April 24, 2014

LO C A L

N EWS

April 24-30, 2014

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INSIDE: 2014 Summer Camp Guide SPECIAL PULLOUT VOLUME 9, ISSUE 17

Brewing Something Big Weekend brew fest to celebrate San Clemente’s growing craft beer industry EYE ON SC/PAGE 8

Left Coast Brewing will host its fourth annual San Clemente Micro-Brew Fest this weekend. Lead brewer Jim Clarke, general manager Tommy Hadjis and master brewer Randal Dilibero show off the medal the brewery just won at the World Beer Cup. Photo: Jim Shilander

County May Examine Future Transportation Needs in South San Clemente EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

SC Woman Shares Her Boston Marathon Experience, One Year After Bombings SPORTS/PAGE 17

www.sanclementetimes.com

Hobie Alter Remembered with Paddle-out Event SC SURF/PAGE 26

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, EVENTS, SPORTS AND MORE

SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING Planning Commission Opposses Casa Lawn Replacement Proposal

The courtyard of Casa Romantica in better days. The current patchiness of the grass and compaction of the soil forced Casa officers to propose adding temporary hardscape to the facility to provide a more attractive view.

The Planning Commission opposses the proposal. File photo

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week Future Transportation Projects Could Move Focus to South of City THE LATEST: With the extension of Avenida La Pata and the widening of Interstate 5 from San Juan Creek Road south to Avenida Pico coming in the next four years, the future of south Orange County’s transportation infrastructure may be next on the agenda.

San Clemente City Councilwoman Lori Donchak, a board member of the Orange County Transit Authority, told the council at its April 15 meeting that the board would soon consider a long-term transportation plan for south Orange County. This could include an extension of the high occupancy vehicle lane, currently slated to end at Avenida Pico, to the San Diego County line.

Donchak noted, however, that even with that widening, San Clemente could still be a traffic chokepoint for northbound traffic.

San Diego County’s transportation master plan calls for 12 lanes, including four toll lanes, to end at the county border by 2050.

WHAT’S NEXT: Donchak asked City Manager Pall Gudgeirsson to direct city staff to prepare a response to the plan, which she said should include a proposal for a reconstruction of the El Camino Real interchange if the freeway is widened. She also asked that all future maps remove any reference to the 241-extension project, which was withdrawn by Transportation San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

Corridor Agencies last week.

Councilman Chris Hamm suggested that the OCTA examine an extension of Avenida La Pata south to Cristianitos Road, though such a project would require partnership with Camp Pendleton, due to the area’s difficult topography.

— Jim Shilander

Pedestrian Struck on El Camino Real Dies THE LATEST: Ann Chang, 60, of San Clemente, died Thursday, April 17, as a result of injuries sustained last Tuesday, when she was struck by an SUV in the crosswalk of North El Camino Real and East Canada.

Chang was taken to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo following the accident Tuesday morning. She passed away at the hospital Thursday afternoon.

WHAT’S NEXT: Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Lt. Jeff Hallock said police are still performing a followup investigation into the incident, including interviewing additional witnesses. As of now, contrary to rumors, there is no indication that the driver of the vehicle was distracted by talking on the phone or texting, he said.

The case will likely still be presented to the District Attorney’s office at the conclusion of the investigation, Hallock said. That office will determine whether charges should be filed, he said.—JS

THE LATEST: Planning Commissioners came out unanimously against a proposal that would have replaced the grass in the Casa Romantica courtyard for five years with artificial turf due to concerns about changing the historic nature of the property Wednesday, April 16.

Casa Director Berenika Schmitz told the board that the current state of the grass was so poor that couples using the venue were being credited $1,000 to the cost of the weddings, and that she was regularly receiving poor comments about the courtyard from visitors. Garden director Jodie Cook said the issue was not so much the grass itself as much as the compaction of the soil there.

Schmitz said the goal of the nonprofit facility is to be sustainable, and that weddings are a large support for the facility.

Her goal has been to reduce the number of weddings and include more events open to the public, but that would still require additional lawn maintenance, she said.

WHAT’S NEXT: Commissioners said they were concerned about the number of events at the venue, which was designed to be a cultural center and gardens, as well as the overall state of the facility. Several commissioners suggested adopting similar turf to those used on greens at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course, as well as whether backing off on the number of events might help the grass after the failure of previous resodding efforts.

The commission did not make a formal vote, but asked staff to craft a resolution allowing them to reject the proposal at a later meeting.

FIND OUT MORE: For more on the story, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. — JS

Unleashed Dog Citations Up This Year

the city’s rules. She expected something similar could happen this year.

Resident Richard Phillips told the council he frequently encountered unleashed dogs on the city’s trails while running.

Cholodenko said the city enforces leash rules on the trails.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information on CASA, visit www.petprojectfoundation. org. — JS

Latest Hearing in Parking Fund Lawsuit Friday THE LATEST: A judge may determine Friday just how much money would have to be returned to residents, along with what residents might receive proceeds from the city’s Beach Parking Impact Fund as a result of the lawsuit won by attorneys for the Daniel Walker Trust in January.

Attorney Brad Malamud, the public face of the plaintiffs in the case, said Tuesday the hearing had been scheduled for last Friday but that Judge Thierry Colaw was ill. Colaw has not signed the order to return the money.

Malamud said in March, Colaw was unclear about exactly what method would be used to determine who might see funds returned to them. The judge’s order could also clarify whether any monies from the fund spent by the city will have to be returned, as well as how long the city would have to do so. Malamud argues the city should return funds spent after 2010, while the city is arguing for a later date.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city would also have 60 days from the signing of the order to determine whether it will appeal Colaw’s decision. Malamud said he welcomed the opportunity to potentially set precedent for other cities if the case went to a higher court. The City Council had set a summer 2014 deadline to spend funds or return them, though that decision was made before Colaw’s January ruling. — JS

THE LATEST: The number of citations being written for unleashed dogs in city parks is up this year, following the council’s decision to open up more of the city’s parks to animals on leashes, Coastal Animal Service Authority Director Kim Cholodenko told the San Clemente City Council last week.

WHAT’S NEXT: Cholodenko said the organization had seen a similar increase in 2013, when the council opened up a smaller portion of the city’s parks as a pilot project. However, as the year moved along, the numbers began to decrease, she said, as residents learned more about Page 3

Brad Malamud, the lead attorney for the plantiff in the beach parking fund lawsuit, says he welcomes the opportunity to argue the case in front of a higher court. Photo: Jim Shilander

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about? Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Shorecliffs Golf Club general manager Joe Leicht is one of 15 declared candidates for governor who’ll be up for election in the primary election June 3. Photo by Jim Shilander

San Clemente Resident Launches Longshot Bid for Governor Shorecliffs general manager Joe Leicht says campaign, election process is a learning experience

budget crisis.”

“I just said, see the previous question,” oe Leicht says he doesn’t expect to Leicht said. “It’s been a great learning come out on top of California’s guberexperience.” natorial primary on Tuesday, June 3.

For example, Leicht said he’d been Not with a sitting governor running and asked about his opinion of dog breedmajor parties spending big money to elect specific legislation, such as bans on pit their candidates. But the general manager bulls, which he had never heard of before, of Shorecliffs Golf Club says he hopes that or “unschooling,” a philosophy that rejects he can provide an alternative for those, traditional educalike himself, looking tion. for a true middle-ofLeicht has mainthe-road candidate.

A lot of people are tained a 60-hour “Jerry Brown’s per week schedule probably going to dissatisfied and a lot of the at the golf course, be re-elected, and the Republicans minor parties don’t resonate keeping up his campaign through social don’t have anyone media and videos worthwhile,” Leicht for me or any of my friends.

YouTube and his said. “Our choices It’s difficult for middle-of-the on campaign website, are very poor, in www.joeforgov.org. my opinion. A lot of road or normal people like Still, he said, even people are dissatisme.

– Joe Leicht that has taken on fied and a lot of the more time, whether minor parties don’t it be through resonate for me or meeting with newspaper editorial boards any of my friends. It’s difficult for middleor simply reading up about issues. He’s of-the road or normal people like me.” also tried to keep the two as separate as Leicht said he is running as an indepenpossible, he said, trying not to “campaign” dent in part because he feels it is too easy with club members. to pigeonhole people with their own party With 15 declared candidates, including identification. He says he’s identified 10 four other independent candidates, Leicht key issues and what he sees as “common said he’s realistic about his chances in sense approaches” to things like crime California’s “jungle primary” which sets and punishment, alternative energy and the two highest finishers against one the state’s budget. another. But he also isn’t ruling anything This common sense approach, he said, out, which is why he’s keeping his camincludes providing a new look at issues paign going. that bedevil the state. He noted that one “Maybe lightning strikes and a video newspaper’s candidate survey began goes viral,” Leicht said. “Maybe people with a question about what to do with the start saying, ‘This guy actually makes a lot state’s budget surplus. The second was of sense.’” SC about how to solve the state’s “looming

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Finding Strength through Support

Locals help veterans through counseling, service

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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ark Carlisle stands at the water’s edge sending out encouraging words and pointers on turn techniques and safety to first-time stand-up paddleboarders. The longtime Dana Point resident does this for a living.

As a personal trainer, SUP instructor, life-long surfer and employee of Hobie, one could say Carlisle’s life revolves around the water. It is where he’s made his career. Saturday, it was where he shared his story with some of the nation’s veterans, and their families, who were introduced to the sport for the first time.

Tragedy struck when Carlisle was 26.

His mother was diagnosed with stage-four, invasive breast cancer just six months after Mark’s father took his life. She would die two years later. When the reality caught up with him, Carlisle was riddled with anxiety, fear and depression. He’s not trying to put himself in the combat boots of veterans, but said he can relate to traumatic experiences on a smaller scale.

“As bad as things are that you’ve been through in life, somehow you must put the gears in motion and keep moving forward,” Carlisle said. “It doesn’t make it go away, but if you stay there you freeze and never move again.”

It’s a message Carlisle hoped to share with veterans and active duty members of the military who took part in a standup paddleboard clinic at Baby Beach this weekend. The day was sponsored

by Strength in Support, a nonprofit that came together after area mental healthcare providers saw a large need among their patients for affordable services, not just for servicemen and women but their families as well.

Three of the organization’s six board members work in mental health. As phone calls regarding counseling for military personnel and their families grew, a cost issue became apparent. The more than $100 sessions with private practitioners didn’t make sense, so they started offering pro bono sessions.

Strength in Support co-founder Jill Boultinghouse, a family therapist, recalled board president and founder Evan Fewsmith saying “enough” in 2012. There would be no more pulling military members into their private practices, rather they needed to help on a larger scale, and so the nonprofit was born.

The organization now provides free and low-cost counseling services to all current and veteran military personnel seeking help. Family members, also, are encour-

Military veterans and their families took part in a stand-up paddleboard clinic Saturday at Baby Beach sponsored by the nonprofit Strength in Support. Here, veterans stop for a photo with SUP instructors, Mark Carlisle (second from right) and Josh Golden (second from left) after a successful session. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

aged to seek aid from the nonprofit.

Rickey Cole, a retired sergeant first class, who served in the U.S. Army for 20 years, said deployments are often worse for family members who are shrouded in misinformation and fear. With limited communications between service members and their families, Cole said worrying is the worst part.

“You have to have a good support chain when you deploy … it is not just you who is deploying, but your family is back there wondering if you are alive or if something bad has happened,” Cole said.

Saturday, Strength in Support aimed to introduce service members and their families to a new experience, one they could all share in, one that was now accessible. With Carlisle’s and volunteer Josh Golden’s guidance, Marine Charlz Caldwell, his wife and three children, ages 12, 7 and 4, took to the water.

Ensuring active-duty Marines have the medical and healthcare services they need, Caldwell said he understands the good therapeutic activities can do.

To find out more about Strength in Support, visit www.strengthinsupport.org. SC

EYE ON SC

Brewing Something New Micro-Brew Fest celebrates an emerging industry in San Clemente STORY AND PHOTOS BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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t may have meant some early struggles, but it seems that craft beer has become more than just a fad in San Clemente.

This weekend will mark the fourth edition of the San Clemente Micro-Brew Fest— a celebration of smaller breweries from around the area. Tommy Hadjis, the general manager for San Clemente-based Left Coast Brewing and Brew-Fest founder, said there was support at the start for the event from his fellow brewers. The brewers have expanded too. This year, 16 mostly from Orange County, will showcase their libations. The crowds have steadily grown as well.

The first event drew about 500 people, Hadjis said. A year later, it grew by 50 percent, to about 750. Last year, 900 tickets were sold. Now, he says, he’s considering whether or not to move the event from the Left Coast parking lot to accommodate greater demand in a larger venue.

“When I first came to Left Coast, I knew I wanted to put on a beer festival,” Hadjis said. “It took a long time to get it going, and then I really wasn’t sure how the community would take it. But it keeps growing. This year, we’ll sell out.”

The biggest concerns are practical, he said. Last year, the festival ran out of cups. But Hadjis’ biggest concern, of course, is running out of beer. Pre-sale tickets typically provide a good indicator, he said.

“Once I pre-sell all my tickets, I know the next year we’ll have to move,” he said. “If we’re turning away hundreds of people, then we know we’ll have to move it off-site.”

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE? Pizza Port brewer Ryan Fields says people should understand that craft and home brewing are actually very similar.

The former, he said, is really only the latter on a larger scale.

“The main difference is only the type of equipment we use, but home brewers can make the same quality of beer,” Fields said.

What separates craft from large-scale brews, Fields said, was the effort to reach out and try new things with beer’s traditional ingredients—water, hops, malted barley (or other grain) and yeast—or something new.

“It’s about trying to find ways to use new ingredients or to find ways to use the four ingredients in a new way,” Fields said.

“You can use different varieties of hops, different grains or strains of yeast. Then it’s about blending these things together.”

TAKING TIME TO GET NOTICED Left Coast initially moved to San Clemente in 2004, at a time when, Hadjis said, there were very few independent brewers in Orange County. A movement was just springing up, however, in San Diego. Left Coast’s operations here started as a way to create beers for Oggi’s Pizza, whose locations are mostly in San Diego and Orange counties.

“As we saw it getting more popular in San Diego, we said, ‘We make great beer here, why not take advantage and make beer on our own label instead of just for our restaurants.’”

That was 2008. At that time, Left Coast and Pizza Port were helping to lead a charge in south Orange County for smaller, more artisanal brews. A year later, there were enough to create a county-wide Brewers Guild. The last two years it’s

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

exploded, with more breweries opening in Orange and Los Angeles counties, to go along with an already large presence in San Diego County, Hadjis said.

“Orange County has been fortunate because the breweries that have been opening up have been making very good beer,” he said. “It hasn’t been the same everywhere else. A lot of people don’t realize that if you’re not going to make good beer, you’re not going to last.”

Fields said the craft brew community is a tight-knit one that supports one another.

He believes the demand for higher quality among consumers will only increase.

“It’s definitely going to keep going,” Fields said. “There are a lot of people who are only now getting into craft beer. We’re just trying to get it out there. But the more people making beer the better. We all want to help get people over to the craft beer side.”

Hadjis said it wasn’t—and often still isn’t—easy to get smaller brewers beers on tap at restaurants.

“We need more bars that are craft beer bars, where you go in and there are 30 tap handles and it’s all craft,” Hadjis said.

“You still see a lot of restaurants around here fighting it. Everyone’s slowly coming around, some of these old-school owners, but it takes a lot of education.”

Many restaurant owners fear, or feared, that customers would not purchase unfamiliar beer. Owners who’ve been successful for decades selling national brands alone, he said, often don’t recognize putting such brews on tap can be a business opportunity unless they see fewer people coming into the restaurant, he said.

“You’re missing out on a whole demographic of customers,” Hadjis said. “It took us years to get one restaurant to put our beer on tap. They didn’t care if we won

Clockwise from the top: Left Coast Brewing has tried to be bring San Clemente to some of the 20 states it ships beer to. Names like “Del Mar” and “Trestles” are meant to evoke the feelings of surf and being on the beach. Left Coast’s offerings include the barrel-aged “Voo Doo” stout. Left Coast General Manager Tommy Hadjis in one of the company’s cold rooms, where its stores beer it is preparing to ship.

all these awards. They were too scared to put a craft beer on tap that no one knew of, even though we were local.”

Pizza Port being located downtown and making their own award winning beer was a big part of the drive toward the acceptance of craft beer locally, Hadjis said, as was the decision by Board & Brew and Sunset’s on the Pier to put the company’s beer on tap.

“They put it on and everyone was just loving it and bars were noticing it,” Hadjis said. “Everybody started bringing it on, and now it’s a surprise when I go to a place and it’s not on tap.”

EMBRACING LOCAL FLAVOR Some of Left Coast’s beers bear the name of San Clemente landmarks, like the Trestles India Pale Ale and Del Mar Street brews.

“We send our beer to over 20 states, and when we send it out we want customers to feel like we’re representing San Clemente,” Hadjis said. “I want them to have that beachy experience where they wish they were here.”

San Clemente’s also been lucky, he said, because the beer departments of local grocery stores have also made the decision to stock craft beer, including Left Coast.

“I feel like San Clemente’s ahead of other cities in Orange County. We’re ahead of Dana Point, we’re ahead of Mission Viejo,” Hadjis said.

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The company also opened up a tasting room last year. Previously, the company only had the ability to showcase its beers on-site at the festival. Now, the tastingroom has 12 beers on tap, including a number that are not available outside the brewery.

“It’s really helped us,” Hadjis said. “We decided we wanted to make it feel like San Clemente, do it the best we can and let the beer speak for itself.”

Professionals are recognizing their efforts as well. Earlier this month Left Coast won a silver medal at the World Beer Cup in Denver for its Barrel Age Scottish Ale. Pizza Port has also won a number of awards for its craft beer. SC MICRO-BREW FEST DETAILS Tickets for the event, which runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., are $35 at the door. A special VIP opening an hour early is another $10 and includes a tour of the brewing facilities. Pre-event tickets are available for $30 until Friday at www. scchamber.com. The proceeds benefit chamber activities, including welcome home celebrations for Marines. Food will be available for purchase and live bands, including Aloha Radio, the Kalama Brothers and Hempstring Orchestra will perform. The festival takes place at Left Coast Brewing, located at 1245 Puerta Del Sol. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY CATHERINE MANSO

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Monday, April 21 DISTURBANCE Calle Emilia, 1200 Block (1:44 p.m.) Officials were notified of children loudly riding their skateboards and plastic battery-operated cars.

CITIZEN ASSIST Center Tierra Cielo, 200 Block (11:18 a.m.) A caller reported a beehive on city property. The caller wanted the hive removed because he said a bee stung a child.

Sunday, April 20 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Navarro, 100 Block (10:55 p.m.)

A man was yelling for help.

PROWLER Avenida Ramona, 100 Block (10:47 p.m.) The caller’s 17-year-old daughter was hearing footsteps. Sheriff’s deputies were asked to speak to the young woman.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 3700 Block (8:23 p.m.)

A caller believed people were dealing drugs in the parking lot of Comfort Suites.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Avenida Presidio, 100 Block (7:36 p.m.) A caller reported a stolen surfboard.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE La Paloma, 200 Block (6:48 p.m.) A drunken woman in her late 40s was screaming profanities in the parking lot.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Cordillera/Calle Amanecer (2:20 p.m.) A caller said three individuals were “drinking or doing drugs” in an SUV at the end of a cul-de-sac. The caller claimed that one in the group was shirtless and screaming in the street.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Salvador, 900 Block (1:05 a.m.) Two cherry bombs, or small fireworks, were thrown at a residence. A suspect was seen running to a “modified Asian racing car,” that was last seen driving uphill and away from the scene.

Saturday, April 19 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Calle Amigo, 400 Block (10:04 p.m.) Three or four people in a gold vehicle were overheard discussing “smoking marijuana, doing heroin and coke.”

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 400 Block

Friday, April 18 PATROL CHECK Camino De Los Mares/ Camino Vera Cruz (6:36 p.m.) Juveniles reportedly threw water balloons at passing cars.

DRUNK DRIVING North El Camino Real/Avenida Palizada (6:03 p.m.) A brown Honda Accord was driving quickly and hitting other cars. The man driving the Accord reportedly stopped multiple times in the middle of the street and smacked himself.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE Calle Escuela, 300 Block (9:56 a.m.) A caller reported a parked, black BMW becasue there was a pillow and blanket inside the car.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Pelayo, 200 Block (6:08 a.m.) Dispatch received notice of someone changing a resident’s garage door lock. The resident claimed it wasn’t his landlord.

This year, the Splash Bash is open to the public and the silent auction will be open a week early with online bidding for those who cannot attend. Tickets are $100 per person, and include drinks, dinner and live entertainment.

For more information, visit www.splashfoundation.com.

COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER

Water District Scholarship Deadline is May 1

San Clemente Times April 24–30, 2014

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino De Estrella, 500 Block (2:36 p.m.)

A patrol check was requested for behind the closed K-Mart. Three juveniles were skateboarding and throwing pallets.

DISTURBANCE Via Merluza, 600 Block (1:45 a.m.) Authorities were notified of people in a Jacuzzi who were being too loud.

NEWS BITES

Each year, South Coast Water District awards $500 scholarships to college-bound high school seniors who live within their service area. The deadline to submit applications this year is Thursday, May 1. Since the program began in 2001, the district has awarded 54 college scholarships to graduating seniors at eight area high schools.

Applicants must demonstrate their involvement in community service, public service, volunteer work and/or environmental activities. They must also write a 500-word essay on water conservation or water care. Winners’ essays will be posted on the district’s website.

Applications can be printed from the website or completed online at www.scwd. org/community/scholarships.asp. Four of last year’s 11 scholarship recipients were from San Clemente High School.

To verify the district’s service area for eligibility purposes, contact at 949.499.4555 ext. 3153.

(6:03 p.m.) A man with a red beard who was wearing green pants and a black tank top was screaming at pedestrians.

Milk Processor Board Participating in Food Drive

Last year’s Splash Bash raised $47,000 to help support Concordia Elementary. Courtesy photo

Concordia Elementary Foundation Fundraiser Open to Public Concordia Elementary School’s Splash Foundation’s Second Annual Splash Bash will be held Friday, May 2. The party will feature Humble Circus, a band made up of Concordia Elementary dads, an open bar from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and dinner from Guicho’s. There will be a silent auction where partygoers will have the chance to bid on everything from a helicopter ride to summer camps for kids with all funds will going back to the Splash Foundation.

Last year’s event raised $47,000, which enabled the Foundation to purchase 40 iPads and a charging cart, event chairwoman Erini Redmond said.

The San Clemente-based California Milk Processor Board is encouraging residents to participate in its Great American Milk Drive event, which raises funds for food banks throughout the state.

Statistics from the board indicate the average food bank can provide only about one gallon of milk to any one client per year. Those wishing to participate can go to the website, www.gotmilk.com, or text message “Milk” to 27722. Proceeds will pay for milk for families that do not have regular access to it.

Funds will be converted into vouchers that go to local food banks and into the hands of families in need.

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

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Community Meetings SATURDAY, APRIL 26

Earth Day San Clemente 10 a.m.-

2 p.m. Demonstrations, displays, live entertainment, children’s crafts area and giveaways at Parque Del Mar will celebrate Earth Day. Beach cleanup at the San Clemente Pier begins at 8:30 a.m. Visit, www.scwatersheds.com for more information.

MONDAY, APRIL 28

Investment Advisory Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m. 100 Avenida Pre-

sidio, Ocean View Conference Room. www.san-clemente.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30

Oversight Board to Successor Agency to RDA Agency Meeting 3 p.m. Special

Meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio. City Hall Council Chambers. Agenda can be found at www.san-clemente.org.

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

DANA POINT Short-term vacation rental owners in Dana Point’s Niguel Beach Terrace were given an extension last week to comply with city ordinances on rentals of less than 30 days.

In a 4-to-1 vote, the City Council extended a May 1 enforcement deadline, giving the neighborhood a chance to amend rules to allow vacation rentals. Niguel Beach Terrace now has until Aug. 1. After years of debating the legality of short-term rentals the ordinance was adopted last spring. The city now allows short-term rentals but requires rentals be inspected, permitted and subject to a 10-percent bed tax. The extension requires that Niguel Beach Terrace rental owners apply for a temporary permit by April 30. The $150 fee and inspection will apply.

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO The San Juan Capistrano City Council on Tuesday, April 8 unanimously approved raising the maximum amount of money individuals can donate to a candidate’s campaign during city elections. The new ordinance raises the limit from $250 to $500, primarily to account for inflation. The city’s limit had not been adjusted since 1992. City Attorney Hans Van Ligten said the city’s $250 limit was comparable to Orange County cities with population sizes five to ten times larger and significantly lower than similarlysized cities, such as Dana Point and Laguna Beach. The new ordinance also includes a provision that the council review and adjust the limit for inflation every two years. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Lew’s Views by Lew Avera

Mean-Spiritedness Does Not Change Facts Despite naysayers, Talega’s residents are truly a part of San Clemente

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n a previous “View” I offered some perspectives on “Who is San Clemente?” This focused on population segments and defined San Clemente in terms of these groups. I identified some 15 segments and actually used five of them to describe San Clemente. Three of the ones I used were historical preservationists, residents west of Interstate 5 and the ranchlands. The ranchlands, of course, included Forster Ranch and Talega.

Significant in my description was the fact that each segment was different in many ways. However, I also recognized that there was much overlap among them all. In the final analysis, we were more the same than we were different, and that “the more we seemed to differ, the more we were the same” in terms of our love and respect for San Clemente.

Going back some 14 years and continuing forward for many years, as Talega began to develop and rapidly grow, there was a lot of negative and mean spirited publicity directed personally at the “new” citizens of San Clemente. In fact, it was so intense that many would never accept the fact that residents of Talega were citizens of San Clemente. Over the years, this negative public sentiment seemed to diminish, I think, as residents have become integrated into and become a meaningful part of our wonderful city.

It has been brought to my attention

that more recently this negative and mean spirited feeling on the part of some has resurfaced on Facebook pages and the website of the San Clemente Times.

Several examples are in LEW’S VIEWS the comment section on

By Lew Avera a posting about the new La Pata extension construction, reading “Boo Hiss. Welcome to San Talega.” A negative comment with regard to the Outlets at San Clemente reads, “Strictly for Talega.” With regard to beach parking, another says, “It isn’t right that beach residents are swarmed by Talegaians every sunny day of the year.” And finally, the worst comment of all … “You want to live in a sterile environment? Move to Talega with the rest of the yuppie scum.”

It is very unfortunate that this attitude remains with some. I have to believe that it has diminished over the years and that the above represents only a very few of our citizens. I think I speak for 99.99 percent of the thousands of residents of Talega when I say that we love and respect San Clemente and how special it is to us in every way. When we moved here we weren’t moving to Talega. We were moving to a special place called San Clemente. While Talega residents have many priorities, including employment, families, schools, personal growth, recre-

ation, volunteering, service to others, etc., we have our unique geographic environment. We are still an integral part of San Clemente. We are dedicated citizens of San Clemente. We respect, without challenge or question, the unique character of our special Spanish Village by the Sea. When we have visitors we are proud to bring them to our traditional city— Avenida Del Mar, the Pier, the beautiful beaches, our unique buildings, our parks and recreation facilities. We are also proud we contribute to the sustainment and growth of San Clemente through our local economic activity via spending and taxes.

So, the bottom line is we would ask all of the citizens of San Clemente to accept the residents of Talega as vital and dedicated citizens of San Clemente.

Lew Avera is a retired career officer, Lt. Col., U.S. Marine Corps. He was a resident of San Clemente in 1963-1965 while serving at Camp San Mateo. He returned to San Clemente in 2001 when he retired from PricewaterhouseCoopers as a senior managing director. He has been a director of the Talega HOA since 2003 and served on the San Clemente Planning Commission from 2005 to 2013. 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

BRIAN MERTZ, San Clemente

Here we (don’t) go again.

How many frustrating, wasteful, fumespewing traffic nightmares will it take before we develop an Interstate 5 alternative that is so crucial to our quality of life in San Clemente?

A wreck near Camp Pendleton stops traffic for hours. A fatal truck crash spills lumber across all lanes in the middle of town. Then two motorcycles tangle in San Juan Capistrano and it happens again.

Each time, El Camino Real is clogged with cars seeking a way around and ubiquitous GPS guides hordes of drivers through our narrow residential streets.

It’s way past time for state and regional traffic planners, myopic environmentalists and, crucially, the U.S. Marine Corps, to San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

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stop defending their narrow turf and cooperate to solve a recurring problem that can only continue to get worse.

In the meantime, maybe downtown businesses and the outlet mall could profit by posting new freeway signs advertising good places to wait out the inevitable jams.

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

San Clemente Housing Programs Planner Denise Obrero, as well as board members of iHOPE, will be on hand to discuss a potential homeless shelter in San Clemente. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted

by SC Times editor Jim Shilander. All are welcome. Beachside Chat is held every Friday at Café Calypso.

CITY AND COUNTY CAN SHARE THE BLAME FOR LIBRARY DELAY CARLA LALLEY, San Clemente

The San Clemente City Council is not happy about the higher cost for the library expansion project and is frustrated with the almost three years of delay. The city wants to blame Orange County for holding up the project but there is sufficient blame to go around.

Yes, the county wasted many months with a project manager who did nothing to move this project forward. However, if this

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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Kevin Dahlgren, Catherine Manso, Shelley Murphy, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 17. The SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

FOLLOW THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES project had been ready to start within six months of the senior center vacating the space in 2011, we wouldn’t be paying the additional $326,000 and the project would have been completed by now.

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SOAPBOX Having participated in the expansion meetings, I have seen the contentious nature of our city representatives toward the county representatives and this has proven most unproductive.

If the City Council thinks that having a city-owned library is the answer, I hope they look at what that really means to the people that frequent the library. As a county library, the patrons can now request a book from any branch and have it delivered to this library for a very nominal fee of 25 cents. If our library becomes city owned this will no longer be the case. We will only be able to check out materials that this library owns.

Maybe the answer to benefit our library, based on the city’s monetary contribution to the county system, is to negotiate more services for our branch rather than pull out of the county library system. We are fortunate to live in a community that has the funds to support a great library but not every community does. If you believe in the importance of books and having

them available to everyone, shouldn’t we be willing to contribute to those communities as well?

MANY 241 OPPONENTS DO NOT HAVE SKIN IN THE GAME GEORGE BRODY, San Clemente

A couple of weeks ago the Transportation Corridor Agencies, after two decades of trying, finally capitulated on trying to get approval for the extension of the 241 toll road. As it was reported in the SC Times, Stefanie Sekich-Quinn from the Surfrider Foundation was very happy about her participation in defeating the TCA effort.

So, we, the residents of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, and towns further north, should thank Stefanie for condemning us to become prisoners in our homes on weekends. The already heavy traffic in both directions of Interstate 5 becomes really congested on Saturdays and Sundays. For example, a

trip from San Clemente to San Diego may easily take two hours or more if there is a traffic accident. We all remember the accident last month when vehicles in both directions were trapped on I-5 for more than four hours. I presume Stefanie was not involved in that.

In fact I wonder if Stefanie ever uses the I-5 in our area. Does she even live here?

Several years ago, the TCA made several open-forum presentations explaining to the public what the plans were and the reasons for needing the extension connecting the 241 to the I-5 south of San Clemente. It would not increase the traffic in the surfing beach areas. It would not have interfered with any surfing activities.

In fact it was going to provide collection basins that would prevent dirty water from washing into the ocean. Only clean water would go into the ocean.

At one of those meetings, the Surfrider Foundation and the Audobon Society, who was concerned about interfering with the pocket mouse in the area, bussed a large

number of their members all the way from New Mexico and Arizona to protest against the TCA. And protest they did— vocally and rowdily. They interrupted with whistles and cat-calls those speakers who wanted to present viewpoints in favor of the 241 extension. They would not let them talk. For their participation they got T-shirts saying “Save Trestles.”

After this disappointing meeting, I approached a couple of young men wearing these T-shirts and asked them why they thought the 241 extension would harm Trestles. They replied, “What is Trestles?”

Stefanie: You are cordially invited to participate in one of our I-5 traffic jams and to enjoy the problem you helped to create.

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.

GUEST OPINION: By Robert Crittendon

Making the Best of a Bad Situation

Local charity seeks to soften impact of government cuts for military families

W

hen San Clemente Military Family Outreach heard the first rumblings about legislated service reductions of for military families, they vowed to do whatever they could to mitigate the effect in their north Camp Pendleton service area.

“We are limited in what we can do,” SCMFO Board Chairwoman Kathleen Morea said, “but we will continue to serve as a financial safety net for those deserving families facing emergency situations.”

For the past 10 years, the local charity and its predecessor, Friends of San Onofre Marines, have given thousands of dollars in financial and material aid to struggling families for food, diapers, infant formula, school supplies, gas, car repairs and other unexpected emergencies. In addition, they have provided yearly morale events, 1,000 turkeys at Thanksgiving and the “Thank a Family” assistance program at Christmas.

“Our umbrella of services will remain much the same, but the number of families in need could escalate,” Morea said.

News from Washington sends a dark picture for a target group that already numbers about 10 percent of households below the U.S. poverty line. Proposals include reducing insurance coverage for active duty family members, cutting commissary savings, increasing family housing costs and capping wages below private sector wage increases.

“Comparing salaries to equivalent civilian counterparts is asinine,” columnist Jenny Sokol wrote in the Orange County

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

San Clemente charities raise spirits of military families with everything from baby showers to giveaway of turkeys at Thanksgiving and gifts at Christmas. Photo: Robert Crittendon

Register last year. “Unless the civilian counterpart embarks on a ship or is sent to the desert for 270 days in a row, there is no such thing as a civilian counterpart.”

Our nearest neighbors, families in San Onofre housing, began feeling the effects early. The San Onofre Community Center, a social hub for family services in north Camp Pendleton, was redirected to administrative and training duties and commissaries closed their doors last summer on furlough days.

Seeing the approaching austerity measures and anticipating their effect upon families, Military Family Outreach began heightening fundraising activity and preparing for whatever comes down the road.

SCMFO supporters have also responded

with increased fundraising efforts of all kinds—from church-sponsored dinners and restaurant fundraisers to Marine motorcycle rallies. Azrael’s Marine Motorcycle Club, whose very successful event last summer brought 333 riders together and funneled all proceeds to SCMFO, is planning another for this August.

The outreach has two projects of its own—a July mail campaign and a blockbuster seventh annual Fall Variety Show, which will be one of the largest entertainment presentations to ever grace the San Clemente Community Center stage. The October 25 music and comedy offering will highlight both amateur and top professional talent, including The Beatles cover

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band Paperback Writer. Tickets will go on sale to the general public in September and information will be posted at www.militaryfamilyoutreach.com.

While the full effects of sequestration and Department of Defense 2015 budget pressures are yet to be finalized, military families in north Camp Pendleton, and the local charities who support them, are girding for the worst. Whether it be reduction of family services, medical care, recreational activities or housing availability and maintenance, the challenges are being addressed by the combined front of resolute military families and compassionate civilian aid organizations.

Of graver concern to many of the families is the long term thinning of the military and its ultimate effect upon readiness of our forces in an increasingly hostile world.

One Marine wife at a recent event said military families will do their best, but the issue is much larger and affects all Americans.

San Clemente Military Family Outreach and other south Orange County charities say they are up to the challenge and will provide as much support as possible.

Bob Crittendon is a retired business executive and former USMC officer who has served as a volunteer for SC Military Family Outreach since 2008. The organization was formed in 2003. 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

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

At the Movies: Not Your Average ‘Joe’

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 24 LOS RIOS GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Help clean and maintain Los Rios Park in San Juan Capistrano with fellow green thumbs. Meets every Thursday, except rain days and holidays, in front of the Montanez Adobe. Bring gloves, clippers and an apron. Sign the volunteer form at www.goinnative.net.

SC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NETWORKING LUNCHEON 11:30 a.m. Sunsets at the Pier, Price is $15, to cover lunch. 610 Avenida Victoria.

San Clemente. www.scchamber.com.

TARYN DONATH 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

OCEAN WORLDS OF THE OUTER SOLAR SYSTEM 7 p.m. Learn from a NASA scientist how the exploration of Earth’s oceans are helping us to understand potential habitability of other planets and moons. Free for members, $15 for non-members. Registration and pre-payment required. Call or email rsvp@explorocean.org to register. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ExplorOcean, 600 East Bay Ave., Newport Beach, 949.675.8915, www.explorocean.org.

OVERCOMING ADHD 7 p.m. Free lecture on causes and treatments for ADHD from a neurology and nutritional perspective, hosted by chiropractor Burton Wagner. 30320 Rancho Viejo Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.616.5470.

THE KALAMA BROTHERS 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s.

555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

Friday | 25 STEVEN KENT WINERY TASTING 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tasting at San Clemente Wine Company. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar. 949.429.7067. www.scwinecompany.com.

CLIFFHANGER 8 p.m. Performance at the Cabrillo Playhouse. Tickets $20, $15 for students.

202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

Last year brought movie audiences one of the biggest acting comebacks in almost a decade, with Matthew McConaughey’s roles in Mud, Dallas Buyers Club and Wolf of Wall Street. This year may bring a comeback for another actor with questionable taste in movie choices: Nicolas Cage. Though not on the same career track as McConaughey, Cage headlines his own southern success this month with David Gordon Green’s Joe. The film also fittingly co-stars 17-year-old Tye Sheridan of Mud. In small-town Texas, an ex-con named Joe (Cage) makes a living poisoning weak trees to replace them with stronger ones when a teenager named Garry (Sheridan) asks if he and his dad (Gary Poulter) can work with his crew. Garry and his family are new to town, homeless and in need of money. Joe himself is looking for a fresh start. From there an unlikely friendship and mentorship is created between the anti-hero and boy.

Joe returns filmmaker Green to his indie drama roots after a five years of directing Hollywood comedies like the stoner hit Pineapple Express. Cage has made a reputation out of spending his mid-career headlining mediocre action flicks rather than dramas like Leaving Las Vegas, for which he won Best Actor. Joe succeeds at reminding viewers he still has a talent and presence to carry already good material when he wants to and also shows that Green hasn’t completely sold out. —Megan Bianco

DANA POINT SYMPHONY 7:30 p.m. The symphony orchestra presents Beethoven’s 5th Symphony and Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto. $20 for adults and $15 for students, seniors and members of the military. St. Edward’s Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point, www.danapointsymphony.com.

STEPPING OUT 8 p.m. Opening night performance at the Camino Real Playhouse of a comedy about working-class amateurs trying to overcome their inhibitions and left feet in a New York dance studio. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Saturday | 26 BUTTERFLY WALK 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Learn to identify common butterflies with members of the North American Butterfly Association at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Conservancy. Space is limited. RSVP online by April 25. $10 adults, $5 kids, free for supporters. Call for directions, 949.923.2210, www.rmvreserve.org.

EARTH DAY GO GREEN AND BLUE 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute to spread awareness and appreciation for Mother Nature. Create eco-friendly crafts and learn the importance of protecting natural habitats through hands-on activities.

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.com.

KELP FEST 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Join in the fun at Laguna Beach’s Main Beach to celebrate the healthy return of kelp forests off the coast.

Enjoy music, games, education exhibits and more to learn more about this Southern California habitat. 107 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, www.kelpfest.org.

ORCHARD DESIGN 1 p.m. Start the backyard orchard of your dreams. Understand the tools, techniques and basic strategies for designing a productive orchard. Tickets are $20 for members, $30 for non-members. Tickets available online. The Ecology Center, 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.

Sunday | 27 SERRA CHAPEL TOUR 11:15 a.m. Tour at the Mission in honor of Father Junipero Serra, who was born 300 years ago this year. Offered Sundays.

Admission $6-$9. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

EDITOR’S PICK

California Wine festival • aPril 26 1 p.m.–4 p.m. Taste hundreds of California wines, craft beers and appetizers while enjoying live Caribbean music overlooking the Dana Point Harbor. Must be 21 years or older. Tickets start at $59 with advanced purchase. $80 at the door. Percentage benefits the nonprofit Surfrider Foundation.

Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Road. www.californiawinefestival.com.

Photo: Andrea Papagianis

CHARITY CONCERT 3:30 p.m. The San Clemente Community Handbell Choir, the handbell choir of St. Andrews by the Sea Methodist, Jubilee Bells of Our Savior’s Church and Blissful Bell of Our Savior’s Lutheran School perform a benefit concert for Family Assistance Ministries. The concert is free but all donations will go to FAM. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 200 Avenida San Pablo, San Clemente. www.schandbell.org.

Monday | 28 SADDLEBACK STUDENT ART EXHIBITION Noon. The Saddleback College Art Gallery presents its Juried Student Art Exhibition. Event features student work and runs through Thursday, May 15. Gallery hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday from noon to 4 p.m. and Thursday from noon to 8 p.m. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo, www.saddleback.edu.

Tuesday | 29 STEMULATING SCIENCE 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Casa Romantica Cultural Page 13

Center and Gardens presents fun and educational programs for kids 5-12, Tuesdays through June 3. Activities focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Admission $5. Call to register.

415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

COOKING CLASS 6:30 p.m. Featuring stuffed leg of lamb with goat cheese sun-dried tomatoes and basil. $50 per person. Antoine’s Café, 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

949.492.1763. www.antoinescafe.com.

Wednesday | 30 KARAOKE WITH LES AND JOEL 7 p.m. Every Wednesday at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Springtacular Sprint

Colorful Easter eggs covered the outfields at Vista Hermosa Sports Park as parents and children gather for the start of the Easter egg hunt Saturday.

San Clemente kids make mad dash for eggs

STORY AND PHOTOS BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

an Clemente’s annual Springtacular brought kids and parents by the thousands to meet the Easter Bunny, play games and, most importantly, grab as many Easter eggs as they could Saturday at Vista Hermosa Sports Park.

City Beaches, Parks and Recreation staff said an estimated 3,000 people attended the event, which included informational and game booths for various civic organizations and volunteer groups, as well as the annual Kiwanis Club pancake breakfast. Participants also got a chance to cool down afterward at the San Clemente Aquatic Center. SC

John, Lisa and Zachary Pritchard check on Zachary’s haul of eggs.

Assisteen Hanna Kahn works to create a design for Briana Caudillo.

Chloe Chafin checks out a Sheriff’s Department motorcycle.

John Gibson tosses a bean bag toward a bunny-shaped target.

Children race for eggs during the city’s annual Springtacular.

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

Shari Hopkinson and granddaughter Riley Romanowski take a break from the egg hunt.

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949 Volleyball

activities in science, geography, cooking and music. Develop well-rounded children as they watch the lifecycle of butterflies and ladybugs, garden and observe root systems form and take part in our remarkable Brain Building Lego Camp. 24292 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.443.1193, www.broderickmontessori.com.

949 Volleyball club offers 12 summer camps for boys and girls ages 8-18. Players are introduced to the fundamentals of the sport as well as high-level techniques. Camp is held in our own state-of-the-art facility in San Juan Capistrano, just off of Interstate 5. Each session is $165 for four days of training. Camp ends with a tournament for prizes, where players can implement what they have learned. For more information, see www.949vb.com or contact justin@949vb.com. Space is limited, so sign up today.

Camp Broadway Bound The No. 1 musical theater camp in south Orange County. With a new themed musical show every week, we combine acting skill- and self-esteembuilding games, crafts, music, dance and fun. Camp meets in July and August, Mon–Fri from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, with a big camp show every Friday night. Join us for one or two weeks or the entire summer. No experience necessary. Last summer we sold out before school let out, so reserve your spot today. Locations in San Clemente and Mission Viejo.

949.388.3846, www.broadwayboundoc.com.

Acting Academy for Kids Summer Performing Arts Camps serving ages 4-13. Campers are guided through a full theater immersion experience via four daily classes—music, art, acting and dance. The culminating event will be a Friday performance on the main stage at Camino Real Playhouse and the Cabrillo Playhouse. Children can participate for one week, the entire summer or anywhere in between. It’s time to watch your star shine. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 714.747.4915, www.actingacademyforkids.com.

AquaZot Swim Club The AquaZot Swim Club summer session is designed as a fun and structured program to develop swimming skills for 5- to 12-year-olds who are already water safe. Our experienced instructors employ the most recent aquatics methods to progress each student from basic to advanced stroke ability in all four competitive strokes. Mini swim meets will be held every two weeks as a fun way to judge each student’s progress.

714.470.3763, www.aquazot.org.

The Arts Project OC San Clemente’s one-stop shop for all things art! We offer classes in acting, voice, music and studio art for creative kid ages 3 and up. Your aspiring

Capo Beach Christian School Summer Quest

Photo: Camp Broadway Bound

musician can make music at The Sound Studio. The Art Studio explores mediums such as painting, drawing and mixed media. In the Black Box Studio, become a triple threat in singing, acting and dancing. For more information, including fees, schedules and registration, log on to www.theartsprojectoc.com or call 949.276.ARTS (2787).

Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley The Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley offers summer day camp programs at three different South Orange County locations, including San Juan Capistrano, Aliso Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita. Day Camp runs from June 30- Aug. 29. Day Camp is offered Monday through Friday. Members participate in fun hands-on activities and field trips. Members’ age ranges, cost and hours vary by location. For more information, call 949.240.7898 ext. *28.

Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area’s PLAY GREAT Summer offers more than 25 summer programs including athletics, arts and crafts, computers, games, field trips and special events at a low cost of $30 annually, or free to our members (small additional fee for field trips). The club is located at 1304 Calle Valle, San Clemente. Summer program runs June 20–Sept. 6. Hours are Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.–6 p.m. 949.492.0376, www.begreatsanclemente.org.

Broderick Montessori Broderick Montessori School is excited to announce a wonderful summer program for preschool, kindergarten and elementary children from June 30-Aug. 15. Give your child the Montessori academic edge while they explore

Summer Quest is a faithbased day-camp run by certified teachers with loving hearts. Each day brings hours of creative play, new friendships, character building and exciting adventures. With weekly beach days, pool days, park days and field trips to fun places like Knott’s Berry Farm, Legoland, county fairs and water parks.

You will never hear those dreaded words, “I’m bored.” The small teacher-to-child ratio ensures safety and quality care. Located in Capistrano Beach. 949.496.3513, www.capobeachchristianschool.org.

City of Laguna Niguel Be a Squirrel or Coyote in the Laguna Niguel’s Parks and Recreation summer day camp programs!

Campers explore Crown Valley Community Park and partake in activities such as handball, nature hikes, daily swimming, group games on pristine soccer fields, arts and crafts, construction toys, table games, camp songs, karaoke, Wii games and science exploration activities. Squirrels have weekly themed visitors, while Coyotes travel to the beach on Tuesdays and an amusement park on Thursdays. Register online at www.cityoflagunaniguel.org/recreation.

DanMan’s Music School Not your father’s band.

DanMan’s five-day intensive workshops let campers create and name their own rock bands and put on a real show for family and friends.

Instructions on guitar, piano, drums, bass and vocals are provided by inspiring professional music teachers. Exercises include creating set lists, making band posters and rehearsing for the big gig. Cost is $225 per camp. Bring in DanMan’s ad from this issue before June 30 and receive $25 off. The jamming begins July 7.

24699 Del Prado, Dana Point.

949.496.6556, www.danmans.com.

Dana West Yacht Club Sailing Camp DWYC is again offering their popular Sailing Camp to community kids ages 8 to 18. The camp is three two-week sessions that can be enrolled in separately,

consecutively, or in combination. The dates of the sessions are June 30 – July 11, July 14 – July 25 and July 28 – Aug. 8. The camp now includes larger boats for older kids. Check out our junior video at www.dwyc.org. Dana West Yacht Club, 24601 Dana Drive, Dana Point.

Endless Summer Surf Camp Celebrating its 22th anniversary, Endless Summer is the longest running surf camp in Orange County and caters to first-timers wanting to learn the basics of surfing and ocean safety as well as experienced surfers looking to improve their skills. Offering a new camp every Monday from June through September, the fun in the sun continues for 15 weeks

Photo: Endless Summer Surf Camp

at San Onofre State Beach. Day camps for kids 10 and older run Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. These camps are priced at $495 and include equipment, lessons, lunch, snacks, drinks and a T-shirt. Weeklong overnight camps are $895 and include accommodations, surf equipment, surf lessons, all meals, snacks,

drinks and a camp T-shirt. Also popular are our Surf & Turf surfing and golf camps, provided in cooperation with Talega Golf Course. Private lessons, group lessons and adult camps are also available. Sign up early. Camps sell out every summer!

Call 949.498.7862 to register. www.endlesssummersurfcamp.com

Photo: Nick Gates/Etnies Skatepark

Etnies Skatepark Etnies Skatepark offers the most dynamic weekly summer skateboarding camps in Orange County. Photography and videography camps are also available.

Campers each receive a camp shirt and have the opportunity to create their own skateboard deck. During break time, campers have full access to our video game lounge to keep each day exciting and fun-filled. Etnies Skatepark covers 62,000 square feet, making it the largest free public skatepark in America. For more information, call 949.916.5870 or visit www.etniesskatepark.com.

Fashion Camp Create.

Design. Sew. Fashion Camp is a creative learning space teaching the principles behind fashion design. We cover sketching, creating, designing and sewing. Our summer camps are geared toward beginners and perfect for those who have some experience too. Design Camps, Sewing Camps, Advanced Camps, Teen Camps and more. Ages 7-17. Half-day, full-day and weekend camps are offered. Early and late pickups are available too. 555 The Shops At Mission Viejo Road, Ste. 604A, Mission Viejo, 949.364.1856, www.createdesignsew.com.

Bold Girlz Fashionista Fun Camp Bold Girlz is the ultimate party place for girls, offering fashion-themed parties and weekly summer fashion camps for fun selfesteem building. Girls will learn runway modeling, decorate T-shirts, enjoy spa day, hair and makeup, glamour shots and more. The last day of camp features a runway fashion show for family and friends. Girl Scout community service workshops, Happy Girlz Finishing School and walk-in Mini-Glam services are also available. Located at the Kaleidoscope, 27741 Crown Valley Parkway in Mission Viejo. For more info, call 949.348.1300 or see www.boldgirlz.com.

Julie Foudy Soccer Camp The Julie Foudy Soccer Camp returns to Mission Viejo, July 15-18, for our 19th year! Our unique full-day camp is highlighted by U.S. National Team exercises, team building and leadership development from some of the most successful women soccer players and coaches in the game. New this summer, we’re excited to offer our College Prep program! Also, for the little ones, the Julie Foudy Happy Feet Program offers half-day fun for boys and girls ages 3-7. www.juliefoudysoccercamps.com.

Mathnasium Mathnasium can help you ramp up math skills this summer to set up for success in the coming school year. Our summer programs are designed to prevent summer learning loss and help students prepare for what lies ahead. All of our memberships offer a customized program with flexible scheduling—pick days and times that suit your schedule! In addition, four weekly Game Hours are available during the summer to both members and non-members.

888.962.6284, www.mathnasium.com.

Mission San Juan Capistrano Mission San Juan Capistrano is pleased to offer summer programs the entire family can enjoy, including weekly activities and summer camps. The weekly craft activities, for ages 6-12, will run from July 7 – Aug. 22. The summer camps include Ceramic Clay Camp, July 7-18 and July 21 – Aug. 1, and the popular Adventure Sleepover Night at the Mission, July 11-12. For more information on all the summer fun, call 949.234.1315 or see www.missionsjc.com.

OC Junior Guards OC Junior Guards is staffed and operated

by OC Lifeguards. Junior guard instructors are certified lifeguards who teach students critical ocean safety fundamentals through hands-on experience in a variety of life-

saving and waterman/woman activities. Get safe for summer. Ages 8-15. Location: Strand Beach, Dana Point. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Session 1: June 30–July 11 ($335); Session 2: July 14–Aug. 1 ($435); Session 3: Aug. 4– Aug. 22 ($435). Sign up at 949.443.0773, www.ocjuniorguards.com.

Ocean Institute Let your child explore the mysteries of the ocean world through our unique, hands-on marine science and maritime history summer camps. Campers can study marine wildlife in our labs, take a cruise aboard our research vessel Sea Explorer, or even step back in time to the life of a tallship sailor of the 1800s.

Camps are suitable for children and teens 5 to 17 years old and include weeklong day camps and overnight adventures. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

Our Lady of Fatima Falcon Summer Camp Falcon Fun Summer Camp in San Clemente is open to all children entering kindergarten through eighth grade. Camp hours are 8 a.m.-4 p.m., July 7 – Aug. 22. Campers will experience positive reinforcement from caring adults, the sharing of adventures with a group of friends and the chance to participate in fun-filled summer activities. Daily activities include blocks of time for themed science, crafts, games, technology, light academics, weekly beach days and field trips to places such as Disneyland and the Aquarium of the Pacific, plus special guest Fridays. For more information, see www.olfschool.net and click on Summer Camps tab or call 949.492.7320.

Photo: Ocean Institute

Princess Dance Camps & More San Clemente Dance Performing Arts Center is celebrating our 20th anniversary with fun and exciting summer camps and workshops! We offer a wide range of options for all ages from 3 to adult, for beginning to advanced dancers. Eight-week summer session and weeklong dance camps with themes like “Frozen” and “Tangled” will be offered. Try a Dance Camp featuring all styles.

Intensive Workshops are also available for serious dancers with California’s top teachers!

For more information, call 949.498.7571 or see www.sanclementedance.com.

The Shea Center Equestrian Camp

Photo: The Shea Center

The Shea Center’s integrated day camp for kids with and without special needs is a five-day introduction

to horseback riding, learning to appreciate and care for horses, and meeting and interacting with other kids. It is a comfortable, fun learning experience, taught by equestrian professionals who work with kids nearly every day. It is said, “No one knows and loves kids and horses more than The Shea Center equestrian staff.”

Space is limited. For more information call 949.240.8441, ext. 123.

SLAM Sports Just like last summer, Slam Sports carries an abundance of Junior Lifeguard suits and boardshorts, as well as the mandatory “Duckfeet” fins. This year, they have continued the “Duck Swap” exchange program which allows parents to swap out last year’s fins for credit toward fins to fit growing feet. Owners Dan and Dagmar are continually coming up with creative ways to help the environment as well as save people money—definitely a refreshing business approach. Thanks Slam! 69 Via Pico Plaza, 949.429.7948.

Photo: The Johnson Academy

The Speech, Language & Learning Center and The Johnson Academy The Speech, Language & Learning Center and The Johnson Academy use research-based programs and one-on-one therapy to encourage academic success.

Students will focus on strengthening the foundation for success in the areas of spelling, reading, math, language, comprehension, memory and critical thinking. Our summer program runs from June 16 through Aug. 22. Call us at 949.487.5251 to schedule your individual therapy, (recent evaluation required within the last six months). www.speechlanguageandlearningcenter.net

Photo: St. Anne School

St. Anne School The Summer Knights Day Camp at St. Anne School is the ideal combination of fun and education for preschool through eighth grade, with convenience and flexibility for parents. Camp days are filled with a balance of light academics, arts and crafts, water play, weekly themes, special guests, cooking and field trips. The nine-week camp starts June 16 with full-day, halfday and extended hours options. Join for one week or all nine! 32451 Bear Brand Road, Laguna Niguel, 949.276.6711 or www.st-anne.org.

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School Open to all students, camps for preschool through grade 12.

Create, build, fabricate, invent, explore in STEM, arts and outdoor camps at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School this summer. St. Margaret’s Summer Exploration is a world of hands-on, mindblowing and fun opportunities for students of all ages. Exclusive partnerships with i2 Camp and the UCI School of Engineering. For more information, visit www.smes.org/summer. 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108, www.smes.org.

Photo: St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Photo: Tstreet Volleyball Club

Summer Soul Surf Camp Volcom presents the Summer Soul Surf Camp, located in San Clemente at San Onofre Surf Beach. Weeklong day and overnight camp programs for boys and girls ages 9–16. CPR and first aid certified instructors are experienced surfers committed to being role models both in and out of the water. Spend your summer surfing during morning and afternoon sessions. Learn to play the ukulele and eat s’mores by the campfire with friends. 800.522.1352, www.summersoulsurfcamp.com.

Tstreet Volleyball Club Tstreet Volleyball Club trains over 350 athletes between the ages of 9 and 18 and is recognized as one of the top clubs in the country. Conveniently located in the Spectrum district of Irvine, Tstreet offers a full range of position-specific general skills and clinics throughout the summer. All participants, whether beginning or advanced, are placed in a serious learning environment. Experienced coaches, following in the footsteps of founder Olympic gold medalist Troy Tanner, teach proper volleyball mechanics in competitive fun drills. 949.305.8083, www.tstreetvolleyball.com.

Westwind Sailing

Westwind Sailing has been providing boating education in an atmosphere that’s safe, fun and encourages personal success since 1987. Summer fun at Westwind includes sailing classes, paddling classes and day camps for all ages and skill levels. Programs are sanctioned by US Sailing and Community Sailing, and are US Sailing, USCG, ASI, ACA, CPR and first aid certified. Camps and classes meet at OC Sailing & Events Center, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Point Harbor, 949.492.3035, www.westwindsailing.com.

YMCA Summer Camps Reach high, play hard.

Summer Camp at the YMCA is a fun, actionpacked adventure filled with sports and outdoor activities, field trips and specialty clubs! We offer licensed full- or part-time programs, weekly/ monthly rates, inclusion support for special needs, character development, service learning projects and clubs such as cooking, art, sports and more.

Camp runs June 30 through Aug. 29, 6:45 a.m.-6 p.m. Find out more at www.ymcaoc.org/sdc.

SC LIVING

Cross-Country Success for Wounded Veteran Double-amputee Rob Jones gets hero’s welcome at Pendleton, throws first pitch at Petco Park

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

R

ob Jones and Ray Clark met at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Ma. Jones, a young sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserves, had returned from Afghanistan, wounded and entering recovery. At 24, Jones was injured by the weapons of warfare he had been tasked to look for: improvised explosive devices.

Jones, of Lovettsville, Va., was seriously injured. Photographs taken after the incident show a battered Marine. Badly wounded, Jones’ legs were amputated above the knee.

Through it all, Rob maintained his spirit, his father Lenny recalled Saturday morning as Jones embarked on the last miles of his cross-country journey, a fundraising tribute to injured servicemen and women.

“He got us all through this,” Lenny Jones said, holding back tears.

Jones and Clark met through the organization Ride 2 Recovery, which Clark serves as program coordinator for at Walter Reed. The Calabasas-based nonprofit has assisted more than 10,000 wounded veterans build their strength through cycling. In recovery, Jones set his sights on conquering a challenge. He was determined to once again ride a bike—no hand cycles or recumbent bikes, Jones wanted a traditional, upright bike.

Ride 2 Recovery founder John Wordin shared Jones’ story Saturday amidst a room of Rob’s supporters, including local leaders and nonprofits, family members

U.S. Marine Corps veteran and double amputee Rob Jones shares a moment with the man who taught him how to ride again, Ray Clark. Jones finished a cross-country bike ride from Maine to Camp Pendleton Saturday morning accompanied by area cyclists. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

“

Despite everyone saying it couldn’t be done or that it was too dangerous … as if serving in Afghanistan as an engineer wasn’t dangerous, Rob proved that you set your goals, not a therapist or anyone else. And with a little help, anything can be done.

”

he fell. Towels provided cushioning on handlebars and the bike’s frame.

“Despite everyone saying it couldn’t be done or that it was too dangerous … as if serving in Afghanistan as an engineer wasn’t dangerous,” Wordin said, “Rob proved that you set your goals, not a therapist or anyone else. And with a little help, anything can be done.”

Jones set aside riding for a time and pursued a new challenge: rowing. He went on to become a Paralympian, bringing home a bronze medal, with his partner, from the 2012 London Games.

Last year, Jones told Wordin, “I am riding across the country.” Jones chose

a route, riding east to west, from Bar Harbor, Maine to Camp Pendleton. Biking about 30 miles per day, with his brother and then dad following, Jones crossed the country during one of the nation’s worst winters on record.

On Saturday, Rob’s more than 5,000mile, six-month ride neared its end.

Escorted by 50 or more riders, Jones left Dana Point in the early hours to Camp Pendleton, where he received a hero’s welcome. Clark, the man who got Rob going, rode beside Jones as he completed his journey.

“I am not surprised to see Rob achieve his goals, because he is that kind of guy,” Clark said.

Jones rode into San Diego’s Petco Park Sunday on the bike that took him across the nation. Marking the Padres’ Military Opening Day, Jones threw out the ceremonial first pitch and was honored by actor Gary Sinise, who after his role in Forrest Gump as double-amputee Lt. Dan Taylor became an advocate for wounded veterans.

Jones finished his ride but hasn’t reached his $1 million fundraising goal to assist veterans facing similar challenges. He raised about $115,000 thus far, which will go to support Ride 2 Recovery, Semper Fi Fund and Coalition to Salute American Heroes.

“Having a purpose and having something to work toward is always going to make your life better,” Jones said. “In order to get what you want, you have to prove it to yourself and work at.”

Read more about Rob’s road to recovery at www.robjonesjourney.com. SC

—Ride 2 Recovery founder John Wordin

and fellow veteran riders.

Rob slowly began riding in early 2011.

Together with Clark, Jones took to a tandem bike, allowing Jones to build up his core strength and regain his mobility. The cycling helped him walk.

As Jones grew stronger, he took to the pavement solo but clipping in and out of pedals was difficult without knees. Clark and Jones continued to work, and Jones devised a plan to protect himself when

SCENE { I N S A N CL EM ENTE }

San Clemente artist Jason Kuncas works on his painting “Spanish Tile” on one of San Clemente’s traffic-

control boxes at the corner of Camino Mira Costa and

Camino de Estrella. Kuncas is participating for the first time in the city’s 3-year-old street art program, which gets artists to paint control boxes

around the city. He and six other artists have until April 30 to complete their work. A public viewing is scheduled for Sunday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to noon, to watch the artists at work.

Accompanied by more than 50 cyclists, wounded veteran Rob Jones rides down Pacific Coast Highway en route to the final stop of his cross-country trip, Camp Pendleton. Photo: Tiffini Skuce Ride 2 Recovery

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

Page 15

Photo: Jim Shilander

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Love: Keep It Simple Lasting senior love based on simple relationship characteristics

A

s a relationship columnist for 20 years, I’ve heard lots of stories from people about why their marriages or relationships didn’t last. I’ve heard people disparage their exes. I’ve heard how couples have mistreated each other. The reasons for relationship failures become a litany of woes, which never seem to end.

But in the last couple of weeks, something refreshing happened. Two widowed people, one man and one woman, independent of one another and from different parts of the country, sent me emails that were simple, and yet, contained information and tidbits about what characteristics help make marriages and relationships endure.

The first message came from Steve, an Orange County resident. After 42 years of marriage, Steve’s wife Linn passed away in January 2011, following a battle with leukemia that lasted two-and-a-half years. He said, “I miss her all of the time, since we felt like newlyweds every day. She was the first woman I had been with intimately.”

Several months later, Steve called his 10th-grade high school sweetheart, Kathleen. During the conversation, he asked, “Are you married?” Her reply, “No, and I haven’t dated in 17 years.” Steve changed that when he asked her out and they started dating.

Steve said, “I discovered she is sweet, kind, caring and has other qualities that Linn had. God has blessed me with another incredibly special person.”

Sweet, kind and caring. Characteristics as simple as that. Toss in a person with thoughtfulness and compassion and those are the qualities important to Steve. Last summer, Steve and Kathleen attended their 50th high school reunion together.

On his birthday in December, he asked her to marry him. She accepted.

Steve said, “I’ve learned the secret to a

long and happy marriage. If the house needs dusting and vacuuming, do it yourself. Don’t berate your wife and just love her for who she is.

And most importantly, remind yourself that you’re not that good of a catch.”

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 Steve is also humble.

By Tom Blake The second simple message came from Ellen, a Georgia resident and widow of nine years, who recently met a widower of five years. She said, “We were both ready for a relationship. I think that is the important part.

It takes a while to be ready to commit to someone again.”

Ellen is right. If both members of a newly dating couple aren’t ready for a relationship, it won’t happen. If they are ready, and they’re compatible, bingo, they’ve got a match.

Ellen added, “I got lucky and met a really terrific man who treats me like a ‘princess.’ One thing we both say is that we never want to take each other for granted. We both remember saying things to our deceased spouses that maybe we should not have said. So, my partner and I are careful not to say hurtful things. We live everyday like it is our last. It truly is wonderful.”

Granted, what Steve and Ellen stated in their correspondences was basic and simple. Who said that finding love after 50, 60 and 70 has to be difficult to thrive?

For more dating advice and stories visit, www.findingloveafter60.com and to comment, email Tom at 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

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 San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

Page 16

SC SPORTS San Clemente

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

GUEST OPINION: By Beth Sanden

More than Just a Marathon Beth Sanden’s experience at the 2014 Boston Marathon on the first anniversary of the bombings

T

his was more than a marathon. participate in the marathon. They wanted There was no room for fear. You to show people what hope we all have train and compete hard to get a spot by taking back lost ground not just from in the prestigious Boston Marathon and last year at the marathon, but through take part in it. April 21 was not about a the tragedy and suffering they had been personal best time but more like a celebrathrough fighting for our freedom. tion in a large room—20 people deep and

By Monday we were so ready for this 26.2 miles long. We were all here completeventful marathon and hundreds of buses ing unfinished business from last year’s came into the city to transport us to the marathon, which was brought to a halt by town of Hopkinton for the start. First the bombs at the finish line. blind racers took off, then the amputees There are always gaps where we do and duos, like Rick and Dick Hoyt. Monnot see people on the sidelines in other day marked the 32nd and final time Dick marathons and you are all alone, trying pushed his son Rick, who has Cerebral to do your best to be motivated. But not Palsy, through the marathon. in Boston—and especially not during this Then came the race wheelchairs and fiyear’s race. Some 36,000 participants and nally the hand cycle division—my division. one million spectators came Elite women, elite men and to take Boston back. all age groups ran all day There were also members and night to finish—taking of the National Guard, sent back our sport. out every five minutes to walk It took 2:22 for me to finish the course alongside Boston this course and I was not police, sheriffs and highway looking for a personal best. patrol. There were helicopI spent time blowing kisses ters overhead for safety. to everyone along the way, I arrived on Thursday, including those who had our April 17, and was embraced safety in mind. I felt God had at Old South Church, us covered the whole way to located near the finish line, the finish line. You should where Bostonians gave out have heard the crowds when over 8,000 hand-knit scarves I blew those kisses, they from all 50 states and the cheered even louder, espeeight countries represented cially at the finish line when Beth Sanden poses with a in the race. Every scarf was they called out my name on warrior following the adorned in marathon colors, wounded Boylston Street.

Boston Marathon. Courtesy photo declaring solidarity for all “Here comes Beth Sanden the athletes coming to the race. There from San Clemente, Calif. blowing kisses were notes safety pinned to each scarf by as the crowd goes wild for her finish,” the those who made them with encouraging announcer said. words of support.

You could hear the roars all around Friday night was a Nike/Challenged you. And that is what resonated for all Athletes Foundation fundraiser and the finishers this year at the 2014 Boston celebration dinner for those whom the Marathon. organization helped obtain prosthetics for Beth Sanden is a San Clemente resident due to loss of limbs. Celeste Corcoran, a and avid marathon racer. She was partially double amputee who lost her legs in the paralyzed from the waist down several years bombings last year, was there to greet us ago and now mentors other disabled athletes and tell her story. It was a story of hope through organizations like Challenged because of the foundation’s help and also Athletes Foundation. She is a member of a story of courage. Corcoran told us her Achilles International, a nonprofit that daughter and sister were going to run helps disabled athletes get back into sports across the finish line together this year, and active lifestyles. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide vawhich they did. riety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Saturday, our 25 Wounded Warriors Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely from the Achilles International Freedom those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Team were flown in from Walter Reed Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com National Military Medical Center to San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

Page 17

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING

Oasis Heating & Air

31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

APPLIANCES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

APPLIANCE SERVICES & REPAIRS

ASAP Appliance Service

3200 Legendario, 949.361.7713, www.asapapplianceservice.com

ART GALLERIES

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

BOOKS

Village Books

99 Avenida Serra, 949.492.1114, www.DowntownSanClemente.com

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

Lure of Chocolate, Gourmet Foods & Gift

949.439.1773, www.LureofChocolate.com

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate

99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com

FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

GRAPHIC DESIGN

IMAGES/Creative Solutions

117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com

HAIR SALONS

Kreative Hair Design

173 Avenida Serra, 949.498.6245

HEATING

Oasis Heating & Air

31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

LANDSCAPING

Costa Verde Landscape

License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com

MANAGEMENT - HOA

AMMCOR

910 Calle Negocio, Ste. 200, 949.661.7767, www.AMMCOR.com

CONCRETE

Costa Verde Landscape

License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com

DENTISTS

Eric Johnson, D.D.S.

647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com

Kristen Ritzau DDS

122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.498.4110, www.KristenRitzauDDS.com

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back

949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric

949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST

Lange & Minnott

1201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 203, 949.492.3459

MATTRESSES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

MORTGAGES

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

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

SC Rider Supply

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

MUSIC LESSONS

Danman’s Music School

949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

Janet Poth - Violin & Viola

413 Calle Pueblo, 949.922.6388, janpoth@aol.com

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE! Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!

Write-up of 50 words with logo.

Four weeks in print and online.

Contact Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

PAINTING

KC Painting & Decorating

3349 Paseo Halcon, 949.388.6829, www.bringcolorintoyourlife.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD

1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com

PEST CONTROL

Colony Termite Control

1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com

PHARMACIES

Sea View Pharmacy

665 Camino De Los Mares, #101, 949.496.0123, www.seaviewpharmacy.com

PLUMBING

Bill Metzger Plumbing

1218 Puerta del Sol, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax

949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com

RESTAURANTS

Café Calypso

114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

Jim Thomas Roofing

162 Calle de Industrias, 949.498.6204

SALONS

Salon Bamboo

150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com

Salon Bleu

207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com

Sanctuary Salon & Spa

1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, 949.429.5802, www.sanctuarytalega.com

SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

TERMITES

Colony Termite Control

1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com

WEBSITE DESIGN

San Clemente Website Design

949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION

Offshore Construction

949.444.6323, www.offshoreconstruction.org

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

SC Pool & Spa Works

1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com

PRINTING

Printing OC

27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, 949.388.4888, www.printingoc.com

REAL ESTATE

Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group San Clemente, 949.842.3631, www.forterealtygroup.com

Marcie George Star Real Estate South County

949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net

LIST LOCALS ONLY

USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com FOR SALE KING SIZE PILLOWTOP MATTRESS - NEW - $250 Still factory sealed in the MFRs original plastic bag. Not refurbished, never used. Need to sell ASAP! 949-842-9994

GARAGE SALES ESTATE SALE Antiques, Collectables, Books, Electronics, Tools, Home Goods, Luggage, Chrystal , Clothes and much more April 25th 26th and 27th 7am to 4 pm 27242 Paseo Peregrino, San Juan Capistrano 92675 GARAGE SALE Stop by 26326 Via California in Capistrano Beach between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. for deals on landscaping equipment, electronics, cosmetics and more. 64-gigbyte iPad and iPod available, elliptical exerciser, SONY television, luggage, roller skates and other miscellaneous items.

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

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED LOOKING FOR HELPER some food prep and cleaning.

Light laundry 2 afternoons weekly $14-$15/hr San Clemente 949-922-0311

SERVICES LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733

SURF STUFF MENS WETSUITS Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit.

New condition. Size small $65.

Quiksilver full suit, barely used.

Size medium $75. Call or text 949.533.9761.

SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times April 24–30, 2014

Page 19

www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Triton Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, news and more for all the San Clemente spring sports teams, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Girls Swim Undefeated in League After back to back wins over Dana Hills and Mission Viejo, the San Clemente girls swim team currently stands at 2-0 in South Coast League dual meet action.

The Tritons (4-0, 2-0) beat the Dolphins 68-62 on April 15. The meet came down to a decisive final relay, which the Tritons won. The team’s previous league win came against the Diablos in a 69-61 victory on March 25.

San Clemente will host Laguna Hills in a league meet on April 24.

Tritons Volleyball Sweeps Cougars The San Clemente boys volleyball team swept Capistrano Valley in three games on the road on April 22 to pick up their sixth win in a row and their fourth consecutive South Coast League victory.

San Clemente (15-4, 4-0) senior Shawn Stephens led the team with 17 kills and senior Nick Goldstone had 22 assists in the 25-18, 25-15, 25-23 win.

San Clemente failed to drop a match in the first loop through league play. They will travel to play Tesoro on April 24.

Softball Set for Match with Top-Ranked Diablos Following a 9-2 start to their season, the San Clemente softball team has dropped three straight leading up to their April 24 road game against Mission Viejo, the No. 1 team in the CIF-SS Division 2 coaches’ poll.

The Tritons (9-5, 0-2) lost back to back South Coast League games against Dana Hills and Tesoro on April 15 and April 17, respectively. Both games were closely contested and the Tritons lost the two matches by a combined four runs.

The meeting with undefeated Mission Viejo will be the first of two this season for San Clemente.

Tritons Lacrosse Downs Agoura The San Clemente boys lacrosse team breezed past Agoura 15-5 in a nonleague match on the road on April 19.

The Tritons (10-4, 5-0 league) benefitted from four defensive goals in the win.

Defensemen Adam Brownell scored twice while Stone Sims and Nick Shippy each netted one goal to add to the Tritons offensive efforts.

Austin Streeter and Jack Renard each had four goals and one assist and goalie Austin Boyer had 11 saves.

The Tritons defeated Trabuco Hills 8-2 on April 23, solidifying their place at the top of the league standings.

Boys Golf Defeats Diablos The San Clemente boys golf team was able to stay atop the Sea View League standings by defeating second-place Mission Viejo, 206-208, at Mission Viejo Country Club on April 22. The win put the

San Clemente’s Austin Lickley and the boys lacrosse team sit atop the South Coast League standings.

Photo: Curt Guillotte

Tritons (9-6, 5-0) two games clear of the Diablos in the standings.

Tritons Offense Explodes in Shutout of Hawks The San Clemente baseball team did not start off the middle stretch of the Sea View League schedule particularly well.

A 4-3 loss to Dana Hills on April 8 ended what was a county-best 10-game Tritons win streak. A 6-4 late inning loss to Aliso Niguel followed on April 11.

A two-game series against Laguna Hills was apparently all San Clemente needed to get back on track.

The Tritons swept the Hawks in back to

back games from April 16-17, outscoring their opponents by a 21-2 margin.

In the 4-2 series opening win, San Clemente (17-5, 4-2) hit five doubles and stole a season-high seven bases. Their 17-0 shutout win saw them set several new statistical benchmarks on the season.

The team recorded season highs in runs scored (17), RBIs (15) and hits (15).

Junior pitcher Kolby Allard spun four innings of one-hit ball, retiring 12 of the 13 batters he faced, six by way of strikeout.

The two wins brought the Tritons back into a tie for second place in league with Aliso Niguel. Both teams are chasing firstplace Dana Hills (16-5, 5-0). The Tritons were set to play San Juan Hills on April 23.

Results were not available at press time.

Chargers Official Says Team Dedicated to Staying in City PR director says outlook for season is positive

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

an Diego Chargers Public Relations Director Bill Johnston told members of the San Clemente Exchange Club on April 17 that the team’s outlook was positive, given the success of the club’s regime change last year.

Johnston, who has worked for the club for 31 years, the last 24 as public relations director, said the team’s late season run into the NFL playoffs came, in part, because of the “kick in the butt,” they received from new head coach Mike McCoy and general manager Tom Telesco, both of whom are in their early 40s.

The Chargers finished the 2013 season with a 9-7 record and punched their ticket into playoffs with an overtime win over the Kansas City Chiefs on the final day of the San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

regular season.

“We see the momentum we built last season going up,” Johnston said. “There’s nothing like the motivation of proving people wrong.”

The team could go any number of ways in the upcoming NFL draft on May 8, Johnston said, though Telesco had indicated he wanted to place an emphasis on building team speed, which could mean the team selecting a wide receiver or defensive back.

While not on the football side of the operations for the team, Johnston joked that he “would be surprised if we drafted a quarterback in the first round.”

There has been talk of the Chargers leaving Qualcomm Stadium and even the San Diego area for several years,

San Diego Chargers Public Relations Director Bill Johnston address members of the San Clemente Exchange Club on April 17. Photo: Jim Shilander

and Johnston addressed the issue at the gathering.

Responding to a club member’s ques-

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tion, Johnston said the team was doing what it could to stay in San Diego, and there were “no plans to look for anything other than San Diego,” for a stadium. Currently, the club is focused on an area of downtown San Diego east of Petco Park, which Johnston said would be a good fit logistically. The new stadium could be partially paid for with the sale of the land at Qualcomm Stadium and the former San Diego International Sports Center, though that project had “a long way to go.”

“Our owners are very patient, and we want to see this through,” Johnston said.

In addition to his duties with the club, Johnston has received awards for raising funds for Huntington’s Disease, a neurological illness that struck Johnston’s wife, Ramona, in 1999. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

San Clemente’s Aaron Payne recorded his 41st career stolen base for the University of Oregon baseball team, a mark that set a school record. Photo: University of Oregon Athletics

Payne Runs Into Oregon Baseball Record Books San Clemente second baseman sets career stolen base record for Ducks COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

O

n April 19, University of Oregon second baseman Aaron Payne stole second base in the bottom of the eighth inning against Washington State University, cementing himself as the all-time stolen base leader in Ducks baseball history.

The stolen base was Payne’s ninth on the season and the 41st of his career. The mark eclipsed the school’s old stolen base record set by Don Reynolds in 1975. The University of Oregon did not have a baseball program from 1982-2008.

Payne, a San Clemente High School graduate, has been an efficient base stealer for two years running. In his first year as a starter in 2012, Payne stole 16 bases (tied for third in Pac-12) in 22 attempts and was named to the conference’s Honorable Mention list. He stole 16 bases again in 2013.

The third-place Ducks (31-10, 10-5 Pac12) are in the middle of a title race and, as of April 21, trail first-place University of Washington by five games in the standings. Payne is batting .277 with 13 RBIs and 35 runs scored in 2014. SC

On the Field With Fulham San Clemente youth soccer player Isaac Nixon competes in European squad training game SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

an Clemente resident Isaac Nixon made his European club soccer debut at the age of nine over his spring break recess. The Marblehead Elementary third grader was invited to take part in a youth academy training game exhibition with Fulham Football Club, a professional soccer team that plays in the English Premier League, on April 8.

Nixon, who plays with local club team SC United, was invited to make the trip to London after being spotted by European scouts who came to San Clemente last summer. After SC United director of coaching Chris Murray put the Nixon family in touch with a European sports agent, the formal paperwork was drawn up and the youngster took the pitch for Fulham.

Nixon played with a Fulham youth academy team and competed against another local club in a friendly match. Nixon

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scored four goals in his debut.

“It was a lot of fun.

The players there are really good and are very serious,” Nixon said.

In European soccer, it is very common Isaac Nixon. Courtesy photo for young players to be brought up through a professional club’s ranks to learn the playing style of the senior team. Fulham FC’s U18 Premier Academy League team claimed the 2013 championship.

Playing with an English club team requires a valid European passport, so Nixon will not play with the team again anytime soon. He will continue to play for SC United’s B10 team for the 2014-2015 season. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Rhyn Chambers. Photo: Andrea Swayne

GROM OF THE WEEK

Rhyn Chambers

R

hyn Chambers met up with us at T Street, one of his favorite surf breaks, to shoot the breeze and talk about his life growing up as a surfer in San Clemente. The 9-year-old Concordia Elementary School third-grader spoke about his diverse interests, favorite things and dreams for the future.

Rhyn on surfing: “I’ve been surfing for about five years. My dad taught me. He’s a really good teacher. I like both shortboarding and longboarding. Gliding on the waves is fun and it’s fun to jump off the back of the wave.”

Rhyn on sports: “I play baseball, soccer and basketball. I also like swimming, running and surfing, of course.”

Grinds: “My favorites are hamburgers,

RESULTS NSSA Open, Event No. 9, April 19-20, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty MEN: 1. Colt Ward, San Clemente 12.83; 2. Nic Hdez, Santa Cruz 12.77; 3. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente 12.43; 4. Jake Marshall, Encinitas 11.90. JUNIORS: 1.

Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente 14.20; 2. Nolan Rapoza, Long Beach 13.27; 3. Jake Marshall, Encinitas 10.33; 4.

Eithan Osborne, Ventura 8.33. BOYS: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas 17.50; 2. Tommy McKeown, Oxnard 12.07; 3.

Ethan Mudge, Capistrano Beach 11.30; 4. Jackson Butler, Encinitas 5.73. MINI GROMS: 1. Jett Schilling, San Clemente 15.10; 2. Taj Lindblad, San Clemente 11.57; 3. Levi Slawson, Encinitas 10.00; 4. Connor Marshall, Encinitas 8.20. WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, San Clemente 16.00; 2.

Juli Hernandez, Costa Mesa 9.60; 3. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla 9.00; 4. Rachel Tominaga, Manhattan Beach 6.10.

GIRLS: 1. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla 12.00; 2. Alexxa Elseewi, San Clemente 11.70; 3. Sidney Johnson, Carlsbad 7.07; 4. Ashley Beeson, Trabuco Canyon 3.83. AIRSHOW: 1.

Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente; 2. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente; 3. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente; 4. Gunner Day, San Clemente; 5. Jordan Kudla, San Clemente; 6. Jake Marshall, Encinitas. PERFORMERS OF THE EVENT: Griffin Colapinto; Nick Marshall; Tia Blanco.

UPCOMING EVENTS April 26-27: NSSA Open, Event No. 10, San Onofre State Park, Upper Trestles May 10-11: WSA West Coast Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach

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pizza, apples, yogurt and my mom’s homemade fruit smoothies.”

Hobbies: “Building with Legos is fun because you get to make up your own designs.”

Careers: “I want to be a building contractor like my dad, or an architect, or a professional baseball player. I’m not that interested in being a pro surfer but I want to surf for forever.”

Contests: “I want to keep doing stuff like the San Onofre Surf Club contests and the Stoke-o-Rama. I might try the WSA series next year.”

Favorite surf breaks: “I like T Street for shortboarding and San O for longboarding.”

Travel: “I’ve been to Mavericks for the big wave contest and surfed in Costa Rica and Baja. I really want to go to Teahupoo someday too.”

School: “I really like it—especially math.”—Andrea Swayne

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 60-62 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-10’+ poor-fair Immediate: Fun south/southwest groundswell continues along with modest northwest wind and groundswell mix. Surf in the waist-chest high (3-4’) zone prevails at better exposures, as top combo and summer focal points see plus sets around favorable tides to shoulder high+ (4’+). Conditions remain most favorable in the morning with calm to light southeast flow. Winds trend south to southwest through the morning before a light+ afternoon sea-breeze develops.

Size is down a notch for Friday as our northwest swell eases and modest south/southwest swell continues. Morning conditions remain semi problematic with a fun combo running for the exposed beachbreaks.

Longer Range Outlook: Solid new south/southwest groundswell builds in over the weekend along with a modest+ northwest swell. Size builds into the shoulder-head high-overhead range at good breaks (4-6’), with larger surf developing for standouts by the end of the weekend. Winds and conditions look problematic Saturday, improving substantially for Sunday. Check out Surfline.com for all the details!

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SURF

Honoring Hobie Alter Friends, family and admirers paddle out at Doheny to celebrate the life of the surfing and sailing legend

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

H

ave a Hobie Day” is more than just the catchphrase of the proprietor of Southern California’s first surf shop, pioneer of the modern surfboard and Hobie Cat sailboat inventor. It was, and is, a motto—a way of life, shaped and revolutionized by Hobart “Hobie” Alter.

For the hundreds who assembled at Doheny State Beach Friday, April 18 to honor the life of Hobie, the gathering epitomized a Hobie day.

Alter died, surrounded by family, at his home in Palm Desert on March 29. He was 80.

Fulfilling his request for a traditional Hawaiian paddle-out memorial after his death, family, friends and devotees paid their respects to the man and his gifts to surfing and sailing culture.

Paddling prone on surfboards, stand-up paddling, kayaking, paddling outriggers, piloting Hobie Cats and other boats, or watching from the sand, an estimated 1,000 people congregated to honor and share their memories of Hobie Alter.

The water ceremony began with a circling of attendees, a Hawaiian prayer and song. Kahu (Hawaiian spiritual leader) Eric Kaleolani Keawe officiated. The ceremony included a ho’okupu (offering).

Family members scattered ocean water, sand, soil and rock salt from Hawaii, along with flower leis, a tradition representing a

Hundreds gather in the water off of Doheny State Beach, April 18 at a memorial paddle-out for legendary surf and sailing icon Hobie Alter. Alter died March 29. He was 80. Photo: Gibby/zone57.com

Memorial attendees pin notes and photos for Hobie onto foam surfboard blanks at Doheny State Beach.

Photo: Andrea Swayne

A view from within the paddle-out crowd.

Photo: Emmy Lombard

Classic cars and surfboards bearing the Hobie name, along with Hobie Cats, peppered the park grounds after the paddle-out. Photo: Andrea Swayne

final farewell, Keawe said.

The group cheered, smiled, cried, held Hobie paddles in the air, set flowers afloat and splashed water during the celebratory farewell ritual. Boats sounded their horns and the arcing water spray of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Harbor Patrol boat refracted the afternoon sunlight, creating a rainbow.

The event succeeded as a celebration of life, and of the fun brought to life by Hobie Alter.

Alter’s transformation of the surfing and sailing industries and culture began in 1950 when he started shaping balsa wood

boards in his family’s Laguna Beach garage. By 1954 his father, annoyed with the dusty mess, helped Hobie open a surf shop on Pacific Coast Highway in Dana Point. It would become Southern California’s first storefront dedicated to the rising sport.

It was there that, working with friend and co-worker Gordon “Grubby” Clark, Hobie began the modern surfboard’s transition from wood to polyurethane foam and fiberglass. In 1967, Hobie’s love of sailing prompted him to apply his foam and fiberglass recipe toward the creation of a lighter and more affordable sailboat—one that could be launched from the beach and piloted by a single sailor—the Hobie Cat. Hobie always found a way to take a fun activity and make it better, including forays into skateboards, the Float Cat floating pontoon seat for fly fishing and the Hobie Hawk remote controlled glider, to name a few. While his many design innovations to existing recreational equipment effectively upped the fun factor, he brought the masses along for the ride. Whether people joined Hobie in business ventures or enjoyed the playthings he made, the memories of Hobie and his creations reached far and wide.

Following the water ceremony, and back on land, the crowd lingered to share stories and reminisce about the man who was a loved one, friend, mentor and pioneer of fun.

The send-off included a standing row of foam surfboard blanks where people pinned photos and notes to Hobie as a visual remembrance and show of gratitude.

People of all ages and varying levels of connection with the iconic innovator expressed their thoughts on paper adding to the moving display. Ten-year-old Jack Culp of San Juan Capistrano was among those who felt moved to pen a note to Hobie.

“I feel honored to be here. He has made such a difference in the surf industry and everything water related. I came here because I really wanted to honor him for that,” Culp said. “Hobie was my friend’s great uncle. I think he was really lucky to have had him in his family.”

As people mingled, admiring the large assemblage of classic Hobie surfboards, Hobie Cats and classic cars bearing the iconic brand name, many took a turn on stage, behind the mic to talk story and share fond remembrances of time spent with Alter. Among those sharing stories were Hobie’s son Jeff Alter, Mark Johnson of Hobie SUP Boards and fellow waterman and friend Mickey Muñoz.

Sheri Crummer, a surf photographer from San Clemente, also shared a story, then summed up the session with heartfelt appreciation.

“I would like to thank Hobie for all the joy and all the stoke he gave everyone over the years,” she said.

The indelible legacy of joy and stoke Hobie leaves in death—ingrained by his more than six decades of ingenuity and invention—will certainly live on. Hobie Alter, rest in peace.

To see video footage from the paddle-out memorial, log on to www.sanclementetimes. com. SC

The surfboard blank memorial included “thank you” notes, farewell wishes and memories, penned and pinned by attendees. Photo: Andrea Swayne

San Clemente Times April 24-30, 2014

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www.sanclementetimes.com