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Five things San Clemente should know this week
Refunds of Beach Parking Impact Fees Begin
THE LATEST: On Friday, May 6, the city of San Clemente announced it will begin the process of refunding Beach Parking Impact Fees (BPIFs), which were reclaimed by property owners in a lawsuit filed in 2014.
The city will mail a notification to property owners, most of whom reside on the east side of Interstate 5, who are eligible for a refund. The city’s staff will propose the City Council pass a resolution at the May 17 meeting to distribute the funds through its financial service company, BNY Mellon.
“The court order dictates who is eligible for the refund and to use the 2014-2015 (county) assessor’s tax roll of property owners during the time the decision was made,” Assistant City Manager Erik Sund said.
People who no longer own properties within the eligible area will not be able to receive a refund, even if they paid into it, according to the court order.
Because the funds gathered interest over time, eligible recipients will have to complete a W-9 tax form, Sund said.
The fund was as large as $10.9 million, but about $2.6 million of it was used to pay legal feeds to the litigants, which was ordered by the court.
Assessment of Orange County BPIFs were halted when the Superior Court ruled in favor of the litigants, Sund said.
“If we were to establish that fee again, we would have to conduct a nexus study that addresses the need of the fee,” Sund said. The last beachside parking lot that was planned by the city was rejected by the California Coastal Commission, and any projects related to beach parking have been put “on hold,” City Manager James Makshanoff said.
“It’s a unique situation,” Makshanoff said. “It’s kind of uncharted territory.”
The BPIFs were collected beginning in 1989 as a way to fund parking at beachside areas in San Clemente. As projects did not materialize and the fund sat stagnant, local attorney Brad Malamud as well as other litigants filed suit in 2012 challenging the necessity of the fees.
“The results of this decision affects all of the state of California in how they address mitigation fees,” Sund said, “and as we approach our next milestone on mitigation fees, we’ll also have to look at nexus
studies in terms of updating and revisiting those fees. That will be a large endeavor in itself.”
Sund said there was no deadline for the city to use the fees, but the court decided they had held on to the money for too long to continue assessing and collecting the fee.
WHAT’S NEXT: Sund said it could take up to five years to distribute all the money if there are people who do not claim their refund. After about five years, the unclaimed funds go into the state’s escheatment fund.
According to Sund, a list of the properties and their eligible refund, as well as a list of legal fees, will be listed on the city’s website, www.san-clemente.org under the News Feed item, “Beach Parking Impact Fees,” by the end of the week. —Eric Heinz
Plans to Build Alzheimer’s, Dementia Living Facility Approved by Commission
THE LATEST: The Planning Commission approved construction plans for a new assisted living facility, to be built at 101 Avenida Calafia. It will have 40 units with two beds each (80-person capacity), and a second floor for residents with “cognitive impairments,” according to the application.
The facility is planned to be nearly 20,000 square feet and 44 feet high with 30 underground parking spaces. Valet services is also planned for the project.
“In the city’s housing element, it identifies a need for housing for (housing for senior citizens) as well as persons with disabilities,” city planner Cliff Jones said
during the May 4 meeting. Jones said the residents of the facility would not increase traffic in the area and are less likely to leave the property often.
WHAT’S NEXT: The planned construction of the building will go to City Council for approval in the near future. —EH
Beach Concerts Kick Off With Student Musician Showcase
THE LATEST: San Clemente High School and Shorecliffs Middle School jazz bands will be the opening performances for the 16th annual Beach Concert Series. The first performance will be at 6 p.m. on May 29, north of the San Clemente Pier. Meals are available for purchase for $8 per person and include barbecue ribs, chicken, baked beans, oriental salad, sourdough bread and a soft drink. The concerts are free and sponsored by the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation
WHAT’S NEXT: The concert series will host Stone Soul, a 1960s-style Motown band July 23. Fortunate Son, a tribute band to Creedence Clearwater Revival, will perform Aug. 6. The Long Run, a tribute band to The Eagles, will perform Aug. 20. —EH
Bike Racks to be Eliminated from Corridor Plan
THE LATEST: Although signage for the bike trails around San Clemente was approved during the May 4 Planning Com-
mission meeting, bikes racks will likely not be part of the plan. After the city received a grant to make improvements to its bike corridors, it was discovered that the addition of bike racks required an additional historical study report from Caltrans, according to a city staff report.
WHAT’S NEXT: According to the report, the entire project, which includes revamping bike lanes all around San Clemente, will be completed by 2019. The City Council will have to approve the final details of the plan at a future meeting. —EH
Most of Estrella Plaza Shopping Center Now Open
THE LATEST: With the opening of Sprouts Farmers Market on Wednesday morning, the long-awaited Estrella Plaza Shopping Center is now mostly open for business. T.J. Maxx opened in late April, and Ulta Beauty hosted a grand opening on May 6. Dozens of people showed up to the opening early on Wednesday morning. Shoppers were eager to check out the aisles of produce and natural products at Sprouts Farmers Market. The Estrella Plaza Shopping Center began its redesign in mid-2015.
WHAT’S NEXT: The last business, Stein Mart, is expected to open some time in September. The Sports Authority that was planned for the shopping plaza may not be coming in after the company filed bankruptcy in April and announced the closure of more than 450 stores nationwide. Sources for Sports Authority did not return phone calls before press time. —EH
Yuri Romero, a produce clerk, stocks watermelons on Wednesday during the opening of Sprouts Farmers Market in San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz
SC Sheriff’s Blotter
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 9
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES
Avenida Madrid/Elena Lane (8:20 a.m.) A man was seen acting like he was going to jump in front of oncoming traffic, causing vehicles to stop.
Sunday, May 8
DRUNK DRIVING North El Camino Real/ Mariposa (7:56 a.m.) A white, “olderstyle” Ford Bronco was seen running into the side rails and swerving over lanes, a caller said.
ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY South El Camino Real/Avenida Granada (2:15 a.m.) A man was knocked unconscious in a fight. Orange County Fire Authority responded.
NEWS BITES
ERIC HEINZ
BY
COMPILED
City Accepting Leadership San Clemente Program Applications
The goal of the Leadership San Clemente Program is to establish an educational forum and provide city residents the knowledge and skills to address community issues. The program takes place from 6-9 p.m. Sept. 8 through Oct. 27. The classes are limited to the first 23 people. The program includes workshops on general government, finance and administrative services, community development, fire and police work, public works and more. To apply for the program, call 949.361.8200, visit City Hall at 100 Avenida Presidio or email the city clerk at cityclerk@san-clemente.org.
City Service Opportunities Open to Applicants
The city clerk’s office is accepting applications through Wednesday, June 1 for city commission positions.
The Planning Commission; Beaches, Parks & Recreation Commission; Golf
A 22-year-old sales associate was arrested in the incident and was held at the Central Men’s Jail on a $25,000 bail.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida De La Grulla, 100 Block (2:07 a.m.) Police were called about two people inside a garage whom the caller thought were breaking in.
Saturday, May 7
DISTURBANCE Avenida San Dimas, 100 Block (5:14 p.m.) A caller said someone in a backyard was throwing oranges at golfers.
ILLEGAL PEDDLING Calle Del Cerro, 1100 Block (2:26 p.m.) People were reportedly selling vacuums door-to-door, but no one knew what they looked like.
DISTURBANCE Avenida Del Mar, 100 Block (6:58 a.m.) A woman described as transient was screaming in the lobby.
Friday, May 6
ILLEGAL PEDDLING Avenida Vista Hermosa, 900 Block (2:32 p.m.) A woman was seen panhandling with a baby.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Mateo, 100 Block (3:42 a.m.) Police were called to a man in a vehicle who said there
Course Committee; Coastal Advisory Committee; and Human Affairs Committee all have three positions open for two-year terms ending June 30, 2018.
The Talega Representative to the Friends of the Reserve Commission has one two-year vacancy open.
The Investment Advisory Committee has one vacancy open for an industry specialist, and city residency is not required for the two-year term.
The City Council will interview candidates and make appointments at its meetings on June 20 and 29. People can request an application form by calling 949.361.8200 or by sending an email to ojedal@san-clemente.org. Applications and more information on the positions can be found at www. san-clemente.org
Boys & Girls Club Summer Camp
Registration is now open for all county residents at the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area in San Clemente. The camp runs from 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday through Friday from June 13 to Aug. 10. The camp features two hours every day of STEM-related activities, as well as baseball, physical fitness, arts & crafts, computer lab and free-play. The club features a brand-new playground. Breakfast, lunch and a snack are provided every day. The
were pedestrians “influencing violence” nearby.
DISTURBANCE Calle Puente/Avenida Pelayo (2:08 a.m.) A woman said some guys were trying to beat up her male friend.
BATTERY REPORT El Camino Real, 200 Block (1:42 a.m.) A woman said a female customer hit her in the face.
Thursday, May 5
FOLLOW-UP REPORT El Camino Real, 800 Block (7:38 p.m.) A man told police he found his vehicle that he had reported stolen. He said he forgot he had left his vehicle at the location the previous night.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES
Avenida Cabrillo, 300 Block (2:31 p.m.)
An unknown man came to the front of the location and would not say why he was there.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES
Avenida Del Mar/Ola Vista (1:52 p.m.)
A man described as bald and wearing a white shirt with black sleeves was jumping on top of a vehicle.
SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES
Avenida Pico/Avenida La Pata (12:01 p.m.) A man was seen walking around with his pants down, exposing himself.
fee for the summer camp is $30 for all nine weeks and includes all the aforementioned activities with the exception of the baseball league, which is available for an additional $85. Visit www.bgcsca.org or call Mary Bruner at 949.484.0205 for more information.
AVID Students Recognized
The Orange County Department of Education held its annual Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Senior Standout Recognition and Scholarship presentation on April 20, where high school seniors throughout Orange County were recognized for their academic achievement and were awarded scholarships. More than $2.7 million in scholarships was awarded.
Capistrano Unified School District students took home $68,000 in scholarships. San Clemente High School had four students recognized, the most of any CUSD high school. The San Clemente High School Parent Teacher Student Association congratulated Gage Shelmidine, named one of Orange County’s “Senior Standouts,” as well as Ashley Guzik, Jonathon Jackson and Miriam Ramirez. The group also recognized AVID teacher Erin Dollar.
Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
Community Meetings
THURSDAY, MAY 12
Coastal Advisory Committee 7 p.m. The San Clemente Coastal Advisory Committee will host its regularly scheduled meeting at the Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
SUNDAY, MAY 15
San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m–1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar.
MONDAY, MAY 16
Non-resident Junior Lifeguard Registration Begins Visit www.sanclemente.org for more information.
TUESDAY, MAY 17
Sunrise Rotary 7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets at Talega Golf Course Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega, www.scsunriserotary.com.
City Council and Special Budget Presentation 5:30 p.m. The city of San Clemente will present its budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year prior to its regularly scheduled City Council meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 18
Planning Commission 6 p.m. The city of San Clemente will host its regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
San Clemente Rotary Noon. The San Clemente Rotary meets at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.233.7981, www. sanclementerotary.org.
SATURDAY, MAY 21
San Clemente Educational Foundation’s 13th Annual Fundraiser 5 p.m. Cocktail hour with Trevor Green and silent auction, live auction and dinner, followed by dancing to music from Bunch of Guys. Tickets are $175. Email scef@cox.net for more information. Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club, 200 Avenida La Pata, www.schsef.org.
First-Timers Ship Out
Marines to train in Okinawa, Japan, for next six months
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
One of San Clemente’s adopted U.S. Marine Corps battalions is shipping out to Okinawa, Japan. The deployment began Tuesday night and more troops will head out in the next couple weeks.
In Japan, the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines (2/4) deployment will include a variety of combat training and will focus on higherlevel work.
Some of the Marines of the 2/4 left Tuesday night following a gathering with Major Gen. Daniel O’Donohue, who took over as commanding officer of the 1st Marines Division in September.
Capt. Frank Anderson of the 2/4 will be going on his fourth deployment.
“Going into the jungle is much different; jungle warfare is very, very different from all aspects of war-fighting functions,” Anderson said. “Whether it be intelligence or logistics or fire, it’s very different. So we’re going to take a good chunk of time in the jungle. This will help us build that cohesion and prepare us to go wherever we’re needed.”
Being prepared when called upon at a moment’s notice is what Anderson said defines the 2/4.
“We can do a broad range of different things,” Anderson said. “For example, my last deployment, the big tsunami occurred in northeastern Japan. That was very different, going up against the struggles of dealing with a massive crisis like that.”
Humanitarian relief is intertwined with combat operations, Anderson said.
Second Lt. Brendan Adams is the platoon commander for Fox Company in the 2/4. Adams has been a Marine for about two years, but being deployed to Okinawa for six months will be his first full-length overseas training.
He said he joined the Marines because of a sense of loyalty to his country.
“I just wanted to serve the country the best way that I know how to,” Adams said. “The infantry was the right answer for me. My older brother was in the infantry as well, so I got a lot of influence from him. We’ve been building up for this with a lot of training. It’s exciting, and we’ll see what happens.”
Adams said he went for a quick trip to Southeast Asia with a Marine unit, but he wasn’t there for a full deployment.
“A lot of my guys are new, and I know it will bring a challenge to the younger Marines for sure,” Adams said. “The jungle can present a lot of challenges.”
Corpsman Luke Campbell, a hospital medic third class with the U.S. Navy, will be joining the training as well. Campbell said the biggest thing he worries about is soldiers expiring from the high temperatures in the jungle, where humidity can sneak up on people, especially when they are fully clothed and carrying large amounts of equipment.
“My top responsibility and my company’s top responsibility is the health and wellness of our Marines, and heat casualties are a big thing I’m thinking of right off the bat before we even get there,” Campbell said. “I’m not nervous, but I’m wary about making sure all my Marines are educated about proper hydration and even the wildlife. There’s just all kinds of things that are going through my head from a medical perspective.”
Campbell comes from a Navy family; both his brother and sister are currently serving.
“I joined the Navy to serve my country as well as travel, and the Navy provides a lot of opportunities down the road,” Campbell said. “I’m really excited about the deployment, and I’ve never been anywhere
around Okinawa. Just excited to see the culture, interact with the people, and all the training.”
Campbell has been with the company for two months and is still getting to know everyone in his company. Originally from Boston, Campbell said he’s just “pumped” to experience something completely different.
“I’m just trying to get to know my company and work with everybody,” Campbell said. “We’re going to be in the jungle, so that’s going to be completely different than the desert and the mountains.”
Lance Cpl. Kenneth Cordova, a rifleman, has been in the Marines for two years. He is originally from Minnesota.
“I joined because the Marine Corps embodied a lot of my beliefs at the time,” Cordova said. “And I also joined because of the brotherhood and everything we’ve experienced.”
Cordova said he is eager to put his practice to the test.
“I’m looking forward to putting that training to actual work,” Cordova said. “I came as a new guy 10 months ago, and now we’re building more on skills needed
for the deployment, and I can’t wait to put it into practice.”
Cordova said for most of the deployment, he and his company will train for three or four weeks and then have weekends off. Spending six months together in a foreign country, he said, will bring everyone closer together.
“It’ll be good to be able to interact with everyone on a more personal level,” Cordova said.
Cordova said he’s interested in learning the local culture while he’s deployed, but being away from family isn’t necessarily something he’s eager about.
“It’s just kind of something that you get used to,” he said.
Anderson said the mental part of the deployment and the training are the biggest hurdles for Marines being deployed for the first time.
“It’s more of a mental challenge; it’s more of the uncertainty of it,” Anderson said. “The Marines and our Corpsmen are very well prepared for not knowing what the future holds. That’s why we train to prepare for various mission sets.” SC
Major Gen. Daniel O’Donohue, commanding officer of the 1st Marines Division, speaks to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines on Tuesday at Camp Pendleton. The 2/4 is being deployed to Okinawa, Japan—the first deployment was Tuesday night. Photo: Eric Heinz
Marines of the 2/4 listen to Major Gen. Daniel O’Donohue speak on Tuesday prior to the battalion’s upcoming deployment. Photo: Eric Heinz
Lt. Col. Brian Greene speaks to the Marines of the 2/4 on Tuesday at Camp Pendleton. Photo: Eric Heinz
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San Clemente Times Vol. 11, Issue 19. The SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes. com) and The Capistrano tDispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2016. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
GUEST
OPINION: View from the Pier by Herman Sillas
Marriage Ripens Fruits of Our Labor
ifty-plus years ago, my folks and I went to meet Cora’s parents to ask their permission for her hand in marriage. Mexican tradition requires this step. Cora and I had dated for over a year, but this was the first joint gathering of our families. After introductory remarks, my father cleared his throat. He told Cora’s father that I was a good son, a hard worker and that we had come to seek his permission to allow me to marry his daughter.
Cora’s protective father responded that Cora didn’t cook, didn’t help around the house nor keep her room clean. I assured him that I loved Cora and would take care of her in spite of his comments. He nodded his head and gave us permission to wed. Cora’s mother brought out the tequila, and we all toasted the future. I was a law student, and we married a year later. We both worked. Cora didn’t drive a car, but cooked our meals. Each one was an improvement. Today she is a great cook. In those early years, I drove her to the market and pushed the cart as she filled it. I didn’t like going to the market, but eventually we were able to afford a car for her. I obtained the services of a driving school to teach her how to drive. We both loved her newfound freedom. She could drive around to see her friends and shop. Better still, I didn’t have to go to the market anymore.
Over the years, I learned to barbecue
Letters to the Editor
CHURCH LOT WAS MEANT FOR SOMETHING ELSE
KAREN GRATA, San Clemente
Last month, the Orange County Register published an article concerning Pacific Coast Church selling the last open space on Calle Frontera (Vista Hermosa exit). I live two blocks from this space, and it is the first I’ve heard of the sale. This property was zoned 30-plus years ago to be designated as a “charitable site” (church, day care, etc.). It was never intended to be residential prior to Pacific Coast Church’s current proposal, with which for some unknown reason our City Council is on board.
Readers, we have a newly developed “outlet center” right off the same exit, with 340-plus homes permitted that have not even been sold/built yet. This community will be developed over the next few years,
and cook other dishes as well. But Cora let me know that the kitchen was her domain; at best, I was allowed temporary exemption to enter. After our children left home, cooking required less effort. Eventually, it was just Cora and I eating together. As we aged, I’d accompany her to the market and push the cart to help her out. I didn’t mind doing it then but never focused on what she was buying. Costco, Ralphs, the 99 Cents Store, Trader Joe’s, and Smart and Final were her destinations. She was a bargain hunter, and I tagged along. Recently, due to a minor stroke, Cora is under doctor’s order to stay home while she gets some physical therapy. Don’t worry folks; she is doing fine. With God’s blessing, Cora will be out and about in no time. In the meantime, I have become the shopper and the cook. She gives me the shopping list designating the product, label, volume and which store to visit. I head out—alone. I push the cart down the aisles holding Cora’s list in my hand. As I search for the items, I realize how fortunate we are in this town. I think about all the people involved in bringing food to us: the growers, cattlemen, fishermen, farm workers, butchers, meat packers, wholesale buyers,
as will people catching on to the Outlets. Is this not enough congestion (we’re way past the heavy traffic stage) that we need another 75 condos directly across the freeway?
I encourage everyone who thinks this is a good idea (City Council, Mayor, et al.) to enter the Interstate 5 North anytime between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. We have a SIGAlert three to four times a week.
If this were not owned by a religious entity, would this rezoning be granted? I ask this because prior to the Pacific Coast Church building on their current site, street parking along the entire street was prohibited (Calle Frontera). Once the Church community exceeded its parking lot spaces, illegal parking was ignored, even though the “No Parking” signs were still up for two to three years. The signs are long gone now and street parking from the church overflow goes half a mile down both sides of the street. That is fine. We know your congregation is there, and we slow down.
Is this not enough of an imposition on our community that you now have to sell the only open space next to your church to
canneries, truck drivers, warehouse persons, managers, clerks, cashiers and box persons. Then I think of the food industry, trying to meet our tastes and government’s regulations in an effort to protect us. Our choice of good food is endless. But becoming a forced shopper, I gained respect for Cora’s and all other committed shoppers’ abilities. What I once viewed as a time-wasting process, I now recognize its importance. Cora always checked labels for ingredients’ quality, quantity and price. She picked vegetables and fruit that were fresh. All these steps bring us better health. Cora seeks information from other shoppers and gives them tips as well. Recipes and food secrets were also shared at the takeout line. Serving as a temporary full-time shopper, I discovered a new world. When Cora returns to the market aisles, I will accompany her, but I’ll be doing more than riding shotgun; I’ll be a selector, too. That’s the view from the pier. Herman Sillas, an attorney and artist, fishes at the San Clemente Pier most Saturday mornings. He is the author of the award-winning book, View from the Pier— Stories from San Clemente. He may be reached at sillasla@aol.com. SC
build 75 condos? Isn’t “greed” one of the seven deadly sins? I do have a great suggestion: Build a parking lot!
CHANGES IN SAN CLEMENTE
JAY GASKINS, San Clemente
In 2010, I ran for City Council based on four issues that I was relatively passionate about at that time. Now, six years later, and after reading a letter to the editor that reminded me of one of the four, this is where we stand with each.
San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station: All of the “sustainable energy” freaks that picket the power plant and then hop in their Prius, which is powered by two sources of energy—gasoline and fossil-fuel-generated electricity—and claim victory over taking away the only decent source of clean energy we had, must be looking for the next best way to make law-abiding, taxpaying citizens’ lives more difficult. When someone can power a vehicle with the dog excrement in the park by my house, I will see the light on sustainable, alternative energy sources to better this planet. (Cont. on page 10)
San Clemente
THE VIEW FROM THE PIER
By Herman Sillas
(Cont. from page 9)
The Playa Del Norte Project: As we speak, the decrepit Miramar Theater sits in its most pristine condition, the parking stalls adjacent to the theater are almost always empty (less a few cars by the beach entrance and some Amtrak passengers’ cars) and there is no real beachfront dining or shopping. I know the protesters (voters) and the usual uninformed people that say “no” to everything that they see as development know more than me and are ecstatic that they stopped people from having a cup of coffee while viewing the ocean or buying a shirt and pumping money into the local economy. Having an empty, trashfilled parking lot is a better idea than the Playa Del Norte project.
The Ralphs renovation and remodel: I am not even sure that I have to say much about this failed design because, by now, most people have already had an accident in the parking lot, know someone who has died as a result of the parking debacle, or have had their ocean view disappear with the bell tower installation—which was designed as an alternative to blocking ocean views by building a lower profile shopping center—and would have given southwest San Clemente residents an alternative to going to Talega for goods and services.
The 241 Toll Road Extension: Now that the construction has plagued the Interstate 5 freeway through San Clemente for a very long time—and rational people have explained the toll road construction in detail to the uninformed, and they know they would not have lost Trestles—I would guess that a vote today would have dramatically different results. The toll road continuation to the 5 freeway would be a godsend to this town, and these people just don’t get it!
Just keep the constant rejection of anything you see that is a potential improvement (without even knowing what the positive benefits are) and the only growth that we have seen—a significant new population of drug addicts, criminals, homeless encampments, etc.–—and see how long your Spanish Village by the Sea stays a vacation resort. As the town is swirling down the bowl, understand that the intense rejection of responsible development in areas that need some “improvements” will ultimately create a sanctuary city that consists of nothing but brand new beautiful rehab/halfway houses and publicly-funded homeless villas…and signs that you can see from the freeway.
TWO GOOD SAMARITANS
MICHAEL OLIVAR, San Clemente
My wife and I have lived in San Clemente for 15 years and now own a second property in Talega. We are proud of all that San Clemente has to offer and find the people friendly and kind, reminding me of my home state of Hawaii.
On the afternoon of April 29, I decided to go for a ride on my Harley-Davidson to enjoy the weather and catch lunch at one of our superb local restaurants. As I was
Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, May 13 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso
John Dorey, vice president of the Friends of San Clemente Foundation and Sports Wall of Fame committee chairman, will be this week’s guest. 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.
turning a corner in Talega, my bike hit a slick spot, sending my bike onto the pavement and me into the air. As I lay on the sidewalk gathering my thoughts of what just happened, I noticed vehicles driving by and several others sitting parked at the stoplight. Not one person stopped their car or rolled down their tinted windows to offer me help.
Car after car drove by while the others waited for the light to change so they could be on their way. I came to my feet and walked back to the bike. I tried several times to lift it as cars continued to drive around me. I thought to myself, “Is this really happening? Is there not one person with concern or the decency to ask if I was alright or offer to help?”
After the light turned green and the intersection was void of cars, I had the bike on its kickstand. At that very instant I hear, “Do you need help?”
I turned to see a man in a white pickup truck and another in a black sedan bother to stop in the middle of the street.
“God bless you,” I said, “but I’ve got it now.”
In retrospect, I’m sorry I didn’t walk over to shake their hands and to thank them. I can only hope that maybe both gentlemen will read this letter to know that I am extremely grateful for their generous offer of assistance.
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.
CORRECTION: In the front-page photo caption of the May 5-11 edition of the San Clemente Times, two of the actors’ names were spelled incorrectly. The actors’ names are Theresa Jones and Usman Khan. Linda Kerwood is the name of Jones’s character in “Tom, Dick and Harry.”
In the same edition, in the News Bite with the headline “SCHS Student Wins National Award for Photography,” the category the student’s award was incorrect. The student’s award was for Dance Choreography.
In honor of our 10th Anniversary, the San Clemente Times is proud to present...
10 Weeks of Giveaways!
Here’s the scoop…
Just send us an email describing why you LOVE the SC Times.We will select a winner each week for 10 weeks!
Send email to: contest@sanclementetimes.com and tell us why you LOVE the SC Times. Include your name and phone number. Winners will be featured each week from 4/7/16-6/9/16.
Our next prize package includes:
• A gift certificate to Village Mediterranean Rim
• Custom “knock-your-socks-off” SC Times Stance socks
• Awesome SC Times swag
Congratulations to this week’s winner Mary Lou Peters!
Mary Lou took home a giftcard to Iva Lee’s, SC Times Stance socks and an SC Times T-shirt!
“ What’s not to love about this amazing local newspaper? I could go on and on about how informative it is, but I can’t wait to read the rest of this week’s issue. So, to put it in a nutshell, I love the colorful ads, the informative articles, seeing pictures of local happy people, the Soapbox, letters to the editor and upcoming events. Many heartfelt thanks for an outstanding newspaper! Keep the good news coming. ”
GETTING OUT SC
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
What’s going on in and around town this week
Thursday | 12
HCG MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS
PROGRAM CLASS
6 p.m.–7 p.m. Learn how to lose up to 30 pounds in 30 days with HCG. Free class discusses the use of prescription HCG for safe, medically supervised, fast and effective weight loss. Call to register. Helene Pulnik, ND, Pacific Coast Naturopathic Health, 24865 Del Prado Ave., Dana Point, 949.416.4670, www.naturopathicwellness.com.
BOO STUBS
7 p.m.–10:30 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.
Friday | 13
BALLROOM BASH
7:30 p.m.–10:30 p.m. The evening starts with a brief waltz lesson shortly after 7:30 p.m., followed by lots of other great recorded Latin, swing and ballroom music for dancing. The $10 admission includes delicious refreshments, and it’s open to singles and couples ages 18 and older. Community Presbyterian Church, Fellowship Hall, 32202 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.498.0233, www.ballroombash.com.
OPEN MIC NIGHT
7:30 p.m. Open mic night for anyone wanting to perform or enjoy live, local music. Play solo or with a live band. Sit in with other musicians and feel what it’s like to play with a full band. Email coamusicarts@gmail.com
On Stage at The Coach House: Fuel
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Brett Scallions admits he was somewhat hesitant to relive the past. Several years ago, the former Fuel frontman and guitarist had been touring with the legendary Robby Krieger and Ray Manzarek of The Doors, but felt like he needed to change things up. And while searching for a new creative path,
EDITOR’S PICK
SATURDAY, MAY 14: HIGH 5IVE 4FITNESS
8 a.m.–2 p.m. A medley of exercise with health and wellness education, including the 5K Sugar Shock-A-Thon, Battle of the Gyms and live music. Registration at this time is $35 for adults (ages 15 and older), and $15 for students (ages 5-14). 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente High School, 949.234.7259, www.thenoblepathfoundation.org/h54f/.
or call Community Outreach Alliance, 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, 949.388.0114, www.communityoutreachalliance.com.
SWERVE
9 p.m. Three DJs and four live performances. $10 advance purchase or $15 at the door. OC Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.
Saturday | 14
MARY COLBY TEA PARTY
3 p.m.–5 p.m. Casa Romantica is hosting its second largest fundraising gala of the year, the Mary Colby Tea. This year’s event features Meredith Khachigian, the former Chair of the Board of Regents for
Scallions decided a return to his past was the way to start fresh.
Scallions and fans are glad he made the choice.
Scallions has reignited and reimagined Fuel, the band that brought him to international prominence. He is the lone original member in the current iteration of the band, which first earned major attention with their 1998 debut album, Sunburn. Fuel’s latest album, Puppet Stings, was released in 2014 and features all new members, including former Puddle of Mudd drummer Shannon Boone and Scallions’ longtime collaborator and fellow guitarist, Andy Anderson. Fuel will be appearing at The Coach House Concert Hall in San Juan Capistrano on May 27. Tickets are $23, and doors open at 6 p.m.
the University of California. A parlor runway fashion show by Hautec, which produces OC Fashion Week, will also take place.
Tickets are $65, and the event will benefit “Casa Kids,” the free, year-round cultural and educational programming for school-age children. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, ww.casaromantica.org.
Sunday | 15
WINE TASTING
5 p.m. Iron Horse Vineyards has selected four sparkling wines, and Barnoa Wine Bar will pair them with four plates. Email info@ barnoawinebar.com or call 949.388.4378 to reserve a space. 831 Via Suerte #106, San Clemente. www.barnoawinebar.com.
Fuel took off following its platinum sophomore release, Something Like Human, which featured the hit single “Hemorrhage (In My Hands).” Scallions eventually split with the band, but now, after an eight-year absence, he’s returned. Weary of sounding like a recycled version of their former selves, Scallions wanted the new version of Fuel to take chances and explore new sounds on Puppet Strings, while also staying true to its post-grunge roots.
“This record has some more blues as well as punk rock sounds,” Scallions said. “We wanted elements that hadn’t been there before, but above all, we wanted to make a solid record.”
Scallions said Fuel will perform songs from across its catalog while on tour.
Monday | 16
BRIDGE AT SENIOR CENTER
1 p.m. If you are an intermediate-level player, join the San Clemente Senior Center. The game is play party/social bridge. Monday and Thursday at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.940.5702, www.san-clemente.org.
Tuesday | 17
COOKING CLASS AT ANTOINE’S CAFE
6:30 p.m. The cooking class will focus on Mediterranean cuisine featuring grilled chicken with cider molasses and crispy lentil pilaf with baharat and fennel pollen. $60 per person. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.
Wednesday | 18
SOCGEMS ANNUAL SILENT AUCTION
7:15 p.m.–9:30 p.m. The South Orange County Gem & Mineral Society’s silent auction is free admission and includes opportunity drawings, a “Buy-It-Now” table and refreshments. The event is a fundraiser for the educational nonprofit. Ole Hansen Fireside Room, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.498.8358, www.socgems.com.
FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S 9:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s, with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com.
The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. For tickets and more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www.thecoachhouse.com.
San Clemente
Photo: Courtesy of The Noble Path/Ross Whitaker Photography
Fuel will perform at The Coach House Concert Hall on May 27. Photo: Courtesy
PROFILES
OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom
Blake
American Bravery Lasts Long in the French Countryside
am currently enjoying a trip to Europe with my life partner, Greta. I am 76; Greta is 74. Now that we are both retired, we want to travel as much as we can, as long as we are physically able to do so. Our first stop was Paris, where we have been for 18 days.
But for years, the most important place on our priority list to visit in France has been Normandy, two hours north of Paris, where D-Day occurred on June 6, 1944. On this trip, we finally had the opportunity to scratch it off the list of places to visit.
By Tom Blake
Subconsciously, Greta and I must have sensed that we were doing something important the day we travelled by train to Normandy, as we both awoke at 2:30 a.m., even though our alarm was set for 4 a.m.
Our plan was to catch the 5:26 a.m. metro train from our local Fontenay-aux-Roses station, a half-mile walk from our home in Paris. We were on the station platform when the train arrived.
Paris metro trains usually stop for 30 to 40 seconds before the doors close and the train moves on. But at our third stop, the doors remained open. Then an announcement: “This train is delayed because there is an incident.” We glanced at each other.
A Quick Visit to Cuba
BY BILL THOMAS, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
recently joined my cardiologist son, Greg, and his wife, Mary, at a conference on nuclear medicine in Havana, Cuba. We were met at Jose Marti Airport in Havana by customs agents who looked at our visas and inquired why we were in Cuba and where we were staying. We were then escorted by two tour hosts, who, fortunately and skillfully, shuffled us through the visa and baggage processes to waiting transportation vehicles.
Along the way to downtown Havana, we saw older structures, many of which were crumbling structurally, damaged with hole-ridden walls. There were clothes drying outside many open windows. We saw covered bus stops, hitchhikers, wires dangling from shoddy connections, vacant lots and lonesome concrete and brick foundations. Most buildings were
Since the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels, the whole region has been on a high security alert. In the station, we saw a German shepherd being walked along the platform by a security agent. We wondered if our long-awaited Normandy trip would be postponed.
But soon the train doors closed, and we were on our way. At the Gare Saint-Lazare station, we boarded a high-speed train to the city of Caen, and then changed trains to go to Bayeux, which was the first city in France liberated by the allied forces after the Normandy invasion.
We walked 25 minutes to the Bayeux tourism office. There, we booked a taxi to take us on a two-and-a-half-hour tour with no narration, just a ride with a very nice French driver named Arnold.
Our first stop was the Pointe du Hoc. From the taxi, it was a quarter-mile walk to the coastline. Details of the invasion were posted along the way. This is the spot where approximately 250 U.S. Army Rangers scaled 300-foot cliffs to surprise the German soldiers guarding the big guns that were perched up there. At the end of the day, only 93 Rangers had not been killed or wounded.
This was where awe and amazement set in for us. The courage of the soldiers— American, Canadian, British and from a few other countries—who had been dumped into the cold waters of the English Chan-
one- to two-story apartment buildings with facades whose colors had faded.
There were no large advertisements similar to those common in the U.S. We would later find such displays throughout Havana, but they primarily featured images and political slogans credited to Che Guevara, Fidel Castro or “The Revolution.”
My son’s conference drew physicians from around the world. Their gathering of 200 was held at the Hotel Nacional, which was built in the 1930s and most recognized as a featured location in the film,
nel to come ashore and then fight was almost beyond comprehension.To put the beaches of Normandy into perspective, 156,000 U.S. troops took part in the D-Day invasion, which had been planned for more than a year.
Next, our driver took us to Omaha Beach. There were 3,683 allied soldiers who were killed coming ashore at the beach. One cannot be prepared for the emotion that one feels there. As a former member of the Amphibious Navy, I was overcome with pride walking on Omaha Beach for what happened there. I touched the sand and picked up a few pebbles and looked out at the English Channel.
And then Arnold drove us to the Normandy American Cemetery, located atop a hill overlooking Omaha Beach. For as far as the eye can see, there are white crosses dotting the landscape. Buried there are 9,387 of our troops from different battle locations, including three women. In investigating the gravestones, we found the burial site of one of the women. The cemetery is staggering. These brave Americans helped save the world.
Of course, there is so much more to see in Normandy. One could easily spend 3-4 days. But Greta and I had accomplished what we had planned. All of our emotions had been left at the battle sites and cemetery.
As we walked to our cab, Greta said, “It is a place where everyone who can should
The Godfather Part II. While my son attended the conference, Mary and I used our free time to experience and learn about Cuba, one of the last countries truly foreign to Americans—for now.
Mary and I spent our days mostly sightseeing, which entailed considerable walking and riding. Classic cars, as is the reputation, were abundant in Cuba. The cars were 30-, 40- and 50-year-old Chevys, Fords and Pontiacs (some with refitted Japanese engines) with flamboyant fins, lots of chrome and gumball-machine colors. There were also Soviet cars from the ’60s and ’70s.
The riding was done not only in classic cars, but also in open-roof buses, motorbikes and taxis. We took bicycle rickshaws and coco taxis (motorized bicycles with coconut-shaped carriages for passengers).
As we rode through downtown Havana, I was entranced by the variety of architecture, which ranged from the 16th to the 20th century. The city is one of the most architecturally rich in the world. Buildings mirrored the social, political and international history evolving from Spanish colonial times to the present. Interior
come, and no one should ever forget.”
Over only a couple of weeks, 425,000 troops were killed in the Battle of Normandy, including approximately 200,000 German soldiers. Those staggering figures prompt one to ask, “Is war really worth it?”
During a stop in the small, charming city of Bayeux, we walked past a restaurant with this sign in the window: “Welcome to our Liberators.”
It was nice to see that the French people are grateful to the U.S. and other countries for the sacrifices made to liberate their country.
As we headed to the Bayeux train station to return to Paris, Greta said, “Not bad for a couple of mid-70s accomplishing what we did today.”
I gave her a big hug.
Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. His latest book can be found online at www. smashwords.com/books/view/574810. See his website at www.findingloveafter60.com (Yes, after 60, time rolls on.) To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC
(Cont. on page 16)
San Clemente
The abundance of vintage American cars in Cuba is a product of a long-standing trade embargo that was recently lifted. Photo: Bill Thomas
Revolutionary leaders adorn the sides of many buildings and billboards in Cuba. Photo: Bill Thomas
(Cont. from page 15) patios, huge cathedrals, periodic columns and statuary, balconies and ornaments reflected the Spanish colonial style as well as the influence of art nouveau, art deco and eclectic styles from abroad.
Some buildings have been repurposed, like the Palacio de los Capitanes Generales, a former palace that is now home to the city museum, which features a range of important historical artifacts. I walked down Calle Oficios to colorful Plaza Viejo, edged with arcades and historical buildings. At the Museo de la Revolucion, there were Cuban paintings and sculptures to admire.
It was also momentous to ride along the Malecon, a serpentine road along the ocean that winds around the colonial center. There’s also the elegant Paseo del Prado, which directs to Plaza de la Revolucion. The Plaza has a tall tower of tribute to Jose Marti and two ministry buildings that feature the sculptures of revolutionary heroes Che Guevara and Fidel Castro.
Though some buildings had been maintained or artfully restored, I was saddened by the numerous unattended and crumbling relics of old, beautiful buildings. A 1959 revolution brought Castro into power, and with him, a state-owned economy and a form of socialism. The ensuing trade embargo with the United States contributed to a stagnation of infrastructure, contributing to the disrepair of many buildings, roads, bridges and the anachronism of cars and consumer wares.
However, recent increased tourism has
helped the country rejuvenate Havana and elsewhere with restorations, and restaurants and hotels in newly preserved buildings.
Outside of those old buildings and cars, however, the city’s life shone through in its people. Whether they were walking the cobblestone streets, sitting on curbs or playing music, people were plentiful. In Cuba, people are people, and their history contributes to a unique and diverse citizenry. As a central location in the Caribbean Sea, Cuba has been inhabited by native populations, European settlers, African slaves and people from many points elsewhere, resulting in a mosaic of vastly differing cultures and traditions.
I found music everywhere in Cuba—jazz combos, instrumentalists, whatever—on the street, in restaurants, in hotel lobbies, you name it.
If sightseeing was what we did most on the trip, dining was second. Our evenings were primarily spent eating, and I enjoyed every opportunity to eat local food throughout the trip. During Cuba’s transition away from a state-only economy, restaurants are slowly being allowed. Known as paladars, these restaurants are usually in owners’ homes. No more than 16 seats are permitted at any paladar, and they typically boast good food and creative menus. There are no employees, as family members run these establishments. Havana has a variety of nightlife options, but one nightly event we attended was the firing of cannons at San Carlos de La Cabana called “The Canonazo.” At 9 p.m. every night, a group of young soldiers of the Revolutionary Forces, dressed in 18th century uniforms, reproduced the colonial period’s nightly practice of informing the Havana public that the city gates to the bay are closed, blocked by a chain across its opening. It was dramatic, colorful, historical and fun—just like Cuba itself.
Bill Thomas is a former college president, UCLA Dean of Experimental Education and English professor. Bill has lived in San Clemente for 17 years and was the 2012 San Clemente Citizen of the Year. SC
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
Puppet shows are just one of the many street performances in Cuba. Photo: Bill Thomas
SPORTS & OUTDOORS SC
San Clemente
SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Q&A With SC Sports Wall of Fame Inductee Bob Yoder
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The surname Yoder has become synonymous with excellence in sports in San Clemente. One look at the banners and school record boards in the gym at San Clemente High School will tell you that much. There have been two generations of Yoders who have impressed Tritons fans over several decades.
Bob Yoder is considered one of the best all-around athletes to come out of San Clemente High School, having starred for the Tritons baseball, basketball and volleyball teams while attending the school from 1970 to 1974. But where Yoder excelled was on the volleyball court.
Yoder parlayed his success in high school into a very successful collegiate and professional playing career. Yoder pulled off a rare double-dip, winning an NCAA National Championship in volleyball as both a player and a coach while at the University of Southern California. He played professionally in the United States Volleyball Association and won titles in 1981 and 1983.
As a coach, Yoder guided Ohio State University for two seasons before returning to his alma mater, USC. He also coached his daughter Erin’s Laguna Beach Volleyball Club 16’s team to the Junior Olympics gold medal in 2007. Yoder and his son, Cory, coached the 949 Volleyball Club’s 18’s team to a gold medal in the Junior Olympics in 2013.
On May 21, Yoder will join Doris Stephens and Joyce Hoffman as the newest inductees into the San Clemente Sports Wall of Fame.
The San Clemente Times caught up with Yoder to talk about his induction and career highlights.
San Clemente Times: You were known for being a standout multi-sport athlete in high school. Did you feel playing multiple sports at a younger age helped you in any way?
Bob Yoder: I think playing multiple sports was very important, and it’s a shame it is not as common and, in some cases, discouraged today. Early specialization is encouraged and more the norm. One benefit of playing multiple sports is getting exposed to different coaching styles. The demands of different sports create versatility, and it improves your ability to learn. Growing up, we played whatever was in season, and the only organized sport was baseball. Everything else was pick-up games. One of the dangers of specializing too soon is you may not know what you’re really going to be
Triton Report
the best at or what you are most passionate about.
SCT: So many of your family members have gone on to have successful athletic playing careers. What role did the city of San Clemente play in your extended family in regards to athletics?
BY: San Clemente High School has been a focal point for our entire family for years. I can’t count the number of games I’ve been to over the years watching our family members participate and compete. We’ve had a lot of fun and good memories in that gym. Hopefully we’ll see a third generation in the gym in the not-too-distant future.
SCT: What was more difficult: winning an NCAA Championship as a player or as a coach?
BY: It was more difficult as a coach. It was my ninth year overall coaching and fourth year in a row in the NCAA Finals, so it took some persistence.
SCT: What accomplishment was more fulfilling?
BY: Winning (a championship) as a player was more fulfilling because your impact is much more direct. I think coaches can have a huge influence, but the players ultimately have to win the game.
SCT: How does it feel to be inducted into the SC Sports Wall of Fame?
BY: I’m truly thrilled and honored. Especially because I grew up here and went through the local schools. I’m proud to be a part of this incredible group. SC
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School winter sports, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.
Volleyball Advances Past Eagles in Playoff Opener
Playing without two starters, the San Clemente boys volleyball team defeated visiting Santa Margarita in four sets in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 Championships on May 12. The Tritons will travel to play seventh-seeded Westlake on May 12. Against the Eagles, the Tritons (23-9) were without Aaron Strange and Paul Castellana, who are nursing injuries. San Clemente got contributions from all over its roster, including a 15-kill effort by Jess Hunt. Dillon Waikle chipped in 10 kills and Kyler Presho added eight. Presho also led the team with six blocks. Kian Feiner had 27 assists and Sean Carroll had 20 digs. Bryce Curtis, who sprained his ankle recently, returned to the lineup and recorded six kills and seven digs.
Tritons Advance to CIF-SS Track and Field Prelims
For the first time in school history, the San Clemente boys track and field team captured a third consecutive league championship. The Tritons won the Sea View League team championship following its performance at the league finals meet on May 14.
The Tritons boys team will send 13 athletes to the CIF-SS Prelims at Trabuco Hills High School on May 14. The list of CIF-SS Prelims qualifiers includes: Jack Shippy (100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, 4x100-meter relay, long jump), Hunter Clark (400-meter, 4x400-meter relay), Connor Dunne (400-meter, 800-meter, 4x400-meter relay), Carlos deJesus (1,600-meter, 3,200-meter) Bennett Secrest (high jump), Aaron Nesbit (long jump, triple jump, 4x100-meter relay), Sean Kelsay (pole vault), Dade Amon (shot put, discus), Devon Barr (discus), Jeremy Brady (4x400-meter relay), Hayden Sanders (4x400-meter relay), Russell Donaldson (4x100-meter relay) and Austin Whitsett (4x100-meter relay).
The San Clemente girls track and field team took third place at the league finals and earned a second place overall finish in the Sea View League.
Anna Gillis placed first in both the shot put and discus throws. Chloe Patterson won the 100-meter hurdles. The list of other CIF-SS Prelims qualifiers includes: Julia Becker (high jump), Rylee Kerr (400-meter, 4x100-meter relay, 4x400-meter relay), Emilie Bennett (200-meter, 4x100-meter relay, 4x400-meter relay), Natalie Crapo (4x100-meter relay), Sidney Giles (4x100meter relay), Anezka DeGree (4x400-meter relay) and Marina McDonough (4x400meter relay).
Boys Tennis to Host JSerra in Opening Round of Playoffs
The San Clemente boys tennis team was scheduled to host JSerra in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 2 Championships on May 11. Results were not available at press time. San Clemente advanced to the Division 2 finals last season. SC
Bob Yoder was an All-American and won a national championship while playing for the University of Southern California men’s volleyball team. Photo: Courtesy
San Clemente’s Sean Kelsay won the Sea View League pole vaulting championship for a second straight year.
Photo: Rick Mueller
BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only
ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT
Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program
2411 S. El Camino Real, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com
APPLIANCES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
APPLIANCE SERVICES & REPAIRS
ASAP Appliance Service 3200 Legendario, 949.361.7713, www.asapapplianceservice.com
ART GALLERIES
San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
CHIROPRACTIC
Thompson Chiropractic 629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.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
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
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
HAULING
Cheapest Hauling
Call Robert 949.973.6288
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
Hoover Construction 949.292.6778
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
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD
1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
YOUR BUSINESS HERE!
Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!
Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online.
Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com
PLUMBING
A to Z Leak Detection San Clemente, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing 1218 Puerta Del Sol, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com
Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302
POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL
Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com
SC Pool & Spa Works 1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com
REAL ESTATE
Marcie GeorgeStar Real Estate South County 949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net
“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax 949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
SALONS
Salon Bamboo 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
Salon Bleu 207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com
Syrens Hair Parlor 217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
SCHOOLS
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org
SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
SWIMMING SCHOOL
Waterbabies Swim School 142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com
TERMITES
Colony Termite Control 1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
OBITUARY
Cory Dee Oldroyd, born August 21, 1961, died on Earth Day of 2016 of a prescribed depression medication overdose. Cory was a special education specialist at Vista Academy of Performing Arts Elementary School. Cory’s creative talent and artistic skills are imbedded in Beach Fire in San Clemente. He is survived by his mother, brother, sister, all of his beloved students, compassionate friends, and wife. Services are private. Please send any tokens of love or donations to the Behavior Health Institute at Loma Linda University in Cory Oldroyd’s name.
CLASSIFIEDS
Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com
SATURDAY MAY 21, 8:00AM-1PM 2853 Campo Raso, San Clemente
Great buys after estate sale, Curio and China cabinets, sofas, kitchen and patio tables and chairs, beds, refrigerator, washer/dryer. European tea/coffee cups, dining sets, lamps, chandeliers, linen and clothing. Signed oil paintings and prints, fine books and collector plates. Garden equipment and tools. All priced to sell!
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.
HIRING IN-HOME CARE ATTENDANT FOR LOCAL DISABLED Training provided, compassion needed (students welcome), DL license/background screened, FT/ PT, #800-811-9767 www.RainbowHomeCare.com
CURRENTLY SEEKING PRODUCTION FILLER WORKERS For mfg co. in San Clemente. 1st & 2nd shift, $12/hr. Temp to hire Call Mary @ Jobs Metro 714/8358555 mary@jobsmetroinc.com.
HAVE YOUR BBQ PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED FOR SUMMER! Go on to www.grillnshine.com and give us a try. Local business
HANDYMAN CHRIS
Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris –949 510 6645
WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD
Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris949 510 6645
Cory Dee Oldroyd
Local Surfers in Their Prime
San Clemente surfers claim season titles in three of six Surfing America Prime divisions at season finale
BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The invitation-only Surfing America
Prime regular season came to an exciting conclusion May 7 and 8 at Del Mar Beach on Camp Pendleton, finishing the 2015-2016 season where the tour first kicked off eight years ago. And although the names on the heat sheets have changed over the years, the series once again featured an impressive lineup of the country’s best U18 talent.
In a tight race for season champion titles, sur fers put their best feet forward for the final contest of the six-event season. Local surfers took top honors in three of five divisions.
San Clemente’s Kade Matson took the Boys U14 division champion title, rising to the top with a runner-up performance behind Dimitri Poulous (Ventura), 11.06 to 12.37, respectively.
Cole Houshmand, also from San Clemente, was crowned season champion following his winning performance in the event’s Boys U16 final, beating Noah Hill of Venice, 13.10 to 12.70.
Despite finishing in second place in the
GROM
event behind Micky Clark (Ventura), the Boys U18 season championship title was claimed by Carlsbad’s Jordan Collins. Collins and Clarke tied in the final with 12.33 points, and Clarke came out on top with a high single wave score of 8.5 over Collins’ 7.10. The Boys U18 season title race was extremely tight, with Jake Marshal of Encinitas ending the year only 75 points behind Collins.
In Girls U16 competition, Alyssa Spencer of Carlsbad finished with a perfect season (four of six event results count), taking her fourth win of the year. Kirra Pinkerton of San Clemente turned in a second-place finish in the final.
Caroline Marks (San Clemente), a Florida transplant, was crowned the Girls U18 champion, taking the event win over fellow San Clementean Kirra Pinkerton, 14.66 to 10.10.
Greg Cruse, executive director for the San Clemente-based Surfing America, said holding the sixth event of the season at Camp Pendleton, where the series kicked off back in 2008, was a great way to end the year, and the present caliber of talent bodes
OF THE WEEK HANA CATSIMANES
Hana Catsimanes, 13, of San Clemente is a determined multi-sport athlete and an accomplished scholar. This year, her first full competition season in the Scholastic Surf Series, Hana made a name for herself as a member of the champion Shorecliffs Division 1 middle school team, bringing home two wins, a second-place and a third-place finish. Her performance not only earned her the Girls Longboard champion title in Orange County middle school competition, but also the middle school state champion title.
Despite her late-season debut in the Western Surfing Association Tour, Hana ended the season as the No. 5-rated surfer in Girls U14 Longboard, finished No. 13 in a field of 21 in Open Women Longboard, and No. 15 of 25 in Girls U18 Longboard.
“I’m competitive so I like surfing in contests,” she said. “I love to surf, and I just think it’s really fun. I like surfing against other people because I feel like it makes me better. It’s a good way to practice, and it’s a good experience for me.”
Hana has also enjoyed playing soccer since the age of 5. As a part of the West Coast Futbol Club, she recently started
with a new team and is optimistic about the upcoming season.
“I think we’re going to be pretty good this year,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the new season. All the girls are good, and we have a great coach.”
She also runs cross country and track with the San Clemente Cross Country club team. In a February high school qualifier meet at Azusa Pacific University, she finished fi fth out of 47 high schoolers in the 1,500-meter race with a time of 4:57.
Hana is looking forward to trying out for all three sports at San Clemente High School next year. Although sports are an important part of her life, and she would “love the chance” to surf professionally in the future, Hana said her main focus in high school will be academics. A straightA student and a member of the National Junior Honor Society, Hana said her top goal for the next four years is earning acceptance into a good college.
Right now, however, she is counting the days until summer break, amped at the prospect of having an abundance of free time to work on her surfing.
“I’m so excited for summer,” she said.
well for the organization’s future.
“What was started as a means for Surfing America to give the best junior surfers in the country preparation to compete at the pro level with four-man, 20-minute heats, computer scoring, professional judges and now the addition of four-man priority, will soon become the training grounds for future Olympians as we have applied for USOC membership and surfing is on track to be announced as an Olympic Sport in Tokyo 2020,” Cruse said. “We now have
“I just want to surf a lot and try to get as good as I can for high school tr youts.”
She also pointed out that she realizes how much her parents do for her in helping her follow her dreams and wanted to take this opportunity to express her appreciation to them.
“Thanks for always helping me and suppor ting me and my decisions,” Hana said. “And thanks for taking me to faraway soccer games, paying my entry fees and taking me to surf competitions. I love you so much.” —Andrea
Swayne
seven surfers who came up through the Surfing America Prime Series, USA Surfing Championships at Lower Trestles and USA Junior Sur f Team, on the World Surf League Championship Tour: Courtney Conlogue, Kolohe Andino, Nat Young, Lakey Peterson, Sage Erickson, Kanoa Igarashi and Conner Coffin. The Surfing America Prime ranks are still chock-full of up-and-coming talent. The system is working and the future looks bright for surfing in America. SC
SURF FORECAST
Water Temperature: 61-64 degrees F Thursday: Overlapping SSW swells with small NW swell mixing in. Most breaks through the region are in the knee-waist-chest high zone, as standout combo magnets pull in sets up to shoulder high. Light winds early with onshore flow building through the afternoon.
Outlook: Primary SW swell blends with secondary NW swell mix through the weekend with surf in the 3-4’+ zone. Winds/conditions look suspect though with mainly onshore flow each day, looking lightest early in the mornings. Stay tuned and check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.
RESULTS
Hana Catsimanes. Photo: Courtesy
Cole Houshmand of San Clemente surfed his way to a Surfing America Prime Boys U16 season champion title at event No. 6, May 7 and 8 at Camp Pendleton. Photo: Surfing America/Jack McDaniel
Surfing America Prime, Event No. 6, May 7-8, Camp Pendleton, DMJ
BOYS U14: 1. Dimitri Poulos, Ventura; 2, Kade Matson, San Clemente; 3. Taro Watanabe, Ventura; 4. Dane Matson, San Clemente. BOYS U16: 1. Cole Houshmand, San Clemente; 2. Noah Hill, Venice; 3. Tyler Gunter, Newport Beach; 4. Sage Burke, Newport Beach. BOYS U18: 1. Micky Clarke, Ventura; 2. Jordan Collins, Carlsbad; 3. Jake Marshall, Encinitas; 4. Eithan Osborne, Ventura. GIRLS U16: 1. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad; 2. Kirra Pinkerton, San Clemente; 3. Rachel Presti, Florida; 4. Caroline Marks, San Clemente. GIRLS U18: 1. Caroline Marks, San Clemente; 2. Kirra Pinkerton, San Clemente; 3. Samantha Sibley, San Clemente; 4. Autumn Hays, Santa Cruz.
