July 13, 2017

EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week

Citizens Oversight Motion States ‘Sufficient Progress’ Made on SONGS Settlement Talks; Malibu Meeting Switched to San Diego

THE LATEST: As the lawsuit filed by Citizens’ Oversight Projects against the California Coastal Commission over a permit to store spent nuclear fuel on-site at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) continues, the next court hearing has been moved to 2 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, in San Diego Superior Court.

The lawsuit has been in the middle of a settlement discussion since the beginning of summer.

In a motion to continue, Mike Aguirre, an attorney representing Citizens’ Oversight in the case, stated, “Sufficient progress has been made with respect to a settlement such that, with additional time, an agreement may be reached, which would resolve this matter.”

Emails to Citizens’ Oversight asking to clarify the meaning of “significant progress” were not returned to the San Clemente Times by press time, but because the settlement talks are still ongoing, it’s unlikely they’ll be discussed in public until the time of the hearing.

Citizens’ Oversight claims in its suit that the permitting process conducted by the Coastal Commission and Southern California Edison, the majority stakeholder of SONGS, was done improperly and without enough research in 2015. They also claimed the required inspections of the canisters planned to house the spent nuclear fuel was not frequent enough in the permit.

WHAT’S NEXT: An informal meeting originally planned to take place in Malibu during a regularly scheduled Coastal Commission meeting, which will include representatives from the Commission, Southern California Edison and other officials, has been relocated. The Oct. 11-13 meeting—now in San Diego—was moved in order to accommodate more people who live closest to the now-shuttered nuclear power plant, according to Coastal Commission officials. The exact location

for the meeting has not yet been published. —Eric Heinz

Officials: Animal Shelter Was Ready to Move Pets During Fire

THE LATEST: Charred remains of shrubbery and what was grassland on the southern hillsides near the San ClementeDana Point Animal Shelter shows just how close the wildland fire on June 28-30 came to the shelter.

Most of what’s visible from the animal shelter was a controlled burn by firefighters to stop the rapid blaze, but animal shelter personnel said they were ready to ship Milo and Otis off to safekeeping.

Kim Cholodenko, the general manager for the Coastal Animal Services Authority (CASA), which goes by the name San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter, was on-site the night the fire started.

“A couple staff members stayed here that night and were watching the fire as it burned on the hillside,” Cholodenko said, adding she was in constant contact with Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) and the chief of police in Dana Point during the fire. “We were not so concerned, but…the flames were not too far away.”

No evacuations were ordered by OCFA during the fire.

Cholodenko said many people reached out to the shelter via social media to offer support, and she reciprocated by letting people know on Facebook and other outlets that the shelter was safe.

The animal shelter does not provide boarding, so all of the animals there are unowned.

Cholodenko said evacuation processes can vary based on availability of space with local resources. It can also depend on how much time they have to get out, but she said they could start sending animals out to other facilities within 10 to 15 minutes. The shelter has vehicles and transportation devices for these procedures.

Jennifer Stinett, animal services supervisor for the city of San Clemente, said experience as well as education helps facilitate evacuations.

“I think that our staff’s experience kind of kicks in, although we haven’t done (an evacuation) before, we train and we have been to classes on how to evacuate,” Stinett said.

The shelter houses anywhere between 40 to 80 animals on average at a time.

WHAT’S NEXT: Camp Pendleton officials are still investigating the cause of the fire, as it began on the military base and progressed into San Clemente. Three fires have been contained since then in the same area. One on Wednesday, July

5, burned 52 acres, and another burned more than 150 on Tuesday, July 11. Cholodenko said the shelter has never experienced wildland fires as close as these, but they have seen fires near the San Clemente border. —EH

Outlets at San Clemente Reps Seek Legal Action against City Over Signage

THE LATEST: Following the city’s revocation of 18 temporary sign permits, owners of the Outlets at San Clemente said they have filed an injunction against the city of San Clemente regarding its signage in order to compel the municipality.

Steve Craig of Craig Realty Group, which owns and operates the Outlets at San Clemente, said the city has not honored its prior agreements that allow for freeway-oriented signage from more than a decade ago.

“The city promised permanent signs that should have gone up in 2015 and the city has been doing an EIR (environmental impact review) since 2015,” Craig said. “They’ve taken too long.”

The injunction was not accessible via the Orange County Superior Courts website, but Craig said the legal action is intended to compel the city to allow for the permanent signage for which the Outlets has already agreed.

Cecilia Gallardo-Daily, the city’s Community Development director, said the city had issued some of the permits “in error” because, according to the city’s code, no business can have a temporary sign or banner or something similar visible for more than 120 days in one calendar year. The Outlets have had temporary signage for more than that time, Gallardo-Daily said.

Since April, the businesses within the

Outlets have been issued fines for the signage. The San Clemente Times has submitted a public records request regarding the fines, but it was not readily available as of press time Wednesday morning.

Currently, there are non-permanent signs emblazoned around the Outlets freeway-facing walls.

The retail center currently has an application filed with the city for permanent signage, but these proposals have been rejected by community members, particularly in the Marblehead area where the signs would face. The signage is proposed to be “halo-illuminated,” which would put low lighting behind the identification.

Craig said the city is bound to a business agreement that was forged 1998 as well as agreements in 2007.

“I expect them to live up to the obligations,” Craig said. “I don’t expect more than what we agreed to.”

WHAT’S NEXT: Gallardo-Daily said the Outlets has submitted an appeal of the Planning Commission’s decision, which is expected to be heard Tuesday, Aug. 15, regarding the temporary signage permits.

—EH

South Orange County Wastewater Authority to be Audited by Independent Firm

THE LATEST: Per a request by state Sen. Patricia Bates and Assemblyman Bill Brough, both of whom represent San Clemente and Dana Point, an independent audit of the financial procedures of the South Orange County Wastewater Authority (SOCWA) will be conducted.

A legislative bipartisan committee approved the request on Wednesday, June 28.

(Cont. on page 4)

(Cont. from page 3)

The request comes after the Moulton Niguel Water District, a participant of SOCWA, accused the district of having $1 million in unaccounted funds, a lack of transparency and other accusations, according to a press release from Moulton Niguel.

But officials with SOCWA said Moulton Niguel has failed to make payments of about $900,000 for repairs on a water treatment facility in Laguna Beach, the Coastal Treatment Plant.

“They haven’t paid their bills dating back more than one year,” said Steve Greyshock, a spokesperson for SOCWA. “Members have been asking for a long time. After about a year, member agencies were forced to ask them to stop being delinquent. There are projects that are being delayed because there’s missing money. It’s vitally important that projects continue.”

Greyshock said the Moulton Niguel district no longer requires the services of the plant and therefore did not want to pay for the repairs.

“They’re basically asking to dissolve their contract and exit their agreement, and that’s fine, but other agencies are asking them to pay their bills,” Greyshock said.

The SOCWA serves about 600,000 people in South Orange County, which includes San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano. Moulton Niguel currently owns about 30 percent equity of the treatment plant.

WHAT’S NEXT: Both parties appear to be eager to see the results of the audit. Greyshock said SOCWA welcomes it. A statement from Moulton Niguel also shows support of the financial review.

“While the audit was met with ardent opposition by SOCWA, we are very pleased to see that the audit is moving forward,” said Joone Lopez, General Man-

ager of the Moulton Niguel Water District. “We appreciate the tremendous support from Senator Bates, Assemblyman Brough and all of the JLAC members in advancing public transparency, fiscal accountability and effective governance.”

According to the press release from Moulton Niguel, the audit is expected to take about six months.

FIND OUT MORE: Links to the audit and additional information will be provided in this article online at www.sanclementetimes.com. —EH

Public Safety Task Force Hosts First Meeting

THE LATEST: What was borne from a suggestion via a study on crime, commissioned by the city, the San Clemente Public Safety Task Force conducted its first meeting on Friday, July 7.

The task force, comprised of members of the public, city staff, City Council members and the chief of Police Services, discussed possible solutions to crime in San Clemente.

The task force is designed to assess crime statistics in order to provide suggestions to the City Council and Police Services.

Matrix Consulting Group, which conducted a study of crime in the city, reported months ago that, out of a sample of about 500 people, many people think crime is increasing in San Clemente.

Contrarily, crime statistics have stayed fairly consistent, Matrix officials reported, that most of the crimes are related to property.

Petty theft is one crime that has risen since last year.

The most important crime issues the task force wanted to address included the homeless population, visibility of officers and communication with the public via Police Services.

Lt. Mike Peters, Chief of San Clemente Police Services, said his department is trying to staff as many officers as possible, some of whom are still in training or parttime officers.

As far as the homeless population, Peters explained the regional issue will need regional solutions and that the problems are not unique just to San Clemente.

Task force members stopped short of talking about sober living homes and behavioral health treatment facilities, as the city is under current litigation with an emergency/homeless shelter organization as well as other behavioral health treatment facilities.

WHAT’S NEXT: Peters said the department is starting to compile monthly crime statistics, as was requested by the City Council. The next Public Safety Task Force Meeting is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 18, at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville. —EH

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY STAFF

Volunteers Luncheon

On Friday, July 7, the city of San Clemente recognized a few of its hardest working volunteers from the last year at the 2017 Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon.

“You are indeed the absolute greatest gift to San Clemente, and we would not have such a vibrant and wonderful community if it were not for our dedicated members of the city’s volunteer corps,” Mayor Kathy Ward said during the presentation.

The two volunteers of the year were Kay Lehmacher and Ray Kunkle. Andrea Workman of the Community Emergency Response Team received a special certificate of recognition.

Kay Lehmacher, Animal Shelter Volunteer

Lehmacher has been a dedicated volunteer for over 12 years at the animal shelter. Lehmacher is a member of the Pet Project Foundation (PPF), serving on the board as president and more recently walking the animal shelter dogs on a weekly basis, according to a press release from the city.

“Kay has played a vital role in fundraising for the PPF to benefit the Animal Shelter,” the release stated. “She has chaired many functions, including the San Clemente Fiesta Festival, Tail of Two Cities, Oktoberfest, Whales & Tails Wag-A-Thon, Saddleback Dog Fair, Bark ‘N Brew, and many more.”

Lehmacher has also hosted a dinner event at her home for the past two years called “Gimme Shelter,” where food and beverages were provided with all proceeds donated to PPF. She was also part of the construction of permanent awnings, which serve to protect dogs from heat and inclement weather, which were funded by the foundation.

Ray Kunkle, RSVP Volunteer

Since 1997, Kunkle has been a member of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), which assists the department with various tasks by providing volunteer support. The primary focus of the program is to allow sworn deputies to remain active in the field to protect the citizens.

“During 2016, Kunkle has volunteered many hours of service,” the release stated. “(He has) performed duties for the public by doing home checks for citizens who are on vacation, patrolling the community as a deterrence to criminal activity, working at the PACT informational booth at the pier, enforcing parking limits and issuing parking citations and has worked many special events hosted by the city.”

Kunkle also shouldered the responsibility for two of the “more challenging” quartermaster positions as scheduler and as leader of the Uniform Team, ensuring that all duties were covered by properly assigning the various tasks to the RSVP volunteer membership.

“Drawing from his past experience as a former RSVP Coordinator, he continues to contribute to the leadership as a current

member of the RSVP Steering Committee,” the release stated. “He is very organized and accurate during his various duties and is a welcome addition to the RSVP organization and San Clemente Police Services.”

FAM Update

Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) serves homeless and low-income Orange County individuals and families in need with food, clothing and personal care items. Food items can be purchased for FAM or people can donate funds. A list of the items is available on the organization’s website.

On Aug. 25, FAM will host its annual golf tournament at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. Registration for the tournament opened this week. Tee times are expected to fill quickly.

For registration information, contact noelle@family-assistance.org or 949.492.8477 ext. 118 and visit www.family-assistance.org.

Love San Clemente Week

City government, businesses, residents, the faith community, service groups, schools and nonprofit organizations will come together July 12-16 for Love San Clemente Week. Bring your family and challenge your friends and neighbors to learn about making a difference.

“Love San Clemente is a grass roots coalition of local churches and San Clemente community volunteers that unite to show God’s love to San Clemente in practical ways through community service projects,” a press release from the organization stated.

Love San Clemente will begin with a kick off barbecue at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12, at Vista Hermosa Sports Park where volunteers will meet this year’s project leaders, enjoy a free barbecue dinner and receive a free t-shirt.

Each year, Love San Clemente targets five areas to “love bomb,” in other words, assist with cleanup and miscellaneous chores. They help out senior citizens, families in need, schools, the military and San Clemente community projects.

“This year’s event will include beautifi-

cation projects at Las Palmas Elementary School and Serra Preschool, beach cleanup projects, gardening projects at Presidio Senior Apartments, maintenance projects with Gilchrest House, Family Assistance Ministries food collection and distribution, Kids Around the World Meal packing project for Haiti and family outreach programs at Max Berg Plaza Park,” the release stated.

To register for one or more of the 2017 Love San Clemente projects, visit www. lovesanclemente.com.

For more information, contact Holland Davis at holland@calvarysanclemente.org.

Border Patrol Seizes $256K of Meth, Other Drugs at San Clemente Checkpoint

U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) agents patrolling Interstate 5 seized 75 bundles of methamphetamine from the vehicle of a 25-yearold U.S. citizen on Wednesday, July 5.

At around 8:45 p.m., USBP agents stopped a 2008 Mercedes Smart car about 3 miles north of the Border Patrol checkpoint near San Clemente. The 25-year-old male driver and his 60-year-old female passenger said they were headed to La Puente.

“Searching the car, the agents discovered 75 packages of methamphetamine and two packages of an unknown substance inside the cargo area of the vehicle,” a press release from the Border Patrol stated.

The bundles of methamphetamine weighed 75.51 pounds and have an estimated street value of $256,734. The other two packages weighed 4.96 pounds and were sent to a laboratory for identification.

The couple was arrested for narcotics smuggling and turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the narcotics.

To report suspicious activity to the USBP, contact the San Diego Sector at 619.498.9900.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.

Community Meetings

SATURDAY, JULY 15

ELKS NORTH BEACH FLEA MARKET

8 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendor space is available. Admission is free. Elk’s Lodge, 1505 N. El Camino Real. 949.492.2068.

SUNDAY, JULY 16

DEL MAR FARMERS MARKET

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

TUESDAY, JULY 18

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.

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

6 p.m. The City Council will host its regularly scheduled meeting. San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.

SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS

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

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING

7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 19

SAN CLEMENTE ROTARY

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

NORTH BEACH FARMERS MARKET

3-6:30 p.m. The Market at North Beach features vendors of food, jewelry and other wares, and there could be live music. 1501 N. El Camino Real.

www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX SC

San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST

OPINION: by

Megan Yoo Schneider, Representative

on the Board of Directors of the Municipal Water District of Orange County

California WaterFix Critical to South County

he Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta is 435 miles from South Orange County, but the impact of what happens there is felt as close to home as your shower.

The Delta is the heart of the State Water Project. Near Stockton, the Delta is where the tidal forces of the Pacific Ocean meet the outflows of the Sacramento and San Joaquin rivers. Water flows through the Delta before entering a series of reservoirs, pumps and canals that bring water from the Sierras to Southern California.

About 50 percent of the water used in South Orange County flows through the Delta. Without a rich aquifer, we are nearly dependent on water imported from the Sierras or the Colorado River.

Before that abundance of melted snow and freshwater reaches us, it must navigate more than 1,100 miles of levees that channel water through the Delta. In contrast, the entire California coastline is about 840 miles. But the levees are old and susceptible to failure from age, earthquake and even too much water. A catastrophic failure would cripple our water supply.

Efforts to protect fish and other environmental regulations also means that Southern California gets only 60 percent of its water allotment from the Sierras in an average year, which increases our depen-

Letters to the Editor

INTEGRITY OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES MUST BE MAINTAINED

LARRY CULBERTSON, San Clemente

In the May 18-24 edition of the San Clemente Times, I wrote about a proposal to significantly alter another historic building in San Clemente. Since about 1996, our city has stopped granting permission to demolish our historic buildings. But there is no limit to the number of square feet that can be added or where you put them. What is the difference between demolishing a historic building and altering it so that it looks quite different from the original? Would it remain a historic building?

On July 19, our Planning Commission decides the fate of 404 Monterey Lane. Built in 1927 as a 981-square-foot, twobedroom, one-bathroom home, it would be expanded by 984 square feet. This is not a proposal for a discreet addition tucked out of sight; it is for a highly visible, very large

dence on the Colorado River.

State officials and water leaders support a solution: the California WaterFix, which would build twin tunnels beneath the Delta to deliver the water to Southern California. A partner project, California EcoRestore, would create natural habitat through the Delta to support fish and address other environmental concerns.

By Megan Yoo Schneider

A study of Orange County’s future water supply determined the WaterFix is the single-most, cost-effective, large-scale project to ensure long-term water reliability for Southern California.

The WaterFix will ensure we receive our share of the water by taking it directly from the Sacramento River during high-flow periods, and funneling it beneath the Delta. Instead of losing valuable stormwater to the Pacific Ocean, the WaterFix will allow it to be captured and used where it is needed.

Your local water suppliers, all members of the Municipal Water District of Orange County, are working on new sources of water, too. The Santa Margarita and South Coast water districts and San Juan Capistrano want to maximize use of the area’s groundwater basin; South Coast plans a de-

two-story addition rammed against a beautiful one-story historic building. Those “long, horizontal lines” of the building are listed as one of its’ many character defining features. This project does not meet the requirements of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, the city’s General Plan, or the city’s design guidelines. We are required to be “respectful” of our historic resources. We can add to them, but the addition must be compatible with respect to “size, scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the property.” We cannot destroy any character-defining features. We cannot alter the “features, spaces and spatial relationships that characterize a property.” This project would violate all of those criteria set by the city. It is incredible to me that the Planning Commission would contort the rules to allow this project, but it has happened before. Please take the time to go look at 404 Monterey Lane. We must save this historic resource. If you agree with me that this is a historic resource worth preserving, then help the cause of preservation by writing a letter, sending an email, calling the Planning Commissioners, attending the

salination plant, and all agencies, including Moulton Niguel Water District, are honing the art of using water efficiently.

The Orange County Water Reliability found the WaterFix will remain a critical part of California’s water system even with these projects. Yes, the WaterFix comes with a price tag– about $5 per month per customer—but the cost of ignoring our infrastructure needs are much greater.

Leaders of the Laguna Beach County, Moulton Niguel and South Coast water districts have endorsed the WaterFix. Reach out to your elected officials—city, state and federal—and let them know you do, too.

Although your shower might be the first place you notice a water shortage, the impacts will be felt throughout Southern California.

See www.californiawaterfix.com for more information.

Megan Yoo Schneider is a registered engineer in California and represents South Orange County on the Board of Directors of the Municipal Water District of Orange County. She was elected in 2016. SC

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

meeting or speaking at the meeting. Commissioners do not respond much to a lone voice, but a chorus, maybe.

NO 241 TOLL ROAD THROUGH SAN CLEMENTE

PARRY FOSKETT, San Clemente

San Clemente is not a destination. Other than the residents of San Clemente, people drive through San Clemente either on their way south to San Diego or north to Los Angeles and beyond. What we do not need is another highway dividing an already divided city, separated by I-5, into quarters. If you believe San Clemente has a traffic problem now, then cramming a toll road through the city neighborhoods to T-bone the 5 freeway and thus adding more traffic, is definitely not the solution. The extension would create severe negative impact on the quality of human life and the environment from air and ocean pollution, road noise, runoff, reduced open space, blight and reduced home values. California once had the best-in-class free roadway system in the country. The move to supplant freeways for toll roads (Cont. on page 10)

Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com

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patch.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

(Cont. from page 9) is not only a betrayal of the government’s responsibility to represent all of its citizens, but a move to pass on the cost of quality free roads and highways from the pool of taxpayer money to a for-profit third party that masquerades as a public service—the disingenuous Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), which has a natural bias in order to protect its existence.

I urge all citizens of San Clemente to immediately get with and stay involved with opposing the extension of the 241. The time is now for the TCA and elected representatives to hear our collective voice loud and clear that San Clemente will adamantly stand against any extension of the 241. Visit www.notmytollroad.com and get involved.

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@sanclementetimes.com. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit readersubmitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. Please limit your letters to 350 words.

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, July 14 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso

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

Ocean Water Conditions Need Better Monitoring

In 1988, Cora and I purchased an interest in a beach condo in San Clemente and went out there on every third weekend. Eventually, we bought our partners’ interest, then we went out every weekend. That was my introduction to the San Clemente Pier. Every weekend, I went out there with two fishing poles, bait and a fishing net. I loved the peacefulness and view. I fished on different parts of the Pier looking for fish. Some days were better than others.

By Herman Sillas

On the good days, I took home fish that would become our dinner and placed the rest in the freezer for latter days. While out there on the Pier, I enjoyed the company of the men and women that I met. We shared stories or complained about our luck. Over the years, my fishing partners became weekend companions.

Some weekends my grandchildren came out to join me. When they caught a fish, I told them they had to kiss the fish and throw it back into the water, if they wanted to catch more fish. I assured my grandchildren that the fish thrown back would tell their friends to bite our bait. When that hap-

pened, they were amazed at my knowledge. I have met a lot of fishermen and women at the Pier. We shared stories and tales. Fisher-folks are all friendly, giving advice and suggestions how to catch fish. Some of us are still friends and see each other.

In 1996, Cora and I moved to a twobedroom apartment with a great view of the ocean and the San Clemente Pier. It became our new home until 2016 when the stairs became too hard for us to handle. We moved to a 55-and-older community here in San Clemente. The Pier is still our favorite place.

Last winter poured billions of gallons of polluted runoff into the oceans, significantly increasing health risks to many Southern California beaches, according to Heal the Bay’s Annual Beach Report Card. Sarah Sikich, the environmental group’s vice president, warned that if you swim at an open beach in the summer, make sure it is away from the storm drains and creek mouths. No local beaches received failing marks from April to October 2016, the summer reporting period.

But the annual survey of beaches statewide showed that San Clemente received an F grade for its summer reporting period. That is not good news. Almost half of the 85 beaches in Los Angeles that they monitored earned F grades during the wet winter. High

bacteria counts presented significant health threats to thousands of ocean-users, at risk of contracting such ailments as stomach flu, ear infections and rashes from a morning swim or surf session.

Our dear San Clemente was named as having received an F as a grade for the condition of its beach this summer. What happened? How did we arrive with such a mark? The city can’t allow this. We deserve better than this. Heal the Bay, the organization based in Santa Monica, also found bacterial levels spiked at some of California’s most popular beaches, as polluted runoff poured through storm drains and into the sea.

Normally, when you swim in the summer you have very little risk of drains during the wet winter. But this year, San Clemente made it on the “Beach Summer Bummer List.” Better planning is needed from our city. That’s the view of the Pier.

Herman Sillas is an author and residential of San Clemente and a former U.S. District Attorney. He may be reached at sillas@aol. com. SC

GETTING OUT SC

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

Thursday | 13

DANA POINT SCIENCE NIGHT

6:30 p.m. Learn about science-related topics in a family-friendly format. There are hands-on activities and/or displays that are geared toward children. Contact the Natural Resources Department at dpnaturalresources@danapoint.org or call 949.248.3527. Dana Point Community Center. 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

HEARST RANCH TASTING EVENT WITH SCOTT SAUNDERS

7-9 p.m. Join Barnoa Wine Bar for a tasting of Hearst Ranch with Scott Saunders. The price is $25 and includes light appetizers. Barnoa Wine Bar. 931 Via Suerte #106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

CASA COASTAL: THE MAKING OF HUNTINGTON GARDENS

7 p.m. Join the Casa for an evening lecture with Jim Folsom, director of botanical gardens, from the Huntington Library and Gardens. He will discuss the design, history and landscaping techniques instilled in their onsite gardens. General admission is $12 and $10 for members. Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Friday | 14

LIVE MUSIC: CALI SOL

7-10:30 p.m. Listen to music from Cali Sol at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE MUSIC: OLIVIA ROHDE

7:30-10:30 p.m. Listen to Olivia Rohde

EDITOR’S PICK

FRIDAY, JULY 14: THEATER IN THE PARK: ‘ROBIN HOOD’ 7:30 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse brings the legendary adventures of Robin Hood to life at San Juan Capistrano’s Historic Town Center Park. Watch as the story’s beloved characters fight to stop the evil Prince John and the nefarious Sheriff of Nottingham. See Maid Marian capture Robin’s heart as the history of England comes to San Juan Capistrano. Attendees will be treated to sword fights and an archery contest. The show runs each weekend through July 30. Tickets are $15. Historic Town Center Park. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

perform live. Barnoa Wine Bar. 931 Via Suerte #106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.

SUMMER OF THEATRE BIG BAND 2017

7:30-9:30 p.m. Joey Sellers and the Saddleback Big Band will feature Shep Shephered. Free admission. Saddleback College. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4500. www.saddleback.edu.

Saturday | 15

A WALK THROUGH HISTORY

9 a.m. The walk focuses on Dana Point’s history. It’s designed to introduce par-

ticipants to the main historical periods. The walk occurs the third Saturday of the month and begins at the Dana Point Natural Resources Center. 34558 Scenic Drive, Dana Point. RSVP to dpnaturalresources@ danapoint.org or call 949.248.3527.

LASS YOUR AFF OFF!

7:30-9:30 p.m. The monthly comedy show will guarantee to put a smile on your face and keep you laughing the whole evening. The show features comedians from television, radio and comedy clubs across the country. This month’s headliner is Dana Eagle. The event runs the fourth Saturday of each month. Admission is $15 and tickets can be purchased at www.comedy-

‘The Big Sick’ is a Deserved Sleeper Hit

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Amazon Studios’ new feature The Big Sick is a wonderful collaboration between comic actorturned-screenwriter Kumail Nanjiani, A-list producer Judd Apatow and indie filmmaker Michael Showalter. The film is reminiscent of My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) or Bend It Like Beckham (2002), where a young protagonist is attached to their overprotective family, and conflict arises when they begin a courtship with

someone outside of their culture. Here, Nanjiani not only loosely based the romantic comedy on his real life and cast himself as the lead, but also kept his real name for the character.

Nanjiani begins the film by showing how his family immigrated to the U.S. from Pakistan when he was a teenager, and then how his life consists of being an Uber driver, performing local stand-up and dodging his parents’ (Anupam Kher and Zenobia Shroff) insistence that he marry a nice Pakistani

intheoc.com. Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.481.1222. www.adelesanclementeinn.com.

ASTRONOMY NIGHT

8:45-10:45 p.m. Join the Reserve to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way during Astronomy Night. Guests will learn about the constellations and peer through telescopes. Spots fill quickly, and it’s a first come first serve basis. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children. The event is geared for 8 years and older. The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org.

Sunday | 16

BEND & BREW

11:30 a.m. iHeartYoga holds a Bend & Brew session at Left Coast Brewing Company’s tasting room in San Clemente. It’s a one-hour yoga class followed by a pint of beer. Admission $10. 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.363.3152. www.iheartyoga.com.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAYS

Noon-3 p.m. Listen to live performances every Sunday. Stillwater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.

LIVE THEATER: ‘HAIRSPRAY’

1 p.m. Heroine Tracy Turnblad twists her way into Baltimore’s stardom while fighting for integration on a local TV show. The show is held at various times until July 30. Tickets range in price depending on seat. The Laguna Playhouse. 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. 949.497.2787. www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

SHAKESPEARE ON THE GREEN

7:30 p.m. The Taming of the Shrew is a story about rebellious Katherina who stands in the way of her younger sister’s marriage and Petruchio is enlisted to (Cont. on page 25)

girl. In the middle of passively ignoring the blind dates set up by his mom, Kumail falls in love with a local white girl named Emily (Zoe Kazan), who is unaware she has a lung infection.

Like most of Apatow’s films, stand-up comedy plays a big role in the story, but not to an obnoxious level as was the case with Funny People (2008). Nanjiani and his wife, Emily Gordon, write their love story together in a charming and sentimental way. The Big Sick is the very definition a feel-good movie,

despite the subject of illness surrounding the plot, and possibly the best comedy of the year thus far. SC

The Greatest Show on Surf Welcome to

It’s time for the 41st Annual San Clemente Ocean Festival, when friends and families converge on the beaches around the San Clemente Pier to enjoy time together with fun and exciting outdoor activities and entertainment.

Entry is free, and you can start out both days with a delicious pancake breakfast cooked up by our San Clemente Lifeguards, then check out some of the activities, stop by our sponsor booths, or enter some of the athletic competitions. South of the Youth Pavilion, there will be free body surfing clinics, where you can learn about water safety and the “how to’s” of catching a wave.

The theme of this event—families and lifeguards engaged together in fun activities on the beach—has been the basis of the success of Ocean Festival. This has kept it unique and beyond imitation. The event is run by a volunteer board of directors and their executive, athletic and surf directors who pool their talents.

Saturday hosts the action-packed excitement of the National Doryman Association’s two-man lifeguard boat races that start and end on the beach with courses that take them through pounding surf, while trying to avoid the other teams as they race to the finish line.

Like surfing? Check out the stand-up paddleboard contest sponsored by Hobie Surf Shop on Saturday and the “Groms Rule” Surf Contest (boys and girls 14-under), sponsored by Rip Curl and Farmers and Merchants Bank on Sunday.

Join us for the 5k Beach Run, or if you prefer swimming, we have a one-mile ocean swim and many other competitions in and out of the water where you can test your athletic abilities.

This is the 25th year of “Woodies on the Pier” (15 different cars each day), where you can see lovingly salvaged and restored wood-sided wagons, each with their own style and character. There will be a fishing derby and clinic for all ages on Saturday, sponsored by Dana Wharf Sportfishing. You can view the beach activities from above at the Ocean Art Show that stretches along Parque Del Mar, while finding your very own “treasure” to take home with you as a remembrance of the great time you had at the event.

The Youth Pavilion, south of the Pier, will be packed with crafts, games and face painting as well as demonstrations and performances for all ages to enjoy! Saturday there will be a Dolphin Dash kid’s beach run for ages 12 and younger, sponsored by Clif Kid. All participants will receive an Ocean Festival medallion.

Sponsor booths will have information, activities and goodies to share with everyone. The presenting sponsor, Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar, will have a food court at the base of the Pier with a variety of treats to tickle your taste buds. Saturday evening, pull up your beach chair, towel or blanket and enjoy the free concert featuring Soul to Soul, a Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute band, sponsored by The Sheckler Foundation, as you watch the sun set behind Dana Point. Sand sculpting will start the day on Sunday and the ever-popular Great Rubber Duck Race will mark the weekend’s grand finale.

The San Clemente Ocean Festival has grown into a “tradition” for many within our community, the inland empire, and as far reaching as the East Coast, Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand. We thank San Clemente’s incredibly dedicated lifeguards, watching over all of us as we enjoy the weekend’s events.

Net proceeds from the event’s activities and ever-popular t-shirt sales enable us to support many local organizations and programs, benefitting families in San Clemente—field trips to the Ocean Institute, summer beach concerts, San Clemente Lifeguard programs, scholarships for local students and more.

To our sponsors and volunteers, thank you for all your hard work and support. To those who will be joining us for the first time, or have made the Ocean Festival an annual event, we welcome you to join us for the 41st Annual San Clemente Ocean Festival on July 15 and 16. There will be free parking and shuttle service from Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa. We hope you will agree that it truly is “The Greatest Show On Surf!” For more information and complete event schedules, visit www.oceanfestival.org.

—Peggy Vance, executive director of Ocean Festival

Woodie cars to make appearance at Ocean Festival for 25th year

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

Ocean Festival attendees will need to ready their favorite car-song-centric cassettes, CDs or playlists with favorites like the Eagles’ “Ol’ 55,” Wilson Pickett’s “Mustang Sally,” War’s “Low Rider” and the Beach Boys’ “Surf City” for the 25th anniversary of the Woodie Car Show on the Pier this weekend. Ocean Fest, a South Orange County and surf enthusiast tradition,

will showcase these surf culture emblems all weekend long.

Arlene Button and Gary Clark, organizers of the show and members of the Southern California Woodie Club, said 30 different cars from cities across Southern California will be on display for attendees both Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. with a new set each day.

“We have (woodie cars) coming from

as far as Carlsbad, another car from La Cañada Flintridge, another from Upland,” Button said. “We get most of the cars from Huntington Beach. That’s where the SoCal Woodie Club is centered, but many locals from San Clemente and Dana Point too.”

Attendees can expect to see woodie cars from various decades as well as different makes and models. This year’s festival will feature cars as old as 1928 and as new as 1969.

“The 1948 Chrysler Town and Country is actually a wood-clad convertible,” Clark said. “It’s owned by a local San Clemente person. It’s probably the most expensive woodie there is. It’s a very diversified group of people (who bring their cars to the show at Ocean Festival) and they are as diversified as their cars.”

Historically, woodie cars were used in England for hunting purposes, as well as served surveyors, were used as depot hacks and high end transportation for hotel guests before arriving as a staple with surfers, according to Clark.

“Woodies were big and cumbersome and most people who bought them were wealthier because they had to be maintained and varnished,” Clark said. “Generally, they became discarded and then that’s when the surfer people became aware of them for transporting their boards without hassle. They became a favorite for the surfing crowd and still are today.” •

King TRITON, Mermaids return to Ocean Festival

BY RACHEL WILFORD

King Neptune is returning for the annual Ocean Festival Mermaid Parade on Sunday, July 16, at 9 a.m. Ed Howie has played the role of King Triton in the parade since 2007. Howie, who also dresses up as Santa Claus for house parties and corporate events, was unable to be part of last year’s Mermaid Parade because he attended a Santa Claus convention in Missouri with 800 of his Santa brothers.

Howie is looking forward to diving back into his King Triton role for this year’s parade, which will begin at the Youth Pavilion and end at the San Clemente Pier. The parade will be led by Howie and two mermaids played by returning performers Kelly Garrett, 16, and Kelley Green, 17.

This will be Garrett’s third year being a mermaid in the parade. She is a junior at the Orange County School of the Arts and she also works as a party performer for children’s parties after school. Garrett’s

acting experience has prepared her for her mermaid role in the parade.

“The kids really think you’re the real deal,” Garrett said. “They always say that it’s the best day ever because they got to meet a real mermaid. It’s the cutest.”

Green got her feet wet last year during her first performance as a mermaid and will be returning this year for her second time. The San Juan Hills High School senior has been involved in the Youth Pavilion since she was 8 years old. Green loves acting and entertaining, and she said the Mermaid Parade to be a rewarding experience.

Howie, Garrett and Green all make their costumes for the parade by hand. Howie has been using the same seashell crown and gold trident that he created for his very first appearance in the Ocean Festival 10 years ago.

“Everybody loves seeing King Triton on the beach,” Howie said. “I love seeing the kids so happy and they love seeing me and

Ocean Art Show features diverse mediums from across Southern California

BY DANNY RITZ

Rachelle Liberty, multi-year director of the Ocean Art Show, was excited as she explained how this year’s upcoming event felt “just right.”

The Ocean Art Show is an all things ocean-themed showcase, featuring a diverse range of creative mediums from close to 30 of Southern California’s finest artists.

This year, the Ocean Art Show will be hosting spectacular photography, a variety of oil and watercolor paintings, hand-made artisan crafts such as woodwork and soaps and much, much more. Liberty, a featured artist herself, will be one of a number of returning favorite local artists. These local artists, as well as new exhibitors, have her assured that this year’s show will offer its widest range of high-quality art to date.

taking pictures with me every year.”

King Triton and the mermaids are looking forward to making many children smile during this year’s Mermaid Parade. •

“It’s a one-stop shop to see the talents of Southern California. You can decorate your house… you could buy a gift…you can treat yourself. I really feel like we are putting on the most intimate art show in Southern California. It’s truly a show like no other.”

In a deliberate effort to support that intimate and engaging setting that has become synonymous with the show’s unique identity, Liberty and Ocean Festival have re-centralized the Ocean Art Show back to a single location.

The Ocean Art Show will be held from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday on the grassy knoll at Parque Del Mar, directly below the main parking lot and above the beach tunnel to the northside of the Pier. •

From Texas to San Clemente

Veteran Ocean Fest athlete returns for another year of competition

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS-CAMACHO

Steve Gleason can’t stay away from the water.

The Laguna Beach native began swimming competitively at 7 years old. More than 50 years later, at the age of 65, he’s still suiting up for races across the country. His top contest: San Clemente’s Ocean Festival.

Gleason, who now resides in Dallas, Texas, started masters swimming almost 20 years ago. In the ’90s and living in Thousand Oaks, he competed in the Bud Light series ocean water swims up and down the coast. He discovered Ocean Festival by word of mouth in the early 2000s and has been an unwavering contender each year since—even with roughly 1,400 miles between his current

home and San Clemente.

Sunday is his day. Gleason competes in everything from the morning’s 5K beach run and biathlon to the afternoon one-mile ocean swim, run-swim-run and Splash & Dash Relay.

“It (Ocean Festival) is awesome,” Gleason said. “I love the whole event. The general attitude of the event, the competitors and volunteers. They are super helpful and excited. And they are into it.”

Gleason said the encouragement contestants receive from volunteers, young and old, is unmatched. That support, along with dory boat races, woodie car displays and kids races make Ocean Festival his favorite.

Aside from Ocean Festival, Gleason competes in open water and pool contests coast to coast, including: the Newport Pier to Pier Swim, U.S. Masters Swimming National Championship, La Jolla Rough Water Swim and World Bodysurfing Championship—the latter he won in the 55-64 age category in 2007.

His six decades in the water started with a little brotherly love.

“My brother is five years older than me and I can remember, at 4 or 5 years old, him telling me to jump off the board. I jumped into the pool, he caught me and I just loved the water,” Gleason said.

He was hooked. A former pastor and twodecade car industry veteran, Gleason hopes to continue competing long enough to become the Ocean Festival’s oldest competitor. When he hits the beach, Gleason will be surrounded by his wife, kids and sister. The older brother, Tony, who got him comfortable in the water then on a surfboard at 10 years old, will be cheering him on too. •

Featured Booths & Vendors

Clemente Ocean Festival

29. Athletic Refreshments/Purps

30. Rip Curl

31. San Clemente Times

32. Hobie Surf Shop

33. Main Stage & Awards

34. SUP (Sat) & Groms Rule (Sun) Registration

35. KABC/KLOS van

36. Pancake Breakfast (and tickets)

37. Free Speech

miss the Rubber Duck races! Sunday at 4 p.m.

Schedule of Events

From dory races and surf contests to pancake breakfasts and a beach concert, this year’s Ocean Festival has a little something for everyone

SATURDAY, JULY 15

Stand-up Paddleboard

Surfing Championships

6 a.m. Registration/check-in at surf registration booth, north of the Pier

7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Competitions

Children’s Fishing Clinic and ‘All Ages’ Fishing Derby

6:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Registration, clinic and derby

12:30 p.m. Judging and prizes awarded

*Note: Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult

City Lifeguard Pancake

Breakfast

7 – 11 a.m. North of the Pier, near marine safety

9th Annual “Dolphin Dash”

Kid’s Beach Run (Ages 12 and under)

7:30 – 8:45 a.m. Registration/ check-in at youth pavilion, south of the Pier

9 a.m. ½ mile run for ages 4-6

9:20 a.m. ¾ mile run for ages 7-9

9:40 a.m. 1 mile run for ages 10-12

25th Annual Woodie Car Exhibit

8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Displayed on the San Clemente Pier

Lifeguard Competitions

Main competition area-northside of San Clemente Pier.

9 a.m. Event 1: Surf race –Women

9:15 a.m. Surf race – Men

10:15 a.m. Event 2: Rescue relay (2 person, rescue can and fins) –Open – Heat 1

10:30 a.m. Rescue relay (2 person, rescue can and fins) –Open – Heat 2

10:45 a.m. Event 3: Surf, ski, race (Lifeguard spec) – Women

11 a.m. Surf, ski, race (Lifeguard spec) – Men

11:15 a.m. Event 4: National Doryman’s Association – NDA Race 1

12:15 p.m. Event 5: International Ironwoman (swim, ski, paddle)

12:30 p.m. International Ironman (swim, ski, paddle)

Free Bodysurfing Clinics

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. South of the Pier, next to Youth Pavilion. Hosted by San Clemente Body Surfing Club.

YOUTH PAVILION

All day events: Arts, crafts and games hosted by City of San Clemente Recreation Division. Plus, Ocean Institute, Clif Kid and Hero Nutritional booths.

8 a.m. Ticket sales begin for crafts, games and face painting

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Arts and crafts, game booths (hosted by SC Parks and Recreation Division), and face painting

10 – 11 a.m. Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - demonstration

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. New! Adder’s Fork teen band - performance 12 – 1 p.m. Hula Connectionperformance

1:30 – 2 p.m. New! SoCal Boot Camp - demonstration

Beach Party and Free Concert

5 – 7 p.m. Dinners available through Fisherman’s Restaurant on the beach

6 – 8 p.m. Free beach concert featuring “Soul to Soul,” a Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute band

SUNDAY, JULY 16

1 p.m. Event 6: Paddleboard rescue relay (2 person, 10’6”) –Heat 1

1:15 p.m. Paddleboard rescue relay (2 person, 10’6”) – Heat 2

1:30 p.m. Event 7: National Doryman’s Association – NDA Race 2

2:30 p.m. Event 8: 10’6” Paddleboard sprint - Women

2:45 p.m. 10’6” Paddleboard sprint - Men

3 p.m. Sup surfing awards ceremony (on main stage)

3:30 p.m. Event 9: American Ironman (swim, paddle, dory)

4 p.m. American Ironwoman (run, swim, paddle)

4:15 p.m. San Clemente Body Surfing Club demonstration

4:15 p.m. Event 10: Beach flags –Men (conditions permitting)

4:30 p.m. Beach flags – Women (conditions permitting)

5:30 p.m. Lifeguard events awards ceremony (near main stage)

Ocean Art Show

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Parque Del Mar, overlooking event and south of beach tunnel

Ocean Art Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Parque Del Mar, overlooking event and south of beach tunnel

Beach Events

Main competition area-northside of the San Clemente Pier

8 a.m. Event 11: 5K beach run/ walk

9 a.m. Event 12: Biathlon (1k swim and 5k beach run)

10 a.m. Event 13: 10K ocean paddle race (sup, prone, ski)

10:30 a.m. SCOF beach events (11 and 12) Awards ceremony (main stage)

12 p.m. Event 14: One-mile ocean swim

1:45 p.m. Event 15: Kid’s sup sprint race (9-11, 12-14, boys and girls)

1:55 p.m. Junior sup sprint race (18 and under, boys and girls)

2:05 p.m. Women’s sup sprint race (Open, Sr.)

2:15 p.m. Men’s sup sprint race (Open, Sr.)

2:30 p.m. Event 16: Run – swim – run (200m Run, 300m Swim, 200m Run)

2:45 p.m. S.C. Marine Safety water rescue demonstration

3 p.m. Event 17: Splash and dash relay (runner 100m and swimmer 300m)

3:30 p.m. SCOF Beach Events (13-17) Awards Ceremony (main stage)

11th Annual “Groms Rule” Surf Contest (Boys 14 and under, girls 14 and under)

6 a.m. Registration/check-in at the surf registration booth, north of the Pier

6:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Awards ceremony (main stage)

Sand Sculpture Team Competition

11 a.m. -12 p.m.

6:30 a.m. Registration and sculpting, south of the Pier

1 - 1:30 p.m. Judging/viewing (depending on the tides)

2 p.m. (apx) Awards – Immediately following judging

City Lifeguard Pancake Breakfast

7 – 11 a.m. North of Pier, near marine safety

25th Annual Woodie Car Exhibit

8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Displayed on the Pier

Youth Pavilion

All day events: Arts, crafts and games hosted by City of San Clemente Recreation Division. Plus, Ocean Institute, Clif Kid and Hero Nutritional booths.

8 a.m. Ticket sales begin for crafts, games and face painting

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Arts and crafts, game booths (hosted by SC Parks and Recreation Division), and face painting

9 – 10 a.m. Mermaid parade with King Triton and mermaids 10 – 11 a.m. South Coast Conservatory – performance

11 a.m. – 12 p.m. New! Hard Core Fitness Studio – Zumba demonstration

12:30 – 1:30 p.m. School of Rock “House Band” – music and entertainment

1:30 – 2 p.m. New! Crunch Fitness – ‘pound’ demonstration

25th Annual GreaT Rubber Duck Race

4 p.m. (approximate time) Sponsor ducks are $5 each

Duck, Duck, Golden Goose

These little rubber birds have a lot at stake

BY ERIC HEINZ

Traditionally, rubber duck races get the attention of a lot of smaller children, eager to compete for bragging rights as having the fastest duck.

Ocean Festival’s version of the universally quaint competition takes it to a whole other level. Thousands of ducks are poured into the Pacific Ocean shores and bob their way over waves with owners’ hoping their duck will be the first on shore, about a quarter of a mile toward the Marine Safety building. The first duck wins a grand prize and other ducks are selected as runners up for other rewards.

This year marks the 25th year of the Rubber Duck Races, and Tod Bryant, the coordinator of the Duck Races, said he’s seen people lunge for the ducks, craving to claim ownership of the multicolored counterfeit birds.

In 2008, the duck races raised more than $12,000 for Ocean Festival, selling at a rate of 3.3 ducks per minute for 13 hours over the weekend, according to figures provided by

Bryant. It has raised $40,000 in the last five years.

“One year, someone tossed a small bag of them on a table, and people were scrounging for them as if they were the last ducks on the planet,” Bryant said. “For years, the Ocean Festival did not make a dime at all, and so it was really the efforts of the community that brought these events together.”

Bryant has been the lead coordinator of the races for the last 17 years and understands how important it is to maintain order. He said even though they’re mostly children competing in the races, 600 pairs of eager eyes ready to tackle those first ducks on the shore can be intimidating.

Proceeds from the duck races go toward operations of Ocean Festival, and anything that is left over is put into a fund for local scholarships and programs for children.

“We look for someone who is going to be a marine biology major or something that’s ocean-related,” Bryant said. •

IF YOU GO:

Ocean Festival Duck Races

When: 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 16

Where: Just north of the San Clemente Pier, Marine Safety Division building

Cost: Ducks are $5 each and may be purchased at booths during the weekend of Ocean Festival

BY ERIC HEINZ

Two people were named to receive the 2017 Dorothy Fuller, an honor bestowed by the San Clemente Ocean Festival (SCOF) to some of its most dedicated volunteers.

The award winners were announced at the SCOF sponsors dinner on Thursday, July 6, at Casa Romantica.

Rubber duck races have been an extremely popular event, and for the last 17 years, Tod Bryant, the first recipient of the award, has ensured that hundreds of people participate.

Bryant has also served on the SCOF donations, scholarships and entertainment committees.

“He has sailed from California to East Africa, Mahe, Seychelle Islands and Indian Ocean, plus ran with the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain,” said Maureen Easter, SCOF board member, during the sponsors dinner. “We thank him for his many years of service to the event, his dedication to finding great en-

Kids, Inc.

BY ERIC HEINZ

The Youth Pavilion at Ocean Festival gives people of all ages and abilities something to look forward to every year, while the older kids take to the ocean.

Illiana Farias is taking over as director of the Youth Pavilion this year and said there will be some new features people can anticipate.

“This year we are having new oceaninspired games, arts and crafts for children and young teens and new entertainment,” Farias said.

A native of San Clemente, Farias said

tertainment, and the gathering of over 500 exciting prizes throughout the years.”

The second recipient, Erin Blake, was surprised at the event on Thursday as a recipient. Blake helped grow the Youth Pavilion and was a board member for years. She also started the annual mermaid parade, and she continues to coordinate the children’s Dolphin Dash—all while raising her four children.

“She brought about a reawakening of an integral segment of the SCOF which emphasized the meaning of a community and family event,” Marquez said.

Dorothy Fuller was regarded as the “mother” of the Ocean Festival. According to SCOF officials, she started promoting the event in 1977. Fuller coordinated the event with San Clemente lifeguards and coined the phrase “The Greatest Show on Surf.”

The award began in 2000 when the Ocean Festival recognized Fuller for her years of dedication to the event. •

the Ocean Festival was a major part of her upbringing, and she said she didn’t hesitate when offered the chance to volunteer this year.

“I wanted to give back to my community (with) memories like the ones I had created growing up,” Farias said.

Although the Youth Pavilion has not changed much over the years, Farias said she coordinated with the Ocean Festival board and the city to provide new games, arts, crafts and entertainment.

“I am hoping this will encourage families to bring their children back to the Pavilion to create new experiences,” Farias said, adding the Ocean Institute will provide educational games for children.

Planning the Youth Pavilion takes a lot of time and effort, Farias said, and as soon as this year’s is over she will start planning for next year’s.

“I look forward to seeing new and old faces at this year’s Ocean Festival,” Farias said. •

San Clemente Aquatics team to compete in this year’s Ocean Festival

San Clemente’s inauguration in the 1920’s, named as the “theater to the stage of the sea” by founder Ole Hanson, is a piece of history not forgotten by San Clemente Aquatics Head Coach Goran Westerlund.

“Swimming here is like walking elsewhere. It’s essential,” Westerlund said.

The San Clemente Aquatics team will be a noticeable presence in the 2017 Ocean Festival, having encouraged its team members 11 years and older to participate in the many swimming events, most notably the daunting one-mile ocean swim.

The integration of this formidable crosstraining challenge has been spearheaded largely by Assistant Coach Brittany Vocke. A former collegiate swimmer at George Mason University, as well as All-American Triathlete and All-World recognized Ironman competitor herself, Vocke is excited to see her athletes recognized in one of their town’s own premier events.

“We want to show that we are helping the youth of San Clemente become well-rounded, disciplined and talented athletes, as well as safe community members.”

This emphasis on safety was seconded by Westerlund.

“Swimming is the fundamental base of almost all of the aquatic activities that San Clemente is renowned for across the world,” he said.

The addition of Ocean Fest and its athletic competitions correlates with the positive evolution of San Clemente Aquatics from its founding in 1975.

Around 2010, San Clemente Aquatics received a state-of-the-art Olympic-quality facility with the support of the city of San Clemente, of which they are considered a “senior partner.”

Under Westerlund and his coaching staff, the Club has grown to over 300 members and is a regional competitive powerhouse with multiple nationally ranked swimmers

qualifying for such events as the United States Nationals and Junior Olympics.

Westerlund’s pride was evident when asked to comment concerning San Clemente’s presence in the Southern California competitive sphere, a historic breeding ground for world class swimmers.

“Previously, clubs from surrounding areas such as San Juan Capistrano and Irvine, pool-oriented communities, have been dominant,” said Westerlund. “This is an ocean-centric community; we sort of had to go the other way. We’re thankful for the support of the city and of the community, and we are looking to truly put San Clemente on the map in the swim world.”

As they wrap up their competitive season, Ocean Festival is a localized point where Westerlund, Vocke and their team look to put swimming on a pedestal previously reserved for surfing and water polo.

Be sure to look out for San Clemente Aquatics team members, including 13-year-old Stella Copeland, winner of the 2016 Women’s One-Mile Ocean Swim, as they make an unmistakable splash in this year’s Ocean Festival. They will be hosting a booth, where anyone interested in learning how to participate in, as well as support San Clemente’s premier club swimming experience, is encouraged to stop by and introduce themselves to their team and staff. Offering a wide range of programs for the novice and skilled competitive swimmer alike, as well as appealing to athletes looking to cross-train for other sports, they truly have something for everyone.

Guests are invited to drop in and gain an insider view of San Clemente Aquatics as they practice on Monday through Thursday from 3:30-7 p.m. and 3:30–5:30 p.m. on Friday at their stunning facility at 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa.

For more information and club updates, visit their Facebook page at www.facebook. com/sanclementeaquatics. •

Fresh EMCEES

Sports media personality and Hobie lifestyle athlete are the new voices behind Ocean Festival

BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS-CAMACHO

Be it a passionate, drawn-out “goal” or stoked out, wave-ride narrative, from the pitch to the surf, sports announcers embody their game. Their enthusiasm and ability to encapsulate big, dramatic moments while weaving together stories and casual conversation is an art form.

The voices behind this year’s San Clemente Ocean Festival are perfecting this craft.

Tracey Engelking and Dreu Murin radiate energy. At stand-up paddle board, surf and waterman events across Southern California, airwaves resonate with their contagious excitement—the kind of elation and color festival founder and longtime announcer Charlie Ware said it was time for as he retired last year.

Ware, the Vin Scully of Ocean Festival, provided steady, informative commentary

for 40 years. First from a Pier-top perch at The Fisherman’s Restaurant, then a beachside announcing booth, Ware’s to-the-point, informative-style became a natural part of the festival fold.

His legacy and enduring contribution to Ocean Festival aren’t lost on Engelking, who emceed with Ware the past few festivals, and Murin as the team runner-up for

and she’s made a career of sharing her passion for the ocean with others.

It’s her enthusiasm that landed Engelking her first broadcasting gig. With an announcer out at the San Onofre-located King & Queen of Dogpatch stand-up paddle event in 2009, Engelking got her shot. Her excitement led former Rainbow Sandals event director Barrett Tester to pick her out of the crowd.

She was a natural on the mic and has been announcing surf sports ever since. Murin, a South Lake Tahoe-based media personality, co-hosts the nationally syndicated “Wild Fish Wild Places” show on World Fishing Network and is the afternoon drive DJ on Lake Tahoe’s rock station 97.1 FM. The longtime action sports commentator also calls Sacramento King and Reno Bighorn games, International Surfing Association competitions and Red Bull’s extreme sports events across the country.

hosting duties.

“We’re stepping into some big shoes,” Murin said. “Don’t listen Charlie,” he joked.

In the lead up to their inaugural Ocean Festival, the duo let their excitement flow.

“It feels like a privilege,” said Engelking. “It truly is an honor to be a part of something that speaks to San Clemente. I am lucky to be a part of it.”

Engelking, the marketing and social media manager for Hobie Surf Shops, learned to surf at the San Clemente Pier. A San Clemente resident and Hobie lifestyle athlete, Engelking’s life revolves around the water

San Clemente Ocean Festival is Now Mobile-Friendly

BY ERIC HEINZ

“The San Clemente Ocean Festival may be 41 years old, but its website is brand new and now mobile-friendly,” a release from the Ocean Festival Board of Directors said. “Cruise on over to check it out at www.oceanfestival.org today.”

This year’s schedule of events, map of locations, volunteer opportunities and more are available on the website. Information to register for events is also available.

Check out the site during Ocean Festival, July 15 and 16, at the San Clemente Pier. Also, visit the San Clemente Times website at www.sanclementetimes.com and on Facebook. Check us out on Instagram @s_c_times and Twitter @SCTimesNews for highlights of the festival. •

In recent years, he’s spent more time along the coast announcing surf and SUP contests, like the Mongoose Cup, Pacific Paddle Games and former Battle of the Paddle where he and Engelking first paired up.

“San Clemente and Dana Point have become my second homes,” Murin said. “Every time I am here I am blown away by the beauty and the people … Everyone is so supportive and accepting. It’s such an enlightening experience.”

From lifeguard competitions to the Great Rubber Duck Race, Engelking and Murin will be blending sports knowledge and lighthearted banter with natural ease and excitement throughout the festival. •

BREAKFAST BURRITO FROM LOS PATIOS ON THE MENU

Situated in the cozy confines of Old City San Clemente near Avenida Miramar, Los Patios Mexican Cocina offers an authentic quality and affordability for Mexican cuisine, especially when they open doors at 11 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Friday to Saturday. Operating since 2002, Los Patios Mexican Cocina was founded by Carlos Frutos, a Mexico City, Mexico native who moved to San Clemente as a teenager and attended Saddleback Community College. Most of the meals he and his staff prepare have origins as well as inspirations from the Mexican state of Michoacán de Ocampo. One of their own delicious entrees includes a breakfast burrito. This $6.25 meal is great for brunch and is filled with two scrambled eggs, potatoes, refried beans and ham. Other meat choices for

(Cont. from page 12)

“tame” the oldest daughter. The performance is part of Saddleback College’s summer of theater. Saddleback College. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4500. www.saddleback.edu.

Monday | 17

REMARKABLE REPTILES AT LADERA RANCH LIBRARY

10-11 a.m. Learn about tortoises, lizards and snakes and discover how they can survive in southern California. Registration is not required, walk-ins welcome. The event is free. Ladera Ranch Library. 29551 Sienna Parkway, Ladera Ranch. 949.234.5940.

FREE GUITAR LESSONS

5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.

YOGA IN THE PARK

5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday this summer. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.

COA IMPROV & COMEDY CLUB

6:30-8 p.m. Community Outreach Alliance is partnering with San Clemente High School Theatre Arts Improv Team to keep teens laughing all summer long. The event is every Monday evening. The event is free and kids middle-school through college are welcome. 1050 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. For more information, contact Teri Steel at coa.teristeel@gmail.com.

this particular burrito dish include sausage or bacon. This also includes tortilla chips with guacamole and two citrus slices with lettuce as well as shredded red cabbage. Beyond their exquisite burrito entrees, other specials include Taco Tuesday’s and happy hour on week days between 3-7 p.m.

Los Patios Mexican Cocina 111 West Avenida Palizada, Suite 17, San Clemente, CA 949.492.0162, www.lospatiosrestaurant.com

Tuesday | 18

COOKING CLASS AT ANTOINE’S CAFÉ

6:30-9 p.m. Join the class for a fun night filled with entertainment, learning and food. French chef Carolin Cazaumayou will demonstrate how to cook meals for the whole family. Classes include recipes, dinner and a glass of wine. Each class is $60 plus tax. Antoine’s Café. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.1763. www.antoinescafe.com/ cooking-class-san-clemente.

KARAOKE AT GOODY’S

8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

Wednesday | 19

FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB

2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.

FREE COMEDY AT MOLLY BLOOM’S

8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Molly Bloom’s with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. www.mollybloomspub.com.

SC LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Blake

Senior Dating Has Changed Over the Years

Seventeen years ago, I was sitting in a chair on the set of The Today Show at the NBC studios in New York City, waiting for Matt Lauer to interview me.

By Tom Blake

I could see a few hundred people gathered on the street in front of Rockefeller Center, waving signs and placards. Although I had been on Today two years before, I was still nervous. After all, the show was being broadcasted across the country.

Matt introduced me: “Tom Blake, syndicated columnist and author of the book, Middle Aged and Dating Again, has some great advice for people dating the second and third time around.”

I had been a columnist for six years and had published the book two years before. Matt’s first question: “Do you think the dating rules have changed in your 50s versus in your teens, 20s and 30s?”

I smiled and said, “Some of us haven’t had a date in 30 years—you bet they are different.”

During the 4-minute interview, I attempted to explain how dating had changed and why dating after 50 was so difficult. These five items summarize what Matt and I talked about.

1. Older singles aren’t prepared. After a long-term marriage or relationship, perhaps 30 years or more, our spouse or significant other is gone. We had been preparing to spend our retirement years together, not preparing to date.

2. There aren’t places to go where there are relatively even numbers of single men and women in our age range. The ratio is often four or five to one, women to men, making it difficult for women to meet available men.

3. Baggage. Matt mentioned the word baggage often. There are ex’s, kids, grandkids, fear of getting hurt again, financial issues and an endless number of factors that can bog down a relationship.

4. We’ve aged. On Today, I explained to Matt that age made dating more difficult compared to those younger years he mentioned. We don’t have the energy we once had and dating takes energy. Plus, we’ve added wrinkles and wear and tear on our bodies.

5. Compatibility with a mate is hard to find. As we age, we are more set in our ways. We aren’t going to accept someone to share our life with who doesn’t measure up to our standards or who has vastly different beliefs.

17 years later

Now, 17 years after appearing on that show, I see how senior dating has changed since even then. The basic premises of the five items above remain the same, but the degree of difficulty of each has increased. It’s now dating after 60, 70 and 80. If singles weren’t prepared for dating after 30 years in a relationship, think how unprepared they are now after 50 years in a relationship.

And, as if those ratios of women to men weren’t challenging enough for single women, now the ratios are more like six or seven to one. According to the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Program from 2011 to 2015, as we hit 60 and 70, the number of available single men decreases significantly.

Plus, in 17 years, we’ve aged even more. I saw Matt Lauer on Today last week and he’s aged right along with us. We don’t move like we did at 50. We have aches, pains, bad hips and knees and a myriad of other health issues, making it harder to get off the couch, out of the house and into the dating world.

And one very big factor is technology. Think how the Internet has evolved with social media, dating sites and romance scams. Texting by phone is how some singles communicate. They even break up by text. Technology can be intimidating and overwhelming for seniors. Some don’t even own a computer; some have never sent a text.

So yes, senior dating has changed; it’s more difficult now. But, it’s not impossible. Maybe Matt will have me back on Today and I can update him on what senior singles can do to find a mate.

They need to keep smiling, keep trying, keep moving and be positive and appreciate life. And above all, they should never give up. Miracles can happen.

To view Tom’s Today Show interview with Matt Lauer, visit www.findingloveafter50. com/videos. The interview is on row two, far right, and row three, far left.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50. com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55. com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com. SC

Business Beat

News from San Clemente’s business community

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

New Product

WWW.EBODYBOARDING.COM

1303 Calle Avanzado, San Clemente 949.361.0848, www.eBodyboarding.com www.bodyboardingadventures.com www.kidslider.com

Local residents and former professional bodyboarders Jay and Vicki Reale have recently released an accessible recreation board for the beach.

The Kid Slider is a multi-purpose fun board “perfect for a day at the beach or even in the snow with your family,” a press release from the company stated. “Combined with the available pull strap, just plop the little ones on the Kid Slider

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

and pull them along the water’s edge or along the snow while your kids squeal with delight.”

Jay and Vicki Reale’s ecommerce business, eBodyboarding.com, was founded in San Clemente. The husband and wife team has been selling bodyboarding equipment since 1999.

“The Kid Slider…has handles, cushioned knee pads, it’s made of hard plastic for durability and floats too, so you can even paddle out and catch waves on it like a bodyboard,” Jay said.

“Our plan is to show families that if they live near the water or anywhere that it snows, this is a must-have for their garage,” Vicki said. “Some parents have been happy to keep their kids out of the ocean here in SoCal because of all the shark sightings, so this is the perfect board for the beach if kids don’t want to go in the ocean.”

A bodyboarding camp is running all summer at North Beach by Bodyboarding Adventures. Visit the company’s websites for more information.

San

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Talking Triathlons

plished triathlete and Ironman Kevin Herbert

BY STEVE

t 53 years old, Kevin Herbert is still outracing men half his age.

The accomplished distance runner, triathlete and Ironman has spent the last 17 years pushing his body to the limits and is showing no signs of slowing down. Herbert, a San Clemente resident, competed in the San Diego International Sprint Triathlon on Sunday, June 25 and placed second overall in a field of 400 racers. He has completed over 50 triathlons and seven Ironman races, including four trips to the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii. In the world of swim, bike, run, Herbert is as seasoned as they come. We caught up with Herbert to find out what it takes to finish a multi-discipline race, how he trains and what keeps him motivated.

SCT: What was it about triathlon racing that drew you to it?

Kevin Herbert: I like the fact that it’s three sports and it’s a challenge in that respect. When you have three there is always something different to do in training and you’re always trying to perfect one particular part of each sport, which isn’t easy. But therein lies the challenge. What’s the hardest aspect to manage when training?

KH: You have to figure out how much time you’re going to put in to running, biking and swimming. Then you have to stretch and do strength training. That’s a lot.

Is it hard to enjoy yourself during such a grueling race, like an Ironman?

KH: Halfway through the run is when you start to think ‘this hurts.’ It’s hot, you’re thirsty and your body is cramping. But you’re still like ‘Wow, I’m out here doing this and it’s really cool.’ Once you finish, you’re tired but ecstatic.

Have you grown to like one discipline over another?

KH: I’m always behind on the swim, then I get on the bike and start to progress up the ladder because the run is my strongest. As the race progresses, my strengths are getting better and I’m passing people. That’s a neat part of the challenge.

Are you surprised by your success at 53 years old?

KH: I am. I thought I would continue to do well. My goal is to win my age group at races and I usually do. I’ve been beaten every now and then, which gives me a little incentive. To beat the 20 or 30-yearolds is pretty cool though.

Care to share some training secrets?

KH: I think with age I’ve learned to train smarter and not just go out and put in a bunch of training and think that it’s all going to come together. It’s structuring it and giving myself more rest. I listen to my body a lot more than I used to. I think those little things help.

Are you training for any big upcoming races?

KH: Now I just do the shorter ones. I’m married, I have a son and I just don’t have the time. Plus, I’m 53, I just can’t do Ironman races forever. I do the shorter ones because I don’t have to train as long and I have a life (laughs). SC

SC Triton Rugby Hosts SoCal 7s Tournament

undreds of rugby players traveled to San Clemente on Saturday, July 8 to compete in the inaugural Southern California Youth Rugby Summer 7s tournament. The tournament was put on by the San Clemente Triton Rugby Club, and took place at Shorecliffs Middle School and Jim Johnson Memorial Sports Park. The Triton Rugby Club played host to over 880 rugby players from 68 teams,

New Turf Field Installed at SCHS

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

When the San Clemente High School football team took the field the morning of July 10, they were greeted by a brilliant, newly finished turf surface. The Tritons spent the morning running conditioning drills on the state-of-the-art two-tone green field with red and white trim, which was completed over the weekend.

The old turf at Thalassa Stadium had been in place for 12 years and was the first turf surface installed at an Orange County high school, according to Triton head coach Jaime Ortiz. At the end of the 2017 school year, construction began on tearing the old turf up and replacing it. The cost to replace the field was approximately $1 million, according to the Capistrano Unified School District.

Ortiz said there was a noticeable en-

ergy at the start of Monday’s practice before his players stepped on the field for the first time.

“The kids were excited. It’s great to continue to raise the bar and have the best facilities around,” Ortiz said. “The new turf going down is a sign of some big things happening here, not just for the football program but for all of the sports to enjoy.”

The turf was installed with new padding underneath, and is made up of brand-new rubber. In the past, recycled rubber was used to create turf fields.

The Tritons signature red and black color scheme is prevalent throughout the design. Both end zones have been painted black and the words “San Clemente” and “Tritons” adorn the east and west end zones, respectively. The school’s Triton “T” is emblazoned on the 50-yard line. SC

some coming from as far away as Colorado. In all, over 250 rugby games were played spread out over six fields. The host club had a successful showing at the tournament. The San Clemente Triton Rugby Club’s girls U12, boys U12 novice and boys U16 experienced teams all took first place in their divisions. The club’s boys U10 team placed second and the boys U14 experienced team took third. SC

All-American Goalie

Lauren Brzykcy Ready for New Challenge at UCLA

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Energy, effort, focus and dedication. Those are some of the words San Clemente High School girls soccer coach Lauren Leslie uses to describe what makes Lauren Brzykcy such a unique talent.

The skills Brzykcy possesses were always apparent on the pitch in her stellar four-year career at SCHS, but Leslie believes it is her work ethic and approach to the game that set her apar t.

Brzykcy, a goalie, loves to put in the work, and it was a big reason why she was named to the All-South Coast League first team three times, which includes being named league MVP her junior season.

That signature work ethic also propelled Brzykcy to be named a National Soccer Coaches Association of America high school All-American for the second time in her career this summer. The NSCAA named Brzykcy to the elite 32-member list on Thursday, July 6. Brzykcy was also named an All-American her junior season.

Leslie, a SCHS grad, says Brzykcy will go down as one of the best, if not the best, goalies in school history.

“(Brzykcy) puts 100 percent into every training day. She never backs off,” Leslie said.

Brzykcy is now attacking the challenge of playing at the collegiate level with the same intensity.

Brzykcy is part of a talented incoming freshman class at UCLA, and recently began her first training camp as a member

of the Bruins women’s soccer team.

Before she stepped foot on campus in Westwood, Brzykcy was given a player’s fitness packet full of workouts she was expected to complete when camp got underway. Brzykcy couldn’t wait to get started, so she began completing the workouts on her own training in San Clemente in anticipation.

“Playing in college is going to be 10 times more intense. I’m just getting ready and working 110 percent,” Brzykcy, who was named SCHS female athlete of the year in 2017, said.

Brzykcy is part of a freshman class that is ranked second in the nation by www. topdrawersoccer.com. Brzykcy is joined by her former club soccer teammates and San Juan Hills High School grads Dani Satterwhite and Issy Bellinghausen.

“The people coming in to this class are ridiculous. We’ve all been getting along great in summer and we’re becoming a team,” Brzykcy said. “I think we’ll go far and maybe even win it all.”

The Bruins return Pac-12 All-Freshman goalie Teagan Micah, but Brzykcy said she is looking forward to competing for playing time.

Brzykcy is also adjusting to life as a college student. She is training several times a week with the team and taking summer school courses. She plans on pursuing a degree in physical therapy

UCLA will open its season with an exhibition match against Canada FISU at Drake Stadium on Friday, Aug. 11. SC

San Clemente High GradNight Committee would like to thank all the sponsors that made 2017 GradNight such a huge success.

Albertsons #2509

Albertsons #4563

Avila’s El Ranchito

Baja Fresh

Ball Park Pizza

Barre 3

BeachFire

Bemus Landscape Inc.

Board & Brew

Boomers

Bow Wow Beautiful

Cassano’s Pizza

Catalyst Surf Shop

Chipolte

City of San Clemente

Conrad Realtors, Inc

Coral Thrift

Costco

COVE

Dealer Socket Inc.

Denaults Hardware

Designs by Nature

Drew Brophy

Far West Restaurant

Group,LLC (Wing Stop)

Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach

Fisherman’s Restaurant Foundation Fitness

Fratello’s

Glynn Orthodontics

GNC

Griffin Optometric

Hobie Surf Shop

Howie’s Game Shack Icons Improv In-N-Out

Jack Randall Photography

Jack’s Surfboards

Javier’s

JuJuBe LA Clippers

Mongkut Thai

NickCo Hospitality Group

OC Fair & Event Center

OC Tavern Ocean Festival

Ocean Institute

Ocean View Nails

Oui Boutique

Peets Coffee

Philly’s Best

Rainbow Sandals

Ralph’s #15

Ralph’s #221

Ralph’s #287

RipCurl

Rock Rebel

Sam’s Shoes

San Clemente Antiques & Décor

San Clemente Veterinary Hospital

SC Vet

Sea View Pharmacy

Selma’s Chicago Pizzaria

Shake-It Hair Designs

Sonny’s

Sport’s Clips

Sprout’s

Starbucks

Sundried Tomato

SuperCuts

Surfrider Foundation

Sweet Repeet

Syrens Hair Parlor

Tabby’s Place

Terry Senate

The Habit

The Perfect Ten

The Surfers Journal

Trader Joes

Trestles

San Clemente HighSchool Parents for all their volunteering time and donations for

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

Solstice Heating and Air 2208 El Camino Real, Ste. #1, 949.573.3607, www.solsticehvac.com

APPLIANCES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

ART GALLERIES

San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com

CHIROPRACTIC

Spinal Vitality Integrative Chiropractic

647 Camino de los Mares, Suite 220, 949.616.5470, www.spinalvitality.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

EDITING SERVICES

Perfectly Clear Editing Services

Judi Heidel: 949.281.6364 www.perfectlycleareditingservices.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT

Capistrano Valley Raingutters Scott Williams, 949.542.7750

JEWELRY

Paradise Jewelers

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

LANDSCAPING

Costa Verde Landscape

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

MATTRESSES

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

MORTGAGES

Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage 949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

SC Rider Supply

520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com

MUSIC LESSONS

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

OFFICE FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

PET SERVICES/HOUSE SITTING

2-dogswalking.com Ricky, 949.973.4128

Pet care –Insured & Bonded

Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Contact Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

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

PLUMBING

A to Z Leak Detection 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com

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

Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

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

SC Pool & Spa Works 1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com

RESTAURANTS

Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

SALONS

Salon Bamboo

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

Salon Bleu

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

Syrens Hair Parlor

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

SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com

SWIMMING SCHOOL

Waterbabies Swim School 142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com

TERMITES

Colony Termite Control 1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com

WEBSITE DESIGN

San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

CUSTOM AREA RUGS

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The Drumbeat of Summer

Packed lineups, shark sightings and plenty of south swell kicks summer off with a boom

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

fter a deluge of June gloom and south winds, summer has certainly arrived. Roaring wildfires, scorching temperatures and ample surf have San Clemente and Dana Point in the swing of the season. Last weekend, the first in a trio of swells hit area beaches, and ever ybody and their mother’s uncle sprang into action. By Sunday morning, Salt Creek, Trestles, San Onofre and surrounding spots were overflowing.

“Summer’s definitely here,” joked Trestles regular Mark Stevenson. “I was down at Lowers at first light on Sunday and I think I got four waves in four hours. It was ridiculous. All the usual pros…young kids were out. Kelly Slater showed up on his electric bike with his little dog, Action. I don’t know if any ripple went through unridden. It was full on.”

Lowers has a reputation for being one of the most, if not the most, congested surf spot in California in the summer, and with the forecast beckoning, surfers from San Diego to L.A. braved weekend traffic to score, in the words of Jeff Spicoli, “a few tasty waves.”

“It’s been a pretty bad summer up around L.A. We just don’t get the souths like you guys do down here,” said Los Angeles surfer Mike Jones, who’s normal

WALLACE

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

urfboard builder, designer and innovator Skip Frye once said, “Surfing to me is like playing music; you play different melodies with different boards.” It’s an important point to remember here in South Orange County, where there is no shortage of surf terrain and setups. We have long, playful points, a myriad of sand-bottom beach break options, as well as a few sneaky reefs that get good on the right swell and tide. That means summer’s for sliding and gliding as much as it is

haunt includes the greater Topanga area.

“A couple friends and I decided to head down and try and get a few. It’s pretty crowded, but everyone seems to be getting along alright. I got a few good ones that made it worthwhile.”

One thing that isn’t worthwhile is the line to get into San Onofre. By 8 a.m. on Sunday morning, the line was wrapped entirely around the waiting area on top of the bluff and spilling out into the main road. People reported waiting in line for nearly two hours. There’s not much California State Park officials can do about the issue because there are capacity limits and only so many parking spots to go around—but get this, if you don’t want to waste your time, there isn’t a shortage of other great beaches in the area.

“I saw that line and immediately went somewhere else. With the wait time so long, you could be done surfing somewhere else by the time you’re just getting a spot at San O,” explained Steven Baxter,

ripping, and young Aidan Wallace has embraced the longboard jam to the hilt.

Cut from the cloth of a classical stylist, he’s a distinguished member of the Aliso Niguel High School longboard squad, which took home state titles in men’s and women’s longboarding earlier this year. Enjoying all the options Dana Point and San Clemente have to offer, Wallace has his act at spots like Doheny and San Onofre on lock. His light, agile build gives him the freedom to cross-step up and down the board at will, and with so much other exceptional longboard talent to look up to, we’re excited to see where the next set takes him. SC

who frequents Old Man’s when the weekend traffic isn’t so heavy. “I get it, I mean, San O’s like the dream summer spot. You park right on the beach, the waves are right there, you can barbecue right there. As far as ease of use, it’s hard to beat. But when it’s crowded like that, I’m over it. We live in a beach town, and there are other options.”

Down at Trails on Sunday morning there was no shortage of purported shark sightings. I say this not to scare you because, yes, there have been numerous sighting there recently, but at Trail One it seemed like every 15 minutes dudes were claiming to have seen “a 6-footer” or “a big one just breached.” At one point, a trio of portly gentlemen on soft-tops screamed “Shark!” and bee-lined it for shore. Everyone else in the water just sat watching in perplexed amusement. One of the results of all the great white sightings over the last couple of months is that paranoia has crept into the lineups. While valid, yelling

“Shark!” in a congested lineup is akin to yelling “Fire!” in a theater…you just don’t do it, unless it’s the real deal. (Editor’s note: It’s also not protected under constitutional free speech).

As far as what the Pacific has in store for us, there’s a lot in play. By the time you read this, you’ve probably partaken in some of the juice that Hurricane Eugene provided. Steep-angled hurricane swells are typically better aimed at northern Orange County, especially Newport Point, but Lowers sucks in any south swell and has probably been a pretty good bet. There are also a couple of shots of southern hemi swell on tap that will keep us jumping and jiving. It should keep wave heights in the playful to over head zone through the weekend.

The water’s warm, the waves are up, the great whites are jumping, it’s summertime and the living’s easy. Get out there, just be sure to mind your p’s and q’s, and don’t yell “Shark!” the next time a dolphin swims by. SC

Outlook: Good size Southerly swell continues through the back part of the week then slowly fading through the weekend. Winds are lightest in the early mornings. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook. SURF FORECAST

Thursday: South swell mixes with tropical swell from Eugene and small NW windswell. Better spots are in the shoulder to overhead high (4-7’) zone, while top southern hemi and combo breaks see couple feet overhead high (8’) sets. Light/ variable winds early, shifting light+ onshore the second half of the day.