October 19, 2017

LO C A L

N EWS

October 19–25, 2017 YO U

C A N

U S E

Return to Sender: Q&A with San Clemente’s Dante Pettis PAGE 20 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 42

Illuminating Efforts

Pier Pride hosts second fundraiser for the iconic San Clemente structure EYE ON SC/PAGE 6

People from the Assistance League of Capistrano Valley participated in Pier Pride’s Light Up the Pier on Oct. 13.

The event helped raise funds for and bring awareness to maintenance needs at the San Clemente Pier. Photo: Eric Heinz

Aliso Viejo Man Faces Double Murder Charges after Shooting EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

Baha’i Center to Celebrate 200th Birthday of Founder SC LIVING/PAGE 16

www.sanclementetimes.com

Survey Shows San Clemente Opposes Toll Roads EYE ON SC/PAGE 6

VOTE FOR THE BEST OF SAN CLEMENTE AT SANCLEMENTETIMES.COM

SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

Orange County Transportation Authority is planning to complete a study on traffic congestion on I-5 through San Clemente by mid-2018. Photo: File

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week City Council Approves Miramar Parking Waivers, Latest Step in Revamping Theater THE LATEST: On Oct. 17, the City Council voted to approve the 92 historic parking spot waivers needed to facilitate the Miramar Event Center in North Beach when it opens for business again. The waivers are related to how much business is expected to be generated in the immediate area.

The city conducted its own parking study to determine the peak hours of parking spot occupation at North Beach when the Miramar eventually opens and found that there should be enough parking for the event center, the Ole Hanson Beach Club and Casino San Clemente, all of which are next-door to one another.

The parking waivers were the first step in approving the plans for the Miramar, which will include refurbishing the main area as a performing arts venue and the bowling alley, which is slated to house four or five restaurants. The California Coastal Commission will eventually review the plans.

WHAT’S NEXT: Because the Miramar is a historic site, the city says that if more parking is needed in North Beach, the city San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

has agreed to construct additional parking either east of the event centers in a lot next to Avenida Pico and El Camino Real or at the north corner of Pico.

To help North Beach residents adjacent to or near the Miramar protect their residential parking, the city is looking to establish a parking sticker program for those areas.

Additionally, the city is waiting for an injunction on permitting in many commercial zones in San Clemente from an Orange County Superior Court judge following the update of its latest housing laws. A hearing has been scheduled for the first week of November to have the injunction lifted.

The Miramar Theater, as it was previously known, has been closed since 1992.

—Eric Heinz

Aliso Viejo Man Charged with Two Counts of Murder; DA Seeks Life in Prison without Parole THE LATEST: Luke William Ferguson, 26, of Aliso Viejo, was scheduled to be arraigned on Oct. 17 in Orange County Superior Court for charges of two counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder with sentencing enhancements of special circumstances for the multiple murders as well as using a firearm to cause personal injury or death.

Ferguson is accused of fatally shooting his father, Douglas Ferguson, 59, and his father’s girlfriend, Lisa Cosenza, 51, at 2:50 p.m. on Oct. 12 at their home in The Hamptons subdivision in Aliso Viejo.

Ferguson is also accused of shooting two other men, ages 23 and 48.

According to a GoFundMe page, Bran-

don Dufault, 23, was taking a shower at the home when the door was forced open and Ferguson allegedly opened fire. The bullet hit Dufault and shattered glass into his eyes, which may never fully heal, the page stated. A bullet was lodged in his tonsils that surgeons later removed. The other man has been identified in multiple media reports as Todd Kuchar, 48, who was living in the home with the three other people at the time of the shooting. Kuchar has since been released from the hospital and conducted interviews with local television stations.

According to a press release from the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (DA), after shooting the four people, Ferguson stole one of the surviving victims’ car and fled the scene. He was later arrested in Inglewood after a multiple-hours standoff with local police.

Court documents show Ferguson was also convicted of felony stalking in 2012 in Los Angeles.

Cosenza was an account executive for a short time in 2013 for Picket Fence Media, which publishes the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch. She is also a graduate of Dana Hills High School.

WHAT’S NEXT: Ferguson’s arraignment has been continued to Nov. 3. If Ferguson is convicted of the charges, the DA is seeking a sentence of life in state prison without the possibility of parole. —Daniel Ritz and EH

Open Space Forms Requested in Light of Toll Road Debate THE LATEST: City Attorney Scott Smith said his law firm has obtained prior agreements among the city of San Clemente, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other governmental entities from years ago that mandate San Clemente must maintain open space as a form of mitigation to its development over the last few decades.

The significance of these agreements are related to San Clemente’s ongoing fight against the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) effort to construct a toll road through San Clemente. The theory is that if San Clemente can protect its open space, the TCA won’t have room to construct a road.

Additionally, Patricia Holloway, the Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees District 3 representative who represents most San Clemente schools, said the school district voted 6-1 on Oct. 11 to support the lawsuits filed by The Reserve subdivision in San Clemente, which challenges the validity of the way in which the TCA established protective agreements with environmental organizations.

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Regarding San Clemente’s Interstate 5 corridor, Kurt Brotcke, a strategic planner with Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA), said during the Oct. 17 City Council meeting that officials are looking to conduct additional traffic studies in South Orange County in order to determine whether further extensions to lanes along the interstate would be necessary.

OCTA is nearing completion of a $230 million expansion project from the Beach Cities exit to Avenida Pico in which more lanes and an HOV lane are planned.

OCTA is looking at traffic figures through the year 2040 and is looking to finish the traffic study by mid-2018.

WHAT’S NEXT: The San Clemente Times has requested copies of the agreements related to open space to examine in full.

A story related to the details will be published once the documents have been obtained. —EH

Public Concern Mounts on SONGS THE LATEST: Time is running out before spent nuclear fuel rods will be buried at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).

Although no action was taken regarding the permit to store the spent nuclear fuel during the Oct. 11 California Coastal Commission meeting in Chula Vista, many people continued to speak out against the commission’s granting of the permit.

Most of the concerns from the public continue to revolve around the reliability of the canisters that will hold the spent nuclear fuel, the Hi-Storm UMAX model, which are five-eighths of an inch thick— which is not enough, critics say.

WHAT’S NEXT: Southern California Edison officials expect to start transferring the radioactive spent fuel rods by the end of the year or the beginning of 2018. A full video of the Coastal Commission meeting can be found in a link to this article on www.sanclementetimes.com or at www. coastal.ca.gov. —EH

City Manager Raise Approved THE LATEST: City Manager James Makshanoff will receive a monthly salary increase from $18,200 to $19,110. Makshanoff was appointed to his position by the city of San Clemente in 2014.

WHAT’S NEXT: During the Oct. 17 City Council meeting, Council member Lori Donchak commended Makshanoff for his work during what she said was “an exceptionally challenging year.” —EH www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY STAFF

San Clemente Emergency Preparedness Fair to Take Place on Oct. 21 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints will host an Emergency Preparedness Fair from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 310 Avenida Vista Montana.

This free public event features topics such as solar cooking, water purification, sustenance gardening, planning for pets, active shooter drills and more. Representatives from Orange County Fire Authority, the city of San Clemente CERT team and other local organizations will be present to help and provide information.

San Clemente Haunted Houses Available for Viewing Every inch of the residence located at 141 Avenida Barcelona in San Clemente is decorated for Halloween. Decorating begins in September and will be ready on October 23 through Halloween. The decorations include the following: a threefourths-sized horse-drawn hearse, a skeleton playing an organ, a candelabra rotating in thin air, a vortex that appears as if it goes on forever and much more. Viewers interested in seeing the decorations can stop by to take pictures until Oct. 31.

Casa Romantica will host a 1920sthemed haunted house and gardens from 7-9 p.m. on Oct. 27, 28 and 31.

Werewolves, vampires and ghosts wait behind every corner of the historic home.

Portions of the walk take place on unpaved or uneven historic grounds. All participants must sign a waiver for this event.

Casa Creepy Haunted House is suitable for most families with children ages 8 and up and discretion is advised. Admission is $7 for children 7 and younger and $12 for ages 13 and older.

Ante Up for Autism to Take Place on Oct. 28 This year marks the 11th anniversary of the annual “Ante Up for Autism” casino and gala event, which will take place at the recently renovated Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach on Saturday, Oct. 28, at 5:30 p.m.

Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), a national nonprofit organization that helps families living with autism navigate the challenges of the disorder, is putting on the event.

Guests, sponsors, celebrities and poker professionals will come together for the casino-themed fundraiser. All proceeds Page 4

benefit TACA families. For more information, visit www.tacanow.org.

Center for Spiritual Living to Host Forgiveness Workshop on Oct. 22 Author and motivational speaker Rev. Harry Morgan Moses will come to the Center for Spiritual Living Capistrano Valley, located at 1201 Puerta del Sol, on Sunday, Oct. 22, from noon-2:30 p.m. to share his forgiveness workshop designed to help people reconcile negative feelings through love and understanding.

The event is free. During the workshop, Moses will offer exercises and insight into releasing negative energy to heal, grow and transform lives.

For more information about the forgiveness workshop, visit the Center’s website at www.cslcv.org or call 949.240.6463.

Red Ribbon Week Parade to Take Place on Del Mar on Oct. 23 The community is invited to support local youth at the Red Ribbon Parade on Avenida Del Mar on Monday, Oct. 23, as they demonstrate their commitment to a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. The parade kicks off National Red Ribbon Week, a campaign dedicated to taking a stand against drug abuse. Parade participants include students, teachers and parents as well as members of the San Clemente City Council, Orange County Sheriff’s Department, Orange County Fire Authority, and local civic groups. The parade begins at 4:15 p.m. at the top of Avenida Del Mar. Participants will march down to the San Clemente Community Center (100 N. Calle Seville) at 4:45 p.m. where they will hold a pep rally with performances and cheers from the San Clemente High School Marching Band and Dance Team to continue the anti-drug message. The pep rally will include an address from Mayor Kathy Ward, Mayor Pro Tem Tim Brown and Chief of Police Services Lt. Mike Peters. Annual awards for Red Ribbon contests will be presented to San Clemente schools and clubs.

Children wearing their Red Ribbon wristbands can visit San Clemente 7-11 stores for a free Slurpee, BallPark Pizza for a free ice cream, and Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria for a free spaghetti dinner during Red Ribbon Week (Oct. 23-29). Join the community to promote the Orange County Red Ribbon theme: “Your Future is Key So Stay Drug Free!”

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 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Protestors of the proposed toll roads through San Clemente and South Orange County hold a sign with the slogan “Not One More Inch” on Oct. 12 at the Transportation Corridor Agencies meeting in Irvine.

Photo: Eric Heinz

Survey Says San Clemente Responds to TCA’s August Questionnaire

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

ccording to a survey initiated by the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) in August, most people in Orange County would welcome a toll road or some kind of additional thoroughfare through South Orange County; not surprisingly, San Clemente residents remained vehemently opposed to such construction, the survey results showed.

Conducted by SmithJohnson Research, the survey interviewed 1,000 people and found that most people in the county were in favor of a “through-pass,” which would be a toll road through the city of San Clemente, or adding lanes to Interstate 5.

Doing nothing was mostly opposed and the Beltway option that would connect Toll Road 73 to Toll Road 241 also did not receive favorable marks.

However, a secondary survey that interviewed 590 residents in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point found one out of four residents, through two separate ballots, said they were opposed to any through-pass alignment. The survey also used the San Clemente City Council’s opinion of not wanting a toll road through the city in its questions.

Mike Kraman, CEO of the TCA, said the survey was intended to display the opinions of people countywide as well as in the Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente areas.

“It’s important we get this information out there, and fundamentally what we’re (seeing) is that people want traffic relief,” Kraman said during a conference call with media personnel. “We looked at several of the ideas creating the most controversy, San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

but this is not an endorsement of anything.

We’re releasing this to show (responses) related to traffic concerns, and we hope this info helps bring people to the table.”

The most lopsided result of the countywide questions asked if people ever experienced traffic congestions on I-5 in South Orange County, without specifying dates or time periods to allot for recent construction projects which could correlate to an influx of traffic. Eighty-two percent of respondents stated “often” and the rest of the answers were “seldom, almost never or undecided.” “…San Clemente is no longer this sleepy little surfing town, and they’re not happy about that, and there were a number of people who saw the problem,” said Bereket Kelile of SmithJohnson Research during the teleconference.

Kelile said the consensus countywide was “pretty solidified” regarding the toll roads and that opinions didn’t change much once they heard the arguments presented by the survey.

“SmithJohnson Research drafted, conducted and analyzed 1,590 multi-language (English and Spanish) surveys consisting of 31 questions lasting approximately 20 minutes each countywide in Orange County, which includes 1,000 surveys for the entire county and 590 surveys for oversampling in San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point,” said Jeff Corless, the public information officer for the TCA. “The countywide base surveys cost $72,311.40 and the oversample surveys cost $42,468.60. Forty percent of the surveys were completed via mobile phones and approximately 10 percent were completed online.”

San Clemente Mayor Kathy Ward, who is a director on the Foothills/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency, told the San Clemente Times on Oct. 12 that she was unaware of any survey and hadn’t seen most of the questions until a day after it was released to the media in person and in conference call.

Ward said she requested the survey, but

wasn’t able to receive it until later in the afternoon on Wednesday.

Ward said she has requested to agendize the survey for the next public meeting for the TCA so she can ask questions and wants “through-pass” defined by what it means for the city of San Clemente.

Mark McGuire, a member of the Coalition to Save San Clemente (CSSC), disputed the findings of the results and said the information related to population increase and traffic density is skewed. McGuire cited a County of Orange document that showed population increases since 1960, and that the growth wasn’t reflective of a 400,000 population influx in the next eight years, which was stated on the TCA’s survey.

“The survey used knowingly and demonstrably false information in its questions,” McGuire said in an emailed statement. “When you include lies in a survey, you will not get accurate poll results.”

See the full results of the survey with questions at this article on www.sanclementetimes.com.

Petitioning the TCA During the Oct. 12 joint meeting of the San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor and the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor agencies, CSSC co-leader Eva O’Keefe presented the TCA board with what she said were 8,000 signatures of a petition that opposes all toll roads through South Orange County.

More signatures, up to 12,000 total, may also be collected by other activists in San Clemente, O’Keefe said.

“The petition is being sent to the TCA; we just dropped it off at Senator Kamala Harris’s office, (Orange County Supervisor, District 5) Lisa Bartlett, to Gov. (Jerry) Brown,” O’Keefe said.

A new campaign the CSSC has engaged is called Not One More Inch that intends to stop the expansion of the 241 toll road at Oso Parkway. The campaign is working with environmental groups and city officials in its effort.

Another argument that’s been bandied at City Council and other public meetings is that home sellers are seeing potential buyers pull out of escrow once they learn of the potential toll road alignments. The San Clemente Times reached out to the Orange County Association of Realtors a couple weeks ago regarding disclosure of potential projects, and the basic explanation was realtors do not have to disclose until a solidified project is approved. “...As soon as (potential buyers) find out that homes are near a (proposed) toll road route, they’re pulling out,” O’Keefe said.

The current toll road alignments, of which there are now 20, are still being discussed through the California Environmental Quality Act process to determine adverse effects and to take public comment. Scoping and technical studies are currently underway, and a draft environmental impact report is scheduled by the TCA to be completed in 2020. SC

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Community Meetings SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22

DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday.

Avenida Del Mar. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24

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.

BEACHES, PARKS AND REC MASTER PLAN MEETING 6 p.m. A special meeting has been planned by the Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission, which will discuss the latest Master Plan updates. San Clemente City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio. 949.361.8200. www.sanclemente.org.

SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS 7 p.m. The club meets every Tuesday, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for social and networking time. San Clemente Baha’i Center.

3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 805.794.0653. www.sanclementetoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org.

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING 7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You (BILY) 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 25

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.

KIWANIS SAN CLEMENTE Noon. Kiwanis San Clemente works to help maintain the quality of life for all people through volunteerism.

Tommy’s Restaurant, 1409 S. El Camino Real. 949.366.5423. www. sanclementekiwanis.com.

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.

www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

As the sun set, people lit their cell phones and flashlights to participate in Pier Pride’s annual fundraising event on Oct. 13. Photo: Eric Heinz

Illuminating Effort Pier Pride hosts second fundraiser for the iconic San Clemente structure

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

s the sun dipped below the horizon over the Pacific Ocean, people joined together at the San Clemente Pier to celebrate the efforts of Pier Pride on Oct. 13.

The organization Pier Pride was established about a year and a half ago as a way to help raise funds for the iconic San Clemente structure following the dissolution of the state’s redevelopment agency funds.

Hundreds of twinkling lights from cell phones and flashlights created a constellation of white dots suspended by the dark of night. The goal was to line the perimeter of the Pier for night photography taken by drones.

Council member Lori Donchak and Julia Darden have been leading the Pier Pride effort since the beginning of the program.

“In our first year, the goal of the Pier Pride foundation was to get enough community support to paint the Pier, and if you walk the Pier now, it has a professional paint primer and polish to it,” Donchak said prior to the Oct. 13 event. “It’s marinequality, so it’s guaranteed for 10 years.

We’re trying to replace the educational signs on the Pier as our 2018 goal because it’ll be the 90th birthday of the Pier. We divide our responsibilities with the city.”

The city of San Clemente spends about $1 million to maintain the structural integrity of the Pier, and Pier Pride focuses on maintaining accessibility and other needs such as replacing nails or planks.

The Pier will undergo other maintenance repairs in the near future including the installation of netting underneath as well as other deterrents of pigeons, which are being blamed for the continuous subpar water samplings taken at the location

by Orange County Health Care Agency.

Pier Pride has a few more fundraisers before the end of October, which was dedicated as Pier Pride Month by the city of San Clemente. A fishing derby will take place at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, as well as a fundraiser at Blaze Pizza at the Outlets at San Clemente on Wednesday, Oct. 25.

To see a photo gallery of the Oct. 13 event, visit this story online at www.sanclementetimes.com. SC

Hundreds of people gathered at the San Clemente Pier to support Pier Pride’s efforts in raising funds for maintenance of the city’s iconic structure on Oct. 13. Photo: Courtesy of Jim Habig

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www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

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

Nuking it Out

CITY EDITOR Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com

In a fight against storing radioactive waste, we are in the dark

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It is not that we might be in incalculable peril that worries me. It is that for the most part, the entire populace including most of the decision-makers seem only minimally informed.

I am not going to get into the heavy debate about how critical the various risks are. But we do know at least a few things: Southern California Edison, the majority owner of SONGS, has not been forthcoming in its communication with the public about this issue—they have a long record of repeated dissembling of inaccurate and incomplete information about the risk, the responsibility and the reasoning behind the proposed plans. Neither, it seems, have any of the auxiliary entities involved.

And experts disagree strongly.

I am not advocating any position on this issue. I am suggesting that educating oneself from a variety of sources should be a paramount priority for anyone who owns property here or is planning to live in the area for any length of time.

Jim Kempton is a writer and surfer who has learned the hard way that education has a price, but it is not nearly as costly as the consequences of ignorance. He can be reached at jimkempton1@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

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ut of an inescapable curiosity, I attended a forum about the current state of the waste storage for the radioactive fuel rods that have been untreated since the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) has been shut down.

It was an illuminating experience, even if some of the speakers had conflicting positions on how great the danger is and what the best solution should be.

One of the most critical issues facing San Clemente and the entire Orange County area, this dilemma of how to deal with the spent fuel rods from our nuclear power plant is perhaps the most important decision the region will make for our children and all future history. These highly toxic, potentially lethal rods now lie in open pools of water in what most parties agree is a vulnerable and dangerous state.

The rods are currently planned to be

buried on the bluff next to the retired plant, just a short distance from the edge and near the beach at San Onofre itself.

Without defending or attacking the claims or validity, it should be noted that these are also near a vital military base on an earthquake fault line and on a dramatically eroding coastal ridgeline. Whether there is high likelihood or little, the fact is that if a catastrophic event was to occur it could render large potions of this region uninhabitable for the foreseeable future—as in millennia. One would think that this would be a point of concern for those of us living in this WAVELENGTHS shadow.

By Jim Kempton And yet when I bring this subject up to surfers at San Onofre, citizens in San Clemente or political leaders in Orange County I get a shrug or a glazed look.

I am always amazed. We are able to bring thousands of determined citizens to protest the extension of a toll road though our town. But burying thousands upon thousands of pounds of radioactive waste material 50 yards from the beach in canisters that only guarantee the lifetime of 30 years, which if exposed incorrectly could be catastrophic to the entire region, brings barely a yawn.

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Tim Trent Jake Howard

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) San Clemente Times, Vol. 12, Issue 42. 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.

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San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

Letters to the Editor KUDOS TO ‘LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS’ TOM and VONNE BARNES, San Clemente

We enjoyed another outstanding performance by the theatre arts program at San Clemente High School. Little Shop of Horrors is quite a hoot. Not the easiest play to stage, it was done with aplomb by the students. As with all her productions, director Laurie Mason gets everyone involved, and the proverbial “cast of thousands” makes the show very special. The enthusiasm of the large cast is infectious.

The set design is especially important, and as the plant Audrey Two (voiced brilliantly by Braxton McGrath) grows to man-eating size, we wait in anticipation of its request to “feed me.” Zach Thomas is a convincing Seymour with the right combination of “nerdiness and neuroses” in the role. Francesca Monson is just right for the role of the ditzy, but sometimes cerebral, Audrey. Zack Mallgrave and Justine McCoy competently round out the primary cast as flower shop owner Mr. Mushnik and biker/dentist Oren Scrivello.

San Clemente has something special

in the theatre arts program. What other high school performs in a facility that is a cafeteria and was once called a multipurpose room? All other high schools have real theaters, especially ones with more than 3,000 students. A school more than 53 years old that still does not have a performing arts facility is shameful. When is the Capistrano Unified School District going to build a modern theater for these brilliant programs? There seems to be plenty of money available for the facilities of other programs, why not live theater?

Editor’s note: A new performing arts center is scheduled on the San Clemente High School facilities master plan, but construction dates have not been determined.

CHOOSE LIFE OVER TOLL ROAD EARLE MCNEIL, San Clemente

I agree with Donna Carter in her letter in the San Clemente Times Oct. 12-18 edition. A lot of these surveys tend to skew toward their bias. I believe we do need the toll road that intersects the Interstate 5 freeway at San Onofre. Whatever you think of the surfers or the fish in the stream, the health and safety of human beings comes first. Be the threat from fire or nuclear waste, we do need another fast exit out of town.

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Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Oct. 20, at 8 a.m. at Panera Bread at the Outlets at San Clemente Beachside Chat will take place at a different location for this week only at Panera Bread at the Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. This week’s guest will be Wayne Eggleston, who will speak about the Miramar Event Center updates. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Eric Heinz every Friday. All are welcome.

CLARIFICATION: In the article “City Council Approves New Housing Rules to Conform with State Laws,” in the October 12-18 edition of the San Clemente Times, the City Council approved to work with staff and the Planning Commission to review the laws for final approval. That will come before City Council at a later date. The laws have not yet been codified by the City Council.

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. www.sanclementetimes.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 | 19 LIVE MUSIC: SHAWN JONES 7 p.m. Listen to live music at Iva Lee’s Restaurant by Shawn Jones. 555 N. El Camino Real Suite E, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE MUSIC: AMERICAN MADE 7:30 p.m. Listen to live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Friday | 20 BOO CRUISE 5 p.m. Join Special Fishies Aquatic Freedom and Education for their Boo Cruise event. Cruises take off every 20 minutes.

There is a costume contest and raffles on each trip and on land. Entertainment will surprise those waiting in line. $5 per person. Dana Wharf Sportfishing. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 714.352.9714. www.specialfishies.org.

CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE PRESENTS ‘CHARLY’ 8 p.m. Emmy-nominated producer/director Pamela Peak and producer Lauren Zeiner bring the On-Impulse Actors back to the Cabrillo Playhouse. The play, Charly, is about a middle-aged man who struggles with disabilities but eventually overcomes them. Tickets are $20. The show runs from Oct. 27 to Nov. 12. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.439.8735. www. pamelapeakproductions.com/charly-2017.

LIVE MUSIC: RICHIE FURAY 8 p.m. Listen to live music at the Coach House. Tickets are $30. Doors open at 6 p.m. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. www.thecoachhouse.com.

LIVE MUSIC: BIG OPEN SKY 8:30 p.m. Listen to live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Saturday | 21 MAKE AND TAKE PUMPKIN WITH SUCCULENTS 9 a.m. Join Armstrong Garden to create San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

Photo: File

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21: SAN CLEMENTE OKTOBERFEST Noon-9 p.m. Join in the German-themed atmosphere with beer games, food and live entertainment. There will be multiple events and contests during the festivities, including stein holding, keg bowling, hula hoop beer chugging and more. North Beach parking lot, 1832 N. El Camino Real. www.scoktoberfest.com.

a fun and unique planter for your porch or patio. All material will be supplied.

The price is $49 and prior registration is required. Contact your local store for more information. 32382 Del Obispo Street, Suite D, San Juan Capistrano.

949.661.6666. info@armstrongarden.com.

donation of one non-perishable food item per person. Doheny State Beach.

25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive. www.dohenystatebeach.org.

FAREWELL TO THE SWALLOWS BBQ Noon-4 p.m. The San Juan Capistrano Fiesta Association presents its annual Farewell to the Swallows BBQ at Zoomars Petting Zoo. Food is $5 a plate, and beer and wine will be available to purchase.

Live music will be provided by the Kelly Boys. Zoomars, 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1976. www.swallowsparade.com.

DOHENY STATE BEACH HALLOWEEN HAUNT 6:30-8:30 p.m. Bring the family to celebrate Halloween in a fun and safe environment with arts and crafts, a fun zone and a variety of educational booths. The event will occur in picnic sites A and B. Admission is free, but guests are requested to bring a

STAND-UP COMEDY: LASS YOUR ASS OFF AT ADELE’S 7:30 p.m. The headliner is the very funny Steve Mittleman, “the guy with no chin,” who is a highly accomplished standup comedian and comedy writer who has appeared in over 50 standup television appearances. Tickets are $15. Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn, 2600 Avenida Del Presidente. 949.481.1222. www.adelesanclementeinn.com.

Sunday | 22 WOOFSTOCK Noon-4 p.m. A free community event for dogs and their owners, there will be a dog and owner costume contest, a dog parade, live entertainment and more. Demonstrations will also be given by California State Parks rangers with K9 units. San Clemente

Page 12

State Beach, Picnic Bowl. 949.366.8599. www.sanonofreparksfoundation.org.

OPERA OF THE HIGH SEAS: A MUSICAL EVENT 6-8:30 p.m. Don’t miss a voyage of operatic proportions as acclaimed vocalists take guests on a musical journey of opera arias celebrating pirates, mermaids, seas and sails. There will be light refreshments and a cash bar. Tickets are $75 for attendees 21 and older, $35 for 21 and under, or $50 for members. The Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. www.ocean-institute.org.

Monday | 23 YOGA IN THE PARK 5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. 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 14) www.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 12)

Tuesday | 24 BEND & BREW 6 p.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. Cost to attend is $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente.

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 | 25 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. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

FREE COMEDY 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. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

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.

Photo: Melinda Sue Gordon/Twentieth Century Fox Film Corp.

At the Movies: Who Won the ‘Battle of the Sexes’?

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

O

ne year after winning “Best Actress” at the Academy Awards for the lighthearted musical La La Land, Emma Stone is back on screen with the biopic Battle of the Sexes. Reunited with her Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) co-star Steve Carell, who reunites with filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris from Little Miss Sunshine (2006), the film has been having a rather modest theater run despite the big names.

In 1973, Billie Jean King (Stone) is the most successful female tennis player in the world, while male tennis pro Bobby Riggs (Carell) is struggling with accepting

Page 14

retirement while also battling a gambling problem. Right when executive director Jack Kramer (Bill Pullman) kicks out the women from the Association of Tennis Professionals, King and manager Gladys Heldman (Sarah Silverman) decide to open their own association. Meanwhile, Riggs decides to challenge himself by offering a match against female players.

Elisabeth Shue and Andrea Riseborough co-star as the two leads’ love interests. Battle of the Sexes is a primarily light and fun period piece with more comic relief than serious drama. Carell and Stone are appropriately cast as their tennis characters, especially Stone who might actually be even better than she was in La La Land. The subplots, particularly on King’s and Riggs’ personal lives, could have used a little more development, but the chemistry between the actors almost makes up for it. For fans of tennis or 1970s pop culture, Battle of the Sexes is an easy viewing for a free weekend. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Bicentennial Birthday San Clemente Bahá’í Center to celebrate 200th birthday of founder

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

O

n Oct. 21 and 22, the Bahá’ís of San Clemente will celebrate the 200th birthday of their faith’s founder, Bahá’u’lláh.

Celebrations will include barbecues, music, educational programs and more.

“The Bahá’í faith has been able to unite people from all religious backgrounds,” said Habib Hosseiny, a leader at the San Clemente Bahá’í Center. “We believe in the oneness of humanity. We don’t see differences when we see each other. Men and women are equal.”

According to the Bahá’í website, Bahá’u’lláh was born in Tehran, Iran in 1817. He was seen as the “divine educator”

and faced imprisonment for decades for preaching his version of religious interpretations.

“The Light of Unity Festival (celebrated during the weekend) is a celebration of the transformative impact of Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on the lives of families, neighborhoods and communities around the country and the world,” Hosseiny said.

A barbecue lunch is planned from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22, at the Bahá’í Center, located at 3316 Ave Del Presidente in San Clemente. The lunch will be followed by a brief introduction about the significance of the bicentennial celebration. Lani Nash, a country music singer, will perform during the children’s activities.

A bicentennial celebration of Bahá’u’lláh is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Laguna Hills Community Center, located at 25555 Alicia Pkwy. RSVP is required.

Another celebration will take place at 3 p.m. on Oct. 22 at the Forum Theater at Festival of Arts, located at 650 Laguna Canyon Road in Laguna Beach.

For more information, visit www.bahaicenter.com or call 1.800.228.6483. SC

Pamela Joy Glass puts her hand over her heart prior to the 30th annual Hunger Walk on Oct. 15 at the San Clemente Community Center. Photo: Eric Heinz

Stepping Up

FAM surpasses 30 years of annual Hunger Walk

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

E

ach year, Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) hosts the Hunger Walk in order to raise funds, food and awareness of hunger in South Orange County.

On Oct. 15, people walked from the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 N. Calle Seville, up around Avenida Del Mar and back to the center for the cause.

FAM is a nonprofit organization that helps people find housing and provides resources to families to prevent homelessness.

For more information about the organization and how to help FAM curtail hunger in South Orange County, visit www.family-assistance.org. SC Page 16

www.sanclementetimes.com

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

Milestone Birthdays Twenty-one is a rite of passage

I

t’s the last quarter of the calendar year, and the clock races ahead, but before calling it quits for 2017 my family has a few milestone birthdays to mark: 21, 50 and 80.

Depending on the number of candles on the cake, or the individual, big birthdays are a time of celebration, frustration or reflection.

My Generation X cousin is halfheartedly planning her party as she nears the midcentury mark. My Silent Generation dad is wholeheartedly refusing to attend any event honoring him. But, my Millennial son’s exuberance over his 21st birthday more than compensates for their partypooper attitudes.

Prior to his big birthday, my youngest son downloaded an app on his iPhone to countdown the days to his milestone celebration. Daily, his phone reminded him that soon he’d see his bare hand covered in multi-colored stamps—a symbolic gift courtesy of the big city bouncers at the numerous bars visited on his birthday.

On the date of his birth, I called my son to wish him a happy birthday and deliver my usual words of caution, “Have fun, but not too much.” On cue, my son repeated his ritualistic reply, “I won’t, I’ll be fine.”

My happy-go-lucky husband deemed my worry about the planned celebration unnecessary, but I defended my stance citing science. Legally, my youngest son is no longer a minor; the state he resides in considers him a full-fledged adult, but science and this mom aren’t so sure about his status.

Neuroscience suggests that most young adults don’t reach their full brain maturity until around age 25. Of course, brain development is as varied as the individual, but most experts agree that the prefrontal cortex is still developing into one’s early 20s.

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The prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain responsible for decision making, impulse control and risk assessment. I think it’s the cruelest irony when young adults—living in a culture of instant gratification—need logical thought the most, yet their prefrontal cortex functions aren’t fully formed.

Despite an outward adult appearance, most of those in their early 20s are still waiting for that last part of their brain to catch up and reach maturity.

My son’s big birthday bash, and ensuing hangover, mark his rite of passage. Twentyone is without doubt a milestone, but it’s a somewhat watered-down version, like the overpriced cocktails in the upscale bars where he celebrated his birthday.

Since turning 21, my son can add beer to his cart at the grocery store and well-meaning waiters might offer him wine with dinner, but otherwise very little changes.

Taking time to reflect on the changes this birthday brings, I realize LIFE’S A BEACH as both my son and I age,

By Shelley Murphy we begin to share more in common and our differences seem more subtle.

Of course, my Millennial and I still disagree from time to time, most often about technology, or my high-tech indifference.

I continue to watch my favorite network programs on a television. My son streams popular shows and views them on his phone. I rely on my mailman and check my mailbox daily. My son equates his mailbox with a landline and has no use for either.

Twenty-one is more than candles on a birthday cake, it is a milestone. The swift hands of time took my son’s childhood and made him an adult; but time can’t change the fact that I’ll forever be his mom. To that I’ll raise a glass, cheers!

Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband for the past 18 years, where she raised her two sons. She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times since 2006. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Photo: Courtesy of NASA

NIXON AND NASA President Richard M. Nixon and Dr. James C. Fletcher, NASA Administrator, discussed the proposed space shuttle vehicle in San Clemente on Jan. 5, 1972. The president announced on that day that the United States should proceed at once with the development of an entirely new type of space transportation system designed to help transform the space frontier into familiar territory.

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.

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

Last week’s solution:

See the solution in next week’s issue.

Did you know that...

• According to a USC forecast, Orange County rents look to raise 3.8% by 2018, to an average of $2080/month • So far in 2017, 764 San Clemente homes have closed escrow, with an average price of $1,016,887 • Corelogic estimates that over the last 5 years, Orange County residences have enjoyed over $125 Billion in new equity

SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Return to Sender Q&A with NCAA career punt return for a touchdown recordholder Dante Pettis

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

D

ante Pettis was told to think of himself as a counterpuncher when assessing an incoming punt.

The JSerra Catholic High School product-turnedstandout-punt returner and receiver for the University of Washington’s football team will watch an opposing team purposefully boot a punt into the stratosphere with him on the other side of the field. He instinctively wants to make a play, but has learned to be content with biding his time and calling for a fair catch.

He’ll sometimes go quarter after quarter without seeing a punt he likes. He’ll be neutralized while the Huskies’ opponent lands a few special teams jabs.

But Pettis, like any good counterpuncher, knows a slipup will eventually happen, opening the door for him to deliver the knockout blow.

When a punt comes his way that looks returnable, the 6-foot-1-inch San Clemente native turns into a combination of speed and power that torches would-be tacklers and punt coverage schemes on a regular basis.

He has returned a punt for a touchdown an NCAArecord eight times, tying Oklahoma’s Antonio Perkins and Texas Tech’s Wes Welker for the most in college football history with a 77-yard house call against Fresno State on Sept. 16.

The return was vintage Pettis.

After fielding the ball at the Huskies’ 23-yard line he broke down the sideline, cut back to midfield, shed three would-be tackles and strolled into the end zone.

The play capped off a stretch of three consecutive games in which he returned a punt for a touchdown, which also tied an NCAA record. One week earlier, against Montana, Pettis returned his seventh career punt for a touchdown, breaking the old Pac-12 record previously held by DeSean Jackson.

While his highlight reel plays on special teams have grabbed national headlines this season, Pettis is making a huge impact at his natural position of wide receiver. He’s caught 44 passes for 472 yards and six touchdowns in seven games. “(Pettis) is probably the most impressive field position player in this conference, to me, in terms of how he understands the game,” said Pac-12 Network analyst Yogi Roth.

“He’s also an artist. I don’t think we talk enough about the artistry of the (receiver) position. When I look at him, he defines that. You look at how he comes out of breaks, how he understands angles, how he utilizes his body to find spaces in zones. (Washington) has such a unique offense and he’s been doing those things ever since he got there.”

Pettis has five games to break the punt return for a touchdown record and stand alone in NCAA history. The Huskies are also 6-1 and chasing a second straight Pac-12 title.

The San Clemente Times caught up with Pettis to talk about his place in history, how he visualizes while on the field and what makes him such a dynamic player.

San Clemente Times: Have you had time to reflect back on that record-tying punt return and where it places you in NCAA history?

Dante Pettis: To be honest, I haven’t thought about it

San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

Dante Pettis celebrates after returning a punt for a touchdown against Montana on Sept. 9. Pettis is tied for the NCAA career punt return for a touchdown record. Photo: Lindsay Wasson/Red Box Pictures

Dante Pettis (8) carries the ball against Cal in a Pac-12 football game on Oct. 7. Photo: Scott Ecklund/Red Box Pictures

too much. I know that in five to 10 years I’ll look back and say ‘Dang, that was pretty special’. But right now, it’s just not something I’m very focused on. We’re in the middle of the season and trying to play the best football we can play and get better every week. So focusing on something like an individual award like that isn’t really going to help us out.

Is it frustrating when teams kick away from you now?

That’s nothing out of the ordinary. Coach Petersen always tells me we’re counterpunchers. There will be times we might have four punts in a row and I’ll have to fair catch it. But then, all of a sudden, we’ll get one that they hit a little too far and then it’s like, ‘OK, here’s our chance’.

Page 20

How much do your improvisational skills or instincts play into you returning a punt?

You always want to trust the return. You never want to fully abort it unless something is wide open. You get through the first line by trusting (the scheme) then after that you kind of have to make something happen on your own. That’s where the improv ability kind of takes over.

You have to scan the field, see some openings and try and make somebody miss.

What’s better, catching a touchdown pass or returning a punt for a touchdown?

Definitely running back a punt for a touchdown. There aren’t too many of those that happen. Especially because you know it’s a full team effort. Receiving touchdowns are (a team effort) too, but there can be a broken coverage or something (on defense). In a punt return, every single person on that field is blocking for you only so it’s a pretty special feeling.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve worked on over the years to improve on the field?

I think it’s been my strength and my confidence. I definitely got a lot stronger to where I can run through some arm tackles. I got a little faster too, which comes with the strength. And my confidence, just thinking I can break through or break a tackle is important.

How important is it to you to break the NCAA punt return touchdown record? Is that a goal you have set for the rest of the season?

I wouldn’t say it’s a goal I have set. I would like to do it, obviously. That’d be pretty special. But at the end of the day, if I break the record and the season doesn’t go like we want it to go, I don’t think I would be too happy about that. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

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.

Water Polo Edges Aliso to Remain in Title Hunt Connor De Phillippi (fourth from left) and his Monoplast by Land Motorsport teammates celebrate their victory at Petit Le Mans. Photo: Courtesy

The San Clemente boys water polo team earned an important South Coast League victory against Aliso Niguel on the road on Oct. 17.

The Tritons (16-9, 4-1 league) defeated the Wolverines (20-2, 5-1) 9-8 to jump into a tie for first place in league.

San Clemente lost earlier this season to the Wolverines, who entered Tuesday’s game with an undefeated record in league play.

San Clemente will host second-place Dana Hills (7-9, 3-2) on Thursday, Oct. 19.

De Phillippi Earns First USA Victory at Petit Le Mans SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

C

onnor De Phillippi and his racing team broke through for their first win on American soil on Oct. 7, cruising to a convincing victory at the Motul Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta.

The race is a 10-hour test of endurance and De Phillippi, a San Clemente native, and his Montaplast by Land Motorsport teammates Sheldon van der Linde and Christopher Mies led throughout.

The team, which races competitively around the world, maintained a healthy lead for much of the race, but was challenged down the stretch. De Phillippi was put in the car last to finish out the last leg of the race and pulled away from a late-charging competitor to win by 15.5 seconds.

“We simply ran a perfect race, made no mistakes and had a race car that was untouchable by the competition,” De Phil-

Second Half Surge Sends Football Past Tesoro Behind a strong second-half performance, the San Clemente football team came back to beat Tesoro 30-14 at home on Oct. 13 in the Tritons’ South Coast League opener.

San Clemente, which trailed at the half for the first time all season, scored on three of its four second-half possessions and the defense blanked the Titans over the final 24 minutes while recording two takeaways.

The second-half effort allowed the Tritons to pull away from what had been a one-point game at the midway point.

Senior running back Austin Whitsett had a dominant performance, carrying the ball for 148 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. Whitsett’s touchdown run was a 20-yard burst that increased San Clemente’s lead to 30-14 with just over four minutes to go.

Connor De Phillippi races in an Audi at Petit Le Mans. Photo: Courtesy

lippi said in a release. “This win will forever be a great memory.”

The win came in the team’s third start this season. De Phillippi and Montaplast

by Land Motorsport placed second at the Rolex 24 at Daytona and fourth at the Twelve Hours of Sebring earlier this year. SC

Garrett Named High Point Lacrosse Captain

Senior defensive back Branden Wilson and Matt Waskowski both tallied interceptions, which killed what little momentum Tesoro had in the second half.

Junior quarterback Brendan Costello kept the offense humming. He ran for a 20-yard touchdown in the second quarter and tossed a 28-yard touchdown pass to Jay Baggs early in the third to help San Clemente pull away.

The Tritons (7-0, 1-0) will travel to play San Juan Hills (5-3, 1-1) in a league contest on Friday, Oct. 20. The Stallions are coming off a 35-7 loss to Mission Viejo, but possess a stingy defense that is allowing an average of just over 18 points per game.

Girls Golf Finishes Regular Season Undefeated A well-rounded, consistent and talented roster powered the San Clemente girls golf team to an undefeated regular season.

The Tritons (14-0) went undefeated through the South Coast League, claiming the league hardware for a second consecutive season.

San Clemente began competition in the South Coast League finals on Oct. 16 at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo.

Mari Gandia-Mak, Olivia French and Julia Kalez finished in the top-7 at league finals and earned a berth in next week’s CIF-SS Individual competition.

Cross Country Teams Return from OC Championships The San Clemente boys and girls cross country teams had solid showings racing on an entirely new course at the Orange County Championships over the weekend.

The girls team placed 11th in the sweepstakes race at Oak Canyon Park in Orange.

The team was led by Chandler Horton, who placed 11th overall as an individual.

The boys team sent several grade-level teams into competition. The varsity team placed fourth, the sophomores took third and the freshmen placed seventh.

The boys will run at the Mt. SAC Invitational while the girls will compete at the Riverside Invitational this weekend.

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

an Clemente native Peyton Garrett was named team captain for the High Point University men’s lacrosse team for the upcoming season, coach Jon Torpey announced last week.

Joining Garrett as team captains are Jason Ashwood, Zach Tuell and Keegan O’Connor.

Garrett, a 2014 US Lacrosse All-American and three-time South Coast league offensive MVP at San Clemente High School, has 24 career points, including 14 goals and 10 assists, at High Point. The soon-to-be senior was limited last year due to injury, but still scored four goals, five assists and eight ground balls for the Pan-

San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

Peyton Garrett was named a team captain for High Point University’s men’s lacrosse team.

Photo: HPU Athletic Communications

thers. As a sophomore, Garrett appeared in 15 games and tallied 12 points (eight goals, four assists) and 12 ground balls.

The Panthers begin their season against Duke on the road on Thursday, Feb. 8, 2018. SC

San Clemente running back Austin Whitsett (33) ran for 148 yards and a touchdown against Tesoro on Oct. 13.

Photo: Eric Heinz

Page 23

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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

APPLIANCES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

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

Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings

Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.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

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

JEWELRY

Paradise Jewelers

166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6661, www.paradisejewelers.com

LANDSCAPING

Costa Verde Landscape

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

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Bill Metzger Plumbing

1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com

Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302

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

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

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

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

SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

WEBSITE DESIGN

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

REALTORS

Scott Kidd, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 949.498.0487, skidd@bhhscal.com

Sherry Wild, LuXre Realty

RESTAURANTS

San Clemente Website Design

949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction

877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

BRE # 01480453, 949.275.8937 www.LuXreRealty.com

949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD

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

PEST/TERMITE CONTROL

accuratetermitecontrol.com

LIST LOCALS ONLY

USE LOCALS ONLY

949.837.6483

Colony Termite Control

1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection

1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.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 2012 HONDA RUCKUS SCOOTER Excellent condition and barely used (323 miles). All black. $1700; cash only. Email norbincalif@gmail. com if interested.

YOKOHAMA GEOLANDER A/T TIRES Set of four used Yokohama Geolander A/T tires with roughly 10k miles on them. $250 for the full set. Cash only. Email norbincalif@ gmail.com if interested.

CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point.

Carpet and flooring remnants also available. Mike 949-240-1545.

GARGAGE SALE Saturday, October 21st - 8 am - 1 pm.

420 Bolivia, San Clemente (Rancho San Clemente) Household Items, tools, men’s and women’s clothing, kitchen dinette set and other misc.

Danman’s Music School

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

GARAGE SALES

MUSIC LESSONS

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

CLASSIFIEDS

In print and online 52 weeks a year.

View online at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

GARAGE SALE OCTOBER 21 & 22 8:00 to 3:00. 517 Monterey Lane, San Clemente. Phone 949-338-3378 Old and newer: Tools, fishing equip, rekeying machine, WW2 camera, ox yoke, horse single tree, paintings, much more!

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

Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED SECURITY OFFICER San Juan Capistrano Day Shift 11am -7pm. Entry level Training and Uniforms Provided. Courteous person to work in a Hospital environment.

Greeting people and making rounds Start pay 13.50 per hr. Spanish speaking preferred. Casitas Security LLC PPO# 12290. 714-356-6606

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@picketfencemedia.com

San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

Page 25

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SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surfers Stepping Up

PADDLE-OUT SCHEDULED FOR PATRICK STEELE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

With fires ravaging Sonoma County, local surfers rally to help

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

N

obody’s prepared to lose everything. My mom keeps saying, “it’s just stuff,” but nobody’s ever really prepared for the devastation of a flood, or in the case of my folks, a fire.

Last week, about the time I usually sit down to write this column, I got a text from my mom in Santa Rosa: “We’ve been evacuated, but we’re safe,” she assured me. The Tubbs Fire was raging in Sonoma and Napa counties and quickly engulfed the family home, which burned to the ground in the matter of minutes—along with all of their neighbors’ houses. They had enough time to grab their computer, their last will and testament, their loving dog and the old lady that lived across the street. It’s fair to say they saved her life.

The fires in Sonoma and Napa Counties can only be described as apocalyptic. Entire neighborhoods with hundreds of homes have burned to the ground. Hotels, shopping centers, all gone in an instant. Now, a week later, as the fires continue to burn, rough estimates are that 6,000 houses have been lost and an upwards of 50,000 people have been displaced. For reference, about 35,000 people live in Dana Point.

When the fires broke out I received a remarkable amount of messages and support from friends asking what they could do to help. By midweek I told my mom, “I can’t hold back the flood, people want to help, I’m driving up.”

My wife and I decided to see if we could collect some stuff to bring a little relief to

GROM OF THE WEEK

MAC O’BRIEN

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

M

eet Mac O’Brien. “He is a really good surfer and he is really smart and he is a pretty nice kid,” says his twin sister, Ally.

The two of them attend Las Palmas Elementary School, and a couple weeks ago Ally suggested her brother, Mac, would be an ideal Grom of the Week. With a thirdplace finish at the recent SeaFest contest, the pint-sized ripper is on the up-and-up.

First getting on a board when he was 5 years old, Mac said he gets psyched on

San Clemente Times October 19–25, 2017

A child’s bicycle rests against the remains of a subdivision in Sonoma County, where wildfires caused tens of thousands of people to evacuate last week. Photo: Jake Howard

family and friends. We made a Facebook post, listed a few items and directed people to drop off stuff at her Pilates studio in San Juan Capistrano.

Less than 24 hours after hosting the Stoke-O-Rama surf contest, and 48 hours after loading 700 surfboards into a container bound for underprivileged kids in South Africa, Dane Gudauskas was the first to respond. He loaded us up with boxes of new Vans, new jackets, Positive Vibe Warriors T-shirts, blankets and so much other goodness. From there we were rolling. Our local surf community rallied in a huge way.

Friends that I’ve surfed with and worked with for years came out of the woodwork. I don’t know if they wanted to have the spotlight shone on them here, they probably don’t, but I’m going to do it anyway. I’ve always known Art Brewer was the man, but he really rose to the occasion. Rallying friends and neighbors, by the time I got to his house on Friday afternoon to pick up relief supplies his front yard looked like a Red Cross center. Other

surfing “when the waves are good, I’m having fun with my friends, and the vibes are good!”

We couldn’t agree more. Typically surfing with his family and friends, he does admit that he’d happily head to the beach with “anyone who will go surf!”

Local spots such as Church, Lowers, Punta Mita and Dragon’s Teeth are among his favorites. He concedes that he’s pretty much stoked to surf “anywhere the waves are.” As far as dream spots, he’d love to get himself into the tank at Kelly Slater’s wave pool.

Fluent in Spanish, stoked and styling, Mac’s a born surfer. And with a sister as supportive as Ally, he’s going places!

local surf photographers like Tom Servais and J.P. Van Swae were more than generous. Surf industry insider Bruce Beach stepped up, and his boys, Max (last week’s Grom of the Week) and 2-year-old Albee, even added some of their favorite things to the pile. Frankie D’Andrea, a Bay Area native, got behind the effort and leveraged his vast network. My wife’s pilates clients and friends were equally generous.

Ultimately, we ended up filling my truck and a friend’s Suburban with relief supplies. We drove up early Saturday morning and hit the ground running in the afternoon. Maverick’s water safety guru Frank Quirarte met us up there. He’d also collected relief supplies. We put a plan into action and got busy.

My mom’s good friend, the director of human resources at Korbel Champagne, gave us access to their facility to serve as a distribution point. We leveraged all of our local connections and got the word out to people in the Santa Rosa community who were still reeling from the fires.

The stories were heartbreaking. We

A celebration of life paddle-out will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 22 at T-Street for friends of Patrick Steele.

Patrick grew up surfing T-Street and resided in San Clemente with his wife and son. He died suddenly while in the hospital for pain treatment.

Those who knew Patrick are invited Patrick Steele, to celebrate his life 1975-2017. and the power of Photo: Courtesy the resurrection. A formal memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Dec. 9 at Presbyterian Church of the Master, located at 26051 Marguerite Parkway in Mission Viejo.

doled out as many hugs as we did toothbrushes. Our goal was always to provide people with a few necessities to help them get their feet under them: a couple articles of clothing, toiletries, a blanket, a case of water, etc. I think our little surf crew accomplished this. Because there are so many people currently living out of their cars, it was important not to overload them, while still providing enough comfort and support to help them start moving forward. The need is massive and overwhelming as this disaster continues to unfold.

The Red Cross, FEMA, the National Guard, churches and other community relief groups are hard at work helping people affected by the fires, but surfers are also exceptionally well-suited for working in disaster zones. I’ve never been more proud to be a surfer than I was this week. SC

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 64-69 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair Thursday: Fading SSW swell is still good for chest-head high+ (4-6’) surf with some larger sets at top spots. Light winds early, becoming light+ onshore in the afternoon.

Outlook: Wave heights are fun size but gradually fading the back half of the week with a blend of SSW and NW swell. Morning winds are light with building onshore flow each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

Mac O’Brien. Photo: Courtesy of the O’Brien family

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