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LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week

As TCA Moves Forward with Toll Road Proposals, San Clemente Continues to Mount Defenses

THE LATEST: The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) selected seven options out of the 20 proposals to study further, many of which would go through San Clemente. Four of the ideas are toll road connections to the 241. A screening document was released to the public on Dec. 18 showing the ideas, which are:

• Idea 9: Connect Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway to Avery Parkway and SR 73

• Idea 11: Add I-5 general-purpose lanes from I-405 to San Diego County line

• Idea 12: Add I-5 HOT lanes from I-405 to San Diego County line

• Idea 13: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via the Western Alignment (local connection at La Novia Avenue)

• Idea 14: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via La Pata Avenue crossing (local connection at Avenida Pico)

• Idea 17: Connect SR-241 to I-5 via Shorecliffs (local connection at Avenida Vaquero)

• Idea 18: Connect SR-241 to SR-73 and extend Crown Valley Parkway to SR-241

Other ideas that have been considered were deemed part of other jurisdictions, not feasible due to costs or legal agreements, ineffective or premature.

During a TCA joint board meeting on Dec. 14, members of the public complained that a survey the TCA published in October misled the people it questioned. The survey, conducted by SmithJohnson Research, used language such as “through-pass” to describe Idea 14, which would cut through the middle of San Clemente. Opponents of any toll roads in San Clemente said it was confusing.

Council member Kathy Ward, the city of San Clemente representative to the Foothill/Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency, questioned the presentation on Dec. 14 by TCA ofﬁcials regarding the language used in the surveys.

On Dec. 19, City Council approved to initiate a General Plan amendment that would eliminate references to the toll roads, namely SR-241 and zoning that acknowledges it, within the plan and

site-speciﬁc plans. The city also voted to initiate “any amendment or amendments” to site-speciﬁc plans to clarify the meaning of the city’s voter-approved Measure V, which protects open space in San Clemente from development unless the public votes otherwise. Because a Talega joint powers agreement with San Clemente states the subdivision would always oppose a toll road or highway going through San Clemente in 2008, the city is seeking to strengthen its laws that prohibit any additional freeways through its borders.

City Attorney Scott Smith announced on Tuesday that the city and County of Orange had settled a portion of an encompassing lawsuit the city ﬁled against the Board of Supervisors and the TCA. Orange County agreed with the city that the Oso Parkway Bridge and Los Patrones Parkway must remain arterial routes that cannot be tolled. The legislation that authorizes the toll roads, Smith said, mandates roads can only be tolled if there are no other ways to fund such construction. As the Oso bridge and Los Patrones are already fully funded, the argument is they can’t collect tolls.

This is signiﬁcant to opponents of the toll roads because many say opening the current terminus of the 241 route to tolls would pave the way to continue southbound construction toward San Clemente.

Oso bridge is expected to be completed by March, City Council member Lori Donchak said during the meeting.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Planning Commission will review the recommended changes to the General Plan and then submit recommendations to City Council before it is approved.

The TCA is planning to begin its environmental impact report and environmental impact statement scoping by mid- to late 2018. The draft documents will not be

the U.S. Coast Guard and announced over radio he was armed with explosive devices,” the OCSD press release stated. “He also called a local television station to report he had explosives in the apartment.”

Members of the OCSD SWAT, Hazardous Devices Section (HDS) and Crisis Assessment Team (CAT) responded to the scene at about 12:30 p.m. The Orange County Fire Authority also aided in the response, according to a press release.

Police said at 3:09 p.m. deputies had contact with the suspect but that Cudin was not talking much. Over a loudspeaker, deputies could be heard trying to persuade him out of the unit. Tear gas was seen coming out of the complex from the side of Calle Del Cerro throughout the ordeal.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to Orange County jail records, Cudin posted bail earlier this week and was released. The next court date for Cudin had not been posted to Orange County Superior Court dockets as of Dec. 20. —EH

ready until at least 2020. —Eric Heinz

Man Arrested for Claiming to Have ‘Explosives,’ Assaulting Caregiver in San Clemente

THE LATEST: Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) ofﬁcials said a man who claimed to have “explosives” and assaulted his caregiver in the Vista Paciﬁca residential complex at 1062 Calle Del Cerro in San Clemente surrendered and was taken into custody around 5:15 p.m. on Dec. 18. The man had barricaded himself in a unit, and deputies had to use tear gas and break down a door in order to arrest him. A video provided to the San Clemente Times on Dec. 19 showed the man coming out of his apartment with his hands in the air. No injuries have been reported at this time.

Christopher Cudin, 42, of San Clemente, was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and criminal threats, an OCSD press release on Tuesday stated.

San Clemente Police Chief Lt. Mike Peters said following a security sweep, it was discovered Cudin had tampered with a gas stove and had a few camping propane tanks in his possession, but no weapons that would detonate on command were found.

Police said they evacuated the area of the complex as the situation developed. The standoff with ofﬁcers lasted about ﬁve hours.

Peters told the SC Times that Cudin was with his caregiver and assaulted the caregiver before alerting media outlets and authorities that he had explosives. The caregiver was able to escape the situation, Peters said. The condition of the caregiver is unknown at this time.

“The suspect used VHF radio to contact

School District Approves Contract for Solar Power Conversion

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Uniﬁed School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Dec. 6 to award an $18 million contract to REC Solar Commercial Corporation, a solar energy ﬁrm based in San Luis Obispo, for the conversion of six high school campuses and the district headquarters to solar power.

The ﬁrm will be responsible for designing and installing the solar panel shade structures. The $18,372,631 contract includes capital cost, performance guarantee, and operations and maintenance.

Previously, at the board’s Nov. 8 meeting, ARC Alternatives, the district’s energy advisor, presented an update on the Request for Proposals process for the solar energy project. The board approved funding for a solar feasibility study back in May, and on July 26, the board heard an update on that study, which found that all of the sites in question are able to accommodate the solar panels.

On Sept. 25, the district released its Requests for Proposals for the solar project. Russell Driver, of ARC Alternatives, reported that the district received 13 proposals on Oct. 20.

The solar project is expected to save about $849,000 a year, for a total of $21 million in savings over a 25-year period, according to CUSD ofﬁcials. That’s roughly 44 percent of the district’s current utility bill. Funds for the project will come from the government’s new Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CREBS) that are available solely for energy projects. Driver told (Cont. on page 5)

Orange County Sheriff’s Department SWAT, Hazardous Devices Section and Crisis Assessment Team all responded on Dec. 18 when a man claimed to have “explosives” in his apartment. Christopher Udin, 42, was arrested in the incident. Photo: Eric Heinz

(Cont. from page 3)

the trustees on Nov. 8 that the goal is for the district’s savings to pay off the debt accrued.

The district’s CREBS budget for the solar contract was $23-24 million.

Members of CUSD Solar Students, a group that has been working for years with district staff on the switch to solar, attended the Dec. 6 meeting to celebrate the next step of the project. The group, which includes students from San Clemente High School’s Blue Oceans Club, originally petitioned the school district in February 2016 to install solar panels at each high school campus.

“I am honored to join my fellow students tonight in a project that has taken three years and is at its culminating point,” said student Kyle Krueger, who serves as president of the Tesoro Conservation club. “I’m honored to see the reality of CUSD solar tonight. Through three years of hard work, meeting with solar energy experts, pitching procurement methods and presenting in this great [board] room, we received powerful support for this reality. You will leave a legacy with this vote for an entire next generation of students, parents, teachers, residents and board members who can beneﬁt from this $21 million (in savings).”

WHAT’S NEXT: Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton told the board that the project will roll out in stages, beginning with installation of solar panels at a few campuses in 2018.

District ofﬁcials said information regarding the CREBS ﬁnancing for the project will be presented at the Jan. 24 board meeting.

FIND OUT MORE: More information on the district’s solar project can be found at www.capousd.org. Additional information can be found on the CUSD Solar Students’ website at www.cusdsolar.org. —Allison Jarrell

Coastal Land Use Plan to be Finalized in February

THE LATEST: The city of San Clemente’s

Local Coastal Land Use Plan (CLUP) was discussed by the California Coastal Commission at its Dec. 14 meeting, and action is expected to be taken on the item at the next meeting.

Commission members were briefed on some of the recommended changes, agreed upon by San Clemente city ofﬁcials, but there were some corresponding letters submitted by members of the public on the proposed changes.

Capistrano Shores Inc. (CSI), the company that runs the mobile home park along the coast near Paciﬁc Coast Highway, continues to ﬁght for the ability to repair and maintain its revetment walls that protect the homes from encroaching sea levels.

A major concern of CSI is establishing itself as an existing location with existing structures. One of the amendments that surfaced from the Coastal Commission would deﬁne existing structures in the area as having been built before 1977 and therefore would leave structures built after that time with fewer protections. Many of the mobile home structures in the CSI subdivision were built after that time, although the subdivision has existed since the 1950s.

Another key concern was the ability for short-term lodging unit (STLU)

owners wanting to protect their ability to continue renting rooms to people in the coastal zone. Opponents of STLUs have maintained using a residence as a lodging facility causes problems for neighbors.

WHAT’S NEXT: The next Coastal Commission meeting is scheduled for Feb. 7-9 in Cambria. To ﬁnd out more about the city’s current CLUP adjustments, visit www.coastal.ca.gov under Meetings and click Monthly Agenda. A link to the changes will be posted with this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. —EH

Police Expect to File Felony Charges against Teen for Dec. 7 Fight

THE LATEST: San Clemente Police Chief Lt. Mike Peters said ofﬁcers plan to ﬁle felony charges against a 16-year-old girl who assaulted another 16-year-old girl on Dec. 7 outside the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area.

Peters said the ﬁght stemmed from the suspect accusing the victim of saying things about her. When the victim denied it, the suspect assaulted her, inﬂicting injuries that required the girl to be hospi-

talized.

“It was not one of those ﬁghts where the victim had a chance, and it appeared that the victim was kicked,” Peters said, adding there were other people in the area during the beating, but the suspect acted alone, based on interviews with the witnesses. “(The suspect) cooperated with authorities on what happened, so we pretty much have the full story.”

Peters said the girl suffered injuries to her kidneys and other lacerations. He said he couldn’t comment further on the extent of the victim’s injuries because the injury report from the hospital where she is being treated had not yet been sent to authorities.

Peters also said local police were unaware of the situation until the girl was taken to the hospital. He said police took an initial report and were expecting to ﬁle misdemeanor changes, but after understanding the extent of the victim’s injuries and post-interview processing, it was determined more severe charges would be ﬁled.

The Orange County District Attorney makes the ﬁnal determination on charges, if any, that are ﬁled in court.

Photos of the victim were posted to a social media site for concerned San Clemente community members. The photos are not being distributed by SC Times due to patient privacy laws and because the victim is a minor. The names of those involved are also not being published because they are both younger than 18 years old.

WHAT’S NEXT: Both girls are students at San Clemente High School (SCHS). Peters said Capistrano Uniﬁed School District will hold a hearing to determine whether the suspect will be expelled from SCHS, as she has had disciplinary infractions in the past. Neither the suspect nor the victim was a volunteer with the Boys & Girls Club, Peters said. —EH

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

• • •

Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

This rendering shows what the solar panels at Capistrano Uniﬁed School District schools would look like.

Photo: Courtesy

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY STAFF

i-5 Freedom Network to Host Second Annual Be A Big Cheese Event

Join the i-5 Freedom Network at The Cellar for the second annual “Be A Big Cheese Event” on Jan. 29 at The Cellar, located at 156 Avenida Del Mar in San Clemente. Tickets are on sale now between $50 and $90. The event will feature wine, cheese and community empowerment to end human trafﬁcking. Highlights will include a keynote speaker, live entertainment, door prizes, wine bottle drawings with retail values of $35-$85 and more. i-5 Freedom Network aims to stop human trafﬁcking in South Orange County.

For more information, visit www.i5freedomnetwork.org.

Street Artists in Residence Coming to House of Trestles in March

Two renowned artists from San Francisco with a passion for the natural world will soon be in San Clemente as the sixth street artists in residence at the House of Trestles.

Mike Kershnar and Fiona Lake arrive in January for a three-month residency that will focus partly on surf culture and daily life at San Onofre State Beach’s world-famous surf breaks. Lake is a photographer and San Francisco native. Kershnar is an established painter, illustrator, photographer and skateboarder who grew up in Orange County and surfed Trestles regularly. He said he’s excited to return to the beach, and he’s stoked to stay so close to the action: House of Trestles is just a short bike ride away.

“I’m really interested in spending a nice stretch of time between Uppers and San O with surfboards and cameras and healthy snacks,” Kershnar said.

Kershnar comes to San Clemente from The Growlery, an artist residency in San Francisco. He and Lake bring with them not only an array of talents but a close, personal connection: they’re engaged to be married and have collaborated on projects around the world, including Paris and Copenhagen. The couple will introduce their work to the public with a show in March, the details of which will be announced soon. House of Trestles is located at 2717 S. El Camino Real in San Clemente.

City Offers Grace Period for City Parking Permits

The city of San Clemente will offer a grace period for holders of San Clemente parking passes that expire Jan. 1, according to a press release from the city. The

grace period is in effect for renewal purposes from Dec. 24 through Jan. 11. City ofﬁces will be closed for the annual furlough between Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 and will reopen on Jan. 2. After the grace period has expired, all residents are expected to have their parking permits renewed.

All metered parking in San Clemente requires a parking decal afﬁxed on the lower right hand (passenger) side of the vehicle’s front windshield. Metered parking permits are available for $50 for San Clemente residents and $100 for non-residents.

To apply for a parking permit, visit City Hall at 100 Avenida Presidio with your vehicle registration showing proof of residency. For more information, call the Finance Division at 949.361.8315.

San Clemente Hotelier Receives Award from State Association

The California Hotel & Lodging Association (CH&LA), which consist of all the hotels, boutique hotels and bed and breakfast inns, honored San Clemente’s Rick Anderson recently with the Star of the Industry Award for Peggy Mosley Industry Champion Award, which honors the memory and accomplishments of California Bed and Breakfast Inns (CABBI) founding member and CH&LA Hall of Fame inductee Peggy Mosley. Anderson was a commissioner on CH&LA under two governors for eight years, the chairman of the association’s board, president of California Bed and Breakfast Inns and more during his career.

OCSD Launches Holiday Enforcement Campaign to Find and Arrest Impaired Drivers

From Dec. 15 through Jan. 1, law enforcement across the state is partnering

with the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in a special year-end “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement mobilization to get impaired drivers off the street and to spread the word about this dangerous crime.

As part of the holiday enforcement campaign, law enforcement agencies will deploy DUI Checkpoints and DUI Saturation Patrols during the upcoming 18-day DUI crackdown.

Driving under the inﬂuence of alcohol can have deadly, devastating consequences. Nationally in 2016, 37,461 people were killed in motor vehicle trafﬁc crashes, and 28 percent (10,497) died in crashes where a driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over the limit of .08. California reported 1,059 DUI deaths at .08 or above.

In recent years, California has seen an increase in drug-impaired driving crashes. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department supports the new effort from the Ofﬁce of Trafﬁc Safety that aims to educate all drivers that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI. Marijuana use can also impair, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI.

Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP, or “DDVIP,” free mobile app for Android or iPhone. The DDVIP app helps ﬁnd nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, from free non-alcoholic drinks to free appetizers and more.

Funding for this DUI operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to report drunk driving and call 911.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com by Monday the week of publication.

Community Meetings

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24

DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET

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

DECEMBER 25-JANUARY 1

CITY OFFICES CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26

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.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27

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.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 2

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.

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.toastmastersclubs.org.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4

NEXT EDITION OF THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

There will not be a Dec. 29 edition of the SC Times. The next edition will be published Thursday, Jan. 4.

Photo: File

One Step Closer

California Coastal Commission Approves Plans for Miramar Event Center

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The Miramar Event Center rehabilitation project took possibly its largest step closer to fruition on Dec. 15 when the California Coastal Commission unanimously approved its application to establish a new theater and restaurant quarters.

The Coastal Commission put in a set of conditions to its vote, requiring the owners of the Miramar, El Camino Real Estate Holdings, LLC, and the city of San Clemente to devise a transportation plan, parking monitoring plans and areas of additional parking resources including bicycle racks. The conditions also include the need for reduction of hazards caused by construction and water runoff.

During the Coastal Commission meeting, the commission’s staff said the applicants had agreed to all of the conditions set forth.

Although the Miramar Event Center has passed all government application approvals, building permits will still need to be issued by the city.

Parking has been at the heart of the

debate of the Miramar project since plans were submitted to the city last year. The city of San Clemente conducted a parking study that stated the North Beach lot and adjacent parking areas were not ﬁlled even during peak usage times, calculated every Thursday.

Former San Clemente Community Development Director Jim Holloway, who advocated for the Miramar project approval, said they conducted their own parking studies during the holidays and it showed similar results.

At a meeting on Oct. 17, City Council granted the Miramar 92 parking waivers regarding the number of spots available for the size of the business. The city has also committed to ﬁnding and establishing additional parking if lots are still not sufﬁcient after the establishment reopens.

The theater is expected to house 435 seats and the bowling alley will house four or ﬁve restaurants and an outdoor bar. Fifty seats will be allocated for the indoor portions of the restaurant and another 150 for an outdoor patio.

Larry Culbertson, of the San Clemente Historical Society, said allowing the project to move forward will ensure the building maintains its historic integrity as well as improve the business atmosphere in North Beach.

Some people who spoke during the Coastal Commission meeting said there are not enough parking spots in the area and that approving the project for food and beverage as well as entertainment would overﬂow the North Beach area. Residents said visitors will crowd the public parking they use on a daily basis.

Other critics said they don’t believe the Miramar will come to fruition because it’s been vacant for a quarter century and has fallen into squalor. The inside of the building is uninhabitable and a mask is needed to enter it.

“They’ve cared nothing about the upkeep, and it became a haven of transients and an unsafe area for skating,” said Linda Sadeghi, owner of Casino San Clemente, which is located across the street from the Miramar.

Marc Spizzirri, one of the primary operators of the LLC that owns the Miramar, said during a phone interview on Dec. 15 that he plans to lease the building to event organizations and restaurants.

“The immediate plan is to put the lease sign up, maybe after holidays or next week, then start collecting interest from potential tenants, then put a layout together that suits the needs of the tenants, then building permits,” Spizzirri said.

Spizzirri purchased the Miramar in 2007, but his clear title of the property was tied up in a lawsuit at the same time the Miramar was put on the market in 2011. Since gaining a clear title, plans were put in place to renovate the dilapidated theater and bowling alley.

“There are people that hung in with us for 10 years, and it’s (caused) a lot of frustrations, but Jim (Holloway) and Wayne (Eggleston) and (then)-Mayor Kathy Ward were helpful,” Spizzirri said. “The community support was wonderful.” SC

The California Coastal Commission approved plans for the Miramar Event Center on Dec. 15. Photo: File

The Toll Road, Sharks, Hurley Pro, Krikorian

Take a look back at the biggest headlines of 2017

BY ERIC HEINZ

There may not have been a consistent theme to 2017 (toll roads). It was a diverse and eclectic year for San Clemente (toll roads). Many milestones were reached (toll roads) and various projects came to fruition.

But it also was not an easy year (toll roads) for San Clementeans, as lasting issues continue to cause controversy. Though there’s still evident divisiveness, the city continues to support one another under the #onetownoneteam mentality.

JANUARY

The San Clemente City Council decided to do away with its ethics policy of 10 years and allow the Orange County District Attorney and other state agencies handle ethics complaints against the city and its elected representatives. The move came after several ethics violations were ﬁled, which city ofﬁcials said hadn’t been done in years.

Hundreds of people joined San Clemente’s version of the Women’s March on Washington on Avenida Del Mar at the city’s library. Some traveled to participate in the demonstration in Santa Ana and met at the Outlets to be chartered by bus.

Longtime owners of Casa Tropicana hotel, Rick and Susan Anderson, decided to sell the location to a new owner.

FEBRUARY

San Clemente native Bennett Jonas and a group of friends saved seven young people from drowning in an icy lake in New York City.

A judge ordered an injunction against the city of San Clemente after it was unable to comply with a decision that it needed to update its housing element to allow for more locations of an emergency or homeless shelter. The injunction spanned most of 2017 and prohibited issuing building permits in certain areas until the city came into compliance with Senate Bill 2, which requires cities to allocate adequate locations for such emergency or homeless shelters.

MARCH

Chad and Bodhi graced the San Clemente City Council with their proposal to erect a large, 12-foot statue of Paul Walker at the end of the Pier. The City Council was unable to honor their request, but an 18-inch miniature statue of Walker now

resides at City Hall. Videos from the meeting posted to the SC Times Facebook page reached more than 1 million people and caught national media attention.

The International Chamber of Commerce awarded San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) operators Southern California Edison $125 million in its lawsuit against Mitsubishi in its claim that steam generators purchased by Edison were faulty and caused the plant to close. Edison initially sought $7.6 billion in the lawsuit.

APRIL

Local band Tunnel Vision performed a live concert at the highest altitude on top of Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise awareness of elephant poaching.

The SC Times visited The Ranch near Lake Elsinore, a location where many homeless and drug users are sent to detox and kick their addictions.

The ﬁrst Market at North Beach opened for business on Wednesdays during the summer.

MAY

Renewed invigoration sprouted throughout the city, as No Toll Road Through San Clemente signs were dispersed on many lawns. The Coalition to Save San Clemente began its campaign against the Transpor-

held its ﬁrst meeting to peruse crime statistics and policies within the city.

AUGUST

The second distillery in Orange County since prohibition, Drift Distillery, opened in San Clemente.

Southern California Edison and Citizens’ Oversight Projects settled a lawsuit regarding the storages of spent nuclear fuel at SONGS that requires the power plant operators to develop a stronger management plan and actively seek other locations to store the fuel.

SEPTEMBER

After a successful summer, the San Clemente Trolley program was extended through Oct. 1. The trolley needed 10 riders per hour to receive funding for next year’s program, but ended up with an average ridership of 45 per hour—a total of 90,000 riders from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends.

Hundreds attend the Not My Toll Road concert at the Reserve Clubhouse and Park, including then-Mayor Kathy Ward and community members.

OCTOBER

Pier Pride celebrated its second Light up the Pier event and raised more than $250,000 for maintenance and rehabilitation of the iconic structure.

The parking lot of St. Andrew’s by-theSea appeared to show signs of land sliding away from the church’s main structure. Reports by Caltrans and other geotechnical ﬁrms are expected to be published on the site in the near future.

tation Corridor Agencies (TCA) proposals for a toll road through the city.

After an attack on a woman at San Onofre State Beach, great white sharks started populating the coastal water from the southern beaches to Doheny State Beach. The sharks caused more beach closures than some lifeguards had seen in 15 years.

JUNE

FBI agents raided the behavioral health treatment provider Sovereign Health for reasons not yet disclosed by authorities. The FBI also raided Vedanta Laboratories and the home of Tonmoy Sharma, CEO of Sovereign Health. Sharma later said in a statement that the FBI had unfairly accused the business. Sovereign ﬁled a lawsuit in August that blamed an insurance provider for the FBI raid.

A human skull was found along the trails of eastern San Clemente. The human of the skull has not yet been identiﬁed.

JULY

A wildland fire burned 760 acres on Camp Pendleton and southern San Clemente, which firefighters were able to stop before it threatened many structures. The San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter prepared to evacuate if needed. The fire was 95 percent contained by July 1. San Clemente’s Public Safety Task Force

NOVEMBER

The Krikorian San Clemente Cinema 6 announced it closed on Nov. 2. The theater had operated in town for about 20 years.

Lifetime Fitness plans to increase the size of its San Clemente clubhouse to 40,000-square-feet as well as renovate facilities were approved by the Planning Commission. The business is expected to open in late 2018.

World Surf League announced that the Hurley Pro and Swatch Pro held annually at Lower Trestles would not be a part of the 2018 Championship Tour.

The city of San Clemente initiated a study of rising sea levels in the immediate area, and the results will be added to its Coastal Land Use Plan.

DECEMBER

Tim Brown was selected as the next mayor of San Clemente.

San Clemente local Rian Johnson, the writer-director of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, who spoke with the SC Times in November, saw his latest creation garner a booming $220 million in box-ofﬁce ticket sales in its ﬁrst weekend.

Editor’s note: Links to the stories of the subjects in bold can be found in this article online at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Sharks were seen throughout the shores of San Clemente from May through the end of October. Photo: Courtesy of Matt Larmand

The city’s and residents’ ﬁght against a toll road through San Clemente reignited in 2017. Photo: Eric Heinz

Chad and Bodhi gave the San Clemente City Council a surprise when they proposed putting a large statue of Paul Walker at the end of the Pier. Photo: Eric Heinz

EYE ON SC

Best of the Blotter 2017

Detailed record of emergency calls gone, but not forgotten

COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the ﬁeld by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or afﬁliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

January

DISTURBANCE

Calle Amistad, 100 Block (7:43 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 7) A woman said a man dressed in a gorilla suit was constantly ringing her doorbell. When she answered the door, the man growled at her.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES

Avenida Vaquero/Camino Capistrano (11:03 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 29) Police were called to a report of a man in his late 20s wearing ﬂannel pajama bottoms and carrying a 6-foot-tall tree. When the caller asked him what he was doing with the tree, the man replied, “I am carrying it to the apocalypse.” The caller said the man was also very aggressive toward him.

February

PETTY THEFT

El Camino Real, 400 Block (2:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 9) Someone known to the area stole a pair of underwear.

March

DISTURBANCE

El Camino Real, 700 Block (2:06 a.m., Saturday, March 4) A man kicked the caller’s ATM and then started smoking inside the restaurant.

CITIZEN ASSIST

Camino de Estrella, 500 Block (11:42 a.m., Monday, March 20) A woman said someone was hacking into her cell phone. Dispatchers thought she sounded as though she was on drugs, but she said she doesn’t do drugs. Dispatchers said she sounded “very erratic,” talking about not having children and that there was a “man inside her phone.”

April

BURGLARY ALARM-AUDIBLE

Calle Frontera, 2600 Block (12:10 a.m., Monday, April 17) A man said a church’s burglary alarm has been going off for hours and that this happens every night. Dispatchers told the man police ofﬁcers cannot cut the wires to the alarm, and they suggested he call the church when it is open, but he refused.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE

Calle Campanero, 800 Block (6 p.m., Thursday, April 27) A man said a suspicious man had been walking through his neighborhood for a few days asking women to marry him.

May

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY

Escalones, 100 Block (7:58 p.m., Saturday, May 27) A loud mariachi band was performing on W. Canada, but no singers were heard, the caller said.

CITIZEN ASSIST

Ola Vista, 2300 Block (1:03 a.m., Sunday, May 28) A woman who was driving for Uber said the wrong customer got into her car and was very drunk. The woman who entered the car told the driver she didn’t know her address and the driver didn’t know what to do with her.

June

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES

Calle Agua/Camino de los Mares (7:32 p.m., Saturday, June 3) By the Ocean Hills condominiums, police were called to a report of a suspicious man who the caller said was following them. The suspicious man then harassed residents at the clubhouse. The caller heard him yell out, “I am the police.”

Editor’s Note

On June 12, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department stopped including detailed summaries for each of its sheriff’s blotter entries. Residents can still access the sheriff’s blotter at OCSD’s website, but can only view the type of calls the department is responding to, as well as the date, time and location of each call.

In lieu of the detailed blotter entries, OCSD ofﬁcials announced in June that a transition to an interactive crime map was in the works. OCSD said the new software, called Crime Mapping, would provide residents with the same information the current blotter does—type of call, date, time and approximate location—but would not include details like before. That software has yet to be implemented.

Members of the public who are seeking detailed information about speciﬁc blotter entries are now required to submit email requests to OCSD’s records department at prarequests@ocsd.org.

SOAPBOX SC

SanClemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US

CITY EDITOR

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 Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com

BUSINESS MANAGER

Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA

PUBLISHER

Norb Garrett

EDITORIAL

Group Managing Editor

> Rachael Mattice

City Editor, SC Times

> Eric Heinz

City Editor, DP Times

> Daniel Ritz

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch

> Allison Jarrell

Sports Editor

> Steve Breazeale

Special Projects Editor

> Andrea PapagianisCamacho

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Associate Publisher

> Lauralyn Loynes

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Real Estate Sales Manager

> Michele Reddick

ART/DESIGN

Art Director

> Jasmine Smith

Graphic Designer

> Chelsie Rex

OPERATIONS

Finance Director

> Mike Reed

Business Manager

> Alyssa Garrett

Accounting & Distribution Manager

> Tricia Zines

SPECIAL THANKS

Robert Miller

CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Bianco

Victor Carno

Tim Trent

Jake Howard

San Clemente Times Vol. 12, Issue 51. 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.

GUEST

OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim

Kempton

As Tiny Tim Says, ‘God Bless Us, Everyone’

When my wife and I were ﬁrst married and had just bought our dream house (a 1,100-squarefoot Ole Hanson cottage in southwest San Clemente near T-Street), I went out for an early morning walk with the dog. We had no children yet and the invited parents, relatives, in-laws and friends were hours away from arriving for the big afternoon Christmas dinner my wife and I both loved to put on.

On the corner of Trafalgar and Ola Vista, on a clear, crisp, Southern California Dec. 25, I experienced an epiphany: there, just outside his home, a little towheaded boy, maybe 4 or 5 years old, had received a puppy for Christmas. The look of pure unadulterated joy on his face was a marvel to behold. His eyes were lit, arms ﬂailing, feet pattering and voice gurgling in unbounded excitement of the discovery. I stood unnoticed, a silent un-intruding observer. “Wow,” I thought, “That is how I want to remember Christmas morning.” It was the ﬁrst inkling of what was to come down the path of life for me: children, challenge, wonder.

In the meantime I would learn many important things about Christmas—that not all people stop Christmas shopping just because they run out of money, that it was important to get gifts into the mail early so the post ofﬁce could still lose them in time for the holidays. That the living proof

Letters to the Editor

THANK YOU, COMMUNITY PROBLEM SOLVERS

VONNE BARNES, Rancho San Clemente Community Association Board President

Rancho San Clemente wishes to thank the Community Problem Solvers Club (CPSC) from San Clemente High School for taking the initiative to Save Open Space and improve safety along the Ridge Route Trail (RRT).

At the Dec. 6 City Council meeting, CPSC’s co-presidents Sophia Mains and Chloe Kamp and CPSC members Ishaan Mody and Nick Petrocelli addressed the Council, identifying safety problems and solutions showing photographs and design plans for signage and trail fencing along the trail.

To prevent a recurrence of the devastating Knob Hill ﬁre that destroyed 7 acres of open space in the Fire Zone over Thanksgiving weekend on Nov. 25, CPSC asked the Council for signage and 120 feet of trail

of women’s superiority could be found in watching men attempting to wrap presents. Everybody knows fruitcakes are universally despised and yet we keep sending them as gifts—sometimes the same ones we got. Finding a parking space in a crowded mall the week before Christmas was best done by following a lady down a parking aisle (like three wise men following the star) in hopes she may lead you to an open parking space near the manger.

no matter what the result than to decorate it perfectly without them. That the cost of a gift had no bearing on the enjoyment; the imagination was far more joyful than the physical entity. Christmas morning has always been the best moments of the year in our house.

We would move several times from our ﬁrst little house, adding bedrooms like children or vice versa. As our brood grew we would discover other important truths: Presents will likely be broken within the ﬁrst hour of opening them in direct proportion to sticker price and no-return policy. No matter how carefully you wrap and pack the white blinker lights, they will not work for the following holiday season. Batteries are never included in presents that require ones you don’t have in the house.

And the children would teach us some simple truths too: Keeping the myth of Santa Claus is not nearly as important as sharing the spirit of St. Nicholas. It is far better to decorate the tree with the kids

fencing around the north end of the Ridge Route Trail at Knob Hill.

The Community Problem Solvers have also identiﬁed 10 sites along the Ridge Route Trail needing signage, including a sharp, blind curve along the steep trail segment above Harbor View Estates. Sophia Mains informed the Council that the $12,600 annual provision in the 1995 Easement Agreement would pay for the trail improvements, and Mayor Tim Brown invited CPSC to a meeting to review plan details.

RSCCA sincerely appreciates CPSC’s exemplary leadership to provide safety, ﬁre prevention and preservation of open space along the Ridge Route Trail.

MIRAMAR OR MIRA-MESS?

LINDA SADEGHI, San Clemente

Last Friday morning, the California Coastal Commission approved the Miramar development project. Maybe our ﬁrst reaction is “Hooray! We have saved the Miramar!” But have we actually? Or have we been hoodwinked into entitling an overbuilt private project out of desperation?

The Miramar is in horriﬁc condition,

Our kids are grown-up now, and though they still love Christmas more than any other day of the year, the scene is all a little less rambunctious than it once was.

But the message of the Prince of Peace—that love and charity, humility and sharing, generosity and kindness is what saves us—is still the real reason we give gifts and celebrate the day. And to ﬁnd that joyous moment when we see the world as a little child does. So this year I have decided to get up just a little bit early and take the dog for a long walk. There are a lot of kids who live in our neighborhood. You never know; I might just be lucky enough to ﬁnd that magic morning one more time.

Jim Kempton is a former President of the San Clemente Historical Society. He hopes you will support so that our old buildings can grow older with dignity. 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

neglected for years with broken glass, exposed wires, open holes, skaters breaking off stucco, a magnet for local transients, trash-laden and with almost permanent stains of public urination. Have we forgotten that the same developers we are now applauding for “saving” the landmark are the same ones that have kept the property in this sad and neglected condition for the last decade, flagrantly ignoring code enforcement pleas? Did we realize that former public officials have helped entitle the private property for a quick flip? Or that the city spent $20,000 of grant money for this private development group? Have we analyzed the proposal’s addition of 50 percent square footage encroaching on this historic footprint or are we really okay with zero percent landscaping and 9-foot perimeter walls to alter our historic district of lush lawns? There is no sidewalk on the south side of the project –are we okay walking our kids on the north side against oncoming El Camino Real traffic with no landscape buffer? Perhaps we fell into a well-built trap—that of the owners doing absolutely nothing, not (Cont. on page 16)

WAVELENGTHS By Jim Kempton

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Dec. 22 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso

This week’s guest will be Wayne Eggleston, who has been a consultant for the Miramar Event Center and will speak about the next steps of the project. There will be no Beachside Chat on Friday, Dec. 29. 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.

(Cont. from page 15) even the most basic of maintenance, for a full decade, in order that we welcome any solution whatsoever, even if it means solid concrete, overbuilding and historic desecration. Fort Knox at the historic entrance to our “Spanish Village by the Sea.” By the way, the developer was a noshow at the Coastal Commission hearing.

ADVERTISING ON SCHOOL FENCES

CHERYL ROBITAILLE, San Clemente

The advertising signs on the fence of San Clemente High are an eyesore. No other school district properties have allowed this form of solicitation. When are they going to be removed?

Keeping San Clemente attractive is important for prospective new homebuyers. Looking forward to the day when I don’t have to see all those faces on the fence.

LOCAL

BUSINESS

HELPS PEOPLE AFFECTED BY FIRES

HEATHER GRUMMER, San Clemente

To my neighbors in San Clemente, I wish to share news of our beloved town. One of our own committed a very generous and selﬂess act on a Monday night in order to help those who have suffered in the ﬁres in California that destroyed so many. I want to recognize Coastal Postal for their most gracious act for getting some much-needed items to the people in Ventura County. Our family wanted to donate

some toys and clothing for those in need, but was unsure how to get those items to those people. Coastal Postal came through and sent those packages on their way. I walked out unable to express my gratitude as their service was way beyond words. So in writing this, I have composed myself and want to say thank you to the people who not only made it a little better for those who have lost so much, but have given me a gift I will always remember. Coastal Postal has shown me that it’s not just a package being delivered, but an expression of love from one human being to another.

WE NEED SUPPORT IN CONGRESS FOR INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTALLY DISABLED PEOPLE

JORDAN LINDSEY, Executive Director of The Arc of California

As Californians, we cannot ignore the signiﬁcant threats that Congress’ tax plan poses to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Right now, Congress is fast tracking legislation that reduces federal revenues. This legislation is likely to be funded through cuts to vital programs. Drastic changes to a variety of programs that people with I/DD rely on to function are on the table. Medicaid, the medical expense tax deduction, construction of affordable housing, and access to affordable health care are all at risk.

Rep. Darrell Issa, R-49, can stop this by opposing the current tax plan. A vote against a bill like this is a vote for Mr. Issa’s constituents with disabilities. A no vote is a vote in support of our friends and neighbors with I/DD. Irresponsible ﬁscal policy disproportionately harms people with disabilities. We cannot sit idly by as our leaders in Washington consider passage of such a destructive bill.

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.

Advertisements on the fences at San Clemente High School help pay for efforts of the San Clemente Educational Foundation, but some people ﬁnd them to be an “eyesore.” Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente Educational Foundation

New Year, New Travel Plans

Become a tourist at home, and abroad

BY ANN RONAN

With the New Year coming up, what new travel experiences do you crave? Local gems you’ve missed, family vacations not too far from home, or an adventure to an exotic destination you’ve never visited? The best trips are transformational experiences— you come back from them informed and changed.

Right in your backyard

Put on fresh eyes and be a tourist right in your own town. Take a walking tour and be surprised at the juicy bits of information you’ll pick up. Did you know there once was a jail in the basement of the El Adobe Restaurant in San Juan Capistrano? Take an Architectural Walking Tour any Saturday or a Historical Walking Tour on Sunday from the train station and be entertained by stories about the colorful characters who made San Juan Capistrano such a quirky town. Wander a bit further by creating a train adventure to San Diego—it’s a walkable city and there’s plenty of ride share options for tired feet. Hop on the Old Town Trolley to get an overview of the city while experiencing “transportainment,” a fun combination of transportation and entertainment. The New Children’s Museum in downtown connects kids to the arts and creativity. It’s ﬁlled with bubbles, blocks, clay, paints and interactive games that tempt kids to indulge their imagination.

Grownups (21+) can eat and drink their way through downtown San Diego with a “Bite Tour.” The tour starts in the historic Gaslamp Quarter and is sprinkled with local gossip about celebrities and politicians who lived here. Pizza, gourmet Indian, handmade desserts and a rooftop view will delight all of your senses.

Experience a new culture

Winter is the best time to visit Thailand with great weather, affordable, yet luxurious, accommodations and airfare under $1,000 from LAX. All this has made Thailand the number one international destination for the

second year in a row.

Good natured, friendly people give Thailand the nickname “Land of Smiles.” You’ll immediately ﬁnd yourself relaxing and smiling along with them.

Pristine white beaches beckon you to dive in and snorkel or, for the more adventurous, Thailand has some of the most beautiful rock climbing routes. When you are ready to reluctantly climb out of the turquoise sea, ﬁll up on the endless options of mouth-watering cuisine, including beautifully blended spices in curries, noodles and stir-fried meats.

Your trip will be ﬁlled with mind opening experiences of an exotic culture centered on Buddhism with magniﬁcent temples and palaces, a long history and fascinating archaeological sites. You’ll come home with a new appreciation for cultures far different than ours.

Ann Ronan is a San Juan Capistrano travel consultant with a passion for making memorable travel simple. She offers her clients a unique combination of specialized knowledge, ﬁrsthand experience and strong personal contacts in the travel industry. She can be reached at ann@sjctravel.com or at 949.702.3977. Visit her website at www.sjctravel.com.

Find out more

San Juan Capistrano Architectural Walk-

ing tours: Saturday from 10:00-11:30 a.m. weekly. Donation $5. Group tours available by appointment at 949.489.0736.

San Juan Capistrano Historical Society

Walking tours: Sunday from 10:00-11:30 a.m. weekly. Donation $2. Group tours available by appointment. 949.483.8444.

The New Children’s Museum: 200 West Island Ave, San Diego. Monday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday noon-4:00 p.m. Cost is $13 per person.

Bite Downtown San Diego Tour: Saturday and Sunday at noon. Lasts three hours over a two-mile route with visits to ﬁve or more restaurants. $47 per person. www.bitesandiego.com

Thailand: Travel agents can quickly put together the best priced packages for you and suggest activities depending on your interests. Visit www.tourismthailand.org.

Time to Wine Down

Local wineries bring a taste of wine country to OC

BY VICTOR CARNO

Orange County is not the ﬁrst place that comes to mind when thinking of wineries and vineyards, but rest assured, a trip to Paso Robles or Temecula isn’t necessary to experience an aerated, full bodied wine with an oaky ﬁnish and heady legs. For those who don’t speak wine, that just means “good wine.” Cut the travel time and highfalutin terminology with wineries right here in our backyard.

Take a tour through these highly rated Orange County wineries as you venture up the coast this winter, or at any other time of the year.

Rancho Capistrano Winery

26755 Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.6682, www.ranchocapistranowinery.com.

With a record of 10 “Best of San Juan Capistrano” People’s Choice Horseshoe Awards wins, Rancho Capistrano Winery in San Juan Capistrano is an ideal place to start your wine tour through Orange County. Head winemaker Kylie Huffman and Chef Adrian de La Torre combine to make a powerful one-two punch of both great wine and great food.

“We originally intended to have some food just to keep it weird, but our food menu kept growing and growing by popular demand,” Owner Kyle Franson said. “I’m partial to our trufﬂe mushroom ﬂatbread, paired with a smoky Tempranillo.”

Stop by any day of the week for a $15 wine tasting that includes a flight of five wines. With over 50 different wine selections and growing, it won’t be hard to find a wine suitable for any palate.

Laguna Canyon Winery

2133 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.715.9463, www.lagunacanyonwinerey.com.

Brothers Marlowe and Darren Huber brought 20 years of winemaking experience from British Columbia to Laguna Beach in 2003. Since they opened the winery in Laguna Beach 15 years ago, they

have continued to provide award-winning, artisan wine to Orange County locals and tourists alike. With ﬁve award-winning wines from the 2017 Orange County Fair Commercial Wine Competition, the Huber brothers offer a wine tasting experience that rivals any.

Fan favorites include their savory Sonoma Valley syrah and “Purple Paws,” a fruit-forward red blend that donates a portion of proceeds to a homeless animal shelter. Wine tastings are $2 per taste and are offered every day of the week except Mondays.

Orange Coast Winery

869 W. 16th Street, Newport Beach, 949.645.0400, www.orangecoastwinery.com.

As you make your way up the coast, you would be remiss to pass over Orange Coast Winery. With a graduate degree in food science, co-owner Doug Wiens knows exactly what goes into a superior wine.

“Superior wine starts with excellent vineyard management,” Wiens said when discussing his approach to providing his customers with wine connoisseur-grade vino.

Debbie Wiens, co-owner of Orange Coast Winery and wife to Doug, brings the ambiance and personality to the business. Together, they produce over 16 different wine selections ranging from dark cabernet sauvignons to tropical viogniers.

As the holiday season is upon us and winter approaches, Wine Club Administrator Courtney Marton recommends their Endless Summer Big Wave ($59 a bottle) red blend to accompany any holiday meal.

“The Big Wave is a blend of cabernet franc, merlot and cabernet sauvignon and really pairs well with any hearty meat and potatoes meal.”

Orange Coast Winery offers tastings for $20 and includes six wines. A variety of whites, reds and sparkling wines are available to try too.

Rancho Capistrano Winery head winemaker Kylie Huffman (right) and Chef Adrian de La Torre (left) combine to make a powerful one-two punch of both great wine and great food. Photo: Victor Carno

SOUTH COUNTY DINING

Soup’s On!

Try warming up with these three soups

BY ALLISON JARRELL

It’s no secret that Southern California doesn’t suffer from unbearably cold winters. But even the most warm-blooded of West Coasters can ﬁnd themselves a bit chilly when the temperature dips below 50 degrees at night.

For those cool winter evenings, why not warm up with some soup? Below are three offerings from South Orange County restaurants that feature a fresh take on classic recipes.

Sundried Tomato SOUP

Sundried Tomato American Bistros & Catering, 31781 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 821 Via Suerte, San Clemente, 949.661.1167, www.sundriedtomatobistro.com.

When Sundried Tomato restauranteur Rob Quest ﬁrst opened what began as a catering company, he debuted a sundried tomato marinade with some of his dishes. Eventually, the popular marinade was tested as a soup and was such a big hit, that it inspired Quest to open a restaurant of the same name.

“The tomato soup has been embedded in the history of the restaurant since 1993,” said general manager Saul Cruz. “It’s kind of our trademark.”

Cruz said the marinade base of the soup needs 24 hours before being mixed in with an array of herbs, olive oil, garlic and balsamic vinegar. The marinade is then blended with a few other ingredients to create the creamy soup that local patrons know and love.

Sundried Tomato serves its namesake soup in cups or bowls, as part of a “half and half” meal accompanied by a salad or sandwich, and even as a sauce in some of their pasta dishes.

BEEF Pho

Pho Thanh Binh, 107 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente,949.369.3879.

Paul Bui, owner and chef of Vietnamese restaurant Pho Thanh Binh, is a ﬁrm believer in understanding and appreciating the history and culture behind the food we eat.

Bui is passionate about sharing the history of traditional pho—a Vietnamese noodle soup—and explaining the differ-

ences between regional recipes and how the quality of the ingredients makes or breaks authentic, delicious soup.

“Traditional pho is made with beef or chicken,” Bui explained. “But I came here, and lots of clients wanted seafood and vegetable pho.”

Bui accommodated the new requests, while also staying true to his roots over the last few years. The type of pho he serves is from North Vietnam and usually consists of beef or chicken, rice noodles, some onion and cilantro, and beef broth. He also serves his generously-sized bowls of pho with toppings one would commonly ﬁnd in South Vietnam—bean sprouts, basil, lime and jalapeños.

A bowl of Bui’s seemingly-bottomless pho is more than enough to satisfy even the most intense of hungers. But if you have room left, ﬁnish the experience with a sweet Vietnamese iced coffee.

Kabocha Pumpkin Soup

The Little Kitchen Asian Café, 24831 Del Prado Avenue, Dana Point, 949.276.7799, www.thelittlekitchenasiancafe.com

For over six years, The Little Kitchen Asian Café in Dana Point has been changing its patrons’ perceptions of what a Chinese restaurant can and can’t serve— one bowl of pumpkin soup at a time.

“Initially, we weren’t too conﬁdent, because typically you don’t ﬁnd pumpkin soup in a Chinese restaurant,” Lian said. “But we wanted to bring something different to the table.”

The Kabocha Pumpkin Soup has been on the restaurant’s menu since day one, and the risk deﬁnitely paid off. Restaurant operations manager Chris Lian said the simplistic recipe has become a favorite among regulars, which is meticulously made every morning.

The signature pumpkin soup features California-grown Japanese pumpkins, some cream, a little butter and a dash of sugar. Even though the recipe is fairly simple, creating the soup is anything but. Lian said prepping the pumpkins takes quite a bit of time—from removing the outer skin and scraping out the insides, to steaming the ﬁrm pumpkins for a couple hours until they’re soft enough to blend.

The tedious process is the reason why the soup is only offered after 4 p.m.

The Little Kitchen also offers traditional Chinese soups—wonton soup, egg drop soup and a hot and sour soup.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, in California?

Escape to these nearby hubs for a winter wonderland experience

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

Tis the season for savory feasts, family gatherings and reflecting on goals. Winter in Southern California is moderate and can often still equate to bathing suit weather, even with the strongest of prayers from four-season lovers. For those cursing the sun, sporting heavy-duty sweaters and sipping hot tea while dreaming of white flurries falling from the sky, there are several winter wonderland destinations to visit while staying within state lines. These cozy mountain towns offer romantic getaways, kid-friendly activities and adventurous outings for a Jack Frost-filled winter of fun.

Southern California

Idyllwild, Wrightwood, Lake Arrowhead

Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours by car

Length of Stay: Weekend

Southern California is home to a few snow-ﬁlled stops that are convenient for a weekend getaway. Idyllwild, a quaint community nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, is home to sweet cedars and a population of under 4,000. Locallyowned shops and restaurants ﬁll the streets, making it the perfect stop for a hot cup of cocoa, building a snowman or taking photos of the scenery.

For those looking to downhill ski or snowboard, mountain communities like Wrightwood are preferred. Located only 15 miles off of Interstate 15 in the San Gabriel Mountains, visitors enjoy common activities such as camping, ﬁshing, hiking and skiing. Wrightwood is home to access points such as Mt. Baden Powell, the Paciﬁc Crest National Scenic Trail and Angeles National Forest, the latter offering plentiful opportunities for sledding and other snow play.

Lake Arrowhead is the largest unincorporated community of the three Southern California “hot spots” within the San Bernardino Mountains and offers several resort hotel accommodations for rest and relaxation. Rent a cabin from the trendy Saddleback Inn and Grill and enjoy rustic décor and a warm ﬁreplace after a day of exploring.

Central &Northern California

Mammoth Lakes, Lake Tahoe, McCloud

Travel Time: 5.5, 8.5, 10.5 hours, respectively, by car

Length of Stay: Three or four days

The majestic Mammoth Lakes is a popular year-round hub, but ﬁlls up quickly for the winter months. Crosscountry skiing, snowboarding, snow biking, snowcat tours, snowmobiling and ice climbing are in abundance in this winter playground.

Northeast of San Francisco lies Lake Tahoe and surrounding Truckee and Squaw Valley villages. Conditions are ideal for skiing and swooshing through white powder while laid-back travelers might ﬁnd comfort in the nearby casinos or with horse-drawn sleigh rides in South Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is also home to many artists and rejuvenation stations like Fifth Element Healing Center and Atelier for those looking to attend regular gallery showings or a wellness retreat.

McCloud is a small town accessible through the Mt. Shasta Cascade region of California, connecting visitors to nearby McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Much like many of the other winter destinations, this Northern California secret includes breathtaking views for snowboarding, skiing and even dog sledding, but offers a lot of reasonable prices and packages.

LAKE TAHOE

When the Weather Outside is Frightful

Stay inside, learn and explore OC museums

BY VICTOR CARNO

While it is a blessing to have surf and sun here in South Orange County yearround, there are days where the temperature drops below 72 degrees and the cardigan makes its annual debut. On such a day, a museum is a fun and educational way to spend a cold, rainy day. Not all museums are endless hallways of avantgarde pieces you have to pretend to understand; there are plenty of museums in the area where you can learn about aerospace engineering or our rich history in surﬁng and Native American artifacts. Here are a few must-see museums in the tri-city area and in the greater Orange County area to explore this winter.

• Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center

31806 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.751.7258, www.sanjuancapistrano.net

A work of art in and of itself, the Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum and Acjachemen Cultural Center is one of the last plaza adobes to house soldiers and local Native Americans who worked at the Mission San Juan Capistrano in the 18th century. Originally described as the “House of Hope,” the Blas Aguilar Adobe features a native plants garden along with artifacts that portray the interactions between European settlers and the village of Acjachema in the 1760s. After years of closure and renovations, the museum was reopened in 2017. Visit Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.

• Crevier Classic Cars

365 Clinton St, Costa Mesa, 714.426.0238, www.crevierclassiccars.com.

Unlike most museums, Crevier Classic Cars is not a curated compilation of exhibits, but rather an active community of gearheads. The space acts as a storage facility for classic, ultra-rare and exotic cars. Almost every vehicle is privatelyowned by a member or is on sale.

“We are really a club. We have a pool table, a bar and members store their cars here,” General Manger Jeff Vitz said.

Besides being an active community, Crevier offers car enthusiasts a trip down automotive history lane, offering the public a place to host events amongst the engineering marvels. Visit any day of the week; admission is free.

• Discovery Cube Orange County

2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.

The Discovery Cube Orange County has been making science fun for over 35 years with hands-on science exhibits for children of all ages. The museum has over seven interactive exhibits including the shake-shack and the hurricane tube always on display for guests, but new exhibits are continually rolled out. Right now, guests can enjoy a new exhibit featuring a virtual helicopter tour over the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

The Discovery Cube is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and tickets are $17.95 for adults or $12.95 for children.

Surfing Heritage and Culture Center

110 Calle Iglesia, San Clemente, 949.388.0313, www.surﬁngheritage.org.

The Surfing Heritage and Culture Center (SHACC) is a nonprofit organization with three simple goals—to preserve, present and promote the sport of surfing. Home to four original Duke Kahanamoku boards, SHACC prides itself on preserving even the earliest surf artifacts and photographs. “We have everything from bins of surfing video games, to wet suits, to the complete The Endless Summer collection, including its artwork, posters and film cameras,” said Barry Haun, curator for SHACC. “We even have boards that belonged to Kelly Slater and Andy Irons.” If photography piques your interest, SHACC has over 100,000 images displayed throughout the museum. SHACC is closed on Sundays, and admission is free, but a $5 donation is suggested.

Heating Up

Sweat your way to total body wellness this winter with these exercises

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

The changing of the seasons and shorter days of winter often draw people inward, hiding from outside activities, problems, emotions and regular behaviors. People choose to stay in and watch movies rather than meet friends, or choose to indulge in comfort food rather than embrace the colder temperatures as an opportunity to head to the gym. Adding warmth back into routines during the dark months can make a dramatic impact on mood and energy. Exercise that cultivate heat such as yoga, cycling and high intensity interval training (HIIT) are a few examples that can invigorate oneself out of hibernation and back to wholeness, whether that be physically, mentally or emotionally.

Hot Yoga

Where to try it: Orange County Yoga Studio, Bikram Yoga San Clemente www.ocyogastudio.com, www.bikramsc.com

The well-known Bikram Choudhuryfounded yoga practice traditionally follows a sequence of 26 poses and breath work in a heated room. A mixture of strengthening and stretching speciﬁc muscles, ligaments and joints, the deep cleansing, total body exercise leaves the practitioner soaked in sweat by the end of the class.

The extensive heat in traditional Bikram or hot yoga classes—which can be tried out at Bikram Yoga San Clemente—may not be suitable for everyone, which is why some yoga businesses such as Orange County Yoga Studio focus on different disciplines that cultivate heat from within.

“Our ﬂow and ashtanga classes—both focus on linking breath and movement—are energizing,” said John Manacmul, co-owner and instructor at Orange County Yoga Studio and former instructor at San Clemente’s Asana FIT studio. “Many yoga postures are effort-driven and physically demanding, including standing poses, inversions and backbends. Our teachers carefully sequence to warm up their students and prepare their bodies for more advanced postures. Even in our align class offerings— which emphasize the precision of asana alignment and use of props—students will

find themselves building a lot of internal heat by working and refining specific actions associated with a variety of poses.”

Cycling/Spin

Where to try it: CB CycleBarn, CTL Cycling Studio www.cbcyclebarn.com, www.ctlcyclingstudio.com

Cycling classes offer the ultimate cardio therapy, yielding massive heat-produced sweat puddles. Fast-paced and typically accompanied by music dripping in heavy bass, an hour-long cycling class can burn hundreds of calories, leaving the exerciser steaming and in need of an extra pair of clothes just to drive home.

High Intensity Interval Training

Where to try it: PedalBox Gym, Total Training www.pedalboxgym.com, www.totaltrainingﬁt.com

For those who find themselves restless from a routine-based program, high intensity interval training (HIIT) is the metaphorical box of chocolates—a variety of strength, cardio and circuit training that changes themes every day. This high calorie-burning technique alternates between intense bursts of activity and fixed periods of less-intense activity that are guaranteed to leave muscles on fire.

Photo: Meera Michelle Photography

GETTING OUT SC

SanClemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO

Thursday | 21

GARDEN ANGELS

8:30-10:30 a.m. Join volunteers, students and teachers at Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to care for and maintain native plants and butterﬂies. No experience is necessary (they’ll teach you), but you should bring gloves and clippers. No class if it rains. Admission is free. Los Rios Park. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS

10 a.m.-1 p.m. All seniors 55 or older are welcomed to join the Table Tennis Club at the Shorecliff Terrace Mobile Home Park. Any skill level is welcomed and entry is free. 3000 Calle Nuevo, San Clemente. 949.481.2275. jnl5555@yahoo.com.

Friday | 22

HENNESSEY’S AWESOME UGLY SWEATER CHRISTMAS PARTY

7 p.m.-2 a.m. Break out those ugly Christmas sweaters for a day of holiday themed food and libations at Hennessey’s Tavern. Mistletoe martinis and hot apple pie will be made available throughout the day. A $25 gift certiﬁcate will be given to the person with the ugliest Christmas sweater. Admission is free. 31761 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.441.4777. www.hennessystavern.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE VINTAGE STEAKHOUSE

6-9 p.m. Local musician, Mike De Bellis, plays smooth jazz to enhance your dining experience every Friday and Saturday. Enjoy a twist on a classic American steakhouse while dining in a fully restored Pullman train car. The Vintage Steakhouse. 26701-B Verdugo Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.661.3400. www.thevintagesteakhouse.com.

Saturday | 23

TALEGA RUN CLUB

7:30 a.m. Whether you are about to tackle your ﬁrst 5K or you are just keeping your cardio and running prowess in top form, be sure to stop by Peet’s Coffee in Talega. Every Saturday a group runners of varying skill level take a brisk three-mile run around a pre-determined course. Admis-

EDITOR’S PICK

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31: IVA LEE’S NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION

5 p.m.-1 a.m. Iva Lee’s in San Clemente will host its annual New Year’s Eve celebration with live music and a DJ to ring in 2018. La Jones Quartet will perform 6:30-10 p.m., DJ Fernando will perform from 10:30 p.m.-1 a.m. A three-course preﬁx dinner will be served. Tickets are $45 for ﬁrst seating, $55 for second seating and $65 for lounge seating. To make reservations, call 949.361.2855. Iva Lee’s, 550 N. El Camino Real. www.ivalees.com.

ON THE MENU

HAM AND CHEESE WITH FRIED

BY ERIN MCFAUL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Aday at Doheny State Beach is not complete without a trip to A’s Burgers for a hearty meal at a great price. With its bright red and yellow sign popping out at visitors as they drive down Coast Highway, it’s hard to miss the restaurant just one mile away from the Dana Point Harbor.

With a San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point location, A’s Burgers has been a popular burger joint for locals since Angelo Vardakostas opened it in the early 1970s. Piled high with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, mayonnaise and cheese, the freshly made burgers seem to be a hit for visitors having spent a long day in the sun.

For customers looking to stray away from the typical order, the ham and cheese sandwich is a warm and gooey alternative. Served on golden brown sourdough bread and oozing with cheese, the sandwich

sion is free. 801 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. 949.588.5054. www.facebook. com/2XUSanClemente.

GARDEN OF LIGHTS: SAN DIEGO BOTANIC GARDEN

5-9 p.m. Once the sun sets, the San Diego Botanic Garden becomes lit by over 125,000 lights. This winter wonderland is complete with snow, horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts and food. The Garden of Lights is open every day excluding Christmas and Christmas Eve. Admission is $15 dollars during the week and $20 Friday through Sunday. Active duty mili-

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE

5 p.m. Center for Spiritual Living Capistrano Valley will celebrate the reason behind the season, beyond the gifts and the gatherings to the light living in each individual. The service will also feature caroling and music by musical director Diane King-Vann and soloist Michael Garamoni. 1201 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.240.6463. www.cslcv.org.

Monday | 25

CHRISTMAS DAY HOLIDAY BUFFET

Noon-4 p.m. The Ritz-Carlton invites all to enjoy a holiday buffet with friends and family. Admission is $125. Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.

ORANGE COUNTY WINTER FEST

ZUCCHINI

screams comfort food. Customers can order the fried zucchini on the side for a deep fried, but not greasy, take on zucchini. Served with a side of creamy ranch, the fried zucchini is presented with a crusty exterior and a soft, warm zucchini inside.

A’s Burgers

34344 Paciﬁc Coast Hwy, Dana Point 949.496.4460

tary members are admitted free of charge Thursdays through Saturdays. 230 Quails Gardens Drive, Encinitas. 760.436.3036. www.sdbgarden.org.

Sunday | 24

CHRISTMAS EVE AT EL ADOBE

11 a.m.-9 p.m. El Adobe de Capistrano invites members of the public to enjoy a special Christmas menu created by Chef Carlos. 31891 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1163. www.eladobedecapistrano.com.

5 p.m. The OC Fair and Events Center presents a slice of the snowy holiday season at Winter Fest 2017. The festival features a 150-foot ice tubing slide, an ice skating rink and ﬁreworks. Tickets are $12-$15. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. 657.333.2520. www.winterfestoc.com.

Tuesday | 26

HAPA J’S TACO TUESDAY

11 a.m.-9 p.m. Join Hapa J’s for a taco Tuesday that reaches beyond your average chicken or carne asada tacos. Enjoy seared ahi poke, kalbi short rib and kalua pig tacos in addition to the more traditional selections. 2016 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.276.6675. www.hapajs.com.

ELF CRAWL 2017

2 p.m. Dress like an elf and receive discounts at ﬁve local eateries in San Juan Capistrano. The crawl starts at Ricardo’s Place at 2 p.m. and ends at Five Vines Wine Bar. Kids and dogs are welcome from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. 32082 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. www.sanjuanchamber.com.

Wednesday | 27

CANNON BATTLE SAILS

2-5 p.m. Climb aboard your favorite tall ship and learn the history that helped shape the Dana Point we know today, all while reenacting cannon battles with other visiting tall ships. Register online until the end of January to reserve your spot on your favorite tall ship. Admission is $65 for adults and $55 for children four and older. See site for dates and times. Ocean Institute. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org. (Cont. on page 26)

Photo: File

(Cont. from page 25)

Thursday | 28

TAP TAKEOVER AT PUBLIC 74

5 p.m.-10 p.m. Bell’s Brewery and San Juan Capistrano’s PUBlic 74, invites members of the public to a night of specialty beers and food pairings. Admission is free. PUBlic 74. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.2723. www.publicrestaurants.com.

SESSIONS AT STILLWATER

7 p.m. Listen to live music when artists from around the world perform together. StillWater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

Friday | 29

LIVE MUSIC: WATERMAN’S HARBOR

4-7 p.m. Join Waterman’s Harbor for live music with Hans & Janine every Friday. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT GOODY’S TAVERN

9 p.m. Local band, Sea Cure, will be stopping by Goody’s Tavern for their ﬁrst performance at this classic San Clemente venue. Show your support and enjoy a night of music and holiday cheer. 206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Saturday | 30

TALEGA RUN CLUB

SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN

2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Millertime Boogie, followed by Hollywood Hillbillies at 8:30 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Sunday | 31

HENDRIX NIGHT LIVE

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Ring in the New Year at the newly opened Hendrix Restaurant and Bar. Enjoy food, drinks, and live performances from Addie Hamilton, Sonic Boom and local favorite Stone Jones. Tickets start at $25. Hendrix Restaurant and Bar. 32431 Street of the Golden

Lantern, Laguna Niguel. 949.248.1912. www.hendrixoc.com.

BARNOA WINE BAR NEW YEAR’S EVE

7 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Key of Whiskey will perform. The reservations for this ﬁll up quickly. Call to reserve your space. Barnoa Wine Bar, 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

Monday | 01

KOI FISH FEEDING

12:45 p.m. Everyday visitors are welcomed to help Mission San Juan Capistrano feed their koi ﬁsh in both courtyards. Fish food is free for Mission Preservation Society members and $1 for non-members. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

Tuesday | 02

BEND & BREW

6-7 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 fellow yogis and beer drinkers. $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing.com.

HAPA J’S TACO TUESDAY

Wednesday | 03

OLD CAPISTRANO CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET

3-6 p.m. Stop by and check out some locally grown, organic produce and artisan goodies at a farmers’ market that has been going strong for over 15 years. Free admission. Historic Town Center Park. 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700. www.farmersmarketsjc.com

MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY

7 p.m. Every Wednesday, Waterman’s Harbor bartenders and mixology experts teach guests how to make the restaurant’s cocktails. Guests will have the opportunity to make and taste three cocktails. Event is $25. Waterman’s Harbor. 34661 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.764.3474. www.watermandp.com.

On Stage at the Coach House: Donavon Frankenreiter

BY ALLISON JARRELL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Renowned musician and surfer Donavon Frankenreiter will be catching a “Big Wave” back to his Orange County stomping grounds for a show at The Coach House on New Year’s Eve. Frankenreiter is no stranger to South Orange County—he grew up surﬁng in San Clemente, and by the age of 15, he found himself surﬁng professionally and being sponsored by the likes of Billabong and Hobie Surfboards.

Frankenreiter also developed his love of music at an early age and was inspired to try his hand at the guitar as a teenager.

After forming the band, Sunchild, in the mid-1990s, Frankenreiter released a solo EP in 2002 and went on to eventually produce his ﬁrst album under Jack Johnson’s label in 2004.

Since then, Frankenreiter has successfully cultivated his laidback, breezy acoustic style, releasing six albums including his latest, The Heart, which marks his second decade as a solo recording artist. His newest album includes tracks like,

“Big Wave,” “Sleeping Good Tonight,” “The Way You Catch the Light,” and “When the River Bends,” that explore love, loss, faith, joy, freedom and selfexamination.

“All these songs are as close to me singing from the heart as I can,” Frankenreiter said in a press release. “It’s a complete record; the songs are intertwined. I had to call it The Heart, that was the theme of the record.” Doors open at 6 p.m. on Dec. 31 for the show, which begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $45. The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano. For tickets or more information, call 949.496.8930 or visit www. thecoachhouse.com. SC

At the Movies: Johnson Keeps ‘Star Wars’ on Track

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Star Wars: Episode VIII— The Last Jedi surprisingly became the most divisive and polarizing movie to end 2017. After J.J. Abrams revived the franchise with the very successful, but very creatively safe, Episode VII— The Force Awakens (2015) and then Gareth Edwards gave us the barely decent side ﬁlm Rogue One (2016), San Clemente’s own Rian Johnson had a lot on his shoulders to keep the series aﬂoat for fans. The result currently in theaters is fascinating, to say the least.

Picking up where The Force Awakens left off, Rey (Daisy Ridley) is still courting Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) to mentor her into becoming a Jedi and connecting with the Force. Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) is trying to recruit Rey to turn her potential

over to the dark side. Leia Organa (Carrie Fisher) is having to deal with Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac) ignoring her orders; and Finn (John Boyega) meets Rose (Kelly Marie Tran) who can be a great help to the Rebellion.

What most people were likely expecting was for the second film in this new trilogy to be like Episode V— The Empire Strikes Back (1980): darker and deeper. It is safe to say that Johnson’s new feature is not along the lines of Empire. It is completely its own thing and is the least “Star Wars-y” film made in terms of tone. Some will like the overt comic relief, some might not. Some might not like the character developments. For the first time ever, I’m recommending a Star Wars movie to viewers who aren’t fans. SC

Photo: Courtesy

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION:

Life’s a Beach by

Shelley Murphy

Holiday Wishes: Family Is the Best Gift

My two sons spend weeks compiling their Christmas wish lists. Not me, each year my list is short and my number one Santa request is always the same: I wish for a holiday spent together with my family.

When my boys were toddlers, I took for granted our gathering together around the same Christmas tree and never imagined including my kids’ company on my holiday wish list.

My younger son attends college and my older son resides in another state, so this year we’re settling for celebrating the season over a long weekend.

It might be my new normal, but I still miss our old ordinary.

As elementary and eventually high school students, my boys counted down the days to their two-week recess. Then, when they started college, I began marking the days until they returned home for their month-long break.

I can’t wait until my kids come home for the holiday. When they arrive, we’ll spend as much time together as possible before they dash away; but the long weekend is short and the time ﬂies in a ﬂurry of fun.

My boys’ homecoming brings a frenzy of festivity and friends to our empty nest, transforming it into a merry and bright home.

Decking the halls and preparing for St. Nick’s visit includes hanging the stockings by the chimney with care. As always, our stockings hang from the letters atop the mantle of the ﬁreplace—letters arranged to spell wish.

Stringing the twinkling lights and hanging the shiny ornaments evokes memories of Christmases past, and as my mind

Jeremy Conrad

949.542.8348

Jconrad@conradrealestate.com

Bill Conrad

949.542.8349

BillC@conradrealestate.com

wanders I envision a whimsical wish list. I believe in the magic of the season, but even the big guy in the red suit can’t ﬁll these wishes:

I wish for my boys’ Christmas lists to be handwritten in crayon with pictures instead of high-tech texts with website links.

I wish after washing and folding countless loads of laundry that the clothes be placed in an upstairs dresser drawer instead of being packed into a piece of luggage.

I wish I still bought milk and cookies; and late at night on Dec. 24 I’d ﬁnd myself laughing at my husband nibbling strategic bites of cookies and guzzling warm gulps of milk while I stuff the stockings.

I wish that before sunrise my boys would race down the hallway into our bedroom and beg my husband and me to hurry downstairs in hopes of ﬁnding toys under our tree straight from Santa’s sack.

By Shelley Murphy

I wish my holiday shopping didn’t include buying only gifts that can pass through the TSA security checkpoint or ﬁt into a dufﬂe bag for the trip “home.”

I wish I were hiding the presents tagged with Santa’s signature and waiting until after my kids fell asleep on Christmas Eve to tuck them under the tree.

My magical yuletide list recalls heartfelt memories of holidays long ago. But I really don’t want to turn back the hands of time—instead I want to speed up the clock. In two days my boys ﬁnally come home and once again we all will be together.

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

FROM THE ARCHIVES Hotel San Clemente photographed for the Fasher Foto Postcard Collection in 1948. The courtyard of the builing is now home to Cafe Calypso.

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 Last week’s solution:

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

Did you know that...

• San Clemente has over 975 sales for 2017, with an average sales price of $1,061,000 and average time of 60 days to sell

• At this time in Orange County, last December 2016, there were 4217 active listings, while today, there are just 4054 active listings

• Out of the 4054 active listings in Orange County, there are approximately 69 listings that are distress sales (1.7%), which are bankruptcy, bank owned or short sales.

Courtesy of Pomona Public Library/Calisphere

Wheels of Fortune Holiday Bikes for Kids provides bicycles for youth achievements

BY ALLISON JARRELL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area held its seventh annual Holiday Bikes for Kids event at the club on Dec. 19.

Urban Bicycle Outﬁtters—also known as Bicycle San Clemente—presented 20 club members with brand-new bicycles and helmets. The generous act was made possible with the help of more than 20 donors. A list of donors is provided in this article at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Veronica Vega, club activities director, introduced Pete Van Nuys, owner of Urban Bicycle Outﬁtters, who gave a helmet safety presentation before the bicycles were distributed. Vega said this annual program is important because it “encourages kids to go out and ride their bikes and get some physical activity.”

“We’re very, very proud of what we can do here during the Christmas holiday season,” said Terry Hughes, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club. SC

Clockwise from top: Thanks to the help of dozens of generous donors, Urban Bicycle Outﬁtters was able to donate 20 bikes to members of the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area. Terry Hughes, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, gives a quick bicycle demonstration prior to Tuesday night’s presentation. Stephanie Escobar, 9, of San Clemente, waits patiently as her mother, Virginia Barrera, adjusts her helmet. Photos: Allison Jarrell

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

SanClemente STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Triton Report

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Tritons Girls Soccer Remains Unbeaten, Unblemished

San Clemente did not allow a goal in three games at the Mater Dei Premier Invitational for a 1-0-2 record to remain unbeaten through 10 games. The Tritons (7-0-3) have only allowed two goals all season. San Clemente was ranked ninth in the season’s ﬁrst CIF-SS Division 1 poll on Dec. 11. The Tritons will play in the prestigious Excalibur tournament starting Tuesday, Dec. 26.

Boys Soccer Takes Third at Home Tournament

San Clemente earned bronze as hosts of the national Lotto Sport Western Showcase.

The Tritons (4-3) beat Corona del Sol of Arizona, 1-0, but fell to Auburndale of Florida on penalty kicks, 1-1 (4-3), in the

semiﬁnals. The Tritons sent 15 shots on goal in the loss.

San Clemente shut down Paramount in the third-place match, 3-0. Blake Bowen scored two goals in the match and led the Tritons with three in the tournament.

Boys Basketball Earns Consolation Win

The Tritons (8-3) dropped a close opener to University, 71-68, in the SoCal Elite Gary Raya Tournament but won their next three to take the consolation bracket victory.

San Clemente had a different leading scorer in each win with Chris Kane, Jacob Nemeth and Josh Walker taking the honors. Nemeth hit a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to defeat Irvine, 55-54, in the second win.

Volleyball Coach Beard Resigns

Tritons girls volleyball coach Tom Beard resigned Tuesday after four seasons. Beard, a San Clemente alum, said he wanted to focus on the business of his volleyball club and an impending home remodel.

The Tritons went 16-16 last season and 59-58 overall with Beard as coach.

COLUMN: Breazeale Banter By Steve Breazeale

Thanks for the Memories

After nearly six years, I will no longer be the sports guy at Picket Fence Media. This will be the last piece with my byline attached to it, and it’s making me nostalgic. But can you blame me? San Clemente is essentially where I grew up.

After going away for college, I landed a full-time job here a year after graduating. Talk about being lucky.

Over the years, I’ve seen a lot and hopefully, if you’ve been following along, you got to read about it all.

I was there for the start of the San Clemente Sports Wall of Fame, which goes to show how diverse, and ridiculously talented, people from SC are.

I’ll remember the great white sharks (luckily not seen in person), world-class surfers (so many surfers) and the rise of stand-up paddleboarding.

I was there for the 2016 San Clemente High School football team’s march to a state title. Remember that parade down Del Mar? That was a scene straight out of a movie. It’s a special place that’s always—although I never lived in the city limits—felt like a second home.

To all the coaches and students at San Clemente High School, thanks for allowing me to share your stories. The quality of talent and, most importantly, character that I’ve encountered in the student-athletes and coaches at SCHS is something everyone in town should be proud of.

Same goes to all of the members of the community. I never had to worry about what would ﬁll up the next week’s sports page because you supplied me with so many stories. My inbox and voicemail were always full, which in this industry is a good thing.

This sports page will be in good hands with the new sports editor Zach Cavanagh taking charge. Thanks to all of my awesome and talented coworkers, past and present, who believe in the importance of local news and for helping me along the way. They’re a passionate bunch.

Thanks for everything, and thanks for reading. SC

BREAZEALE BANTER

By Steve Breazeale

San Clemente Sports & Outdoors Year in Review

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

The 2017 calendar year was ﬁlled with memorable San Clemente sports moments, from the thrills of Ocean Fest to the gridiron at Thalassa Stadium and to the success of locals on the national stage.

Here is a look back at some of the deﬁning San Clemente sports moments of 2017.

JANUARY

Darnold Dazzles in Rose Bowl Victory

In an instant classic that will go down in Trojans football lore, San Clemente’s Sam Darnold led the University of Southern California football team to a 52-49 victory over Penn State in the Rose Bowl. Darnold, the Trojans’ quarterback, threw for a Rose Bowl-record ﬁve touchdown passes and a record 474 yards of offense.

Langland Lands Gold at X Games

Sixteen-year-old San Clemente native Hailey Langland unleased a cab double cork 1080 (three full rotations) to earn a gold medal-winning score of 49 in the women’s Big Air ﬁnals at X Games Aspen on Jan. 26.

FEBRUARY

Tritons Sign National Letters of Intent

Twenty student-athletes took part in a National Letter of Intent signing day cer-

South Coast League title with an 11-7 win over Dana Hills on April 25.

Harlow Selected by Falcons in NFL Draft

With the 136th overall pick in the fourth round of the NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons selected San Clemente native, and offensive lineman, Sean Harlow out of Oregon State University. Harlow eventually made the team’s 53-man roster.

MAY

Hamro Honored in Football Hall

John Hamro, San Clemente High School’s athletic director and longtime coach for the football team, was inducted into the Triton Football Hall of Fame on May 19.

Trio Inducted into SC Sports Wall of Fame

Off-road motorcycle racer Johnny Campbell, volleyball star Gabe Gardner and surfboard shaping icon Bill Stewart were inducted into the Friends of San Clemente Foundation’s Sports Wall of Fame in a ceremony at the Vista Hermosa Aquatics Center on May 20.

Presho, a Stanford commit, and the U.S. youth national volleyball team beat Cuba to place 15th overall at the FIVB Boys’ U19 World Championships in Bahrain on Aug. 27.

SEPTEMBER

Skate Contest Showcases Local Talent The ever-growing SC Open Skate Contest was held at Ralphs Skate Court on Sept. 16. The event, now in its 17th year, is a favorite among local skaters.

OCTOBER

Reyes Claims City’s Golf Championship

Marc Reyes of Torrance won a tightly contested San Clemente City Golf Amateur Championship with a two-day score of 136 (-8) on Oct. 22.

emony on campus at San Clemente High School, declaring their colleges of choice. As usual, SCHS had one of the largest assembly of student-athletes headed to the next level in the county.

Triton Hoops Team Extends Historic Streak

The San Clemente boys basketball team captured its third straight South Coast League title following a 53-45 win over El Toro on Feb. 3.

MARCH

Baseball Wins Anaheim Lions Tourney

The San Clemente High School baseball team captured the Anaheim Lions Tournament championship on March 29. SCHS won ﬁve straight games, defeating Valencia 6-5 in the title game.

APRIL

Triton Lacrosse Sets Record in Win

On what turned out to be a historic night, the San Clemente High School boys lacrosse team trounced rival Dana Hills in a 28-0 shutout victory at home on April 11. The 28 goals were a new program record and 13 different players found the back of the net.

Sanden Conquers North Pole Marathon

For her latest, most daring, athletic attempt, Beth Sanden completed the North Pole Marathon on April 16. Sanden, who is partially paralyzed, completed the 26.2mile icy trek on a custom hand cycle.

Glasgow Gathers Golf Equipment One Final Time Resident Don Glasgow collected thousands of new and used golf clubs and equipment to donate to the military one ﬁnal time. Glasgow collected over 13,000 clubs and 50,000 golf balls over the last eight years.

Tennis Team Wins Lucky No. 7

The San Clemente High School boys tennis team captured its seventh straight

JUNE

Reda Represents USA in World Games

SCHS alum Dylan Reda was named to the 45-man roster for the U.S. Federation of American Football team sent to play in the World Games in Wroclaw, Poland.

JULY

Ocean Fest Returns for 42nd Year

Hundreds of water athletes and surfers descended upon the San Clemente Pier to compete in the 42nd annual San Clemente Ocean Festival July 15-16.

AUGUST

Presho, Team USA Finish Strong in FIVB World Championship San Clemente’s Kyler

Water Polo Captures Elusive League Title For the ﬁrst time since 2009, the San Clemente boys water polo team won the South Coast League title after defeating Capo Valley 16-7 on Oct. 25.

NOVEMBER

Triton Football Sets Record Win Streak In a magical run that lasted almost exactly one year, the San Clemente High School football team set a new program record for consecutive wins. The Tritons won 15 straight games, a streak that began on Nov. 11, 2016 and ended with a 49-21 loss to Mission Viejo on Nov. 3, 2017.

DECEMBER

Bowl-Bound

Seven former San Clemente High School football players and their current college teams qualiﬁed for NCAA Division 1 Football Bowl Subdivision bowl games to be played throughout the month.

San Clemente’s Sam Darnold dazzled the nation with a Rose Bowl performance for the ages.

Photo: USC Athletics/John McGillen

L to R: Bill Stewart, Gabe Gardner and Johnny Campbell were inducted into the Friends of SC Foundation’s Sports Wall of Fame. Photo: Steve Breazeale

SC SanClemente

ACCOUNTING

Chris W. Johnston, CPA, MBA 34184 Paciﬁc Coast Highway Dana Point, 949.240.8015, www.cwjcpacorp.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

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

ELECTRIC BIKES

Murf Electric Bikes

212 N. El Camino Real, 949.370.3801, www.murfelectricbikes.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.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

MORTGAGES

Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast

Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage 949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

SC Rider Supply 520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com

MUSIC LESSONS

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com

Panagia Music: Music Lessons and More! 949.705.7573, panagiamusic@gmail. com, www.panagiamusic.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com

PEST/TERMITE CONTROL

accuratetermitecontrol.com 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

Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Contact Susie Lantz at 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@picketfencemedia.com

Bill Metzger Plumbing 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com

REALTORS

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

Sherry Wild, LuXre Realty BRE # 01480453, 949.275.8937 www.LuXreRealty.com

RESTAURANTS

Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

SALONS

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

WEBSITE DESIGN

San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

CUSTOM AREA

RUGS

You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and ﬂooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of ﬂooring. We sell tile too! Mike at Lantern Bay Carpets: 949-240-1545.

Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls. Submit your classiﬁed ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

BAN SLEEPING, SITTING, WAITING, BEGGING, PARKING, DRUGS USE IN DANA POINT PUBLIC SPACES

Dana Point City Council: Ban sleeping, sitting, begging and drugs on streets, sidewalks, parks and public places.” and wanted to see if you could help by adding your name. We need more support. Link: http://chn.ge/2B0Cf1Y Thanks! Jason

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.

In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Call at Susie Lantz for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@picketfencemedia.com.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

If Only Santa

Surfed

Holiday gift ideas for the wave-rider in the family

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

When I was 10 years old, my parents gave me a wetsuit for Christmas. It was a used, navy blue O’Neill 3-millimeter full suit. I was so proud of my new rubber that, unbeknownst to my folks, I wore it to school under my clothes the first day back from vacation. Trying to be sneaky, I wore jeans and a turtleneck over it (hey, it was the 1980s, turtlenecks were cool). By first recess, I was drowning in sweat and my neck was completely chafed. Staunchly dedicated to my ridiculous line of reasoning, I kept the suit on all day. When I got home from school around 3 p.m., I was a miserable, swampy mess, but so stoked. Thirty years down the track, I was taking my daughter to school when she blurted out, “Mom and I haven’t got anything for you for Christmas yet. We can’t figure out what to get you.”

Therein lies the conundrum of holiday gift giving for the surfer in your family. It can be as satisfyingly easy as a new wetsuit for the grom or as challenging as ﬁguring out what to get the salty old wave-rider who has a dozen boards in their rack, a full

wardrobe of wetsuits and doesn’t really appear to need, or want, much. When it comes to buying presents for surfers, a great rule of thumb is to keep it simple. Don’t overthink things…that’s kind of one of the surf mantras, after all.

First, if you’re considering buying a new board for that special someone, let them pick it out. Surfboards are a highly personal thing and everybody has their own unique kink. It’s much more nuanced than deciding between a shortboard or a longboard. For the lifelong surfer, picking out a new board means fondling the rails, feeling the swing weight under arm and eyeballing the outline from every conceivable angle. There is no shortage of great surf shops in San Clemente, so if you’re dead-set on buying your beau a board, take them shopping or put a gift certiﬁcate under the tree.

Admittedly, new surfboards are expensive. A fresh sled off the rack will set you back between $500 to $800, so it’s understandable if you don’t want to go that big. Thankfully, for as minimalist as some surfers try to be, there’s no shortage of gear you can load up on. No surfer is going to complain if you get them a fresh set of fins for Christmas. Depending on what materials and design you go with, a well-tuned set of FCS or Futures shortboard fins will cost between $75 to $120 (make sure and include a gift receipt, because like boards, fins are a matter of personal taste). Another clutch idea is a new leash. They’re typically under $40 and are the gift that will keep on giving all year long. Board socks, board bags,

ding repair kits, wax—they’re all stuff the surfer in your life will use on a day-in, day-out basis.

With the winter water temps sliding down to the upper 50’s, it may also be time to upgrade their wetsuit. A good 3-millimeter fullsuit will run between $300 to $500 depending on the brand and what kind of sales are going on. With wetsuits, you usually get what you pay for, so when shopping, be sure to ask the salesperson about the suit’s materials, seam construction and most important what kind of warranty is offered. If you don’t want to go the fullsuit route, 1-millimeter or 2-millimeter wetsuit tops, also called “jackets” are a great idea that’s reasonably priced (they’re perfect for summertime around here). Booties and hoods for the cold dawn patrol sessions are also usually much appreciated. If you’re not in the market for surf gear, fret not. Remember, surfers are easy. A warm ﬂannel shirt, a baggy hooded sweatshirt or a cozy beanie all are great for getting the body temp back up post session. New sandals or boardshorts never disappoint either. You could also throw down and get them a new California State Park pass for $195.

As this goes to press, we’re about 96 hours away from Christmas. The tide’s not completely out yet, there’s still time to swing through the San Clemente surf ghetto or hit up your favorite surf shop. Happy holidays, and if you get your grommet a wetsuit, make sure he or she’s not wearing under their clothes when they go back to school in a of couple weeks. SC

NORDHEIM

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

It was a family trip to Costa Rica when she was 11 years old that really sold San Clemente’s Cora Nordheim on surﬁng.

“My dad introduced me to the ocean, and I ﬁrst got started by my uncle, Bill, teaching me everything and taking me out at Old Man’s,” Cora said, “but I really got into it when I visited Costa Rica.”

Four years since that fateful trip to Central America, today Cora’s a 15-year-old freshman at Mater Dei High School. She’s quickly asserted herself as a valuable member of the school’s surf team, and when she’s not studying or training, chances are you’ll ﬁnd her in the water at T-Street or Middles.

“I enjoy the peace of surﬁng out in the water because once I get out there, I don’t have to do anything accept be in God’s country,” Cora explained. “I don’t have to do homework or chores.”

As far as what she’d like to get out of the sports, Cora’s got designs on going the distance with it.

“I would like to be a professional surfer if possible because I would be able to impact a lot of people’s lives and be able to travel,” she said. “If that doesn’t work out, I would like to be a pilot because I feel like we spend so much time on the ground, why not spend it in the air and enjoy the ride and view?” SC

SURF FORECAST

Water Temperature: 59-62 degrees F

Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair

Thursday: Modest WNW swell and new South swell through the day. The better exposed breaks are in the knee-waist high (2-3’) range while standout spots are up to chest high on sets. Light/variable southerly winds through the early morning, with light to moderate onshore ﬂow building over the afternoon.

Outlook: Small WNW swell and South swell continues the back half of the week with conditions looking favorable in the mornings. Better South swell lining up around the Christmas holiday. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surﬂine for more details and the longer range outlook.

There are a variety of holiday gifts for the surfer in your family. Photo: File

Cora Nordheim. Photo: The Nordheim family