October 9, 2014

LO C A L

N EWS

October 9–15, 2014

YO U

C A N

U S E

Crib to College: An Educational Guide to Your Child’s Success SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION VOLUME 9, ISSUE 41

Goodbye, George Longtime San Clemente cartoonist passes away at 93 SC LIVING/PAGE 29 Cartoonist George Zeleski created characters and scenes of San Clemente for more than 25 years. Also a fine artist, Zeleski created this self-portrait with some of his creations, “From the Mind of Zeleski.” It remains unfinished. Photo: Jim Shilander

City Council Candidates on the City’s Police and Fire Services EYE ON SC/PAGE 9

San Clemente Paddlers Tops at Salt Creek ‘Battle’ SPORTS/PAGE 37

www.sanclementetimes.com

SCHS Alums Brightening Campus for School’s 50th Anniversary EYE ON SC/PAGE 6

VOTE FOR THE BEST OF SAN CLEMENTE AT SANCLEMENTETIMES.COM

SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

EPA Head Visits City

Five things San Clemente should know this week Hospital Presentation Leads to Hours of Debate THE LATEST: The future of Saddleback MemorialCare’s San Clemente campus has either been decided or has not, depending on what side you were listening to Tuesday, as the San Clemente City Council heard from a number of stakeholders during four hours of testimony.

MemorialCare announced in August that it was studying a proposal to raze the current facility and rebuild it as an urgent care center with increased capabilities for out-patient care. However, that proposal would eliminate the emergency room and acute care, since the state does not allow for an ER without an attached acute-care center. The proposal has drawn strong opposition.

Saddleback doctors told the council that the hospital’s parent company is already offering employees termination packages. They also charged that equipment, including hospital beds, is being moved to the company’s Laguna Beach campus in preparation for a move.

Steve Cullen, a physician, charged that the company “made a promise they did not keep,” when they purchased the hospital, to upgrade it and keep it viable.

Company officials denied any decision to close the hospital had been made, saying it was making efforts to retain doctors during the uncertainty. Any move of beds or equipment was reflective of a lower patient population in San Clemente and the need to allocate resources where they would be better used, officials said.

The proposal is not a fait accompli, said Steve Geidt of MemorialCare. The hospital’s board had only authorized a study, he noted. The proposal did, however, reflect a “new reality” for small hospitals nationally, he said, due to fewer patients being admitted into acute care.

WHAT’S NEXT: Saddleback officials said the board will decide the hospital’s future at a March meeting. Should it opt to close the acute-care facility, the county would then examine the impact on emergency services within 90 days of the notice of closure.

The council, while not taking formal action, did indicate a willingness to join an ad hoc committee facilitated by the South Orange County Economic Coalition. The San Clemente Times October 9-15, 2014

EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy (left) visited San Clemente Monday to discuss watershed protection with the Surfrider Foundation. Photo: Jim Shilander

hospital will also be an agenda item for the council through the remainder of the year.

– Jim Shilander

Early Council Filings Reveal Support THE LATEST: The first campaign finance filings of the 2014 City Council race were available Monday, and although not every San Clemente candidates’ statements were included, there are some interesting items in the filings of the four candidates who submitted reports.

Current city Councilwoman Lori Donchak has raised the most funds, $16,466— mainly in smaller, local contributions. Her list of contributors, however, also includes $1,000 from CR&R, the city’s trash utility, $1,000 from San Clemente-based Trafix Devices, $500 from Disney Worldwide and $750 from the California Real Estate Political Action Committee. Donchak had expenditures of only $7,859 in the filing period, from July 1 to Sept 30.

Former Councilman Jim Dahl reported raising $10,002 in the period, spending $9,158. Dahl’s largest contributor was the Orange County Association of Realtors, which gave $5,000. The remainder came from city residents, with the exception of one Dana Point contributor.

Kathy Ward made the largest personal loan to a campaign of any of the candidates during the filing period, $4,000, which supplements $6,588 in funds raised. She raised $1,000 from Pacific Corporate Consultants of San Juan Capistrano, $1,000 from resident Gary Hopp and $1,000 from Trafix Devices, as well as $500 from company president Jack Kulp. Pacific Corporate Consultants is the company run by former City Council candidate Charles Mann.

Mikii Rathmann had raised the smallest amount, $1,498, of which only $431 was spent. $1,000 of that came from Robert Alter of Corona del Mar.

WHAT’S NEXT: Candidates are required to file a second disclosure statement Oct. 23. As of press time, the City Clerk’s office had not received statements from Mayor Tim Brown or Ricardo “Rick” Nicol. —JS

West Nile in South County?

THE LATEST: After months of warnings about a spike in mosquitoes and birds testing positive for West Nile virus in other areas in Orange County, it appears the problem may have finally moved its way south.

Jim Dahl, former San Clemente city councilman and the city’s representative on the Orange County Vector Control Board, told the current council Tuesday that mosquitoes in south Orange and northern San Diego counties recently tested positive for the virus.

Mosquitoes at both the San Mateo Basin, near the county line, and former municipal skeet shooting range, close to Camp Pendleton, returned positive West Nile results.

Nearly 200 cases of the virus have been reported in the county this year, though none in San Clemente. Four of those diagnosed have died.

WHAT’S NEXT: Dahl said the San Diego Vector Control District was charged with clearing the San Mateo Basin, which it was scheduled to do this week.

Residents are encouraged to eliminate sources of standing water on their property that can be a spawning place for mosquitoes. Dead birds should also be reported to the Vector Control District at 949.654.2421. Residents should not handle the birds directly.

FIND OUT MORE: For more on the virus, www.ocvcd.org. – JS

Page 3

THE LATEST: The San Clemente– based Surfrider Foundation got a visit Monday from the nation’s top environmental official.

Gina McCarthy, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency visited the San Clemente Pier and the foundation’s headquarters as part of an effort to raise awareness of a proposed EPA Waters of the United States rule change that would alter the definition of headwaters to include more rivers, streams and wetlands.

“If you want to have healthy coastlines, if you want to have healthy oceans, you’ve got to have healthy rivers and streams to have coastlines like this stay healthy and stay vibrant,” McCarthy said. “We’re trying to plug that gap.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Rick Erkeneff of Surfrider spoke to McCarthy about the organization’s effort to protect San Mateo Creek during the debate over the 241 Toll Road extension. He also compared the state of the beaches near Trestles favorably to the effects of a lack of sediment flow from San Juan creek on San Clemente’s beaches.

The organization also talked about some of its local efforts to ban polystyrene packaging. – JS

SC Library Update THE LATEST: After failing to find a suitable temporary spot for the Orange County Public Library’s San Clemente branch, the county is closer to bringing a book mobile to town.

Councilwoman Lori Donchak, who attended a recent meeting of the County Library Board, said the book mobile would likely come to Vista Hermosa Sports Park and have a WiFi hotspot.

WHAT’S NEXT: Donchak told the council Tuesday she had learned the ongoing construction at the library, which closed the building in June and is expected to take a year, had already incurred a $60,000 overrun due to the discovery of termites in the building.

A new project manager has come onto the project after the previous one left. She asked that the city monitor the project’s finances closely, noting San Clemente was now paying into the county library system and not receiving any services.

Councilman Jim Ever t expressed frustration with the county’s handling of the project, noting that construction was promised to follow the city vacating the senior center, nearly three years ago.

“What a disaster these people are,” Evert said.– JS www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES

Assistance League Partners With Target for School Giveaway

1,100 children from 27 schools in the Capistrano Unified School District.

The Assistance League partnered with Target in San Clemente, where approximately 20 volunteers worked each session along with Target staff. Additionally, middle and high school student volunteers, the Assisteens, worked and provided hygiene kits for each student.

The Assistance League provided $65 for each elementary school student and $75 for each middle school student to purchase clothing consisting of tops, bottoms, socks, underwear and a jacket. Students also received a $15 giftcard to Payless.

The local chapter’s program is part of the National Assistance League’s Operation School Bell Program.

This year, $85,000 was budgeted and nearly 1,100 children were served. This program is funded by money from the Bargain Box Thrift Store which is located at 526 N. El Camino Real. Another major fundraiser for this program is the Christmas Home Tour which will take place on Sunday, Dec. 7.

For more information on the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley, or to purchase tickets for the home tour, visit www. capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org or call 949.492.2800.

On seven evenings during the months of September and October, volunteers from the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley provided school clothing to nearly

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

COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER AND BRIAN PARK

Cameron Brown Concert at SCHS Oct. 16 The San Clemente High School Triton Vocal Arts program will host the 2014 Cameron Brown Memorial Concert Thursday, Oct.16 at 7 p.m. at the Triton Center, located at 700 Avenida Pico. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors or $7 for adults.

They can be purchased at the door.

Cameron Brown, a 1989 SCHS graduate and Vocal Arts member, passed away in 1999 from Ewing’s Sarcoma—a rare bone cancer. The annual event will honors Brown’s life and attendees enjoy a night of musical entertainment.

This concert will present folk and classical music from the 20th and 21st centuries and include all five choral ensembles, including the newest, Bel Canto. Vocal and instrumental soloists will also perform.

Proceeds raised go toward a scholarship fund for graduating seniors who plan to study music in college.

SCHS Dance Team to Make Season Debut The newest edition of the San Clemente

News Next Door

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO A developer proposing to build a retirement community on one of San Juan Capistrano’s last remaining agricultural properties will have to seek approval from the City Council without the Planning Commission’s favor.On Sept. 30, the commission voted 2-1 to reject an environmental impact report for Spieker Senior Development’s Laguna Glen project.

Although the study found the project would have little to no impact, Commissioners Sheldon Cohen and Roy Nunn didn’t buy it. Commissioner Ian Gardiner supported the project.

Commissioner Tim Neely was absent. Commissioner Evan Chaffee recused.

DANA POINT The Dana Point Planning Commission on Monday voted 2-2 on a mixed-use development proposed by Majestic Housing and Development LLC for the Town Center/Lantern District. Commissioners April O’Connor and Susan Whittaker voted to approve. Commissioners Gary Newkirk and Norm Denton opposed. Commissioner Liz Claus recused due to the close proximity of her home. According to city policy, a tie vote constitutes a denial.

The project, which called for 30,000 square feet of retail space and 111 residential units to be built on seven lots, received criticism due to requested variances running contrary to the Town Center Plan.

San Clemente Times October 9-15, 2014

The Assistance League of Capistrano Valley had volunteers collect school supplies for nearly 1,100 children in the Capistrano Unified School District in September and October. Photo: Courtesy

High School Dance Team began their season even before last year’s school year ended with “New Team Tuesdays” on the high school campus.

Practices and camps continued throughout the summer. The dancers made their now annual trip to Glendale High School to train in hip hop and reciprocate by training their team in contemporary and lyrical dancing. Training continued as the team had a two-week intensive camp before school started.

The group’s next community service event and season debut will be participa-

Community Meetings THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9

Southern California Edison Community Engagement Panel 6 p.m. San Juan

Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion. www.songscommunity.com.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

Mayor’s Walk 10 a.m. Marblehead

Coastal Residential Property, Avenida Vista Hermosa. More information at 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 14

Southern California Edison Community Engagement Panel 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Special meeting at San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino Del Avion. www.songscommunity.com.

Beaches, Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting 6 p.m. San Clemente

Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, www.san-clemente.org.

Page 4

tion in the Red Ribbon Parade on Monday, Oct. 20, where the dance team will be performing at the conclusion of the parade at the Community Center.

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY STEVE SOHANAKI

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.

Tuesday, October 7 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Via Barracuda, 500 Block (2:24 a.m.) A woman told police she was scared there was someone in her apartment because she heard something move behind the door.

The woman waited outside her apartment for deputies to arrive.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Monterey, 200 Block (1:41 a.m.) A woman said her boyfriend was “nagging her to the point that she can’t sleep.” The woman said two children also live in the residence.

Monday, October 6 DRUNK IN PUBLIC El Avenida Palizada/ El Camino Real (11:12 p.m.) A man with long curly hair was drunk and “trying to start problems” in front of a 7-Eleven.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Paseo Vista, 100 Block (9:35 p.m.) A caller reported seeing four people inside of a silver sedan possibly drinking.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Avenida Calafia, 200 Block (7:02 p.m.) Lifeguards told police they were with a woman who claimed to have been drugged by her friends and was under the influence and paranoid.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 600 Block (6:39 p.m.) A man told deputies he gave some change to a homeless woman and then she stole his wallet.

WELFARE CHECK Avenida Del Mar, 200 Block (4:57 p.m.) A caller from Michigan asked police to check in on her sister who was “extremely drunk” and was “becoming belligerent.”

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (2:01 p.m.) A woman who appeared to be homeless was asking a man for money and then threw change at his car.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (8:02 a.m.) A homeless woman was giving the wrong name while checking in at the emergency room and attemptPage 5

ing to reach over the counter to grab the computer.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2300 Block (6:13 a.m.) A caller reported seeing a 76 gas station worker pushing his manager.

The two appeared to be in an altercation.

DISTURBANCE Calle Del Cerro, 1100 Block (4:48 a.m.) A caller told police his son recently assaulted his wife. The son was sleeping at the time of the call.

Sunday, October 5 DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares (2:01 p.m.) An apparently homeless woman was propositioning male customers for money in front of Starbucks and Ralphs.

She refused to leave the area when asked to do so.

DISTURBANCE—MUSIC OR PARTY Escalones, 200 Block (10:22 p.m.) A caller reported neighbors having a loud party and “screaming vulgarities” from their balcony.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Pico/El Camino Real (9:33 p.m.) A female Domino’s Pizza employee told police someone was harassing her at work.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Palizada, 300 Block (8:38 p.m.) A man told police he was in a verbal argument with his ex-wife and she was refusing to leave.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares (7:54 p.m.) An apparently homeless woman was in front of a Starbucks harassing customers, swearing at them and ordering them to leave.

PATROL CHECK Calle Valle, 1300 Block (4:20 p.m.) A caller reported that a swarm of bees chased their granddaughter and requested police check the area.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Estrella, 500 Block (2:23 p.m.) A homeless woman outside of a USA gas station asked a customer if she had a gun.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Mastil, 2400 Block (2:21 p.m.) A caller told police that her neighbor’s son threatened her for reporting his drug activity.

WELFARE CHECK Avenida Serra, 200 Block (2:01 p.m.) A caller asked police to check on a neighbor across the street who had not answered her phone for a week.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Canada, 100 Block (1:26 p.m.) A woman told police there were two men in her garage who she didn’t know and she wanted them to leave.

WELFARE CHECK Avenida Pico, 500 Block (1:14 p.m.) A woman was passed out at the bottom of the stairs of the San Clemente post office. The caller was unsure whether the woman was breathing or not. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

A ‘Monumental’ Remembrance

Alums supporting effort to beautify SCHS campus with lawn restoration, statue

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

H

omecoming is always a special time for high schools, but this year’s celebration at San Clemente High School is monumental.

A team of alumni, parents and administrators are trying to leave a permanent mark on SCHS as it celebrates its 50th anniversary during the 2014-2015 school year.

Beginning earlier this year, members of the SCHS 50th anniversary committee began planning ways to leave their mark, again, on the history of the school. This included restoration of the “senior quad” area as well as the installation of a monument statue commemorating the school’s 50th birthday.

Valerie Woodstra, said the project began in February.

“I felt like I should get the ball rolling,” Woodstra, president of the school’s PTSA, said. “I kept saying, I can’t be the chair of this, we need to have someone else. I’m still the chair.”

Since then, a small group has met consistently at least once a month to plan both a celebration, which will include all classes, at Friday’s game against Capistrano Valley and something that could be left behind.

“We all agreed that we wanted to commemorate something in a permanent way,” Woodstra said. “Not just to be some event that was over, but one that could last, that generations could look at and remember the 50th.”

Woodstra said a core group of 10 to 15 have been the prime movers on the project, though that number has changed as “life” happened around them. Barry Berg, a member of the inaugural class of 1965, was involved until the summer, when he moved to the Central Coast, for example.

In addition to the construction of the monument, the committee worked with the Capistrano Unified School District on plans to add “curb appeal” to the school.

This included the installation reconstruction of the senior quad near the current band room at the front of the school, which had been lost as the building changed and grew.

“We wanted a place where the kids could hang out that wasn’t just concrete and benches,” Woodstra said. “We wanted grass and trees and plants.”

The district had already planned to do some work on the school over the summer, but added to it by removing some of the asphalt. The area is now grassy again.

Picnic tables and benches are still to come as funds become available.

The group is about halfway to its $25,000 goal to pay for a bronze statue of Triton, the Greek god that provides the school with its mascot.

San Clemente Times October 9-15, 2014

Members of the San Clemente High School 50th Anniversary Memorial Committee and SCHS Principal Michael Halt at the new monument at the school which will soon include a statue commemorating the school’s golden anniversary. Photo: Jim Shilander

The Triton monument is also in place on the northern side of the building but is still waiting for the placement of a statue inside. It will be covered in stone and tile, purchased by an alum, Randy Moore.

When the statue is finished another graduate, Carl Eissman, will perform the installation. And Bill Limebrook, class of 1976, designed and will create the monument. His first sculpture work was done at SCHS when his art teacher asked if anyone wanted to work with limestone and he raised his hand.

“You think of a mighty ocean king, a great mythological group of people,” Limebrook said.

The homecoming events themselves will kick off with the traditional parade down Avenida Del Mar Friday at 3 p.m.

All classes will be invited to a special tent before the game. Special events include invitations to all past homecoming queens.

The alumni have been working closely with the school’s Associated Student Body to organize the events.

The effort’s website, www.schs50th. com, also includes a running tally of the monetary contributions by different classes. The leaders, by a wide margin, are the class of 1975.

Wendy Yoder, who was homecoming queen for that class, said the effort has been very exciting.

“I don’t think we could have done it without Facebook,” Yoder said. “I think we’ve reached most people that way. We’ve had a pretty good response.”

Yoder said the process to create as statue will likely take four to six months.

The alumni are targeting having the statue up by graduation.

SCHS Principal Michael Halt said the effort was a good one for the school’s current students to see. The Homecoming week theme, “A Tribute Through the Decades,” Page 6

pays homage to the school’s anniversary.

“It shows our entire community’s commitment to our school,” Halt said. “The students love being a part of this school, but this type of event shows that connection. They’re excited to see it.”

Halt said he’s gotten to know many alumni better through the effort. The

“reincarnation” of the senior lawn, he said, was a signal to students that things were going to be special.

“Everybody could see something different was going to happen this year for our celebration,” Halt said. “It shows it’s not just about this year, but about honoring what’s happened for a long, long time.” SC

EYE ON SC

Police, Fire and the Budget Candidates on ways to pay for public safety contract increases

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

he candidates for San Clemente City Council were asked five questions about issues facing the city during the upcoming term. The following is the second set of answers. The remainder will run weekly until Oct. 23. A seventh candidate, Fred Olsen, will appear on the ballot, but he withdrew his candidacy on Aug. 20 and thus will not be a part of the weekly questioning.

The candidates’ statements are presented unedited.

This week’s question: The city faces ongoing increases in public safety costs. This past year, council actually debated where, not whether, a Sheriff’s officer position would be cut.

How should the city prioritize its future public safety funding?

Jim Dahl Public Safety funding has been a continuing saga for San Clemente, since the city decided to abolish our own Fire and Police Departments in the early 90’s. The Orange County Fire Authority and the Orange County Sheriffs Department have given fine service to the city since the decision was made. The Fire Authority’s funding has been very stable with long-term contracts for Fire/Paramedic service.

The Sheriff has for some reason decided to have only short-term agreements.

These agreements have over the years caused reduction in service to our community. In the next negotiations sessions with the Sheriff the council should participate in these negotiations with an add hoc

committee of City Council members. By doing so the council can explore ways of providing better service to our community with long term contracts.

As the economy starts to rebound and property tax and sales tax increases stability will return to our budget.

Kathleen Ward Our public safety is contracted with Orange County Fire Authority and Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

We must always staff the level of service necessary to provide safety to the public and to our safety personnel, but it must be funded in a fiscally responsible manner.

Lori Donchak Budget Priority #1: Police and Fire Services. San Clemente expects and deserves high levels of public safety, and as a result we’re recognized as one of 100 safest U.S. cities. For the third year, we’ve had a downward trend in crime. Additional ambulance service was added this year.

Also recently approved by city council are plans to continue to improve emergency response times for both police and fire, sustained commitment to the gang injunction, and graffiti abatement.

Continued coordination to ensure public safety during SONGS decommissioning is essential. Without question, traffic safety will continue to be front and center during upcoming road construction.

I’m committed to active dialogue with OCSD and OCFA. San Clemente is a county-contract city, and it’s at the county level that ways to meaningfully contain costs without hurting essential services are greatest.

Mikii Rathmann Public safety funding should be a top priority for the city of San Clemente.

Over the next year we will see an increase in visitors to San Clemente with the opening of the outlet mall. We will also see an increase to our population with the completion of the homes at Marblehead Coastal, and the completion of the Cotton’s Point Senior Apartments. It is important to have the resources available to respond quickly, and with the necessary expertise, in an emergency.

Additionally, we currently do not know the outcome of the potential changes in the facilities at our local hospital. With the possibility that the emergency room could be downgraded to an urgent care, we need to be prepared to have services available to transport critical patients to nearby hospitals.

Ricardo “Rick” Nicol Last year, the sheriff’s department proposed a police services budget that was designed to keep pace with our growing public safety requirements. San Clemente’s population is growing. The outlet mall will bring in more visitors.

Construction on the I-5 and La Pata present major traffic control challenges. Drug abuse and crime are not going away.

The council, citing monetary constraints, rejected the proposal and finally approved a substantially reduced police services budget. During the same period of time, the council approved the hiring of an assistant city manager with money that could have been used to hire one, and maybe two, additional deputies.

Government’s primary function is to ensure the public’s safety. If elected, I will not fund bureaucracy at the expense

of police services. I will vote to give law enforcement the resources they need to meet future challenges. I have been endorsed by former Chief of Police Services, Bill Hunt.

Tim Brown Recently rated as one of the 100 safest cities in America, San Clemente benefits from strong leadership and service from OC Sheriffs, OC Fire Authority and city staff who are focused on making San Clemente safer every day. Every year, the City Council faces the challenge of funding and prioritizing public safety while keeping the budget balanced—no easy task. When faced with a 6% increase in the OC Sheriffs contract this past year, the City and Sheriffs had to work collaboratively to balance those expenses without affecting service levels.

If costs escalate to unsustainable levels, the City must be vigilant to find creative ways to mitigate the effects while keeping the budget balanced. Our stellar RSVP volunteer program that saved San Clemente millions in its 30+ years can be expanded.

Council can also continue to support OC Sheriffs in their efforts to expand the neighborhood watch programs and re-launch the Sheriff’s Academy, which engage residents to contribute to safer neighborhoods.

Next week’s question: The city’s new General Plan reflects a new reality for San Clemente. The city is built out, and aside from the Outlets at San Clemente, most growth will be in-fill. The plan includes a number of specific ideas for different focus areas throughout the city. How aggressively should the city look to see these plans develop?

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: Nonprofit Spotlight by Suzanne Ansari

A Day of Joy for Specialneeds Kids

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR

Fish for Life inspires, teaches children how to fish

D

o you remember catching your first fish?

I can still feel the tug on my fishing line, the thrill of reeling and wondering what kind of fish I caught. I was 9 years old on a small lake in Illinois when I caught my first fish, a tiny blue gill. I was afraid to touch it.

My little brother, on the dock in a wheelchair, helped me take it off the hook.

Fishing was a respite from the hospital and needles. That memory still brings great joy.

Fish for Life, a south Orange Countybased nonprofit, was founded to bring joy and introduce fishing to children with special needs. They seek to enhance the lives of special needs individuals by providing love and inspiration while teaching kids how to fish during free half-day fishing trips.

“I have a friend who has cerebral palsy,” said Fish for Life founder Jim Holden. “I asked him what he really wanted to do and he said, ‘I would love to go fishing.’ The lights went off, bells rang and I thought ‘Let’s go big, rent a boat, red carpet treatment with special guests,’” Holden said.

“That’s how Fish for Life started.”

For 30 special-needs children and young adults ages 8 to 25, catching their first fish

PUBLISHER’S LETTER:

By Norb Garrett

Goodbye Dear Friend

I

t was with immense sadness that we learned of the passing of SC Times illustrator George Zeleski this week, on Tuesday, Sept. 30.

George has been providing illustrations capturing the heartbeat of San Clemente ever since we launched the paper back in 2006, and we were extremely proud to feature his work for all of these years.

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Susie Lantz, 949.388.7700, x111 slantz@sanclementetimes.com The Sept. 20 Fish for Life trip with special needs kids prepares to take off on the Dana Pride boat for a half day of fishing and life long memories. Photo: Courtesy of Suzanne Ansari

was a special memory made possible during the Sept. 20 Fish for Life trip aboard the rented Dana Pride vessel operated by Dana Wharf Sportfishing.

“There are so many fish in the sea, it’s like one of those wheels you spin and you don’t know what you’ll get, but I expect to catch a few fish today,” said Simon Huntington, a 10-year-old with autism from San Clemente.

Huntington was paired with 90-year-old John Jocker, a volunteer who helped him catch the first fish of the trip.

“It’s a blessing to teach kids how to fish and see them happy and fishing on their own,” Jocker said.

All participants and chaperones enjoyed special VIP red carpet introductions. They were each assigned a fishing team leader who taught them how to bait, hook and catch fish.

“This trip will inspire you and this won’t be your last day fishing,” said Carrie Wilson, a marine biologist with the California Department of Fish and Game. Wilson gave participants fishing passports and

One of the sweetest human beings, George’s visits to our office to drop off his artwork were always a special moment for all of us lucky enough to have worked with him. His wife Marilyn would drive George over and he would come in and talk over ideas for the next illustration, always eager with that child-like anticipation of drawing something special and unique.

George, we’ll miss you around here.

Thanks for the memories and for providing many years of entertainment for us here in San Clemente. Our thoughts and prayers are with George’s wife, Marilyn, his family and friends.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 105 N La Esperanza in San Clemente.

stamps to identify the type of fish they caught.

Barracuda, bonito, kelp bass, lingcod, mackerel and yellow-tail tuna were some kinds of fish caught during the Fish for Life trip, sponsored by Amigos de los Niño’s.

“The ultimate goal is to create positive memories for kids and parents and a safe haven for them to be loved and not judged,” Holden said.

The next Fish for Life trip is Oct. 18 in Dana Point. Contact www.fishforlife.org or call 949.285.8819 for more information or to volunteer. Sponsors are also needed to fund additional fishing trips to continue to spread the love one boat at a time.

Suzanne Ansari is the coordinator of the Community Resource Center of San Clemente. She currently serves on the San Clemente Collaborative Leadership, Youth and Senior Affairs Committees. 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

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

Nancy Sutherland of the city’s Human Affairs Committee will be this week’s guest. She will discuss the city’s new “San Clemente Village” program for senior citizens. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Jim Shilander every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.

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

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

EDITORIAL

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne

Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick

City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

OPERATIONS

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN

Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes

Finance Director > Mike Reed

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jacqueline DeMarco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent

San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 41. 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

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.

Page 10

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

On Stage at the Coach House: Asia

EDITOR’S PICK

COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 09 CASA UP CLOSE—DANA GIOIA 7 p.m. Dana Gioia is an internationally acclaimed, award-winning poet, writer and served as the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts. He will speak on the “idea of beauty” and will read selections from his poetry. General admission $12. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

STORY TIME WITH THE NCL SUNSHINE READERS 7 p.m. Join the National Charity League in our alternative location while the San Clemente library is under renovation. Reading, snacks and fun for kids of all ages. Pacific Coast Church, 2651 Calle Frontera, San Clemente.

Friday | 10 NORTH BEACH ART WALK 6 p.m. The Art Walk will begin at Artwistic Creations (near El Portal) and progress down the hill on North El Camino Real.

It will end with the official after party headquarters at Knuckleheads Sports Bar (Avenida Pico and El Camino Real).

Participating Businesses include: Artwistic Creations, T. Patterson Surfboards, The Mint Gallery, Bull Taco, San Clemente Art Supply AKA Green Flash Gallery, The Riders Club, Noll Surfboards Gallery and Knuckleheads sports bar after party from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Attendees must be over 21 to attend the after party.

MIKE HAMILTON 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Enjoy live music at Salt Creek Grille each Friday with guitarist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Mike Hamilton. 32802 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949. 661.7799, www.mikehamiltonmusic.com.

Saturday | 11 ECO-COMEDY DOCUMENTARY FILM 6:30 p.m. A screening of the eco-comedy documentary “How to Boil a Frog,” about the planet’s limited resources and what people can do to save the planet. San Juan Mobile Estates, 32302 Alipaz St., #267, San Juan Capistrano. To RSVP, call 949.493.4647 or email jclark@amcat.org.

THEO & THE ZYDECO PATROL 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s.

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

Courtesy photo

T

OCTOBER 9–12: CARNIVAL COLOSSAL Thursday through Sunday. Friends of San Clemente Foundation will be hosting this family event at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. This year’s events include a daily Food Truck Festival and Scottish Strong Man competition. The Carnival runs 5 p.m. - to 10 p.m.

Thursday, 5 p.m.-Midnight Friday, Noon-Midnight Saturday and Noon-10 p.m. Sunday.

Information on tickets can be found at www.sanclementeparksfoundation.org.

aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. Prices vary depending on the vessel. Call for more information.

24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

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

B-SIDE PLAYERS WITH CITY REEF 9 p.m. Nine-piece band plays at OC Tavern. Tickets $10. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

Tuesday | 14

Sunday | 12 COMMUNITY TABLE SUNDAY BRUNCH 11 a.m.-1:30 pm. Brunch at The Ecology Center includes custom menu showcasing seasonal dishes, food from Cook Pigs Ranch and fruit and vegetables from the center’s own gardens. $55 for members, $65 for non-members. Proceeds support the center’s sustainability programs and operations. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano. For tickets or more info, visit www.theecologycenter.org.

J MANN 2 p.m. Music at BeachFire. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

Monday | 13 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Get up close to marine life

SOUTH ORANGE COUNTY TOASTMASTERS MEETING 7 p.m.-8:40 p.m. Practice becoming a more confident communicator.

Occurs every Tuesday. Dana Point Community House, 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point. 949.280.9777, 3944816.toastmastersclubs.org.

Wednesday | 15 CAPO BEACH FARMERS MARKET 3 p.m.–7 p.m. Visit the area’s latest weekly market where locally-grown, organic produce and regional artisans are featured.

Capo Beach Church, 25975 Domingo Ave., 949.573.5033, www.danapoint.org.

TAP TAKE OVER 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Microbrews from Greenflash Brewery. Live music provided by Brian Young Blues Band. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Page 12

he British progressive rock band ASIA is coming to the Coach House on Thursday, Oct. 16.

The group is currently in the middle of their world tour and making their way through the country. They are performing songs from their latest album “Gravitas” and playing off their well-known hits from their past four albums, like “Heat of the Moment” and “Sole Survivor.”

Since 1981 ASIA has gone through multiple iterations. The members currently on tour are John Wetton on lead vocals and bass, Carl Palmer on drums, Geoff Downes (keyboards) and newest member Sam Coulson (guitar).

The new album and tour gives the band the opportunity to introduce their new man, Coulson “He is really working out,” said drummer Carl Palmer. “He provides a new edge that we’re very happy with. With the addition of Sam it allowed us to take the band in a slightly different, and perhaps tougher, direction.”

Asia will be making their way to the United Kingdom after their last U.S. performance in Solana Beach on Oct. 20.

ASIA’s 14th studio album “Gravitas” was released on March 25 and is available on iTunes.

Watch ASIA at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano, on Oct. 16. Tickets cost $49.

Dinner reservations with priority seating are also available. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m.

For tickets or more information, go to www.thecoachhouse.com or call 949.496.8930.—Catherine Manso

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

As you open this special section, you may be asking yourself, “What is Crib to College?” The name is just as it sounds. This is a resource guide that can be utilized throughout a child’s life—literally from crib to college. On the pages of Picket Fence Media’s second annual Crib to College issue, you will find stories, columns and tips from teachers, parents, counselors and experts on saving for your child’s future, preparing for kindergarten, fostering scientific passions, talking to teens about drugs, transitioning to high school and more. So, travel the road from crib to college and check some items off the list along the way.

Investing Early, Wisely for College

BY TAMMY McKENNON, EDWARD JONES FINANCIAL ADVISOR

School is back in session. If you have school-age children, you’re probably busy getting them acclimated to another year of hitting the books. But the school years go by quickly, so it won’t be long before your kids are ready to head off to college. Will you be financially prepared to help them?

It’s certainly a challenge, especially given the rising costs of higher education.

Consider these figures from the College Board: For

the 2011–2012 school year, the average cost (including tuition, fees, room and board) was $17,131 per year for an in-state student attending a public, fouryear college or university. For a student attending a private fouryear school, the comparable average cost was $38,589 annually.

And these numbers are likely to increase in the years ahead.

So, what can you do to help meet the high costs of higher education? For starters, you need to save and invest—early and often. You’ll also want to choose investments that are particularly well-suited for college. Here are a few suggestions:

529 PLAN

When you invest in a 529 plan, all withdrawals will be free from federal income taxes as long as the money is used for a qualified college expense for your child or grandchild. However, non-qualified withdrawals may be subject to federal, state and penalty taxes. Contribution limits are quite high, so in all likelihood, you’ll be able to put as much as you want into a 529 plan although you generally can’t exceed the annual gift tax exclusion, which was $13,000 per beneficiary in 2012. Furthermore, if you participate in the 529 plan, your contributions may be tax deductible on your state taxes.

COVERDELL EDUCATION SAVINGS ACCOUNT

Depending on your income level, you can contribute up to $2,000 annually to a Coverdell Education Savings Account (ESA). Your Coverdell earnings and withdrawals will be tax-free, provided you use the money for qualified education expenses. Any non-education withdrawals from a Coverdell ESA may be subject to a 10 percent penalty. You can place these contributions into virtually any investment you choose—stocks, bonds, certificates of deposit, etc.

A positive pregnancy test comes with a flood of emotions and a multitude of questions.

Feelings of anxiety, joy, fear, concern, ecstasy, elation, apprehension and others set in. Inquiries about morning sickness, diet, exercise, weight gain, fetal development, birthing options and others abound. And as the baby and belly grow, the nursery begins to take shape and the due date countdown narrows, questions about the cost of diapers, clothing, formula, child care, schooling and college arise. But the cost of raising a child isn’t limited solely to finances. Costs come in the form of sleepless nights, diaper changes, overtime, sick days, hectic family vacations, school plays, lunch dates, swim lessons, scraped knees, first dates, heart breaks, driver’s licenses, college applications and dorm room days—all rewarded with years of memories that cannot be affixed with a monetary value. If you are expecting, expecting to be expecting or have a little one at home, this information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture gives a snap-shot estimate of the financial costs of raising a child born in 2013.

What’s It Cost to Raise a Child?

$261,330 Estimated Cost of Raising a Child on the West Coast

$245,340 National Average Estimated Cost of Raising a Child *ESTIMATES DO NOT INCLUDE THE COST OF COLLEGE

HOW THE FUNDS GET SPENT

THE YEARLY BREAKDOWN (COST PER YEAR)

0-2 Years Old

$12,940 6-8 Years Old

$12,800 15-17 Years Old

$14,970

Housing

Food

30%

16%

Transportation

14%

ZERO COUPON BONDS

A zero coupon bond is priced at a discount to its principal or face value. You receive the principal value when the bond matures. So you could purchase a zero coupon bond that matures in the year your child is ready to go to college. Although you won’t receive regular interest payments throughout the life of the zero coupon bond, you’ll still be liable for the taxes on this interest. Therefore, consult with your tax advisor before purchasing a zero coupon bond.

These investments have proven popular among parents and grandparents. However, you’ll need to consult with your financial advisor to determine which college-savings vehicles are appropriate for your needs. But don’t wait too long—because before you know it, today’s grade-schoolers will be packing for their college dorms.

Follow your child’s journey from crib to college and check items off as you travel the road through life.

Clothing

6%

Health Care Child Care & Education

8%

18%

Misc.

8%

FIGURES PROVIDED BY THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, WWW.CNPP.USDA.GOV.

Start planning for your child’s future Discuss child names alongside financial goals

Practice healthy habits to share with your child

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Bridging the Gap: Why Communicating with Infants and Toddlers Matters

Locate your desk, wall or smart phone calendar and mark down these free weekly and monthly activities at the Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano libraries.

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

Studies say by the age of 3 children from lower-income families hear roughly 30 million fewer words than their more affluent counterparts—it’s become known as the “word gap.”

A recent study by researchers from Stanford University published in Developmental Science (“SES differences in language processing skill and vocabulary are evident at 18 months,” March 2013) found that by 18 months, children from different socioeconomic groups displayed dramatic vocabulary disparities. The psychologists found that by 2 years of age the gap in language development widened.

To investigate the vocabulary and language processing speed of children, Anne Fernald, an associate professor of psychology at Stanford, enrolled 20 children living near the university campus, all 18 months old, in an experiment. Children were tested on how quickly and accurately they identified objects based on verbal cues. Fernald then expanded the experiment to a town north of campus where the median income and education levels are lower. She reevaluated all participants six months later—at 24 months old.

The experiment was then broad-

Every child develops in their own time.

At five months your child may not have rolled over, while at 10 months another is walking unassisted. The same goes for sleeping through the night, potty training and a gamut of other benchmarks your child will encounter throughout their lives.

Teachers at Nobis Preschool understand that. It’s why they structure curriculum around their students’ level of learning, interests and talents. The syllabus is ever changing.

“Our philosophy stays the same as far as wanting to do the best for children and their families, providing the best environment for them and giving them exposure to things they need to

the Dana Point Library for a half-hour full of fun stories and activities, first for toddlers and then for preschoolers. No need to register.

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME 11:15 a.m. Join the San Juan Capistrano Library for a fun- and story-filled event for children ages 3 to 6 and their caregivers. Enjoy stories, songs, crafts and more. No registration is required.

MONDAY

Photo: iStockphoto.com/befa

ened. Using pictures, instructions and tracking eye responses, researchers tested the language processing of 18- and 24-month-old toddlers. While sitting on a caregiver’s lap, they were shown familiar objects on a screen and a recorded voice identified one of the objects. Researchers filmed each child’s eye movement and noted which picture they looked at and the processing time.

They found children from a higher socioeconomic background identified the object faster. Research revealed that 2-year-old children from poorer families were likely already six months

behind their wealthier peers in language development and proficiency.

To help children build their vocabularies, the National Association for the Education of Young Children recommends the following: • Incorporate new, interesting words in natural conversation.

• Utilize gestures and facial expressions to help kids make sense of these newly introduced words.

• Communicate with children and encourage talking with others.

• Read to children daily and go over new words together.

develop to the next step,” said Shauna Bogert, director of Nobis Preschool in Capistrano Beach.

From infant to toddler and preschool to Pre-K instruction, the faculty at Nobis is constantly educating themselves and seeking out new methods and changing child-development practices to ensure each of their students is learning the best way they possibly can.

“We try desperately not to lose focus of the individual,” Bogert said.

“In education, there is so much focus on meeting a standard that we are not meeting needs of individual children.

We want to make sure that we never lose sight of the fact that every person is an individual, has different gifts and

Read to your child daily

FAMILY STORYTIME 6:30 p.m. Get into the fun once a month as the Sunshine Readers host family story time at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Upcoming dates for 2014 include: Oct. 20, Nov. 17 and Dec. 15.

FAMILY STORYTIME 11:30 a.m. Bring the entire family for stories and rhymes in both English and Spanish at the San Juan Capistrano Library. All ages are welcome.

No need to register.

PAJAMA STORYTIME 7 p.m. One Monday evening a month, starting in November, children and their parents are invited for a night of stories, songs and fun at the Dana Point Library. Don’t forget your PJs. All ages are invited.

Dates include: Nov. 24, Dec. 15, Jan. 26, Feb. 23, March 30, April 27, May 18 and June 22.

SATURDAY READ TO A DOG 11 a.m. Children can practice their skills and build confidence reading aloud by sharing favorite tales with certified therapy dogs on the third Saturday of each month at the Dana Point Library. Reserve a 10-minute session today.

TUESDAY

develops at their own pace.”

Working to support families and the needs of each student, Nobis teachers keep an open line of communication with parents and guardians—making certain all parties are on the same page. And as for the learning, well it starts early with the youngest of students, some at just 6 weeks old.

No babysitting here: This preschool is geared toward providing meaningful interaction to build communication and develop language, motor skills and other areas that will carry students throughout life.

Learn more about Nobis Preschool’s full- and part-time programs for children ages 6 months to 6 years at www.nobispreschool.com.

San Juan Capistrano Library

Dana Point Library

31495 El Camino Real San Juan Capistrano, Calif.

(949) 493-1752 www.ocpl.org/libloc/sjc

33481 Niguel Road Dana Point, Calif.

(949) 496-5517 www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana

HOURS OF OPERATION:

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Monday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Monday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Thursday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Friday: Closed Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: Noon to 5 p.m.

Sunday: Noon to 5 p.m.

Start saving for the future

Sign up for special classes

Explore your community

WEDNESDAY

TODDLER AND PRESCHOOL STORYTIMES 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. Stop by

EVERY CHILD IS DIFFERENT

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

Mark Your Calendar

Get out and enjoy nature

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

DR. TAUB’S

7

Steps to Wellness

1 | Aim high.

In America, as long as you are willing to study and work hard, you can accomplish your dreams.

2 | Make good choices.

This especially means not doing things, or avoiding others, you think might be wrong.

3 | Be kind and respectful.

Young musicians from the Los Rios Rock School perform at the Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven Campout in Pioneertown, Calif. in September. Courtesy: Los Rios Rock School

Music: A Universal Language

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

“Stir it up; little darling, stir it up.”

The bass line in Bob Marley and The Wailers’ 1973 single “Stir It Up” started Tyler Marolf on a musical journey that took decades to come to fruition. After six years of piano playing, the young musician at the ripe age of 12 picked up a bass guitar for the first time. It is with that instrument in hand months later that he knocked on the door of a neighbor’s garage, not to silence their band practice, to join in.

More than two decades later, Marolf has recreated that San Juan Capistrano garage from his youth three times over in the form of Los Rios Rock School—a south county safe-haven for music students of all ages and skill levels. The brothers who invited him in built the school’s music rooms.

“I built the place where the kid can knock on the door and we let them plug in,” Marolf said. “We have just one rule: You can have autism or be 65 years old … you just have to have the desire to learn music.”

Fifteen years old and searching for a connection or someone who understood, Marolf disappeared. On his own, he made his way to Guadalajara. Raised by loyal parents who instilled morals, he searched for someone to listen. Today, Marolf has created the place he sought out as a teen. He hasn’t simply crafted a music school but rather a space filled with teachers who take the time to hear what students are saying.

“We listen to kids,” Marolf said. “When

“We listen to kids. When they come in we immediately ask them to play us songs that mean the most to them. We find out what their ears like. We start to create dialogue so they start speaking. Music is a language … and everyone understands it.” —Tyler Marolf they come in we immediately ask them to play us songs that mean the most to them.

We find out what their ears like. We start to create dialogue so they start speaking.

Music is a language … and everyone understands it.”

It is all part of developing a relationship with students, it’s about having fun.

With 126 current students and nine teachers, Los Rios Rock School continues to grow within a tight-knit community where students are developing skills—such as problem solving, leadership and teamwork— far beyond their musical abilities. All part of Marolf’s mission to “Stir it up.”

Visit www.losriosrockschool.com for more information on the school’s programs.

Read together every day Discover things outdoors

Remember, life is all about love. Show kindness and respect toward others, including your parents, siblings, teachers, neighbors and other members of your community.

4 | Eat well. Eat healthy.

Consume more food that derives its energy from the sun, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat less food that gets

its energy from a factory, such as candy, sodas and other junk foods.

5 | Get active.

Participate in a physical activity every day that makes you feel sweaty or shortof-breath. Get exercise seven days a week for at least 30 minutes each time.

6 | Be quiet. Be Still.

Pause, be quiet and meditate for a few minutes when you wake up in the morning, go to bed at night or whenever you feel overwhelmed or stressed out.

Close your eyes and breathe slowly while relaxing your entire body. Then imagine a warm, healing, pure white light filling your heart. Now imagine this warm, healing, pure white light filling your entire body. Imagine the light filling you up all the way from the tips of your toes and fingers to the very top of your head.

Now repeat these three words, “God loves me.”

7 | Have some fun.

Find and make time for fun each and every day.

Students from the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area are led through a meditation session by pediatrician of 50 years Edward Taub. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

Dr. Edward Taub, a long-time Orange County pediatrician, practiced medicine for 50 years.

In the early ’70s after treating nearly 80 percent of his patients for stress related problems, through healthy eating, exercise and stress management, Taub created a wellness vaccination—no needles, just tips and advice on achieving an active, healthy and happy lifestyle. He’s been prescribing it ever since.

Prepare for the classroom Spark your child’s imagination

Get active and stay active Add to the savings account

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

A Little Fun on the Run Every week, Fun on the Run—a mobile recreation center—visits four neighborhoods in San Clemente.

This free program offered by the city of San Clemente keeps local children engaged once they are out of school and gives kids a positive place to spend time with peers while participating in physical activities and nutrition education.

“San Clemente has a diverse community and it is essential for all our children to enjoy after school enrichment activities,” said Peggy Lacayo, recreation supervisor for the city of San Clemente.

Fun on the Run also offers San Clemente’s youth additional fitness opportunities through Goal Zone Sports, a low-cost, afterschool program.

Throughout each six-week session, participants learn and review basic sportspecific techniques and run through drills and scrimmages. Children also receive 20 minutes of nutrition education. They also

Some of San Clemente’s youngest residents pause for a photo during a Fun on the Run stop.

Photo: City of San Clemente

work with pedometers and learn about bones, muscles and portion control.

Fun and learning opportunities continue throughout the year.

During the summer months, Fun on the Run provides a swim and learn element to local children. This eight-lesson program focuses on teaching children how to swim while reinforcing their academic skills in order to prevent summer learning loss and serves children who are unable to afford lessons and do not have transportation or access to a community pool.

To learn more about San Clemente’s youth recreation programs, visit www.san-clemente.org.

Learning Begins at Home

BY PAUL BREAZEALE, FIRST-GRADE TEACHER AT ST. ANNE SCHOOL

The transition from a Pre-K classroom to a Kindergarten class can be a fun, exciting and nervous time for students and parents alike.

Below are some thoughts and reflections compiled by several sources at St. Anne School in Laguna Niguel—from Pre-K and Kindergarten teachers to the director of St. Anne Preschool.

Catherine House, the director of St. Anne Preschool, offers great insight on the social and behavioral aspects needed of a child entering Kindergarten: “Children flourish when entering kindergarten by the progression in which they learn the principles and behaviors recognized by society. When they attain an awareness of self and take accountability for themselves and others, they become a capable and self-reliant learner ready to move forward. Social and emotional aptitudes are vital to children’s welfare and achievements, both in school and in life.”

Kindergarten teachers at St. Anne echo House in stating that developing awareness and respect for both the world around them and others at school is an important Kindergarten skill. One Kindergarten teacher

encourages parents to help their child with self-regulation. This includes working on paying attention, handling frustration, controlling impulses, following directions and finding solutions to problems.

Here are some things that you can do to prepare your child academically for Kindergarten.

According to Patti Dickmann, a Kindergartner teacher, a wonderful academic skill you can teach your children is the ability to tell a story in an imaginative way and retell a story that has been told to them. There are many things you can do at home to help your child develop this skill, like having your child tell you the beginning, middle and end of a story that has been read to them.

Also, if your family goes on an outing (Disneyland, the movies, etc.), have your child retell important events of the day and the order in which they happened.

This retelling ability is crucial to develop early writing ability. Other important skills teachers have stated are letter recognition of lower case letters and reviewing how to write these letters.

We hope we have offered some good insight on how to enjoy this exciting new chapter in your child’s life.

Encourage your child to tell stories Incorporate color into dinner

Paint, plant or try something new

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

A Lifetime of Lessons & Learning

BY KRISTEN NELSON, PRINCIPAL AT LAS PALMAS ELEMENTARY

Members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley work hard during homework Power Hours throughout the year to earn points so they can shop for their families at the holidays. Photo: Andrea Papagianis

Inspiring Youth to Reach Beyond

BY RON SIPIORA DIRECTOR OF RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT, BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CAPISTRANO VALLEY

“To inspire and enable all youth to reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens by providing stimulating and challenging programs through interaction with dedicated, caring people.”

That’s the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley. The clubs’ facilities are conveniently located within the communities we serve and adjacent to both elementary and middle school campuses making our services readily accessible to a large number of youth and their families.

In 2013, the Capistrano Valley branch, which has campuses in San Juan Capistrano, Aliso Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, served more than 2,700 youth through outreach programs and membership.

The clubs’ Academic and Career Support Program not only helps youth, who are at-risk for dropping out of school remain engaged and learning, but also enhances the culture throughout the club. Staff reinforces messages about the importance of education and members’ ability to be successful

The BGCCV have adopted a “Formula for Impact” which means that: We continue to serve those that need us the most and provide them with a world class program experience that offers programs in five core program areas: • Education and career development • The arts • Sports and fitness • Character and leadership development • Health and life skills Through these programs we deliver three key outcomes: • Academic success • Healthy lifestyles • Good character and leadership

in school.

Each component teaches students to responsibly complete their school assignments on-time and with pride in all subject areas, creates discipline and good study habits and builds their skills and confidence.

The cornerstone of our educational programming is Power Hour. Power Hour helps drive positive outcomes for youth in the area of academic success by extending learning beyond the school day. It offers a structured time and place for club staff and volunteers to help members complete their homework and start each school day better prepared and with a sense of confidence and competence.

As members complete homework assignments and participate in fun, hands-on activities that reinforce their learning, they earn Power Points that they can redeem for incentive prizes and special privileges. In addition, Power Hour offers small-group or oneon-one tutoring assistance for members identified as needing additional help with specific subjects or skills.

Find out more about the local Boys & Girls Clubs of Capistrano Valley at www.bgccapo.com.

Nurture your child’s special interests Complete homework together

How many of us reading this took years of high school Spanish, felt like we were almost bilingual, just to later realize we had forgotten so much of what we had learned?

Research continuously reinforces that the earlier we learn another language, the more it “sticks.” And although many can learn a new language later in life, it seems most of us share the “unsticky” story.

As I write, 21 countries list Spanish as the national language. It is obvious our children are growing up in a multi-cultural world that includes Spanish, Farsi, Chinese and Russian speakers among, others.

Las Palmas Elementary School, in San Clemente, is the oldest school in town. Its rich history and close-knit community make is a unique school within the Capistrano Unified School District.

It offers a K-5 Spanish immersion program where Englishand Spanish-speaking students are placed equally in classes and work hard to learn both languages together. By fourth grade, students read, write, speak and comprehend both languages. They also learn about different cultures and countries and are constantly reminded of how big the world is and how differences are to be valued instead of feared.

For Spanish-speaking students, this program offers an opportunity to strengthen their heritage language, to communicate with their entire family and to learn English with students they will travel their K-12 educational path along side. These students will be in the front of the line when it comes to applying for bilingual jobs of the future. For English speakers, the program offers the opportunity to become bilingual, grow up in a more multi-cultural environment and be prepared to succeed “Research continuously as a global citizen.

As a mother of two reinforces that the ear- Las Palmas graduates, I clearly see the lier we learn another impact this school has language, the more it on the individual child.

Both my daughters ‘sticks.’ And although are bilingual and open many can learn a new to friends who come different cultures. language later in life, it from My daughters talk seems most of us share frequently about traveling the world and the ‘unsticky’ story.” about learning a third language. They both also display great kindness toward those less fortunate.

In the end, it comes down to what each of us value or what works best for our child and family. For some, it is a neighborhood school. That is a wonderful experience for children that offers a great education with the security of neighborhood friends. For others, the idea of having their child learn both English and Spanish and grow up in a more multi-cultural environment is a priority as they look to the future.

Get involved in outof-class activities Talk about future goals and plans

Continue to save for the future

Discuss life after high school

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Paid Advertorials

St. Margaret’s Episcopal School 31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108, www.smes.org Admission Open House: Saturday, November 15, 2014

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

Santa Margarita Catholic High School

32032 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

22062 Antonio Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, 949.766.6000, www.smhs.org

When you step foot on the campus of Capistrano Valley Christian Schools you realize you are not in the typical school setting.

The facilities provide a sense of security and calmness with a dynamic spirit. Parents who consider Capistrano Valley Christian Schools say their values, both academically and spiritually, are consistent with an environment that emphasizes Christian values, strong academics, and individual student responsibility and leadership. The opportunity for their children to participate in this rigorous and rewarding experience from Junior Kindergarten through High School is viewed as a wonderfully unique opportunity.

Positive peer pressure and the close teacher/student relationships produce high achievement, a disciplined environment, and a setting where the school becomes an extension of the home.

Students have the opportunity to participate in quality athletic programs, dynamic drama productions, real life leadership situations, all undergirded by the Word of God.

Santa Margarita Catholic High School offers a well-rounded, college-preparatory education developing students who are people of faith, skilled lifelong learners, healthy individuals and involved citizens of our world. Santa Margarita’s academic tracks are tailored to meet the needs of varied learners. The school offers 19 AP courses, an Interdisciplinary Program catering to hands-on learners and an Auxiliary Studies Program provides students with specialized learning needs the opportunity to reach their full potential. Santa Margarita is also the only Catholic high school in Orange County to offer the challenging International Baccalaureate program. The school’s One-to-One Tablet PC program provides an immersive educational experience preparing our students for college and beyond.

Students are accepted to the nation’s top universities, with the majority of students earning scholarships. Faith development and extracurricular activities are an integral part of a Santa Margarita education. Students are encouraged to explore their passions through the school’s thriving activities, arts and athletic programs.

Founded in 1979, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School is the premier, independent collegepreparatory day school in Orange County, situated on a beautiful 22acre campus in historic San Juan Capistrano, educating 1,245 students from preschool through grade 12. Graduates of 2014 attend colleges and universities across the nation, including Columbia University, Cornell University, Dartmouth College, Johns Hopkins University, University of California, Los Angeles, New York University, University of Notre Dame, University of Southern California, University of St. Andrews, Scotland and Villanova University.

The upper school offers 26 Advanced Placement courses and innovative, challenging academic courses, including marine science, multivariable calculus and software engineering. Every graduate is prepared and qualified to enroll in a fouryear college or university, and because of the school’s reputation for the depth and quality of its academic program, more than 125 colleges and universities across the country visit St. Margaret’s annually to recruit its graduates.

The school invests heavily in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, with robotics and engineering programs beginning in Lower School in a dedicated engineering and robotics lab. By Middle School every student learns, studies and works on iPads. In upper school, students innovate and create in a state-of-the-art design and fabrication lab.

The early childhood program focuses on cognitive, physical, social, emotional and

creative growth. The preschool curriculum develops exploration and foundation skills, receiving the highest marks from the National Association for the Education of Young Children. The differentiated curriculum evolves in lower school to a dynamic academic classroom experience in reading, writing and math, along with science, STEM, social studies, world languages, physical education and art. Educating the whole child best prepares young learners for future social and academic success.

A hallmark of St. Margaret’s is how its renowned faculty, more than 60 percent hold advanced degrees, are engaged in the life of each student. Teachers, advisors, three full-time college counselors, chaplains and coaches provide a solid framework of guidance and support. Through small class sizes, every student is known and nurtured.

The new, reimagined library, a modern communal learning hub, provides dedicated spaces to support student learning, research and study needs, to work independently or collaboratively with classmates and to seek guidance from expert researchers and information specialists.

Physical education and athletics emphasize active and healthy living, integrity, teamwork, high expectations and mutual respect, from gross motor development in Preschool to 24 CIF varsity sports. The “Tartans” have achieved 27 team CIF-SS championships, and seven team state championships.

Opened in 2012, St. Margaret’s 45,000 square-foot Performing Arts Center supports a vibrant arts curriculum in theater, dance, orchestra, band, choir and visual arts challenging students to be creative thinkers, problem-solvers and deepen their voice.

St. Margaret’s students and alumni are easily recognized for their integrity, leadership, character and values. The school’s Episcopal identity guides its inclusive community that values faith and reason, embraces debate and differences and emphasizes the spiritual and intellectual development of each child. Alongside rigorous academics and a breadth of student programs, St. Margaret’s fosters lives of understanding, respect, compassion, responsibility and the courage to lead and serve others.

sentations, eligible sixth graders at Marco Forster Middle School can apply for the program that on average accepts about 25 students each year. Each student completes a rigorous application and interview process in order to gain acceptance.

In its eight years, Breakthrough has worked with more than 200 Marco Forster students, who go on to attend Capistrano Valley, Dana Hills and San Juan Hills high schools. In its first two graduating classes, 100 percent of Breakthrough students earned their high school diplomas and more than 60 percent are attending college, including Beloit College, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Cal State Fullerton, San Francisco

State University and Saddleback College.

Of the 84 students enrolled in the program in 2013, 86 percent were eligible to receive free or reduced price lunches at school. Nine out of 10 students will be the first members of their family to attend college and 83 percent live in a household where English is not the primary language.

Breakthrough teachers and staff don’t limit themselves solely to working with students. They also meet regularly with parents to teach them how to navigate the school system and encourage them to be more supportive of their child’s education.

It is part of Breakthrough’s two-fold mission that also aims to train the next generation of teachers.

Every summer, the program invites students studying education at colleges and universities across the country—including Columbia, Harvard, Stanford, UCLA and USC—to stay in San Juan Capistrano and help teach the next wave of Breakthrough students. The student teachers are guided

by Breakthrough staff, as well as volunteer teachers and professors from local high schools and universities.

Last year, Breakthrough received funding through an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) grant that allowed them to bring on two yearlong staff members. With the added support, Breakthrough has been able to double its volunteers through partnerships with local high schools and the Boys & Girls Club, where students receive tutoring sessions and college presentations.

Although the program receives a portion of their funding from Breakthrough Collaborative and St. Margaret’s, its support largely comes from charitable donations and community support.

Learn more about Breakthrough San Juan at www.breakthroughsjc.org.

Kids tend to be drawn to what is safe. It is our job to make colorful food fun.

Find ways to incorporate leafy greens into your family’s diet by disguising it in a meal or throwing it into a smoothie. Protein is probably one of the most important factors for learning. Having an omelet or a protein smoothie at breakfast can do wonders to help your child excel in school.

Good fats such as nuts, avocados and almond butter can all help to carry your child through a long day of school. Another important factor to growing and encouraging a strong healthy mind and body are vitamins and oils. I recommend four products

to parents: vitamin D3, omega-3 oils, calcium and a multivitamin. Kids tend to be picky eaters so giving a few supplements once a day can ease the body from having to work so hard, boost the immune system and help with improved growth.

Reading labels, buying local and organic when possible, eating a balanced diet and choosing clean safe vitamins and oils are all part of the puzzle.

Emily Valenzuela is a California licensed acupuncturist and certified clinical nutritionist who holds a master’s degree in traditional Chinese medicine.

Bryan Boyce, assistant director of Breakthrough San Juan, helps Amy Fabian, a seventh grader at Marco Forster Middle School, apply for a scholarship. Photo: Brian Park

Breaking Through to Higher Education

BY BRIAN PARK

Since launching in 2006, Breakthrough San Juan, a tuition-free academic program run out of St. Margaret’s Episcopal School has helped high-achieving students from low-income, underserved backgrounds through their middle and high school years with the ultimate goal of attending college.

Breakthrough San Juan is part of a national nonprofit program, Breakthrough Collaborative, which provides support for students from the eighth grade all the way through high school. It is one of 33 sites across the nation but the only one located in Southern California.

Through outreach and informational pre-

Healthy Habits Start at Birth

BY EMILY VALENZUELA, OWNER OF A POINT OF HEALTH, INC.

Teaching our kids about nutrition from the beginning is one of the most important jobs we have as parents. I encourage all parents to get to know what they are eating by reading labels and checking the source of fruits, vegetables, dairy and meat products.

Track school progress, seek out tutoring Go on an educational adventure

Find time for family fun

Encourage strong study skills

High School: Work Hard, Enjoy Your Experiences

BY CLEO VICTA, SCHOOL COUNSELOR AT MARCO FORSTER MIDDLE SCHOOL

High School is an exciting time in your education.

During your high school years, you will grow emotionally, physically, mentally and socially. High school will be a time for you to also learn new things such as thinking for yourself, being more independent, adjusting to new rules and making new friends.

You will need to continue to be organized, write your daily assignments on your agenda, manage your time for each class and study the material that you are being taught in order to get good grades in your classes. All of this will help you become successful—not only in high school but in life.

You will have different teachers with different teaching styles, just like in middle school. Teachers will expect you to do more on your own, be more responsible and have good attendance, which will help you succeed, get good grades and enjoy your high school years.

Try to take classes that will prepare you for your future. Some classes might be more challenging than others but your daily homework will help you understand the material better.

In high school, you will need more time to prepare for tests and exams in order to get good grades. Your first-year grades are very important because they are part of your grade-point average. Your GPA will have an impact on the college you are trying to get into.

I also strongly encourage you to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports or clubs. These activities will help you meet people, learn new skills and have fun in high school.

Teachers and staff want you to have a positive experience in high school. Take advantage of the great opportunities to learn new things and don’t be afraid to ask your teacher or counselor if you need help.

Do your best, learn all you can, make good choices and have fun in high school.

Chat about the pressures of high school Add to the savings account

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Budding scientists peer into a viewing tank at the Ocean Institute to watch a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) in action. Courtesy: Ocean Institute

Science is for Everyone, Kids Included

BY JULIANNE E. STEERS, MARINE BIOLOGIST AND DIRECTOR OF HUSBANDRY AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE

Einstein said, “The whole of science is nothing more than a refinement of everyday thinking.”

As with most of us, the pint-size variety wonders, why? Kids are experts at asking questions. Engage that thirst for knowledge—that quest for why—and encourage learning through hands-on experiences.

Lucky for all of us, science is everywhere.

That factor comes in very handy when implementing everyday experimentation, like observing changes in weather or the chemical reactions in cooking. Next, venture out to explore a tide pool, wetland or forest. Each habitat teems with life and you never know what critter will crawl by next. Use a field guide to help children name the animals that live in the pools or up in the canopy.

Right in Dana Point Harbor at the Ocean Institute, there is a bevy of laboratories for young (and young-at-heart) eager minds to challenge their thoughts. A science and living history field-trip destination for over three decades, the institute boasts programs primed for students to piece together the life cycle of a sea jelly, design a remote operated vehicle or investigate animals living in mud retrieved from the seafloor.

On weekends, the laboratories and research vessel are open to the public for your chance to explore the biodiversity of marine life, get all gooey in dissecting a mackerel and see firsthand how the institute uses ocean science, history and literature to inspire life-long learners.

Science-themed, weeklong summer camps are available for every age K-12, allowing a multitude of opportunities to build a keen scientific foundation.

The Marine Science Careers and Internship Academy nurtures teens through intense, hands-on lab and field research experiences and prepares them for an Ocean Institute internship. Once completed, selected interns are paired with a mentor for a year-long journey of designing, developing and implementing their own research just as a career scientist would do.

For the curious girl in your world, Girls in Ocean Science are day-long conferences dedicated to inspiring young women to pursue degrees and careers in the sciences.

Prominent female scientists from around the country interact with the girls in a series of hands-on workshops aboard our research vessel, Sea Explorer, and in the Ocean Institute’s teaching labs.

Volunteering at your local science center can bring strong benefits to your student by developing science career skills and expose young minds to what it is like to work in a scientifically oriented environment.

So, get out there and ignite your child’s interest in science in a way that can last their entire lifetime.

Log on to www.ocean-institute.org to find out more about science-based learning.

Try a new activity, meet new people Learn where your food comes from

Explore career opportunities

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH

Teen Stress: Revisit Your Expectations

BY SUSAN PARMALEE, SOCIAL WORKER WITH THE WELLNESS & PREVENTION CENTER AT SAN CLEMENTE HIGH SCHOOL AND WESTERN YOUTH SERVICES

A reality of today’s education system is the necessity for our teens to load up their schedules with college level coursework, a variety of extra-curricular activities, prep for college boards and develop socially at the same time. As parents, educators and mental health professionals, it may be wise to step back and help our teens find the right balance.

The American Psychological Society (“Teen Stress Rivals Adults,” April 2014) reports that there is an increase in adolescent depression and anxiety that may correlate to increased stress levels.

Guide, Guard, and Govern

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

As a parent, you have 18 summers with your child. How many do you have left?

That’s the question Deputy Mike Woodroof is asking. It’s a simple one. A question that makes parents think. Time is limited.

How are you going to make the most of it? That is the beginning of reprioritizing the thought process and life, Woodroof, a veteran of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, says.

When looking for a way to reach students at home, Woodroof, the school resource officer at Dana Hills High School, focused on what makes a home, the family unit as a whole. After attending a national prescription drug summit, Woodroof helped develop a program to be used countywide that engages parents and students through a series of talks coined “A Prescription for Life.”

With a staggering rise in opiate use and drug related deaths being seen nationwide, Woodruff and his counterparts at high

“Talking to kids about prescription drug use makes it 50 percent less likely they will use them.”

—Mike Woodroof

When a teen is stressed, parents may notice changes in mood including: increased irritability, tearfulness, physical complaints—such as stomachaches, headaches, tiredness—withdrawal, difficulty concentrating and the teen may report feelings of hopelessness.

If you are concerned your child may be experiencing clinical symptoms consult your pediatrician or mental health provider.

The most important tip for parents and those who work with teens, is to listen and try to understand what is causing the stress. Help the teen find positive ways to deal with stress—physical activity and taking breaks for enjoyable activities, talking about problems with others, setting small goals and breaking tasks into manageable

chunks, focusing on what one can control and letting goal of what one cannot control, deep breathing, lowering of unrealistic expectations, and healthy eating and sleeping.

For more information, visit www.jhsph.edu/adolescents.

As parents and adults involved in teens lives, it is important to model appropriate coping strategies for dealing with stress.

When advising teens on academic schedules, consider the amount of time each class will require in homework. Encourage an elective in the arts and participation in non-academic activities.

Sending our youth onto to college and careers with the ability to balance their lives is a skill that ensures their health and success.

IN 2011:

THAT MEANS:

41,340

113

people died from a drug overdose

people died every day and…

55%

6,748

were attributed to pharmaceuticals

patients were treated for drug misuse

FIGURES PROVIDED BY THE SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, WWW.SAMHSA.GOV.

schools throughout Orange County needed a tool to open up the conversation with both parents and teens. They found the three G’s: guide, guard and govern.

“Just talking to kids about prescription drug use makes it 50 percent less likely they will use them,” Woodroof said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drug overdose death rates in the United States have tripled since 1990. In 2011 alone, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported that 41,340 deaths were due to drug overdoses with 55 percent of those being attributed to pharmaceuticals. That’s 113 people dying every day due to drugs and another 6,748 being treated in emergency rooms across the county for drug misuse, SAMHSA found.

Those statistics, coupled with the impact decisions to try drugs can have on a teen’s

future, sparked OCSD to develop a public program to help families provide guidance, protect their families and set boundaries.

Below, Woodroof provides some insight into the three G’s to help keep teens on a positive trajectory:

• Talk to family and friends.

• Get your heart rate of daily.

• Have some fun, laugh it out.

• Give up the bad habits.

• Slow down, get enough sleep.

Keep sheep safe and make them aware of the wolf. Put up guard rails and boundary lines—these are instrumental in the survival of a child. Would you walk a thin bridge over the Grand Canyon with no rails? Set limitations and monitor your child’s actions. Remember, with social media today innocence can be lost in the click of a button.

Govern Turn on a presidential mindset. You are the overseer whose duty is to preserve, defend and protect. Spot check children, much like your employer checks on you, and inform them that trust must be earned.

Their privacy will be granted once trust is proven. Teach them that they are not free from the consequences of their actions.

UPCOMING “A PRESCRIPTION FOR LIFE” DATES: TUESDAY, OCT. 14, 6:30 P.M.

Guide

Bell Tower Ballroom, 22232 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita

Take on a point-man mentality. Life includes a series of booby traps. Be prepared.

Teens and parents will encounter obstacles such as friends, social media, diet, clothing, drugs and other outside societal forces that will try to change beliefs parents have instilled in the beginning. This is your mission, your virtues, your faith and your family.

Take charge.

THURSDAY, OCT. 16, 7:30 P.M.

Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente MONDAY, OCT. 20, 6:30 P.M.

Community Center, 4501 Casa Loma Ave., Yorba Linda WEDNESDAY, OCT. 22, 6:30 P.M.

Civic Center, 7800 Katella Ave., Stanton

Guard Act as a shepherd overseeing their flock.

Prepare for college entrance exams Find volunteer and internship opportunities

Students, if you are overwhelmed and feeling the effects of stress, the American Heart Association has some healthy-habit recommendations to adopt.

Explore alternative routes to careers Look into college funding options

Communicate about stress, drugs and alcohol

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

Finding the Right Model for Education

BY DR. RICHARD SAVAGE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF CALIFORNIA CONNECTIONS ACADEMY

Students learn in many different ways and finding an educational model that fits their individual needs is critical for academic success. I’ve been an educator for 15 years and am incredibly impressed at the evolution of quality K-12 education options for students today.

Education is no longer one-size-fits-all and each family has the ability to choose the education option that’s best for their children. I’ve seen parents and students learn more about the education options available to their family by visiting schools, shadowing students, attending information sessions and school fairs and speaking with other families.

The goal of California Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school for students in grades K-12, is to help each student maximize his or her learning potential through an individualized education program. California Connections Academy’s non-traditional learning environment can be a great fit for many types of students, including those who need a flexible sched-

ule, those who learn at a different pace from their peers or those who need more individualized attention.

State-credentialed teachers conduct LiveLesson® sessions—a virtual classroom setting that encourages the same lively interactions of a traditional classroom, but online. Students interact with one another, chat amongst themselves and can even virtually raise their hands.

Students of diverse abilities and interests thrive and grow at the school, where they have access to a broad range of electives, customized learning plans and courses.

California Connections Academy @ Capistrano currently has more than 2,500 enrolled students in Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties. Teachers work with students and learning coaches to develop customized programs that address each student’s personal education needs while maintaining a curriculum that meets rigorous state education standards.

For many students and families, a virtual school like Connections Academy provides an ideal, personalized learning environment, all from the students’ homes.

For more information, visit www.californiaconnectionsacademy.com.

California Connections Academy @ Capistrano students show off their medals after finishing The Kids Run the OC. Connections Academy is a tuition-free online public school for students in grades K-12. Photo: Courtesy

Clean Up Your Digital Life

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS

The world of college admissions have changed since your parents mailed in their paper applications. In today’s reality, where preschool admittance often rivals that of an Ivy League university, you’ve got to bring your ‘A’ game like never before.

But it isn’t just about volunteering with the local Rotary Club, playing a lead role in the school’s production of “A Chorus Line” or even the ever-rising GPA. With a simple Google, Facebook or Twitter search, your entire life can be on display for everyone to see—not only your friends, but you parents, grandparents, admission counselors and future employers. Go ahead, Google me: Andrea Papagianis. I just did. I do it often. Not out of vanity but out of necessity.

You’ll find my Twitter, LinkedIn and professional Facebook accounts. You’ll see my attempts at creating a website, my wedding registry and a slightly embarrassing HuffPost Live chat I participated in during the 2012 presidential campaign where I talk with my hands and make duck faces into the webcam.

What do you find when you Google yourself? Do you have your privacy settings on social media locked down? Do you monitor what you share on social media? Think about it. Are your hashtags

Visit college and university campuses Study for college entrance exams

What do you find when you Google yourself? Do you have your privacy settings on social media locked down? Do you monitor what you share on social media? clean? Your pictures tame? The overall content of the messages you are putting out there copasetic?

People, myself included, aren’t lying when we say your digital life impacts your living, breathing reality. Before I’ve interviewed potential interns, sources and college boyfriends, I have done my research. Let’s be honest, we’ve all done it. What have you concluded from your searches?

What do you want people to see when they look you up?

My advice, which you can take or leave, is to clean up your digital life.

Make sure the you represented online is the person you want college admission counselors, future professors, potential internship hosts, employers and your grandparents to see.

Seek out tutoring if it’s needed Shadow professionals in different fields

Check out scholarship opportunities

CRIB TO COLLEGE | PRESENTED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES, DANA POINT TIMES AND THE CAPISTRANO DISPATCH | AN EDUCATIONAL GUIDE TO YOUR CHILD’S SUCCESS

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

George Zeleski Remembered Cartoonist was a man with an abiding sense of humor and faith

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

G

eorge Zeleski came to San Clemente late in life. But his cartoon take on his adopted home since 1971 brought smiles to residents for more than two decades.

On Sept. 30, Zeleski, 93, passed away, following an illness. He was active nearly until the end, working on a new series of cartoons he hoped might be syndicated.

A butcher and U.S. Department of Agriculture meat inspector, Zeleski took up cartooning soon after he retired when a neighbor, then Sun-Post News owner Stan Manning, approached him about submitting drawings. That was 1987.

He submitted a cartoon each week for 20 years before retiring in 2006 due to macular degeneration in one of his eyes.

However, when doctors were able to save the afflicted eye, SC Times publisher Norb Garrett called to ask Zeleski to contribute monthly cartoons.

“It seemed to give him a new incentive,” Marilyn, Zeleski’s wife of almost 17 years said. “He was always trying things.”

Even in the months before his death, Zeleski began working on a series of cartoons that depicted seniors with canes, walkers or wheelchairs out doing activities. He’d recently settled on a name, “Age is Only a Three Letter Word.”

“He would say, ‘I started cartooning when I was in grade school,’” Marilyn said.

“But he’s never been commercial. He did some in the armed forces, when he was in Europe, but he didn’t have any record of it.”

Zeleski would spend hours at a time in his studio drawing and coming up with ideas by reading the paper. The cartooning, as well as regular Bible study classes at Our Lady of Fatima, really worked to keep his mind and spirit going, Marilyn said.

“Those were the two things that kept him active enough,” Marilyn said. “He’d spend hours up here. And it was great for me, because I could go out and do my own thing.”

Marilyn and George were each other’s second marriage. Marilyn and her former husband knew George and his then-wife, Peggy. Their kids grew up together.

Marilyn’s husband passed away after 41 years of marriage. Peggy passed away later. She and George had been married

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

Above: George Zeleski at his drawing desk. Photo: Courtesy Below: George Zeleski drew this self-portrait cartoon last Christmas. We’ve changed it to include Zeleski’s own words about drawing.

for 48 years. The couple would have been married 17 years Oct. 4.

Typically, George would work out on his own what he wanted to draw, Marilyn said. In the last few years, however, he was open to more suggestions.

“He definitely was his own man when it came to art,” she said.

Zeleski had also begun working at putting some of his older cartoons on canvas with bright acrylics, along with other forms of art. He’d also regularly kept up his work in oils and watercolors.

“He’d always loved colors,” she said.

He’d also regularly created cartoons for the Knights of Columbus, as well as ones expressing his faith, such as one depicting a man sitting on a bench with his arm outstretched, as if resting on the back an unseen person. A halo floated above the space, representing the Holy Spirit.

Daughter Jan Zeleski said her father encouraged all of his children to draw and be creative.

“We had a white formica kitchen table and my brother, my sister and I would sit there at various times of the day and sketch and draw whatever we wanted.

Sometimes dad would draw on it,” she said. “At the end of the day, before we’d sit down for dinner, my sister and I were sup-

posed to set the table, which meant that we’d have to take a scouring pad and erase everything, clean off all the drawings from the table. But we got into the habit of picking the best one of the day and leaving it.”

Jan said her father would regularly take his three children to museums to view art,

Page 29

as well as encourage them to paint and draw.

“He taught us to appreciate all things beautiful in life,” she said. “There wasn’t a day in his life that you wouldn’t find my dad drawing something, somewhere.

Cartoons, sketches, painting. No matter how hard he worked, and he certainly was a hardworking man, every day he’d draw.

He used to tell us, ‘The beauty of drawing is that all it takes is a pencil and a piece of paper.’”

Jan said her father thought of himself primarily as a cartoonist and wished he’d been able to do it throughout his life.

“Whenever I’d talk to him on the phone, his real enthusiasm would show when I’d ask him how the art work was coming along. Nine times out of 10 he’d be working on a cartoon and tell me all about it,” Jan said.

His new set of cartoons reflected that, she said. Most featured older people surfing or doing some kind of strenuous activity. One cartoon depicting a pair of seniors surfing next to one another included a man with a cane. When asked what the cane was for, the man replies, “To fight off sharks.”

“It was not about them being limited but about doing anything they wanted,” Jan said. “He just created such a wonderful home for us. He always kept us laughing, Dad had such a deep and abiding sense of humor, and he instilled that in all of us.

He was a man who loved life. He loved my mother. He loved Marilyn. He loved kids; he taught them anything from art to sports. He loved to dress in nice clothes and go traveling. But he always found humor in anything. That’s how he could rise above even the toughest circumstances.”

Services for George Zeleski will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 105 N. La Esperanza, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 14. 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 slantz@sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

Page 30

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

Page 31

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

ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST 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

Village Books

99 Avenida Serra, 949.492.1114, www.DowntownSanClemente.com

Oasis Heating & Air

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

HOME DÉCOR CHIROPRACTIC

Thompson Chiropractic

629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.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

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

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric

949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

Janet Poth - Violin & Viola

413 Calle Pueblo, 949.922.6388, janpoth@aol.com

REAL ESTATE

Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group

Lange & Minnott

HEATING BOOKS

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

San Clemente, 949.842.3631, www.forterealtygroup.com At Thompson Chiropractic we utilize a variety of chiropractic techniques, physiotherapy modalities and soft tissue therapies to relieve your pain as fast as possible. Dr. Russell Thompson and his staff are committed to getting you back to the things you love. Schedule an appointment or walk in today. 629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.com

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

929 Calle Negocio Suite D, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com

Chick’s Plumbing

949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

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

Marcie George Star Real Estate South County

949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net

“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax

949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com

RESTAURANTS

Café Calypso

114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

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

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year.

View online at 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

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE - CAPO BEACH 26326 Via California St. 8- 2 p.m.

Sat., Oct. 18. Items including: tennis racquets, 64 GB iPods, ice skates, rollerblades, golf equipment, crystal glassware.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!

Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com.

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

OTHER INTERESTING STUFF LOCAL MICROSOFT ACCESS CLASSES. Our studio or your facility. Group discounts.

Orange Coast Database Assoc.

Call 949-489-1472.

OBITUARY George Zeleski George Edward Zeleski, 93, of San Clemente, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on September 30, 2014. George served during WWII in the Army Air Force in North Africa and Italy. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in San Clemente.

George is well-known as a talented artist, but his true passion was for cartooning. For many years his cartoons were published in the Orange County Register & Sun Post and the San Clemente Times.

George was predeceased by his wife, Peggy. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and son, Dean Zeleski; daughter, Jill Centeno (Mike); daughter, Jan HartwellZeleski ; sister-in-law, Ruth Harris; step-daughter, Kathryn Beesley; step-son, Patrick Byrne (Stephanie); step-granddaughter, Dr. Allison Byrne (Christina). He was also much loved by many nieces, nephews and friends. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14th at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in San Clemente. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice. Lesneski Mortuary has been entrusted with services.

PH: (949-492-3325)

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

Dollars and Sense Finances important when selecting a mate

W

Cassidy Levin, Jade Enyart and Whitney Hughes of Fisherman’s pour out some of the restaurant’s white chowder entry.

Vito Raspatelli of Tina & Vince’s pours the Downtown Business Association’s entry.

Members of one of San Clemente’s adopted Marine units, HMLA 469.

San Clemente SeaFest Brings Out the Chowder Fans PHOTOS AND TEXT BY JIM SHILANDER

C

howder fans and surfers made their way to the San Clemente Pier Sunday for the 27th annual San Clemente SeaFest. The contest brought out restaurants, nonprofit organizations and individuals hoping to tempt the palates of tourists and beachgoers.

This year’s winners are as follows:

JUDGE’S WINNERS Individual: 1st Place: Don Kunze’s Gadfly 2nd Place: The Cure Chowder 3rd Place: Downtown Business Association 4th Place: Solitary Exposure Best Decorated Booth-Individual: 1st Place: Downtown Business Association 2nd Place: United States Marine Corps HMLA 469 3rd Place: Solitary Exposure 4th Place: San Clemente Oktoberfest Best Chowder-Restaurant: 1st Place: Beach Garden Cafe 2nd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (White) 3rd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (Red) Best Decorated Booth-Restaurant: 1st Place: Beach Garden Cafe 2nd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (White) 3rd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (Red)

Sudoku

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

Last week’s solution:

Best Chowder- Individual: 1st Place: The Cure Chowder 2nd Place: Don Kunze’s Gadfly 3rd Place: Downtown Business Association 4th Place: Edward Jones/HMLA 469

Margarino Dominguez works on flipping the grilled lobsters.

San Clemente Times October 9–15, 2014

hen seniors start dating again, I recommend they create a written list of personal characteristics they seek in a mate and use that list as a guide when choosing dates.

After his divorce, Jerry—not his true name—compiled a detailed “deal-breaker” list of the qualities he sought in a mate.

“Personal finance and financial responsibility were very high on my list,” he said. “In my first marriage, finances were a major issue.” After his divorce, Jerry worked hard to pay down debt, fund his retirement and manage his finances.

Jerry said, “A couple of years ago, I met someone who had a great personality. We dated a year, fell in love and decided to marry (my second, her third). She was easygoing and a pleasure to spend time with. I relaxed the financial aspect of my deal-breaker list.

“I was open about discussing finances but she was hesitant to discuss hers. A month prior to our marriage, she informed me that she had $40,000 of credit card debt, but did not expect me to help her in paying this off once we got married.

“She moved into my home. We agreed to split the utilities and groceries only, which would give her an additional $1,000 each month to pay down her debt. After a year of marriage, I am wondering if I relaxed my ‘deal-breaker’ list too much.

I have encountered a few bumps in the road, as far as her finances.

“We both recently pulled our credit reports, which revealed she had not reduced her credit card debt during the first year of our marriage, apparently spending the majority of her paycheck on herself. I told her that if her financial behavior did not change, it would create problems.

“Recently, she mentioned updating our wills. When I told her I would be dividing my estate and life insurance in equal portions between her and my children, she started crying and said the wife should come first and that I should will the majority of my estate to her. Then, upon her

Best Chowder-Restaurant: 1st Place: Beach Garden Cafe 2nd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (White) 3rd Place: Fisherman’s Restaurant (Red)

death, the children would be recognized.

I did not agree to her request but did increase her division of my estate ‘slightly.’

“She will not be thrown out of the house onto the street or be penniless if anything should happen to me. I wonder if Finding Love after 50 has put me in trouble? Has relaxing the ‘deal breaker list’ backfired?

“My wife is a true pleasure to be around and we have a good time together. If I ignore her financial issues there’s not a lot to complain about. It’s not costing me anything, yet. I am committed to this marriage, but how much do I commit to?”

Tom’s response: A financial plan should have been worked out before the marriage. But Jerry let it slide. He didn’t follow his “deal-breaker” list.

Her crying because he intends to will half of his estate to his kids leaves me cold. With her financial track record, his kids would not see a dime ON LIFE AND of that money. It would LOVE AFTER 50 all be gone. He was a

By Tom Blake milquetoast by adjusting the estate distribution due to her tears.

If the money gets tight, she might divorce him. If so, he could be responsible for half of her debts. Jerry needs to see his lawyer now to protect his hard-earned financial interests. Relaxing his “dealbreaker” list has jeopardized his finances.

The last age 50-plus singles Meet and Greet of 2014 is set for Thursday, Oct. 29, from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Tutor and Spunky’s Deli in Dana Point. Carl the DJ will be spinning the oldies. For information, contact Tom at 949.248.9008.

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

BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

Page 33

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

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Triton Report

week as the No. 6 team in the CIF-SS Division 2 rankings.

The San Clemente girls cross country team was set to compete in the South Coast League Cluster Meet at Irvine Regional Park on Oct. 8. Results were not available at press time.

The Tritons have been led by senior Kelsey Carroll, who has won two consecutive individual races to start her 2014 season. Carroll won the senior race at both the Woodbridge Invitational and Laguna Hills Invitational in Sept.

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School fall sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports..

Tritons Water Polo Breezes Past Diablos

Tesoro Dominant in 59-38 Win Over Tritons A hounding defense, slick special teams and solid quarterback play powered visiting Tesoro to a 59-38 nonleague victory over San Clemente on Oct. 2.

Tesoro junior quarterback Devon Modster and the Titans (5-1) offense had an answer for everything the Tritons (5-1) threw at them. Modster completed 17 of 30 pass attempts for 234 yards and four touchdowns. He also ran in a score late in the second quarter.

The Titans were able to keep San Clemente off the scoreboard early. Modster hit senior Tristan Kafentzis for a 30-yard touchdown and, after Tesoro forced a three and out on defense, connected with junior Spencer Heinsius for a 15-yard scoring strike that made it 14-0.

In the second quarter, both teams had a hard time keeping control of the ball.

A Tesoro fumble was recovered by San Clemente to start the quarter but the Tritons coughed it up right back to the visitors minutes later. With Tesoro driving downfield, the Tritons defense forced another fumble and senior linebacker Riley Whimpey recovered it for a 70-yard touchdown return to make it 17-10.

The Titans kick return unit was a difference maker in the game and consistently set Tesoro’s offense up with a short field.

After being set up at midfield, Tesoro scored on the first of two Anthony Battista

San Clemente’s Sam Darnold (18) and junior running back Vlad Dzhabiyev (30) run a play against Tesoro on Oct. 2. Photo: Kevin Dahlgren/www.sportswurlz.com

touchdown runs to make it 24-10. Less than one minute later, San Clemente quarterback Sam Darnold responded on a 21-yard touchdown screen pass to junior Vlad Dzhabiyev to cut into Tesoro’s lead yet again, 24-17.

The crucial swing in the game came just before halftime.

San Clemente marched downfield trailing by 14 and scored on a 12-yard Dzhabiyev run with just over one minute to play.

Tesoro again got a big play from their special teams when Kafentzis returned the ensuing kick 45 yards, setting up yet another short field. Modster engineered a quick-hit four-play scoring drive and ran in a four-yard touchdown to make it 38-24 with 19 seconds remaining.

Tesoro received the ball to start the second half and scored on a 16-yard pass from Modster to Jake Smeltzer to take a commanding 45-24 lead.

The Tritons were not able to recover.

“We didn’t play clean and when you don’t play clean that’s what happens.

(Being) 5-1 is good. I wish we would have performed better tonight and we didn’t,” San Clemente head coach Jaime Ortiz said. “We’ve got to lick our wounds and

learn from the experience and get ready for next Friday night.”

The loss snapped the No. 1 ranked Tritons five-game unbeaten streak. San Clemente will now head into Sea View League play and a game against Capistrano Valley on Oct. 10. The Cougars (5-1) are in the midst of a bounce-back year and are currently ranked No. 6 in the CIF-SS Southwest Division polls.

Boys X-C Wins Sea View League Preview The San Clemente boys cross country team packed five runners inside the top-10 to earn a first-place finish at the Sea View League Cluster Meet at Irvine Regional Park on Oct. 7.

Junior Connor Dunne won the race by a healthy margin, finishing in 15:47, more than 13 seconds faster than his teammate sophomore Jose Carlos De Jesus, who finished second. Senior Matthew Shelton finished fi fth.

The win was an early statement for the Triton squad, who edged second place Tesoro at the meet. Tesoro began the

Five goals apiece from Chase Hamming and Colton Hamming helped pace the San Clemente boys water polo team to a convincing 14-3 South Coast League win over Mission Viejo on Oct. 7.

The Tritons (9-7, 2-0 league) will play host to rival Dana Hills on Oct. 14 in a crucial league game.

Volleyball Beats Titans in Five The San Clemente girls volleyball team rallied back after losing the first two sets to Tesoro on Oct. 7 to take a five-set South Coast League victory on the road.

The Tritons won 27-29, 21-25, 25-20, 25-21, 19-17.

Girls Golf Suffers Tough Luck Loss The San Clemente girls golf team fired off a collective score of 208 against Tesoro in a league match at Coto de Caza Golf Course on Oct. 1. The 208 was the Tritons lowest score posted in five matches, dating back to Sept. 11. But it was not good enough to earn a win, as the Titans responded with a low round of their own to claim a 199-208 South Coast League victory.

The Tritons (4-3, 2-2) will host San Juan Hills in a league contest on Oct. 14. SC

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

The Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle was held at Salt Creek Beach on Oct. 4 and 5.

Photo: Tony Tribolet/www.xpsphoto.com

Locals Shine at Battle of the Paddle COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

T

he seventh annual Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle was held at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point for the first time in the event’s history on Oct. 4-5. The move from Doheny State Beach, where the event had been held in years past, caused many to learn the new layout on the fly.

Nevertheless, hundreds of the world’s most elite stand-up paddleboarders, and amateurs alike, descended upon the Dana Point shoreline to compete over the twoday stretch.

The Battle of the Paddle also features one of the largest prize purses on the SUP racing calendar. This year’s total purse was over $26,000.

There were several strong showings from San Clemente residents at the event.

San Clemente’s Candice Appleby won the Elite SUP Elite division with a time of 46:55, taking home the $3,000 first-place prize.

Rob Rojas finished first in the Distance SUP Individual event. Rojas, a San Clemente resident, looped the roughly 10.25mile course in 1:18:55, nearly two minutes ahead of the next closest competitor.

Here is a list of the top three finishers in each division, separated by gender: Men Distance Paddleboard Individual 1. Canon Smith 2. Max First 3. Ismael Garcia Women Distance Paddleboard Individual 1. Jo Ambrosi Men Distance SUP Elite 1. Danny Ching 2. Travis Grant 3. Beau O’Brian Women Distance SUP Elite 1. Lina Augaitis 2. Annabel Anderson 3. Fiona Wylde Men Distance SUP Individual 1. Rob Rojas 2. Brennan Rose 3. Bart De Zwart

San Clemente Times October 9-15, 2014

Stand-up paddleboard racers catch a wave at the Battle of the Paddle at Salt Creek Beach. Photo: Tony Tribolet/www.xpsphoto.com

Women Distance SUP Individual 1. Karla Gilbert 2. Silvia Mecucci 3. Marie Buchanan Men Elite SUP Elite 1. Kai Lenny 2. Jake Jensen 3. Danny Ching Women Elite SUP Elite 1. Candice Appleby 2. Lina Augaitis 3. Annabel Andersen Elite SUP Relay 1. Team Go Big or Go Huge 2. Team Lahui Kai 3. Team Rouge Boys SUP 8-Under 1. Blake Scheel 2. Curren Springer 3. Dash Springer Girls SUP 8-Under 1. Shyanne McWilliams 2. Abby Baker 3.

Malaya Ring Boys SUP 9-11 1. Jonas Graham 2. Matix Springer 3. Keagan Lamar Girls SUP 9-11 1. Payton Springer 2. Belah Ellis 3. Zoe Carter Boys SUP 12-14 1. Ryland Hart 2. Patrick Cleveland 3. Ryan Funk Girls SUP 12-14 1. Erika Benitez 2. Isabella Gomez 3. Kalia Alexiou Men Prone Paddleboard 1. Jack Bark 2. Shane Scoggins 3. Brian Murphy Women Prone Paddleboard 1. Julia Garcia 2. Morgan Hoesterey 3. Jo Ambrosi SUP Relay 1. Team 15! 2. Team Boga Paddleboards 3.

Team McPhillips Page 37

SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC Surf Team Starts Strong

San Clemente High School surf team defeats Dana Hills in season opener

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

he San Clemente High School surf team started their season with a bang on Tuesday, taking a win over cross-town rivals Dana Hills at Salt Creek Beach.

San Clemente came out on top in every division and coach John Dowell said the

victory is testament to how well his team is jelling so far.

“This year we have a real team focus,” he said. “Our team is full of talent but also more camaraderie than we’ve had in the past. With such positive energy I’m confident we will have a great year.”

Dowell commended all of the sur fers, with special recognition going out to Colin Deveze who won the final heat of the day in Boys shor tboard sealing the win in that division and topping of f the SC sweep.

He also pointed out great performances

by Noah Hohenester, Curran Dand, Kei Kobayashi and Nick Melanson. On the girls’ side, Dowell said he was also very pleased with Malia Osterkamp, Kirra Pinkerton, Kloee Openshaw, Kyla Kelley and Rachael Tilly. SC Colt Ward of San Clemente took a commanding win in Boys U18 at Surfing America Prime event No. 2, Oct. 4 at Church Beach. Photo: Jack McDaniel

Primed for Greatness Surfing America Prime at Church Beach sees seven local finalists taking home the hardware

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

The San Clemente High School surf team started their season off with a win Tuesday, beating Dana Hills at Salt Creek Beach. Photo: Joe Hohenester

GROM OF THE WEEK

KEVIN KRAATZ Age: 10 School: Capistrano Virtual School Kevin Kraatz is fairly new to competitive surfing—having been in only two events— and already has a win under his belt. He took top honors Sunday at the San Clemente Sea Fest Surf Contest in the 10 and under division in surf that was, at times, double overhead for the stoked fifth-grader.

“I felt super excited and really relieved,” Kevin said. “I was pretty nervous. I got to surf against all of my friends who are better than me so I felt very accomplished that I did so well. I really didn’t expect it at all. I charged the big waves because I wanted to win so badly and any wave I saw I just went for it.”

Kevin has only been surfing for about a year, and it’s been about five months since he’s been paddling out to the lineup by himself and catching his own waves. Before that, his dad was pushing him into small waves on the inside, he said. Now he practices every day.

“My brother is 13 and a surfer,” he said.

“I was hanging out with him and his friends San Clemente Times October 9-15, 2014

he Surfing America invitation only Prime series came home for event No. 2 on Oct. 4 and local competitors took full advantage.

The weather was hot and so was the surfing at San Onofre State Park’s Church Beach. The showdown, pitting some of the country’s best U18 surfers vying for spots in the Surfing America USA Championships and ultimately Team USA, provided a great stage for local talent.

Home break advantage coupled with abundant waves in the 4- to 6-foot range made for a great show among all of the competitors and finals appearances by tri-city-based surfers who claimed seven of the 20 trophies.

SURF RESULTS Key: SC=San Clemente, DP=Dana Point, SJC=San Juan Capistrano.

Kevin Kraatz. Photo: Courtesy

and thought, ‘If he can do it, I can do it.’ I wanted to be like my brother. It motivated me because I didn’t want to be just watching. I wanted to do what they were doing.”

Kevin’s other interests include playing water polo for his club team, Vanguard Aquatics in Huntington Beach and being a member of the San Clemente State Junior Lifeguards in the summer.

His goals include getting his first job as a lifeguard, playing water polo in college, someday earning a spot on the U.S. Water Polo Team and surfing professionally.

“I like surfing because it’s fun, but not easy,” Kevin said. “It’s hard and I like the challenge. I also like surfing with my friends and hanging out.”—Andrea Swayne

Page 38

Surfing America Prime, Event No. 2, October 4, San Onofre State Park BOYS U18: 1. Colt Ward, SC; 2. Cole Houshmand, SC; 3.

Jake Davis, CB; 4. Jordy Collins. GIRLS U18: 1. Tia Blanco, SC; 2. Malia Osterkamp, SC; 3. Caroline Marks, Florida; 4.

Ashley Held, Santa Cruz. BOYS U16: 1. Sean Woods, Ventura; 2. Cole Houshmand, SC; 3. Nick Marshall, Encinitas; 4. Tyler Gunter, Newport Beach. GIRLS U16: 1. Caroline Marks, Florida; 2. Meah Collins, Costa Mesa; 3. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla; 4. Cameron Duby, SJC. BOYS U14: 1.

Nick Marshall, Encinitas; 2. Tommy McKeown, Oxnard; 3.

Noah Hill, Venice; 4. Sage Burke, Newport Beach.

WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 2, Donnie Solomon Memorial, September 20-21, Ventura, Surfers Point MICRO GROM BOYS U9: 1. Maddox Bray, SC; 5. Makai Bray, SC. MICRO GROM GIRLS U10: 1. Bella Kenworthy, DP; 2. Sawyer Lindblad, SC. BOYS/GIRLS U10: 1. Dane

San Clementeans Colt Ward and Tia Blanco earned top honors in the U18 divisions for their powerful and confident performances. Malia Osterkamp, also from San Clemente, delivered a runner-up finish in Girls U18 that gave Blanco a run for her money and Cole Houshmand’s double division work earned him secondplace trophies in Boys U18 and U16. Jake Davis of Capo Beach made the top three in Boys U18 taking home a third-place trophy and Cameron Duby of San Juan Capistrano came in fourth in Girls U16.

The next Prime event is set for December 13-14 at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point, followed by Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane on January 10 and 11. SC

Matson, SC. BOYS U12: 1. Nicholas Coli, SC; 2. Dane Matson, SC. BOYS U16: 4. Noah Hohenester, SC. GIRLS U14: 1. Kirra Pinkerton, SC. GIRLS U18: 2. Malia Ward, SC; 4. Samantha Sibley, SC; 6. Cameron Duby, SJC. BOYS LONGBOARD U14: 3. Patrick O’Connor, SJC; 4. Jimmy Wynne, SC; 5. Brandon Rodgers, SC; 6. Jack Collins, SC. JR. LONGBOARD U18: 1. Kevin Skvarna, SJC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U14: 3. Lexi Morgan, SC; 4. Izzy Hopkins, DP; 5. Malia Mauch, SC. GIRLS LONGBOARD U18: 3.

Teresa O’Connor, SJC; 5. Cameron Duby, SJC. MASTERS 30-39: 4. Jimmy Bray, SC. LEGENDS 50-59: 2. Masaki Kobayashi, SC. OPEN WOMEN: 3. Malia Ward, SC; 5.

Lulu Erkeneff, DP. OPEN MEN LONGBOARD: 3. Kevin Skvarna, SJC. OPEN WOMEN LONGBOARD : 1. Lulu Erkeneff, DP. NSSA Southwest Conference Open, Event No. 1, September 20-21, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty MEN: 2. Griffin Colapinto, SC. JUNIORS: 1. Cole Houshmand, SC; 4. Gunner Day, SC. BOYS: 1.

Sebastian Mendes, SC; 2. Jett Schilling, SC; 4. Kade Matson, SC. MINI GROMS: 2. Ryder Salberg, SC; 3.

Dax McPhillips, SC. WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, SC; 3.

Malia Osterkamp, SC. GIRLS: 1. Bethany Zelasko, DP; 4. Samantha Sibley, SC.