May 26, 2022

MAY 26-JUNE 1, 2022 | VOLUME 17, ISSUE 21

L O C A L

N E W S

Y O U

C A N

INSIDE: Special Section

U S E

Emphasizing Education Municipalities Utilize Education-First Approach to E-Bikes E Y E O N S C / PAG E 7

As electric bikes rise in popularity, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, school resource officers and cities are emphasizing an education-first approach to addressing reckless ridership. Photo: Jacqueline Garrett

sanclementetimes.com

Council Considering City’s Downtown Businesses Consider Caroline Hawkes Advances to Proposed FY 2023 Budget Community Benefit District State Track Championships EYE ON SC/ PAGE 3

EYE ON SC/PAGE 4

SPORTS/PAGE 32

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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EYE ON SC

What’s Up With...

TOP NEWS SAN CLEMENTE SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Council to Review Proposed FY 2023 Budget

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

The San Clemente City Council this week was set to review a draft of the city’s $136.1 million budget for the next fiscal year.

Councilmembers on Wednesday, May 25, were scheduled to discuss the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget, which—pending their approval next month—would go into effect on July 1. The budget proposal comes as the current fiscal year, when the city saw significant economic growth in and around San Clemente as more pandemic-related restrictions were lifted, draws to a close.

Based on the budget, the city is projecting an even brighter future and facing a positive operating position over the next five years, while maintaining a “AAA” bond rating from Standard and Poor’s, marking a capacity to meet financial commitments.

In City Manager Erik Sund’s introduction letter to the council, he noted a balanced operating budget that will remain “conservative,” as staff anticipates higher activity levels and recognizes the need to fund public safety, technological improvements, and other potential cost increases.

“Although concerns still exist, such as the energy prices and inflation, the overall economic outlook is positive,” Sund added.

According to the budget, which outlines the council’s top goals, or strategic priorities, for the coming fiscal year, city staff will look to “ensure financial stability”; “grow resident confidence and value in city services”; “update and maintain infrastructure”; “improve and maintain strong staff recruitment and retention”; and maintain a “strong approach to digital transformation.”

For FY 2023, the city is looking to have a total operating budget of $136.1 million, a $9.3 million increase from the previous year, according to the city.

As for the General Fund, the city is expected to receive nearly $76.6 million in revenue, up $6.1 million from this fiscal year’s adopted budget. About 79% of the anticipated revenue comes from from tax collections.

Growth in assessed valuations, development, and property resale activity is projected to result in $41 million in the form of property taxes, a roughly 6.5% rise from the current fiscal year. About 54% of the city’s overall General Fund revenue will come from property taxes.

And based on anticipated consumer spending in the coming fiscal year, sales taxes are expected to generate $13 million in revenue for the city, up from the $11.5 million initially projected in this year’s budget.

SC Woman Enters Plea Agreement, Admitting to Entering Capitol During Jan. 6 Riot

months and a five-year probation term, as well as a $5,000 fine.

With McNicoll agreeing to a plea deal, prosecutors agreed to drop three other criminal counts she was charged with, including entering and remaining in a restricted building; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building; and violent entry and disorderly conduct in a Capitol Building.

According to her Statement of Offense, McNicoll—who at the time of arrest was a Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services employee—traveled to Washington, D.C. to show former President Trump her support and listen to his speech at The Ellipse.

While Congress was meeting that day for a joint session to certify the results of the 2020 election, a march on the Capitol following Trump’s speech turned violent when rioters forced their way into the building, breaking windows and assaulting police officers.

McNicoll, in court records, acknowl-

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

A woman who was facing multiple charges related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6 insurrection has agreed to a plea deal with federal prosecutors this week in which she admits to entering the restricted grounds.

Lois Lynn McNicoll, who was arrested last June, pleaded guilty on Monday, May 23, to parading, demonstrating or picketing in a Capitol Building, according to the latest federal court filings.

The violation, the plea deal noted, carries a maximum prison sentence of six San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Councilmembers on Wednesday, May 25, were scheduled to review the city’s proposed $136.1 million budget for Fiscal Year 2023. Photo: File

Page 3

Along with those funding sources, revenue from recreation and marine safety fees, and parking permit and meter collections further comprise the city’s General Fund monies, which are also expected to increase this year.

The budget report explained that the economy’s return to the anticipated steady growth before the pandemic hit is a reason for the city’s optimistic outlook.

“This economic growth conversely has led to growth housing prices, which are anticipated to grow in the 4-6% range and retail sales remain strong as the pandemic restriction easing has increased demand for items and also dining and restaurants,” the budget stated. “These areas of economic growth bode well for the City, as property and sales taxes are major revenue categories improving the outlook for the City of San Clemente.”

Continued development in the Marblehead community, specifically at the Outlets at San Clemente, as well as in other areas of San Clemente, will also be beneficial, the city stated.

Spending-wise, the budget lists a General Fund expenditure total of $81.2 million, a marginal decrease from the city’s adjusted FY 2022 budget of $81.3 million. The current budget previously set General Fund expenditures at $73.65 million.

More than a quarter of the city’s planned General Fund expenditures—$1.3 million, or about 26.2%— are allocated toward Police Services.

Another $19.2 million (23.6%) will go to Public Works, $14.1 million (17.4%) is earmarked for Fire Services, $8.8 million will fund General Government costs, and $6.3 million is to be spent on Community Development.

(Cont. on page 4)

edged her participation in the breach, entering the west side of the Capitol, a restricted area of the Capitol grounds.

She later entered the Capitol through the Senate Wing Door, which had earlier been broken into by rioters.

“McNicoll stood in the vicinity of the Senate Wing Door for a period, talking with unidentified people and recording videos, before walking south and into the Capitol Crypt,” according to the Statement of Offense that further noted she stayed in the Crypt for about 30 minutes, until police officers directed her to leave through the Memorial Door.

“Lois Lynn McNicoll knew at the time she entered the Capitol that she did not have permission to enter the building,” the court filing concluded. “While inside the Capitol, McNicoll paraded, demonstrated, or picketed.”

Authorities last year were tipped off to McNicoll’s participation in the breach by two witnesses. McNicoll had been iden-

tified, in a social media post, wearing a white hat adorned with the former President’s name, “TRUMP.” The social media post, which originated from the news station ABC/7, also showed McNicoll wearing a white and gray jacket while a red and white flag was draped over her shoulders, the federal complaint noted.

Both witnesses, fellow DPSS employees, had separately submitted the same screenshot of the post to the FBI’s national tip line, and were each later interviewed by an agent, confirming McNicoll was captured in the image.

During a May 2021 interview with the FBI, McNicoll, as outlined in the complaint, said she marched with a large group to the Capitol and entered through doors that had already been forced open. She also claimed that “she was somewhat unaware of what was going on around her.”

McNicoll is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 3. sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Downtown Business Owners Discussing Community Benefit District Concept

mally the responsibility of the business or the property owner,” Li Mandri explained about how community benefit districts are valuable.

“Now, the City of San Clemente does much more than a lot of other cities,” he continued. “It has the hanging plants, it’s got the nice little seating areas, but it doesn’t necessarily create demand for the businesses and properties that are within that area.”

Benefit districts work to get more people coming through the doors of retailers, restaurants, and bars, and to tell the surrounding areas about all the assets a certain area has.

Potential projects include clean-

ing and sanitation of the sidewalks and other important areas, as well as beautification, marketing, and parking management.

The most recent meeting on the proposal focused on determining the boundaries for a study area, in which a survey was scheduled be mailed out on Wednesday, May 25, and Thursday, May 26, to know if property owners are “conceptually supportive” of a financing mechanism tied to the property-tax bill.

“The assessments, if they’re approved eventually by the property owners, can only be spent within that area and can only fund things that are over and above what the City of San Clemente is

providing to downtown,” Li Mandri said.

Meeting attendees determined that they will include the Pier Bowl, Avenida Del Mar and the streets that bracket it, including Avenida Cabrillo and Avenida Granada, and El Camino Real.

The survey will also look to identify each of the property owners so that a steering committee of various stakeholders knows with whom it needs to work, to learn people’s priority services, and to gather data for further communication.

At the end of the first five months of Li Mandri’s contract with the city, he will write a report of his findings from the meetings and survey results for the city manager that describes whether a base of support exists to write a district plan.

“When you’re making this determination, you cannot look at assessed valuation, because we have Prop. 13; you have to look at what does each building and property have in common,” he said.

“They all have linear frontage, they have a lot size, and they have building square footage.”

Li Mandri added that the determination rates all the owners’ support or opposition, with the goal of getting 30% of the total linear frontage, lot size, and building square footage, because he believes that he can work to raise that level of support to get the official “50% plus one” majority of owners to support the district.

Funding for the community benefit district would come through a line item on owners’ property-tax bills, which would then be collected by the county, transferred to the city, and then to a nonprofit corporation that would be contracted by the city to use.

Property owners within the study area will be asked to return their surveys by June 17, at which point the steering committee will find who has not yet responded, hoping to get every response possible by late June to mid-July.

The responses will be distributed to steering committee members, leading to Li Mandri’s eventual analysis.

“other charges” will rise 17%, because of the upcoming Primary and General Elections.

In his letter, Sund noted the current difficulties of recruiting, and that the city used funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to fund positions across multiple departments and improve staffing levels. He added that the city will have to balance service levels with the remaining vacancies.

“The City is starting to recruit for previously vacant positions to staff facilities; these vacancies were maintained to provide cost mitigation measures during the pandemic and as a result of lower activity levels,” the city stated in the budget.

Capital Improvement Program spending will account for $14.3 million of the budget, declining $7.1 million from last year. The budget includes 31 projects, 43% of which concern the streets, 19% regarding water, and 15% involving parks and medians.

Arterial Street Pavement Maintenance will cost $1.5 million, as will Street Improvement Projects, and $1.2 million will go toward the Calle Real Pump Station Rehabilitation.

There are also 38 maintenance projects that will be funded at a cost of $8.7 million.

Excluding capital outlay, one-time transfers, and other one-time costs, the

General Fund operating budget is $75.2 million, while the operating revenues total $75.6 million. Therefore, the General Fund is anticipated to have a surplus of $422,820, according to the city.

Starting with FY 2022-23, the city’s five-year financial forecast—while utilizing numerous assumptions—projects a surplus each year, although never above $1 million.

The council was scheduled to meet to review the budget at 3 p.m. on Wednesday at the San Clemente Community Center, after San Clemente Times’ publishing deadline. The online version of this story will be updated to include details from Wednesday afternoon’s meeting.

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

In an attempt to further strengthen the health of the downtown areas in San Clemente, local business owners have recently met with a consultant to determine the viability of creating a special district.

Community benefit districts—as Marco Li Mandri, a consultant and president of New City America, would call them—use funding to provide services beyond the city’s general benefits, create demand for visitors, and shape a district identity that allows for future success.

Li Mandri has operated in the industry since 1995, and he has been involved with about 90 similar district projects across Southern California and the nation.

A few months ago, an interaction between Li Mandri and Economic Development Director Jonathan Lightfoot of the City of San Clemente started the process, as Lightfoot relayed how local business and property owners liked what was happening with the revitalization of Little Italy in San Diego—an area in which New City America has been involved.

Although Downtown San Clemente had not been hit as hard as other cities during the pandemic, Li Mandri was asked to present a proposal to help the city strengthen its business district. That led to a meeting with the San Clemente Downtown Business Association leaders, who wanted to look into the process of establishing such a district.

Meetings began on May 2, followed by another on May 16, which had fewer attendees but did include good discussion, as Li Mandri pointed out.

“Normally, a city will provide curbto-curb (services), which is basically the street, and curb-to-property line is nor-

(Cont. from page 3) Spending on public safety services— police, fire and marine safety—is up $3.5 million from the adopted FY 2022 budget, with marine safety, in particular, growing from $2 million to $2.1 million.

The city in the budget explained that the contractual services for public safety represented a 4-6% increase, partly to account for additional body-worn camera costs and phasing in the city’s requirement of adding a fourth firefighter to fire truck crews.

Legal and other contractual services, the city added, will decrease in the coming fiscal year, keeping overall contractual services “flat.” Spending on San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Business and property owners near downtown San Clemente are in the process of determining whether to create a district to strengthen the area. Photo: Fred Swegles

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EYE ON SC

Municipalities Emphasize Education-First Approach to E-Bikes

BY BREEANA GREENBERG, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

s electric bikes rise in popularity, local state and city leaders, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, along with school resource officers, are emphasizing an education-first approach to addressing community concerns of reckless ridership.

Assemblymember Laurie Davies, for instance, introduced legislation earlier this year that would further promote school districts to partner with law enforcement agencies to provide safe riding education for electric and motorized bikes.

In San Juan Capistrano, the city’s Police Services is working with school resource officers to develop a program requiring kids to verify that they’re wearing their helmets and riding an age-appropriate bike.

And in Dana Point, Mayor Joe Muller is spearheading a proposed program that looks to require kids 16 and younger to complete an e-bike safety course.

The ongoing education efforts come as the City of San Clemente’s e-bike ban on beaches, the Beach Trail, and the Municipal Pier recently went into effect.

When reached for comment on the latest details of the ban, San Clemente Assistant to the City Manager Jennifer Savage wrote in an email that the city has focused primarily on education, with enforcement beginning Memorial Day weekend.

The city on Thursday, May 27, is looking to further promote such education and safe riding by hosing another Bike Safety Rodeo for children 5 and older at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park.

Earlier this month, Davies hosted a separate bike and e-bike safety event at Dana Hills High School in partnership with California Highway Patrol, OCSD and the three South County cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan.

“It’s really about education,” Davies said. “I mean, this is a great way for kids to get around; it’s getting them out of the house, away from the video games, getting exercise, being able to be around others.”

Municipalities began to notice that a lack of education and awareness of rules on e-bikes arose during the COVID-19 pandemic—when e-bikes continued to rise in popularity.

Incident data obtained from the Orange County Fire Authority show San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

As electric bikes rise in popularity, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, school resource officers and cities are emphasizing an education-first approach to addressing reckless ridership. Photo: Jacqueline Garrett

that there have been 84 e-bike-related incidents within its contract cities since 2021, when the agency started tracking such information.

Four e-bike-related incidents occurred in San Juan and nine in Dana Point, while San Clemente has seen 20 incidents occur.

As public safety officials saw accidents increase, Davies said she realized the problem was rooted in a lack of education.

“I don’t think there’s a consistency of what the rules of the road are,” Davies said. “Some are being told to be on the sidewalk, some are told they can’t be on the sidewalk.”

To address concerns in Dana Point, Muller has proposed a program, which he brought up during the Dana Point City Council’s May 3 meeting, that would require e-bike riders under 16 in the city to show proof of completing a safety course if pulled over by law enforcement.

Muller said that the overall problem of reckless riding likely won’t get any better until kids and parents start seeing consequences.

“If we are able to make it mandatory, and parents start seeing—off the top of my head, this is totally off the wall—if we were to confiscate a bike, and they had to come back and pay a fine to get it . . . $500, $1,000 . . . that’s going to actually

send a warning signal, get the kids in this class,” Muller said.

Ideally, he added, he’d like legislation to be passed at the state level with a program similar to how California law requires all boaters to complete a safety exam and carry a California Boater Card.

In late April, the Assembly voted unanimously to pass Davies’ legislation, Assembly Bill 2028. The measure amends existing law that authorizes school districts to partner with law enforcement and public agencies to provide bike safety education by revising the list of vehicles to also include e-bikes, motorized bikes and motorized scooters.

“We want to be able to make sure that everybody’s educated, and now that, hopefully, this bill will go through, we can work together with our partners at (the Orange County Transit Authority).

They’ve been fantastic, along with law enforcement, our schools and our parents,” Davies said.

The measure is now over at the State Senate, where it awaits an Education Committee hearing on June 8. In the meantime, Davies has encouraged local jurisdictions to develop their own programs.

“Sometimes, we get a little tunnel vision in our own world here in our cities,” Muller said at the May 14 bike safety Page 7

event. “(Davies) said you need to start talking to other cities, San Clemente, San Juan; make it consistent around South County, countywide.”

Though Muller hopes to require kids younger than 16 to undergo an e-bike safety class and receive a certification, he is not in favor of requiring a license to operate e-bikes.

“It’s really more, making sure that parents understand that this is an important class,” he said. “You need to make sure your kids take it if you give them an e-bike.”

He added that he’s not sure yet what the penalty would be for not completing the safety program, whether there would be impounding of bicycles, what the grace period would look like to start, or even if he had the votes on his council to pass it.

“It’s just a discussion we’re having; we’ll probably put it on one of our June meetings, maybe July,” Muller said. “I’ve thought a lot about this; it’s the No. 1 complaint I get in the city.”

Rafael Reynosa, a public information officer for California Highway Patrol, said that it would be difficult to get all kids riding e-bikes under 16 to complete a safety course, but that “if we have some joint effort between the state, county, local municipalities, I think it can be done.”

(Cont. on page 8) sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

(Cont. from page 7) Reynosa added that since e-bikes are relatively new, CHP has focused primarily on educating riders.

“We’re trying to focus more on education over giving them a citation, but when we see them, officers—and I’m sure deputies do as well—we stop them, educate them, tell them they can’t be doing this, whether they’re going too fast or riding without a helmet or riding with passengers when they’re not supposed to,” Reynosa said.

Passengers are not allowed on any bike unless it is a tandem bike or has a built-in seat.

Doheny Bike owner Jason Spates said he’s not in favor of a licensing or registration, but he agreed that the problem with reckless riders lies in a lack of education.

“There’s a lot of negligent circumstances where you see kids in turning lanes and things like that, and you wonder who’s telling you how to respect the right of way, the rules of the road, stay off the sidewalk, don’t be going 30 miles an hour when pedestrians are around,” Spates said. “Very common-sense things.”

“I don’t know if registering the e-bikes would regulate that, but there may be a way to get in contact more with parents and maintain that relationship with the adults, so that it eventually helps to solve problems before we have problems,” Spates continued.

Spates said Doheny Bike does not sell e-bikes to kids under 16.

“We, as a company, don’t cater to young riders of our bikes,” Spates said.

“We ask that riders be 16 years of age.”

He added that most of his clientele are older, using the bikes for mobility.

In reference to San Clemente’s ordinance restricting e-bikes on the Beach Trail, Spates said the city needed to address concerns of reckless e-bike riders without an all-out ban.

“We don’t want to go the way of San Clemente, where they start restricting access and mobility of the bikes,” Spates said.

Earlier this year, San Clemente City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting electric bicycles on the beach, Beach Trail, and the Municipal Pier. Enforcement of the ban will require a coordinated effort from the city’s Beaches, Parks, and Recreation Department, Park Rangers, Code Enforcement and Marine Safety, as well as OCSD. “For me, it’s about safety education,” Spates said. “I’d rather be on the good side of the narrative than the bad side of the narrative, and as a company, you don’t see kids on our bikes, and that was done on purpose. I don’t want to be part of that narrative of the problem in town; I want to be part of the solution.”

Doheny Bike has offered helmet giveSan Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

E-BIKE INCIDENTS

COMMUNITY MEETINGS THURSDAY, MAY 26

Rotary Club of San Clemente 5-6 p.m. The Rotary Club of San Clemente meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month at the Outlets at San Clemente’s VIP Lounge.

101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. sanclementerotary.org SATURDAY, MAY 28

Challenging Cancer 10-11:30 a.m. The Challenging Cancer group is conducting weekly meetings through Zoom video conferences. The meetings are open to caregivers, people who have a compromised immune system, and people dealing with cancer.

To join, email donnavigil2@gmail.com or linda_crdv@yahoo.com. heritagesc.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 31 According to incident data from the Orange County Fire Authority, there have been 84 e-bike-related incidents within its contract cities since 2021, which is when the agency started tracking such information. Among the three South County cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente has seen the most incidents occur. Graphic: Chelsie Rex

aways in order to promote safe riding and the importance of wearing a helmet.

During the bike safety event at Dana Hills High, Davies emphasized the need to involve kids, parents, public safety, OCTA and California Highway Patrol in addressing reckless riders.

“I think we should go by county, because one size doesn’t always fit all,” Davies said. “But what we need to do is we need to work together with OCTA, who does a lot of great bike safety. We need parents there, because we need to educate them as well.”

Dana Point School Resources Deputy Joy MacDonald is primarily assigned to Dana Hills High, as well as some of the elementary schools and private schools in the area. As e-bikes have boomed in popularity, OCSD has stressed bike safety education, holding information sessions and bike and e-bike rodeos.

“They’ve just grown so popular so quickly, so we’re kind of playing catch-up, but we’ve done what we can to put the education out there,” MacDonald said.

“We definitely follow a model of education before enforcement, but at the end of the day, we need to make sure that people are staying safe and that people know the rules of the road.”

“Now, you’re giving kids these high-powered machines, and they don’t know the rules of the road,” MacDonald added. “Although it is a great thing to have and it’s a great resource, ultimately, they still need to be held accountable to making sure that they’re safe and others are safe.”

MacDonald also discussed some of the Page 8

trends she’s seen with e-bike riders.

“What I’m seeing is people aren’t following the rules of the road,” MacDonald said. “If you buy your kid an e-bike, you want to make sure that they’re following the rules of the road and that they’re operating it safely.

“A lot of that is riding on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic, and using your hand signals and making eye contact when you approach intersections,” MacDonald continued. “A lot of times, otherwise, they’ll just kind of blow through intersections or make turns, and it startles cars, and that can cause accidents.”

She added that it’s important to always wear a helmet and make sure to wear reflective clothing when riding at night.

“Lastly, one thing that we’ve been dealing with at the high school that’s really caused some problems, there’s these new electric dirt bikes that came out, and you actually need an M1 motorcycle license to ride them,” MacDonald said.

“So, you go to these bike shops and you see all these cool bikes, and you go, ‘Oh, I want that one,’ but you want to make sure you know what kind of bike you’re buying.”

There are three classes of e-bikes.

Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assisted only and reach a maximum speed of 20 mph.

Class 2 e-bikes also can only reach a maximum speed of 20 mph; however, they have a throttle that can boost a rider’s speed even when they are not pedaling.

Class 3 e-bikes, which are also ped-

Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing (e.g., failure to launch, drug abuse, disrespect), will continue conducting its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com.

San Clemente Toastmasters 7-8:40 p.m. The Toastmasters Club invites people to lose their fear of public speaking and have fun at the same time.

Join them in person every Tuesday at the Baha’i Center, at 3316 Avenida del Presidente. Visitors welcomed. Call or text Laura Yang at 949.547.6558 with questions. 6463.toastmastersclubs.org.

al-assisted but do not have a throttle, stop providing motor assistance when the bike reaches 28 mph. Kids under 16 are not allowed to ride Class 3 e-bikes.

San Juan Capistrano Police Services noted that it has seen kids under 16 illegally riding a Class 3 e-bike to school.

Officers noted at the bike safety event that their plan is to promote education first over the summer, make sure kids are riding safely and enforce as needed.

They also discussed a program in development, in coordination with school resource officers, that would require kids to have their bikes inspected by OCSD and receive an educational pamphlet on the rules of the road in order to park their bikes on campus. The inspection would also ensure that kids under 16 are not riding Class 3 e-bikes.

The police services hope to have this program running by next school year. SC sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

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San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

ecological, social, and economic well-being of coastal communities.

This brown alga has an alter ego. Face value displays a beautiful habitat for those undersea denizens of the deep, while this kelp is working overtime absorbing carbon dioxide and nitrogen compounds, helping clean the atmosphere. Those terrestrial trees are great, but kelp captures up to 20 times more carbon per acre than land forests.

Removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere will play a necessary role in preventing rising temperatures and future climate catastrophe. We need more kelp to multiply these positive effects.

Our coastline is no stranger to artificial reefs. Just look to the east and west off San Clemente Pier and you will see the canopy generated by the foundation of Wheeler North Reef. We have made great strides over the years toward encouraging kelp growth through the establishment of artificial reefs and, in some cases, a sprinkling of kelp spores helps those barren reefs.

Yet, because of a combination of stressors, kelp forests are under threat and have declined close to home.

Recently, the robust El Niño event produced a “Blob” of warm ocean water

GUEST OPINION | Climate Education

by Julianne E. Steers

Plant the Sea? S

ubmerge beneath the sea, look up, and you may think you are enveloped by trees. Kelp, the sea’s equivalent to trees.

More than a mere seaweed, giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) is the foundation for an entire ocean ecosystem, towering up from the seafloor to tangled canopies on the surface, offering nutrients and shelter to fish, lobsters, and marine mammals.

Kelp forests are CLIMATE EDUCATION highly productive

BY JULIANNE E. STEERS foundation species along much of the Orange County coastline. As a result, kelp is crucial to the

Letters to The Editor

have selected that artist? Or if he painted a signature self-portrait that was offensive to the LGBTQ community, would the board have chosen that artist? Of course not.

Mr. Gonzalez’s anti-Christian bias does not represent our San Clemente community, and I would ask the board to reconsider their decision and make a better choice, one that will unite, not divide, our community.

OFFENSIVE, ANTI-CHRISTIAN OCEAN FESTIVAL NEW ARTIST SELECTED JULIENNE CHENÉ, San Clemente

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CITY COUNCIL AND TO MIKE LEVIN ROGER JOHNSON, San Clemente

My husband and I are huge fans of the SC Times, and as an award-winning journalist and best-selling author, I personally want to thank you for your excellent coverage of news in San Clemente and South Orange County for many years.

We are also big supporters of the Ocean Festival and buy a T-shirt every year.

My concern is the new artist who has been “unanimously” selected by the board of the San Clemente Ocean Festival. Please see his “self-portrait” that was prominently featured on the main page of his website.

This self-portrait is shocking and offensive, as he depicts himself being crucified like Jesus on a surfboard and paint brushes, and giving us the middle finger. This is wildly offensive to all Christians, Catholics, Protestants, Evangelicals and more.

If Mr. (Roy) Gonzalez did a painting that was offensive to all Muslims in our community, would the Ocean Fest committee

Congratulations are in order for the City Council, who voted, 5-0, that the city does not give consent to store nuclear waste from SONGS in San Clemente.

Many don’t realize that, according to the U.S. government, San Clemente is the official home of the 1,609 metric tons of highly radioactive uranium now stored here, nuclear waste which will be lethal for hundreds of thousands of years.

A special thanks to Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan for spearheading this issue. It is significant, because the U.S. Department of Energy claims it will not store nuclear waste in areas where there is no local consent.

Thanks also need to be extended to our own Congressman Mike Levin (CA-49), who recently helped get legislation passed

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Join SC Times for Beachside Chat on Friday, May 27, at 8 a.m.

The chat will be held at Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria.

All are welcome.

that disrupted the West Coast marine ecosystem and declined growth of our undersea forests.

Active restoration of kelp ecosystems is an emerging field that aims to reverse these declines by mitigating negative stressors. Just as we plant more trees, our underwater forests may be “seeded” as well.

Planting and protecting our coastal ecosystem will strengthen our future.

Julianne Steers is a marine biologist and conservation photographer. She has an extensive background in ecology, and has been researching, diving, and exploring the local ecosystem and beyond to sustain the natural world. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared.

The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

in Congress and signed by the President, which is intended to fund the National Academy of Sciences proposal for research on cancer streaks for those who live within 50 kilometers of a nuclear power plant.

The epidemiological study looks to examine cancer incidents for those living between Huntington Beach and Solana Beach.

Studies in Europe have reported such a link, but there has been no research in the United States on this for over 30 years, partly because the NRC refused to fund the National Academy of Sciences’ proposal.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Based on a review of the legislation, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has only been encouraged by lawmakers to contract with the National Academy of Sciences to carry out the pilot study.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

wristbands at the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce leading up to the Trolley Hop day. Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, 34183 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite A, Dana Point. 949.496.1555. info@danapointchamber.com.

THE ‘FUTURE IS FEMALE’ COMEDY SHOW 8-10 p.m. Enjoy a night of laughter and libations at Knuckleheads. See the most talented comedians you never knew existed from L.A., Orange County and Las Vegas. This free, star-studded show has one of the most diverse comedy lineups. Knuckleheads Sports Bar, 1717 North El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

The List What’s going on in and around town this week

SATURDAY | 28

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Get a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday! Sign up for The Weekender at sanclementetimes.com/weekender

THURSDAY | 26 U-PICK AT SOUTH COAST FARMS 10 a.m.-4 p.m. South Coast Farms in San Juan Capistrano will offer visitors a chance to pick fresh strawberries this spring. The farm is open for “U-Pick” from Thursdays through Sundays. There is an entrance fee of $5 per car. Walkins are welcome; no reservations are needed. After picking, berries are $5 per pound. South Coast Farms, 33201 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano. southcoastfarms.com.

PEP4U 10:45-11:45 a.m. Age Well offers this weekly class that will include activities that specifically address common movement challenges for those living with Parkinson’s disease. Led by Matt Bustillos, PT, DPT, a physical therapist of 30 years who lives with Parkinson’s himself, the activities will feature aerobics, strength, flexibility, posture, coordination, balance, cognition, and fun. All persons with Parkinson’s and their care partners are encouraged to attend. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. 949.498.3322.

BIKE SAFETY RODEO 3-5 p.m. Children ages 5 and older are invited to participate in this event, hosted by the Beaches, Parks, and Recreation Department in partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Celebrate Bicycle Safety Month by participating in fun giveaways and educational San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Editor’s Pick Photo: Shawn Raymundo

MONDAY | 30 SAN CLEMENTE MEMORIAL DAY OBSERVANCE 11 a.m.-noon. Join community leaders at the San Clemente Community Center to commemorate fallen veterans. Members of the public are invited to bring memorabilia of their fallen loved ones to exhibit at the Memorial Display area. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to come early in order to find parking. The keynote speaker is Lance Corporal Keene Sherburne, retired from the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines. Email recreation@san-clemente.org if you know a deceased service member who should be honored at the event. 100 N Calle Seville, San Clemente.

opportunities that teach about obeying traffic laws, sharing the roadways, and hazards to bicycle and electric bicycle riders. Pre-registration is required, and parents must accompany children ages 5-8. Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente.

949.361.8264. san-clemente.org.

ZUGGY ETC.’S POP-UP SHOP BY JOSHUA PASKOWITZ 6-8 p.m. Join Collective Energy Center as it opens its doors for a very special PopUp Shop. Every purchase made employs young adults with special needs. There will be a chat about employing adult members of the spectrum community, community action and kindness. While enjoying the art adorning the center’s walls created by Joshua Paskowitz, visitors can also shop handmade T-shirts, sweatshirts, aprons, totes, accessory bags and surfboard sleeves. Collective Energy Center, 2015 Avenida Del Mar, Suites K&L, San Clemente. zuggyetc.com. collectiveenergycenter.com.

FRIDAY | 27 HORSE SHOW AT RMV RIDING PARK 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Equestrian enthusiasts and local community members can check

out horses in action during a hunter/ jumper show in town, hosted by the Southern California Horseman’s Council.

The show runs through Sunday, May 29.

The Rancho Mission Viejo Riding Park, 30753 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano. 760.525.8933. theridingpark.com.

FIELD OF HONOR 9 a.m-4 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano is again partnering with Homefront of America to display American flags in the Mission courtyard in celebration of Memorial Day. More than 400 flags, each standing at 7 feet, will be available to view. Active-duty service members, veterans, first responders and Mission Preservation Society members will receive free admission to the Mission during the Field of Honor display, which runs through May 30. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

DANA POINT TROLLEY HOP 3-7 p.m. Help the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce welcome and kick off the arrival of the Dana Point Trolley by visiting participating restaurants for exclusive drink offers. Trolley Hop riders (21 years or older) must purchase a $10 wristband to access the exclusive drink specials. Trolley riders will pick up their Page 10

SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee, dubbed the world’s biggest weekly car meet, attracts a mix of 500-1,000 hypercars, supercars, exotics, vintage, classic, muscle and sports cars, hot rods, rat rods, pickups, 4x4s and motorcycles.

Those attending are encouraged to practice responsible social distancing.

Face masks are not mandatory but are recommended. No cars in before 8:30 a.m. Cars should enter and leave slowly and quietly—no revving, speeding or burnouts. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com.

MEMORIAL WEEKEND HIKE 9-11 a.m. Hike down from the San Mateo Campground to Trestles Beach with San Onofre and San Clemente State Beach Senior Park Aide and naturalist Heather Rice. The trek will pass by the memorial of Sgt. John Basilone. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and hiking shoes. 830 Cristianitos Road, San Clemente.

LOW-COST PET VACCINE CLINIC 3:30-5 p.m. Pets Plus San Clemente offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats every month. All veterinary services are provided by Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc. Vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams, and diagnostic testing available on-site. 638 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente. 1.800.988.8387. vetcarepetclinic.com.

SUNDAY | 29 FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers at the Community Center/San Clemente Public Library parking lot. 100 North Calle Seville.

949.361.8200. san-clemente.org. sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

MONDAY | 30 MEMORIAL DAY REMEMBRANCE AND PLAQUE DEDICATION 2-3 p.m. The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation will hold a ceremony at the Marine Monument at Park Semper Fi to dedicate a bronze plaque in honor of the 13 Americans—including 11 from the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines based at Camp Pendleton—who were killed in the August 2021 attack on an airport in Afghanistan. All active and retired armed service members are invited, as is the general public. Park Semper Fi, 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.280.7752. marinemonument.com.

TUESDAY | 31 DANCE AND MOVEMENT FOR TOTS 10:15-11 a.m. Enjoy a fun dance class series made for tots outdoors in Casa Romantica’s seaside Redmond Amphitheater. The price is $50 for the public (free for Family Household Members).

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

AT THE MOVIES

‘Men’ Will Be Men

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

lex Garland’s new film, titled simply Men, is the latest in what I guess we can categorize as “#metoo movies.”

Unlike Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel (2021) or Jay Roach’s Bombshell (2019), Men starts as a drama about a woman grieving, before turning into a psychological thriller and then ending with full-on body horror in the climax.

Garland, who started his film career strictly as a screenwriter, has carried his trademark themes and tones into his directorial work. As far as quality goes, Men is a doozy to say the least, even if you’re familiar with his previous work.

Needing some fresh air and peace of mind after witnessing her soon-to-be ex-husband James (Paapa Essiedu) commit suicide while they’re in the process of divorcing, Harper (Jessie Buckley) takes a small vacation in the countryside of England.

What she isn’t expecting to come with the nice, homey house she’s renting is an eerie and surreal atmosphere to linger throughout the visit.

Rory Kinnear plays the landlord of the place

Photo: Courtesy of A24

that Harper is renting, as well as all the other men she meets in the area.

Ex Machina was one of my favorite movies of 2015, and I enjoyed Garland’s scripts for Danny Boyle’s 28 Days Later and Pete Travis’ Dredd (2012). With Men, I feel as if this was a step back for the writer-director and misses the mark.

I don’t like to completely generalize, but many of these movies—where male directors with good intentions attempt to be self-aware on the power imbalance between sexes in society—feel surface-level and heavy-handed.

There’s potential with this kind of mes-

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sage through a male creator. But with Men, it seems as if this certain male filmmaker isn’t saying much besides “man bad, world unfair to woman.” It’s been almost five years since #metoo blew up; give us a little more substance beyond that.

Garland’s usual directing aesthetic and technique are visually pleasing, and there is some legitimate spookiness. But you can get that and better morally executed storytelling with his past efforts.

Unless you’re a big fan of Garland, Buckley and/or Kinnear, Men isn’t a must-see anytime soon. SC

sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

ON STAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE

SHOW DETAILS

JANIVA MAGNESS

What: Janiva Magness When: Thursday, June 9. Doors open at 6 p.m.; concert starts at 8 p.m.

BY COLLIN BREAUX, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

F

or concertgoers attending blues musician Janiva Magness’ show at The Coach House on June 9, they should know one thing: the event will be a mix of old and new.

Magness is releasing her album Hard to Kill— her 16th studio album—later in June after the concert, and plans to play songs from it during the San Juan Capistrano gig, along with older material from her extensive discography.

No matter what you want to hear, Magness guarantees the night will be a “blast.” She has plenty of material to draw from, given her long career in music.

Magness—whose work also includes the albums Humpty Dumpty and Lodi—attributes that longevity to “a lot of support” from fans, fellow music industry figures, and media coverage.

She’s picked up numerous awards along the way, including seven times as a Blues Music Award recipient.

“I need the music desperately,” Magness said.

“Musicians are all obsessed with music. Why else would you get into a horrible business?”

She calls music her “salvation” and is glad to be back on stage with her band following the temporary pause in live music brought about

Where: 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano For tickets or more info: thecoachhouse.com. Tickets are $25.

If you’re a blues fan looking for a fun night out, grab your ticket for Janiva Magness’ concert at The Coach House on June 9. Photo: Courtesy of Jay gilbert

by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I have really missed everyone and the exchange between myself and the band, and the band and the audience,” she said. “We’re really just getting started again.”

To those unfamiliar with her, Magness describes her sound as a mix of contemporary blues, soul, and Americana. There’s a rollicking, earthy, and gritty feel to songs such as “Lodi,” during which Magness reflects on the ups and downs of life.

Hard to Kill will be her first new album release in three years, and it is being put out through her own label, Fathead Records.

Given her extensive musical experience, it’s no surprise when Magness reveals she’s played at The Coach House before.

“I love that venue. It’s a great room. There’s not a bad seat in the house,” Magness said.

“The food is great. The vibe is great.”

That sunny disposition has been earned the hard way for Magness, who has gone through

trauma and struggles—including teenage pregnancy, addiction, and abuse. Magness detailed the harrowing experiences in her 2019 memoir, Weeds Like Us, the audiobook version of which will be released simultaneously with Hard to Kill.

In fact, the introspective angle of Hard to Kill came from when she read the book out loud to herself for the audiobook recording.

“They matched up really well,” Magness said.

She realized “hard to kill” is a resounding theme of her memoir, saying “fighting back” is something she’s done her whole life.

“I didn’t just survive,” Magness said. “I’m thriving. I have a beautiful life.”

She looks forward to sharing a night of that beautiful life in June with local fans.

“I hope people come out,” Magness said. SC

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GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com.

Deadline 12pm Monday.

MOVING SALE - SATURDAY, MAY 28 8:00 am, no early birds. 875 Calle Vallarta, San Clemente, CA 92673.

HUGE GARAGE SALE! SUNDAY, MAY 29 Sunday, May 29. 9:00 - 1:00 p.m.

34041 Granada dr., Dana Point.

Designer clothes, shoes, accessories, etc.

All priced to sell!

HELP WANTED

SMOG TECHNICIAN Star Smog Station in San Clemente is looking for a full-time smog technician.

Please call Danny at 949-235-6366.

Do you want to reach 42,000+ people in the San Clemente area?

Then you need to be in the SC Times.

Call us today! 949.388.7700, ext. 102

Do you want to reach 42,000+ people in the San Clemente area?

Then you need to be in the SC Times. Call us today!

Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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I

Welcome to ‘A New You’

f the past couple of years of living through a pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we humans are resilient and are capable of adapting to even the worst of circumstances.

Our mental fortitude has been tested, our eating habits adjusted, and even our personal relationships have either been strained, put through the ringer, or—for those more fortunate—have thrived.

The world has forever been changed by the events of the past two years, and as a result, so have most of us—ideally, for the better.

And as more and more restrictions across the globe are lifted, we’re able to see things anew, with a fresh perspective.

For many, the pandemic-induced lockdowns were very isolating. So, for this year’s “A New You” special section—our annual guide to self-improvement—we speak with

area psychologists to tell us the best ways of easing back into society, reconnecting with old friends, and heading back into the office.

And regarding those strained relationships, our resident senior dating columnist Tom Blake provides some insight and advice on getting over an ex, or just moving on from heartbreak and bettering yourself.

Also, with more of us heading out for activities such as running, hiking, and going to the gym, we explore which sneakers, or kicks, are best to rock. And if you’re looking at more water-based activities, we’ve got you covered as well by highlighting some of the best spots to swim, paddleboard or even just hang out with friends.

After wrapping up those activities, what better way to relax than with a massage? Lastly, we look at the different types of massages that are available, outlining their benefits and explaining which ones are best suited for you.

Navigating the Post-Pandemic Life

By Andrea Clemett After a couple of years of being inside because of the waves of COVID-19 restrictions, individuals who were diligent about staying indoors are navigating their way through the new normal.

But the anticipation of getting into the swing of in-person living again can spark uncertain feelings and anxiety.

Erica Curtis, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and owner of a private practice in San Juan Capistrano, identified three categories for the reservations some have about returning to life post-pandemic.

The first, she said, relates to health concerns from individuals with medical issues, as they need to limit how much they’re around others. A second reservation relates to those with various types of anxieties, while the third category pertains to individuals who have adapted to finding contentment in their home, “doing my own thing.”

“If anybody, especially those who may have suffered from a little social anxiety or a kind of anxiety, getting back in the world has been really hard,” said Dianne Mason, a marriage and family therapist associate located in San Clemente. “There’s a lot of fear

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

around it, perhaps paranoia about getting sick and just forgetting how to socialize.”

Mason also found that young people were widely affected, ranging from teenagers in middle school to college graduates. Additionally, individuals in transition during the pandemic were likely to feel an impact when returning to an immersive in-person lifestyle.

“A lot of people were really connected on social media, but that doesn’t really help,” Mason said. “It actually makes them sad, because they’re seeing that other people are back into their lives and they’re not, because they feel like they can’t.”

Mason identified that the individualistic culture of the U.S., combined with a few years of isolation, was a catalyst for many to feel lonely. Although other cultures have community-based societies that keep people interconnected, the pandemic may have disrupted that, leaving people longing for friendships.

“I try to get people to go outside, even if they’re not going in public,” Mason said. “I’ve been telling people to try to get on Meetup or places like that to learn to socialize again; reach out to old friends and try to connect in-person.”

Dr. Vived Gonzalez, doctor of psychology and an LMFT, said socialization is part of the

human biological makeup and a vital component of feeling connections and exchanging social reciprocity.

Studies have shown that people living in isolation or lacking interpersonal relationships will have weaker immune systems.

Gonzalez often suggests managing expectations when creating a new reality for ourselves in a “new norm.” Within her practice in San Juan Capistrano, therapists have encountered teens who have struggled to adjust to in-person or fully remote classes, expecting life to return to normal.

As routines frequently vary, individuals can benefit from understanding the change process while not letting others’ viewpoints determine one’s life or actions. Gonzalez uses the saying “what doesn’t break, bends” to establish flexibility in one’s thinking.

“If you want to wear a mask because it makes you feel safe, do it; it doesn’t matter what other people think,” Gonzalez said. “I encourage our patients to think about what they need and be OK with it and then integrate it slowly.”

Curtis said that learning how to cope with change is one of the biggest tasks of living. She suggests finding ways to get comfortable with the idea of change. She added that sometimes

Page 17

just naming it as such, “this is change,” can deeply validate feelings that something is off. By gaining an objective perspective, it can lead to accepting that change is hard.

When getting reacquainted with in-person gatherings or returning to the office, Curtis said, “We don’t want to push our sort of nervous system faster than it’s ready to go, and at the same time, we want to find that place of stretch.”

It’s about finding a place of growth where a person can benefit from engaging with community, friends, or family, whether it’s getting together with one friend, going to an outdoor restaurant or even a larger public area.

When offering support to someone diligent about staying inside, consider listening to their needs, Gonzalez said.

Common conflicts or distress among people, families in particular, can lie in the desire to control another person. Therefore, validating another person’s concerns can establish a safe support system.

“That social connection occurs when we feel really seen and understood,” Curtis said. “And so, once we feel connected, we feel safer.”

sanclementetimes.com

A NEW YOU

Hit the Reset Button with a Massage

By Breeana Greenberg

cradle,” Pavlina said. “This is a really good option, because they can just lie on their side.”

The Massage Associates also offers an oncology massage from therapists who received specialized training to be able to safely work with cancer patients.

Massages offer a wide variety of benefits, such as pain relief, increased range of motion, increased circulation, and an immune system boost.

However, it can be hard to decide what massage is best for you. From Swedish and hot stone to prenatal and deep tissue, each type of massage offers its own unique benefits.

SWEDISH Swedish-style massages are more about relaxation, San Clemente Barefoot Bliss owner Aimee Phillips explained.

“It’s longer, broader strokes,” Phillips said.

“If you just want to come in and just relax. You don’t have any specific focus areas at all that you want, it’s just to kind of check out but get light to medium pressure.”

SIGNATURE THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE Similar to a Swedish massage is the Signature Therapeutic massage, which is what Michelle Bryant, owner of The Massage Associates in San Juan Capistrano, recommends for clients to start with initially.

“It’s what probably 75% of our clients get,” Bryant said. “It’s tailored to what each client needs. A little bit of relaxation combined with some deep-tissue work for extra tight areas.

It’s basically a customized massage with a little bit of deep-tissue work.”

DEEP TISSUE A deep-tissue massage is a great way to address specific areas of concern and target particular muscle groups. Masseurs typically do not recommend deep tissue as a first massage experience, as it can be an intense massage.

“Deep tissue is where the therapist uses forearms, elbows and more targeted work,” Phillips said. “So, if there are specific issues that need to be worked out, that they would work a little bit deeper.”

Bryant explained that The Massage Associates’ full-body, deep-tissue massage offers that deep tissue target work everywhere.

“This is somebody that says they want our elbows in their calves, their shoulders, their glutes and their lower back,” Bryant said.

“They want full-body, deep tissue, everywhere.”

HOT STONE Barefoot Bliss offers hot stone massages with basalt or Himalayan salt stones, said Meagan Pavlina, San Clemente Barefoot Bliss’ manager.

The basalt stones are heated by water, and are smooth and glide over the skin, Pavlina explained. The Himalayan sea salt stones are textured and full of minerals that sink into the San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

muscle tissue, Pavlina said.

“The body really absorbs the heat, and so it penetrates really deeply into the muscles and gets an instant release that helps us to not have to add too much pressure,” Pavlina said.

“It’s really good for tender areas and also just for general relaxation.”

Hot stones can be a great add-on to a massage to get even more benefits from the experience. The salt stone can also offer light exfoliation on top of the massage.

“It’s a combination of hands and then the stones are integrated into it,” Phillips said.

“It’s like an extension of the hands, so it’s going to be a lot of the same flowing movements.”

REFLEXOLOGY Reflexology is the idea that stimulating pressure points on the hands and feet during a massage can stimulate organs and relieve congestion in areas that might not be accessible through a traditional massage, Bryant explained.

“If you’re having stomach issues or respiratory issues, a lot of pressure points on the feet correspond to those areas that you can’t massage with traditional massage,” Bryant said.

ASHIATSU—BAREFOOT The barefoot or Ashiatsu massage is a specialized technique in which the therapist uses the foot as a tool instead of the hands or elbow.

“It provides a broader pressure; it’s long flowing movements,” Phillips said. “The benefit of that is that you get more myofascial work, so you’re able to work at a deeper level but more comfortably for the client because you’re using the padded sole of your foot to do the work.”

Ashiatsu massage targets the parasympathetic nervous system, as opposed to the

sympathetic nervous system, Pavlina said.

“It’s kind of like you get the relaxation of Swedish because it’s the slower, flowy strokes, but you also still get the benefit of the deeper, targeting, focus work,” Pavlina said. “The foot is, like, if I was to put a tennis ball over my elbow, that’s what my heel feels like. So, it’s really good for people who want that focus work but also still want a relaxing massage session.”

STRETCH COMBO MASSAGE The Massage Associates suggests the stretch-combo massage for people looking for a sports-type of massage. It involves more stretching to increase flexibility, improve posture, range of motion and circulation, Bryant said.

“So, we incorporate more stretching techniques in with the therapeutic massage,” Bryant said.

SPECIALIZED MASSAGES: PRENATAL & ONCOLOGY Prenatal massages are great for moms-tobe, Bryant said. A prenatal massage, wherein the customer lies on her side, consists of lighter pressure with broader, longer strokes like a Swedish massage.

“That one’s always really going to be lighter pressure, regardless of the focus work or anything, because their joints are going to be a little bit looser with all the hormones, that you really just want to keep things light and relaxing,” Pavlina said.

Barefoot Bliss can also offer side-lying massages to those who have trouble lying on their stomach or putting their face in the massage table’s cradle.

“We can do this for people who have contraindications to lay down, like if people don’t come in to get a massage because they have a hard time putting their face in the face

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WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BOOKING A MASSAGE Professionals recommend clients look at reviews, make sure that the masseur is licensed and certified. It’s also important that the massage therapist does a thorough intake when you come in, starts and ends the session on time, and respects your time, Phillips said.

It’s also important to see if the facility is clean and that you feel comfortable communicating with the therapist.

With all types of massages, it’s important to let the masseur know of any target areas you want addressed or avoided, communicate if you want them to increase or decrease pressure, and tell them if anything is painful.

“You want to feel like they’re seeing you as an individual and as your specific needs and they’re willing to meet you there,” Pavlina continued.

Massages are not supposed to be uncomfortable; even a sport or injury massage can be enjoyable, Pavlina said.

“It’s supposed to be a hurt-so-good kind of feeling,” Phillips said.

“You do not have to suffer through anything,” Pavlina added. “That’s a huge misconception that I think we hear a lot, so we try to re-teach our clients to prioritize enjoying the massage.”

That’s why a masseur should check in frequently during the massage and ensure that they’re hitting all of the spots you need addressed, applying the right level of pressure, and that nothing hurts.

In choosing the length of a massage, if you’re just looking to come and relax and do not have any specific areas of focus, 60 minutes is fine, Phillips said.

However, if you have any particular areas or concerns you want addressed through your massage, Barefoot Bliss recommends a 90-minute massage so that the masseur can address the whole body while also spending extra time on the spots that need special care.

“In today’s world, very rarely do you ever have an experience like that or just a moment to experience that and so, to be able to gift yourself, maybe once a month, that 90 minutes that’s just for you, can feel like a reset,” Pavlina said.

“That can just really keep you going, and I know that we have a lot of really hard-working people out here with lifestyles that just don’t quit,” Pavlina continued. “And so, it’s almost a necessity to hit that reset button, so that way they can continue with their life. It’s not just a luxury.” sanclementetimes.com

A NEW YOU

If the Shoe Fits

Guide to finding the proper support for your feet to avoid exercise injury

By Zach Cavanagh hen you’re looking to change up your lifestyle and embark on the journey of “A New You,” the first step many will take is exercise, and the simplest workout anyone could start with is walking, running or hiking.

However, you probably just shouldn’t lace up your daily casual shoe for your exercise routine. Even the least strenuous exercise walks or runs could lead to an injury if your feet aren’t properly cushioned or protected, especially if the exercise becomes a regular part of your regimen.

While it’s still recommended to seek out a shoe sales professional if you’re going to get super serious about your footwear, there’s also nothing wrong with following some guidelines to help inform your search and help find what’s right for your upcoming journey. That’s where this feature comes in handy.

Generally speaking, most people will be walking, jogging or running on pavement or in the gym on a treadmill, and for this, you can stick with a typical road-running shoe.

While it’s the most widely used kind of exercise shoe and can be fairly simple to walk into a sporting goods store and just grab a pair of Nike or adidas shoes off the shelf, there are several things aspiring walkers and runners should consider.

The main factors to consider in a walking or running shoe are cushioning, stability and fit.

The most notable right way will be the cushioning of the shoe, which is probably the

W

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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factor most reliant on personal preference.

You may think you want the most cushioning, especially if you’re a bigger body, but you may not love the squish underfoot of all that cushioning. Others may want to feel every bit of the ground they’re treading, and for that, there are thinner or even “barefoot” models of shoes.

The next and possibly most important factor is the stability of the shoe. Not everyone walks or lands on their feet the exact same way with every step. Some people might roll their foot inward on a step, or they may use too much of the outside of their foot. Finding out your pronation or supination—the way your foot rolls for impact distribution—for shoe selection is important for preventing injuries from the ankle to the back.

Stability is the step in which professional help is likely most needed, and some shoe stores have the ability to map out your foot and guide this process. This mapping will also help with insoles, which can round out the support for your foot that the shoe alone may be unable to provide.

Lastly is the fit, and this isn’t as much of a personal preference as someone might think.

Most people might actually give themselves too much space inside the shoe, even in your casual everyday shoe, and obviously, you shouldn’t be shoving your foot into something too small. Find that right middle zone.

Aside from your regular running shoes for the gym or pavement running, there are more heavy-duty options such as trail runners, hiking shoes and hiking boots. Each is more rugged than the last, with different sole options for the terrain you’ll be conquering and more stability on the outside or, in a boot, up the ankle.

Whichever path you choose, make sure to properly support your feet, ankles and legs to keep up this journey and protect yourself from injury. sanclementetimes.com

A NEW YOU

5 Tips for Overcoming Heartbreak

By Tom Blake Growing old has many rewards: retirement, the opportunity to play lots of golf, and the likelihood that children are grown and usually married and have grandchildren. No more pressure from working 9-to-5.

The list is endless.

However, as we age, we also experience loss. We lose loved ones through divorce, breakups, misunderstandings, and death. And it’s not just losing a partner.

We lose parents, siblings, and dear friends. We are dealt personal hardships. Perhaps we’ve been diagnosed with a serious illness.

It’s life, it’s inevitable, and it’s hard. When these things happen, we face a new challenge: overcoming our heartbreak and finding a new direction.

How do we do that? How do we become an improved version of ourselves? How do we become “The New You”?

In writing about senior dating and relationships for 28 years, here are five tips I’ve learned from readers on how to overcome heartbreak.

1. It’s understandable and OK to be sad. It’s OK to cry. It’s OK to be alone (for a time, but not for too long).

2. Remind yourself that healing takes time. It will sting for a while. In an April 2022 interview on Good Morning America, Robin Roberts asked Magic Johnson how he overcame the news in 1991 that he had HIV. Magic said, “You realize you aren’t alone.” Being aware of this helped him become “a new you.”

The Bee Gees, the popular 1970s singing group, was made up of three close-knit brothers. They had many hits, none bigger than “How Do You Mend a Broken Heart?”

I saw an interview on TV recently with Barry Gibb, about that song and how he dealt with

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

the loss of his three younger brothers Andy, Maurice, and Robin, when each one unexpectedly passed away.

Gibb was devastated. He said, “I moped around for months; there were highs and lows.”

I lost my brother Bill a year ago in January; it’s taken that long to not think about him every day. I’ve healed, I guess, because I no longer reach for my phone to call him, as I did for months after he passed.

Again, healing takes time.

And we will never forget.

3. Don’t try to go it alone.

Have a support group, if only one or two people. Confide in them and talk to friends; be out socially, if possible. Try not to isolate yourself. Be around people by attending church, volunteering, and going to senior centers.

4. Remind yourself that everything is going to be all right in due time. It may not seem like it when adversity happens. Be positive as best you can.

5. Look for a seed of opportunity that often sprouts from adversity. When I was dealt an unexpected divorce in 1994, I started a journal just to gather and organize my thoughts. Six months later, using the words from that journal, I became a newspaper columnist.

A seed of opportunity came along, and I grabbed it. I’m still writing 28 years later.

Overcoming heartbreak is one of the main themes of music. Singing group Pablo Cruise had a 1978 hit titled “Love Will Find A Way.” Words from that song include: “Oh, but it’s all right (all right) Once you get past the pain (Past the pain) You’ll learn to find your love again So keep your heart open ’Cause love will find a way” Remember Magic’s words: “You aren’t alone.”

South OC Provides

Water Therapy Through Various Forms

By C. Jayden Smith Dana Point, San Clemente, and San Juan Capistrano residents are all aware of their proximity to the glistening Pacific Ocean, but the business of everyday life can distract from taking advantage of the water nearby.

Stresses such as work, taking care of family, and outside factors including social media or major news headlines can mount up, placing too much pressure on one person, with that person needing an outlet or a place to escape for just a few relaxing hours.

That’s where the concept of “water therapy” comes in.

Hydrotherapy is a relative new concept, in which water is used in varying amounts of pressure and flow to treat temporary or chronic health conditions and ease physical and mental health symptoms, according to Medical News Today.

Hydrotherapy offers numerous benefits, including reducing pain and easing arthritis symptoms without heavily impacting joints, improving mental health, and helping relaxation efforts.

Another way to get into the water is by swimming, which is the fourthmost popular sports activity in the country, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Along with other aerobic activities such as bicycling or running, swimming for two and a half hours a week or more can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses.

“People report enjoying water-based exercise more than exercising on land,” the CDC’s page on the benefits of swimming reads. “They can also exercise longer in water than on land without increased effort or joint or muscle pain.”

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Swimming can also improve the moods of men and women, decrease anxiety in those with fibromyalgia, positively affect the mental health of pregnant women, and improve family connections within families that include children with developmental disabilities.

Locations such as physical therapy tanks, swimming pools, and saunas are all popular methods for people to get their water fix.

Fortunately, for South County residents looking for more, the sprawling coastline is at their doorstep.

We’ve identified some places within the area that will help take a load off, even for just a while.

DANA POINT HARBOR The landmark’s obvious claim to fame, which keeps thousands coming back year after year, is the beautiful blue water residing within and around the area.

Go for a swim or lay a towel down at Baby Beach, try paddleboarding, or simply take a stroll throughout the area while admiring the dozens of docked boats and making a stop or two inside the harbor’s many shopping and dining options.

EVOLUTION SWIM The newest year-round location under the Evolution Swim Academy name still provides the same quality indoor beginner swim lessons for children ages 3 months and older, Mondays through Sundays.

Additionally, Evolution Swim offers a spot for year-round pool parties, family swim time, a café and snack shop, a pro shop, and a play room, in addition to other programs.

28206 Airoso Street, Rancho Mission Viejo. 949.388.4545. evolutionswim.com.

SAN CLEMENTE PIER Another undeniable local hangout, the pier provides unparalleled views of the water throughout the day, and especially at sunset.

Take a dip in the Pacific Ocean on the pier’s south side to relax the mind and enjoy the beauty that the location has to offer. Surfing is another popular activity occurring on the northern end, where you’ll find plenty of other lovers of the sport waiting to find the right wave and get out in the water.

WESTWIND SAILING INSTITUTE People who are both experienced and new to being on the water altogether have received highly rated boating instruction from Westwind Sailing since its inception in 1987.

Westwind Sailing offers classes, private lessons, and programs with sailboats, kayaks, and paddleboards.

“We pretty much get everybody out on the water, because the benefits of our resources are amazing,” Executive Director Diane Wenzel says. “It’s not just being on the water and sailing or paddling; it’s very cathartic, it’s very cleansing, it’s very healing, and it’s just a really great place to be.”

Wenzel compares the feeling of success to a “fountain of youth,” as she enjoys seeing people smiling ear to ear and embracing the feeling that being near the ocean and the Dana Point Harbor brings.

The harbor’s legacy, in addition to the views of the nearby cliffs, Catalina Island, and other locations going both north and south along the coast, makes the resource of having water nearby valuable to residents and visitors alike.

Visit westwindsailing.com or call 949.492.3035 to learn more. sanclementetimes.com

Skin’s In South County Medical Businesses Look After Patients’ Skin Care Needs

By Collin Breaux When it comes to taking care of your body and given the amount of sun exposure California residents might incur, one could say people in South Orange County have skin in the game when it comes to skin care.

Fortunately, specialty medical centers in the area have the experts, resources, and level of care to help keep patients looking their best.

Numerous places in South County are dedicated to ensuring skin issues are addressed— including those related to acne. The services available at Dana Point Acne Lab, for instance, are apparent in the name alone.

Sharon Loconsolo, an acne specialist and licensed esthetician who owns the business, has been treating patients for 30 years and decided to make treating acne a niche specialty five years ago.

“There is a need for it,” Loconsolo said.

“It’s extremely rewarding to help people clean up their acne.”

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

A patient’s diet, what cosmetics they use, and other lifestyle factors are considered in acne cases, which are always specific to an individual. Loconsolo initially offers what she calls an “acne camp” when she first meets with clients, during which she analyzes the person’s skin and then comes up with a treatment program. Patients then usually go in for treatment every two weeks until the acne clears up.

“It’s all age groups that get acne,” Loconsolo said. “It really does take a toll on their self-esteem.”

Generally, cases of acne are related to lifestyle factors including the clothing and bed material they use—and, of course, puberty— but some other instances can be genetically inherited.

“It truly changes their life to get clear skin,” Loconsolo said of the clients she’s treated.

Social media is also influencing how people perceive their skin. There now can be an expectation that people should have flawless skin without any wrinkles—a perception that isn’t realistic, Loconsolo said.

Over in San Clemente, Seaside Skin Care is also ready to help patients with their skin care needs. Botox injections, microneedling, and laser treatments are some of the services available at the medical spa—which is clean, has a calming aura, and friendly staff ready to welcome patients to their appointments.

“We have our esthetician services, which do facials and peels,” said Michele Westen-

dorf, Seaside’s clinic director and injection specialist. “(Clients get) a customized approach to their skin and treatment goals. We have a discussion with them about their type of skin they have and what their treatment goals are (when they first come in).”

Those initial discussions cover whether their skin is overly dry, if they’re concerned about sunspots and aging, and other particular issues. The experts at Seaside then come up with a treatment plan based on what the client is seeking.

“Here in California, we get a lot of sun exposure—which causes damage to our skin,” Westerndorf said. “There’s factors we don’t see until we’re older, and this is all about the long-term and maintenance to keep you feeling and looking healthy and younger.”

How people feel on the inside is tied to their appearance on the outside, which Seaside can help with in terms of enhancing a client’s natural beauty, according to Seaside Marketing Director Kate Tomalas.

“It ties into the overall feeling and self-confidence people have moving forward. Your skin and your appearance is the first thing you present when you meet someone,” Tomalas said. “I think feeling confident in your skin is what makes the big difference.”

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SC LIVING

GUEST OPINION: | Historical Happenings by Tom Marshall

The Book on San Onofre Beach

T

he book San Onofre—Memories of a Legendary Surfing Beach by David Matuszak is heavy—not the writing, the actual book. At 1,481 pages and weighing nearly 12 pounds, it is the heaviest book I’ve ever read.

“The project began as a 50- to 100page booklet highlighting the memories of just one pioneer surfer, Wally Duester,” said Matuszak.

He originally thought it would take about six months to complete. It ended up taking eight years of full-time work.

It evolved into not only the history of the iconic surfing spot, but the entire history of surfing from its beginning in the South Pacific to canoeing, the town of San Onofre, the native peoples who settled in the area originally, and even the building of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station near the beach.

Add to that the origins of surfboard making, surf music, photography, literature, film and surfing automobiles, and

you have the most comprehensive work ever compiled on surfing.

Matuszak will give highlights of his work during the San Clemente Historical Society’s next quarterly event, from 6-8 p.m. on June 9 at the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 Calle Seville. The program is free and open to everyone.

The book is loaded with historical tidbits. Many of his HISTORICAL tales I’d never heard HAPPENINGS before.

BY TOM MARSHALL Matuszak notes, for instance, that humorist Mark Twain was an early reporter of surfing. He was on assignment in Hawaii (then called the Sandwich Islands) for the now-defunct Sacramento Union newspaper in 1866.

Twain even tried his hand at what was called “surfing-bathing” without

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much success. He rarely mentioned it during his many lectures on the Sandwich Islands.

Matuszak and others believe that Twain was sensitive to the fact that nudity was a common aspect of the sport then and that it would have been inappropriate to talk about it in front of a mixed audience.

The book includes what may be the first photo of surfing, from 1890. There are more than 5,000 photographs in all.

Car buffs will also enjoy the section on the iconic surfer vehicle, the Woodie.

Also highlighted is the role of various Volkswagen and other auto manufacturers’ vans.

The controversy over the nuclear plant is covered in detail. Matuszak reports the surfing community was “all against it.”

Besides the general concern about the plant’s safety, the surfers worried about its impact on erosion and water quality.

But the heart of the story are the peo-

ple who made up the surfing community around San Clemente and the world.

Many were larger-than-life characters; most were just out for a good time in the warm California sun.

Even President Richard Nixon had an impact on local surfing. His residence in Casa Pacifica forced security to close nearby surfing beaches to surfers, until Nixon himself went to bat to allow the surfers back in.

Matuszak’s program at the Historical Society will include many of the historic photographs. You can also purchase a copy of the book at the event. Begin strengthening your arms now.

Tom Marshall is a member of the San Clemente Historical Society and a retired journalist. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared.

The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

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

See the solution in next week’s issue.

Local Real Estate By Local Experts Jeremy Conrad Broker, DRE# 01279209 949.542.8348 Jconrad@conradrealestate.com Bill Conrad Broker, DRE# 01461548 949.542.8349 Billc@conradrealestate.com Steve Conrad Property Manager, DRE# 01297404 949.542.8347 Stevec@conradrealestate.com

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Did you know that...

Sponsored by

•S an Clemente inventory is on the rise increasing to 112 active listings right now from its low point in December 2021 of only 28 active listings.

• I n San Clemente for 2022, there have been 317 closings with an average closing price of $1,811,405.

•H omes are still selling in record time in San Clemente, averaging just 15 days before selling in 2022.

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It’s time to expect more…

Established 1963

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE APN: 675-175-31 TS No: CA15000014-21-2 TO No: 02-21011350-01T GM 66856.0054 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE (The above statement is made pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d) (1). The Summary will be provided to Trustor(s) and/or vested owner(s) only, pursuant to CA Civil Code Section 2923.3(d)(2).) YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED February 18, 2020. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On June 23, 2022 at 12:00 PM, At the North front entrance to the County Courthouse, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701, MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps, as the duly Appointed Trustee, under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust Recorded on February 27, 2020 as Instrument No. 2020000086452, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Orange County, California, executed by WATERVIEW DRIVE, LLC, as Trustor(s), in favor of PS FUNDING, INC. as Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 53 MARBELLA, SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the Note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said Note(s), advances if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. Said Deed of Trust also contains a Security Agreement under the UCC, conveying a security interest in the Personal Property to Trustee and Beneficiary. Trustee and Beneficiary shall have, all the rights and remedies of a” secured party” under the UCC and other applicable California law. Trustor covenants and agrees that this Deed of Trust constitutes a fixture filing under Section 9313 and 9502(6) of the UCC The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $2,269,923.66 (Estimated).

However, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the Trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. If the Trustee is unable to convey title

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. Notice to Potential Bidders If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a Trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a Trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property.

You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information.

If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same Lender may hold more than one mortgage or Deed of Trust on the property.

Notice to Property Owner The sale date shown on this Notice of Sale may be postponed one or more times by the Mortgagee, Beneficiary, Trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about Trustee Sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call ServiceLink Auction | Hudson and Marshall at (866) 539-4173 for information regarding the Trustee’s Sale or visit the Internet Website address https://www.servicelinkauction.com/ for information regarding the sale of this property, using the file number assigned to this case, CA15000014-21-2. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Notice to Tenant NOTICE TO TENANT FOR FORECLOSURES AFTER JANUARY 1, 2021 You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase.

First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (866) 539-4173, or visit this internet website https://www.servicelinkauction.com/, using the file number assigned to this case CA15000014-212 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: May 18, 2022 MTC Financial Inc. dba Trustee Corps TS No. CA15000014-21-2 17100 Gillette Ave Irvine, CA 92614 Phone:949-252-8300 TDD: 866-660-4288 By: Loan Quema, Authorized Signatory SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE AT https://www.servicelinkauction.com/ FOR AUTO-

MATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL: ServiceLink Auction | Hudson and Marshall at (866) 539-4173 NPP0402188 To: SAN CLEMENTE TIMES 05/26/2022, 06/02/2022, 06/09/2022 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON JUNE 8, 2022 PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: 1401 North El Camino Real, Suite 100 - Conditional Use Permit 22-165 – Ashiatsu By The Sea Massage A request to allow a massage establishment at a multi-tenant suite within a commercial plaza located in the Neighborhood Commercial 2 Zoning District.

Staff recommends that the project be found Categorically Exempt from CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15031 (Class 1: Existing Facilities).

These applications are on file at the City of San Clemente Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California, and are available for public inspection and comment by contacting the Community Development Department at (949) 361-6183. If you challenge these projects in court you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearings.

Notice is further given that said public hearings will be conducted by the City of San Clemente Planning Commission and held on Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at the San Clemente Community Center Auditorium, 100 Calle Seville, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearings or to provide written communication to the Planning Commission to express their opinion for or against the requests.

Further information may be obtained by contacting the Planning Division at (949)361-6183.

Secretary to the San Clemente Planning Commission PUBLIC NOTICE SUMMONS (Domestic Violence Restraining Order) Citacion(Orden de restricción de violencia en el hogar) Case Number: 21V002017 Número de caso: 21V002017 1 Person asking for protection: Paola Gonzalez La Persona que solicita protección: Paola Gonzalez 2 Notice to: Miguel A. Garcia, Aviso a (nombre de la persona a ser restringida): Miguel A. Garcia The person in 1 is asking for Domestic Violence Restraining Order against you.

La persona en 1 está pidiendo una order de restricción de violencia en el hogar contra usted.

Lea la página 2 para más información.

3 You have a court date Tiene una audiencia en la corte Superior Court of California, County of Orange, Corte Superior de California, Condado de Orange, Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868 Date (Fecha): 06/15/2022 08:30 A.M. Time (Hora): Dept. (Depto.): L11

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Room (Sala): What if I don’t go to my court date?

If you do not go to your court date, the judge can grant a restraining order that limits your contact with the person in 1 . If you have a child with the person in 1 the court could make orders that limit your time with your child. Having a restraining order against you may impact your life in other ways, including preventing your from having guns and ammunition. If you do not go to your court date, the judge could grant everything that the person in 1 asked the judge to order. ¿Qué pasa si no voy a la audiencia?

Si no va a la audiencia, el juez puede dictar una orden de restricción que limita su contacto con la persona en 1 . Si tiene un hijo con la persona en 1 la corte puede dictar órdenes que limitans u tiempo con su hijo. Una orden de restricción en su contra puede tener otras consecuencias, como prohibirle tener armas de fuego y municiones. Si no va a la audiencia, el juez puede ordenar todo lo que pide la persona en 1 .

How do I find out what the person in 1 is asking for?

To find out what the person in 1 is asking the judge to order, go to the courthouse listed at the top of the page. Ask the court clerk to let you see your case file. You will need to give the court clerk our case number, which is listed above and on page 1. The request for retraining order will be on form DV-100, Request for Domestic Violence Restraining Order. ¿Cómo puedo entender lo que pide la persona en 1?

Para entender lo que pide la persona en 1 , vaya al tribunal en la dirección indicada en la parte superior de la página 1. Pida al secretario de la corte permiso para ver el expediente de su caso. Tendrá que darle al secretario el número de su caso, que aparece arriba y en la página 1. La solicitud de una orden de restricción se hace en el formulario DV-100, Solicitud de orden de restricción de violencia en el hogar.

Where can I get help?

Free legal information is available at your local court’s self-help center. Go to www.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp to find your local center. ¿Dónde puedo obtener ayuda?

Puede obtener información legal gratis en el centro de ayuda de su corte. Vea Https://www.courts. ca.gov/selfhelp-selfhelpcenters.htm?rdeLocaleAttr=es para encontrar el centro de ayuda en su condado.

Do I need a lawyer?

You are not required to have a lawyer, but you may want legal advice before your court hearing. For help finding a lawyer, you can visit www.lawhelpca. org or contact your local bar association. ¿Necesito un abogodao?

No es obligatorio tener un abogado, pero es possible que quiera consejos legales antes de la audiencia en la corte. Para ayuda a encontrar un abogado, visite https://www.lawhelpca.org/es/homepage o contacte al Colegio de Abogados local.

Published: San Clemente Times, May 19, 26, June 2, 9, 2022 Date (Fecha): May 04, 2022 David H. Yamasaki, Clerk of the Court, by (Secretario, por) C. Cajero, Deputy, (Asistente) PUBLIC NOTICE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 30-2022-01259006-CU-PT-CJC TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner WEN CHIN LIU (with variation WEN-CHIN LIU) filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM Present Name WEN CHIN LIU (with variation WEN-CHIN LIU) Proposed Name WENCHIN LIU THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduleed to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 07/12/2022 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: D100.

Room: Remote Appearance. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Your hearing will be held REMOTELY via video at the date and time indicated on the notice or order to which this message is attached. You are NOT to physically appear at the courthouse on the date of your hearing.

To obtain instructions on how to appear remotely for your hearing, you MUST do the following no later than the day before the hearing (or no later than Friday, if the hearing is on Monday): 1. Go to the Court’s website at www.occourts.org; 2. Click on the “COVID-19” button; 3. Click on the “Civil” button; 4. Click on the “Remote Hearing Instructions” button; 5. Follow the instructions. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you or your witnesses, do not have the ability to access the court’s website above, or are unable to follow the instructions on the Court’s website, or are otherwise unable to appear remotely, you MUST call the courtroom or call (657) 6228513, prior to your hearing, to request an alternate means to appear. Failure to do so may result in your case being dismissed, or a ruling issued against you.

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: 05/11/2022 JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times, May 19, 26, June 2, 9, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 30-2022-01228334 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Haydee Sauza filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name Haydee Sauza Proposed Name Guadalupe Haydee Sauza THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Notice of Hearing Date: 06/30/2022 Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: D100.

Room: REMOTELY. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

Your hearing will be held REMOTELY via video at the date and time indicated on the notice or order to which this message is attached. You are NOT to physically appear at the courthouse on the date of your hearing. To obtain instructions on how to appear remotely for your hearing, you MUST do the following no later than the day before the hearing (or no later than Friday, if the hearing is on Monday): 1. Go to the Court’s website at www.occourts. org; 2. Click on the “COVID-19” button; 3. Click on the “Civil” button; 4. Click on the “Remote Hearing Instructions” button; 5. Follow the instructions.

IMPORTANT NOTE: If you or your witnesses, do not have the ability to access the court’s website above, or are unable to follow the instructions on the Court’s website, or are otherwise unable to appear remotely, you MUST call the courtroom or call (657) 622-8513, prior to your hearing, to request an alternate means to appear. Failure to do so may result in your case being dismissed, or a ruling issued against you.

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: 5/9/2022 JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times, May 19, 26, June 2, 9, 2022

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/05/2022.

Published in: San Clemente Times, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226632506 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: THE LAUNDRY DEPOT OF DANA POINT 24522 DEL PRADO AVE. DANA POINT, CA 92629 Full Name of Registrant(s): SMOKEJUMPER, INC. 510 ½ ACADIA AVE. CORNOA DEL MAR, CA 92625 This business is conducted by a CA Corporation The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 11/25/2021 SMOKEJUMPER, INC. /S/STEVE ERLINGER/ STEVE ERLINGER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/18/2022.

Published in: San Clemente Times, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226634377 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SC VENTURES 30 VIA CRISTOBAL

SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 Full Name of Registrant(s): FLMC HOLDINGS, INC. 30 VIA CRISTOBAL SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 This business is conducted by a CA Corporation.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a /s/FLMC HOLDINGS, INC./FOSTER MATT MCCARTY, SECRETARY This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 05/10/22.

Published in: San Clemente Times May 19, 26, June 2, 9, 2022

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the San Clemente Times.

• Fictitious Business Notice (FBN/DBA) • Name Changes • Lien Sale • Alcoholic Beverage License • Notice to Creditors • Petitions for Probate • Trustee Sale • Summons – Divorce – Civil • Annual Report • Non-Responsibility • Dissolution of Partnership EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226632490 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: JCP CONSULTING 21 WHITECLOUD IRVINE, CA 92614 Full Name of Registrant(s): JONATHAN PENG 21 WHITECLOUD IRVINE, CA 92614 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 3/15/2022 JONATHAN PENG /S/J PENG This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 04/18/2022.

Published in: San Clemente Times, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226631609 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: REEF POINT ACAI BOWLS 555 N. EL CAMINO REAL UNIT A382 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): PASSION PALM INC. 555 N. EL CAMINO REAL UNIT A382 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by a CA Corporation The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a PASSION PALM INC. /S/CARLOS HERNANDEZ/ CARLOS HERNANDEZ PRESIDENT

Page 27

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LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS DIRECTORY ATTORNEY

Aaron Lloyd Bankruptcy Attorney 2377 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.544.9355, lloydlegal.com

BODY MIND SPIRIT ARE YOU HAPPY? Let us assist you in creating a life plan for the life & relationships you want & deserve. Body Mind Spirit, 949.248.7377, bodymindspirit.com

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Want to be featured as our business spotlight?

Contact us for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, San Clemente, 949.493.9311, drericjohnson.com

DENTISTS

Benjamin Stevens, D.D.S. 3553 Camino Mira Costa, Suite B, San Clemente, 949.493.2391, benstevensdds.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, arcadiaelectric.com

MUSIC LESSONS

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY Call Lauralyn Loynes for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com HOME IMPROVEMENT/ REMODELING

ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTIONS 3West Environmental, Inc. www.3westenviro.com Residential & commercial inspections for mold, asbestos and lead paint. 949.482.1357

Hoover Construction License B-774675 949.292.6778

Rock Club Music School 73 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.463.1968, beachcitiesrockclub.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr., DDS 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, San Clemente, (949)361-GUMS (4867), sanclementeperiodontics.com

PROSTHODONTICS Hamilton Le, D.M.D., F.A.C.P. 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, San Clemente, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), moranperio.com

REALTORS

“Sandy & Rich” RE/MAX Coastal Homes 949.293.3236, sandyandrich.com

Scott Kidd, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 949.498.0487, skidd@bhhscal.com

WANT TO BE FEATURED HERE? Contact Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

Call Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

Call Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Page 29

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SC LIVING

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

The Stresses of International LongDistance Relationships

T

he pandemic has been hard on long-distance relationships for seniors. Travel restrictions made face-to-face meetings difficult.

And when the partners lived in different countries, getting together was almost impossible.

I heard of relationships in which one person lived in Canada while the other lived across the border in the U.S., but they were unable to see each other for one to two years because of border-crossing restrictions.

Now that restrictions are easing, what’s happening to these international long-distance relationships?

Larry, a former Dana Point neighbor from 30 years ago—he’s now 82—sent me an email last week regarding the status of his international long-distance relationship.

Larry wrote: “Many men have been interested in the (allure) of Asian women.

I started an online investigation of these women and their countries a dozen years ago. I discovered there are two common denominators. They all want love and financial security.

“I chatted with many women online throughout the entire world. Many come from countries with different religions than mine. One country stood out above all others (the Philippines) for Catholicism and an English-speaking populace.

“At first glance, it was obvious that Philippine dating sites were not the way to go! Full of money-scammers and women desperate to escape the poverty of the Philippines. So, I looked at other non-dating social sites. This is how I met Emy. We are now in our seventh happy year together.”

About five years ago, Larry moved to the Philippines to live with Emy. Just before the pandemic arrived, he returned to the U.S. to attend to some personal matters. Then, after the pandemic spread, his return flight to Manila was canceled.

During 2020 and 2021, he had eight more reservations to fly to Manila canceled. The Philippine government was strict about allowing people into the country.

He wrote: “Since March 2020 until recently, the Philippines and the USA gov-

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

Page 30

ernments have kept me from returning to the Philippines. The stress has been close to unbearable. It has taken a toll on my life, and I am now in a recuperative stage. It is going to take days, weeks and perhaps longer to recover.

“To get us back together, I investigatON LIFE AND LOVE ed 35-45 countries

BY TOM BLAKE where Emy might be able to get a visa. I found only two— Ecuador and Mexico. Ecuador seemed too far away in South America. And Mexico, which she chose, turned out to be difficult for Emy to enter. They required many documents and other severe travel restrictions for Filipinos! She endured a three-day delay in Manila, but with help from friends, plus 34 hours of travel time, we have been together again in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for over two weeks.

“What is it like here in Mexico with Emy? Life is better than good. She is the same lady who loved me in 2019: sweet, kind and caring. She never misses Mass, and it is great to hold hands together in Mass. She cooks three meals a day, made from fresh food from the local market.

Our apartment is so clean that a person could eat off the floor. She gives me a strong, full back massage every day, and we take long walks every day.

“We live in a nice updated fully furnished one-BR apartment including A/C and electricity for under $500 per month. Buses run every 5-10 minutes, and it costs 50 U.S. cents to anywhere in the city. Supermarket pricing is close to the same in the U.S. The locals are friendly.”

Tom’s comment: I wonder what they will do. Remain in Mexico or return to the U.S. or the Philippines?

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared.

The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

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San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

LAST TRITON STANDING

Senior sprinter Caroline Hawkes qualifies for CIF State Championships

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

L

ittle by little, the competitive field gets whittled down over the course of the California track and field season.

First, there are the league meets, where the top nine advance from the preliminaries to the finals and only the event winners and second- and third-place finishers that hit qualifying standards advance further. Then, there are the section preliminaries, where heat winners and a total of nine competitors per event advance to the section finals.

Out of the section finals, only the nine best performances in an event across all of the section’s divisions move on to the Masters meet, where only the top six finishers move on to the biggest stage of the CIF State Championships.

San Clemente’s track and field program qualified 19 entries out of the Sea View League to the CIF-SS preliminaries, only six to the CIF-SS Division 1 Finals and just four to the CIF-SS Masters Meet.

Now, only one Triton remains: senior sprinter Caroline Hawkes.

Hawkes ran a time of 55.39 seconds in the girls 400-meter sprint to place fifth

San Clemente Times May 26–June 1, 2022

San Clemente senior sprinter Caroline Hawkes qualified for the CIF State Championships in the 400-meter sprint. Hawkes finished fifth at the CIF-SS Masters Meet on Saturday, May 21, at Moorpark High School. Photo Courtesy of Jeff Turner

at CIF-SS Masters on Saturday, May 21, at Moorpark High School, and advance to the CIF State Championships. Hawkes will compete in the state preliminaries on Friday, May 27, at Buchanan High School in Clovis, with the opportunity to run in the state finals on Saturday, May 28.

“It’s definitely exciting,” Hawkes said.

“Definitely bittersweet, because it’s the end of my senior year, but it’s going to be really rewarding, because I feel like I’ve worked really hard. To get to State is just an honor in itself.”

Hawkes will be in the first of three preliminary heats of the 400, and she’ll have plenty of motivation to be pulled to the finish and into the final. Hawkes will be lined up directly next to the state leader in the 400, Takiya Cenci of Clovis North, who ran a time of 53.40 seconds at the Central Section Masters.

The 400 prelims will run at 6:50 p.m. on Friday, with the three heat winners and the next six best times advancing to Saturday’s final.

While Hawkes concedes she hasn’t completely run her best races over the course of the postseason, the Montana Statebound senior has done enough to keep advancing, and her run at the Masters Meet was her fastest 400 time since she clocked her personal record of 55.20 seconds at the Mt. SAC Relays on April 16.

“I feel like these last few weeks, I haven’t gotten any PRs (personal records) or anything, so I’ve just been running what I know I can run,” Hawkes said. “It hasn’t been anything new, so it’s been a little disappointing, but it’s also really gratifying to see that I’m being consistent and running what I can run.”

This postseason has also brought a different goal and a different pressure than any before for Hawkes. As a sophomore in 2020, there was barely a regular season and no postseason at all due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the state meet wasn’t held in 2021 due to continued COVID-19 concerns.

So, for the first time, Hawkes has been able to set her goal to make the state meet and push herself to get there.

“This year has been a little more stressful,” Hawkes said. “Last year, it ended at CIF Finals, and that was that, but now you know you’re going to be running for another three weeks, so you have to be a little more mentally prepared and tougher.”

Being able to finish her Triton career at the CIF State Championships is the culmination of four years of work—her only four years running competitive track and field.

“I always knew I was fast, but I was focusing on soccer,” Hawkes said of her early athletic career. “I quit soccer my sophomore year to focus on track, but my freshman season for track, I knew I wanted to run track in college.”

It’s easy to see why track and field gripped Hawkes in her freshman year—because she was good at it. In 2019, Hawkes won the 200-meter sprint and finished second

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in the 100-meter sprint in the frosh-soph races at the Orange County Championships, and she finished second as an individual in the varsity Sea View League finals in the 200 and 400 to qualify for CIF. Hawkes also ran the second leg of the league champion 4x400-meter relay team.

Neither Hawkes nor the relay team advanced out of the preliminaries, but it was enough to get the young sprinter bitten by the running bug.

“The work you put in, you get out,” Hawkes said of her love of running. “It’s cool to have a sport where you’re pushing your body to the limits just to see how hard you can push, how fast you can go.”

San Clemente assistant coach Kevin McCarthy, who is Hawkes’ individual coach and is also retiring with Hawkes’ state appearance after 46 years in track and field coaching, said Hawkes is smart about how she runs and understands the specific techniques needed to run the 400, the longest of the sprint races.

“Normal kid, when they get tired, they’re going to quit,” McCarthy said. “You have to train through the year to learn how to get through the hurt. She knows when she’s hurting, she has another gear, because she knows how to relax.”

As Hawkes’ Triton career comes to an end and she prepares to move on to Montana State in Bozeman, Hawkes looked back on what she appreciated most from her San Clemente High School experience. While track and field can be an individual sport with plenty of individual pressure, Hawkes most appreciated her actual family and her Triton family.

“Definitely just the team environment,” Hawkes said, “and it’s not just specific to San Clemente, but having my parents at all the meets, and my family there. San Clemente is such a community.

It feels like you know everyone, and it’s so supportive and positive.”

Hawkes will continue to get that support as she moves on to Montana State, as she enters as one of 20 in a large recruiting class headed to Bozeman. But she’ll receive the support one last time in red and black this weekend in Clovis. SC

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San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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SC SURF

Stars Come into Alignment for Cosmic Creek After 2-year hiatus, one-of-a-kind surf festival lands at Salt Creek in June

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

“W

e are slowed-down sound and light waves, a walking bundle of frequencies tuned into the cosmos,” Albert Einstein once explained. “We are souls dressed up in sacred biochemical garments, and our bodies are the instruments through which our souls play their music.”

It was Einstein’s view that the universe and cosmos were governed by gravitational waves. In the years since, science has proven Einstein to be a pretty smart guy. But, perhaps, in the words of musician Jimmy Buffet, “Einstein Was a Surfer.”

Either way, skip ahead on the space-

Cosmic Creek Founder Eric Diamond on a 1980s Wave Tools. Photo: Courtesy of Tim McCaig

time continuum to the present day, and after two years in outer orbit, the Vissla Cosmic Creek Surf Festival is once again touching down on the sands of Salt Creek on June 4-5.

“This is one small step for Dana Point, and one giant leap for surfing kind,” jokes Eric Diamond, who’s been the mastermind behind the Cosmic Creek for nearly a quarter-century. “Unfortunately, we weren’t able to run the contest the last couple of years because of the pandemic, but that gave us some time to get extra-creative and have even more fun.”

The Cosmic Creek is part surf contest, part retro surfboard celebration, part music festival, and solely unique to Salt Creek.

Over the years, everyone from local legend Donavon Frankenreiter to Kelly Slater to Pamela Anderson have graced

the sand, and there’s plenty of talent already in the draw this year.

Soul master Rob Machado is set to compete in the Pro division, as well as the Creators & Innovators division, which will see surfer/shapers riding their own handmade craft. Also, in the Creators division are master craftsmen Donald Brink, Tyler Warren, Nic Melanson, Paul Naude and Justin Adams.

“The Creators is such a fun division.

The boards these guys bring down are amazing—so much talent. They’re a tribute to past designs, but still fully their own creation; it’s really rad to see the past and present collide like that,” Diamond says.

Besides the self-shaped Creators & Innovators boards, all other surfers will be riding either a single-fin or a twinfin, depending on which heat they’re in.

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY CAPISTRANO VALLEY TOYOTA

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

SIYANDA HEWITT

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Siyanda Hewitt. Photo: Courtesy of the Hewitt Family

San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

There will be divisions for Pros, Locals and Women, as well as a body surfing expression session sponsored by DaFin. Over the years, Diamond has curated an incredible collection of classic, ’70s-era boards on which surfers will be competing. Heats will alternate between single-fin heats and twin-fin heats.

Before the start of each heat, surfers will draw numbers out of a hat and be able to choose their board accordingly.

Some of the boards are magic; some are complete dogs.

As of press time, the Surfline forecast was looking promising for the Cosmic Creek. Surfline’s calling for a playful combo of southwest swell and a touch of northwest swell to cross things up and create peaky conditions.

There could be a touch of south wind on Sunday, but Salt Creek handles those kinds of conditions better than anywhere in the area.

And adding to the entertainment in the water will be a slew of bands keeping the airwaves buzzing. On Saturday afternoon and evening, musical acts Vaguess, Toner and Widowspeak will all be playing at the Bluff Park overlooking Salt Creek Beach.

“Good surfing, good times, good music, a great community—that’s what the Cosmic is all about, and if you learn a little something about space and the universe in the process, well, that’s a win right there,” Diamond says.

Jake Howard is local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente. A former editor at Surfer Magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for a number of publications, including Picket Fence Media, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation. SC

A couple years ago, Siyanda Hewitt was planning a trip to California, but then the world was turned upside down, and he was stuck in England for most of the pandemic.

Undaunted, Siyanda this week turned his vision to reality, as he touched down in San Clemente for the first time. Accompanied by his father, Tom, who runs the organization Surfers Not Street Children, the two are here to surf and enjoy the wide array of opportunities up and down the West Coast.

Surfers Not Street Children is a nonprofit organization based in Durban, South Africa, which endeavors to use surfing as a means to get down-

and-out, otherwise-forgotten kids off the streets and into social programs, school and the water.

Alongside his dad, 15-year-old Siyanda has dedicated himself to making the world fairer and more equitable for those not blessed with an abundance of opportunity.

Not only is his heart in the right place, but Siyanda is a ripping goofy-footer. Over the past couple years, he spent a good portion of his time in England, where his dad is originally from, as well as back home in Durban.

Tough as nails, he’s all good with the cold, challenging UK conditions—but doesn’t mind the warm water of New Pier, Durban, either.

Over the next week, Siyanda and Tom will be kicking around the area, surfing and enjoying Trestles and Salt Creek. If you see them in the water, say hello, share a wave and make them feel at home. More than most, they understand the positive powers of surfing. SC

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Water Temperature: 62-64 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 6-8 Thursday: Mainly South/southwest swell, along with some secondary Northwest swell, sets up chest to head high surf, (4-5’). Light/variable winds in the morning, shift to a moderate sea breeze for much of the afternoon, then ease by the evening.

Outlook: The swell blend maintains chest to head high waves, (4-5’) on Friday, then surf tapers off to waist-shoulder high, (3-4’+), on Saturday. Fresh Southwest swell moves in Sunday with waist-shoulder-head high waves, (3-4-5’). Light/variable breeze early Friday morning, is followed by moderate west wind for the remainder of the day. Light to moderate south winds most of Saturday. Mainly moderate south sea breeze for Sunday.

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San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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San Clemente Times May 26-June 1, 2022

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