Jaime Martinez and wife Marcela Perez have lived in the Vista Los Mares neighborhood for 11 years and have seen progress to improve the area in recent years. Photo by Stacie N. Galang
SC
THE LATEST: “Faulty computer modeling” and “manufacturing issues” were the primary sources of problems at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, a 94-page inspection report from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission says.
The two factors helped cause the premature wear of tubes on the relatively new steam generators and the radiation leak January 31 that led to Unit 3’s shut down. The Unit 2 reactor had already been offline for upgrades January 9. Neither reactor has produced power since.
The report also states that plant owner Southern California Edison complied with federal regulations when it proposed the replacement steam generators in the first place, a point SCE made sure to note in its own statement about the report.
“We are committed to continuing to work with the NRC on the steam generator issues and will continue to use conservative decision making as we work on repairs and planning for the future,” said Senior Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer Pete Dietrich in a statement.
But anti-nuclear groups called the commission’s report a “dangerous cover-up.” Gene Stone of San Clemente-based Residents Organized for a Safe Environment said SCE’s plan to restart Unit 2 is “extremely risky.”
WHAT’S NEXT: SCE must submit its formal response to questions raised by the NRC, which the utility must do before it can restart the reactors. Separately, the California Public Utilities Commission plans to open an investigation of the plant, according to its August 2 agenda.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.sanclementetimes.com. —Stacie N. Galang
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
San Juan Capistrano residents are still waiting for their water bills, after printing and software errors caused delays in the billing process. The city is more than two weeks late delivering water bills to nearly half of its 11,200 customers. The first two cycles of bills in the city’s five-cycle billing process were supposed to be sent out July 6 and 13. The city delivered notices to affected customers, informing them of the situation. Water bills for cycle-three customers, which were supposed to be sent out July 20, are also expected to be late. The software error arose after city staff tried to apply a 3 percent water rate increase that the City Council approved last month. Adjustments will be made to affected customers, according to staff.
THE LATEST: As of this week, the Ralphs on El Camino Real is slated to reopen August 3.
Ralphs spokeswoman Kendra Doyel said the finishing touches are being put on the 28,322-square-foot super market that also boasts a 53-foot, 11-inch tower at its entrance. Renovations on the Ralphs Fresh Fare began December 24 with the closing of the old market.
“We are very excited,” Doyel said. “It’s been a long time coming for that store.”
The project was originally proposed as three stories with additional commercial storefronts, but the concept met stern opposition and never received approval. By March 2011, the revised plans — with just the super market and parking — passed muster with the Planning Commission and plans moved ahead.
WHAT’S NEXT: A ribbon cutting is planned for opening day, which is still tentative, Doyel said.
FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanclementetimes.com. —SNG
NEWS NEXT DOOR
DANA POINT
City Council on July 17 voted to seek outside help with improving water quality at Doheny State Beach. The beach has for years appeared on Heal the Bay’s annual “Beach Bummers” list—a report card grading the cleanliness of state beaches. Doheny received an “F” for high levels of bacteria in winter months, rainy weather and at the San Juan Creek outlet but often fares better in dry summer months.
Councilman Bill Brough criticized the state’s lack of responsiveness to the issue, saying they’d rather take a regulatory angle than a helpful one. “We’ve exhausted what we can do at the city level,” said Mayor Lara Anderson. “We need help fixing it.” The city will request funding from state, local and private entities and pursue research grants via California’s Clean Beaches Initiative Grant Program.
THE LATEST: San Clemente’s Police Services Department bit the bullet and joined the social media ranks with a Facebook page of its own.
The page is part of the department’s effort to increase its online presence and better communicate with residents, said Lt. John Coppock, who became chief in March.
“The whole concern was, again, just to become more connected with the community,” he said.
The Facebook page currently has posts
on subjects such as proper installation of child car seats and fireworks safety.
WHAT’S NEXT: The department is currently working with the city’s technical staff to develop its own website as well, the chief said. He and fellow Orange County Sheriffs Deputies culled ideas for their site from other police agencies. Coppock hoped to have the site up by the end of the year.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.facebook. com/scpoliceservices for more information —SNG
THE LATEST: Four San Clemente residents have pulled papers to run for the two open City Council seats.
Thus far, City Councilmen Bob Baker and Jim Dahl are joined by political newcomers David J. Clegg and Michael Mortensen in the race for the open seats. City Treasurer Pall Gudgeirsson and City Clerk Joanne Baade, also incumbents, have also pulled papers for their respective offices. All open seats are for fouryear terms and will be voted upon in the November 6 election.
The longest-serving member of the council, Dahl, a retired firefighter, was first elected to office in 1996. A commercial airline pilot, Baker is finishing his first four-year term.
Mortensen is a business attorney who has lived in San Clemente since 2010. Clegg could not be reached by press time.
Each candidate can collect up to 30 signatures of San Clemente voters although only 20 validated voters are needed for a candidate to appear on the ballot, according to Baade.
WHAT’S NEXT: The deadline to return papers is August 10 at 5 p.m. If any incum-
bent does not file papers, the deadline is extended to August 15 at 5:30 p.m. to any resident except the incumbent. No one has returned papers yet, according to Baade. The city clerk encouraged candidates to submit papers by the August 10 deadline because the extension is not guaranteed.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit the city website at www.san-clemente.org. —SNG
THE LATEST: The insurance company holding the bond on the downtown fire station and Dorothy Visser Senior Center notified the city it planned to sue for breach of contract.
Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland filed a claim against San Clemente June 26, saying it sought the balance of the contract funds the company believes it is owed.
The original contractor, Gamut Construction, entered into a nearly $4.3 million agreement to build the facility but within about a year “voluntarily terminated” the contract. The city made a claim for completion of the work and Fidelity made good by finding a contractor, according to the legal documents.
The documents say when Tutor Perini took over work, city-caused delays increased project costs, among other claims.
City attorney Jeff Oderman said the city is in settlement discussions with Fidelity, and the amount currently disputed is $491,000.
WHAT’S NEXT: The claim is open for 45 days or until the city acts upon it, Oderman said. He said he’s hopeful that by the time a lawsuit could formally be filed, the case would be resolved.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.sanclementetimes.com for updates. —SNG
San Clemente
EYE ON SC
CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Thursday, July 26
Mutt & Members Sunset Networking Mixer & Expo 5:30 p.m. The tri-city chambers have an expo at Sepulveda Building Materials. Cost $10-$20. 28092 Forbes Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.
Friday, July 27
Seniors’ BBQ & Birthday Celebration 12 p.m. Celebration at The Dorothy Visser Senior Center with entertainment. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.
Saturday, July 28
Family Promise of Orange County Gala Dinner 6:30 p.m. Event at the Wilcox Manor featuring the non-profit that provides support to homeless families. $75-$125. 310 Pasadena Ave., Tustin, 714.353.0428, www.FamilyPromiseOrangeCounty.org.
Sunday, July 29
San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.
Monday, July 30
Help With Anxiety, Depression, Stress & Anger 10:45 a.m. Recovery International provides help to gain control over distressing emotions. Free. El Toro Library, 24672 Raymond Way, Lake Forest, 949.458.2504, www.recovery-inc.org.
Wednesday, August 1
Rubio’s Baja Grill Reading Program 10 a.m. Kids ages 4-12 can sign up at the library for the program to earn kid’s meal coupons for Rubio’s Baja Grill. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org.
Aegis of Dana Point Anniversary Event 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Aegis celebrates 12 years of service to seniors. 26922 Camino de Estrella, Dana Point, 949.488.2650, www.aegisliving.com.
General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting 6 p.m. Library Annex Building, Multi-Purpose Room. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Thursday, August 2
Kids Summer Show: Buster Balloon 10:30 a.m. Show for the kids at the Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org.
NEWS BITES
P ROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF I NFO
Girl Scout Earns Gold Award
u Sofia Medrano of San Clemente recently received the Gold Award, the highest honor in the Girl Scouts, and was recognized by the City Council at its meeting Tuesday, July 17. Medrano is a member of Troop 379 in San Clemente and has been a scout for 12 years. As part of her Gold Award project, Medrano implemented a leadership mentoring program at Las Palmas Elementary School.
Resident to Sing National Anthem at Pro Tennis Event
u Jolie Adamson has been selected to sing the National Anthem at the Farmer’s Classic ATP Men’s Tennis Tour. Adamson, a 2010 graduate of San Clemente High School, will sing Thursday, July 26 during Kids Day. She recently played a guest role on the CBS television show Criminal Minds
Resource Fair July 28
u The iHOPE Resource Center is hosting the Neighborhood Resource Fair on Saturday, July 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The community is invited to come and learn about free to low-cost services in fitness and wellness, children’s programs and cooking for a healthier lifestyle. Information regarding job search, housing assistance, legal services, counseling and credit will also be available. Food and drinks will be provided, and there will be activities and prizes for kids.
SCHS Alum Earns Spot in National Teaching Program
u San Clemente’s Tessa Mizokami has been accepted into Teach For America’s 2012 teaching corps. Mizokami is a 2008 graduate of San Clemente High School and recently received her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz. She joins the organization’s 23rd incoming corps, which numbers a record 5,800 teachers. Mizokami will be teaching in the Bay Area this fall. She was selected from a candidate pool of more than 48,000 applicants.
Baha’is Mark Founder’s US Visit
u The Baha’is of San Clemente commemorated the centenary of their leader’s visit to the United States on Sunday, July 1 by donating trees to Tierra Grande Park and celebrating with a Unity Picnic. Nearly 150 members and non-members came to watch as two holly oak trees were uncovered. Mayor Pro Tem Tim Brown spoke to the crowd about unity and world peace
before accepting the trees on behalf of the city. In addition to the donation, there were activities for children, free burgers, live music and intimate socialization. The Baha’i Faith was founded in Iran in 1844 and has more than five million followers, according to the Baha’is website in the United States. For more information, visit www.bahaicenter.org.
Casa Hosts Trip to San Diego
u Casa Romantica will host an allinclusive day trip to the San Diego Natural History Museum Tuesday, August 7, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., to view Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the famous ship’s sinking, the exhibition showcases some 200 artifacts retrieved from the wreck site, including delicate bottles of perfume, porcelain china bearing the logo of the White Star Line and other objects collected from research and recovery expeditions conducted by RMS Titanic, Inc. The trip is in concert with Casa Romantica’s summer event, Fossils, Shells and Sea Cows: A Walk and Swim through Time along the Southern California Coast,
which is on display through August 19. Tickets for the trip cost $75 per person and include admission, lunch and bus transportation. Reservations can be made by calling 949.498.2139 ext. 10.
$20K Raised for SC’s Youth Recreation Programs
u The Friends of San Clemente Foundation held their second annual Benefit Golf Tournament in support of local youth recreation programs on Friday, July 13 at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. More than 110 players participated in the event, which raised nearly $20,000. The proceeds will go toward classes and programs such as swimming, dance, drama, skateboarding and surfing, as well as funding for the second phase of Courtney’s Sandcastle project at Vista Hermosa Sports Park.
Degrees Awarded to Students
u San Clemente residents Devin Mathis, Randy Renk, Natalie Irene Selstad and Elizabeth Simon recently earned diplomas. Mathis graduated from DePaul University; Renk received a master’s of business administration in financial planning from California Lutheran University, Selstad received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Washington State University; and Simon received her bachelor’s degree from Emory University.
Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
Compiled by Brian Park
Sofia Medrano receives a commendation from City Councilwoman Lori Donchak and Mayor Jim Evert.
Photo by Stacie N. Galang
Mayor Pro Tem Tim Brown participated in the Baha’is of San Clemente’s Unity Picnic July 1 at Tierra Grande Park. Courtesy photo
EYE ON SC
Reinventing a Neighborhood
City works with outside groups to transform the Vista Los Mares neighborhood
By Stacie N. Galang San Clemente Times
It’s one of the city’s more densely populated neighborhoods. It houses some of the lowest wage earners. It boasts a population much younger than the rest of San Clemente. It was one of two areas listed in the gang injunction — the court document authorities use to tamp down on illegal activity.
Yet the Vista Los Mares neighborhood exists as an island — multi-million dollar homes surround the 1,300 residents of the two-block stretch. As such, the city can’t direct federal housing funds, as it does in other neighborhoods, to help with programs to improve one of its neediest sections, said Denise Obrero, San Clemente’s housing specialist.
“The census block doesn’t give us leeway to go into the neighborhood,” she said.
But in recent years, the city has taken a different strategy and organized programs with local nonprofits, faith-based organizations and law enforcement. It has encouraged outside groups like graduate students from the University of California, Irvine to bring fresh ideas to the discussion.
“It’s important that we continue to try and create opportunities, programs and events,” Obrero said. “We try to provide and get programs and activities and additional social services going on.”
Los Mares is filled with multi-family residences, four-plexes, for 175 households. The average household size is seven compared to the rest of San Clemente of 2.65, according to UCI graduate students’ report. More than 90 percent of the residents earn less than $35,000 a year compared to the average median income of $81,983 in all San Clemente.
Obrero said the neighborhood was formed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and only two property owners actually live there, meaning renters dominate the population. When the project was constructed, no homeowners’ association was formed.
The neighborhood also became a haven for gangs, but the gang injunction imposed in 2008 helped curb members’ activity.
Reported gang activity in Los Mares went from 31 incidents in 2009 to 22 in 2010 and three in 2011, according to the UCI report.
For a time, residents rarely left their apartments during the daytime because of the conditions, Orbrero said. It took nearly three years for her to form relationships with residents in the neighborhood.
“A lot of moms were fearful so they kept their kids inside,” she said. “Folks just kept to themselves.”
By making the community safer, neighbors have grown comfortable enough to interact with one another, Obrero said.
“We see clearly that this type of work
has a positive effect,” she said.
For the city, it’s also about social justice, Obrero said.
“As a mom, you be able to take your kids out whether you live in Talega or Los Mares,” she said.
SEEDS OF CHANGE
The effort formally started with a $40,000 grant for a community garden, Obrero said. The city partnered with nonprofit OC Human Relations to build the garden across generations.
“People would come together,” Obrero said. “There’s really a lot of passion for gardening.”
It was the first time an outside group held monthly community meetings, and the nonprofit’s work helped to build trust in the neighborhood, the housing specialist said.
While an element of the gangs continues to exist, their ability to intimidate is diminished as other groups come in and work with families.
Mission Hospital sends two employees into the neighborhood to work with moms on healthy living. They have organized Friday evening walks with mothers and spoken about ways to improve eating habits.
The housing specialist noted that area has no green space and as such kids have very little space to run and play. The Mission Hospital workers are also offering programs like zumba in the streets.
Resident Marcela Perez has emerged as a leader though she describes herself as terribly shy. The mother of three said she was spurred into the role about five years ago when she met with city officials after a fire scorched a tree on her property.
She has called San Clemente home for 22 years, and she and her husband Jaime Martinez purchased their four-plex 11 years ago as their second home. Her brother and his family lives in one of the units and they rent out the two other apartments.
“I would like to become a strong leader in my neighborhood,” said Perez, who works part-time as a student supervisor at Las Palmas Elementary. “That’s one of my goals.”
Perez and her husband raise their children 11-year-old Eduardo, 9-year-old Jahir and 10-month-old Leonel in a modest home in the neighborhood.
She has seen first hand the transformation the area is undergoing. They chose Los Mares because it provided more space for their growing family.
“For the last year and half, it’s been really, really good,” said the soccer mom. “Things are changing now. The neighbors are more friendly. They like to help each other.”
Perez welcomed the influx of groups who have helped create a more closely knit community. She appreciated them and the city for its efforts to make improvements.
“It’s been really nice with all the organizations that are interestd in these neighborhoods to help. We like that,” she said.
Still problems with absentee landlords persist. Perez said she often hears the frustration of neighbors whose landlords can’t be bothered to help with trash or respond more quickly to problems on the property.
Obrero is often frustrated by the lack of response by property owners. Her messages, more often than not, go unreturned.
MAKING PROGRESS IN LOS MARES
Obrero said she is working with Mission Hospital to seek additional grant funding from the St. Jude Foundation to tackle topics such as childhood obesity and diabetes.
More recently, volunteers from Saddleback Church turned out in droves June 30 to help with a neighborhood clean-up day. The city provided eight dumpsters, and the volunteers and residents collected discarded items, especially large items like couches and mattresses left behind by renters.
Saddleback has committed to helping implement the programs and worked with the UCI students. On August 11, the church will hand out backpacks filled with school supplies. They are still collecting donations for the project.
The city is also taking steps to implement the suggestions offered by the UCI students: Brian English, Lindsay Horn, Ryan Kelleher and Jared Riemer.
“We want to leave them with a community plan they can use,” Ryan Kelliher said at the time of their second community meeting in Los Mares.
Before the city’s work, residents thought the city didn’t listen or wouldn’t respond to their concerns, Perez said. As crime reduced more people came out of their homes and connected. The mother of three has been able to encourage neighbors to call the city and police when they have problems with trash, crime or graffiti.
“It’s more calm,” she said. “It’s a lot more comfortable… You can walk around. (There’s) not that pressure about the scary things that were going on. You can walk outside and you can see more the things.”
The housing specialist noted that changes are indeed afoot in Los Mares.
“At the end of the day, it’s a vibrant community,” Obrero said.
The transformation has been notable enough for residents to start their own tradition, like the annual Las Posadas procession in December for the past three years, Perez said. In Latin American countries, it’s a Christian practice stemming from the Mary and Joseph’s journey to find an inn to stay in Jerusalem prior to Jesus’ birth. A group goes from door to door seeking a place to stay.
“Things are changing,” Perez said. “A lot of things are going on.”
Perez noted that problems happen everywhere. She’s committed to her neighborhood and the city. She and her family has had the opportunity to visit other cities and states, but they would choose no other place to live.
“I guess people, their minds are changing,” Perez said. “I’m glad to be here. I’m just happy.” SC
A group of boys, who live in the Los Mares neighborhood, take a break after a neighborhood clean-up by volunteers from Saddleback Church. Courtesy photo
EYE ON SC SC Sheriff’s Blotter
COMPILED
BY
NEVILLE ROANE-KING
DISTURBANCE
Avenida Miramar, 200 Block (8:32 p.m.)
A caller reported hearing two men in a verbal altercation in which one of the men had threatened to cut the other. A second caller reported that one of the men could possibly be in possession of a baseball bat because he/she heard glass breaking and someone yelling to put the bat away.
CITIZEN ASSIST
Calle Campanero, 200 Block (1:59 p.m.)
A caller reported that a 13-year-old neighbor was in his garage, looking for a Frisbee, and then the caller gave the teen the Frisbee that was thrown. The caller suspected the neighbor was throwing the Frisbee in the garage on purpose so he could put a nail under the tire or a banana in the exhaust pipe of his car.
wife’s green Honda Accord, which was parked outside.
DISTURBANCE
Avenida Miramar, 100 Block (9:36 p.m.)
A 42-year-old construction worker was arrested and held on $25,000 bail after being armed with a baseball bat while in his neighborhood, trying to fight people. The caller reported the man as bi-polar.
CITIZEN ASSIST
Camino De Estrella/Interstate-5 (1:34 p.m.) A group of females was “flashing” vehicles driving southbound on Interstate 5. They were standing on the bridge overpass of Camino De Estrella.
Friday, July 20
Sunday, July 22
PATROL CHECK
El Camino Real, 1700 Block (11:33 p.m.)
An employee of Knuckleheads Sports Bar reported that people inside a gold Cadillac Escalade were throwing water balloons at customers. A second call was made at 12:21 a.m. Monday for the same gold Escalade still throwing water balloons.
DRUNK IN PUBLIC
Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (10:59 p.m.) A woman was escorted out of the Krikorian Premiere Theatres by security because she was intoxicated.
DRUNK DRIVING
Avenida Fabricante/Calle Extremo (9:03 a.m.) A driver who appeared to be drunken was reported driving his tan Dodge Caravan into a parking lot and then dumping out trash. The motorist was driving in donuts around the lot and ran into both a parked vehicle and a dumpster.
Saturday, July 21
VANDALISM IN PROGRESS
South El Camino Real/Avenida Ramona (11:44 p.m.) A 31-year-old construction worker was arrested after kicking his ex-
DISTURBANCE
Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (5:03 p.m.) A man, estimated to be between 55 and 60 years of age, was treated in the emergency room and refused to leave. He was seen wearing a hospital gown and baby blue-colored shoes while walking around rooms in the emergency room.
WELFARE CHECK
Cristianitos Road, 100 Block (4:47 p.m.)
A man called 9-1-1 after entering a family member’s apartment and finding a suicide note on the counter. The note, attached to the bedroom door, stated
not to come in but to call 9-1-1. No further information was provided.
Thursday, July 19
DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY
Capistrano Lane/Santa Ana Lane (11:50 p.m.) A caller reported that the residents of a house on the block were sitting on their balcony, being loud and telling passersby that they had been drinking all day.
DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE
Aqua Del Caballete, 4700 Block (6:43 p.m.) A man called deputies after getting into a verbal altercation with his mother. She had waved a screwdriver at him, telling him to leave.
DEFRAUDING AN INNKEEPER
Camino De Los Mares/Calle Agua (6:20 p.m.) A 35-year-old Starbucks employee was arrested after refusing to pay his taxi fare. At the time of the call, the man was still in the taxi van, but the driver believed he was going to flee.
DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE
Calle Amistad, 100 Block (3:39 p.m.) A man called police because he believed a 21-year-old man was beating up his own mother. The caller lived in the building next door and could hear a woman screaming and telling someone to get off of her. She was also heard calling for her 10-year-old.
HOW TO REACH US
SOAPBOX
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
BY THE NUMBERS:
SC
San Clemente
CITY EDITOR
Stacie N. Galang, 949.388.7700, x109 sgalang@sanclementetimes.com
ADVERTISING
PRINT AND ONLINE
Michele Reddick, 949.388.7700, x103 mreddick@sanclementetimes.com
DISTRIBUTION
RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS
Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@sanclementetimes.com
BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER
Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@sanclementetimes.com
PICKET FENCE MEDIA
ADVERTISING/MULTI-
Associate
ART/DESIGN
Senior
City’s Reserves, Liquidity Preserved for Rainy Day
I can show you that when it starts to rain everything’s the same —Rain by John Lennon/Paul McCartney
BY THE NUMBERS
Across the fiscal landscape, the notion of saving for a rainy day has taken on added import as several municipalities face the reality of filing bankruptcy. Although the reasons vary and the circumstances differ from town to town or county to county, governmental agencies and private sector companies may well face adversity stemming from recessions, loss of state funding, lawsuit damages, overwhelming debt or deficit spending. Thus, it is crucial for all of us to be prepared for rain, which leads to a question I am often asked: Is the city of San Clemente equipped to cope with fiscal turbulence?
To answer that question, I have outlined below our major reserves, or savings accounts, that have been established by Council-adopted “fiscal policies” that are annually tuned during the Long-Term Financial Plan process. The fiscal tenets for San Clemente are—and will continue to be—not spending beyond our means, but preservation of our assets and set-
ting aside bucks for possible inclement weather. The goal is to maintain positive cash flow and be geared up for that rainy day.
In addition to the above reserves in the City’s General — or main operating — Fund, money has been set aside in other capital and enterprise funds, such as Water, Sewer and Fleet, for the replacement of equipment and infrastructure to avoid issuing debt for large capital expenses.
The city’s fiscal weather report? Stable conditions, prepared for rain showers. We prefer the sunshine.
By the Numbers: General Fund Reserves
$1.7 million: Vista Hermosa Sports Park and San Clemente Aquatics Center reserve—a set-aside from the sale of land to Target Corp. in order to maintain and operate the new park and aquatics center.
$2.0 million: Unassigned fund balance— includes remaining resources available at the end of the fiscal year. These funds are typically allocated for capital projects rather than ongoing expenses that would result in deficit spending.
$4.5 million: Emergency Reserve (9 per-
Letters to the Editor
MANY THANKS TO COMMUNITY
LYNN
WOOD, Executive Director of the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce
The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, with its volunteers and donors, helped feed about 850 Marines of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines and their families at a Welcome Home Beach Bash last month at San Onofre State Park. We are so fortunate to have the community’s support. We had more than 75 volunteers, and many businesses donated items for the Marines. I just can’t believe the individual donations;
it is heart warming. There were so many businesses and individuals who donated to the Welcome Home Event. Thank you for showing your support and appreciation to the United States military personnel who risk their lives for our freedom and that of our nation. Thank you all for honoring the men and woman who sacrifice their lives for our freedom.
LET REGULATORS DECIDE SONGS’ FATE
GREG WADE, San Clemente
The city of San Clemente got a taste
cent of operating expenses)—to maintain essential programs during periods of economic downturn or to fund emergency expenditures. This can be termed our Rainy Day Reserve.
$10 million: Sustainability Reserve— to provide for economic and financial stability. The reserve may only be used for specific purposes, such as providing consistent and adequate level of services, providing future capital needs or providing for asset replacement. This reserve is
Megan Bianco, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak
INTERNS
Kevin Dahlgren, Sara Gold, Lindsey Jones, Andrea Maben, Neville Roane-King
a key to maintaining an AAA bond rating, which indicates a strong ability to meet our current and future financial commitments.
By the Numbers: Other Fund Reserves
$3.2 million: Operating reserves (8 percent of operating expenses) for Water, Sewer, Storm Drain, Solid Waste and Clean Ocean funds. Emergency reserves for our utilities.
$6.9 million: Replacement reserves for capital equipment, facilities maintenance, park assets and fleet vehicles. Keeping our capital assets well maintained saves money in the long run.
$12 million: Depreciation reserves for replacement of utility infrastructure.
$30.7 million: Capital Project Funds reserve for acquisition or construction of new parks, roads, drainage systems and public facilities. Does anyone remember the condition of our drainage systems and roads 20 years ago? SC
of the new normal with the power outages last Tuesday and Thursday, if San Clemente Green is allowed to get its way. San Clemente Green and its pipe organ, San Clemente Times, want the immediate and permanent shutdown of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. While there are reasons to shut SONGS down, there is no compelling reason to shut them down without first constructing replacement power. San Clemente Green and San Clemente anti-nuke City Councilwoman Lori Donchak have failed to implement or
even offer up a plan for replacement power. Thus, with this lack of credibility and lack of a clear-and-present danger, I’m going to leave it up to regulators and the California Public Utilities Commission to determine the fate of this $80 billion electricity generator.
WHAT’S SAN CLEMENTE’S STANCE ON TOLL ROADS?
JANICE SMITH, San Clemente Another newspaper recently had an (Cont. on page 10)
Pall Gudgeirsson
By Pall Gudgeirsson, Assistant City Manager & City Treasurer
GUEST OPINION:
By Robbie Bachar, certified advanced health and fitness specialist
Exercise for Seniors Key to Physical, Mental Longevity
Work with San Clemente’s older residents a point of pride
There is no them, just us.” These words recently jumped off the page of a book and into my heart. They also closely sum up the experience I have daily, working inside the Gary and Mary West Wellness Center located at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center.
Our thriving fitness center brings many San Clemente seniors who are getting proactive with their health. Our members are doing so in a safe, supervised atmosphere that provides positive encouragement and peer support. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are beginning your journey to better health, it can be achieved. Tremendous gains in strength, balance and flexibility can occur at any age with effort. Simply put, a fitness program benefits everyone.
Our fitness center and its members are very special. This is where we get to the “us” part that speaks so loudly to me. We are all aging, and if lucky enough, we all will have the opportunity to be healthy, active seniors. Those of us who are younger often take our good health for granted and are not aware of the serious social isolation that often occurs within older
populations when there is a loss in health and quality of life. Poor health results in being less active and leads to more seniors being house-bound with limited access to social interaction and activities. This
Letters to the Editor (cont.)
(Cont. from page 8) article and a map about the Rancho Mission Viejo development near San Clemente. The map shows the southbound 241 Toll Road dumping into Avenida Pico in San Clemente. Since a majority of San Clemente residents think connecting the toll road here is a terrible idea due to congestion and loss of homes in Talega via eminent domain, what’s the City Council’s position on this? Is Jim Dahl, San Clemente’s representative to the Transportation Corridor Agencies, on record opposing this map and asking for it to be changed? Did he vote to approve the TCA’s segmented approach that, according to the map, is proposing a segment ending at Avenida Pico? Has our representative had any success influencing the TCA on this matter? It appears he just attends meetings, cashes his paychecks and gives a thumbs-up to whatever the TCA bigshots want.
NO NUKE PLANT IS TOTALLY SAFE
MARVIN DENNIS, San Clemente
It seems Councilman Bob Baker has missed the point entirely, regarding San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, when he states — often over the last few years — that he was “against telling experts how to do their job.”
The point is not about “how.” It’s about whether they should continue to have to do their job at San Onofre at all. If he believes what he says, “Anyone within arms’ length of the nuclear power issue knows there are problems at San Onofre,” then he should have a better understanding of the real issue: Keep it open with all the risks or shut it down.
I’ve said before that nuclear power is extremely safe, with redundant systems everywhere to keep every imaginable problem from happening. The problem is that this plant — or any plant — cannot be 100 percent safe from what we can imagine and is not even close to safe from the things we cannot. The smallest probability of an accident has an absolutely horrible consequence for the millions of people who live within the evacuation zone for the plant.
Does anyone think the smartest people at Fukashima ever thought there would be an earthquake that would generate a tsunami that would knock out their back-up power and lead to the disaster that occurred there? Of course not. Yet, it happened.
The number of things that can go wrong at SONGS has to be staggering, and fallible human beings are operating this thing. Being perfectly safe for 10, 20 or 30 years is a credit to how dedicated and
can
More physical activity and healthier lifestyles pave the way to a better quality of life. Since we are now living longer with
chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis, we can expect to experience substantial physiological and psychological benefits from consistent physical activity. We must embrace that no value can be put upon quality of life. Quality of life is really what we all are after.
In the course of one shift at the fitness center, I have the opportunity to interact with a group of individuals that have incredible life experience and wisdom. They have made very significant contributions to society. They deserve the utmost respect and more importantly, a quality of life now that they are in their golden years. They have served younger generations well, and now, it is our turn to serve them. I am so proud to be a fitness professional with genuine opportunity to give something back to people so incredibly deserving. No price can be put upon making a difference in the lives of others. SC
competent the people are. But missing once is all it takes.
No matter how many chambers this gun has, we’re still playing Russian roulette.
WORDS AREN’T CHEAP IN WAR
JERRY COLLAMER, San Clemente
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton offered Pakistan a sincere “We’re Sorry” apology for our accidental killing of 24 Pakistani soldiers seven months ago. Because of our deadly mistake, Pakistan closed our military supply truck route through their country—our most direct supply route to Afghanistan.
The U.S. offered many apologies, but we hadn’t said “We’re Sorry.” Two words, and bingo, the truck route is now reopened. How much did the route closure cost us: $100 million per month for seven months, or $700 million. The detour around Pakistan went through Russia and
Central Asia. Google a map of Central Asia to see just how far the supply-detour was. It cost $100 million a month for a simple detour through, several neighboring nations. All in a days work, in war.
Seems like, listening to the news, the political air is filled with this and that expense: state budgets, federal budgets, city and county budgets, campaign war chests, money owed, money promised, money swindled, CEO payouts and, of course, money lost—poof, gone to where?
Millions, billions and trillions—dollars here, there, everywhere. But usually not in the place where it’s needed most, except in war. It cost $100 million a month for a military detour. Ironically, that’s the cheap part of war. Two words saved us $100-million a month. That’s $50 million a word. War talk ain’t cheap. Wonder what the savings is for three words: “We’re going home.”
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ sanclementetimes.com. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. Please limit your letters to 350 words.
Longtime San Clemente resident Ed Germann, 90, works out in the Dorothy Visser Senior Center’s fitness center with Robbie Bachar. Courtesy photo
spur depression, poor nutrition and a sedentary lifestyle.
SC
GETTING OUT THE LIST
A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK
thursday 26
BEACH CONCERT 6 p.m. Paperback Writer, a Beatles tribute, performs on the beach at the San Clemente Pier. Bring your chairs and snacks for a fun evening of music. Free. 949.361.8200, ww.san-clemente.org.
BILLY WATSON 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www. thecellarsite.com.
SAWDUST FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-10 p.m. The annual arts and crafts exhibit is now open, featuring more than 200 local Laguna artists. Tickets $7.75 general admission. Runs through Sept. 2. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, www.sawdustartfestival.org.
friday 27
RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY CIRCUS
7:30 p.m. Circus at the Honda Center now through August 5. Check for varying dates and times. Tickets start at $21.50. 2695 E. Katella, Anaheim, 714.704.2500, www.hondacenter. com.
HART & SOUL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Songs from the Great American songbook at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.
RIVERBEND VINEYARD & WINERY TASTING 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company welcomes Riverbend Vineyard & Winery from Los Olivos, Santa Barbara County. Try seven tastes for $15, plus crackers, cheese and chocolate. 2 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.
FRIDAY NIGHTS AT THE SHORE 9 p.m.-12 a.m. The new music hot spot every Friday night at The Shore; this week featuring the Cholulas. 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.6089, www.theshoresanclemente.com.
AT THE MOVIES: ‘THE DARK KNIGHT’ THRILLS
The final episode of the most innovative comic book/movie franchise of the last decade arrives in DC Comics and Chris Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises. After a reluctant acceptance of Batman Begins (2005), Katie Holmes dropping out of the The Dark Knight (2008) and the sudden, shocking death of Joker actor Heath Ledger months before the release of the second film, the sequel becoming one of the most critically and financially successful movies of all time was certainly overwhelming. Now, four anticipated years later, the saga ends with The Dark Knight Rises. The story picks up eight years later, and nasty, mask-hidden terrorist Bane (Tom Hardy) is ready and willing to take the Joker’s place. Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) has become heavily reclusive, but cat burglar Selina Kyle (Anne Hathaway), optimistic cop John Blake (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and socialite Miranda Tate (Marion Cotillard) might help him save the day. Michael Caine, Gary Oldman and Morgan Freeman return for the finale, and Matthew Modine and Juno Temple are added as sidekicks. Bale, Hathaway and Gordon-Levitt lead the film effortlessly, and Hardy and Cotillard are visually impressive despite some awkward lines. The tragedy of the recent Colorado shootings has movie-goers understandably cautious to see The Dark Knight Rises. But those who do will find one of the most thrilling, action-packed, star-studded, surprising and, ultimately, entertaining endings to an era of Batman or aWny superhero. — Megan Bianco
saturday 28
WARRIOR GAMES SHOOTING COMPETITION
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Shooting competition at OnTarget Shooting Range. Proceeds to benefit Marines through Socks for Heroes. $25. 27692 Camino Capistrano, Laguna Niguel, 310-728-9166, www.scmsg.org/events/warrior-games.
NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCE FAIR 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Event at the iHOPE Resource Center to educate on free and low-cost services for families in need, including wellness programs, kids’ programs, healthy lifestyles, job assistance and more. 106 W. Canada, San Clemente, www.ihopeoc.org, www.sanclementecollaborative.com.
ART SHOW GRASSROOTS 6 p.m. San Clemente Community Market presents Art Show Grassroots at The Coop, featuring artists, music, food, drinks and more. 1506 Calle Valle, San Clemente, 949.441.1266, www.sanclementemarket.com.
LIVE MUSIC CRUISE 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Dana Wharf hosts the music cruise on the 95-foot Dana Pride with a full bar and more. Cost $19. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.
EARTH, WIND & FIRE 8 p.m. Concert in the Pacific Amphitheatre at the OC Fair. Tickets start at $19.75. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.
sunday 29
COAST CULTURE EXHIBITION: FOSSILS, SHELLS AND SEA COWS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Exhibition at Casa Romantica. $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.
SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a free concert at Sea Terrace Park, featuring Fan Halen—Tribute to Van Halen. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org.
FLOCK OF 80’S 3 p.m. Live ’80s covers at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.
THE OUTSANE AND SEA CURE 7 p.m. Live at The Coach House. $12. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.
monday
30
SLAM IN THE RIBS POETRY NIGHT 8 p.m. Open mic for poetry at The Rib Joint Roadhouse. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949. 661.9500, www.ribjointdanapoint.com.
TREASURES IN YOUR ATTIC? ANTIQUE EVENT
7 p.m. Jennifer Garey, of Arts and Antiquities, Inc., visits the library to talk about collectible treasures, how to preserve them and how to value them. Attendees can bring one small treasure for an informal evaluation. 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org
MOMMY MOVIE MONDAY 10 a.m. Special screening of the movie Step Up Revolution for parents of infants at the Krikorian, with early bird prices. 641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com.
tuesday
31
DANA POINT BLOOD DRIVE 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Donate blood at Dana Point City Hall. 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.redcrossblood.org.
WILL HEARD & GARY ROACH 9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.
KALEIDO-KIDS REPTILE SHOW 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Reptile show for kids at the Kaleidoscope. Free. 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy., Mission Viejo, www.gokaleidoscope.com.
wednesday 01
WEDNESDAY WINE
TASTING 7 p.m.–8 p.m. Wine tasting at Vine featuring four-courses with wine pairings. $40. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.
ART EXHIBIT: THE RACERS 10 a.m.-6 p.m. New exhibit on endurance car racing with vintage photos on display at KONA Gallery and Photojournalism Center through September 21. 412 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.481.3747, www.TheKonaGallery.com.
*For
Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com
Christian Bale and Anne Hathaway in The Dark Knight Rises © Warner Bros. Entertainment
SC LIVING
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
4SC
50: Tom Blake
SUDOKU
by Myles Mellor
Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9X9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3X3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium
See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
South OC Champs Meet and Greet Club has Successful Debut
By Tom Blake
On Thursday, July 19, the South OC Champs, a newly established meet and greet age 50-plus singles club, held its first gathering at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. More than 70 singles attended. Phyllis Taylor, San Juan Capistrano, said, “I had a really good time! I have a male friend I will bring next time; it was fun talking to the other women also. A special, fun evening and great eats, too!”
As the owner of Tutor and Spunky’s, my life partner, Greta Cohn, of San Clemente and I decided to establish the meet and greet club. Cohn said, “We have lots of older single friends who frequently tell us they’d like to have a place to gather in a casual environment. With the deli now open at night, and serving beer and wine, we decided to give it a try. Based on the great turnout at our first gathering, we plan to have meet and greets on the second Thursday of each month.”
Nicole Marie and her friend Stella Henry took a bus from Newport Beach down Pacific Coast Highway to attend. It took an hour and then they took the bus back at 8:15 p.m. Nicole Marie said, “Every Champ who attended Thursday’s meet and greet is grateful to you for hosting the event and allowing a roomful of strangers to descend upon the deli. Stella was thrilled to get a ‘personal escort’ to the bus stop!”
Ken Stetter, Aliso Viejo, said, “I enjoyed the first singles night, got to see a couple of good friends, Shirley and
Bill. What a very small world it is. I have two single male friends that I will attempt to get to attend the August event.”
Bob Fox, Laguna Beach, and Greta’s son, Tony Marchello, San Juan Capistrano, volunteered as bartenders. Of course, as bartenders, one responsibility was to engage in conversation with the Champs. They did that well. Fox winked and jokingly said, “For a buck, we will check their ID to ensure they are old enough to have an
adult beverage.”
Cohn said, “We need to improve the ratio of women to men. The quality of the women who attended was exceptional. Once single guys find that out, they will be lining up at the door.”
Alex Rentzeperis, owner of the Sports Barber, Dana Point, got a few chuckles from the crowd when he announced that he will tell all of the age 50-plus men whose hair he cuts that they have to attend future meet and greets or he will shave their heads.
Cohn added, “For the August 9 meet and greet, we are having a contest with a prize for the woman who brings the most single men that they aren’t dating: a complimentary meal for four at the deli.”
There is no age limit. Widows, widowers, divorced and never- married people are welcome. The environment is casual and non-intimidating for older singles, with a focus on developing friendships. Any romantic connections that evolve would simply be the frosting on the cake. We hope older singles will spread the word. To be added to the mailing list, email me at tompblake@gmail.com.
Next South OC Champs Meet and Greet: Thursday, August 9, 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, 949.248.1681. No cover charge. Happy hour prices. Light snacks served. Low-cost special evening menu. SC
PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the San Clemente Times staff. We appreciate their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@sanclementetimes.com.
From left Shea, Nicole, Tom, Stella and Greta. Courtesy of Tom Blake
SC LIVING
Ocean Fest a Success
2012 event draws 60K
They came. They saw. They conquered sand and sea at the 36th annual San Clemente Ocean Festival July 21 and 22.
Nearly 60,000 visitors came to the beach at the San Clemente Pier to participate in the competition and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“I think, overall, it was a very successful event,” said Peggy Vance, executive director of the San Clemente Ocean Festival. “The athletes definitely seemed to be enjoy themselves, and our volunteers were incredible.”
Participants in the sand sculpting team contest pulled off a feat just completing their works of art before high tide washed them away, she noted. This year’s festival also added a full schedule of stand-up paddleboard competitions on top of the already loaded slate of contests.
The executive director said the Children’s Pavilion had a record weekend in turnout and the band Flock of 80’s drew one of the largest crowds she could recall.
Whether they watched the dory boat races, swam a mile in the ocean or checked out the woodies, good fun was had by all. SC
— Stacie N. Galang
Liliana Morrison dances on the pier as Michael Landingham and Aaron Sriggs entertain visitors of the Ocean Festival. Photo by Kevin Dahlgren
Hundreds jumped at the chance to have their photos “on the cover” of the SC Times “Cover” photos can be downloaded on the SC Times facebook page. Staff photos
Members of Doggie Bag Walks won the Castles & Things category. Photo by Andrea Maben
Biathlon competitors begin the event with a 1K swim followed by a 5K run. Photo by Bill Maben
Over a thousand of rubber ducks were released Sunday afternoon for the 20th Annual Rubber Duck Race as the concluding event. Photo by Andrea Maben
A visitor checks out the 20th annual woodie car exhibit along the pier Sunday afternoon. Photo by Andrea Maben
Onlookers watch carefully as dory boat racers leave their boats to sprint for the finish line. Photo by Kevin Dahlgren
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
C LA SSI F IE DS
Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com
COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE
GOLDENSPRING DR. off Del Obispo Street, Dana Point - First Street North of Stonehill by Orange Engine. Canoe, Large New Carpet pieces, Tools, Wetsuit, Beach Boards, Gas Grill, Tables, Suitcases, Household items, Bikes and Clothes from many homes.
FRIDAY/SATURDAY/SUNDAY: 171 CALLE CUERVO, SAN CLEMENTE
STARTING AT 7:30am-2 NO EARLY BIRDS, PLEASE!!! Some “Antiques”
*1980’s Victorian Oak High Chair *Mahogany Antique Secretary Desk *Vintage Singer Sewing Machine * Victrola Phonograph, records and more *Pickard Dishes, bowls and more *Heirloom Flatware/Oneida. Also included: Art, Glassware, Dishes, Corningware, Pots and Pans, Men and Woman’s Clothing, Coins, Furniture and more....
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm
MAINTENANCE/FACILITIES MANAGER Orange County Arts facility is seeking a self motivated part time/full time facilities manager. Successful applicant would be responsible for maintenance of historic building and grounds. Responsibilities include but are not limited to grounds keeping, cleaning, handyman work, electrical, plumbing, maintenance, tile and carpentry work, banquet and event set up and tear down and other functions. May require evening and/or weekend hours. Information Technology or audio experience a bonus. Drug/alcohol test and references required. Send employment and wage history to crccghr@gmail.com.
WEEKEND/NIGHT SITE SUPERVISOR: Orange County Arts facility is seeking a flexible individual interested in performing maintenance and setup/teardown for Exhibitions and Private events. Duties include day of event support, routine groundskeeping and cleaning. Weekend and night work is a requirement. Drug/Alcohol test and references required. Please send employment and wage history to crccghr@gmail.com.
FORSTER RANCH, SAN CLEMENTE, SINGLE STORY 3bd/2ba 2000 sq ft, end of cul de sac, great yard, walk to park and schools. $679,000 Call George, Agent, Tarbell,Realtors 949-812-9990
Locals Only
BUSINESS
AIR CONDITIONING
Oasis Heating & Air
949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com
APPLIANCES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS
ASAP Appliance Service
949.361.7713 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com
ART GALLERIES
San Clemente Art Association
949.492.7175
100 N. Calle Seville, www.scartgallery.com
BEAUTY SUPPLY
Del Mar Beauty Supply
150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com
BOOKS
Mathom House Books
949.492.8180
949.361.1633
83 Via Pico Plaza, www.mathomhousebooks.com
Village Book Exchange 949.492.1114
99 Avenida Serra
CARPET
Designer’s Magic Flooring
949.496.1926
638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Dr. R. Tyler Johnson DC, Chiropractic Center 1502 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6440 www.chiropracticcenteronline.com
Christiansen Chiropractic 949.276.2956 903 Calle Amancer, Ste. 230, www.christiansenchiro.com
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate
949.369.1052 99 Avenida Del Mar, www.schmidschocolate.com
COINS
GraCorp Coins & Collectibles 949.350.4692 www.gracorpcoins.com Kevin
COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES
San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581
CONCRETE
Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656 License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com
COSMETICS
AVON 949.370.0433
Annie Kyle, www.youravon.com/anniekyle
Mary Kay Cosmetics 949.248.2868 www.marykay.com/madams2
DENTISTS
Eric Johnson, D.D.S.
949.493.9311 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, www.drericjohnson.com
ELECTRICAL
Arcadia Electric
949.361.1045 www.arcadiaelectric.com
FILM AND VIDEO PRODUCTION
Red Point Digital 801.573.2370 www.redpointdigital.com
FLOORING
Designer’s Magic Flooring
949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G -105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Images/Creative Solutions
949.366.2488 2927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com
HAIR SALONS
Kreative Hair Design
949.498.6245 173 Avenida Serra
HEATING
All Season Air
949.579.0741 allseasonair@gmail.com, www.allseasonair.net
Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
INSURANCE
Complete Business Insurance 949.943.9081
647 Camino de los Mares Ste. 108, www.HelpYouInsurance.com
MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY
Janet M. Seymour, PsyD 949.633.0813 1443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B
MATTRESSES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
MOLD REMOVAL
Jarvis Restoration -24/7
949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com
MORTGAGES
Brian Wiechman, 949.533.9209 V.I.P. Independent Mortgage Inc. www.vipmtginc.com/team/brianwiechman
MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE
SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com
MUSIC LESSONS
Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 www.danmans.com
Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com
OFFICE FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS) 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com
PEST CONTROL
Colony Termite Control
949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com
PET SITTING
Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074 San Clemente, dalmatian.love@cox.net
PHOTOGRAPHY
Memories Of Me Photos
949.361.0680 www.memoriesofmephotos.com
PLUMBING
A to Z Leak Detection
949.499.4464 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.atozleakdetection.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing 949.492.3558 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com
Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com
POOL/SPA SERVICE & REPAIR
Radiant Pool & Spa Service 949.290.5616 www.radiantpoolservice.com
PRESCHOOLS
San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 163 Avenida Victoria, www.sanclementepreschool.com
PRINTING
Printing OC
949.388.4888 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com
PSYCHOLOGISTS
Barbara M. Thomas, PsyD
949.547.0833
655 Camino de Los Mares, Ste. 117 Janet M. Seymour, PsyD 949.633.0813 1443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B Manny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 888.949.5150
300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com
REAL ESTATE
Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631 San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.com
Century 21 OMA - Eric Benson 949.584.3751 www.sanclementecoastalhomes.com
Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County marciegeorge@cox.net 949.690.5410
McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Properties www.livetalega.com 949.464.3226
“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax www.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236
REMODEL
Casa Verde Homes 949.212.5800 License #B 906391, www.casaverderenovation.com
Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso
114 Avenida Del Mar #4
Choose the Local Lender you can Trust! Deep family roots in San Clemente and Dana Point. Specializing in First Time Home Buyers, 2nd homes and Investment properties. FHA, VA, Conventional, Jumbo, and Portfolio Lending products, Refinances too! Rates are at a historical low, so call Brian Wiechman at (949) 533-9209!
Sanctuary Salon & Spa
949.429.5802 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com
949.366.9386
Carbonara Trattoria 949.366.1040
111 Avenida Del Mar, #B, www.carbonara.com
The Cellar 949.492.3663
156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com
ROOFING CONTRACTORS
www.jarvisrestoration.com
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE
SPORTS SPOTLIGHT
Tritons Water Polo Club Hits Stride for Jr. Olympics
In a final tune-up before they head to Palo Alto, Calif. for the USA Water Polo Junior Olympics, the San Clemente Tritons Water Polo Club 10U team pulled off a stunning tournament win at Irvine’s Northwood High July 21.
The Tritons went into the tournament ranked No. 21 overall — based on USAWP rankings — and defeated three teams ranked in the top-15 for a clean, three-game sweep.
San Clemente
The biggest of the three upsets the team pulled off over the weekend was an 11-6 victory over No. 3 United out of Washington State. That big win catapulted the Tritons to a 14-4 win over
Athletic Prowess on Display at Ocean Fest
Hundreds join in beach, ocean contests
By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times
Hundreds of athletes descended on the San Clemente Ocean Festival July 21 and 22 to take part in all kinds of activities on and off the water during the two-day event at the San Clemente Pier. As festival attendees and beach goers walked up and down the strand over the weekend, they were treated to non-stop activity all around them. Saturday featured the more professional competitions, on a schedule filled with dory boat races and Iron Man competitions. Sunday’s events featured a 5K beach run, biathlons, a dash-n-splash race and the ever popular, 1-mile ocean swim, which drew 163 swimmers. Here is a run-down of top finishers from each Ocean Festival event. See www.sanclementetimes.com for full results.
No. 6 Huntington Beach and a 15-7 victory over No. 13 Northwood.
Members of the SC Tritons include Riley Kraatz, Everett Prussak, Dylan
Gallegos, Roland Mantecon, Hayden Kahn,Tyler Douglas, Spencer Snow, Tanner Powell and Andrew Gansel.
The SC Tritons will square off against another 10U team from San Clemente, the Orange County Water Polo Club, in their first game of the Jr. Olympics August 2 at 11 a.m. The OCWPC, led by head coach Peter Asic, has been operating out of the Vista Hermosa Aquatics Center since late May and is ranked 12th overall. Both teams have been playing well recently and will proudly represent San Clemente in the games.
—Steve Breazeale
Men’s 40-49
SATURDAY, JULY 21
Dory Race 1
1. Mitch Kahn, Rob Pelkey
2. David Cartlidge, Tom Seth
3. Brett Wolf, Dave Devoer
Dory Race 2
1. Tom Seth, Dave Cartlidge
2. Mitch Kahn, Rob Pelkey
3. Dave Devoer, Brett Wolf
International Iron Man
Men’s Open
1. Brian Murphy
2. Russ Goulding
3. Haydn Tierney
Women’s Open
1. Alexandra Brown
2. Alison Riddle
3. Emma Armstrong
American Iron Man
Men’s Open
1. Rob Pelkey
Women’s Open
1. Taylor Spivey
SUNDAY, JULY 22
5K Beach Run Age
Group Winners
Men’s 1-14
Ryan Davis
Women’s 1-14
Charlotte Ranson
Men’s 15-19
Matt Parker
Women’s 15-19
Sage Pfeiffer
Men’s 20-29
David Mcerlean
Women’s 20-29
Nicki Arnold
Men’s 30-39
Isiah Grant
Women’s 30-39
Nicole Sayer
Keith Meter
Women’s 40-49
Tiffany Cassano
Men’s 50-59
Larry Moore
Women’s 50-59
Kerry Deputy
Men’s 60-69
Daniel O’Donnell
Women’s 60-69
Ann Tack
Men’s 70-99
Jon Malhekoff
Biathlon
1. Fabian Villanueva
2. Keith Meter
3. Brad Ewart
1-Mile Ocean Swim
1. Evan Kraus
2. Brian Lim
3. Randy Eickhoff
WatermanWaterwoman
Men’s Open
1. Anthony Vela
2. Christopher Chandler
3. Kevin Nerison
Men’s Senior 1. Scott Cheney
Women’s Open
1. Candice Appleby 2. Jen Higginson
3. Emmy Merrill
Women’s Senior
Diane Wenzel
Women’s Junior
Alleanna Clark
400m Run-Swim-Run
Scott Brandenburg
Evan Kraus
Mitchell Gerritzen
Scott Brandenburg
Christian Renfro
Members of the San Clemente Tritons Water Polo Club celebrate their tournament win in Northwood July 21. Courtesy photo
Paddleboarders ride the waves into shore during the Paddleboard Sprint race. Photo by Kevin Dahlgren
Brett Wolf runs to finish the second leg of the men’s Dory boat race on Saturday. Photo by Kevin Dahlgren
Swimmers and dory boat racers make a mad dash to the finish. Photos by Andrea Swayne
Participants of the 5K Beach Run take off early Sunday morning to kickoff day two of the 2012 Ocean Festival. Photo by Bill Maben
Brandi Baksic finished eighth in American Iron Man and first in open SUP on Saturday. Photo by Andrea Maben
SC SURF 6SC
San Clemente
GROM OF THE WEEK Ethan Schaffer
Sheri Crummer/seasister.com
Age: 14, San Clemente High School
Ethan Schaffer spent last season surfing SSS contests as a member of the Bernice Ayer Middle School team. This summer he’s putting in the hours preparing for San Clemente High School team tryouts in the fall and the upcoming WSA Championship tour. Ethan started surfing three years ago after picking up the sport himself and learning the basics through trial and error and paddling out with friends. This summer’s sessions—nearly every day at Lowers, Rivi or T Street—have largely been devoted to improving his airs and landing them consistently. In school, Ethan is a straight ‘A’ student whose favorite subject is math. “School is important to me so I can have a good job and better opportunities in life,” he said. Ethan wants to go to college but says he can’t help but chase a professional surfing career as well. “Of course, I’d like to be a pro surfer but after that I hope to be in a career where I can help people,” he said. Ethan also enjoys basketball and after seven years of Pop Warner football, he’s considering trying out for the high school team as a sophomore. When asked where his greatest support comes from, he answered, “Mom,” without hesitation. “My mom is pretty awesome and cool. She supports me by taking me to the beach and shooting photos of me. She’s a great photographer. I’m proud of her for starting her own business. She works very hard at it and her hard work inspires me to always do my best.” —Andrea Swayne
Catching Waves at the ‘Greatest Show on Surf’
SC Ocean Festival offers variety of events for surfers
By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times
The 36th Annual San Clemente Ocean Festival isn’t just for swimmers, dory boat racers and rubber duckies; the event offers plenty of competitive opportunities for board sports athletes as well. From stand-up paddlers and surf skiers to grom surfers ages 14 and under, the Ocean Fest brought out some of the area’s most talented, fit and stoked competitors to test their skills at the San Clemente Pier, July 21 and 22.
Here are results from the surfing and surf-related portion of the weekend’s events. Full results from the Groms Rule Surf Contest are listed along with the top three finishers in each of the SUP and surf ski events.
For full results and more photos, log on to www.sanclementetimes.com. SC
GROMS RULE SURF CONTEST
BOYS 10U: 1. Kai McPhillips, San Clemente; 2. Hagan Johnson, San Clemente; 3. Thatcher Johnson, Hawaii; 4. Luca Aza, San Clemente; 5. Kade Matson, San Clemente; 6. Jackson Fleming, Dana Point. BOYS 11-14: 1. Conner Dand, San Clemente; 2. Curran Dand, San Clemente; 3. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente; 4. Drew Hemnes, San Clemente; 5. Ethan Mudge, Capistrano Beach; 6. Shane Hardy, San Clemente. GIRLS 10U: 1. Liv Stokes, Aliso Viejo; 2. Grace Pelkey, San Clemente; 3. Zoe Mortensen, Capistrano Beach; 4. Makenna Doan, San Diego; 5. Alaina Heater, Florida; 6. Reese Dewey, San Clemente. GIRLS 11-14: 1. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente; 2. Michelle Mason, San Clemente; 3. Malia Ward, San Clemente; 4. Alexxa Elseewi, San Clemente; 5. Cate Stokes, Aliso Viejo; 6. Kalifornia Senn, San Clemente.
OPEN OCEAN PADDLE
MEN OPEN STOCK: 1. Brian Lauich, 2. Tristan Holls, 3. Colin McPhillips. MEN OPEN UNLIMITED: 1. Anthony Vela, 2. Deon Loureus, 3. James Bruce. WOMEN OPEN STOCK: 1. Candice Appleby, 2. Kelsey O’Donnell, 3. Jo Ambrosi. MEN OPEN 12: 1. Ryan Helm, 2. Fernando Stalla, 3. Dave Boehne. WOMEN OPEN 12: 1. Brandi Baksic, 2. Alison Riddle, 3. Kristin Thomas. MEN OPEN 14: 1. Byron Kurt, 2. Chance Fielder, 3. Sean Pangelinan. MEN OPEN SURF SKI: 1.Rick Sprout, 2, Brian Murphy, 3. Rob Pelkey.
SURF RACE
MEN OPEN: 1. Anthony Vela, 2, Micah Carlson, 3. Scott Diederich. WOMEN OPEN: 1. Taylor Spivey, 2, Alison Riddle, 3. Samantha Cain.
SURF SKI RACE
MEN OPEN: 1. Tom Penney, 2, Rich Sprout, 3. Rob Pelkey. WOMEN OPEN: 1. Tandis Morgan, 2, Alexandra Brown, 3. Emma Armstrong.
1K PADDLE RACE
MEN OPEN: 1. Brian Murphy, 2. Shane Scoggins, 3. Tyler Morgan. WOMEN OPEN: 1. Alison Riddle, 2. Candice Appleby, 3. Taylor Spivey.
SUP TEAM RELAY
1. Candice Appleby, Anthony Vela, Fernando
Stalla and Ryan Helm; 2. Mitch Kahn, Rob Pelkey, Brandi Baksic and Byron Kurt; 3. Taylor Morgan, Bryan Murphy, Brett Wolf and Alison Riddle.
3.5-MILE SUP RACE
JUNIOR GIRLS 12: 1. Alleanna Clark, 2. Alexandria Higgins. JUNIOR BOYS 12: 1. Nick Scheel. OPEN WOMEN 12: 1. Candice Appleby, 2, Brandi Baksic, 3. Diane Wenzel. OPEN MEN 12: 1. Anthony Vela, 2, Keith Meter, 3. Kevin Nerison. SENIOR WOMEN 12: 1. Suzette Barruc, 2. Jericho Poppler. SENIOR MEN 12: 1. Bruce Brunson, 2, Scott Cheney, 3. Norm Scheel. OPEN MEN 14: 1. Eric Starnes, 2. Tatsumi Kawai, 3. Mike Irete. SENIOR MEN 14: 1. Rod Loftis, 2, Bob Farrar, 3. Mike Downey. OPEN WOMEN SURF: 1. Lori Heckenkame, 2. Kathy Ashmore. OPEN MEN SURF: 1. Mark Leierhoefer, 2. Ryan Kollock, 3. Bill Carey.
Ethan Schaffer. Photo by
San Clemente resident Malia Ward is all smiles as she makes a turn off the top in the Groms Rule Surf Contest, July 22. Photo by Sheri Crummer/seasister.com
John Clark of San Clemente competes in a SUP race at the San Clemente Ocean Fest, July 21. Photo by Andrea Swayne
