation safety and efficiency. The cornerstone of NextGen is the transition from a ground-based air traffic control system to one that is satellite-based. This transition causes many flight paths, particularly those involving take-offs, to be more concentrated.

These changes were sought to improve the efficiency and safety of air traffic in the region, certainly an objective with good merit. However, in doing so the FAA has completely ignored the impact to the quality of life for those in the altered flight paths in South Orange County.

In an effort to find some measure of relief from the noise caused by the FAA changes, my colleagues and I on the Orange County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to challenge the FAA’s ‘Finding of No Significant Impact’ and their ‘Record of Decision.’ Additionally, I went to Washington D.C. to personally meet with Orange County’s congressional delegation and officials from the FAA to voice the concerns from constituents regarding

2 percent of the county’s population, and compared to other cities in the county, is a “median” city. Half of the cities in the county are larger and half of the cities are smaller. There is so much more to say about this subject. Population is just one factor, but what about economic activity, wealth, growth, future changes, happiness and satisfaction of the people? There just isn’t space to cover all of these in a single edition so they will be covered in the next edition.

In closing this chapter, I want to emphasize that the focus here has been on Orange County. Of course, this has little meaning until we relate it to our own lives and expectations locally here in San Clemente. This will be part of the next article; however, I think having the broader perspective expands our ability to put our lives in San Clemente in perspective.

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

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.

the negative impact of NextGen’s new flight path changes.

The cities of Newport Beach and Laguna Beach filed lawsuits against the FAA on similar grounds.

The court has granted the County’s petition to intervene in the City of Newport Beach’s lawsuit, and the County will be working with these cities as litigation moves forward.

Because only the Federal government has jurisdiction over flights, I encourage residents to share your concern by directly contacting your congressional representative and the FAA. The FAA’s Aviation Noise Ombudsman can be reached at 202.267.3521 or via email at 9-AWA-NoiseOmbudsman@faa.gov.

It can be difficult to get the federal government to change their policy once implemented. However together, with as many South Orange County voices as possible, our concerns will be heard, and we will be successful to affect change. SC

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.

CITY EDITOR

Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com

SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com

DISTRIBUTION

RACKS,

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

PUBLISHER

EDITORIAL

City Editor,

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch

> Allison Jarrell

Sports Editor

> Steve Breazeale

Special Projects Editor

> Andrea Papagianis

ART/DESIGN

Art Director > Jasmine Smith

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Real Estate Sales Manager

> Michele Reddick

OPERATIONS

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

SPECIAL THANKS

Robert Miller

Jonathan Volzke

CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Bianco

Debra Holm

Tim Trent

Jake Howard

LEW’S VIEWS By Lew Avera

THE BARTLETT BULLETIN By Lisa Bartlett

Letters to the Editor

HIGH FIVES FROM OUR PEERS

NORB GARRETT, publisher of the San Clemente Times

On Saturday afternoon, May 20, in a Santa Monica beachfront hotel, our peers in the California Newspaper Publishers Association (CNPA) recognized the best achievements in journalism in the great state of California over the past year. From small weeklies with circulation under 4,000 to large dailies with more than 150,000, the best in newspaper journalism over the past year was recognized for achievements in writing, photography, design, digital and video excellence. For the second straight year, editorial staff from Picket Fence Media (PFM)—publishers of the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch—won awards for excellence in journalism over the past year. Needless to say, as the owner and publisher of PFM, this recognition makes me exceptionally proud of our team. Our dedicated staff works hard to keep our communities informed, and it’s a great honor to receive recognition from our peers for their efforts.

This year we earned five second-place awards: Allison Jarrell (The Capistrano Dispatch city editor) earned two awards for photography (sports action photo and artistic photo), Kristina Pritchett (Dana Point Times city editor) took one for her coverage of local government, sports editor Steve Breazeale earned an award for his Capistrano Dispatch special section high school football preview and SC Times city editor Eric Heinz and group managing editor Matt Cortina earned an award for the SC Times’ special section previewing the 2016 election. Supporting all of the editors at PFM is our extremely talented graphic design director, Jasmine Smith, whose creative direction helps make all of our products look awardwinning.

Congratulations, team, on a job well done!

CUSD CLASSES PREPARE STUDENTS FOR AMBITIONS

PATRICIA HOLLOWAY, M.C.P., District 3

Trustee, Capistrano Unified School District

The Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) is a well-regarded and influential school district in California. It’s the fifth largest and highest performing large district in the state, with a $460 million annual budget and a staff of 3,800 at 63 school facilities. While our sevenmember board serves all 50,000 district students in pre-K through high school, my focus is on the 10 schools and nearly

10,000 students in our Spanish Village by the Sea.

City founder Ole Hanson built our first school, Las Palmas Elementary, in 1927, making it the oldest school in CUSD at 90 years. Bernice Ayer was the first teacher there, and her name now graces our middle school in Forster Ranch. San Clemente High, at 52 years old, is the oldest high school in the district, and no one disputes that we have the most school pride. Not only is SCHS an athletic powerhouse on the field, in dance, and on the water, but a high proportion of our students are enrolled in a broad range of collegelevel Advance Placement (AP) courses. San Clemente is also home to the highly competitive International Baccalaureate (IB) Program that grants students who complete the program help with getting accepted at any number of universities worldwide (think Oxford University or the Sorbonne).

We all want excellence in our schools where students can achieve their true potential under the tutelage of experienced, highly trained and caring teachers. I’m in support of several programs designed by the CUSD to excite young people and improve educational outcomes for students. One program, known as CapoForward, is investing resources into eight elementary schools in CUSD, two of which are in San Clemente at Lobo and Marblehead elementary schools. Lobo’s “Academy of Innovation” features hands-on innovation labs, an engineering boot-camp and a dedicated art studio. Marblehead Elementary’ s “Environmental Studies Academy” engages students in the natural environment with an outdoor classroom, school garden, weather center and a strong partnership with the Ocean Institute.

To better prepare our high school students for the “working world,” CUSD has developed an impressive array of career technical education (CTE) courses for any

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, May 26 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso

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.

group, I was given the honor to deliver the dedication speech at the ground-breaking ceremony for the 241 in March of 1986.

From the beginning, building the 241 behind the south county cities was the only logical route to bypass the San Juan Capistrano/San Clemente gridlock, which has been getting worse over the past five years.

student to pursue—whether he or she is headed for college or a job after graduation. Internships with local businesses and industries provide students with real-world experience they can list on their resumes and knowledge they can use to inform their college decisions and career objectives.

At San Clemente High School, for example, students may enroll in robotics, law, business management, medical technology or cyber security. Students may also attend classes of interest at other high school campuses in architectural design, sports medicine, teaching or culinary arts and receive credit. Studies show that students who complete CTE courses are more likely to graduate from high school, more likely to graduate from college and more likely to be hired in the field they have chosen. These are outcomes we can all celebrate.

As we enter the final stretch of the 2016-17 school year, I want to thank the residents and businesses of San Clemente for their continued support of San Clemente students. We remain committed to their success throughout their educational careers and in their lives beyond our classrooms.

For more information about career technical education, go to www.ccadvantage.org

To reach me with your questions or comments, send your email to paholloway@capousd.org.

241 BOONDOGGLE

RON GREEK, San Clemente

Having been a part of the development of the Orange County toll roads since 1984, I was shocked at the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) abandoning of the Camp Pendleton southern connection to Interstate 5. As chairman of the Saddleback Area Coordinating Council (SACC), a south county regional planning

To consider any 241 connecting route into San Juan or San Clemente is ridiculous and will make our current traffic disaster much worse. Much of the engineering and environmental studies have been completed on the Camp Pendleton connection, and it should be noted that this route will not damage either the Trestles surf break or the San Mateo Campground. By signing an agreement with the Surfrider Foundation and other environmental groups in agreement that the TCA will not build south of San Clemente city limit, they have rendered themselves useless to the completion of the 241. Not only agreeing to not build south of the San Clemente city limit, they agreed to establish a $28 million conservation fund with our money for the opposition groups in exchange for never opposing any route through San Clemente or San Juan. The 13 locally elected city and county officials who make up the TCA board of directors and who voted to allow this boondoggle must and will be held accountable at election time.

It is time for the TCA to fold up their tent, close down, and turn this over to another agency, such as the Orange County Transportation Authority and the federal government, and let them finish what we started 33 years ago. Maybe the TCA chairman and his board haven’t heard we have a new pro-infrastructure administration in Washington, D.C., which can override any local commission opposition with the stroke of a pen, the Dakota Access Pipeline is proof of that. Our congressman Darrell Issa could make this happen.

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.

www.sanclementetimes.com

From left, Picket Fence Media staff members sports editor Steve Breazeale, Dana Point Times editor Kristina Pritchett, The Capistrano Dispatch editor Allison Jarrell and San Clemente Times editor Eric Heinz all received awards at the 2017 California Newspaper Publishers Association’s Better Newspaper Contest on May 20 in Santa Monica. Photo: Alyssa Garrett

GETTING OUT SC

San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 25

LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS

8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens volunteers, students and teachers at the Montanez Adobe inside Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano. Help care for and maintain native plants and butterflies while enjoying a little dirt therapy and friendship. Every Thursday. No experience needed. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

CASINO SPRING JAZZ SERIES

6:30-9:30 p.m. The next installment of the Casino San Clemente’s Spring Jazz Series will feature Elizabeth Lamers with guitarist Steve Cotter and pianist Gary Matsumoto. Admission is $10 for just the music, or $25 for a ticket that includes choice of dinner. 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.369.6600. www.springjazzseries. brownpapertickets.com.

YAPPY HOUR

5-8 p.m. Head to Yappy Hour with your four-legged friend to enjoy treats for the dogs and wine for the adults. Proceeds from the event benefit the Veterans Initiative of Canine Compassions for Independence. Yappy Hour is held the fourth Thursday of the month from May through October. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point.

Friday | 26

SHACC SURF CLUB DISPLAY

11 a.m.-4 p.m. The exhibit is a history of surf clubs, starting with the Hui Nalu and the Outrigger Canoe Clubs through today and features members from the “Coalition

EDITOR’S PICK

FRIDAY, MAY 26:

SAN CLEMENTE TROLLEY RIBBON CUTTING

10 a.m. The city of San Clemente and City Council will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the launch of the new Summer Trolley Program, which will run from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. This is also the location of the first trolley stop on the trolley route. Stick around after the ceremony to jump on the trolley at noon and be one of the first to ride through town. Download the app, SC Trolley, or visit www.sctrolley.com.

of Surfing Clubs.” Each participating club has been given a 5-foot by 8-foot space to show their history and decorate as they see fit. Visitors to SHACC will be asked to vote on their favorite display, and a winner will be announced at the end of the exhibit in June. Admission: $5. 110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente. 949.388.0313. www.surfingheritage.org.

ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE

5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

LIVE THEATER: MORE… SENIOR MOMENTS

8 p.m. When elderly Rose catches her husband with another woman in the nurs-

ing home, she decides to go on a quest for sexual adventure. The show continues through June 11. Tickets are $20. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

LIVE MUSIC: FELISHA

8-11 p.m. Listen to live music from Felisha at Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

Saturday | 27

FRIENDS OF THE DANA POINT HEADLANDS CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

10 a.m. The Friends of the Dana Point Headlands invites families to join the children’s program at the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. The program is held the fourth Saturday of the month.

At the Movies: ‘The Lovers’ is Lovely

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Aromantic comedy these days is hard to come by, let alone one that is appealing and well-made. This is especially true of rom-coms made with older actors for older audiences, save for Nancy Meyers’ comedies. There are no William Powell/Myrna Loy or Tom Hanks/Meg Ryan pairings to sell movies anymore since the genre has fizzled in popularity, so when a rom-com is released nowadays, it’s a novelty. But The

Lovers is fortunately fresh and mostly lighthearted, and not just for older people.

Longtime married couple Michael (Tracy Letts) and Mary (Debra Winger) are both simultaneously having affairs behind each other’s backs, have become strangers in their own lives and are more dedicated to their side partners. One morning, they realize they might actually still be attracted to each other and in love. But Mary and Michael need to figure out what they want to do with their marriage quickly before their

Kids will learn about the natural world in a hands-on way. For reservations, email friendsoftheheadlands@cox.net. Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. 949.248.3527.

BIOLUMINESCENCE NIGHT CRUISE

8-10 p.m. Hop aboard the Ocean Institute’s R/V Sea Explorer to witness marine birds, sea lions, and bioluminescent plankton. A net will drop down 600 feet to capture these creatures. Cost is $24-$45. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org.

ROSE CARE

8 a.m. The class will help you keep those blooms in your garden all summer. Experts will cover deadheading, feeding and general care for healthy roses. Armstrong Garden Centers. 32382 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.6666. www.armstronggarden.com.

REPLACE YOUR LAWN WORKSHOP: PLANT SELECTIONS-GARDENING WITH DESERT PLANTS

9:30-10:30 a.m. Tree of Life’s Kevin Alison will give a talk on the plants of the state’s deserts, the evolution of desert habitats and more. Tree of Life Nursery. 33201 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. 949.728.0685. www.californianativeplants.com.

Sunday | 28

GUIDED NATURE HIKE

8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park. Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

SHARK SEARCH TRIP

11 a.m. Join Dana Wharf aboard the OCeanAdventures Catamaran and search for great whites, mako, thresher, blue and hammerhead sharks during a two-hour (Cont. on page 13)

college student son Joel (Tyler Ross) and his girlfriend Erin (Jessica Sula) visit home for the weekend.

Melora Walters and Aiden Gillen co-star as Michael’s mistress and Mary’s lover, respectively. The Lovers is a quality indie romcom that has a quaint, clever theme and perfect tone for a date or mellow afternoon. Mandy Hoffman composes a wondrous, sweeping score that is romantic, but not too overbearing. Writer-director Jacobs of the TV series Doll & Em (2013-15) uses the

Photo: Eric Heinz

right amount of humor and seriousness that’s appropriate for the story, and it’s nice to see Winger back in a lead role again. SC

Photo: Courtesy of A24

NEW

It’s been a long day at the offi ce. You get home at 7:30 p.m. and root around through the refrigerator for leftovers. You pour a glass of wine. You fl op on the couch and wake up your dog. And just as you go to take a bite of your dinner, just after you turn on Netfl ix, you hear your phone twinkle. You know who it is. Rather, you know what it is: Work.

Navigating life in the modern age can be diffi cult. Connected to everything, it’s hard to know when you’re allowed to disconnect, to take time for yourself. To fi gure that out is to fi nd balance in your life.

In this year’s A New You, we included stories to help you fi nd that balance in your life. You’ll read about the nature and history of the balanced life, and how keeping things in proportion affects all areas of your life.

There are features on how to fi nd balance through sleeping and exercise. You’ll learn about old-school health remedies, how you can better balance your nutrition and what the fuss is about concierge doctors.

Lastly, you’ll see stories about how to proactively take steps to achieve balance—local nature hikes, listening to productive podcasts and fi nding how to strike a work-life balance.

There’s never a better time than right now to seek out balance in your life and to create a new you. Open the pages and start exploring.

PeacePaths to

When we choose to actively participate in the environmental beauty right outside our doorstep, we are embarking on a journey that encourages reflection and invites a sense of balance into our lives.

For some, “natural” and “balanced” may not be the first adjectives that come to mind when discussing getting into nature in Orange County. But it is ubiquitous and all around us and that tapping into it may hold the key to discovering our inner peace.

Considering the often overwhelming complexity of modern society, it is understandable that we often find ourselves yearning for a simplified experience to counter-balance our sophisticated lifestyles. Through this pattern, however, we often find ourselves ping-ponging back and forth between the familiarity of routine and the relief of escape.

“We truly live in the land of confluence,” stated Melanie Schlotterbeck of Friends of Harbors, Beaches, and Parks, “Here in South Orange County, simply by stepping

outside, you are inevitably stepping into a natural intersection. Like few other places on earth, we have it all. You can literally taste the salt air from the mountain tops.” South Orange County’s natural spaces have many unique aspects that inspire an awakening to the natural balance that is important to prioritize in our lives, therefore relieving ourselves of the anxious quest to find it.

Cristianitos Trails San

Clemente

The San Onofre State Park trail system is the most visited in California, but it is possibly also one of the most underutilized. By following the path of the San Mateo Watershed, the last completely untapped watershed in the state of California, pure sea-to-summit experiences are attainable in south San Clemente. From the San Onofre Bluffs and the worldrenowned beaches of Trestles, a series of uninterrupted trails cross the Old Pacific

Finding balance through nature in South Orange County

Highway and meander along the San Mateo Valley. Viewing the 9,000-year-old former site of the Acjachemen civilization of Panhe below as you walk along parallel to Cristianitos Road toward the campground at San Mateo State Park, you slowly turn due east along Camp Pendleton’s western border and look directly into the snowcapped peaks of the San Jacinto Mountains. Here, with multiple trails of varying intensity, one can take in the plethora of native plant species before enjoying the jaw-dropping panoramic vistas.

For more information, visit San Onofre Parks Foundation website at www.sanonofreparksfoundation.org or stop by any of the local State Park kiosks.

Las Ramblas Trail

San Juan Capistrano/Dana Point

Possibly the most accessible of the bunch, the Las Ramblas Trail begins only minutes from the Interstate 5 exit bearing the same name. Lush after this past winter’s continuous rains, these gently rolling hills offer a wide variety of options for casual walking, running, and mountain biking.

Leisurely alternating from crest to valley, this is a fantastic opportunity to breathe in some fresh air and relish as to just how tightly knit the different parts of our communities are woven into the environmental fabric. Ultimately, all trails crescendo at panoramic viewpoints that look out upon Capo Beach and Dana Point Harbor to the west and the hills of Laguna to the north.

Caspers Wilderness Park

San Juan Capistrano

As you drive east on Ortega Highway outside of San Juan Capistrano, the approach to Caspers Wilderness Park ushers you into a California of old. Bordered by the National Audubon Starr Ranch Sanctuary to the north, Caspers Wilderness Park offers more than 20 trails in its present day 8,000-acre form. Upon arrival at the entrance, one quickly becomes entrenched in the deep river terraces and impressive sandstone canyons.

Complementing the groves of native Coastal Live Oak and California Sycamores, several late-season wildflower plumes are still there to be enjoyed by those willing to spend time walking on what used to be the floor of the Pacific Ocean. Orange County’s largest County Park, Caspers Wilderness Park offers multi-generational appeal through a variety of educational centers and interactive exhibits.

For more information on Caspers Wilderness Park, contact park officials at 949.923.2210 or visit www.ocparks.com/ caspers.

It has been said that not all those who are happy are grateful, but all those that are grateful are happy. Taking the time to achieve greater depth of understanding and appreciation of the awe-inspiring spaces that surround us may encourage us to consider looking more closely than ever for the personal sense of balance we seek.

Las Ramblas Trail. Photo: Eric Heinz

San Mateo Watershed. Photo: Danny Ritz

Caspers Wilderness Park. Photo: Danny Ritz

Your FocusFinding

Saying

‘no’ and feeling good about it

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS-CAMACHO

With life, as with innovation, focus is about striking a balance. Time blurs easily. Life quickly gets out of focus. Between our many obligations, it isn’t hard to lose sight of what is most important—the elements that bring joy and create harmony in our day-to-day lives.

Do you take on too much? Or find various aspects of your life suffering because you too often say yes?

If so, maybe it’s time to discover the power of no.

As Steve Jobs put it, focus isn’t about always saying yes, but rather about saying no. Our focus comes from editing ideas down, from turning options away and from learning to say, ever so politely, no.

Admittedly, I’m probably the wrong person to be giving advice on the subject.

As I sit down to write, chaos in my life ensues.

The remnants of two weekends away, coupled with an ever-growing to-do list leaves my home in disarray. The car is dirty, folded laundry litters the sofa, suit-

People think focus means saying yes to the thing you’ve got to focus on. But that’s not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. I’m actually as proud of the things we haven’t done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.

—Steve Jobs, Apple Worldwide Developers’ Conference, 1997

cases wait to be unpacked. Thankfully, my children are clean, fed and happy. It’s the basics that really matter.

Here it is: I am a classic over-committer—relentlessly saying yes to family, friends, coworkers and, yes, even to my children. All these yeses come at a cost. I often find myself stressed with my life out of whack and just a little off balance. And why? Because I am afraid of saying no.

I am pathologically accommodating. Not just hesitant to utter the word, but scared of the impact that one little word will have. How will my mother react to us not extending our stay? My friends to turning down yet another night out? Or my boss to not tackling that additional project?

While I may not be able to provide the clarity you are looking for, I can provide comfort—relief in knowing that you are

not alone. There is someone else out there, me, coming into focus.

This is my proposal. Let’s take a cue from my 2-year-old and say, “No!”

I give us permission to be selfish with our time. It’s time to take a step back, prioritize and refocus.

Take time to find balance in saying both yes and no in your personal, professional and social lives. Bring you into focus.

BY VICTOR CARNO

BThe Water Rule of Thumb

alancing one’s health and nutrition is about more than wanting to look better; it’s about feeling better too. Clinical Nutritionist and San Clemente local, Emily Valenzuela, is a specialist in fundamental medicine, in addition to being a California licensed acupuncturist. A scholar in both Eastern and Western medicines, Valenzuela has compiled four easy tips to help balance your nutrition.

Four Tips for Balancing Diet Nutrition

body loses electrolytes and sodium when you sweat, and it is extremely important to replenish what is lost. Some side effects of dehydration include muscle contractions and cramping during physical activity. Secondly, water affects your metabolism. Being well hydrated can actually boost the rate at which you burn calories.

Eating a Paleo Style Diet

“An easy way to remember how much water you should be drinking on a daily basis is to drink half of your body weight in ounces,” Valenzuela said. For example, if you weigh 180 pounds, you should drink 90 ounces of water per day. Water is key in more ways than one. Your

What is Paleo? Most people have heard this term, but are still unclear as to what is and what isn’t considered Paleo. Be sure to steer clear of starches, refined oils and processed food. Instead, look for lean meats and seafood, while also munching on fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. Valenzuela laid out her ideal meals during the course of a day. “I would start the day with an egg scrambled with some veggies mixed in and maybe some salsa. This is a very clean meal and also offers some variety.” She suggests building a super salad filled with chicken

and vegetables for lunch, and then ending the day with some broccoli, sweet potatoes and a lean cut of chicken. If you still find it confusing to choose healthy options, Valenzuela suggests a service called Sun Basket that will hand pick and deliver an organic, Paleo meal to your front door.

Take Prescribed Vitamins

“A majority of my advice is very specific to my patient,” Valenzuela said. “I highly recommend people check in with their primary care doctor to see what they personally need.” Taking vitamins isn’t as easy as it may appear. Some vitamins will interfere with the purpose of other vitamins; make sure to ask your primary physician how to combine vitamins.

Get Six to Eight Hours of REM Sleep

“It’s important to get to that deep REM sleep. Just being in bed isn’t going to do you much good,” Valenzuela said. Sleep

actually has a lot to do with balancing your diet and nutrition. For example, sleep deprivations plays a huge role in weight gain. When your body doesn’t receive the proper amount of sleep, it releases a stress hormone called cortisol that increases your cravings and appetite. So getting a good night’s rest will help you fight off those midday cravings.

For more tips on balancing your nutrition and diet, visit Valenzuela’s website at www.apointofhealth.com.

Nutritionist , Emily Valenzuela

The Powerof Old-School Health Remedies

BY ALLISON JARRELL

Drug stores and pharmacies are full of quick and easy fixes for what ails you, but sometimes remedies that utilize the healing benefits of nature can be just as effective. Whether they’re from The Old Farmer’s Almanac or wisdom passed down from a parent, natural remedies can save you time and money; don’t be afraid to give them a try before heading to the nearest pharmacy. Below are a few old-school remedies:

SORE THROATS, COLD OR COUGH

o Various mixtures for relieving a cough, include lemon juice sweetened with some sugar, catnip tea, or horehound drops combined with honey or lemon.

o A sore throat can be eased by mixing salt into some warm water and gargling. Boil tap water for a few minutes and let it cool.

o Natural remedies for a cold include lemons, oranges, apple cider and rose hip tea. Ginger root is also good if you have the chills.

o To clear the sinuses, try adding fresh garlic cloves to chicken soup, or eating hot and spicy foods like chili.

o To help prevent or relieve sinus infections, try flushing with a saline solution. A bottle can be purchased at most grocery stores, or you can make your own. Be sure to boil tap water first and then let it cool in order to sterilize it.

o If it’s your stomach that’s bothering you, try drinking chamomile, ginger or peppermint tea.

HOUSEHOLD FIRST AID

o A mixture of salt and water can be used in a multitude of situations. Apply salt water to an insect sting in order to relieve the pain. If you’ve had a brush with poison ivy, you can also soak the affected areas in hot salt water.

o A bee or wasp sting can also be treated by applying ice or a cold pack, followed by a hydrocortisone cream or a mixture of baking soda and water.

o For itchy mosquito bites, try applying a cold compact followed by one of the following: lemon juice, mashed garlic, oatmeal or baking soda paste and water. If the area around the bite isn’t raw, you can also try using white vinegar.

o For a sunburn, natural remedies include: aloe vera leaf, coconut oil or apple cider vinegar. You can also try adding any of the following to a bath to treat a sunburn: lavender

oil, bergamot oil, black or green tea, or peppermint or spearmint tea.

o Witch hazel is one of the most popular natural remedies; it can be used to soothe itchy or painful bug bites,stings, sunburns or abrasions.

ANXIETY AND STRESS

o Chamomile, basil, marjoram, sage or mint teas can help ease stress. It’s best to use about an ounce of fresh herbs for every two to three cups of water. Rosemary tea can also help alleviate depression or melancholy.

o Lavender can be used in a multitude of ways. Lay it in your linen closet to add the scent to your bed sheets, or put a few drops of lavender essential oil under your nose. Natural anxiety relief can also be achieved by massaging your temples with lavender oil.

o A warm bath with a couple drops of chamomile oil can also promote sleep and ease anxiety and stress.

Smartphone Age striking a work-life balance in the

BY ALLISON JARRELL

Odds are, you’ve been there before—a friend or a relative breaks the flow of conversation to look down at their phone after hearing a ping. Perhaps they apologize as they swipe their finger across the screen, but more often than not, you’re simply left staring at them as they begin typing out a text or an email. “I’m sorry, it was a work thing,” they say, finally breaking the silence after two minutes of rapid-fire texting.

Two minutes later, another ping, and another break in the conversation.

The hard truth to swallow is that many of us are the friend or family member in that scenario. When you have a smartphone on you at all times—and you feel the need to attend to its every ping and jingle—any intimate gathering can swiftly becoming a working dinner.

messages or emails from work-related people—such as a boss, co-worker, clients, customers or contractors—you may be more likely to ruminate about work-related issues or worries... When people are really under stress their psychological and physical resources are drained, so they are less likely to selfregulate hostile behaviors and provide sufficient support for their spouse,” Park told Walton.

So what’s the solution? A good step in the right direction may be downloading a phone app (ironic, right?)

The app, called Moment, is currently only available for iPhone, but an Android application is on its way. Moment tracks how much you use your iPhone or iPad every day, and even lets you create daily limits and notifications when you exceed those limits.

the average person checks their phone 150 times during a 16-hour day—

Roughly every

six minutes.

Of the 95 percent of Americans who own a cellphone, 77 percent own smartphones, according to a 2017 Pew Research Center study. That’s up from just 35 percent in 2011. And according to a 2013 study commissioned by Nokia, the average person checks their phone 150 times during a 16-hour day—so roughly every six minutes or so.

Studies have shown that people need time to mentally recharge after work to prepare for the next day.

A 2013 Forbes article by Alice Walton quotes Kansas State University researcher YoungAh Park on that very subject. Park’s study found that communicating with colleagues after work creates stress and prevents the brain from being able to rest.

“If there are any unpleasant text

But if that’s not your style, try starting even smaller.

In a recent New York Times article by Jane Brody titled, “Hooked on Our Smartphones,” author Nancy Colier, who recently wrote the book, The Power of Off, was quoted on the subject of reliance on smartphones. Her tips for cutting back on phone use included making small changes like not using your phone while eating or when you’re out with friends. Colier also suggested making an effort to recognize when your phone use is necessary, versus when it’s merely a habit.

“Become very conscious of what is important to you, what really nourishes you, and devote more time and attention to it,” Colier told Brody.

finding balance through Sleep ZZ Z

BY ALLISON JARRELL

Whether or not you get enough sleep can impact many facets of your health, from your mood to your weight. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adults need at least seven hours of sleep at night, while teens need eight to 10 hours, and school-age children need nine to 12 hours of slumber. Studies show a link between a lack of adequate sleep and the development of serious health issues, such as heart disease, heart attacks, diabetes and obesity. Getting enough sleep can also reduce chronic pain, lower your risk of injury, improve your mood, help with weight control and boost your immune system. Brain feeling fuzzy? Sufficient sleep can boost mental clarity while also improving memory.

And while the amount of sleep a person gets is important, the quality of one’s sleep is also crucial to achieving balance. If you find yourself repeatedly waking up throughout the night or experiencing symptoms of sleep disorders such as snoring or gasping for air, you may want to consult with your physician, or try implementing some of the following sleep habits.

Tips for Achieving Sound Sleep:

1

Avoiding caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and soft drinks may be obvious, but it’s worth noting that chocolate also contains caffeine. One bar of dark chocolate can have about 70 milligrams of caffeine, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s about as much as a cup of green tea. So skip the chocolate snack before bed, or eat a piece of caffeinefree white chocolate instead. Better yet, try fruits like pineapples, oranges and bananas that are good sources of melatonin, a hormone found naturally in the body that promotes sleep.

2

Aromatherapy and other herbal remedies can also prove to be helpful when trying to relax into slumber. Studies show that inhaling lavender oil can relax the body and improve the quality of sleep. Chamomile tea has historically been used as a sleep aid, so enjoy a warm cup before bed.

3 4

Try “unplugging” an hour before bed. That’s right—no phones, computers or other electronics for a full 60 minutes. It may be a challenge, but studies have shown that the blue light from device screens can interrupt your body’s rhythms and suppress melatonin.

And speaking of melatonin—you may want to try a supplement as a short-term solution. According to the CDC, Americans’

use of melatonin more than doubled from 0.6 percent in 2007 to 1.3 percent in 2012, which makes sense when you look at the National Sleep Foundation’s 2011 Sleep in America poll. Of the 1,500 people surveyed, 95 percent said they used an electronic device within an hour before bed a few nights a week. Melatonin pills are available at most pharmacies and grocery stores, but the ideal long-term scenario is to boost your own natural melatonin production. The Institute for Natural Healing recommends adding foods with magnesium to your diet, like almonds, avocados, shrimp tart cherries and spinach.

GivingBlood

donating benefits all

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

Giving blood may be a terrifying thing for some people, but not only does it help save lives, it has added benefits.

The American Red Cross states approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed daily in the U.S., and 13.6 million whole blood and red blood cell units are collected in the U.S. in one year.

That equals a lot of donations.

Whether you’re donating blood because you want to, or because you know it will go to someone who may need it, giving blood is a benefit to all.

“You will help ensure blood is on the shelf when needed. Most people don’t think they’ll ever need blood but many do,” according to the American Red Cross’ website.

According to the Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. You will receive a mini physical before each donation that checks pulse, blood pressure, body temperature and hemoglobin, and you’re able to track your risk for heart disease. As a result, this awareness might lower your risk for heart disease.

According to the Alliance for Natural Health, by giving blood regularly, individuals are able to reduce the risk of a heart attack because the blood viscosity decreases.

The process may take an hour, but what’s 60 minutes when you can help save someone’s life?

To find out more information, or to host a blood drive, visit www.redcross.org or call (800)RED-CROSS.

UPCOMING BLOOD DRIVES:

Friday, May 26

San Clemente Community Center

100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 1-7 p.m. Volunteers can donate blood and power red.*

Tuesday, May 30

Monarch Coast Apartment Homes 32400 Crown Valley Parkway, Dana Point. 1-7 p.m. Volunteers can donate blood and power red.*

Friday, June 9

San Clemente Community Center

100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 1-7 p.m. Volunteers can donate blood.

Sunday, June 11

St. Edwards Catholic Church 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Volunteers can give blood and power red.*

Monday, June 19 Capo Beach Church 25975 Domingo Avenue Capistrano Beach. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers can give blood and power red.*

Thursday, June 22 Pacific Medical 33081 Calle Perfecto, San Juan Capistrano. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Volunteers can donate blood.

Friday, June 23

San Clemente Community Center 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 2-7 p.m. Volunteers can give blood and power red.*

*Power Red donations collect the red cells but most of the plasma and platelets will be returned to the donor. The donor must meet specifically eligible requirements and have type A Negative, B Negative or O Blood.

DANA POINT, SAN CLEMENTE AND SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

More than Just Helping Others

BY KRISTINA PRITCHETT

Whether you’re picking up trash along Southern Orange County’s beaches, helping out at church or lending a hand at a nonprofit, service work helps both the organization, as well as the individual volunteering his or her time.

You may say with your busy schedule it’s not possible, but that’s one of the beauties of volunteering. It’s not meant to be a stressful thing; it’s meant to be an avenue to serve the community in any way that fits into your schedule.

The benefits from volunteering are endless. Not only does it help others in your community, but it can lead to making new friends, getting exercise, learning new skills and can give you a sense of purpose.

According to the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), research indicates that volunteering provides individual health benefits.

“Those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer,” the CNCS wrote.

Think about it, if you’re outside helping clean up the beach, you’re getting exercise which is a health benefit.

According to a United Health Group survey “Doing Good is Good for You,” 76 percent of the people who volunteered said they felt healthier.

The survey also showed volunteering reduces stress and those surveyed said they felt more relaxed and had more energy.

Not only can you feel healthier, but volunteering may allow you to expand your social network by meeting other like-minded individuals.

Volunteering may also lead to a job. According to a CNCS 2013 report, volunteers had an increased likelihood of finding employment for all volunteers regardless of a person’s gender, age, ethnicity, geographical area or the job market conditions.

Throughout the three communities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano there are a variety of ways to get involved. Volunteering can include tutoring, being a coach for a little league team, collecting and donating items or food, engaging in labor and more. The options are endless.

Are you interested in volunteering, but aren’t sure where to begin?

Some ways to learn about opportunities include:

• Call local organizations or nonprofits and ask what help they may need.

• Attend city meetings, or events. Often announcements are made of upcoming fundraisers or events that need volunteers.

• Call your local church .

At the end of the day, spending an hour with your favorite organization can go a very long way.

Zoe Oliver volunteers by picking up trash at Doheny State Beach. Photo: Kristina Pritchett

BY ERIC HEINZ

Concierge medicine and home doctors are not necessarily a new service, but as health care evolves and technology provides easier access to people, new variations of health services are emerging.

Kory Tuominen, M.D., a staff physician for PersonalCare in Aliso Viejo, said his practice’s version of concierge medicine approaches health somewhat differently. The practice is based on a monthly or annual fee for membership, which includes amenities such as executive physicals, and fitness analysis and nutritional advice.

“That gives them 24/7 access or sameor next-day appointment times. We focus more on prevention of illness rather than

At Your

treatment,” Tuominen said. “It’s like you’re the CEO of your own health. We are on that board of directors, and we’re here to help advise, counsel and devise plans.”

The concierge doctors also offer annual physicals equivalent to executive examinations that take two to three hours. They look at different cardiac risks and other possible ailments someone may experience.

“All of my patients have my cell number and email. They can contact me outside of the usual office hours,” Tuominen said. “Traditional care is system-based, and you have to fit that into a 9-5 day; this is patient-focused. If they have a question or concern, they call me.”

Tuominen said traditional family practices, or internal practices, can have 2,000 to 3,000 patients on their client lists. He said he and his staff cap their lists at 350 patients.

Balance via exercise

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

We all know the feeling of satisfaction as we leave the gym after a solid workout session.

Our legs are tired and our muscles ache; it all hurts. But the temporary pain is worth the eventual payoff.

Exercising several times a week has proven to be vital to our physical and emotional health. A structured workout regimen that incorporates a variety of exercises, from weight training to cardio to yoga, can keep you feeling fresh and keep your body in tip-top shape.

While 150 minutes of exercise per week is a nice target to hit, many fitness experts would recommend even more.

Chelsea Cruz, fitness manager at Crunch Fitness San Clemente, said you should carve out time for a workout six times a week. Individuals with a structured workout regimen will immediately begin to reap the physical and mental benefits.

“Working out that often has multiple physical benefits. You’ll boost your metabolism, add lean body tissue and improve your cardiovascular health,” Cruz said. “It also is a great confidence booster and a great stress reliever.”

We spoke with several fitness experts in the area to help you create an exercise game plan to become the best “you”

Concierge doctors look to help patients find balance by providing convenience

The monthly costs for the services cost about $300 month, which can be reimbursed through health insurance or cash.

State law requires at least some kind of in-office visit charge, Tuominen said, which is usually a $45 copay for in-office visits.

More information can be found at www. personalcarephysicians.com.

Michael Haga, M.D., of Doctor in My House, and his partner focus on homebound seniors. Haga said the business helps people who cannot easily get to their doctors. They go to them instead. Doctor in My House also provides 24/7 connectivity with physicians.

“Working children are often the ones who are responsible for taking their parents to medical appointments,” Haga said. “So it provides balance to the kids’ lives by us taking care of them at their parents’

150 MINUTES of moderate intensity workouts each week

possible. Here are two major guidelines to follow:

1. MIX THINGS UP

Routine can be the enemy! Sure, you put in a few hours at the gym, but if you do the same workout over and over again

with limited variation, your body will make slow progress. What you want to do is shock your system every now and then. Rattling off the same old routine, like pumping bicep curl after bicep curl, can be a bore. Research and try new exercises. Mix up your tempo or weight loads when lifting, and remember to throw in some

home. It provides a huge peace of mind for the patients as well.”

The practice is also introducing holistic medicine. Just like PersonalCare, the services are paid with an annual or monthly fee. Patients are not locked into a contract for a certain amount of time, Haga said.

Home visits are scheduled for Monday through Friday. Haga said the company can also provide blood testing, electrocardiograms, ultrasounds and x-rays at clients’ homes.

“There’s just a need for it, and to do house calls without a concierge fee is not feasible on a Medicare reimbursement,” Haga said. “This allows us to provide the things that Medicare couldn’t cover.”

For more information, visit www.doctorinmyhouse.com.

cross-training exercises like boxing or swimming.

“I encourage resistance training four times per week. Go outside on the other days, whether that’s hiking, surfing or joining a dance class. It’s important to mix it up and have fun,” Cruz said.

2. EMBRACE THE FITNESS COMMUNITY

The thought of joining any type of structured gym or fitness program can be daunting. Novices can feel overwhelmed by the massive machines and odd-looking exercises at any gym across the country. But fear not. After overcoming the initial anxiety, joining group fitness classes can be a blast.

At Training Camp Fitness in San Juan Capistrano, manager Max Trette witnesses first-hand the power of teamwork on a daily basis. The local business specializes in popular exercises such as hot yoga, heated barre and outdoor boot camps. The boot camp is a fun, high-intensity group workout that features box jumps, battle ropes and tire flips.

“We really are a community of people working together,” Trette said. “When they’re doing the boot camp exercises, you can see people coming together and cheering and encouraging one another.”

Another added benefit of working out with others every week is the accountability factor. You and your new workout buddies will push each other to show up and put in the work.

Kory Tuominen, M.D

Michael Haga , M.D

Fitness experts recommend several days of moderate exercise a week to round out a healthy lifestyle. Photo: Courtesy

for Your Heart

Five podcasts that help people achieve balance in their lives

BY ERIC HEINZ

MEDITATION OASIS

This guided meditation podcast talks people into a trance and allows the mind to drift. Soft music accompanied with directions from a soft-spoken instructor provide an opportunity to slink into a private world of relaxation. Such episodes of the podcast include titles such as “Emotional Ease” and “Going Deep Within.”

The collection is narrated by Richard and Mary Maddux.

Visit www.meditationoasis.com/podcast/ for more information.

NATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO (NPR)

The leader in American radio for decades, NPR gives people a plethora of topics to help you with your life. From direct categories about nutrition and sleep to witty banter in such podcasts like “A Conversation with the Reluctant Therapist,” there is something for everyone looking to improve themselves and find balance.

For example, Public Health Minute with Bill Latimer, Ph.D., is a one-minute segment as he interviews professionals in the field of health and medicine. www.npr.org/podcasts/2031/health

JUDGE JOHN HODGEMAN

A funnyman and consummate analyst of human nature, John Hodgman provides conflict resolutions with gusto and levity in a mediated courtroom setting. By doing so, he leaves both parties with a better sense of understanding of one another and brings balance to their lives in a calm and diplomatic way.

In one podcast, two sisters argue over sharing clothes, but Hodgman’s responses evoke laughter from both as they come to

a mutual solution. His judgment is fair, and people may be able to apply the “cases” in the podcasts to their own lives.

Hodgman has been a contributor to National Public Radio, The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, various acting roles and more.

Visit the podcast at www.maximumfun. org/shows/judge-john-hodgman.

BRIGHT HORIZONS FAMILY RESOURCES

Parents know better than anyone that balance is critical to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Running around and trying to drop the kids off at their different activities, maintaining communication with your spouse, being able to let frustrations at work go—all these topics and more are covered in the Bright Horizon’s Family Resources podcasts.

Bright Horizons is a “provider of early education and preschools, employersponsored child care, back-up care, educational advisory services and other work/life solutions,” according to the organization’s website.

Episodes include titles such as “Strike a Balance with Good Enough Parenting.”

Visit www.brighthorizons.com/ family-resources/podcasts/ for more information

BALANCE BOLDLY WITH NAKETA THIGPEN

Upbeat and positive, Naketa Thigpen gives people the tools they need to recharge their lives. Thigpen tackles topics like getting back into a routine, loving yourself and understanding where emotions build up.

Her confidence vicariously transfers to listeners’ emotions with uplifting messages about balance and how to achieve it.

Thigpen starts out each of her episodes by saying her podcast is a time for people to “Get bold about our balance and campaign to shake the shame that stunts our growth.” The podcast is intended for women and “a few brave men,” Thigpen says in her opening address. It’s also geared toward business professionals and team settings.

Listen to the podcast at www.thigpro. com/podcasts/.

What is Balance

and

Why do we need it?

BY ERIC HEINZ

Between constant and instantaneous racket from beckoning phone calls, tweets, texts and all other hellacious noises from the work day, finding and maintaining balance is critical to ensuring a healthy lifestyle.

“I think we have a world that is very integrated, and there is not a boundary between work and home,” said Kim Lee-Thorp, a health coach, massage therapist and doula with San Clemente Wellness. “I’m not even sure if ‘balance’ is a good word anymore; we’re juggling. It’s not about weighing one over the other; it’s how we keep the balls in the air and find a healthy way to keep them going without dropping. We used to look for balance.”

With all the chaos in everyday life, Lee-Thorp said being able to plan well, maintain consistent and adequate hours of sleep, is important.

“We’ve given up a lot of our traditional routine, and we are simply responding to things,” Lee-Thorp said. “There are so many things we commit to during the week.”

Taking a break from electronics, even for just a couple hours a day or a cumulative rest period, is important to ensuring your mind is clear and can refocus on tasks at hand.

Lee-Thorp also said balance is being able to enhance positive emotional attractors in order to combat negative attractors in our lives.

“If we don’t spend that time in those positive emotional places and remember our dreams and our purpose, it makes it difficult to figure out how to return to balance,” she said. “If you remember why you shouldn’t be (living in

a negative space), then take the time to do so.”

Sahel Anvarinejad, owner of Care4Yoga in San Clemente, works alongside her son, Tabay Atkins, the 12-yearold yogi prodigy who already has certifications across multiple disciplines of yoga mastery.

Anvarinejad said many of her clients come for yoga just to find balance. She said it’s a mental therapy as much as a physical workout during the 90-minute sessions.

“The clients say they feel like they just went on a mental retreat after a session,” Anvarinejad said. “They just become so calm and relaxed, and they get sort of a refreshment. When you’re going at such a fast pace, you kind of get away from that when doing yoga. When you get on the mat you leave everything behind.”

But even master yogis like Anvarinejad and Atkins need a retreat. Atkins has become so popular with the TV circuit and has been offered numerous acting opportunities in the last year he sometimes feels overwhelmed. Anvarinejad said he is booked until at least October.

The two made an impromptu weekend trip to get away from their busy schedules on a recent weekend.

Their day-to-day routines start with breathing exercises as well as talking about their emotions and dealing with them in a positive way. They also advocate journaling for reflection and getting massages occasionally.

“It sometimes takes people time a long time just to surrender (to relaxation), and it’s not even that they’re being stubborn; it’s that we’re so used to the fast pace,” Anvarinejad said. “People sometimes feel guilty. This is just an hour to surrendering to your time and become so much more balanced and efficient.”

TabayAtkins and Sahel Anvarinejad

(Cont. from page 12) trip. Tickets are $45 per person, $29 for children. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. www.danawharf.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE SWALLOW’S INN

1:30 p.m. Listen to The Fullstones perform at the Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

CLEAN OCEAN FUNDRAISER

4:30-8:30 p.m. The OC Contemporary Art Gallery will be holding a fundraiser to support the Global Environmental Legacy Foundation. There will be artwork for guests to view, live entertainment, a silent auction, a raffle, food and more. 1509 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.397.7778.

Monday | 29

OUTLETS MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND SALE

9 a.m. The Memorial Day Weekend Sidewalk Sale at Outlets at San Clemente will offer discounts on items for summer. Offers vary; see stores for details. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. www.outletsatsanclemente.com/events.

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES

10 a.m. Join the Dana Point VFW Post 9934 in honoring fallen veterans. A special presentation of the Marine Corps traditional Empty Boots ceremony will be held. Pines Park. 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point. 949.248.7696. www.vfwpost9934.org.

MEMORIAL DAY BBQ AND PARTY

Noon-4 p.m. Join the Capistrano Eagles M.C. for a Memorial Day BBQ and party at the Swallow’s Inn. Music will be provided by Family Style from 2-6 p.m.. The Swallows Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano.

YOGA IN THE PARK

5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

Tuesday | 30

SOUTH OC PROGRESSIVE HOST

ERWIN CHEMERINSKY

1 p.m. Professor Chemerinsky, dean and distinguished professor of law at UCI, will soon become Dean of the School of Law at the University of California Berkeley. He is widely known as one of the country’s leading experts on constitutional law. Chemerinsky has authored 10 books including The Case Against the Supreme Court (Viking, 2014). Bring your own copy if you want it to be signed. Admission: $5 cash at

the door. RSVP to socprogressives@gmail. com. St. Andrews by-the-Sea, 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente. www.facebook. com/progressivesofsouthorangecounty.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters per form at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

LIVE MUSIC: VICTORIA BAILEY

7:30 p.m. Listen to music from Victoria Bailey at the Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.492.3663. www.thecellarsite.com.

KARAOKE AT GOODY’S

8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Wednesday | 31

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. Free to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

KARAOKE AT THE SWALLOW’S INN

7 p.m. Sing karaoke, imbibe and eat free popcorn at The Swallow’s Inn’s karaoke night with Bobby and Joel. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY

7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails. Event is $25. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS

9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S

8:30 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.

SALTADO DE VAINITAS CON POLLO THE DISH

Peruvian cuisine draws inspiration from many sources. It draws from local sources in the high Andes Mountains where chickens, goats, cattle and other traditional meats are dried and combined with soups and granular sides. But it also has influences from settlers who came and made do with their own spices with what they could find.

The Saltado de Vainitas con Pollo, roughly translated as dried chicken with green beans and other vegetables, is a testament to this tradition. The dish is served with an “aji” sauce, which is blended with lettuce, garlic and some kind of cream. It is incredibly soothing with the different flavors, and also a good pacifier after you try the rocoto pepper sauce—a tough contender on the Scoville scale.

The chicken works well cooked a little dry and coupled with a medley of sautéed vegetables and a pile of fluffy, flavorful rice. If you’re in the mood for something that

tastes very familiar but is distinctively different, speak with your servers. At Inka Mama’s, they were very knowledgeable and eager to explain the origin and combination of the dishes.

Inka Mama’s 821 Via Suerte, Unit 104, San Clemente 949.369.6262 www.inkamamas.com

On Stage at The Coach House: Roadcase Royale Feat. Nancy Wilson & Liv Warfield

BY ALLISON JARRELL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Local concertgoers can expect the ultimate rock meets R&B experience on May 31 when Roadcase Royale takes the stage at The Coach House.

Fronted by guitarist Nancy Wilson of Heart and vocalist Liv Warfield of Prince’s New Power Generation, Roadcase Royale has decades of music industry experience between Wilson, Warfield and their bandmates—Warfield’s lead guitarist Ryan Waters and Heart veterans Dan Rothchild (bass), Ben Smith (drums) and Chris Joyner (keys).

The soulful rock group first came together last summer after Wilson saw Warfield perform with The Roots on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

“They just killed it,” Wilson recalled. “She was so powerfully engaging.”

Wilson convinced Warfield to open for Heart at the Hollywood Bowl, and the two hit it off. The rest, as they say, is history. In two weeks’ time, the duo came up with six new songs.

Roadcase Royale debuted their first single, “Get Loud,” on Jan. 21 at the Women’s March on Washington. And on May 12, they released the politically charged “Not Giving Up,” encouraging strength in today’s politically divisive climate.

Wilson—who dominated the stage with Heart during a time when it was rare to see women in rock ‘n roll—said the first time she heard “Not Giving Up,” she was “floored” by the powerful message of the

song.

“Politically, it’s been tough to survive the s--t-show that’s going on, and I think it helps people to know that you have a voice and some power in this situation,” Wilson said. “You should not feel powerless—your opinion matters, and your voice matters. Stay strong and unified behind the issues you believe in.”

Wilson said the upcoming Coach House performance marks the group’s first mini tour, and they’re hoping to expand and tour across the country eventually. For now, she’s looking forward to returning to San Juan, where she played a couple times with Heart and the Lovemongers in the early ’90s.

“It’s a great place to play,” Wilson said. “A great room, and a great town.”

Doors open at 6 p.m. on May 31, and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $44.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano. For tickets or more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www. thecoachhouse.com.

Photo: Courtesy

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com.

ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 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

ART GALLERIES

San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com

CHIROPRACTIC

Spinal Vitality Integrative Chiropractic

647 Camino de los Mares, Suite 220, 949.616.5470, www.spinalvitality.com

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com

CONCRETE

Costa Verde Landscape Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com

Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.com

DENTISTS

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com Shoreline Dental Studio

Kristen Ritzau, DDS 122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.245.6046, www.shorelinedentalstudio.com

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

EDITING SERVICES

Perfectly Clear Editing Services

Judi Heidel: 949.281.6364 www.perfectlycleareditingservices.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT

Capistrano Valley Raingutters Scott Williams, 949.542.7750

JEWELRY

Paradise Jewelers

166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6661, www.paradisejewelers.com

LANDSCAPING

Costa Verde Landscape Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com

MATTRESSES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

MORTGAGES

Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage 949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

SC Rider Supply

520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com

MUSIC LESSONS

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

PET SERVICES/HOUSE SITTING

2-dogswalking.com Ricky, 949.973.4128

Pet care –Insured & Bonded

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Contact Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com

Bill Metzger Plumbing 1001 Calle Recodo, 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

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

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

In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com. Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

GARAGE SALE - SAT., MAY 27

Women’s designer clothes, boys clothes, toys, storage bins and baskets, books, baby items, tools, kitchen supplies and lots more! Time: 7am-12pm. Address: 24276 Cortes Drive, Dana Point 92629

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

Buying Large Postage Stamps Collections! Nick, 619-672-0434

Dorothy “Joyce” Gahan STAMPS!

OBITUARY

Dorothy Joyce Gahan, a longtime resident of San Clemente, died December 20, 2016.

Joyce was born May 5, 1926 in North Dakota. She spent her early years in the small town of Libby, Montana before moving to Spokane, Washington to attend St. Luke’s Hospital “School of Nursing.” It was in Spokane that she met her husband, Harold Gahan. They were married in Seattle, Washington shortly after Joyce’s graduation from nursing school in 1947.

The Family moved to California in 1951 where Joyce began her nursing career. For the next 47 years Joyce held a number of positions in the nursing field but her favorite of all time was as one of Orange County’s first Infectious Control Nurses.

Joyce is preceded in death by her husband Harold, sister Evelyn Lieurance, and brother Lawrence Morrill. She leaves four children: Mike (Nancy), Jerry; Kevin, Terrie (Steve Ayers), seven grandchildren: Kevin Gahan (Cindy), Kelly (Justin Eide), Kristin Gahan, Matt Gahan, Andrew Gahan, Haley Ayers, Ian Ayers, and three great grandchildren: Kristy Gahan, Reese and Reed Eide. She is survived by her brother, Bill Morrill and a half-brother, John Beebe. She will be greatly missed and forever loved by her family.

SC LIVING SC

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom

Blake

Writing Columns for Nearly 24 Years

How long have you been writing your column?” a woman I had never met asked me in the Capistrano Beach Costco last week.

“Almost 24 years,” I told her.

I thought about my answer to her question as I entered the refrigerated room to pick up some blueberries and baby spinach.

“Wow, that’s almost a quarter-century.”

How the time has flown. My first column appeared on July 4, 1994. It was called “Middle Aged and Dating.” Why that subject?

I had gone through a divorce and thought dating at age 53 was going to be easy, particularly because I owned Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point, and lots of attractive women frequented the deli.

I quickly discovered that dating for a middle-aged guy wasn’t easy at all; it was difficult and frustrating. I kept a lot of written notes about my dating mishaps.

Six months later, after editing my material, I mailed it to the two women editors of our local Dana Point newspaper and asked for a meeting with them, to which they agreed.

At the meeting, when they asked what I had in mind. I said, “Maybe, I could write a column.”

“That’s what we were thinking,” they said. And then told me they felt the single women of Orange County would have a field day taking pot shots at my woe-is-me, I-can’t-get-a-date, I can’t-get-a-hug message. That’s how this column began. A lot has happened since then. Three things have been particularly important to me:

(1) Two years ago, after 25 years of making sandwiches, I sold Tutor and Spunky’s and retired. The new owners are great guys, and it pleases me they are doing so well.

(2) In 1998, I met my partner Greta, who at the time was a special education teacher at R.H. Dana in Dana Point. We’ve been together 19 years.

(3) Six years ago, in March, 2011, I became a columnist for Picket Fence Media, the publisher of the Dana Point Times, San Clemente Times and The Capistrano Dispatch

Writing for these papers is one of the most enjoyable working environments I’ve had in my lifetime. From the publisher Norb Garrett and his wife, Alyssa, who is the company’s business manager, to the supportive staff and editors, they are wonderful people. It’s a family, and I’m darned lucky to be a member of their team.

The content of the column has changed somewhat over the years. Now, it’s not solely a dating-over-50 column. Oh, dating and finding a mate are still important to older singles, but as we age, there are other things in life that grow in importance— family, grandkids, friendships, retirement, physical fitness and health. The column is now called, “On Life and Love After 50.”

It amazes me that while my topic is mainly about being single later in life, I estimate that 35 percent of my readers are married. Many have told me that reading about the hardships singles endure encourages them to appreciate their spouses more.

Sometimes, I write about travel. Greta and I enjoy traveling. Our philosophy is to

his sweetie is named Flannel and he would just love to be your new best friend. When he isn’t playing with his friends in the yard, Flannel loves impromptu cuddle sessions and is a grade-A snuggler. He’s one year old and would be suitable for family members of all ages.

If you would like to know more about Flannel, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC

travel as much as we can, while we’re still able to. Travel facilitates two important activities that we believe seniors should incorporate into their lives: keeping their bodies moving and their minds active and challenged.

On our recent trip to Spain and Portugal, we averaged nearly five miles a day walking. And our minds were challenged by reading and trying to follow road maps and city maps, so we wouldn’t get lost, and speaking—or at least trying to—in foreign languages and learning about other countries’ histories and cultures.

Also, keeping our minds busy while traveling is focusing on staying safe and being aware of our surroundings at all times.

Being able to share my opinions and experiences with readers is an honor for me. I take a great deal of pride in my writing, realizing how fortunate I am to have this writing career.

Nothing makes me happier than when someone says, “I met my partner or spouse or significant other because of

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: Medium

advice you wrote.”

When I started writing, the Internet was in its infancy and there was no Internet dating. Cell phones didn’t exist. Wow, think of the changes that have transpired in these 24 years.

My goal is to continue writing until I pass the quarter-century mark and hopefully far beyond that. There is so much to learn and share in this ever-changing world.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www. findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@ gmail.com. SC

Tom Blake, left, and his partner, Greta, pose for a photo in Faro, Portugal. Photo: Courtesy of Tom Blake

Flannel. Photo: San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

Business Beat

News from San Clemente’s business community

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

New Location

ELECTRIC CALIFORNIA

950 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente

1.800.958.6556

www.electriccalifornia.com

A premium eyewear and style company in San Clemente, Electric California has moved into a new location and will celebrate the move next week.

“As soon as we saw the view and the warehouse at the building, we found this place was actually bigger than the last place; it has more amenities, and we knew we can bring our entire operation back to San Clemente,” said Eric Crane, the owner and CEO of Electric California. “It’s been about eight years since we had our office and our warehouse in one building.”

Crane said the building has a wealth of surf history within it, as it once housed Surfing Magazine

“Our kitchen is (famous surf photographer) Larry ‘Flame’ Moore’s light table,” Eric said.

Electric California was started just before 2000 by Kip Arnette and Bruce Beach, and Crane worked alongside them. The company was sold circa 2007 to Volcom, which then sold the company to Kering.

“About a year ago, I acquired the company back from Kering,” Crane said. “What we’re calling this chapter is Electric 3.0. We’re going to focus what we want to focus on and put the brand back on its original root and purpose.”

A steep rise in rent prompted the move,

Crane said.

Zachary Rierson, the allocations manager for Electric, worked for Surfing Magazine from 1993 to 2006 in the building where Electric California is now housed.

“It’s nice to be back in this building just for the history alone, with Surfing Magazine and Herbie Fletcher,” Rierson said The business will host a debut party of the new location from 7-10 p.m. on June 1 at 950 Calle Amanecer. There will be live music from After School Special and Captain’s Quarter. The event is all ages, with adult beverages for people 21 and up. Non-alcoholic drinks will also be provided. There will be an In-N-Out burger truck, Heraldo’s Street Tacos and more.

Art exhibits will include custom vintage motorcycles from Cycle Zombies, works from iconic surf culture artist John Van Hamersveld, photographer and director Jeff Johnson, artist and photographer Mark Oblow and surfboards from Chris Christenson. Admission is free.

The showroom will be open and new products will be showcased.

Ian Foulke, left, global marketing director of Electric California, and Eric Crane, owner and CEO of the company, will host a celebration from 7-10 p.m. on June 1 at the new 950 Calle Amanecer location.

Photo: Eric Heinz

Zachary Rierson, the allocations manager for Electric California, worked in the business’s new location from 1993-2006 for ‘Surfing Magazine.’ Photo: Eric Heinz

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Wall of Fame Welcomes Newest Members

Friends of SC Foundation inducts Johnny Campbell, Gabe Gardner and Bill Stewart

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The Friends of San Clemente Foundation inducted three new members into its Sports Wall of Fame during a ceremony at the Vista Hermosa Aquatics Center on May 20, highlighting a wide range of athletic disciplines.

Off-road racer Johnny Campbell, volleyball player Gabe Gardner and surfboard shaper Bill Stewart were joined by family, friends and fans on Saturday as they became the Wall of Fame’s newest members.

Campbell, who grew up riding dirt bikes around the old tomato fields of San Clemente, reached the pinnacle of his sport by dominating at the SCORE Baja race in Mexico. After learning the ropes of the desert race that sends riders on a wild, sometimes dangerous ride across the rugged Mexican terrain for several years, Campbell broke through for his first Baja 1000 win in 1997. He went on to win the event nine consecutive times. He picked up two more wins in the Baja 1000 in 2007 and 2008 to bring his career win total in the Baja 1000 to 11, which is a record that stands today.

Campbell now manages his own racing team, Johnny Campbell Racing, and mentors a new generation of off-road riders. Gardner’s career looms large over the volleyball community in town, and not just

because of his 6-foot-9-inch frame.

Gardner was a three-sport standout at San Clemente High School, playing water polo, basketball and volleyball for the Tritons. He was named the SCHS and Orange County Athlete of the Year his senior year, and went on to play for Stanford University.

At Stanford, Gardner played for both the Cardinal and the U.S. Men’s National Indoor Team. Gardner played for Team USA in the 2004 and 2008 Olympic Games and won a gold medal in Beijing.

“All throughout my career I loved telling people where I was from,” Gardner said in his acceptance speech. “I loved saying I was from San Clemente.”

A transplant from Bowling Green, Kentucky, Stewart’s unique and innovative surfboard designs and have artwork earned him legendary status in San Clemente.

Over the last 40 years, Stewart says he has personally shaped 40,000 boards, and his production team at Stewart Surfboards has produced over 100,000.

Stewart developed the famous Hydro Hull design in the mid-1980s, and is known for being one of the first shapers to airbrush his creative designs onto surfboards.

Campbell, Gardner and Stewart bring the Wall of Fame’s membership total up to 20. SC

Scoreboard

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

WEST COAST FUTBOL CLUB WINS CAL SOUTH NATIONAL CUP

The West Coast Futbol Club’s Boys 99 Wyss team won the 2017 Cal South National Cup in Temecula on May 21.

The team, which draws players from San Clemente, entered the high-profile club tournament as the No. 1 overall

seed in the U18 division. The team scored 25 goals and allowed just four against over a seven-game stretch. West Coast FC defeated Fullerton Rangers 2-1 in the championship match.

Local players on the team include Trevor Denney and Braden Zines. The team is coached by Oliver Wyss.

SCHS BASEBALL PROGRAM TO HOLD SUMMER CAMPS

The San Clemente High School baseball program will be holding summer camps at Vista Hermosa Sports Park for youth players ages 5 to 13, and for freshman-level players.

The freshman only camp will run from June 6 -9. The camp for youth players will run June 13-16. Players will be taught all aspects of the game, including pitching, hitting and defense. SCHS head coach Dave Gellatly and his staff will lead the camp.

For more information, contact Gellatly at 949.364.5554.

SCHS Football Inducts John Hamro into Hall of Fame

BY BRAD WRIGHT, FOR THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Short of carrying a tuba and marching with the Triton band at halftime, John Hamro has done just about everything for the San Clemente High School football team.

The former standout player, head coach and current athletic director and assistant football coach can now also add Hall of Famer to his résumé. He was inducted into the program’s Hall of Fame during a ceremony May 19 following the annual Triton Football Hall of Fame Golf Tournament at Talega Golf Course.

“I have been so incredibly blessed to grow up here in San Clemente, work at my alma mater and raise my family here,” said Hamro, who has been the Tritons athletic director since 1995.

In 2011, Hamro took over the head coaching reins after Eric Patton resigned and led the Tritons to a 12-2 record and an appearance in the CIF-SS Pac 5 Division championship game.

The following season, Hamro promoted assistant Jaime Ortiz to head coach. In 2016, Ortiz led the Tritons to their first CIF-SS title and the first football state championship in the school’s 52-year history. Hamro has stayed on as an offensive line coach, and he played a key role in orchestrating the 2016 championship team’s powerful offensive attack, which included two 1,000-yard rushers.

Hamro, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame by his brother, Gary Hamro, played football and basketball while attending SCHS. He was a lineman on the 1979 team that reached the CIF-SS Central Division title game. He graduated in 1981.

“In 1992, he was the first full-time coach I hired on my staff,” said former SCHS coach Mark McElroy, currently the coach at Saddleback College. “He has since impacted more than 25 years of athletes at San Clemente High School. He is truly a Hall of Famer.” SC

San Clemente High School athletic director and football coach John Hamro was inducted into the football program’s Hall of Fame on May 19.

Photo: Courtesy

L to R: Bill Stewart, Gabe Gardner and Johnny Campbell were inducted into the San Clemente Sports Wall of Fame on May 20. Photo: Steve Breazeale

The West Coast Futbol Club’s Boys99 team won the Cal South National Cup on May 21. Photo: Courtesy

Welcome to Amity Island

The great white sharks are here, now what?

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

“There are people who still haven’t made their pick of places this year. There’s no shortage of houses for rent… anywhere. If I run a story saying that a young woman was bitten in two by a monster shark off Amity, there won’t be another house rented in this town. Sharks are like ax-murders, Martin. People react to them with their guts. There’s something crazy and evil and uncontrollable about them. If we tell people there’s a killer shark around here, we can kiss the summer goodbye.”

—Peter Benchley, Jaws,

1975

Three weeks ago, my editor at the San Clemente Times and I penciled in “shark follow-up story” for this week’s “surf-tacular” edition. To say a lot has happened in the way of apex predators since then is a bit of an understatement. Somehow, and it’s apparent that nobody really knows how, the zone between Salt Creek and San Onofre has become shark central. Considering the constant flow of headlines and social media updates featuring fins in them, it’s hard to tell you something you probably haven’t already heard, so this week as I was sizing up my angle of approaching the issue, and I thought I’d add an editorial rif f to the current predicament we collectively find ourselves in. Jaws is as good of a jumping off point as any In the world’s most famous shark story, author Peter Benchley artfully articulates what happens when out of the deep a great white shark starts terrorizing, and occasionally eating, the summer patrons at the otherwise quiet coastal hamlet of Amity. Mind you, Benchley was writing about one shark. Last Sunday there were 25 great whites spotted yards from the shore in Capo Beach. A fisherman hooked an eight-footer off the end of the San Clemente Pier the following day. Lifeguard personnel at city and state beaches are already on a heightened state of alert and have issued too many panic-inducing closures to count at this point.

As you read this, you’re probably figuring out how best to spend your extended Memorial Day Weekend. I’m guessing “Go to the beach” isn’t high on your list, but

“Fashion a harpoon” may be. We’ve got a real-life Amity situation playing out right before our eyes. To date, we’ve gotten by with temporary beach closures when sightings are reported, but with less than a week before local schools let out and summer vacation officially begins, the beaches will soon be packed. Or at least they used to be. We are in uncharted waters here.

“I’ve only surfed a couple of times since the attack.” I hear that a lot from friends. What I don’t hear is them complaining about the lack of swell, or constant spring winds, or blanketing fog.

“At least it will keep the crowds down.”

That used to be a funny, albeit somewhat cliché joke around town. Nobody’s kidding anymore. Dana Point and San Clemente are communities that thrive on seasonal business. Junior lifeguard programs, surf camps and summer programs for kids could all be profoundly affected by the explosion in shark presence. I’m a parent of a 9-year-old girl. More than anything I want her to spend the summer surfing and swimming in the ocean with her friends, but seeing what we’ve all seen, how can we honestly feel good about letting them doddle out past the surf line?

And what becomes of the vacation rentals, hotel bookings, retail and restaurants? Will they suf fer a slump in business? Will Fisherman’s on the San Clemente Pier start offering a “feed the sharks” option to their menu? Or will the sharks be a boon to the economy and bring the tourists in droves? Who knows? Like I said, we’re in uncharted waters.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve spoken with dozens of people who have spent their lives around the ocean. Nobody seems to be able to explain what we’re experiencing. Some say the sharks have always been here, we just have drones and iPhones to film them now. Some point to climate change and the warmer water. Others point to the sharks’ food source. The expansive sandy bottom around Capo Beach is an ideal habitat for skates and rays, which the juvenile great whites pop like potato chips. Whatever the reason for them being here, the other part of the conundrum is how to get them to leave in an environmentally conscious way. The sharks are hanging tough. Anybody got any ideas? SC

SURF FORECAST

Water Temperature: 60-63 degrees F

Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair

Thursday: Mix of old and new SSW swells with small NW windswell and fresh WNW swell mixing in. The better breaks through the region will see mainly knee-waist-chest high (2-3’+) surf. Light/variable to light onshore wind through the morning, with a light+ onshore sea-breeze developing in the afternoon..

Outlook: Modest SSW swell and minor NW swell mix will continue through this weekend, with most well exposed spots hanging in the kneewaist-chest high zone. Lightest wind will show in the early mornings. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE

WEEK KIRRA PINKERTON T

he National Scholastic Sur f Association’s (NSSA) West Coast Championships hit the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier over the weekend, and two of San Clemente’s finest came away with convincing wins. It’s like splitting hairs, but Grom of the Week honors go to Kirra Pinkerton, who won her second consecutive open women’s title. She also placed second in the Open Girl’s division.

“Beyond stoked to take back-to-back wins in the NSSA regionals open women’s today!” reveled Pinkerton.

Thanks to playful three- to four-foot surf, local South County surfers had a field day in the decidedly less-sharky waters.

Kade Matson continues to be on a huge roll, winning both the open men and open juniors divisions. Kei Kobayashi joined Matson in the open men’s final, finishing fourth. Hayden Rodgers won the air show and found his way to a very respectable fourth-place finish in the open boys. And lil’ Cannon Carr was flaring in the open mini groms, where he came away with a big win. Sawyer Linblad and Bella Kenworthy went one and two, respectfully, in the open super girls final.

In the explorers division, Liam Murray finished first in the men’s division. Nolan Rodgers took third in the boys. Menehuenes Brayden Burch and Hayden Rodgers finished third and four th, respectfully. Makai Bray, won the super groms. Liv Stokes, won the women’s longboard. And Julia Guild finished third in super girls. Congratulations to all surfers on their successes and accomplishments over the weekend. SC

This juvenile great white shark was photographed off the coast of Dana Point on May 13 during a shark sighting tour with Dana Wharf Sportfishing. Since then, many more groups of great whites have been spotted around Dana Point and San Clemente.

Photo: Eric Heinz

Kirra Pinkerton. Photo: Courtesy GROM OF THE

TIMES