June 19, 2014

LO C A L

N EWS

June 19-25, 2014

YO U

C A N

U S E

Courtney’s SandCastle Gives CUSD Special Education Students Place to Play PAGE 5 VOLUME 9, ISSUE 25

Dreams Become Reality Volunteers transform young leukemia survivor’s room into fantasy world SC LIVING/PAGE 10

A little over a month after Raelyn Beckler, 5, finished chemotherapy treatments to combat the acute lymphoblastic leukemia she was diagnosed with at 2.5 years old, she was surprised with a specially designed dream bedroom and a visit from “Queen Elsa”, (left) from Disney’s Frozen. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

Despite Cost Increases, Bidding for Beach Club Project Moves Forward EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

Citizen of the Year Don Glasgow Embarks on New Philanthropic Venture SC LIVING/PAGE 15

www.sanclementetimes.com

Find the Best Places in San Clemente for Watching the World Cup SPORTS/PAGE 17

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

SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

opportunity to have additional assistance in classrooms next school year after a successful Chromebook pilot program in several district schools, including Concordia and Vista del Mar elementary schools, following the approval of a request for proposal by the CUSD Board of Trustees June 11.

Susan Holliday, the district’s executive director of technology and information services, said the program, which provided Chromebooks, a personal computer running a Google operating system, had received favorable reviews from teachers and students. She reported that teachers said they were able to be more creative in their lesson planning. Teachers also reported the technology allowed students to work together collaboratively, leading some students to take on more leadership roles.

Five things San Clemente should know this week Ole Hanson Beach Club Process Moving Forward Despite Higher Cost Projections THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council voted to move forward with bids on the Ole Hanson Beach Club rehabilitation project Tuesday, despite a more than 27 percent increase in the project’s projected cost over the past year.

The council in May 2013 approved a modified floor plan for the Beach Club, which has been closed since 2012. At that time, the budgeted cost was $3.15 million, but then, the city, as the owner of the property, had to go through its own planning process. During a building department plan check earlier this year, issues were discovered that increased the potential cost of the project including accessibility and utility problems.

City staff told the council that those changes, combined with the improved economic outlook for builders, had increased the estimate by more than $830,000. The city had modified the plan to lower this amount, but probable construction costs were still more than $600,000 over the budgeted amount. In response, the city has earmarked approximately $365,000 from a Talega Development Fund to be used for redevelopment in North Beach and $430,000 from a Marblehead Coastal Development Agreement originally earmarked for constructing Courtney’s SandCastle.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Council members expressed dismay about the news, both about the increased costs as well as the continuing closure of the facility, which is now estimated to be reopened in late 2015.

Councilman Jim Evert said the entire process had been “disturbing” and said it was evidence city staff needed to review the city’s planning process.

“It seems that it’s just taken forever,” Evert said.

Mayor Tim Brown said the process had gone on too long, but that the city needed to move forward.

“San Clemente needs the beach club back,” Brown said.

Staff will now take time to create a revised scope of work for the project, as San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

The developer of the Outlets at San Clemente Plaza outlet mall has offered the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center a spot on the property at a reduced rent to move the foundation’s facility there. Some of SHACC’s collection is shown here. Photo: Jim Shilander

well as send them out to bid. The process will take approximately four months before bids come in. – Jim Shilander

their areas.

Council members favored the proposal’s efforts to get more review of applications by the respective boards. Heider said a formal proposal still needs to be developed but that one would be done in consultation with the three boards. – JS

City Tree Plan May Move to Committees THE LATEST: Protection of ocean views was again on the City Council’s agenda Tuesday, and a potential change to the city’s policies may mean it will be on the agenda more often in the future.

Beaches, Parks and Recreation director Sharon Heider said staff had developed a proposal that would amend the city’s rule governing city-owned trees allowing residents to request removal and replacement provided that the resident pay for it. However, before any such removal the proposal would have to go before a city board, based on the location of the tree, which would allow for public input before moving the proposal to council for final approval.

Heider explained that under the proposed change, if a resident wishes to have a tree removed in a city park, the proposal would have to go before the Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission; if on the golf course, the Golf Course Committee; or the Planning Commission for one located on a city street. The city would not be involved in regulating private trees or disputes between neighbors.

WHAT’S NEXT: A number of residents objected to the proposal, noting that while property owners within 300 feet would be given notice on any such proposal, others in the city would be losing their views of the trees themselves. Other residents, however, said some of the trees had become either dangerous or overgrown

San Clemente Water Rates Increasing THE LATEST: San Clemente home and business owners will soon see a 6 percent increase in their water bills after the City Council approved the bump at a public hearing Tuesday.

City staff attributed the increase to a more than 5 percent hike in the cost of water earlier this year, with another 3.2 percent increase expected next year.

More than 90 percent of the city’s water is purchased from outside sources. The remainder of the increase will go to providing more flexibility for upgrading the city’s current water infrastructure.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Engineer Bill Cameron said while the city’s infrastructure is in “good condition,” its reserves for repairs had been depreciated in recent years, and needed to be added back in.

The city is anticipating annual 6 percent increases through 2018, with a 4 percent increase in 2019. For a single family residential home, the increase would come to $2.98, from $50.03 to $53.01. – JS

CUSD Chromebook Pilot a Success THE LATEST: Up to 5,000 Capistrano Unified School District students may get the

Page 3

WHAT’S NEXT: Holliday said there was a need for more technology in schools but that the district was unable to supply all students with Chromebooks. While the district could provide some, Holliday suggested individual school foundations also be encouraged to raise funds for the purchase of the laptops in each school classroom. – JS

Surf Museum Has Offer to Move to Outlet Property THE LATEST: Jancee Aellig, the future general manager of Craig Realty Group’s Outlets at San Clemente Plaza project, announced Tuesday that the developer has offered a 25 cents on the dollar rental rate to the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center museum to move from its current Rancho San Clemente Business Park location to the outlet mall when it opens in the fall of 2015.

Aellig said the developer had been very interested in providing a space for SHACC in an attempt to move it to a more visible location closer to the ocean. She added that the museum would be promoted within the outlet property as a “showcase,” and provide space for events to help raise funds to keep the museum open if it moved to the outlet. She said other cities had been courting the museum and developer Steve Craig was committed to keeping it in San Clemente.

WHAT’S NEXT: Barry Haun, the museum’s curator, said the museum would have to review the proposal before making a decision. – JS

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

SC Sheriff’s Blotter

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Del Presidente, 3100 Block (9:32 a.m.) A man wearing a dark blue shirt and red shorts and holding a suitcase was yelling and screaming outside of an office building.

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.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Avenida De Los Lobos Marinos, 100 Block (10:41 p.m.)

A caller alleged that partygoers were throwing up on her driveway.

COMPILED BY SEAN ROBB

Monday, June 16 DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Avenida Pico/Avenida La Pata (10:24 p.m.)

A caller reported a subject was playing the tuba in a “hobo cave.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE South El Camino Real/Avenida San Gabriel (8:38 p.m.) An apparent transient, dressed up as a clown with a trench coat and an umbrella, was standing near the intersection with a smaller person wearing a monkey mask. The caller was concerned that the masked person was a child that didn’t belong to the transient.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Vicente, 600 Block (6:20 p.m.) Six adults were behind the Calle Canasta Apartments smoking marijuana.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE West El Portal/Buena Vista (4:28 p.m.)

A man was sitting on a set of stairs inhaling computer cleaner.

Sunday, June 15

Thursday, June 12

DISTURBANCE Calle Del Comercio/Avenida San Luis Rey (8:24 p.m.) A man in a charcoal-colored truck was dumping furniture in the area.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Monterey, 200 Block (8:26 p.m.)

A caller reported that a man was “punching the air” while in his car with the door open, lights on and engine running.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida San Antonio, 100 Block (6:35 p.m.) A woman believed subjects were under her home and became irritated when she was told no one was under her house. She became more upset when a deputy suggested the problem might be related to her current mental health.

WELFARE CHECK Calle Amanecer/Avenida Pico (4:06 p.m.) A man was heard yelling that bees were stinging him. The caller couldn’t tell if there were actually any bees.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (11:35 p.m.) There was a physical argument in the street between multiple men and possible gang members.

FIREWORK VIOLATION Eminencia Del Norte, 3000 Block (7:23 p.m.) A caller reported a group of juveniles setting off fireworks.

The caller asked that someone be sent quickly or he was going to take matters into his own hands and place them under citizen’s arrest.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Calle Contenta/Calle Vallarta (10:34 p.m.) A caller reported that a party at the end of the cul-de-sac had “packs of kids in the street partying.”

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Encino Lane, 300 Block (5:47 p.m.) A man urinated on a neighbor’s property before driving off. The man left his backpack behind.

INDECENT EXPOSURE West Mariposa/Calle Puente (9:07 p.m.) A 20-year-old man wearing no shirt and black shorts was masturbating on the street corner.

Saturday, June 14 DISTURBANCE Camino La Pedrica/Calle Altea (10:50 p.m.) Two large men wearing kilts were apparently drunk.

Friday, June 13 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida La Pata/Calle Amanecer (9:38 a.m.)

A caller reported an older man with long gray hair and no shirt pushing a baby in a stroller. The caller was suspicious of a man that looked and dressed that way with a baby.

San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

Wednesday, June 11

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Avenida Victoria, 500 Block (8:45 p.m.) A man was playing a trumpet in the street.

DISTURBANCE Calle Alcazar, 1500 Block (7:31 p.m.) A caller reported that a neighbor accused their grandfather of buying beer for another neighbor who was sick.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (7:16 p.m.) A transient was sleeping at the trailhead with a boogie board next to him. The caller also reported kids were skateboarding at the Ole Hanson Beach Club.

Page 4

Mayor Sam Allevato and Tesla Motors company executives cut the ribbon for Tesla’s newest supercharging station in San Juan Capistrano. Courtesy of the city of San Juan Capistrano

News Next Door WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan Approves Roundabout for I-5/ Valle Road The San Juan Capistrano City Council on Tuesday, June 3 unanimously approved the construction of a roundabout intersection, where northbound Interstate 5 meets Valle Road and La Novia Avenue.

Currently, motorists wait around 59 seconds during afternoon hours at the fourway stop. The roundabout would decrease that time to about 24 seconds, according to a study. Traffic engineers also say the roundabout would force motorists to slow down and could decrease accidents.

Councilmembers said although the roundabout would take some getting used to, the benefits outweighed the difficulty of traversing the area and safety concerns.

Lehman Bros. will pay 37 percent of the project’s $1.6 million cost. The remaining cost will be paid for from the developers of the nearby Distrito La Novia and San Juan Meadows communities.

Tesla Charging Station Opens in San Juan Tesla car owners can now grab a coffee at Hidden House Coffee or a quick bike at Mission Grill after Tesla Motors opened its newest public charging station in downtown San Juan Capistrano June 5.

The supercharging station includes seven stalls and is located at the Union Bank park-

ing lot, 31971 Camino Capistrano. The station is open 24 hours a day and can charge specially equipped Model S’s in about 30 minutes.

Tesla Motors has close to 100 supercharging stations in the country, but its newest in San Juan is the first and only station in Orange County. The next closest station is located in Hawthorne, at the SpaceX company headquarters.

DANA POINT Attendees of Festival Asked to Bring Instruments Going along with the event’s name, attendees of the Dana Point Food, Wine and Music Festival are being asked to bring along used musical instruments to help local students in need.

The local nonprofit Acoustic for a Change will be accepting instruments at the Saturday, June 21 event, which runs from noon to 7 p.m. at Sea Terrace Park.

The organization, started by husband and wife team Arturo and Susan Echarte, collects various instruments, refurbishes everything from guitars to flutes and donates the instruments to local students and organizations. Their goal: to change the lives of local children through music.

Those making instrument donations will receive a special gift and Arturo will be playing music throughout the festival.

Instruments from bass to violins will be accepted and large instrument donations, like pianos and drum sets, can be arranged for pick up.

EYE ON SC

Fun, Unfettered CUSD special education students get day of fun at Courtney’s SandCastle STORY AND PHOTOS BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

tudents enjoying a playground on one of the last days of school isn’t remarkable. But what happened last Thursday, June 12, at Courtney’s SandCastle universal access playground, was.

More than 70 young special needs students, along with their teachers, aides and parents, from R.H. Dana Exceptional Needs Facility in Dana Point and Reilly Elementary School in Mission Viejo got a rare chance to play together at the playground, located at Vista Hermosa Sports Park in San Clemente.

The event was originally set for April, but a forecast of rain pushed the event back to June. The delay actually ended up working out well.

“The nice thing about it being the end of the year, is that it’s kind of everyone coming together,” said Sharla Pitzen, executive director of Capistrano Unified School District’s Special Education program.

“The two schools don’t get together, and so for them to be together today, to have conversations and get to see the kids, it’s an exciting opportunity to see them play and get them in another environment.”

The playground, which opened along with the sports park in 2012, was designed for just this kind of event; to allow children who may have difficulty using traditional playgrounds the means to access playscape equipment in a safe way.

Twenty-one of the children who attended were in wheelchairs, while others needed assistance from aides in other ways to help get around the park. Those in attendance included children with cerebral palsy, those facing significant

cognitive delays, autism and many other physical and developmental disabilities.

Both groups were from the moderate-tosevere programs at both schools.

Pitzen also serves on the board of the Courtney’s SandCastle Foundation, which raises money for the park. The organization and the city will break ground on the second playground phase on Saturday, June 28. That addition will include a sensory garden with features meant to stimulate all five senses of children with autism and other disabilities.

“This brings me goose bumps, seeing the kids here, actually playing and accessing the playground,” she said. “We’ve got kids in wheelchairs up on top of the sandcastle. This is the best for me.”

All over the playground, students in brightly colored shirts ran around without a care, and their adult caregivers, whether parents or school personnel, got to smile alongside them. Many were experiencing the park for the first time.

Sheila Czajkowski is a kindergarten teacher in the program at R.H. Dana ENF. “This is one of the few times everybody can do stuff,” Czajkowski said. “I have several students who are in wheelchairs and it’s fully accessible to them. We have a small playground, but nothing on this level. It’s really neat to see. The girls love the swing set and the opportunity to get out of their wheelchair for a change.”

Bill Thomas, who helped found the Friends of San Clemente Foundation, which raised funds for Courtney’s SandCastle, said the event epitomized what the playground was about.

“This is the greatest day we’ve ever had here,” Thomas said. “You see the joy in these children, especially those who’ve never been on a swing before or the way they’re sliding down from the castle. It’s really thrilling.”

Pam Passow, the city’s director of recreation, has her office at the San Clemente Aquatic Center, a stone’s throw from the playground.

R.H. Dana Exceptional Needs Facility staffer John Williams given an assist to John Paul Allen on the swings.

San Clemente Times June 19-25, 2014

Harper Pettis enjoys the ride down the slide.

“

This brings me goose bumps, seeing the kids here, actually playing and accessing the playground, we’ve got kids in wheelchairs up on top of the sandcastle. This is the best for me.

”

—Sharla Pitzen

“This is amazing, I don’t think we’ve ever had this many special needs kids, along with other kids, here at the same time,” Passow said. “We have kids of all abilities and they’re playing together and having fun. I love this. This is why I do what I do; it’s moments like this.”

Passow said classes had come to the playground before, on an individual basis, but this was the first time for such a large

Lucas Boucly enjoys his time on the playground.

Page 5

group. She hopes to continue the partnership in the future, and potentially use the site for organizations throughout Orange County.

Passow said the addition should not disrupt activities on the playground.

Construction may take up to a year, but Passow said it will likely take less time, since the area being worked on is relatively small.

Audrey Grant, a staff member at R.H. Dana, said for many children, being able to manipulate all of the specialized equipment was a highlight.

“It means that they have the opportunity to be exposed, just like any other child, to a fun playground,” Grant said. “It gets them together with their families, with their classmates. It’s wonderful.”

Grant said the playground’s designs, incorporating a pirate ship and a castle, also helped to spark children’s imaginations.

“They can be the princess or the prince for the day,” Grant said. “It’s just a great place to be. I hope a lot of kids find more opportunities to come. It’s wonderful.” SC

Ben Winkler gets help from his mother, Carol, while playing at Courtney’s SandCastle Thursday.

www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER

San Clemente Women Honored by Girl Scouts San Clemente residents Donna Carter and Lisa Demchik were presented with awards for their volunteer service to Girl Scouts of Orange County at a luncheon at the Anaheim Hilton on June 1.

Carter received the “Opening Doors” award for her efforts as the Service Unit Manager for the San Clemente Girl Scout community. After building up the San Clemente service unit, Donna turned her attention to the girls who live on the Camp Pendleton Marine base. First, she began supporting the families at the base through community service. And when she recognized there was a need for girls who live on the base but attend school in San Clemente to have Girl Scouts, she advocated on their behalf to include them in the San Clemente activities. More girls are now able to participate.

Demchik received a Spotlight Award for her continued outstanding service to Girl Scouts of Orange County.

FRIDAY, JUNE 20

Dark Friday

City Offices Closed SATURDAY, JUNE 21

Saturday Produce Basket

Former San Clemente High School Triton of the Year Quinn Hatoff speaks with Congressman Darrell Issa.

Hatoff was awarded a Gold Medal from the Congressional Award Foundation for service. Andrew Boyd of San Clemente was also honored by the organization. Photo courtesy of Quinn Hatoff

top prize. Fifty-one artists and ninety artworks were juried into the show, which is currently being held in two galleries in Staunton, at the Beverly Street Studio School and at the Augusta Art Center. The show runs through June 29.

Visit www.delantyfineart.com to see more of the artist’s work.

Former Triton of the Year Quinn Hatoff, Andre Boyd Receive Congressional Award

San Clemente resident Donna Carter recently received an “Opening Doors” award from the Girl Scouts of Orange County for expanding Scouting possibilities for students in the San Clemente area.

Courtesy photo

San Clemente Artist Receives Plein Air Award San Clemente landscape painter Rick J. Delanty was recently named “Best in Show” at “The American Landscape” exhibition in Staunton, Virginia by Juror M. Stephen Doherty, artist and editor-in-chief of Plein Air Magazine.

Delanty had three of his entries accepted, with his 16-by-20-inch acrylic painting, “River of Delights,” being awarded the San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

2012 Triton of the Year Quinn Hatoff was among several local students recently honored by Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Encinitas) for providing community service throughout the California 49th Congressional district. Andrew Boyd of San Clemente was also among the recipients.

The Congressional Award is presented

by Members of Congress, to individuals between the age of 14 to 23 years old, who register with the Congressional Award Foundation and then complete hours related to volunteer public service, personal development, physical fitness and expedition or exploration. A gold medalist must complete 400 hours over 24 months, a silver medalist must complete 200 hours over 12 months, and a bronze medalist must complete 100 hours over seven months.

Hatoff received the gold medal. Boyd received the bronze.

Hatoff said in an email that he’d continued to work on the effort while attending Harvard University in Massachusetts.

“Although I began working toward the Congressional Gold Medal in high school under the guidance and support of San Clemente High School U.S. history teacher Carla Sisca, I only recently completed the necessary hours and requirements

during my time at Harvard,” Hatoff wrote.

“In high school, I committed myself to fighting for LGBT equality and for making San Clemente High School a safe space for all students through campus-wide Ally Week campaigns. In addition to campus activism, I served as Editor-in-Chief of our school’s newspaper, drum major of the marching band and president of the environmental club,” he noted.

Hatoff received a national journalism award for mental health inadequacies on campus and as a student government representative investigating institutional failures in addressing campus sexual assault.

“My most meaningful experience on the road to the Gold Medal came during the summer after my freshman year when I had the opportunity to teach underserved, high-potential students at a summer charter school in San Juan Capistrano,” Hatoff wrote. “The experience gave me a newfound appreciation for the amount of energy and time that goes into effective teaching, and it ignited a passion for fighting for education equity that I will bring into the real world.”

As part of the inaugural class of Teach for America Equity Fellows, Hatoff will be teaching in low-income communities in Los Angeles upon graduation from Harvard.

Pair of Students Named to Dean’s Lists Haley Kool of San Clemente has been named to the Dean’s List at Malone University in Canton, Ohio, for the 2014 spring semester. To qualify for the Dean’s List, a student must achieve a 3.5 grade point average or better and be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours.

Haley Kool is a business administration major.

Ryan Malouff of San Clemente was

Page 6

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Every Saturday get a fresh-picked $20 veggie/fruit baskets at Villagio Giardino at the Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, 949.697.0032, www.vrgreenfarms.com/Basket.

MONDAY, JUNE 23

Spanish Conversation

11 a.m. Meet at Café Calypso for coffee and conversation. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.9803.

German Speaking Group

2 p.m.–4p.m. German conversations at Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8436.

TUESDAY, JUNE 24

SC Sunrise Rotary Club

7:15 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Meeting at Signature Grille at the Talega Golf Club, 990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.0663, www.scsunriserotary.org.

Jam Session for Seniors

10:15 a.m. Bring your instruments and play music at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.6524.

SCHS Graduation

4 p.m. Senior Graduation for the Class of 2014 at San Clemente High School.

Thalassa Stadium, 700 Avenida Pico, www.sctritons.com.

named to The Citadel’s spring 2014 semester Dean’s List. The recognition is earned by those registered for 12 or more semester hours whose grade point ratio is 3.2 or higher with no grade below a C for the previous semester’s work.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more.

We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths

by Jim Kempton

That Was Easy Is “Simple” Sometimes Simply the Best?

I

n 1969 following a devastating love affair with his best friend George Harrison’s wife, rock guitar hero Eric Clapton walked into a sound studio with a group of exceptional musical mates and recorded “Layla,” considered by many to be the finest rock opus of that decade.

Named after a 13th century Persian princess whose refusal to marry her secret lover drove him to madness, Clapton chose the story to evoke his own. Fueled by heartbreak, pouring his grief into every note, Clapton and his band Derek and the Dominos fashioned an entire album of torrentially aching love songs that became a lasting testament to unrequited passion.

Attending a small college in San Diego, I served on the Associated Student Body staff the same year Clapton toured for the Layla album.

As student government officers, we were entrusted with choosing the musical events, allowing us to select who would

Letters to the Editor SEEK OUT THE COMPASSIONATE ROUTE ON HOMELESS ISSUE KAREN REISDORF, San Clemente

Recent letter writers Sandra Weaver and Diane Schultz have something in common. They both want SB2 resolved and the homeless crisis ended.

One would like to see a shelter built where the homeless can seek refuge for a bed, some food, a shower, a bathroom, and ideally some medical care, thus getting many of them off the streets and on their feet to return to society as a contributing member.

The other would rather continue to see “them” begging on street corners, sleeping on doorsteps and parking lots and in our fire dangerous open spaces, digging for food in dumpsters and wants to lock them out of her neighborhood.

Her answer to protecting her family leads to building higher walls and gates around her compound perhaps with shards of glass glued on top and nighttime roving guard dogs as is done in third world countries.

Do these people know about Laura’s San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

play at our small auditorium. With popular graffiti of the time proclaiming “Clapton is god,” Derek and the Domino’s was our unquestionable first pick.

As with many of the WAVELENGTHS bar-setting shows the

By Jim Kempton Dominos put on that year, Clapton turned his back on the audience when he played his scorching guitar solos.

As a student body officer, one of the tasks that fell to me was introducing Clapton to the lone music critic who had come for an interview. To be one of the few nonband members allowed back stage during the event was a more than worthwhile compensation.

After the show, having made the introduction, I hung backstage hoping to listen in, unnoticed. What would the man whose lightning-fast solos had earned him the moniker “Slowhand” have to say?

Midway through his short interview, the critic (pompous as he was prejudiced) lobbed a disdainful query to Clapton about turning his back on the audience during the solos.

“I don’t understand what the fuss is about,” the critic challenged Clapton. “I watched you from the back here and those runs on your guitar are just not that hard

to play. In fact they are quite simple. Why do you feel you have to hide them when almost anybody could play them?”

There was a momentary pause as Clapton leaned forward toward his dismissive critic. Every unseen ear in the backstage was straining to hear the reply.

Clapton’s soft voice articulated every word of the two-sentence maxim: “They’re not that hard to play,” he responded.

“They’re just really hard to think up.”

It was, as I look back on it now, a defining epiphany.

Like Vermeer’s magnificent painting technique, Newton’s straight-forward description of gravity, Michael Jordan’s gravity-defying leaps or Hemingway’s spare prose, Clapton’s assembled notes were deceptively simple. But, they were also astonishing in their effortless beauty.

Sometimes I realized then, simple is simply the best.

Jim Kempton is a music lover who believes Eric Clapton and Duane Allman’s double lead on “Why Does Love Have to Be So Sad” (from the Layla album) is arguably the fastest, most dramatic and heartbreaking work in the rock music canon. 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

Law? Do you? Had she and her kind reached out for information about the homeless she might learn that there are steps being taken to alleviate this sad situation in our country today.

Fear rules when ignorance blankets a community.

SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT AIR PATROL MUST CHANGE ARTHUR AND JEAN MANOOGIAN, San Clemente

First off, we’d like to thank the sheriff’s department for all the dedication and hard work they display on a daily basis. It’s a job not many of us would care to do. The unforeseen dangers are many and we tend to be quick to criticize their work if we can find fault with it. Their decision to employ other than ground patrol is the topic I’m going to be speaking to here. Specifically, the use of air patrol.

Back when we had the San Clemente Police Department, the patrolling was done with cars and occasionally on foot.

On rare occasions one would hear the sound of a helicopter and one would know if the situation was of a serious nature.

Fast forward to today and one sees a completely different scenario. Patrolling is done with cars mainly, but with the addition of air patrol during the day and also nightly. Having lived in the same neigh-

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

Lisa Cosenza, 949.388.7700, x111 lcosenza@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@sanclementetimes.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@sanclementetimes.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett

> Lisa Cosenza ( San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

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

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale

Finance Director > Mike Reed

City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Papagianis

San Clemente Citizen of the Year Don Glasgow will be this week’s guest to discuss volunteer efforts 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 Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

borhood for close to 30 years, one feels that having a say in how things are done is, or should be, part of the process.

We started noticing the night patrol flights getting later and later. They seem to take approximately the same route over our neighborhood night after night. Point being, they were awakening us very late at night.

I inquired to the mayor, who was Stephanie Dorey at that time, and she agreed to look into this. Well, we all know that Dorey took ill and nothing became of it.

I called Sgt. Sheets, commander of air support at that time, out of John Wayne Airport and relayed our concerns. His (Cont. on page 8) Page 7

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

ART/DESIGN

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes (Dana Point)

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Kevin Dahlgren, Amanda Huffman, Catherine Manso, Sean Robb, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent

San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 25. 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

www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX Letters to the Editor (Cont. from page 7) reply was that decisions were made at the local level and to contact Lt. Lasanti, our then acting chief. After some discussion with Lt. Lasanti, he said he would look into changing the patrol patterns at night.

I also inquired of him if the constant use of the rotating chopper (which is what it’s called when circling around) was necessary in so many cases? His reply was that it was an individual call on the part of the watch commander at the time.

I next called then-Councilman Wayne Eggleston and he said the only way to gain any ground was to petition the City Council with as many signatures as pos-

sible and then approach the council with numerous individuals at a council meeting. That was some time ago.

That brings us to Father’s Day. We were awoken at about 3 a.m. to the sound of the chopper rotating, which went on till sometime after 4 a.m. It stopped for a while, then resumed. Needless to say, our—and I’m sure many others’—sleep was severely impacted. This does not make for a healthy or happy populace.

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 readersubmitted 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 Jim Dahl

Orange County’s Most Wanted OC Vector Control District targets rodents and insects

S

ince 1947, a little known agency, Orange County Vector Control District, has waged a quiet war to keep county residents safe.

Initially formed to protect Orange County from mosquitos, today OCVCD also helps control rats and red imported fire ants and provides surveillance for other disease-carrying insects and animals. Like any solid defense agency OCVCD works tirelessly to identify threats, assess risk, treat the source and educate residents on how to protect themselves.

Why is this work so vital to the security of all of us living in Orange County? The World Health Organization sounded the alarm last month, reporting that half the people living in the Western Hemisphere are at risk of a disease carried by mosquitos, ticks and flies (called vectors), including deadly illness caused by the West Nile virus.

The headlines tell us communicable disease from pests and invasive and native species is escalating. Examples include Dengue Fever, swine flu (H1N1) and avian flu (H5N1), also known as bird flu and malaria. And sadly, cases of typhus have already been reported in the county making the threat real and the work that OCVCD does more important than ever.

Even the Centers for Disease Control has weighed in. CDC Director Tom Frieden said we need to “Build the capacity to find new diseases, outbreaks and threats wherever they emerge promptly and respond effectively.”

As summer approaches, Orange County residents enjoy a natural landscape unlike anything else in the country. Mountains, wilderness areas, parks, trails and beaches will all soon see an influx of visitors. But the risks to residents can be as close as their own backyard.

Two emerging threats come from the Asian tiger mosquitos in Los Angeles County and the yellow fever mosquito in central California. Because the Asian

San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

tiger mosquito is a backyard breeder, OC residents need to act now to eliminate standing water at home—even puddles as small as a bottle cap can allow this mosquito to birth the next generation of disease carriers.

Early war dispatches from Los Angeles indicate that public education is critical.

More than 10 percent of vector control budgets statewide have been shifted to battle these mosquito strains because of the danger they pose to public health.

Unlike other mosquitos, Asian tiger mosquitos often bite during the day. Residents who see mosquitos in daytime should contact the Orange County Vector Control District immediately.

OCVCD has this advice for residents: Torn or removed window screens should be repaired or replaced. Discard containers, cans, buckets and old tires around the home. Remove water dishes from beneath potted plants, and dump or drain standing water. Also, empty birdbaths and small fountains. Don’t store water in uncovered buckets or rain barrels and clean out rain gutters and lawn drains to ensure water does not collect.

I am proud to serve on the board of OC Vector Control and have seen time and again how vital the work of this agency is to the people I serve in San Clemente. There is nothing more important we can do than protect our residents. The fight against disease won’t be won overnight, but by working together we can protect our children and families from deadly diseases.

For more info, go to www.ocvcd.org.

Jim Dahl is the Orange County Vector Control board member for the city of San Clemente. He is a former San Clemente mayor and 16-year city councilmember. 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

Page 8

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

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

Thursday | 19 YAPPY HOUR 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Follow Fido to happy hour at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel for this monthly cocktail party. Four-legged friends can enjoy complimentary biscuits while lapping up beef and bacon flavored water. Their human counterparts can purchase burgers, brews and wine. Funds raised will help support Canine Companions for Independence which provides service dogs to the disabled and the nation’s veterans. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point, www.ritz-carlton.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT OC TAVERN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Cheryl Silverstein, vocalist and Mike McKenna, pianist, perform jazz, blues and pop standards.

2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. www.octavern.com.

OPEN MIC AND COMEDY 8 p.m., Every Thursday night starting at 8:30 p.m. local comedians bring their funniest jokes. Admission is free. And, if you think you’re funny, come down at 8 p.m. to sign up for five minutes of stage time. Knuckleheads, 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.2410, www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

Friday | 20 GUITAR FOUNDATION OF AMERICA CONVENTION More than 600 classical guitar performers and scholars will take part in this five-day convention at Cal State Fullerton.

Features concerts, lectures, workshops,

master classes, an awards ceremony and an international competition. Cost $90-$350. Clayes Performing Art Center, 800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton. To register or for more info, www.guitarfoundation.org/event/2014gfaconvention.

EDITOR’S PICK

CLASSICAL GUITAR 6 p.m. Every Thursday and Friday night Ricardo entertains at Carbonara Trattoria Italiana. 111 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.1040, www.carbonara.com.

CASH’D OUT 8 p.m. Johnny Cash tribute band performs at the Coach House. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Call 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

MOVIE IN THE PARK: MONSTERS UNIVERSITY 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Follow everyone’s favorite monsters, Mike and Sully, as the overcome differences to become the best of friends. Popcorn is free. Refreshments available for purchase. Lantern Bay Park, 25111 Park Lantern Road, Dana Point 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org.

Members of the South Coast Singers perform at San Clemente’s Memorial Day celebration.

Photo: Jim Shilander

South CoaSt SingerS • June 21 7 p.m. The group of more than 50 talented singers from across Orange County perform jazz, swing, Broadway, classical, gospel, rock, patriotic tunes and more.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for students and seniors. Soka Performing Arts Center, 1 University Circle St., Aliso Viejo, www.southcoastsingers.org.

FOOD, WINE AND MUSIC FESTIVAL Noon-7 p.m. Spend the day in Dana Point sampling food and wine. Event includes exhibitions, cigar bar, kids’ zones, music, street performers and the Great Southern California Beer Festival. Free shuttle service from Dana Hills High School. Sea Terrace Community Park, Pacific Coast Highway and Niguel Road, Dana Point, www.foodwineandmusicfestival.com.

PLAY ON 8 p.m. This comedic take on a theatre group desperately trying to put on a play hits the stage through June 29. Show times vary. Tickets $15-$20, $15 for students. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

Sunday | 22 NATURE HIKE 8 a.m.-9 a.m. An easy one-mile hike at Caspers Wilderness Park with park rangers. Wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes. Sunscreen, water and insect repellant recommended. Free. Parking $5.

33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano.

For more info, call 949.923.2210 or visit www.ocparks.com/caspers.

Saturday | 21 TRAIL CLEARING AND WEEDING 8 a.m.-10 a.m. Spend some time in the great outdoors and help other volunteers clear the trails at The Reserve/Richard & Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Drinks and snacks provided. Bring work gloves if you have them. Free. To RSVP or for directions, call 949.489.9778 or visit www.rmvreserve.org.

SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh

produce and much more every Sunday on Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.

Monday | 23 INTRODUCTION TO SOLDERING 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. ExplorOcean invites you to create your own electronic device during an hour-long introductory course to soldering. $15. 600 E. Bay Ave., Newport Beach. To reserve a sport or for more info, visit www.explorocean.org.

Tuesday | 24 HOUSE OF DESIGN TOUR 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tour a 7,500-square-foot home in the Dana Point Headlands that deigners have transformed into a Mediterranean masterpiece with the Philharmonic Society of Orange County. Proceeds help fund music programs for area youth. Tickets $40 to $50. Tour runs daily through Sunday, June 29. Closed Mondays. Designers will be available for meet and greets Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Free parking at Strand Vista Park. Shuttle runs every 10 minutes. Selva Road at Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 714.840.7542, www.philharmonicsociety.org.

DREAM BROTHER 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Wednesday | 25 KRIS WINRICH 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s.

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

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

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

At the Movies: A Different Kind of ‘Night Moves’

I Jesse Eisenberg as Josh in Night Moves. Photo: Tipping Point Productions. Courtesy of Cinedigm

San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

n the middle of summer blockbuster season with films like Godzilla, X-Men and Maleficent topping the box office, independent filmmaker Kelly Reichardt’s latest drama, Night Moves, brings a very dark and chilling environment to the movie screen. After spending her last two films aiding Michelle Williams’ tour-de-force performances in Wendy & Lucy (2008) and Meek’s Cutoff (2012), Reichardt now follows Jesse Eisenberg and Dakota Fanning through one of the best indie thrillers of the year

thus far.

In this Oregon-based film, a trio of young, radical and well meaning environmentalists aim to make a difference for the planet.

Emotionally numb Josh (Eisenberg) and determined optimist Dena (Fanning) drive across state to meet up with Josh’s grungy friend Harmon (Peter Sarsgaard) to plan a secret bombing of a hydroelectric dam, a decision with consequences and more dangers than they could predict.

Alia Shawkat and James Le Gros co-star.

Page 9

Eisenberg follows The Double with a different kind of art-house feature, in one of the creepiest and subtle deliveries of his career. Fanning modestly continues to leave behind her childhood stardom for grown-up characters. Reichardt sets an eerie and unnerving tone throughout the movie that keeps audience eyes anxiously fixated on the screen. She also successfully centers Night Moves around a political topic and avoids coming across as preachy or biased. — Megan Bianco

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

... And She Lived Happily Ever After Volunteers transform young leukemia survivor’s room into fantasy world

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

R

aelyn Beckler stretches out on a snow-white shag rug. Arms spread wide, the vibrant 5-year-old moves her limbs in synchronization. “It’s snow,” she proclaims. “I’m making an angel!”

An hour earlier, Raelyn was surrounded by guests. Now, she is alone in her space, exploring each nook and cranny, examining every colorful toy, story-filled book, sparkling dress and family picture, feeling the materials and soaking in the new features of the bedroom created just for her.

There’s been a lot of change in her young life—one filled with experiences well-beyond her five years.

Raelyn was just 2 when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a rapid-progressing cancer that attacks the body’s blood and bone marrow—the flexible tissue inside bones where red blood cells are produced. Raelyn’s parents took her to the doctor with a 104-degree fever that wouldn’t break. When medications didn’t combat what doctors believed to be a cold, and the young girl became lethargic, she went back. Several tests and office visits later, she was diagnosed.

It was February 2012.

For just over two years, the young girl, nicknamed “Warrior Princess” by her father, battled the disease.

Her parents Greg and Rebecca Beckler by her side, Raelyn underwent monthly chemotherapy treatments at Children’s Hospital of Orange County, took daily doses of oral chemotherapy drugs, steroids and numerous other medications to fight off infections and mask side-effects of the treatment. With high dosages of steroids running through her small body, Raelyn’s match with cancer took a hit when she suffered from bad reactions and developed a rare condition referred to as steroid psychosis.

The Becklers only saw the daughter they knew pre-diagnosis a few days out of the month. But through the spinal taps, chemo treatments, blood transfusions, bone marrow biopsies, x-rays and doctor’s visits, Raelyn showed her resilience, her fighter’s spirit, and her parent’s maintained hope.

In April, her fight came to a triumphant end when Raelyn completed her last round of chemotherapy treatments.

The warrior princess prevailed.

Dreams Really Do Come True On Saturday, June 7, volunteers frantically rushed throughout the Becklers twobedroom Dana Point condo, acrylic jewels and rhinestones were scattered about.

The family had been sent on an advenSan Clemente Times June 19-25, 2014

After a day exploring Carlsbad’s Legoland, the Beckler family of Dana Point, pictured (L to R) Greg, Raelyn and Rebecca, return to find Raelyn’s room made into a fantasyland straight out of dreams by the nonprofit Special Spaces and a San Clemente-based designer. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

ture, to a world built from a master’s imagination out of small, colorful plastic pieces.

They headed out to explore Legoland for the day, with the promise of a big surprise waiting upon their return.

San Clemente-based interior designer Paula Oblen, the visionary behind the concept who brought Raelyn’s dream to life, perfectly aligned jewels along a freshly installed chair rail. Local construction contractor Jed Stamen pieced together new white furniture. The mother and daughter team of Shana and Denise Sutherland touched up bubblegum pink paint and delicately arranged dresses from Disney’s favorite princesses, while Denise’s sister Stacy Swaringer bejeweled little treasures.

They moved quickly throughout the day. But as seen in cable television shows highlighting home refurbishments and makeovers, things fell together in the moments before the Becklers arrived.

Pink walls donned decorated crowns, shelves were lined with Raelyn’s favorite trinkets, dresses, shoes and boas filled her new treasure chest and the princess paradise she envisioned became a reality.

It had taken since September to come to fruition, but the timing was finally right.

A Perfect Fusion of Forces Denise Sutherland, a near 40-year resident of Capistrano Beach, found what she was looking for while watching “Secret Millionaire” on ABC. It was spring 2011 and a Knoxville, Tennessee-based nonprofit called Special Spaces received a big, and generous, sur-

prise. Founded in 2004 by Jennifer Swain, the all-volunteer organization helps create unique rooms, ones providing comfort and support, for children with life-threatening illnesses.

In this episode, it was Swain not the child that was handed the ultimate shock.

A volunteer, later revealed to be millionaire entrepreneur Dani Johnson, donated some $50,000 to the non-profiteer and the family whose 5-year-old daughter was undergoing leukemia treatments.

Sutherland was hooked.

She contacted the organization, and with the backing of her family, founded the Orange County chapter and embarked on the first local room revamping. Three years and eight room designs later, this grassroots, community-based organization is giving young children, forced to grow too up fast, a space they can call their own.

Greg Beckler called in September. His family’s story resonated with Sutherland.

“I understand these children,” Sutherland said. “I understand these families and how difficult it is knowing your child has this time bomb in them and you never know when they are going to the hospital.”

The reason Sutherland brought Special Spaces to Orange County is personal.

Her brother, Marty Gentle, was 14 when he got sick. They didn’t know it at the time, but there is a genetic problem in the family with hypercoagulable states, creating a high risk for blood clot development.

Sutherland’s father and brother were both diagnosed with the condition. They died at 44 and 34, respectively.

Page 10

“I honor his memory, because when he was sick … it was a time when pre-existing conditions weren’t covered. He was always financially devastated and people who didn’t know him stepped up,” Sutherland said. “When I saw Special Spaces, I knew this is what I was supposed to do.”

The timing of Beckler’s call was off.

Each year, from October to April, Sutherland takes a break and organizes finances, prepares tax forms and holds fundraisers.

The family had just missed the mark.

But Sutherland promised, Raelyn’s room would come. The Becklers didn’t hold their breath and avoided telling Raelyn about the project, just in case it never did.

In March, forces came together and the reality of Raelyn’s special space started to form. Sutherland attended a meeting of the San Clemente Junior Women’s Club where local philanthropic organizations were awarded donations, Special Spaces was among recipients. After giving a presentation on upcoming tasks, including Raelyn’s room, Sutherland said she needed a designer for the Dana Point project.

As fate would have it, Paula Oblen was there. It was her second meeting as a member. She signed on.

Oblen and Sutherland met the family and the young lady with a zest for life and vivacious imagination. They ran through a slew of questions. Pink: Raelyn’s favorite color. Frozen: Raelyn’s favorite movie.

Her Room, Her Space As the Becklers arrived home, dozens of volunteers cheered. Waiting right around the corner, a special surprise awaited. Shock spread across Raelyn’s face as Frozen’s Queen Elsa placed a crown upon her head. Her dropped jaw turned to a smile and the pair headed inside.

With Elsa in tow, Raelyn entered her room, her jaw dropping once again. She jetted throughout the room, examined the changes and even tested out the buoyancy of her new bed. And when the crowd had left and Elsa returned to Arendelle, she lied down, spread her wings and made her angel.

A little more than a week later, Dad reports Raelyn is sleeping in her own room for the first time since her diagnosis— one she’s kept in the same order Oblen, Sutherland and the other volunteers left it. She’s also wearing a new title, that of big sister, to a baby brother, who was welcomed into the world early Wednesday morning.

And her favorite thing is still: “The cozy rug,” Raelyn says, “It feels like snow.” SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

Age of Enlightenment Recent birthdays bring change and redefine a family as college closes in

L

ast week my older son celebrated his 20th birthday and in a few months my younger son marks his 18th birthday.

While their birthdays fall within a couple months of each other, the significance and difference between their June and September birthdays is as distinct as their personalities.

My older son celebrated his 18th birthday the week before his high school graduation and it commemorated his collegiate milestone.

My younger son will celebrate his 18th birthday as he starts his senior year of high school. Adding an 18th candle to my youngest son’s cake will symbolize the shrinking gap between high school ending and college starting.

Their landmark birthdays put them both legally on the path to adulthood and leave me in the dust contemplating the consequences.

As they abandon adolescence and enter adulthood, I’m no longer a mom of minor children. For years when asked about my kids’ ages, I’ve replied by saying I’m a mom of two teenagers.

As my youngest turns 18 years old,

to say I’m a mom of a teenager is somewhat misleading, since I’m lawfully the parent of a young adult.

But it sounds so awkward to say I am the mom of young adults.

LIFE’S A BEACH All I think of when I hear

By Shelley Murphy young adult is the type of fiction I searched for when they were in middle school and needed a novel for a book report or to participate in their school’s Survivor Book Club.

According to the United States Census Bureau, I am the parent of millennials. Instead of labeling my sons as young adults, maybe I’ll reply that I have two millennials. Although, some people might think I parent potted plants.

My boys are part of the millennial generation: a segment of the population born between approximately 1980 and 2000 that doesn’t know life without digital technology or the internet.

As much as I complain about technology and my boys’ constant attachment to their cell phones, I admit it’s hard to imagine parenting without my cell phone.

My phone acts as an umbilical cord keeping us connected.

Ages ago, as a college freshman, I’d communicate with my parents once a week to check-in on a Sunday night. Today I can’t imagine only talking to my college kid once a week. I’d prefer to hear from him once a day, but he doesn’t share my enthusiasm for conversation.

I confess, technology has become my crutch; I rely on it to keep me in contact with my young adults. I know all about positive empowerment and destructive hovering, but with the Internet’s instant access to information and my lack of willpower it’s tempting to bypass boundaries.

A couple weeks ago my cell phone met its untimely death. Once I received my replacement phone and began reconfiguring it, I discovered several new and enticing applications available.

Naturally, the first app that caught my eye asked, “Do you want to know where your family members are?” It was as if my new phone could read my mind.

I naively clicked on the icon and up popped something called the Family Map. After a few more innocent clicks I immediately received two rapid fire angry texts:

“Why are you following me?” and “No, you are not tracking me!”

It’s complicated parenting my soon to be 18 year old who is about to experience unprecedented freedom and tremendous responsibility, and my 20 year old who is embracing independence and celebrating adulthood.

This year my boys’ birthdays represent major milestones for them and me. I’m no longer the mom of adolescent minors but not yet the mom of autonomous adults.

I’m still undecided how I will identify myself this year as my boys transition to adults, but next year I know my identity is inescapable: I’ll be the empty nester. Suddenly, young adult has a nice ring to it.

Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband and two sons for the past 14 years. She’s a freelance writer and contributor to the SC Times since 2006. 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.

SC LIVING

Orchestrating Hope Across Borders SC man collects instruments for children in Mexico

BY DANIELLE JUNCAL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

I

f you do not want your old violin from high school or the rusty flute in your closet, give Don Glasgow a call.

Glasgow, a San Clemente resident, has organized a new philanthropic endeavor that focuses on gathering donated musical instruments for underprivileged children in a community in Tijuana, Mexico.

These instruments will be used in the community’s budding music learning center for youth. The project was inspired by the youth programs at San Clemente’s Saddleback Church where children are taught the basics of music.

When asked about his inspiration for the project, Glasgow said, “Music is universal. The theme of this project is to educate kids and give them as many breaks in life as possible. We can’t close our eyes to the children being left behind.”

Glasgow hopes to receive all types of instruments in any kind of condition.

Drums and maracas will be used for the younger children’s instruction in the

Music is universal. The “theme of this project is to

educate kids and give them as many breaks in life as possible. We can’t close our eyes to the children being left behind.

– Don Glasgow

”

Local Real Estate By Local Experts Sponsored by

Jeremy Conrad 949.542.8348 Jconrad@conradrealestate.com Bill Conrad 949.542.8349 BillC@conradrealestate.com

It’s time to expect more…

Established 1963

Don Glasgow of San Clemente, a veteran of various philanthropic works, is working on a new project to provide used musical instuments to children in Mexico.

Photo: Danielle Juncal

fundamentals of rhythm. His long-term dream is that the children involved in the music program will start their own bands and will one day perform on stage together.

He has worked with husband and wife duo Arturo and Susan Echarte, the founders of Dana Point’s nonprofit Acoustic for a Change, to collect used instruments.

The heart of the instrument collection project is rooted in what Glasgow believes is the “power of music.”

“Music creates joy, and that joy leads to hope,” he said. “We need hope, because what else is there?”

For those who know Glasgow, his newest project should not be a surprise; he has a clear passion for philanthropy. The avid volunteer has organized large-scale

charity collections that have raised what Glasgow estimates at $750,000 in donated goods. In past charity drives, Don has collected 10,000 pairs of shoes and 175 bikes for the ministry communities in Mexico.

While his charity drives have specific areas of interest, Glasgow accepts all types of donations. He has received everything from refrigerators to wheelchairs. He takes the donated items and fixes them up with the help of his wife, Beverly.

In a 2009 charity drive, the couple sorted, assembled, and cleaned golf gear— including scrubbing close to 30,000 golf balls—for local Marines. His charity work earned him the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year award earlier this year.

In addition to his personal charitable

projects, Glasgow has worked with nonprofit organizations such as Fish for Life and Courtney’s Sandcastle. This year, he anticipates the launch of the Kingdom Builders Ministry, a volunteer foundation committed to aiding and strengthening the community in Tijuana through missionary work and donations.

“Some people call it a lot of work,” Glasgow said, “but I also call it a lot of fun.”

Glasgow does not have a goal for the number of donations of musical instruments, but he looks forward to the ways in which the local community can mobilize around a good cause.

To find out more about how to donate, contact Don Glasgow at donglasgow45@ aol.com or 949.481.0116. SC

Did you know that...

• San Clemente has 278 active listings, which is a 20% increase compared to 2013 • The average home sold for 2014 in San Clemente is $828,000, with the lowest

at $160,000 and highest at $3,200,000 • 92% of San Clemente sales are standard, equity deals, compared to 8%, which are bank owned or short sales

SC LIVING

Business Beat News from San Clemente’s business community COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER

GIVING BACK IZZA PIZZERIA 376 Camino de Estrella 949.248.4925, www.izzapizzeria.com New Izza Pizzeria owner Ron Gelet said a new charitable effort by the business was all about finding a way to fit his business philosophy with the giving nature of the community he’s bought into.

Gelet and manager Dan Cloud took over the business last August. Gelet, a veteran restaurateur, became involved with the San Clemente Junior Woman’s Club last March. Impressed by the scale of the group’s annual “Big Event” fundraiser and its effectiveness in handing out charitable gifts, Gelet said he wanted to help the organization in a significant way.

“What we came up with, in addition to doing fundraising for them, we told them we would donate 10 percent of our sales on the first and third Sundays of each month, and they could give it to whatever worthy cause they see fit to,” Gelet said. He also encouraged residents to donate to the orga-

Manager Dan Cloud and owner Ron Gelet came on board to Izza Pizzeria last August. The pizzeria has expanded its offerings and has a new program to provide support to the San Clemente Junior Woman’s Club. Photo: Jim Shilander

nization in whatever way they could.

Gelet has been in restaurants since 1973 and started the Numero Uno pizza chain in Los Angeles, as well as “dabbling” in a number of other restaurant ventures.

Although he “retired” in 1997, that “dabbling” has continued.

When a broker approached him about Izza last year, Gelet, a resident of Solano Beach, said he was initially unsure about the venture.

“I walked in to take a look at the place and I loved it,” Gelet said. “The service was really good and the food was really good, so I said ‘Let’s give it a shot.’”

The menu has expanded from just pizza to include pasta, chicken dishes and sandwiches. He’s also expanded the pizza offerings to include New York-style, deep dish and artisan offerings. SC

Members of the San Clemente High School Education Foundation board celebrate at the foundation’s fundraiser { IN S A N CLE ME NTE } at Cotton’s Point Saturday. The event, which included a live and silent auction, as well as dinner and dancing raised tens of thousands for educational programs at the high school.

Photo: Jim Shilander

SCENE

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 June 19–25, 2014

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

Page 16

SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

SC Catches World Cup Fever

Scoreboard SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

GOLF The San Clemente Men’s Golf Club is holding their annual club championship at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course from June 20-22.

The tournament, which features former touring professionals, collegiate standouts and amateurs, will test players’ skills over a three-day span in three different flights.

There will be a championship, net championship and player’s flight. Participants in the championship and net championship flights will be competing for the right to represent the club in the Southern California Golf Association’s Tournament of Club Champions.

Last year, San Clemente’s John Adams took home the first-place trophy for a record sixth time.

I

f you are anything like me, you woke up Monday morning with soccer on the mind. Monday, June 16, was the day the U.S. Men’s National Team stepped into the sweltering heat of Natal, Brazil and the crushing pressure of a FIFA World Cup soccer match.

The 2014 tournament is in its infant stages, but the past week has been filled with memorable moments, priming us for the national team’s run through the group stage.

Defending champion Spain was thumped by the Netherlands 5-1 on June 13 in a rematch of the 2010 final. Lionel Messi answered the bell and scored in Argentina’s 2-1 opening round win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 15, solidifying his star power on the world stage.

All of this excitement has been drawing San Clemente soccer fans out of their homes and into their favorite bars and restaurants to catch the drama. And if you’re truly like me, you’ve been scouring the town, looking for the best places to watch all of the action.

When the United States squared off against Ghana on Monday, the OC Tavern in San Clemente was filled with roughly 150 red, white and blue-clad supporters.

Businessmen in suits, college students draped in the American flag and youth soccer teams all sat, anxiously waiting to see if the U.S. could defeat the Black Stars, who had eliminated the U.S. from the previous two World Cup tournaments.

It didn’t take long for the place to erupt in a frenzy, as U.S. captain Clint Dempsey scored the quickest World Cup goal in the country’s history, just 30 seconds into the match. Suddenly, every person in the room was among friends, as high fives and smiles were exchanged while the goal played over and over again on instant replay.

Key Games to Watch This Weekend Thursday, June 19: Uruguay v. England, 12 p.m.

Friday, June 20: Switzerland v. France, 12 p.m.

Saturday, June 21: Germany v. Ghana, 12 p.m.

Sunday, June 22: United States v. Portugal, 3 p.m. *All games will be broadcasted on ESPN

San Clemente Times June 19-25, 2014

U.S. Men’s National Team supporters arrived at the OC Tavern early on Monday to watch America play Ghana in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Photo: Steve Breazeale

Those inside the OC Tavern weren’t the only ones glued to the television screen. The U.S. game against Ghana drew 11,093,000 viewers, making it the most-viewed men’s soccer game in ESPN broadcast history, according to Forbes.

“That was the busiest day of the World Cup for us. The U.S.A. team is what filled it up pretty good. The games bring in big business,” OC Tavern manager John Salvadori said.

Salvadori says the American team is what draws the biggest crowds, but there has also been strong support for the Mexican and Brazilian teams throughout the World Cup. The two teams played to a 0-0 draw on June 17.

Businesses, like the OC Tavern, have been using social media to notify the public that they are open early for the games, some start as early as 9 a.m., and advertise special offerings. Restaurants like Stillwater Spirits & Sounds in Dana Point have been active on Facebook pushing the marquee matchups of the day. OC Tavern has also been utilizing Instagram to get the word out.

In San Juan Capistrano, Ricardo’s Place and San Juan Hills Golf Club both offer plenty of big screens to watch the games.

Note to the seasoned veterans: Try to catch a game at Ricardo’s Place on a Taco Tuesday.

The U.S. eventually pulled off a thrilling victory over Ghana in the final minutes of play, securing three points and keeping their hopes of advancing to the knockout round alive. Now they must hope for a draw or win against Portugal and reigning Ballon d’Or recipient Cristiano Ronaldo on June 22. Their final game in pool play will be against Germany, one of the tournament favorites, on June 26.

It may not look good for the United States, given the two tough matches left on their schedule, but if you are anything like me, you’ll be out amongst the other American soccer faithful, rooting on the team and having a good time at one of the many local soccer hot spots. SC

YOUTH FOOTBALL The San Clemente High School football program is hosting their Rising Stars youth football camp at Vista Hermosa Sports Park from July 28-31.

Early registration is now open. For more

information or to register online, visit www.onetownoneteam.com.

The program is also hosting its 2014 Triton Hall of Fame Golf Tournament on June 26 at Talega Golf Club. Registration is still open. For more information, visit www.tritonfootball.com.

YOUTH BASEBALL The San Clemente High School baseball program is holding a series of baseball camps for youth players ages 5-13, starting June 30.

The program’s eighth grade-only camp, for players ages 12-13, runs from June 30 to July 3 at Vista Hermosa Sports Park.

The camp for players ages 5-9 and ages 8-12 runs from July 14-17.

For more information, email head coach Dave Gellatly at dagellatly@ capousd.org. SC WE WANT TO RUN YOUR SCORES, RESULTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS IN “SCOREBOARD.”

E-mail sports@sanclementetimes.com, fax 949.388.9977, mail or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m.

San Clemente High School hosted a Special Olympics track and field event on May 29. Courtesy photo

Capo Unified Hosts Special Olympics Event in SC

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

he Capistrano Unified School District and the Special Olympics of Southern California held their first-ever Special Olympics track and field event on campus at San Clemente High School on May 29.

Page 17

The event featured over 180 students from six local secondary schools. Participants ranged from grades 6-12 and competed in events like the 100-meter dash, relay races, shot put and the long jump. There was also a cheer clinic, tug of war and face painting booths. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email lcosenza@picketfencemedia.com

San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

Page 18

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times June 19–25, 2014

Page 19

www.sanclementetimes.com

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

CONCRETE

Costa Verde Landscape

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

DENTISTS

William Brownson, D.D.S.

3553 Camino Mira Costa, Ste B, 949.493.2391, www.drbrownson.com

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

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

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

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

Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

FOR SALE HARLEY HANDLEBARS Chrome, 8-inch, T Bars (drag specialties). Slight curve back. $70. Can send pictures. Text or call 949-633-3860 for more info.

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE - 7AM TO 1PM. Saturday ONLY June 21st. No early birds. Furniture, clothing, toys, and tools. Quality items.

313 W. Paseo de Cristobal.

SAN JUAN HILLS WEST COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Sat 6-23 8am-2pm follow signs on San Juan Creek Rd. to Calle Caballero Block 3.

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

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED 60 year old San Clemente appliances & electronics Co. hiring delivery and installation personnel. Clean driving record required. Good pay and benefits: Call Alex at 949289-5794 or email at sales@ shopdeweys.com

OTHER INTERESTING STUFF

SC Pool & Spa Works

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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

THOMPSON CHIROPRACTIC PATIENT APPRECIATION DAY All services at no charge.

Saturday, 6/21, 9:00-4:00. 629 Camino de los Mares, Suite 104.

(949) 240-1334

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

SURF STUFF WETSUIT FOR SALE Mens Quiksilver full suit, barely used. Size medium $75. Call or text 949.533.9761.

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

From L to R) Earl Magpiong, Glen Magpiong, Joe Tischler and Larry Lowenberg celebrate the finish of a bike ride that started in St. Augustine, Fla. and ended in San Clemente. Photo: Sean Robb

Father and Son Complete Cross Country Ride to Honor Fallen Friend

BY SEAN ROBB, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

fter enduring body numbing elements like sweltering heat and steep-graded hills, a group of cyclists sporting gray scraggly beards rolled into San Clemente on Wednesday, June 11 to honor a fallen friend.

The cyclists, wearing red, white and blue outfits with the phrase “Tour 2 Cure” adorned on the front of their shirts arrived after a bike ride that started in Florida nearly two months ago.

The 3,072-mile long voyage was a charity event called Tour 2 Cure, which helps raise money and awareness for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, ALS. The trip that started in St. Augustine, Fla. on April 23, 2014 was the brainchild of Glen Magpiong, a high school basketball coach from Wellesley, Mass. who lives in San Clemente during the summer. The original idea behind the journey was to complete a father-and-son bike trip across the southern part of the country to help raise awareness of the devastating disease that recently touched close to home.

“I lost a good friend to ALS so I thought I’d send out some emails and see if we can raise awareness because there isn’t a cure.

I thought the little help we could do would be terrific,” Magpiong said.

About a year ago, Magpiong’s good friend and fellow basketball coaching colleague, Paul Seaver, died from ALS. Magpiong’s father, Earl Magpiong, contacted members of the Old Krank Riding Club, a group of cycling enthusiasts of which the elder Magpiong is a member, to see if they wanted to participate in a cross-country trek. Two members, Larry Lowenberg and Joe Tischler, decided they were up for the challenge.

“When Glen called me and asked me on a scale of 1-10 how much I wanted to do a cross-country bike tour, I said 11,” Earl said.

The four bikers completed the coastSan Clemente Times June 19-25, 2014

to-coast journey while two other bikers joined them for the first two weeks. Several more cyclists joined them on the last leg from Carlsbad to San Clemente.

Magpiong was shocked about the overwhelming amount of support they received during their journey.

At first, the team had no expectations for how much money would be raised and said he thought they would receive around $5,000 dollars in donations. As the bikers cruised into the finish line on June 11, over $37,000 dollars had been raised.

All the money donated is going to the ALS Therapy Development Institute, a nonprofit biotechnology organization developing treatments for ALS. “We would just have random people come up to us and donate by giving money or asking where to donate online. No one was like ‘Why are you guys doing this’, or anything like that. It was great,” Magpiong said.

While the Tour 2 Cure group received lots of positive support and enjoyed most of the trip, there were some scary moments.

“I was on the I-10 and I look behind me and there was a truck right there so I had to dive off the road because if I didn’t, I probably would have died,” Lowenberg said.

Magpiong said morale was high throughout the trip and the small amount of complaining always revolved around the intense heat in states like Arizona. But the small pains suffered by the riders served as a reminder for why they were making the trip in the first place.

“Doing this for (victims of) ALS helps you push through, you think this is just one hill or just one hot day. There are people with this disease that have it way worse,” Magpiong said.

To learn more about the Tour 2 Cure and ALS TDI, visit community.als.net/ tour2cure. SC Page 21

SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Schooling the Competition Local surfers dominate at NSSA National Interscholastic Championships

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

F

ive San Clemente-based surfers emerged as national champions at the National Scholastic Surfing Association Interscholastic Championship at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, June 14 through 16.

Shaw Kobayashi earned a national champion title in the college men’s shortboard division, leading his Saddleback College team to victory over second place San Diego State University.

Although San Clemente High School was unseated from their four-year run as national high school champions by Hawaii’s Kamehameha High School and claimed the runner-up spot, SCHS’ Andy Nieblas became the national high school longboard champ. Dana Hills High School came in sixth in team competition.

Shorecliffs Middle School successfully defended their title with their A and B teams earning first and second place finishes, respectively. Shorecliffs’ Nathan Carraba became the middle school boys shortboard champion and Gus Day the middle school longboard champion. Bernice Ayer Middle School’s Alexxa Elseewi took the title in girls shortboard. In team competition, Bernice Ayer landed in third place and Marco Forster Middle School in seventh.

Local middle schools turned in the most successful performances of the event with five of six boys shortboard podium spots being claimed by San Clemente students as well as three of six spots in both the longboard and girls shortboard divisions.

For full results, visit www.sanclementtimes.com. SC

GROM OF THE WEEK

Lexi Alston

Lexi Alston, 12, has only been stand-up paddling competitively since February 1 but is already making waves in the fast-growing sport. After trying it out on a trip to Boston late last year, she asked for a board for Christmas and then took to it like a fish to water.

She now trains with the Paddle Academy in Dana Point, is a junior team rider for Rivera Paddlesurf and has made many successful forays into distance racing. In March, Lexi took first in the 18-mile California Coastal Relay, from Newport Beach the Dana Point Harbor, with relay partner Erika Benitez. In April, Lexi traveled to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina for the Carolina Cup where she earned a secondLexi Alston. place finish. In May she came in first in the women’s division Photo: Jack McDaniel 5-mile race at the Hobie Hennessey Waterman’s Challenge and third for her age group in SUP Surf and the technical course. The Santa Monica Paddleboard Race on June 7 saw her win the 2-mile race and take second in the 5.5-mile, both in the open women’s division. Lexi’s first SUP surf event came last weekend at the Surfing America USA Championships at Church Beach where she finished equal fifth in Girls U18.

“I am going to learn from the pro women in the area like Candice Appleby and try to improve my SUP surfing to that level,” Lexi said. “By next year I want to win the USA Championships.” She is currently training for the Race the Lake of the Sky contest in Lake Tahoe later this month.

In school Lexi is and ‘A’ and ‘B’ sixth-grade student at Bernice Ayer Middle School.

Looking forward to a future of higher education, she has her heart set on staying in California for college.

Although not sure about the course she’ll take toward a career, she is certain that SUP and SUP surf will be a part of her life for as long as she’s able.

“The thing about stand-up paddling is that you can do it until you’re really old,” she said.

—Andrea Swayne

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 65-68 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 8-12’+ fairCatalina: 20-25’ fair-good

Shaw Kobayashi is chaired up the beach after becoming the 2014 NSSA college men’s shortboard champion and leading his Saddleback College surf team to victory at the NSSA National Interscholastic Championships, June 14-16 at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. Photo: Courtesy NSSA

Immediate: A blend of small, easing south/ southeast swell and northwest windswell prevails Thursday. Most spots through Orange County will be in the knee - thigh - waist - high zone then (2-3’), while standout spots produce occasional better sets. By Friday some new south/southwest swell joins in, with a few more sets to waist+ (3’+) for standouts. Morning winds are light/variable to light southerly for most areas, before light+ becoming moderate westerly flow gradually rises up through the mid to late morning into each afternoon.

A marine layer persists along the coast in the early mornings, before skies clear to mostly sunny into each afternoon.

Longer Range Outlook: Slightly better south/ southwest groundswell holds for the weekend, with NW windswell up slightly. More 2-3’+ occ. 4’ waves prevail then at good breaks. Size bumps up a notch further early next week as a new south swell moves in. Typical spring eddy conditions persist. Check out Surfline for more details!

RESULTS NSSA National Interscholastic College, June 14-16, High School and Middle School Championships, Dana Point, Salt Creek Local finishers only. COLLEGE TEAM: 1. Saddleback.

COLLEGE MEN: 1. Shaw Kobayashi-Saddleback; 4.

Jeremy Carter-Saddleback. COLLEGE WOMEN: 3.

Marissa Shaw-SDSU; 4. Danielle Wyman-Saddleback.

COLLEGE LONGBOARD: 3. Chase Stavron-CSUCI; 4.

Dennis White-Saddleback. HIGH SCHOOL TEAM: 2.

San Clemente; 6. Dana Hills. HS VARSITY MEN: 2. Kei Kobayashi-SCHS. HS VARSITY LONGBOARD: 1. Andy Nieblas- SCHS; 4. Kyle Perez-DHHS. MIDDLE SCHOOL TEAM: 1. Shorecliffs A; 2. Shorecliffs B; 3. Bernice Ayer; 7.

Marco Forster. MS BOYS: 1. Nathan Carraba-Shorecliffs; 2. Gunner Day-Shorecliffs; 3. Kade Matson-Shorecliffs; 5. Crosby Colapinto-Bernice Ayer; 6. Jaric Fink-Bernice Ayer. MS GIRLS: 1. Alexxa Elseewi-Bernice Ayer; 2.

Bethany Zalesko-Shorecliffs; 5. Samantha Sibley-Shorecliffs. MS LONGBOARD: 1. Gus Day-Shorecliffs; 2. Noah Atwood-Shorecliffs; 4. Ricky Fodor-Marco Forster.

UPCOMING EVENTS June 17-21: Surfing America USA Championships, San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles (Continuing event that began June 13-15 at Church Beach) June 26-July 3: NSSA National Open, Explorer and Airshow Championships, Huntington Beach, Pier July 12: WSA Menehune Surf Fest, Huntington Beach, Goldenwest Street July 20: California State Games, Camp Pendleton, Del Mar Jetty

Page 22

www.sanclementetimes.com