January 7, 2016

LO C A L

N EWS

January 7–13, 2016

YO U

C A N

Inside: South County Real Estate Guide

U S E

SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 11, ISSUE 1

2016: On the Horizon

Looking ahead at things to come in the new year EYE ON SC/PAGE 4

Mayor Bob Baker was appointed by the San Clemente City Council in December.

Baker also served as the mayor in 2013. Photo: Eric Heinz

Short-Term Rental Moratorium May Not be Valid EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

Nationally Known Underwear Business Began in San Clemente SC LIVING/PAGE 26

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Wrestling Duo Excels for SCHS Triton Team SPORTS/PAGE 28

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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week Council’s Moratorium on Short-Term Rentals Invalid THE LATEST: At the Jan. 5 City Council meeting, the temporary moratorium on short-term rentals was voted 3-2, but it was not announced whether the moratorium had been approved. On Wednesday morning, Mayor Bob Baker emailed the San Clemente Times and said the moratorium needed a four-fifths majority vote.

City staff was still working on the issue as of Wednesday morning. Unlike other ordinances, emergency interim moratoriums need that majority in order to comply with state and local law.

During the meeting, as many as 40 people voiced their opinion during the public forum. Most of the issues brought forth addressed the same or similar issues as have been discussed: noise complaints, foul language from short-term renters, drug use, drinking, excessive partying and the like.

Those who opposed the ordinance defended their position, saying they have been in compliance with the city’s codes, paying their transient occupancy tax and not facilitating odious guests.

Councilmembers said they recognized the issues on both sides but acknowledged that no one said there was a perfect system in place.

Some unusual data was brought forth during the meeting. A chart showing the number of complaints in the last year from short-term rentals was compiled by the city’s Finance Department, not Code Compliance, which is usually the department that oversees the issues. Complaints from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department also had not been compiled. In order to find out who is violating the city’s current codes, the city would have to match the complaints OCSD responds to with the addresses that have filed for a short-term rental permit.

Many people who spoke during the public forum also mentioned a lot of the short-term rentals have been popping up in southwest San Clemente. Homeowners associations in the areas have restrictions against short-term rentals but because the city gave them the permit, homeowners conducted business as such. City staff members said they would look into facilitating a process that prevents this in the future.

San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

WHAT’S NEXT: The moratorium would have lasted 45 days from the day of its adoption. Depending on what happens next, the city may or may not revisit the moratorium, city officials said. —Eric Heinz

More Rain Expected for San Clemente THE LATEST: As of Wednesday, Jan. 6, flash flood warnings were in effect until 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, but according to NASA, the effects of El Niño weather patterns are not showing signs of letting up anytime soon. Long-term forecasts predict more rain in the following week.

WHAT’S NEXT: More information and up-to-date forecasts can be found at www. forecast.weather.gov by searching for the San Clemente area. —EH

City Aims to Protect or Alter Bus Routes THE LATEST: A recent proposal by Orange County Transportation Authority would cut bus routes 191 and 193 out of San Clemente.

Councilwoman Lori Donchak said although there is a need for the routes, the current rider numbers are not enough for OCTA to continue some of them. However, Donchak also said some of the stops are near San Clemente High School and other important locations.

People who spoke during the public forum of the issue said they have family members with disabilities who utilize the routes and it gives them independence.

WHAT’S NEXT: Councilors said if the routes have to be scrapped, perhaps they could alter the routes to incentivize a larger number of people to ride. The city will send the letter to OCTA to persuade them to work with the city. Another option could be to couple the routes with independent transportation providers.—EH

Medical Marijuana Ban Stamped by Council THE LATEST: Although City Council members said they would have liked more time to examine the issues regarding medical marijuana regulation within its boundaries, the deadline to enact local enforcement had passed. The council voted unanimously to ban commercial outlets, testing facilities and delivery services of medical marijuana.

WHAT’S NEXT: During the public forum, some people said the March 1 deadline, put forth by state legislation, could be

A truck splashes through a puddle on Tuesday, Jan. 5, at the intersection of Camino Capistrano and Avenida Vaquero after a deluge of rain brought on by weather most likely a result of El Niño. Photo: Eric Heinz

amended, but until that happens the city would have to comply with the outstanding legislation.—EH

OCASA Appeals to OCDE, Announces Open Enrollment Dates THE LATEST: After failing to receive a majority approval in December from the Capistrano Unified School District, the Orange County Academy of Sciences and Arts charter school has submitted its petition for approval to the Orange County Department of Education in an effort to open its doors this fall in the south Orange County area.

On Dec. 9, the CUSD Board of Trustees voted 3-3-1 to effectively deny a petition to establish OCASA within the school district. CUSD staff’s recommendation to the board was to reject the petition due to issues including an “unsound educational program” and legal concerns.

The three trustees who voted against denying the petition noted at the Dec. 9 meeting that OCASA had the option to send its petition to the county and said the county would likely approve the petition, which would eliminate any oversight the district would have had in the process. While OCASA’s petition mentions interest in a San Clemente or San Juan Capistrano school site, representatives have repeatedly said the charter is

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not looking to displace one of the district’s current schools.

According to an email from OCASA representatives, the OCDE Board accepted the charter’s “appeals package” on Dec. 16. OCASA will make a presentation to the board on Jan. 13, and the board is expected to vote on the charter’s appeal on Feb. 11.

WHAT’S NEXT: In the meantime, OCASA has announced the beginning of the school’s open enrollment for the 2016-2017 school year. Enrollment began Jan. 6 and ends Feb. 28. Interested parents need to attend an information meeting before applying for enrollment.

Meetings are set to take place on Jan. 16 at 4 p.m. at Mathnasium in San Clemente, located at 1001 Avenida Pico; on Jan. 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Keller Williams Realty in Mission Viejo, located at 27101 Puerta Real, Suite 150; and on Jan. 30 at 4 p.m. at Capo Beach Church, located at 25975 Domingo Avenue in Capistrano Beach. More dates will be announced in February.

For more information about the charter school, visit www.ocasacharter.org.

—Allison Jarrell

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EYE ON SC was published in November.

“I can’t wait to cut that ribbon,” Baker said.

The La Pata extension is expected to finish in the fall.

The Pico extension, a 5.7-mile $275 million project that will expand the I-5 between Avenida Pico in San Clemente and San Juan Creek Road in San Juan Capistrano, has had intermittent closures to I-5 on- and off-ramps and will continue through 2018. The project will add a carpool lane in both directions on I-5 between Avenida Pico and San Juan Creek Road, improve the sight distance on the southbound horizontal curve north of PCH, reconstruct the interchange at Avenida Pico to widen the northbound Avenida Pico on-ramp to three lanes, and provide dual left-turn lanes to both northbound and southbound Avenida Pico on-ramps. It will also add sound walls. More information and updates can be found at www.octa.net under I-5 South County Improvements.

Hospital bills AB 911 and SB 787 will be heard by legislative health committees on Jan. 12 and 13. The city has examined alternatives to providing a healthcare facility in San Clemente should the bills to allow for freestanding emergency rooms not pass. Photo: File

Looking Ahead to 2016

I

constantly get good scores when anyone goes to rate them.”

Good ratings or not, the hospital officials have said for more than a year they cannot keep the hospital functioning at its current capacity as there are not enough inpatient customers as there once were.

“The city can only encourage them to be our healthcare provider and to be a good nonprofit to serve the citizens of not just San Clemente but also Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano,” Baker said. “There’s a study that says when a hospital closes, the region has between a 5 and 15 percent increase in mortality rates because of the impacts on the hospitals that are now impacted.”

San Clemente Hospital Residents won’t have to look too far ahead for the latest development of Saddleback Memorial hospital in San Clemente. The two bills to allow for a freestanding emergency room under an accredited health care provider will be heard Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 12 and 13, by state Senate and Assembly committees.

Last legislative session, the bills failed to make it to the floor of either the Senate or the Assembly.

“The best we can hope for is that Saddleback Memorial will put some money into upgrading our hospital and our emergency room,” Baker said. “They

I-5, Avenida La Pata Between Interstate 5 and Avenida La Pata, residents in San Clemente and those who pass through are eyeing the completion of some of the city’s most significant roadways. Avenida La Pata will connect San Clemente to San Juan Capistrano, opening up a new arterial passage not just for travelers but for business and emergency transportation.

Baker said the La Pata project has been discussed for at least 25 years.

“Some things we’re going to see are hopefully the traffic situation on the freeway will finish up,” Baker said. “I think finishing La Pata is going to be one of the great things for our city—it’s going to take a lot of pressure off that freeway where we need some pressure taken off. I can’t wait.”

During the next few months, the La Pata Gap Connector phase will progress as crews continue work on drainage improvements, utility relocations, paving, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, bridge construction and landfill improvements,” according to the latest OCTA La Pata update, which

Mayor discusses some of the future issues, projects of San Clemente

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

n the coming days, weeks and months, San Clemente will have a number of issues to tackle and expects to see some projects come to fruition. Longawaited infrastructure and amenities of the city will finally be completed, and the changing policies City Council is currently undertaking could shape the future of San Clemente.

Mayor Bob Baker spoke with the San Clemente Times on Monday to examine what the city can expect to see in 2016.

San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

Ole Hanson Beach Club Reopening A historic landmark in San Clemente, the Ole Hanson Beach Club is nearing the completion of its renovations. After the city found major issues with the structure, it was determined the club would have to be closed for a period of time.

Although the Ole Hanson Beach Club renovation was expected to cost about $1.2 million, the city kept finding more problems, such as materials that weren’t water-resistant or dilapidated and needed to be replaced. The total cost of the project is now expected to be close to $5 million, with an optimistic opening in May. City officials said there are already waiting lists for swimming lessons and reservations for the club for when it opens.

The club has been closed since 2012.

“We’re doing this right,” Baker said.

“The public is eagerly awaiting the reopening, and I am too. The positives are that it’s going to be a first-class building.”

The club is expected to be open yearround.

Water Rates and Drought The water use reduction mandates set

by Gov. Jerry Brown last year have had cities and water districts all over California scrambling to find ways to reduce their use. San Clemente residents have cut their use per the state’s 24 percent mandate, down to 31 percent at one point, but in November and December, the reductions may not have been enough.

At the Jan. 5, City Council meeting, the city voted to reduce the penalties on people who overuse their water in certain tiers. For higher tiers, the penalties are now $4 per unit over instead of $10, and $2 instead of $4 for lower tiers. City staff members said the near $1 million collected in penalties thus far will be put to water conservation efforts, but they were initially collected to pay for any fines the city may have incurred from the state. So far, only four municipalities have received fines by the state for “gross negligence,” staff members said.

“I was surprised by the amount of fines, and we thought it was going to have more of an effect on people who are not reducing their water use,” Baker said. “It’s just a fraction of these people who are being penalized. The positive part of it is the citizens of San Clemente have stepped up and done something about it.”

Baker said the city has been working diligently to use as much recycled water as possible. Whether the governor extends the water reduction mandates remains to be seen. SC

Notable Items to Expect in 2016 Completion of the PCH bikeway City Council election in November End of the sober-living facility, home establishment moratorium San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station deconstruction continues

A bicyclist pedals next to the edge of the Pacific Coast Highway. The PCH bikeway is expected to be completed in the fall. Photo: File

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EYE ON SC

Community NEWS BITES San Clemente Artist Meetings Selected to National COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10

San Clemente Farmers Market

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday.

Avenida Del Mar. TUESDAY, JANUARY 12

Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting

6 p.m. The San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission conducts its regularly scheduled meeting at 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8230, www.san-clemente.org.

Sunrise Rotary

7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Course Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega, www.scsunriserotary.com.

San Clemente Toastmasters

7 p.m. The club meets with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for networking time. San Clemente Baha’i Center, 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 805.794.0653, www.sanclementetoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13

San Clemente Rotary

Noon. The San Clemente Rotary meets at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.233.7981, www.sanclementerotary.org.

San Clemente Kiwanis

Noon. The San Clemente Kiwanis meet most Wednesdays for lunch at Tommy’s Restaurant. 1409 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.5423, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

Painting Competition

San Clemente-based landscape painter Rick J. Delanty has recently been selected to participate in the Maui Plein Air Painting Invitational, hosted by The Village Galleries in Lahaina on the island of Maui.

This year, 26 painters will be participating—17 from Maui and nine from the mainland. Other nationally recognized California artists participating in the 2016 event include Jacobus Baas, Debra Huse, Greg LaRock, Jim McVicker, Clark Mitchell, Mian Situ and Jim Wodark. The artists will be painting at different locations across the island from Feb. 13 to 21.

The selection committee has orchestrated several events during the week to connect the community with the working artists. Jean Stern, executive director of the Irvine Museum, will lecture on pleinair painting and will also be the awards judge for the event. There will be “quickdraws” (timed painting events of two to three hours) during which spectators can watch the artists at work.

Delanty has participated in several plein-air invitationals across the western United States, including eight selections for the Laguna Beach Plein Air Painting Invitational, three in Sedona, Borrego Springs and San Luis Obispo. His most recent invitation is to the 30-artist “Inspired by Sorolla” exhibition at the Forest & Ocean Gallery to be shown this month in Laguna Beach. More information about the Hawaiian invitational may be found at www.mauipleinair.org. Delanty’s work may be viewed at www.delantyfineart.com.

Human Trafficking Awareness Starts Jan. 11 At 11 a.m. on Jan 11, people are asked to wear blue (the international color for human trafficking awareness) and meet at Cafe Calypso, 110 Avenida Del Mar, for

Rick Delanty’s painting “Hana Coast” is an example of the coastal plein-air art he creates.

Photo: Courtesy of Rick Delanty

HT Awareness Day for coffee and conversation. There is no program or speaker, just the chance start the conversation and spread the word about the issue. Any HT fighter or group can come and bring their materials to share and to educate our community.

At 6 p.m. on Jan. 28, the San Clemente Interfaith Coalition quarterly meeting will be at Our Lady of Fatima, 105 N. La Esperanza. Speakers include Linh Tran of the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force, a survivor of HT, and Kenny Torres, the faith-based coordinator for the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Orange County, who will discuss how the mentorship of youth builds their self-esteem and is a preventative against exploitation and trafficking risk.

City Asks Residents to Write to Legislators About Hospital Bills The City Council of San Clemente published a press release asking residents to write letters to their legislators in support of Senate Bill 787 (Bates) and Assembly Bill 911 (Brough), which would authorize a satellite emergency department at the current location of the Saddleback Memorial Hospital San Clemente Campus. AB 911 is set to be heard in the State Capitol before the Assembly Health Committee on

Tuesday, Jan. 12. SB 787 is expected to be heard before the Senate Health Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 13. Members of the City Council will appear before these policy committees to testify in support of these bills.

“When the City of San Clemente became aware of the potential closure of the Saddleback Memorial Hospital San Clemente Campus in late 2014, the City took immediate steps to understand the impacts, seek community input, involve stakeholders and seek plans to mitigate this potential impact to the city,” the release stated. “Approval of these bills will help ensure south Orange County residents are able to retain access to quality healthcare and not be forced to travel 15 miles north on the I-5 Freeway to access the nearest Emergency Department—a road in which the access and travel time is uncertain due to traffic congestions and road construction.”

Letters can be sent to State Sen. Patricia Bates and Assemblyman Bill Brough’s respective staff at Kevin.Bassett@sen.ca.gov and Jeff Montejano at: jeff.montejano@ asm.ca.gov.

Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY STAFF

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher.

The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Monday, January 4 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Ola Vista, 2000 Block (12:47 p.m.) A caller said three men were moving items out of a residence and it “didn’t look right.”

The caller did not know who lives at the residence.

WELFARE CHECK Via Cascadita, 2700 Block (10:59 a.m.) Police were called regarding a man who was out of his wheelchair and sitting on the ground in a parking spot.

The caller was concerned the man might get hit.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Via Arboleda, 2700 Block (4:59 a.m.) A man, described to be in his 30s and 5 feet 9

inches tall, was at the back door of a location mumbling numbers and names.

Sunday, January 3 TRAFFIC HAZARD Calle Vallarta, 700 Block (8:01 p.m.) A man and a woman were seen putting unknown items in the street for cars to hit.

and to call the sheriff’s department.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Princesa/Ola Vista (1:33 p.m.)

A man was seen taking pictures of garages and walking slowly down the street.

A woman said a man was screaming he was going to “come after” her. The man was described as possibly having mental issues.

ILLEGAL PEDDLING Avenida San Juan, 300 Block (2:36 p.m.) A caller said two teenagers were selling gift cards for San Clemente High School, but the caller said the two did not know the mascot of the school.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via Suerte, 800 Block (5:26 p.m.) Police were called to deal with a “dangerous beehive.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Mariposa, 200 Block (1:08 p.m.) A man approached another man’s door and told him he was trying to get into the residence and threatened him. The man inside said he did not know the other man.

WELFARE CHECK Vista Encanta, 0 Block (4:08 p.m.) A caller from Illinois said their daughter had called and was screaming into the phone until the line was disconnected.

DISTURBANCE El Portal, 100 Block (12:48 p.m.) A caller said a man near a white Chevy pickup truck with surfboards on top threw water balloons at their vehicle and then followed the caller home.

DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (3:10 p.m.) A woman in the emergency room called about a man who was believed to be on meth and he said he had questions, but it was unknown what kind of questions. She said the man was being confrontational and made suicidal statements.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 1200 Block (5:07 a.m.) A man dragged another man out of a car, hit him and then ran away.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Del Mar, 200 Block (12:01 a.m.) A woman said a man was hit on the head with a bottle and was bleeding. A 26-year-old woman who works as a receptionist was arrested in the incident and has since been released.

Saturday, January 2

Thursday, December 31

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Felipe, 1300 Block (5:29 p.m.) A caller said an unknown man, described to be in his 30s and 5 feet 10 inches tall, was wandering around the neighborhood the last two days, smoking and sitting in the bushes.

CITIZEN ASSIST El Camino Real, 3700 Block (6:22 p.m.) A man in the front lobby was apparently lost and unable to give an address as to where he needed to be.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino La Pedriza/Corte Cristianitos (2:28 p.m.) A man asked a woman to use her phone to call a rehabilitation facility.

The woman said the rehab facility called her back and told her the man was “crazy”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (5:05 p.m.)

Friday, January 1 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Pico, 900 Block (9:10 p.m.) A woman was heard screaming she was going to “kill someone.”

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Lobeiro, 200 Block (5:30 p.m.) A man was yelling obscenities and making sexual gestures.

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: City Council Corner by Councilman Chris Hamm

Support Keeping San Clemente Emergency Room

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

S

HOW TO REACH US

ince Saddleback Memorial Care first announced in 2014 its plans to close San Clemente Hospital and turn it into an urgent care, my fellow councilmembers and I have remained committed to finding a way to maintain an emergency room in San Clemente.

Joining us in our pursuit is Senator Pat Bates and Assemblyman Bill Brough, who introduced near-identical legislation in their respective governing bodies to facilitate a dialogue with their colleagues on this important issue. Senator Bates authored Senate Bill 787, and Assemblyman Brough sponsored Assembly Bill 911.

Both bills are scheduled for hearings on Jan. 12 and 13 and are intended to authorize Saddleback Memorial to operate a stand-alone emergency room at its current location.

Saddleback Memorial’s plans for an urgent care facility are pending while these bills are being heard. It is important to note only a licensed acute care hospital can operate an emergency room under California law. Under the current law, Saddleback Memorial cannot delicense the acute care hospital in order to transform the campus while still keeping the emergency room open. I know the importance of having an emergency room in San Clemente, and I have seen firsthand the difference it makes between life and death. This is why I have

Letters to the Editor NEW WATER RATE PENALTIES ARE ILLEGAL BRAD MALAMUD, San Clemente

These penalties, regardless of the amount, are illegal. All collected penalties should immediately be refunded to avoid expensive and unnecessary litigation. The recent Court of Appeal decision states that penalties cannot act as rate substitutes.

The city has not, as yet, been penalized.

Mr. Rendina’s Agenda Report states that the penalties are being held in reserve “to pay fines if assessed and to compel additional conservation efforts.”

1. To date, there have been no state penalties. Thus, even if at a later date the city is fined, those who have already paid the penalties are not the responsible party and using their penalties to pay the future San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

been steadfast in doing everything I can to preserve access for our residents, and those in our neighboring cities of Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, who have come to depend on this emergency room for more than 40 years.

Your City Council continues to support the proposed legislation, and representatives plan on attending and submitting testimony at the legislative hearings. We remain dedicated to continuing our efforts to ensure the needs of our community are not compromised.

However, because we cannot predict the outcome, it is imperative CITY COUNCIL that we consider possible CORNER alternatives should the

By Chris Hamm legislation not pass. The City has discussed the potential rezoning of the current location and directed City staff at its Nov. 3 City Council meeting to prepare a rezone and General Plan amendment to ensure that the current hospital property is zoned only for the essential hospital purpose it was designated for when purchased by Saddleback Memorial Care in 2007. Other options include the consideration of other prospective hospital suitors to provide hospital and emergency department services.

My grandfather was born in San Clemente Hospital in 1930, our community recognized the need for advanced medical care then and we still continue to see the need today. When I ran for City Council four years ago I stressed the importance of public safety for our community, and today I will do whatever it takes to ensure our citizens get the best medical services possible.

I cannot stress enough the importance of this community issue for our overall safety and wellbeing. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: this is the most important issue facing our community. Please join me and countless other South County residents by supporting the SOS group Save our Hospital. They are dedicated to protecting emergency care access for all.

I always enjoy hearing from you, so please email me your thoughts or concerns at HammC@san-clemente.org or call me at 949.361.8322. Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy 2016!

Chris Hamm is a City Councilman for San Clemente. He was elected to Council in 2012 and served as the mayor in 2015. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

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fines has no fiscal connection.

2. If somebody was assessed at penalty, then they were not “compelled” to conserve. Again the penalty was wrongly assessed.

Mr. Rendina states the penalties will not be used for operating expenses. That takes us right back to the case law. Thus, the penalties cannot be justified.

This shows how absurd these penalties are. First, how can the city create over $1 million in programs to “assist these customers?”

Second, there is no evidence that those who are penalized have not already conserved more than the 24 percent required.

In fact, the penalties are not related in any way to conservation. The penalties apply regardless of former water use.

Again, the newly revised, and lowered, penalty rates are still illegal, as were the previous higher rates. First, no such penalty is assessed against commercial water users, regardless of the amount of water used. For this reason alone,

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Jan. 8 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Eric Heinz every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.

the penalties are not properly assessed against everyone, as required. Second, the penalties cannot be assessed because the city is reaching its conservation goals and is not penalized. Third, the law does not allow penalty funds once collected to be then used for some as yet unknown expense. Fourth, the penalties apply even if, for example, the user actually reduced his/ her use by even 50 percent. Thus, the penalties are not related in any way to (Cont. on page 12)

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

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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Melissa Calvano Debra Holm Tim Trent

San Clemente Times, Vol. 11, Issue 1. 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 2016. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 10) “conservation.” Fifth, penalties are based in part on an illegal allocation so that four users living on the same street would have from $0 to a very expensive penalty even though they are using the exact same amount of water. This is illegal.

FAMILY COMES TO OFFER TASTIER LUNCHES FOR CHILDREN FREDA D’SOUZA, San Clemente

My three children—twin boys Sean and Trevor and their younger sister, Marissa Counceller—were in the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, growing up in San Clemente from 1996 until 2004.

As a single mom with multinational public relations clients requiring numerous product launches and tradeshows, my children traveled the world with me until they were 6 years old and were enrolled in school in San Clemente. When they were “grounded” during the elementary school years and unable to travel, they were angry and combative.

The Boys & Girls Club staff and interaction with other children helped them cope with the only reality I could provide.

Today all three of my children are grateful for the experience of being “forced” to participate in the Boys & Girls Club.

Sharing, caring, listening, acknowledging, being grateful, participating in sports, fun, games, arts and crafts—these are the things my children remember. I treasure the first watercolor painting my daughter

did for me at the B&GC in 2007.

I asked about their meals at the club back in the day just to find out what they were served and they unanimously said, “Yuck.”

“Mom, it’s worse than box food,” my son Trevor said.

I asked, “What’s box food?”

“It’s stuff that you take from the freezer and put in the microwave to eat as an easy meal,” his twin brother Sean chimed in.

So, I’ve come full circle. We’ve been able to provide tastier lunches for the children.

Ole Hanson would be smiling, my children are smiling, B&GC kids run after me in the grocery store like I’m some rock star for making them lunches they love, and our new group and sponsors made it all work this 2015 holiday season.

Best wishes for a wonderful safe, healthy and happy Christmas. May 2016 bring you and your family everything that means the most to you.

LET’S MAKE 2016 THE YEAR TO STOP RECKLESS NUCLEAR POLICY GARY HEADRICK, San Clemente

This issue will be better understood once you’ve had a chance to watch what may be regarded as one of the most significant movies of 2015, The Big Short. The film explains just how the housing crash of 2008 came about, leaving the masses holding the bag while those responsible ran off with our homes and hard-earned savings,

never to be held accountable.

Basically, Wall Street bankers gambled with our livelihoods while regulators looked the other way, denying any possibility of a “bubble.” They knew all along that eventually the government (you and me) would have to bail them out once the truth was no longer avoidable. The same kind of scenario is unfolding in the nuclear industry today, specifically at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.

Our “bubble” consists of tons of radioactive materials being stored in containers that are known to be susceptible to cracking, possibly within just a few short years from now. Hard evidence of dirty little secrets and unscrupulous activities have been uncovered by those who are really paying attention, while countless innocent and unwary people stand in harm’s way.

Like Wall Street, Edison and its cronies seem anxious to stick us with the risk while they reap the profits. They intend to bury 89 times more radiation than was released in the Chernobyl accident, and will do so in sandstone bluffs 100 feet from the Pacific Ocean and only inches above the water table, using inferior stainless steel tanks only a half-inch thick, surrounded by concrete. Apparently, the industry’s objective is to meet the minimum standards (already lowered by its captured regulators) and get all the waste into dry cask storage before any radiation begins to escape these cheaper, thin canisters.

(Other countries use containers 10 to

20 inches thick.) At that point, the waste becomes the taxpayer’s problem. Should there be a leak, it would be too late to move the highly radioactive waste, and 8.5 million people living within 50 miles could be left stranded and exposed.

Those who saw the inevitable defaults coming in 2008 invested wisely by betting against the banks, but we can’t afford to win a bet resulting in all of us becoming irradiated. Instead, we need to invest in the best storage system possible with many layers of redundant safety features, adequate emergency handling capabilities and a realistic plan to relocate this menacing waste ASAP. The appalling truth is that these already-approved plans have been made by people who are either currently under investigation or should be (see www.sanonofresafety.org).

Let’s make 2016 the year we stop a plan that would shift liability from a reckless nuclear power industry to the public, leaving us with the consequences. We must stand together and call for responsible steps to be taken to protect ourselves and our precious planet. We can’t let the insidious desires of selfish and unrepentant fools, like those who propped up the lies of Wall Street, pop this bubble. It’s not just financial; it’s radioactive!

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@sanclementetimes.com.

San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit readersubmitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers.

Please limit your letters to 350 words.

MLS# OC1525264

2401 Plaza a la Playa, San Clemente SURF, SEA AND SAND are abundant in this Captivating Ocean View Home within Steps of the Shore. An Enchanting Entrance through Security Gates Lead to the Grand Foyer which Showcases the Versatility and Creative Design of Multiple Living areas and Private Family Retreat Space, including a Detached Guest Casita. Design of Multiple Living areas and Private Family Retreat Space, including a Detached Guest Casita.

• Newly Constructed in 2010, Showcasing Profession and Local Architect and Builders.

• Main House Living Features Ocean View Living & Dining, Entertaining, and Master Bedroom with

Romantic Fireplace of Imported Italian Stone.

• Master Bath encased in Italian Marble with Spa Tub and Oversized Shower • Sliding Glass Doors Open to the Panoramic Viewing Decks, Extending the Indoor/Outdoor Living area.

• Designer touches include Venetian Plaster Finished Walls, High Beam Vaulted Ceilings, Hardwood Floors

throughout.

• Gourmet Kitchen with Granite Counter tops, Stainless

Steel Viking Appliances and Separate Laundry Room.

• Complete separate living area include 3 Large

Bedrooms and 2 Full Baths, Kitchen and Laundry Area, Family Room, with Sliding Glass Doors • 1 Bedroom Casita Perched over the 3 Car Garage adds further Guest Options to the Family Home Enjoyment.

• Separate Heating and Air Conditioning Systems Service all Individual Living Space • Water Fountains, Pool and Professional Landscaping Compliment the Yard and Gardens.

5 bedrooms • 4.5 bathrooms • Offered at $4,290,000 Please contact Dave Barlet or Marcie George for your Private Showing Marcie George, REALTOR® MarcieGeorge@cox.net (949) 690-5410 CA BRE# 1466163

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SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK

Photo: Courtesy of Alison Richards

PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS CASTING CALL FRIDAY, JAN. 8 THROUGH SUNDAY, JAN. 10 If you can stand still for 90 seconds, you could experience what it’s like to be a living piece of art and volunteer for the renowned Pageant of the Masters in Laguna Beach.

In preparation of the 2016 show, the Pageant is looking for men, women and children to volunteer. People of all sizes and ages are needed to be cast members in the world’s most famous presentation of tableaux vivants. Casting call will be held at the Irvine Bowl Park, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, on Friday, Jan. 8, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, Jan. 9, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 10, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3663, www.foapom.com/pageant-of-the-masters.

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 07 TERRY VALLES & FRIENDS 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s.

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

Friday | 08 WINTER BALLROOM BASH— NEW LOCATION 7:30 p.m. Admission $10 per person.

Singles and couples 18 and over. Enclosed patio with plenty of tables and chairs with brief East Coast Swing dance lessons shortly after 7:30 p.m. followed by open dancing until 10:30 p.m. Soft drinks and refreshments included. Community Presbyterian Church, 32202 Del Obispo, San Juan Capistrano, www.ballroombash.com THE ARTS PROJECT OC: AUDITIONS FOR ‘BIG!’ THE MUSICAL 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 8 or 9 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 9. Ages 10-18. Callbacks will be from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. The Arts Page 20

Project of Orange County, 1317 Calle Avanzado, San Clemente, 949.276.2787, www.theartsprojectoc.com.

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM 7:30 p.m. Open mic night for anyone who wants to join. People can play in a band or come to listen. Musicians are asked to send an email to tac28@cox.net beforehand as space is limited. Community Outreach Alliance, 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, 949.388.0114 ext. 205, www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

LOUIE ANDERSON 8 p.m. Louie Anderson performs live comedy at The Coach House with Cindy Burns. Tickets are $25. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

Saturday | 09 NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: THE BEAUTY WITHIN 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mindful Her, a San Clemente-based company that aims to inspire and empower women to take their mindful and healthy living experiences to the next level, is encouraging women to take a more mindful approach to setting New Year’s resolutions in 2016. Seven Degrees, 891 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, 310.498.7585, www.mindfulher.com.

(Cont. on page 23) www.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 20) UNCORK! YOUR INNER ARTIST WITH LEE WANDERER 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Paint “A Better World” by Peter Max with music, wine and instruction. Bring friends and wine, and the studio has everything else. $45 per person.

San Clemente Art Supply and Framing, 1531 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

DJ AND DANCING 9:30 p.m. Dance the night away as the DJ spins the tunes every Saturday night.

The Point Restaurant, 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Sunday | 10 CAPT. DAVE’S WHALE WATCHING Times vary. Get up close to marine life aboard a Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari trip. 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.488.2828, www.dolphinsafari.com.

Monday | 11 PJ STORYTIME 6:30 p.m-7:30 p.m. An energetic reading event hosted by the National Charity League Sunshine Readers for children of all ages at the San Juan Capistrano Library. Pajamas are welcome but not required. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Tuesday | 12 OPEN MIC NIGHT 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

WINTER AFTER-SCHOOL CLUB 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Winter After-School Club series runs on Tuesdays from Jan. 5 through Feb. 23. The After-School Club is for children ages 5 and older, with stories and crafts. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org/libloc/sc

Wednesday | 13 LECTURE: FUN WITH FUNGI 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Join The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo and explore the fascinating world of wild mushrooms with amateur mycologist Joanne Schwartz.

Learn how to find and identify fungi in Southern California and beyond. Free.

Ages 8 and up. RMV Presentation Center, call for directions, 949.489.9778, www.rmvreserve.org.

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

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

At the Movies: ‘The Big Short’ Long on Stock Market Literacy

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

L

ately there has been a growing trend of biopics centered on white, middle-age, scumbag businessmen making shady business decisions to benefit themselves. 2013 gave us the successful satires American Hustle and The Wolf of Wall Street, and the most recent, following similar tone and theme, is Adam McKay’s The Big Short.

From 2005 to 2008, eccentric neurologist-turned-hedge fund CEO with mild Asperger’s syndrome Michael Burry (Christian Bale) bets against undervalued stocks and subprime mortgages believing the housing market will eventually fall. This inspires Jared Vennett (Ryan Gosling) to create the collateralized debt obligation, or CDO, market by matching buyers and sellers. Vennett then recruits tempestuous fund manager Mark Baum (Steve Carell) to his side.

Brad Pitt and Marisa Tomei co-star.

McKay’s use of archive footage and pop culture references from last-decade characters and amusing celebrity cameos, break the fourth wall and make his lesson

San Clemente Times January 7-13, 2016

Photo: Paramount Pictures

plan on the workings of the stock market and economy humorous and easy to follow.

Bale has been receiving the most awards-season hype of the cast and not surprisingly, as his mannerisms and interaction on screen are just as awkward as they should be. Carell, whose dramatic efforts over the last few years have been hit or miss, is perfect here as the hotheaded banker who actually means well.

The Big Short is as educational as it is entertaining and one of the best movies to end the year with—or start the new year off right. SC Page 23

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 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

CHIROPRACTIC

Thompson Chiropractic

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

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate

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

CONCRETE

Costa Verde Landscape

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

DENTISTS

Eric Johnson, D.D.S.

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

Shoreline Dental Studio Kristen Ritzau, DDS

122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.245.6046, www.shorelinedentalstudio.com

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back

949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric

949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

HARP LESSONS & RENTALS

Wendy-Harpist

949.482.9025, www.orangecountyharpist.com

HAULING

Cheapest Hauling

Call Robert 949.973.6288

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT

Capistrano Valley Raingutters Scott Williams, 949.542.7750

Hoover Construction 949.292.6778

LANDSCAPING

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

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Costa Verde Landscape

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

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD

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

PLUMBING

Bill Metzger Plumbing

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

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

SC Pool & Spa Works

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

Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com

Salon Bleu

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

Syrens Hair Parlor

217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.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

SALONS

Salon Bamboo

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

Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

AUTOS FOR SALE

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

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

SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress REAL ESTATE

CLASSIFIEDS

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

SWIMMING SCHOOL

Waterbabies Swim School

142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.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

NISSAN PATHFINDER 4X4 2009 Silver with black interior.

Bluetooth CD player with lan hookup. New Bilstein shocks.

K&N air filter. In great shape. $14,800 949-633-3860

FOR SALE CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size.

Typically made in 2 weeks.

Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Mike 949-240-1545.

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

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

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

OBITUARY

William C Walter

William (Bill) C Walter, born May 13,1935 in Buffalo, NY to Mildred and William Walter, Sr., died peacefully in hospice surrounded by family and friends on Dec 2, 2015.

Bill’s passion was cycling. At age 16, won Elgin to Chicago 50-mile Road Classic; at 55 won 1990 US National Champion in the Men 55-59 Sprint; in lifetime achieved over 300 medals/trophies.

Bill studied engineering at Purdue and U of Buffalo. His engineering career included rockets, geodesic domes, bulk storage tanks with Fluor and Jacobs, post-earthquake inspections, and two patents.

Bill arrived in CA in 1987, in 1996 married Judy Jones and moved to San Clemente, becoming much loved

Uncle Bill to 3 sons of Judy’s sister. He was a partner, friend, supporter of Judy’s career and activism.

Preceded in death: first wife Paula and son Richard. Surviving family: daughters Kathleen (Alexander) Gilchrist & Mary (Deno) Sfikas, and wife Judith Jones.

Bill worked hard, a strong cycling competitor, enjoyed comradery after racing, quick to raise a toast saying, “I love life!”More on Bill’s life and contributing in lieu of flowers at O’Connor Mortuary website http://www.oconnormortuary.com/obituaries/William-Walter-2/). Memorial Celebration will be 11am Sat Jan 23, 2015; email judyjones414@gmail.com for location and directions.

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

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

Page 25

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SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Wellness and Prevention by Susan Parmelee

A New Year’s Resolution to be More Present

I

often field questions from parents about “screen addiction” and how to get their kids off their cellphones, video games and computers. Fifteen years ago, as a parent of grade-school children, the battle seemed a little easier as it was limited to the TV and the Gameboy. My kids’ first phones flipped open and could not even text. Now the current “smart” technology is here, causing even more conflict and stress within families, and it is a challenge to figure out how to welcome this technology into our lives. It seems like cellphone etiquette is in a constant flux, and our kids’ need positive role modeling and clear rules to use technology safely and healthfully.

Most importantly, experts recommend that cellphones and other dataenabled devices not be kept in bedrooms. Sleep is very important for both WELLNESS AND adults and youth, and the PREVENTION interference of email, texts

By Susan Parmelee and social media in the bedroom is not conducive to a good night’s sleep. Studies also illustrate that unplugging from tech for an hour before bedtime also helps the brain to start the process of slowing down and to start the process of consolidating the day’s learning.

Social media sites require members to be 13 years of age or older. Developmentally, 13 year olds are better able to understand the implications of posting information. By following this guideline, parents can send a message about the importance of following rules and acting with integrity. Additionally, as a family, it’s important to set some guidelines for posting information, such as, “If you would not want your grandmother to read it, do

not post it.” Let your child know they must have permission before they post a photo of someone else.

Another suggestion is to commit to “family digital detox” times. Certain settings, such as sitting down to dinner, out at restaurants and family celebrations, are good cellphone-free times. Encourage your child to discuss current events, life goals and highlights of their day. Model your own ability to ignore texts, tweets and sport score updates for special events. Monitor your child’s devices—insist on privacy settings and know what apps they are downloading. Discuss who he can friend or share with. Explain what a digital footprint is—colleges, potential jobs and future social acquaintances will use the Internet to inspect your child, and it can have an impact on his or her future. Most importantly, put “in-person” time ahead of tech time. When you greet your child in the school pick-up line, make sure your phone is put away.

Should you want to learn more cyber safety and how you can protect and monitor your child, one of Orange County’s leading experts, Clay Cranston, will be speaking at Shorecliffs Middle School, free of charge, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 25. This event is for parents only. I have seen Mr. Cranston speak and I value his knowledge. You can also visit his website www.cybersafetycop.com for more excellent information.

Susan Parmelee is a mental health social worker and one of the founders of the Wellness & Prevention Center, San Clemente.

She can be reached at susan@wellnessandpreventionsanclemente.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

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

Management professionals for Ethika: (L to R) creative director Mitchell Bailey, graphic designer Toni Panici, CEO Matt Shook and marketing director Danny Evans show off Ethika underwear. Photo: Eric Heinz

Business Beat News from San Clemente’s business community COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

New Ventures ETHIKA 405 Calle Amancer, Suite 306 888.502.5310 www.ethika.com Underwear has always been the staple of Ethika, a business born and raised in San Clemente. The company began as a men’s underwear company and launched a women’s line in October 2015. The brand started with a few solid colors of men’s long-cut underwear, but now has multiple products featuring prints with various designs and emblazoned with photographs.

No matter the design, all Ethika underwear is available in one elastic fit that molds to the individual’s body. The company started in 2002 out of the garage of founder Malcolm McCassy, moving to the business district on the east side of I-5 in 2012. To date, Ethika has grown to own its own fully functional office with staff members. “(McCassy) had this vision of having a new product of underwear,” Danny Evans, Ethika’s marketing director, said. “We knew this style was going to change the game, and the women’s stuff we had and sold online, but it was never a focus. Toward the end of 2014, we were seeing the want and demand on social media from

Page 26

women, and so many of our clients had as big a female audience (as male).”

At the time, McCassy was working to promote his product through up-and-coming skateboarders and extreme athletes with worldwide recognition. Many of the current employees are from San Clemente, including Ryan Sheckler, who is also a partner in the business, Evans said.

“Malcolm really saw the potential of making it cool and a product that was better than anything,” Evans said. “I grew up buying packs of (underwear) for $15, and the quality wasn’t the same.”

The company launched a website in 2009 and has continued to expand. Today, Ethika has multiple partnerships with more professional athletes who wear the sport line and has expanded to the music industry as well. Justin Bieber, before his Calvin Klein contract, was seen sporting the local undergarments. The company also provided pairs to the San Clemente High School football team.

“Around 2012, we saw there were a lot of eyeballs on the music industry, and that became a big part of our marketing,” Evans said.

Ethika is approaching its fourth anniversary as an established business in San Clemente and has no plans to expand its product line, instead focusing on cornering the underwear market.

“It’s an incredibly brand-loyal product,” Evans said. “This is more of a lifestyle piece. It’s something you can put on when you’re just watching TV or if you’re playing basketball.”

Currently, the underwear can be found in Zumi’s and Tilly’s retail stores and has grown to national distribution. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

also secured 10 rebounds for his fourth double-double of the season.

The Tritons will open their run through South Coast League play on the road against Dana Hills (7-9) on Jan. 8. San Clemente is the defending league champion.

The Dolphins will enter the game riding a two-game win streak.

Girls Basketball Team Picks Up Back-to-Back Wins

San Clemente’s Tyler Meisinger won five tournament weight division championships in December.

Photo: Courtesy

Triton Report

Both wrestlers will make the trip to Fresno on Jan. 8 for the Doc Buchanan Invitational, an invite-only tournament that features some of the top wrestling talent on the West Coast.

The Triton wrestling team will continue league play on Jan. 12 with a road match against Laguna Hills.

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

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

Meisinger, Marshall Dominant on the Mats for Triton Wrestling Team

San Clemente wrestlers Tyler Meisinger and Kyle Marshall had a December to remember and one, according to head coach Mark Calentino, which will stand out in the school record books.

Meisinger won five tournament championships in one calendar month and was named the tournament’s outstanding wrestler in three of them.

Meisinger’s dominant stretch began at the San Clemente 8-Way Tournament on Dec. 1. Three days later, at the El Dorado Invitational, Meisinger won four matches en route to the 152-pound title. Meisinger continued his winning ways at the La Costa Canyon Invitational, Brea Olinda Invitational and, most recently, at the Central Coast Classic on Dec. 29.

“We’ve had some great wrestlers in the program over the years, but have never had a kid with a run like that in the month of December,” Calentino said in an email.

San Clemente junior Kyle Marshall won his weight division title at the El Dorado Invitational, La Costa Canyon Invitational, Brea Olinda Invitational and Central Coast Classic, respectively. Marshall is currently undefeated this season.

Both Marshall and Meisinger are ranked in the top-10 in the state in their respective weight classes, according to Calentino.

San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

Boys Soccer Set for Match With Cougars

For the first time since early December, the San Clemente girls basketball team won consecutive games while competing in the OC Tournament of Champions.

The Tritons (5-10) defeated Rivera of Los Angeles 80-23 on Dec. 29 and outlasted Woodrow Wilson in a 53-40 victory on Dec. 30. San Clemente led Woodrow Wilson 3329 after three quarters and outscored them 20-11 in the final quarter to seal the win.

Triton Girls Soccer Falls to Titans in Excalibur Tournament After an opening round loss to Temecula Valley in the Excalibur Tournament on Dec. 28, the San Clemente girls soccer team rattled off consecutive wins to reach the finals of the tournament’s consolation bracket, where they lost to Tesoro 3-0.

Tesoro’s Ally Cook scored all three goals for the Titans. San Clemente goalkeeper Lauren Brzykcy made 12 saves.

San Clemente (6-3-4) was set to open South Coast League play against Aliso Niguel on Jan. 7. Results were not available at press time. The Wolverines are the No. 2 team in the CIF-SS Division 1 rankings and the Tritons are ranked eighth. The Tritons will continue league play on Jan. 12 with a match against Capistrano Valley.

Big Win Propels Girls Water Polo Team into League Play

The San Clemente girls water polo team, the second-ranked squad in the CIF-SS Division 2 rankings, picked up a big nonleague win over Los Alamitos on Dec. 30. The Tritons jumped out to an early lead against the Griffins, the No. 10 team in Division 1, and did not let up in an 8-6 victory.

San Clemente outscored Los Alamitos 4-1 in the first quarter and the Griffins could not catch up. San Clemente’s Amber McCutcheon scored five goals and Marissa Echelberger scored twice.

The Tritons (7-3) were scheduled to open South Coast League play against El Toro on Jan. 7. Results were not available at press time. The Chargers are the No. 1 team in the CIF-SS Division 2 rankings.

The San Clemente boys soccer team will open South Coast League play on the road against Capistrano Valley on Jan. 8.

The Tritons (5-7-4) recently competed in the SoCal High School Classic Tournament, where the team went 1-2-1. San Clemente opened its tournament bid with a 3-0 win over South East and drew to a 0-0 tie with Santa Margarita on Dec. 28. San Clemente closed out the tournament with back-to-back losses to Santa Margarita and Huntington Beach on Dec. 29.

Boys Hoops Loses Late in Tustin Classic Championship Game, Readies for Title Defense

In the championship game of the Tustin Classic, the San Clemente boys basketball team lost to Clovis West on a layup with just over two seconds left on the clock that sealed a 51-50 victory for the Golden Eagles.

Cole Fotheringham led San Clemente with 11 points, Dillon Waikle poured in 10 while Blake Birmingham and Jake Cameron each added eight.

Birmingham and Fotheringham were each named to the all-tournament team.

San Clemente (11-5) suffered a 66-63 overtime loss to Troy on Jan. 5 to close out its nonleague schedule. Senior guard Gage Shelmidine led San Clemente with 15 points but fouled out in the overtime period with just under three minutes to go. Waikle scored 12 points and Fotheringham scored 11. Fotheringham Page 28

The San Clemente Triton Rugby Club teams are off to an unbeaten start. Photo: Courtesy

Scoreboard SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

RUGBY The San Clemente Triton Rugby Club is off to an unbeaten start to its inaugural season. The program’s varsity and junior varsity teams, which are primarily made up of San Clemente High School students, opened their seasons with victories over Servite in Week 1. The junior varisty squad then defeated Dana Hills 26-12 in Week 2. The teams traveled to play San Marcos High School on Jan. 2.

The junior varsity team emerged with a 51-22 victory and the varsity squad

tied with San Marco 14-14. The Triton Rugby Club will host Mission Vista at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park on Jan. 8 at 7:15 p.m.

FOOTBALL The San Clemente High School football program will hold its Friday Night Lights skills camp for children grades 4-8 at Thalassa Stadium on Jan. 15. The camp is designed to teach attendees key training drills and techniques for all positions. The Friday Night Lights camp will take place from 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. and will be run by the Tritons varsity coaching staff. For more information or to register, visit www.tritonfootball.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Back to the Core

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 57-60 degrees F

T. Patterson returns company priority to building great surfboards

Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 4-8’ Poor-Fair. Catalina: 8-14’ Poor-Fair THURSDAY: Primary WNW-NW swell mix builds as southerly windswell joins in, for jumbled surf throughout the day. Better breaks through the region are in the head high to overhead range, with consistently overhead waves at standout winter spots during favorable tides. As another storm front moves in, southerly winds will rise and veer more SW-WSW by the afternoon, making conditions mostly poor.

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T.

Patterson Surfboards owner Timmy Patterson wants to start the new year in an old direction, concentrating only on the art of building great surfboards.

The surf shop, previously on El Camino Real in the North Beach area of San Clemente, was closed just before Christmas when the company moved to its new, smaller retail location at 210 Calle de Los Molinos, Ste. B, a move Patterson said has reignited his love for his craft.

“It’s a big change,” Patterson said.

“There’s really one main reason people go to the Surf Ghetto or Shapers’ Alley or whatever you want to call it, and that’s to shop for surfboards. It’s a real community here with guys like Cole, Matt Biolos, Dewey Weber, Hamish Graham, Terry Senate, Ghetto House Glassing and UsedSurf. Boards are shaped and glassed right here and go out to surfers, including many pros, all over the world. And I’m right across the street from Brad Basham’s.

Back in the day he was one of the keys to my success. Still is. He pushed me and allowed me to make it all happen.”

Since the move, Patterson said the foot traffic has really picked up, largely due to the location and the return to his

Timmy Patterson has moved T. Patterson Surfboards to 210 Calle de Los Molinos, Ste. B. Photo: Andrea Swayne

core business.

“Name any team rider in the world and they’ve been to this little spot in San Clemente,” he said. “It’s such a well-known and concentrated area, and we see the best guys from all over the world coming to this little part of California. It says a lot about what we are all doing here.”

Patterson said he is enjoying having greater interaction with his customers— from top pro riders to beginners—and that, along with the close presence of so many other shapers, creates a community of innovators that has put the Los Molinos surf district on the world map.

“It’s really cool to get instant input from everyone,” he said. “That’s one of the coolest things about our business: input from locals and customers and the ability to make boards, start-to-finish, right here.

We all get the advantage of making a board and trying it out the next day.”

The success of T. Patterson team rider, Brazilian pro and 2015 Rookie of the Year, Italo Ferreira, also provided Patterson with confirmation that taking his company back to the basics was a move in the right direction.

“Italo’s an amazing surfer, one of the best standouts last year riding T. Patterson boards, so that’s been really positive for us,” Patterson said. “It was just time to downsize, cut overhead and return to concentrating on surfboards and stocking more of what surfers want. The stand-up paddling thing had really run its course for us and was kind of confusing to some.

We don’t sell clothing or artwork anymore either. We’re getting back to the basics of how I started—making great surfboards and doing what I love. It’s refreshing to see so many new customers and old customers stopping by. It’s made it all fun again.” SC

GROM OF THE WEEK SEAN DOUGHERTY

S

ean Dougherty, 13, of Laguna Niguel has been surfing since the age of 7 and intends to continue to make the sport he loves a permanent part of his life.

Sean got his start under the tutelage of his dad, along with a summer session at Cola’s Surf Camp in San Clemente. In the past year he has been coached by Dana Point surfer Lucas Taub and has begun climbing the ranks in Western Surfing Association and Scholastic Surf Series events.

In SSS Orange County Middle School Boys Shortboard Division 1, Sean is the No. 7 ranked surfer in a field of 74. In WSA Boys U14 Shortboard, he is ranked No. 11 in a field of 80.

With dreams of becoming a professional surfer, Sean practices nearly every day, making a point to surf even when conditions are not the best, and will soon be starting fitness training at Dean Sports San Clemente Times January 7–13, 2016

Sean Dougherty Photo: WSA/Jack McDaniel

Consulting (DSC).

Sean’s goals include finishing this season in the Top 10 in both WSA and SSS, qualifying for the Surfing America Prime Series, earning a spot on the USA Surf Team and then moving on to World Surf League Junior Prime events, Qualifying Series events and then the World Tour.

As a member of the Niguel Hills Middle

School surf team, his goals also include working hard for the remainder of the year in preparation for trying out for the Dana Hills High School team next year.

“I want to be able to land every turn I do and be more consistent in finishing my maneuvers,” Sean said.

Surfing is not the only focus for this determined eighth-grader. Sean is also a bright

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OUTLOOK: Stronger WNW-NW swell mix peaks on Thursday with overhead to double overhead zone surf for better breaks. Poor conditions continue as another storm sweeps in. Dropping waves with improving weather due on Friday and going into the weekend. Check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

UPCOMING EVENTS January 9-10: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 4, Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane January 16-17: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 6, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty January 23: Scholastic Surf Series, OC Middle School, Event No. 3, Huntington Beach, Pier January 24: Scholastic Surf Series, OC High School, Event No. 3, Huntington Beach, Pier January 30: Soul Surf Series, Event No. 4, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach February 6-7: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 5, location TBD February 6-7: NSSA Open, Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach February 13-14: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 7, Huntington Beach, Pier February 20: Scholastic Surf Series, OC Middle School, Event No. 4, Oceanside, Pier

student with a 3.90 GPA and the desire and dedication to work toward straight-A report cards.

“I work hard in school because I want to go to college, probably in Santa Barbara or San Diego, and compete on an NSSA college team,” Sean said. “I also want to be an architect after my surfing career.”

Sean developed an interest in building and architecture as a small child and a “Lego maniac.”

“My mom works at LEGOLAND, so I have enjoyed building stuff with Legos since I was a little kid,” he said. “Basically I love building stuff, finding my own way to put stuff together. I built by own surf rack and skate rack. I really like that kind of stuff.”

Sean is grateful for his family, sponsors and coach for helping him chase his dreams.

“I want to thank my sponsors, WAXTRAX and Rumaner Surfboards,” Sean said. “I also want to thank Lucas for being a great coach and getting me ready for contests, and my parents for being really supportive.”

—Andrea Swayne www.sanclementetimes.com