LO C A L
N EWS
October 5–11, 2017
YO U
C A N
U S E
Inside: South County Real Estate Guide SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 12, ISSUE 40
‘A Bingo Crowd’ Charity event night at Goody’s Tavern has raised more than $10,000 EYE ON SC/PAGE 6
Tami Fusco, center, celebrates winning a round of bingo during the Goody’s Tavern charity bingo night on Oct. 2. The event raised more than $650 for the San Clemente Skatepark Coalition. Photo: Eric Heinz
California Dept. of Justice Looking into Tainted Flutes Given to Schools EYE ON SC/PAGE 5
Local Film Producers Give Sneak Preview of ‘Pendleton at 75’ SC LIVING/PAGE 28
www.sanclementetimes.com
Team USA Wins Second Gold at VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship SC SURF/PAGE 34
VOTE FOR THE BEST OF SAN CLEMENTE AT SANCLEMENTETIMES.COM
&
Shop Dine Local S A N
C L E M E N T E
PUT YOUR AD HERE
PUT YOUR AD HERE
Call or email Susie Lantz
Call or email Susie Lantz
at 949.388.7700, ext 111 or
at 949.388.7700, ext 111 or
slantz@picketfencemedia.com
slantz@picketfencemedia.com
ADVERTISING INFORMATION: Contact Susie Lantz at 949.388.7700, ext 111 or slantz@picketfencemedia.com.
SC EYE ON SC San Clemente
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
What’s Up With...
components of the system is cost. The reservoir provides drinking water for 15,600 residents in the northern system and another 39,400 in the southern system of the base.
Five things San Clemente should know this week Sina Riahi Named San Clemente Lifeguard of the Year THE LATEST: On Sept. 28, the San Clemente Exchange Club honored San Clemente Lifeguard Sina Riahi, awarding him with the 2017 Lifeguard of the Year award, according to a press release from the city of San Clemente. City Council member Chris Hamm presented Riahi with a plaque and challenge coin on behalf of the city. Riahi has been a lifeguard with the city since the spring of 2013 and completed his fifth consecutive summer with the city this year. “Sina graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in business management, and graduated from the City College of San Francisco’s Firefighter 1 Academy, both in spring of 2017,” the release stated. “I would like to thank my mother for everything she went through while raising me and my twin brother,” Riahi said after receiving the award. WHAT’S NEXT: The Exchange Club will host its next annual awards luncheon in 2018 at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Clubhouse. —Staff
Despite Casino San Clemente Concerns, City Council Approves North Beach Location for Oktoberfest THE LATEST: Organizers with the San Clemente Oktoberfest proposed moving the annual event from last year’s site at Vista Hermosa Sports Park to the North Beach lot, where the Wednesday farmers’ market is held, during the Oct. 3 City Council meeting. But officials with Casino San Clemente, located right next to the lot, said the noise from the bands, crowd and parking issues would make it difficult for them to host adequate weddings that are planned for the weekend. Officials from the Casino said they have San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
San Clemente lifeguard Sina Riahi, left, receives the Lifeguard of the Year honors with a plaque and challenge coin from City Council member Chris Hamm on Sept. 28 at Wedgewood at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. Photo: Courtesy of the city of San Clemente
guests who have spent tens of thousands of dollars on their special day and wouldn’t want them to have their experience ruined by the various obstacles that come with hosting the event. Oktoberfest is scheduled from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21. Council member Tim Brown said this is somewhat of a positive problem in that the city hasn’t seen potential overcrowding for planning events in North Beach for some time and that this weekend would provide “a good dry run” trial to see how the city can best accommodate multiple events and venues in the area. Amplified music is expected to be heard throughout the venue, which anticipates a total of 2,000 visitors throughout the day, according to a staff report from the city. WHAT’S NEXT: With the vote, City Council will use the trolley to help ferry people to and from the event and reserve parking spots in order to honor the Casino’s 64 spots its already allotted. Oktoberfest organizers said they will work with officials of the Casino of San Clemente to resolve any issues. Visit www.scoktoberfest.com for more information. —Eric Heinz
Camp Pendleton to Comply with EPA after Report Finds Multiple Drinking Water Violations THE LATEST: An Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report published Sept. 28 on Camp Pendleton’s water supply system found numerous violations of the Safe Water Drinking Act.
The reservoirs, wells and treatment plant on the U.S. Marine Corps base were found to have problems that included, but not limited to: small animals getting into the system, the lack of a chief water operator, the lack of capital improvement plans, adequate reporting on the condition of the water system and more. Camp Pendleton and the EPA signed a consent order on Sept. 28 in which the base operators agree to comply with the agency’s instructions to correct these violations. The problems of the drinking water system were brought to the EPA’s attention after the agency received complaints from customers. According to the EPA report, Camp Pendleton was notified in 2015 by the California State Water Resource Control Board’s Division of Drinking Water that the system was out of compliance because it lacked a chief operator and that a description for that position was not provided. “EPA’s investigation found several significant deficiencies at both (North and South) systems, including the presence of small animal remains in three reservoirs,” a press release from the EPA stated. “In addition, EPA found that the advanced water treatment plant had been periodically shut down and that operators were not completing required equipment testing. Finally, inspectors found that operators did not regularly inspect, maintain and document monitoring efforts, which resulted in foundational cracks and inadequate seals.” Other violations included in the report stated the facilities were not adequately maintained. The report stated that one problem with updating and maintaining some of the
Page 3
WHAT’S NEXT: Despite the findings, Camp Pendleton issued a statement to its residents following the conclusion of the investigation stating the drinking water is currently safe. “This is not an emergency, your drinking water is safe and compliant,” the release stated. “If it had been an emergency, you would have been notified within 24 hours. If a situation arises where the water is not safe to drink, you will be notified within 24 hours. In the consent order, Camp Pendleton has agreed to provide samples of the water to check for coliform, salmonella, cryptosporidium (a parasite that when consumed can cause illness and respiratory problems) and giardia (a treatable intestinal infection). A contractor with “expertise in public water systems” will inspect and clean the system within six months of the report’s issuance, according to the Camp Pendleton statement. FIND OUT MORE: Documents related to this report can be found in the longer version of this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. —EH
Officials Shine Light on Opioid and Heroin Epidemic in South Orange County THE LATEST: State Assemblyman Bill Brough and State Senator Patricia Bates, in partnership with the Capistrano Unified School District and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, hosted a presentation at San Juan Hills High School on Oct. 3 on increased opioid and heroin use in South Orange County. The event featured speakers from OCSD, U.S. Border Patrol, the Orange County Health Care Agency, Capistrano Unified School District and UCI Medical Center. The group of speakers presented information about local and national drug use trends, warning signs, progress with new policies addressing drug trafficking, and solutions such as educating the public and having first responders distribute the medication naloxone to reduce the number of opioid overdoses. Assistance resources and experts were also on hand, including organizations such as Because I Love You, the Orange County Bar Foundation, the city of Mission Viejo’s new Drug Prevention Coalition and AlAnon and Alateen of Orange County. (Cont. on page 5) www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC (Cont. from page 3) WHAT’S NEXT: Dr. Bharath Chakravarthy, associate professor of clinical emergency medicine and public health at UC Irvine, said if there’s one thing he hoped audience members took away from the event, it’s the importance of safely disposing of prescription drugs at home. “Get rid of the prescriptions you’re not using, even if they’re non-narcotic,” Chakravarthy said. “It makes it safe for you, safe for your family and safe for the community.” FIND OUT MORE: For the full story on Monday’s presentation, including steps for safely storing and disposing of medications, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. To view OC Health Care Agency’s complete report on 2017 Opioid Overdose & Death in Orange County, visit www. ochealthinfo.com. To view a video of the entire presentation, check out the online version of this story, or follow Senator Pat Bates on Facebook (@senatorpatbates). —Allison Jarrell
Flutes Given to CUSD Students May Have Been Tainted with Semen, California DOJ Investigating THE LATEST: Students in the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) and other school districts across Southern California may have come into contact with flutes that were contaminated with semen, according to statements issued by school district officials. CUSD sent an email on Sept. 29 alerting parents that the district was notified on Sept. 28 of a pending California Department of Justice investigation involving an individual who provided flutes to children during a music education program that may have been “inappropriately contaminated with the suspect’s bodily fluid.” The district specified that the suspect is not a district employee. CUSD’s chief communications officer Ryan Burris said in the email correspondence that the suspect conducted the music program at some of the district’s school sites, but did not identify the schools in question. Burris said that as part of the program, “students may have received a flute made of PVC plastic piping and a single wine cork that they could decorate.” “In an abundance of caution, we are asking all families who may have had children participate in this type of program either at school or within the community to remove these flutes from your child’s possession and place them in a sealed paper bag,” Burris stated. “The district is working with law enforcement to determine how they wish to have these collected, should they need them for additional evidence. Please do not bring these items to your school site.” San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Burris went on to say that it is not dangerous for families to keep the flutes in sealed paper bags, but “it would be inappropriate and unsanitary” for children to continue having contact with them. “We understand this is deeply upsetting to our families and that you may be seeking more details than we can provide,” Burris said. “The California Department of Justice and the US Postal Inspection Service are continuing their investigation and we are not able to provide further details until they conclude this matter.” Since the initial news of the potential contamination, other school districts have issued statements on their websites, including the Los Angeles Unified School District, Fullerton School District, and Saugus Union School District. Some of the statements from other school districts divulged more specific information. Saugus Union and L.A. Unified officials identified the alleged “bodily fluid” as semen. And Fullerton School District’s statement identified the suspect as a presenter from the Flutes around the World music program, which was sponsored by the Orange County Philharmonic Society at some schools. “We have been informed by the California Department of Justice that an individual, who presented music programs sponsored by the Orange County Philharmonic Society to fourth through sixth grade students at Golden Hill and Rolling Hills Elementary Schools during the 2016-2017 school year is under an ongoing investigation for sexual misconduct,” Fullerton School District officials said in a Sept. 30 statement. “Although presenters at our schools are never alone with children and are always supervised by a teacher or school staff, in an abundance of caution, this presenter will not return to the Fullerton School District. We were informed that this individual has worked in a number of school districts throughout California and we have no evidence to suggest any of our students are connected with the investigation.” Chantel Chen Uchida, vice president of marketing and public relations for the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, said in a statement that the organization is “shocked and deeply concerned by the allegations surrounding this program.” Uchida said the Philharmonic Society is “one of many arts organizations and schools sponsoring presentations of the Flutes across the World program.” “We care deeply about our community, and the children in our community, and we have immediately terminated our affiliation with this program,” Uchida said. WHAT’S NEXT: Burris said in an email on Oct. 4 that an update would be sent to CUSD families later that day. The new information was not available as of press time. To view the initial email alert from CUSD, find this story on www.sanclementetimes.com. —AJ Page 5
EYE ON SC
‘A Bingo Crowd’ Charity event night at Goody’s Tavern has raised more than $10,000 BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T
here’s something uplifting and unifying about the random chance to win at bingo—the name itself is likened to great fortune. Tina Byrd, a manager at Goody’s Tavern who organizes weekly games, said the San Clemente bar started hosting bingo nights to raise money for local charities and as a way to drum up business on Monday nights, which before then were notoriously slow. The first night of bingo in late May, Goody’s raised $125, which was used to buy toy dump trucks for a preschool. “We were keeping it small and simple the first couple of weeks, but as it started to gain momentum, it grew organically into this larger event,” Byrd said. “The past four months we’ve raised over $10,000 for local charities.” The largest fundraising event Goody’s
Paige Fusaro, left, has missed out on only a few charity bingo nights at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz
has done through its bingo night thus far was for The MARSOC Foundation, a nonprofit that supports U.S. Marines, which garnered $1,700 in one night. “At that point, we realized this was going to be something big, and it’s continued week by week,” Byrd said. Other organizations have donated raffle prizes for the cause, including a round of golf and airline tickets. “The type and level of prizes are dependent on the charity and how involved they get with the event,” Goody’s Tavern owner Jennifer Davis said. “With MARSOC, we
had military members who were actively wanting to contribute.” On Oct. 2, the bingo night raised more than $650 for the San Clemente Skatepark Coalition, which is trying to expand the current skateboard parks and add lighting. Owners Jennifer and Steve Davis provide some of the raffle items along with the donations provided by each charity, which by Byrd’s estimate, probably raise more money than the actual game at $5 per ticket or five tickets for $20. Bingo sheets are $1 each. The owners also donate $1 for every signature gained on a thank you card.
“This community is so bonded even in the bar scene here, and that’s what drives us, the fact that we want to give back,” Byrd said. More than just raising funds, Jennifer said she’s seen bingo friendships develop since the start of the weekly event. “I think people are looking for an experience, something to do rather than just sit in a bar and get drunk,” Jennifer said. “We’ve provided an experience for people 21 and over to come in and have something to do. It’s kind of a release for me as a business owner, where the rest of the six days of the week are about facilitating a party and making money.” She also said the crowd has been diverse, with families, mothers, fathers, etc. Local resident Paige Fusaro said she had not participated regularly in bingo until she started coming to Goody’s, and she’s only missed a Monday or two because she was out of town. “I really like the camaraderie and how the town comes out to support a good cause,” Fusaro said. Organizations interested in being considered as a beneficiary of bingo night can fill out a form on the Goody’s Tavern website at www.goodystavern.com/charitybingo. SC
Groups Seek Nuclear Fuel Permit Revocation at SONGS Field experts, residents don’t trust canisters that would house radioactive rods BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
D
uring the October meeting of the California Coastal Commission, advocates in support of eliminating the spent nuclear fuel at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) will seek once again to persuade the commission to revoke a permit it issued allowing plant operators to store it in a burial site in close proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The fuel currently can’t be moved to a permanent facility because one is not available, but there could be other methods to stop the fuel from being set in a concrete monolith onsite. A Coastal Commission meeting agenda item on spent nuclear fuel is scheduled for Oct. 11 in Chula Vista at the City Council Chambers, located at 276 Fourth Ave. Prior to the California Coastal Commission meeting, the San Clemente Times met with eight different advocates and experts who have been vocal about removing the fuel from the San Onofre location and hope several of their concerns receive answers at the Oct. 11 meeting. Concern: What improvements can be made to thoroughly monitor these canisters for cracks? Nina Babiarz, of Public Watchdogs, a nonprofit organization based out of San Diego, asserts that despite presentations given at public meetings explaining San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
that the waste can be examined, she said Southern California Edison has failed to explain how they plan on repairing cracks in the canisters if they transpire. Barbiarz said this lack of acknowledgement to this concern could mean that the canisters cannot be repaired if a leak were to occur. Southern California Edison (SCE) is the majority owners of SONGS. It is estimated that 1,600-1,900 tons of the spent nuclear fuel rods will begin to be buried by the end of 2017 or the start of 2018 when SCE officials said they expect to receive final permits from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Concern: What will be done if a crack in the canisters is discovered? Donna Gilmore, a systems analyst of San Onofre Safety (SOS), has been doing her own independent research on the canisters as well as all things SONGS for several years. “It’s really about the weakest link,” Gilmore said. “You’ve got 5/8ths of an inch of stainless steel. Whether it’s the AREVA canisters or the Holtec canisters, you’ve got ventilation systems in both (which could release radiation in the event of a crack). The question is which one’s worse.” Gilmore cited research of other nuclear canisters that had corroded, and she is concerned the same kind of stainless steel canisters could crack under pressure,
which could release curries of radiation. “Once a crack starts, it grows on its own all the way through the wall,” Glimore said. Concern: The site is close to the ocean, fault lines A major concern of Gilmore’s is also the proximity of the burial site to fault lines that run along the California coastline. The Newport-Inglewood and Rose Canyon fault lines were described at a meeting as having the potential to set off a magnitude 7.4 earthquake, which advocates say could be dangerous. Thomas English, Ph.D., has been an expert on nuclear energy for decades, by way of California Institute of Technology, and has provided scientific consultation in regards to nuclear policy to prior U.S. politicians and presidents. “(Southern California Edison) have a 30-year container for nuclear waste that’s going to last who knows how long, 100,000 years, easily,” English said. “This new facility that (SONGS) is proposing for the beach will be very close to the groundwater table.” English said the projected rise of sea levels in coming years could eventually make human and animal life vulnerable to the nuclear waste. “The problem is a lack of planning,” English said. “(The nuclear regulators) don’t like people looking over their shoul-
Page 6
der. During the Carter Administration, they were projecting a federally approved high-level nuclear waste facility would be available for all nuclear waste across the country in 10 years. But there was no basis of the schedule.” The SONGS spent fuel is currently in cooling tanks within the protective domes of the now-offline nuclear power plant, but officials have said at Community Engagement Panel meetings that it is safer in drycask storage. Concern: Adequate storage is not available Another piece of legislation the advocacy groups hope to have amended are the provisions of Congress’s H.R. 3053, which would allow for interim fuel storage, but Gilmore argues thin canisters would be allowed to store the fuel and that doesn’t provide safeguards for air quality management, in addition to a list of other things. The provisions were first introduced by Rep. Darrell Issa in 2015. EDITOR’S NOTE: There are many other issues groups against the storage of nuclear waste want Southern California Edison to address at SONGS. This is the most recent information regarding these issues. For a more thorough history on SONGS, visit this article at www.sanclementetimes. com for a list of previous stories on this topic. Information on Public Watchdogs can be found at www.publicwatchdogs.org. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
NEWS BITES
Community Meetings
COMPILED BY STAFF
Special Fishies to Host Last Adaptive Beach Day of the Season Oct. 14 Special Fishies Swim School, a local organization focused on adaptive aquatic lessons for children with special needs, will be hosting its final beach day of the season from 11.a.m–2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14 at Linda Lane Beach. This beach day will allow children the opportunity to hang out and surf with professional instructors. “It is a great day of ocean freedom, surfing, boogie boarding, swimming, socializing, bird chasing and more,” a press release from Special Fishes stated. “We have paired up with Sandy Feet Initiative, a local nonprofit that focuses on getting all kids to the beach. They have an excellent water crew that helps the kids surf and boogie board. Surf dog Ricochet and her sister, Cori, have also been huge supporters and have participated in surfing and rescuing.” The cost to attend is $40 for the entire family. This event is for children with special needs and their siblings. To register, visit the city of San Clemente City website www.san-clemente.org/ recreation by Oct. 13.
Outlets Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Outlets at San Clemente is partnering with Susan G. Komen Orange County to host “Pink Saves” with a full lineup of educational events, fun, heartwarming tributes and special fundraisers for the local chapter of the highest nongovernment contributor to breast cancer research in the country. The celebration takes place at Outlets at San Clemente, located at 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, Suite 190, until Oct. 31. Visit www.outletsatsanclement.com/ fundraiser-pink-saves for more information on the events. Here are a few that will take place this month: Pink Saves Ribbon of Strength Dedication Wall “Shoppers can honor the fighters, survivors and angels in their life on the Pink Saves Dedication Wall, featuring the 15-foot Ribbon of Strength, in Oak Tree Court during the month of October,” a release from the Outlets stated. “Each name requires a $25 donation, and all proceeds benefit Susan G. Komen Orange County. With the donation, shoppers receive a free Pink Saves coupon booklet ($10 value) with savings at more than 55 stores and eateries at Outlets at San Clemente. Dedications can be made now through the month of October at Customer Service or San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8
DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar. MONDAY, OCTOBER 9
Special Fishies will host its final Adaptive Beach Day of the season from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, at Linda Lane Beach. Photo: File
online at ShopOSC.com/PinkSaves.” Pink Saves Survivors’ Lounge Survivors and their co-survivors are invited on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. to enjoy a day of shopping at Outlets at San Clemente with special access to VIP treatment in the exclusive VIP lounge. The event includes a tote bag filled with special offers, prize drawings, complimentary light bites, beverages and mini treatments provided by Monarch Beach Resort’s Miraval Spa. Plus, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can experience a reading and book signing with Kim Hamer, cancer support expert and author of 100 Acts of Love – A Girlfriend’s Guide to Loving Your Friend Through Cancer or Loss. The event is complimentary for breast cancer survivors and one guest. Space is limited. Online RSVP is required at ShopOSC.com/PinkSaves. Mobile Mammography Coach Tour On Sunday, Oct. 22, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Susan G. Komen Orange County representatives will be onsite providing breast health information and tours of the Mobile Mammography Coach to provide a firsthand look at a mammography appointment and the importance of early detection. Tours are complimentary and will be located near Calvin Klein. To make a dedication, purchase event tickets and learn more about Pink Saves at Outlets at San Clemente, visit www.shoposc.com/pinksaves.
San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated Meeting The San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated (SCARWF) will hold its general meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 11, at 10 a.m. at Talega Golf Club, located at 900 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. The guest speaker this month is Diane Harkey, who served three terms in the California Assembly representing the 73rd District, which encompasses South Orange County. After being elected to the
State Board of Equalization (BOE) covering the counties of Orange, Riverside, San Diego and parts of San Bernardino in 2014, Harkey currently serves as Chair of the Business Taxes Committee, the regulatory body at the BOE, charged with writing regulations implementing California’s business tax regulations. Harkey graduated cum laude with a degree in economics from the University of California, Irvine and enjoyed a successful 30-year career in corporate finance and banking before her election to the California Assembly. For those interested in attending the meeting, lunch is served and the cost is $27. For reservations, visit www.scarwf.org.
Kiwanis Club of San Clemente Foundation Announces New Meeting Location The Kiwanis Club of San Clemente will meet at Fratello’s Restaurant, located at 647 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 126, across the parking lot from the Krikorian Theater. Meetings are Wednesdays at noon except for the first Wednesday of each month, which is scheduled for 6 p.m. People will have the opportunity to learn more about becoming part of a group to make a difference in the community. Since 1953 when it was chartered, the Kiwanis Club of San Clemente has served its community through volunteerism, advocacy and financial support. Members donate more than 1,000 volunteer hours to a wide variety of civic, educational and military endeavors. Members strive to make a difference by providing assistance in the areas of childhood education and enrichment, youth development, military projects, senior services, school needs, civic pride and community building initiatives. Information on donating and how you can get more involved can be found at www.sanclementekiwanis.com.
AMERICAN LEGION POST 423 MEETING 6 p.m. Meetings are the second Monday of each month. The Elks Lodge, located 1505 El Camino Real. 949.429.5003. strgeezr47@gmail.com. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10
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. BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING 7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11
SAN CLEMENTE ROTARY Noon. The San Clemente Rotary meets every Wednesday at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena. 949.233.7981. www.sanclementerotary.org. NORTH BEACH FARMERS’ MARKET 3-6:30 p.m. The Market at North Beach features vendors of food, jewelry and other wares, and there could be live music. 1501 N. El Camino Real. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12
TCA JOINT BOARD MEETING 9 a.m. The Transportation Corridor Agencies Joint Board will host a regularly scheduled meeting. The Toll Roads Service Center, 125 Pacifica, Irvine. 949.727.4800 www.thetollroads.com.
Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.
Page 8
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC SOAPBOX San Clemente
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
Letters to the Editor
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
TO TUNNEL TCA’S PROPOSED 241 SOUTH EXTENSION
phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com
JERRY COLLAMER, San Clemente
HOW TO REACH US
San Clemente resident Bill Hezzelwood’s suggestion in a letter to the editor in the Sept. 28-Oct. 4 edition of the San Clemente Times to tunnel TCA’s proposed 241-south extension to Trestles (about 10 miles not 5) comes with his admission that he is unfamiliar with past plans to bury a toll road. Fact is, there’s a 241 tunnel plan on OCTA’s books, priced-out by Orange County Transportation Authority’s (OCTA) consultants in 2004, labeled “The Beltway.” A tunneled toll road extension, extending west from the south end of what is now Los Patronas Road (was supposed to be the toll road) and Cow Camp Road. The Beltway tunnel burrows west, under existing open space for 2 and a half miles, resurfacing south of Avery Parkway at I-5, in close proximity to the 73 toll road, creating an actual interchange or nexus of toll roads or freeway and smart arterials, where traffic relief is needed most due to growing east-west traffic on Ortega Highway from Riverside County, and Rancho Mission Viejo LLC’s 14,000-home development smack dab at the intersection of Ortega, Antonio and LaPata, gulp. The Beltway Tunnel Plan has been on OCTA’s books for 13 years. Oddly, the two cities benefitting most from The Beltway tunnel’s out-of-sight and out-ofmind solution are Mission Viejo and San Juan Capistrano, which steadfastly oppose it. Politically burying The Beltway tunnel plan until now, it inexplicably reawakened from its politically induced 13-year coma. Of course the best solution to San Clemente’s 20-year war against TCA’s useless toll road invasion is abolish TCA. That’s the best plan: abolish the TCA.
KUDOS TO LETTER ENGAGING SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES SUZI TOMPKINS, San Clemente
I would like to comment on Lupe Infraine’s letter to the editor in the Sept. 28Oct. 4 edition of the San Clemente Times. I am so excited that the paper chose to print the opinion regarding the treatment of farm animals. Not only should we do serious research on our own regarding the benefits of a plant-based diet, we should share that information with anyone who will listen and wishes to fight illnesses of all kinds. Just making small changes will better our health and quality of life as we age. It is also the highest ethical choice on behalf of those tortured and killed to perSan Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
CITY EDITOR Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE
Susie Lantz, 949.388.7700, x111 slantz@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS
A vandalized trash bin in San Clemente. Photo: Courtesy
petuate myths about food that is good for us. Investigate for yourselves what food companies back the ads and propagandabased commercials, putting money before truth and compassion, including pharmaceutical companies. Be proactive about making a decision to take a pill to “fix” an issue rather than correcting it or preventing it with knowledge of healthy alternatives. Love yourself, the planet and all its inhabitants. Bottom line, educate yourself.
‘AGAINST THE TOLL ROADS SINCE DAY 1’ GENE HABICH, Litchfield Park Arizona
As a former home owner living in San Clemente from 1992-2010, and I was also a real estate appraiser for over 20 years, I had been against the toll road since Day 1. Back when Wayne Eggleston was mayor, I suggested the only route that made sense was to have it go south of town near Basilone Road. Wayne stated to me too many times the Marines will not allow another road on their base after “the 5” went through to Oceanside. Well folks, let’s get on a bandwagon that the Marines don’t run this country or the state of California. The Marines will still have all the area for training, for land and sea training. They also have Twentynine Palms in the desert. All the powers to be, Wayne would not push it as he was favorable with the Marines. The TCA, county supervisors, the governor, someone get ahold of the White House and see if Trump can get things changed. If the road, whether a toll or federally funded one needs to be built someday, building it south of the San Mateo creek area on the base is the only place it really makes sense because building it through
Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com
the city of San Clemente is the dumbest plan yet. I really feel sorry for all the people and friends I know who live in San Clemente, and all of them are not happy with the current plans.
GRAFFITI, TRASH CONTINUE TO BE ISSUES FOR SAN CLEMENTE KERRY SINK, San Clemente
I have been contacting officials who perform graffiti removal for the city. Some people in southwest San Clemente have been doing this for years now, along with random tagging. As for the trash, it’s just getting worse throughout town. People are just throwing it out the windows of their cars and stuff. There is a remodel going on South Ola Vista between Via Cristobal and Avenida Córdoba, and you can see the graffiti for yourself. What I was hoping was that your staff could use these pictures and write a message trying to discourage this from getting worse. I wish we could shame them into stopping or make the issue more public, maybe someone will say something. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks. Editor’s Note: To report graffiti or other vandalism, call 949.361.8385.
Page 10
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY 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.
BUSINESS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com
PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett
Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick
EDITORIAL Group Managing Editor > Rachael Mattice City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz
ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex
City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell
OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed
Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale
Business Manager > Alyssa Garrett
Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho
Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines
ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING
SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller
Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Tim Trent Jake Howard
> Susie Lantz (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)
San Clemente Times, Vol. 12, Issue 40. The SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point 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 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
FOLLOW THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
FACEBOOK.COM/SANCLEMENTETIMES • INSTAGRAM @S_C_TIMES TWITTER.COM/SCTIMESNEWS • LINKEDIN PICKET FENCE MEDIA
www.sanclementetimes.com
SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: City Council Corner by Council Member Chris Hamm
City Councilman Opposes Toll Road Extension through San Clemente
I
n San Clemente, we have been fighting the toll road extension for over 20 years. I would like to say thank you to everyone who fought to stop the toll road from destroying one of San Clemente’s greatest resources, San Onofre State Park. Unfortunately, the time for fighting is not over. We need to work together to raise awareness and grow the number of people to fight. It’s important that we don’t allow the interests of the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) to harm South Orange County. Divisiveness and infighting are not productive and play into the TCA’s plan. Even though we have boundaries denoting the many cities in South Orange County, we are all neighbors. I am here to say we do not support a toll road destroying our state park, open space in San Clemente, Rancho Mission Viejo or San Juan Capistrano. We do not want to see any CITY COUNCIL community’s open space CORNER or its natural resources By Chris Hamm decimated. San Onofre is not just a local resource, it is used by people from all over the world. I stood arm-in-arm with environmentalists and surfers to protect this great asset. Don’t be fooled by the TCA, this is not a question of where to put the toll road. It is a question of how do we abolish the TCA and stop it forever. Unity is power, and only together can we be productive in our effort to stop the toll road from destroying South Orange County. The conservation of our open space is critical to the ecosystem in our region, and I welcome neighbors in all communities to engage in this fight for our environment because once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. Our message is free roads, not toll roads. The lack of fiscal responsibility demonstrated by the TCA is costing taxpayers. The price increase to ride the toll road (10 such increases already since inception) have been irresponsible. The TCA has refinanced the toll road bonds to the point that the roads will not be “free”
until 2053! Toll roads are not solutions or profitable. Don’t support building another toll road that will cost us hundreds of millions of dollars and won’t be free for our grandchildren to use. Join me in calling for the abolishment of the TCA, they have served their purpose. I know many people outside of San Clemente fought beside the environmental groups to preserve the environment and protect the San Mateo Watershed and Trestles, and I ask all of you to stand up once again and fight to end this nightmare forever. Let’s make our voices heard and let the TCA know that no toll road through any open space is acceptable. Don’t be fooled by the TCA’s messaging, join us in preventing the toll road from destroying the precious plant and animal species that call open space their home. There is too much at stake when we look at the overall environmental, financial, social, and health impacts of the toll road. I invite ALL to come together, including those that supported the Save San Onofre Coalition and oppose any toll road extension. Please embrace the no toll road goal and rally to protect our ecosystem everywhere so that all sensitive watersheds are preserved. This issue affects everyone in Orange County. Do we want another Kings Highway that only the rich can use on a regular basis? Or do we want free roads that will be utilized by the masses and reduce traffic? The TCA needs to embrace change and realize that 1980s style massive toll roads are not the solution. There are other mobility solutions that must be explored for South OC. Learn more at www.san-clemente.org/ about-us/city-news/toll-road-informationor email me at hammc@san-clemente.org. Also, attend City Council meetings, which will include status updates on this topic. Chris Hamm is a San Clemente City Council member, who served as mayor in 2015. He was reelected to office in 2016. 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, October 6 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. San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Page 12
120 Avenida Algodon , San Clemente Extremely rare and exuding the ideal combination of casual beach charm and elegant coastal living, this outstanding Mills Act approved 1926 Ole Hanson cottage is one of a kind. Hanson, who founded the city of San Clemente, is renowned for his distinctive style of Spanish-influenced architecture. Professionally remodeled down to the studs and expanded in 2017, the home carefully retains the original look and feel of its historic Hanson character while incorporating state-of-the-art technology and building techniques. Now spanning nearly 1,464 s.f., the cottage displays open-beamed stained-wood vaulted ceilings, oak floors and Saltillo tiles, maple cabinets, copper sinks, Taj Mahal quartzite countertops, barn-style doors, 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Open to the living room, a new kitchen is appointed with stainless steel KitchenAid appliances, a pot filler over the 6-burner gas cooktop, a custom tile backsplash and a custom glass sliding pocket door to the back patio. A similar door enriches the new master suite, which features a luxurious bath and walk-in closet. A look behind the scenes is equally impressive, with all-new electrical and plumbing systems, tankless water heater, new HVAC, and a new tile roof crafted to original 1926 Ole Hanson specifications. Grounds feature all-new landscaping and hardscaping, including a gated front patio with fountain and fire pit, new concrete driveway with parking for 5, a detached garage, and a private rear patio with wood-burning fireplace and wall fountain.
Doug Echelberger Realtor® CalBRE #0117639 Broker CalBRE #01934115 (949) 498-7711 • www.Echelberger.com
SC GETTING OUT San Clemente
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
EDITOR’S PICK
What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF
Thursday | 05 UKULELE LESSONS FOR CHILDREN 4-5 p.m. For children ages 8-13, Heritage Christian Fellowship, along with Musical Mentors, is offering free ukulele lessons. Loaner instruments will be provided, and children who complete their practice and attendance requirements will be awarded their ukulele to keep at the end of the program. Classes begin Sept. 28 and run every Thursday (except Thanksgiving) until Dec. 14. Heritage Christian Fellowship, at 190 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. 949.361.1022. www.heritagesc.org. GROUP FITNESS HIKE 8:30-10:30 a.m. Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers on a 4.8 mile difficult hike over steep, uneven terrain at Little Sycamore. The cost is free, but parking is $3. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach. 949.923.2235. www.lagunacanyon.org. LIVE MUSIC: STEVIE NICKS ILLUSION 7 p.m. Listen to live music at StillWater Spirit and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. www.dpstillwater.com. LIVE THEATER: ‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’ 7 p.m. San Clemente High School presents Little Shop of Horrors, a tantalizing musical that has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years. The SCHS drama department is excited to bring this cult classic to life on the Triton Center stage. All ages are welcome. Ticket prices range from $10-15. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.schsdrama.com. This show continues through Oct. 7. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.492.4165. www.sctritons.com.
Friday | 06 LIVE MUSIC: THEO & ZYDECO PATROL 7:30 p.m. Theo & Zydeco Patrol will perform at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real Suite E. 949.291.4859. www.ivalees.com. LIVE THEATER: ‘DRACULA’ 8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents Dracula, an exciting show for all who love thrills in the theatre. Undeniably entertaining and exhilarating, this play is appropriate for all ages, but still has enough scary moments to keep even jaded San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Photo: Courtesy of the Outlets at San Clemente
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7: 3RD ANNUAL OUTLETS AT SAN CLEMENTE SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA 10 a.m.-8 p.m. You Shop. Everyone Wins. Shop the Outlets at San Clemente and receive exclusive discounts while helping 38 local nonprofit organizations. There will be entertainment, opportunity drawings, prizes, catered lunch and VIP wine and cocktail tastings. Tickets are $35 and Outlets at San Clemente will donate $25 for every ticket purchased to a local nonprofit organization of the shopper’s choice. You can purchase tickets at www.ShopOSC.com/tickets. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.255.0346.
grown-ups on the edge of their seats. Tickets are $27-$37. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www. caminorealplayhouse.org.
Saturday | 07 ACORN DAY 10 a.m-12 p.m. The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to welcome back Acorn Day to O’Neill Regional Park. The family friendly celebration includes crafts, active games, face-painting, acorn and oak tree planting, and a live butterfly enclosure. OC Parks invites visitors to enjoy live animal demonstrations and live music from Shadybrook Bluegrass. Admission and parking are free. O’Neill Regional Park, 30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon. 949.923.2260. LET’S EXPLORE DINOSAURS! 11 a.m. Join the Dana Point Library to learn about Dinosaurs for International Dinosaur month. This is a program for families to enjoy together. Designed for kids ages 3-5 and their favorite grown-up. It is free to attend. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Rd., Dana Point. 949.496.5517. www.ocpl.org/libloc/dana. DANA POINT OKTOBERFEST Noon-7 p.m. The annual Dana Point
Oktoberfest returns for another year at Sea Terrace Park. Guests can choose from a selection of beers, a wide variety of food and live entertainment. Admission to the event is free. Prices vary on food. A collection mug can be purchased for $20 for beer, after the first drink refills are $10. There will be a free shuttle service from Dana Hills High School. The shuttles run from 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sea Terrace Park. 33501 Niguel Road, Dana Point. www.danapointoktoberfest.com. 21ST ANNUAL VINTAGE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 6-10 p.m. Enjoy food, wine, dancing and a lot of fun. 21 and over. Tickets are $40. Mission San Juan Capistrano. 26801 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano. 949 234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.
Sunday | 08 LEARN THE TRUTH ABOUT WOLVES 2 p.m. A presentation will be made by Skie Bender of Educational Outreach for Wolf Haven International, a nonprofit sanctuary for captive-born wolves. She will share her passion and knowledge regarding wolves by dispelling all myths and legends. No registration is required. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.
Page 23
BEND & BREW 11 a.m. Bend & Brew is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente. This is a one-hour yoga class, followed by a pint of beer. It’s a great way to get to know your local fellow yogis and beer drinkers. And best part is, it’s only $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014. www.leftcoastbrewing.com.
Monday | 09 FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. www.communityoutreachalliance.com. YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Classes also occur every morning at 10 a.m. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org. (Cont. on page 24)
www.sanclementetimes.com
GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 23)
Tuesday | 10 OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 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. KARAOKE AT GOODY’S 8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.
Wednesday | 11 FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB 2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482. FREE COMEDY AT BLOOM’S IRISH SPORTS BAR 8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Bloom’s Irish Sports Bar with food and drink specials. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120.
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com. LIVE MUSIC: KALAPANA 8 p.m. Listen to Kalapana at the Coach House. Tickets are $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.
UPCOMING EVENT: OCTOBER 12–15 CARNIVAL COLOSSAL 5-10 p.m. The San Clemente Friends Foundation is excited to bring a four-day festival of family fun, including over 17 rides, games and food trucks, a one-day Special Needs Resource Fair and two days of games of strength presented by the International Highland Games Federation. This carnival runs through the 15th. Ride tickets are $3.75-5. San Clemente City Vista Hermosa Sports Park. 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.276.8866. www.sanclementeparksfoundation.org. HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to San Clemente Times by going to www.sanclementetimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.
At the Movies: ‘American Made’ by Hollywood BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
D
oug Liman’s period satire American Made is the most Tom Cruiseish movie the actor has ever made. The movie star is in a uniform, he’s in an airplane (or a dozen planes), he’s in a fancy looking car, he’s got a hot blonde wife. And with Liman, he has one of his most frequent collaborators of the past decade. After the modest success of the sci-fi adventure The Edge of Tomorrow (2014), Cruise and Liman are back in theaters for an amusing recounting of an unbelievable real story. In Baton Rouge in 1978, bored pilot Barry Seal (Cruise) is offered a secret job by CIA agent Monty Schafer (Domhnall Gleeson) to smuggle cocaine through southern states and Latin America. Soon, Barry becomes so good and in-demand at the job, he quickly gains a small team of pilots and eventually smuggles guns to the country in exchange for other goods. But he still hasn’t quite told his wife
San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Photo: David James/Universal Studios
and mother of his children, Lucy (Sarah Wright), what exactly his new job is, and he becomes a little too chummy with the Latino drug lords. American Made is a fun, entertaining popcorn flick for a lazy weekend viewing. It’s a pretty standard studio film with Cruise, Gleeson and Wright delivering attractive performances for eye candy, a catchy soundtrack and comic relief. The film does take quite a lot of liberties changing some historical instances for the sake of the plot or narrative, though, and viewers should be reminded this is a Hollywood movie and not a documentary. SC
Page 24
SC SC LIVING San Clemente
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
Business Beat News from San Clemente’s business community SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
New Business MURF ELECTRIC BIKES 212 N. El Camino Real, Suite B San Clemente, CA 92672 949.370.3801 www.murfelectricbikes.com Starting out from the confines of owner and head of operations Josh Jones’ garage, San Clemente’s Murf Electric Bikes welcomed its first storefront location in March. Inspired by a poor customer service experience with a competitor electronic bicycle company, Jones started Murf Electric Bikes with the goal of improving the customer experience as well as providing high quality products at a lower cost than his competitors.
“My wife bought me an E-bike for my birthday, and everything was great. I loved it,” Jones said. “We had an issue with the motor, and the manufacturer wouldn’t honor their warranty. Me being the entrepreneur that I am, I saw a huge gap. If they’re doing good business with this terrible customer service, I thought there was an opportunity for us.” Jones said his target customer is “someone who is trying to go from point A to point B more efficiently.” The store sells three different models of electric bicycles: The Fat Murf, the Izzy Beach Cruiser, and the Pax Step-Through Cruiser. Each bike comes with a 48-volt, 15.6 amp hours, battery, which is the maximum legal wattage for bicycles in California. Each bike can travel on its motor for about 25 to 35 miles. Jones and his business partner, Alan Kang, rode from the shop on El Camino Real to Las Pulgas Road and back, a total of about 35 miles, on one battery charge. “A lot of our customers will ride from here to Dana Point and have dinner and come back,” Jones said. “A lot of people
Josh Jones, left, the owner of Murf Electric Bikes, stands with his business partner, Alan Kang. The business opened a storefront in March. Photo: Eric Heinz
ride to San Juan or other places as an alternative to a car.” Murf manufactures the bikes and sells them directly out of the store priced at
$1,500 to $1,700 without accessories. Potential customers can find the shop across the alley from Nomads Canteen and behind The Grill. SC
2017 Chowder Cook-Off Winners Judges’ Best Chowder Individual First place: San Clemente Journal Second place: Kumon Math and Reading Center Third place: Financial Edge Alliance Fourth place: i-5 Freedom Network
Judges’ Best Chowder Restaurant First place: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar Second place: Pierside Restaurant and Bar Third place: Café Mimosa
Jade Steinheimer serves a red clam chowder on behalf of PierPride, which raises funds for maintenance of the San Clemente Pier.
Judges’ Best Decorated Individual First place: USMC 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines Second place: San Clemente Journal Third place: Solitary Exposure Fourth place: PierPride Judges
Best Decorated Restaurant First place: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar Second place: Pierside Restaurant and Bar Third place: Café Mimosa
Aronid Ponce, front, and Estefani Rojas serve The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar white clam chowder during Seafest on Oct. 1 at the San Clemente Pier. Photo: Eric Heinz
Clam Power
People’s Choice Best Chowder Individual
San Clemente Seafest’s 30th year draws hundreds to the Pier PHOTOS AND TEXT BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
H
eated rivalries of the best clam chowder in San Clemente were reignited during the 30th annual San Clemente Seafest clam chowder cook-off. Vendors, patrons and the grom surf competition also took pace. This year’s cook-off winners included a variety of restaurants, individuals and organizations. The San Clemente Pier was also supported by the PierPride organization, which raises funds for maintenance of the Pier. People can now text “SC PIER” to 50155 to donate. SC San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Groms took to the surf break at the San Clemente Pier during Seafest on Oct. 1.
First place: USMC 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines Second place: San Clemente Journal Third place: i-5 Freedom Network Fourth place: San Clemente Exchange Club
People’s Choice Best Chowder Restaurant First place: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar Second place: Pierside Restaurant and Bar Third place: Café Mimosa
Page 25
The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar served up lobsters from the girl during Seafest.
www.sanclementetimes.com
Locals Only
BUSINESS DIRECTORY LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY - In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com. Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com.
ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT
Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program
665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com
AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING
Solstice Heating and Air
2208 El Camino Real, Ste. #1, 949.573.3607, www.solsticehvac.com
ELECTRICAL
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
Arcadia Electric
YOUR BUSINESS HERE!
949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com
FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
HOME DÉCOR
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
APPLIANCES
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
ART GALLERIES
San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal Vitality Integrative Chiropractic
Organics Out Back
PLUMBING
SWIMMING SCHOOL
LANDSCAPING
A to Z Leak Detection
Waterbabies Swim School
1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com
142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing
TERMITES
Costa Verde Landscape
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com
MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE
SC Rider Supply
Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302
Colony Termite Control
1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
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
EDITING SERVICES
2-dogswalking.com
Ricky, 949.973.4128 Pet care –Insured & Bonded
CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com
FOR SALE DRONE FOR SALE DJI Phantom 3 Advanced For Sale By Owner. Asking Price $1,000. Items included: DJI Phantom Advanced 3 Drone, DJI Controller, Polar Pro Controller Anti-Sun Shade, DJI Charger, 5 DJI Batteries!!! LoweProDrone Bag/Backpack Multiple Sets of DJI Propellers Please call (949)350-1312
GARAGE SALES BELLA VISTA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE IN SAN CLEMENTE! Calle del Cerro off Avenida Pico October 7th from 8a-1p (No early birds please.) Furniture, jewelry, antiques, gardening supplies, area rugs and more! GARAGE SALE: SATURDAY, OCT. 7 7:00am. Multiple neighbors on Via Clavel in Flora Vista, San Clemente, will be participating. GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.
POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL
Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design
949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
REALTORS
WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT
Sherry Wild, LuXre Realty
Offshore Construction
BRE # 01480453, 949.275.8937 www.LuXreRealty.com
877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org
MUSIC LESSONS
PET SERVICES/HOUSE SITTING
Judi Heidel: 949.281.6364 www.perfectlycleareditingservices.com
1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com
520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com
949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com
Perfectly Clear Editing Services
217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6661, www.paradisejewelers.com
Paradise Jewelers
Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage
EDIBLE LANDSCAPING
Syrens Hair Parlor
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
Costa Verde Landscape
122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.245.6046, www.shorelinedentalstudio.com
207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com
1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com
MORTGAGES
Shoreline Dental Studio Kristen Ritzau, DDS
Contact Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com
JEWELRY
CONCRETE
647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com
Salon Bleu
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
Eric Johnson, D.D.S.
Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online.
150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate
DENTISTS
Salon Bamboo
SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
MATTRESSES
Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.com
SALONS
Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings
114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
Scott Williams, 949.542.7750
Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
Café Calypso
Capistrano Valley Raingutters
647 Camino de los Mares, Suite 220, 949.616.5470, www.spinalvitality.com
99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com
RESTAURANTS
LIST LOCALS ONLY
USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com. Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com
HELP WANTED LEAD COOK NEEDED. Please apply in person (with your resume) @ Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. Position available immediately. Experience necessary. PART TIME/FLEXIBLE FOR YARD AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Need reliable, honest person for yard work, property maintenance, minor handy man work at small private cat sanctuary. Flexible days;afternoons. Four hours, 2x a month; possible more hours. $22/hour. Must speak good English, love animals, some handyman experience. Email: healinghopecs@att.net
OTHER STUFF THE SCHENKENBERGER’S NEED SOME HELP Steve Shenkenberger, husband and father of five young boys, was riding his mountain bike on Super Bowl Sunday when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver in Laguna Niguel. The family is need of donations for ongoing medical expenses and childcare. Please consider donating at www.gofundme.com/ the-schenkenbergers-medical-bills.
SC BUSINESS DIRECTORY S a n C le m e
n te
San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Page 27
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING
Local Film Producers Give Sneak Preview of ‘Pendleton at 75’ The documentary screening raised funds for the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
F
or over seven decades Camp Pendleton has been an in-demand location for military training on the West Coast, and for over three decades local film producer Robert Kline has been active in creating documentary features on American war and political history. Naturally, it would make sense for the two SoCal fixtures to eventually cross paths, and now they have with the special anniversary documentary Pendleton at 75: The History of Camp Pendleton. Kline and his wife and producing partner Stephanie Heredia have created films with subject matter ranging from the Vietnam War, to John F. Kennedy’s and Ronald Reagan’s presidencies. With Pendleton at 75, viewers are treated to a little bit of U.S. history directly related to South Orange County. On Sept. 25, the San Juan Capistrano Historical Society hosted a special screening of the new documentary at El Adobe de Capistrano, giving over 100 guests a sneak peek of Kline and Heredia’s film. All proceeds from the event were donated to the Historical Society. Kline gave a quick introduction on his inspiration for producing the documentary. “I realized that so many movies and shows have been shot at Camp Pendleton on location, but none of them have actually been about Pendleton,” he said. Heredia mentioned later in an interview that the screening was held on the exact date of Camp Pendleton’s 75th anniversary—the base was opened on Sept. 25, 1942. The film itself is a collaborative effort of Kline, Heredia, local historian Jan Siegel, editor Scott Arundale, and the Camp Pendleton Historical Society. The doc includes a mix of archival footage, news reel footage, personal photos and new interviews from locals on the base. Viewers discover how the base is named after Maj. Gen. Joseph H. Pendleton and his accomplishments in San Diego; how Basilone Road is a tribute to Sgt. John Basilone; and how the base was originally a cattle ranch before the U.S. military realized it was the perfect spot for training. Marines would travel to the base from all over the country by train, and after the Vietnam War, refugees would find shelter there. Even famous faces like Franklin D. Roosevelt and John Wayne would pay a visit to the camp during the WWII days. The documentary is a patriotic homage to all of the hard work and effort the base
Page 28
A small flag carried ashore by the 2nd Battalion, 28th Marines is planted atop Mount Suribachi on Feb. 23, 1945. Official U.S. Marine Corps photograph by Staff Sgt. Louis R. Lowery, USMC. Photo: Courtesy of Camp Pendleton Historical Society
has accomplished for the country since 1942, with a bit of war history thrown in for good measure. The film includes fun tidbits as well, such as Pendleton and San Juan’s own Swallow’s Inn being featured in the 1986 Clint Eastwood movie Heartbreak Ridge. The documentary also included the story of a famous war horse/equine celebrity named Sgt. Reckless, who made his home at Camp Pendleton. Today, there’s a statue erected of Sgt. Reckless at the Pacific Views Event Center at Pendleton. Throughout the film, commentators recollect working or living on the base in the past, and how even after so much time, the Marines and Sailors are still just as ready as ever for battle. The documentary is a bit short at only 50 minutes, but that was intentional, as Kline noted that he “had enough footage to fit a mini-series.” Kline said he anticipates Pendleton at 75 will have its official release by the end of the year. With The Vietnam Experience (1989), JFK Remembered (2013) and The Reagans (2014), Camp Pendleton at 75 is a another deserved addition to Kline’s and Heredia’s filmographies. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING FROM THE ARCHIVES
GUEST OPINION: Wellness and Prevention by Susan Parmelee
Big Tobacco Seeks New Users As cigarette usage drops, e-cigs, vape use rises
T
eenagers and middle school students who had used e-cigarettes or vaping devices in the past 30 days increased from 1.1 percent in 2011 to 11.3 percent in 2015, according to the National Youth Tobacco Survey. This is an alarming increase that has long-term public health implications. Traditional cigarette use among young people has declined dramatically over the past two decades because of prevention efforts that include regulating advertising and access to cigarettes. Unfortunately, the e-cigarette market took off without any regulation, presenting its products as “healthful” and “beneficial” to current traditional cigarette smokers trying to quit smoking. I have heard from young people that the supposed health benefits of e-cigarettes and vaping devices make them safe for teen use. Many teenagers have convinced parents that they would stay away from other substances if they could, “just have an e-cigarette.” Parents must be aware that the nicotine content in vaping devices and e-cigarettes is not regulated and many products that claim to be nicotine-free may contain trace amounts of nicotine. “Many of the ads we’re seeing for ecigarettes today—that rely on sex, independence and rebellion—look eerily like the ads that were used to sell cigarettes and other conventional tobacco products for generations,” said Brian King, Ph.D., deputy director for research translation in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Office on Smoking and Health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned conventional tobacco ads from places that could be regularly viewed by youth, helping to lower youth use of cigarettes. Many e-cigarettes and vaping devices are produced by big tobacco companies
and they are using the same marketing techniques that were so successful at attracting youth to cigarette smoking. Big tobacco markets use these new nicotine delivery devices by recruiting teen icons to market their products, depicting use as fun and attractive. Mitch Zeller, J.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, states that, “… the surge in youth use of novel products like e-cigarettes forces us to confront the reality that the progress we have made in reducing youth cigarette smoking rates is being threatened.” It is our job as a comWELLNESS AND PREVENTION munity to help youth By Susan understand how vital Parmelee these years are for brain development and how easily they can become addicted to substances that can have long-term impacts on their health. Youth need to understand that e-cigarettes and vape devices carry the same risks as cigarette smoking. Please plan on attending a presentation by Jerry Weichman, Ph.D., at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 16, in the Little Theater on the campus of San Clemente High School, located at 700 Avenida Pico. Dr. Weichman is a dynamic presenter who helps adults improve their skills in communicating to and supporting our teens. This is an event you do not want to miss. 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
Photo: Courtesy of Orange County Archives
OLE HANSON’S HOME, CIRCA 1930s: Casa Romantica looked quite different when it was occupied by San Clemente founder Ole Hanson, who lived there until the Great Depression. The home is now a cultural center with gardens enjoyed by thousands each year. Every week, the San Clemente Times will publish a historical photo. Online, SC Times will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photos, please provide information about the photo along with your name for credit to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.
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
Alan Hostetter, left, and Jon Greenblatt start the instruction of a restorative yoga process involving meditation on Oct. 2 at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz
Easy Rest
Sudoku
BY MYLES MELLOR
Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium
Yogis host restorative session at San Clemente Senior Center
Last week’s solution:
San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T See the solution in next week’s issue.
he path to finding inner peace may start with the constant, low-humming frequencies performed by yoga masters. On Oct. 2 at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center, ZenBomb Yoga and Alpha Yoga
Page 30
of Orange County, both of San Clemente, hosted a restorative yoga session with about 40 people. ZenBomb owner Jon Greenblatt, and Alan Hostetter, the owner of Alpha Yoga of Orange County, helped people fall into a meditative trance through words. Following verbal instruction, Greenblatt and Hostetter guided their class through the rest of the sound meditation with other tools and techniques, such as an instrumental demonstration that included Tibetan and crystal bowls, didgeridoos and a large gong. For more information about the two yoga studios or future sound meditation and restorative yoga classes, visit www.zenbombyoga.com and www.alphayogaoc.com. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SPORTS & SC OUTDOORS San Clemente
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Andrew Gansel looks for an opening against Dana Hills in a boys water polo match on Oct. 3. Photo: Steve Breazeale
Triton Report 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.
Defense Holds Strong in Water Polo’s Win Over Dana Hills Holding onto a one-goal lead in the second-half, the San Clemente boys water polo team relied on its defense to get the job done and earn an important victory against Dana Hills on Oct. 3. The Tritons shut out the rival Dolphins in the final two quarters of a South Coast League game on the road in an 8-5 victory. Dana Hills (6-10, 2-1 league) fired shot after shot at the Tritons (10-7, 1-1) in the third and fourth quarters, but it was the San Clemente defense—led by sophomore Christian Hosea, junior Billy Moore and sophomore goalie Trevor Benge—that stood tall. The big swing in momentum happened when Hayden Kahn scored for San Clemente with 11 seconds left in the first half to give the visitors a 6-5 lead. Less than one minute into the third quarter, Ty Matson scored to make it 7-5 and gave the Tritons a cushion. Hosea and Moore were tasked with guarding Dana Hills’ offensive threats, Kaden Likins and Kai Hanson. The Dana Hills prolific duo combined to score three goals and an assist. “It was anyone’s game and to blank them in the second half … that was the game,” San Clemente coach Logan Powell said. “I told them from the beginning it San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
was going to be a defensive battle. With an 8-5 score, that shows both teams were playing some good defense.” San Clemente survived constant pressure from Dana Hills in the third quarter. The Dolphins outshot the Tritons 7-4 but could not find the back of the net. “We made really big stops and just came together as a team and played good defense,” Hosea said. “We pressed them hard.” Seven combined goals were scored in an action-packed second quarter. Matson scored three times in the second and Likins scored twice for Dana Hills, including on a long shot from the Dolphins’ side of the pool that made it 3-3. The Tritons will host El Toro (4-11, 0-1) in a league match on Thursday, Oct. 5.
Girls Volleyball Looks to Bounce Back Against Wolverines A three-set sweep at the hands of San Juan Hills on Sept. 28 ended a solid win streak for the San Clemente girls volleyball team. Heading into the South Coast League matchup against the Stallions, the Tritons (3-4, 0-3) had won three matches in a row, which included a run through the Tesoro Tournament. San Clemente will travel to play Aliso Niguel (11-9, 2-2) on Thursday, Oct. 5.
Cross Country League Prelims Canceled Due to Corona Fire As a result of the ongoing fire in Corona, the San Clemente boys and girls cross country team’s Sea View League prelim meet was canceled this week. The race venue was scheduled to take place at Irvine Regional Park, but the park was being used by firefighters as a staging area. The event has not been rescheduled as of Oct. 4. Page 32
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
SUP World Converges in Dana Point for Pacific Paddle Games The world’s best paddlers, amateurs compete at Doheny State Beach SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
D
oheny State Beach welcomed the stand-up paddleboarding world over the weekend, as the third installment of the Pacific Paddle Games was contested. The event, which is the largest gathering of the SUP community on the planet, featured closely contested SUP races, both in the technical and distance variety, along with open division contests for paddlers of all ages and skills. After a full day of seeding heats on Sept. 30, the finals for the professionals were held on Oct. 1 and they delivered plenty of excitement. Connor Baxter, 23, of Hawaii, won his third consecutive men’s professional combined title and Annabel Anderson, 36, of New Zealand, claimed the combined women’s professional title. Professionals had to compete in both the distance and technical races to qualify for the overall title. Baxter battled his way to a win in the men’s pro technical race and was pushed to the limit by Australia’s Lincoln Dews. Dews chased down Baxter late in the race, which features paddlers navigating
Stand-up paddleboarders run into the surf in the men’s pro technical race at the Pacific Paddle Games. Photo: Daniel Ritz
through buoys, and the two were side-byside for the final 10 minutes. It came down to a sprint to the finish line and Baxter won, edging Dews by just two seconds. Earlier in the day, Baxter won the men’s pro distance race, finishing nine seconds ahead of runner-up Michael Booth and
Danny Ching, who placed third. Ching placed second in the overall championship and Matt Nottage placed third. Anderson dominated in both the technical and distance categories. The New Zealander cleared the next
closest competitor, Fiona Wylde, by 23 seconds en route to winning the women’s pro distance race. But the Kiwi saved her best performance for the technical finals. Anderson, who built up an early lead, finished 29 seconds ahead of Dana Point’s Shae Foudy to win the race and clinch the overall title. Olivia Piana claimed second overall in the women’s pro combined title race and Foudy took third. Foudy also placed sixth in the distance race. A SUP youth movement would be a theme at the Games, as a young class of paddlers showed they can compete on the biggest stages. Baxter, Dews, Piana, Foudy, Wylde and Titouan Puyo all reached the podium in the professional division and all six paddlers are under the age of 26. Matt Poole and Lizzie Welborn claimed the men’s and women’s pro prone combined division titles, respectively, while Ryan Funk and Jade Howson claimed the boys and girls pro junior titles, respectively. For a full list of winners, visit www. sanclementetimes.com. SC
Tritons Edge Edison 23-20, Extend Record Win Streak BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T
he San Clemente football team’s record-setting win streak was threatened by Edison on Sept. 29, but in the end, the Tritons prevailed. San Clemente survived a defensive battle with the Chargers at home and did enough to pull off a 23-20 nonleague victory. The win was San Clemente’s 12th in a row, which is a program record. The current streak, which dates back to last season, broke the old record of 10 consecutive wins recorded by the 1976 squad. It was also the second time in the streak that the Tritons (6-0) defeated the Chargers (3-2). San Clemente beat Edison in last year’s CIF SoCal Regional Bowl Game. With the game still hanging in the balance, San Clemente’s Bryce Wilson delivered a big play by corralling a muffed Edison punt return with 5:47 remaining. Tristan Trager kicked a 34-yard field goal on the ensuing drive to essentially put the game away and give San Clemente a 23-13 lead with just under three minutes to go. But Edison would not go away easily. The Chargers responded with a six-play march downfield that ended with quarterback Griffin O’Connor connecting with Brandon Moradian for a score to cut into San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
San Clemente’s lead, 23-20. “I felt like we had some opportunities to take control of the game and we didn’t do that,” San Clemente coach Jaime Ortiz said. “Edison did a great job battling back and made the game a lot closer than I thought it would be in the second half.” Momentum swung toward San Clemente midway through the second quarter. Trailing 6-0 following two Edison field goals, the Tritons scored 17 unanswered points. The Tritons took their first lead when quarterback Brendan Costello threaded a 10-yard pass to Chase Berman for a touchdown early in the second. On the Chargers’ next possession, the Tritons’ defense forced a fumble and Aaron Frohner recovered to give the home team the ball deep in Edison territory. Three plays later, Costello burst through the middle of the Edison defense for an 18-yard scoring run and San Clemente led 14-6. The Tritons’ defense forced an Edison three-and-out on the next series, highlighted by a Rob Farney sack on third down, which set San Clemente up with a short field. Trager kicked a 35-yard field goal to close out the half and stake San Clemente to a 17-6 advantage. Edison started the third quarter off with
San Clemente receiver Chase Berman dives into the end zone for a touchdown against Edison on Sept. 29. Photo: Eric Heinz
a convincing nine-play, 80-yard scoring drive. O’Connor ended it with a 25-yard touchdown strike that found David Atencio in the back of the end zone, cutting into the Tritons’ lead, 17-13. The rhythm of the game slowed to a crawl in the second half, as yellow flags were flying against the Tritons in the third quarter. San Clemente piled up eight penalties for 96 yards in the third quarter alone. “We shot ourselves in the foot (with penalties) but that was definitely a tough game and it was a good quality opponent.
Page 33
That was a grind to the end,” Costello said. Trager kicked three field goals of 35, 41 and 34 yards. San Clemente running back Austin Whitsett ran for a game-high 142 yards. Costello completed 12 of 25 attempts for 121 yards to go with his passing and rushing touchdown. He also threw his first interception of the year, which was recorded by Edison’s Isaiah Palmer. San Clemente will be on a bye this week and open South Coast League play at home against Tesoro on Friday, Oct. 13. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SC SC SURF San Clemente
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
Team USA Wins Gold
VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship Results Final Team Results: 1 (Gold) – USA 2 (Silver) – Hawaii 3 (Bronze) – Japan 4 (Copper) – Australia 5 – France 6 – Brazil 7 – Costa Rica 8 – Argentina 9 – Portugal 10 – New Zealand
For only the second time, the U.S. surf program wins gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Girls Under 16 1 (Gold) – Alyssa Spencer (USA) 2 (Silver) – Keala Tomoda-Bannert (HAW) 3 (Bronze) – Samantha Sibley (USA) 4 (Copper) – Gabriela Bryan (HAW)
F
or America’s next generation of surf stars, the future is now. Claiming a team gold medal for only the second time in the U.S. program’s storied history, the boys and girls rallied to win team gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Championship. Heading into the final day of the week-long contest—taking place in quality, highly contestable surf at Okuragahama Beach in Hyuga, Japan—the Americans were in the lead, but needed some solid results to bring home the gold. That’s exactly what they got, including standout performances from a couple of local ladies. In the Under 16 Girls final, Team USA’s Alyssa Spencer got on a roll early and never looked back. Hailing from Carlsbad, she opened the final with a near-perfect 9.87 to jump out to an early lead. She held on to claim her first individual gold medal, while San Clemente’s Samantha Sibley earned a bronze medal for her part in the action-packed final. “This has been my dream since I started surfing,” Spencer said. “I can’t believe it’s actually true. I’m speechless. I wanted the gold so bad, and getting that nine right off the bat boosted my confidence so much. After that, I just needed another score to back it up.”
Team USA won gold at the VISSLA ISA World Junior Surfing Championship in Hyuga, Japan on Oct. 1. Photo: Courtesy of ISA/Sean Evans
The girls kept rolling in the Under 18 final. Hawaii’s Brisa Hennessy successfully defended her 2016 VISSLA ISA Junior title, while San Clemente’s Kirra Pinkerton stepped up against the older competitors to earn a copper medal (fourth place) and help cement Team USA’s standings. On the men’s side, South Orange County surfers Kade Matson and Cole Houshmand put in valiant efforts in the early rounds of the contest, but were relegated to the cheering section by the last day. Carrying the torch for the American boys, Los Angeles’ Noah Hill stepped up his game in the Boys Under 18. After snapping his femur trying a full-rotation air in 2016, he bounced back from injury and finished with a silver medal. Winning the division was Argentina’s Ignacio Gundesen. “I am so happy to win this,” Gundesen said. “I am so proud that I’ve earned a top-eight spot for my country to compete in the ISA Aloha Cup next year. I couldn’t
GROM OF THE WEEK
CARSON KROPFL BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
L
ast November, we featured young Carson Kropfl as Grom of the Week after he took a board to the dome at the Stoke-O-Rama, received five stitches and just missed making the final. Shortly thereafter, Carson launched his own business called Locker Board. Cutting down used skateboard decks, he ingeniously reshaped the boards to fit inside a small school locker. What a difference a year makes. Recently, 12-year-old Carson found his way onto the ABC TV show Shark Tank, where he and his mom pitched Locker Board.
San Clemente Times October 5–11, 2017
Photo: Courtesy
Guest shark Sir Richard Branson went head over heels for the idea and is now throwing $65,000 into the company for a 20 percent stake. “One idea I invested in is Locker Board, where a 12-year-old entrepreneur named Carson designs and produces upcycled
have done this without my team. This is for them. This is for Argentina.” Finally, in the Boys Under 16 final, Malibu’s Taro Watanabe barely missed out on a gold medal of his own. In the dying second of the final, Japan’s Joh Azuchi ripped a wave all the way from out the back to the beach. The judges threw him an 8.6 for the effort. It was enough to edge out Watanabe by a mere 0.16 of a point. “I can’t believe this happened,” Azuchi said afterward. “I am so stoked. I was able to win because there are so many people behind me, supporting me.” The combined results of the American surfers proved to be just enough to edge out a savvy Hawaiian squad. Earlier this year it was announced that the sport of surfing would be included in the 2020 Olympic Games in Japan. The VISSLA ISA World Junior Championship is the first step toward the Games. “What an incredible week of competition. We have witnessed history here
skateboards that fit into backpacks and lockers,” Branson stated on his Virgin company blog. “It’s great to see the spark to want to solve a problem and make that into a business that can improve the lives of the people around you from such a young entrepreneur. I see a lot of myself in Carson—I began dabbling in business from a very young age—although I have to say I think his idea is much more solid than my childhood plans to breed budgies or grow Christmas trees.” It’s not every week we get to quote Richard Branson in the Grom of the Week section of the paper. It’s also worth mentioning that the Orange County Business Journal has nominated him for “Innovator of the Year.” Congrats and keep up the good work, Carson! SC
Page 34
Boys Under 16 1 (Gold) – Joh Azuchi (JPN) 2 (Silver) – Taro Watanabe (USA) 3 (Bronze) – Keanu Chris Kamiyama (JPN) 4 (Copper) – Lucas Vicente (BRA) Girls Under 18 1 (Gold) – Brisa Hennessy (HAW) 2 (Silver) – Leilani McGonagle (CRC) 3 (Bronze) – Summer Macedo (HAW) 4 (Copper) – Kirra Pinkerton (USA) Boys Under 18 1 (Gold) – Ignacio Gundesen (ARG) 2 (Silver) – Noah Hill (USA) 3 (Bronze) – Cody Young (HAW) 4 (Copper) – Dylan Moffat (AUS)
in Japan on many levels,” ISA President Fernando Aguerre said. “We crowned the first VISSLA ISA World Champions in Japan in 27 years and also saw new nations earn their first gold medals…We certainly will see some of the athletes that competed this week in Japan among those representing their nations at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in three years.” SC
SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 67-70 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Thursday: Small swell mix early for thigh-waist high (2-3’) sets at best spots. SSW forerunners adding a few more waves through the afternoon/ evening. Light winds early, becoming light+ onshore in the afternoon. Outlook: Nice size SSW swell builds Friday and peaks over the weekend with shoulder high to overhead surf at best breaks. Modest NW swell mixes in. Morning winds are light. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook. into each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.
www.sanclementetimes.com