January 2, 2014 by San Clemente Times

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VOLUME 9, ISSUE 1

A Meeting of Mayors South County leaders discuss regional issues EYE ON SC/PAGE 5 San Juan Capistrano Mayor Sam Allevato, Dana Point Mayor Lisa Bartlett and San Clemente Mayor Tim Bown recently met for lunch with the Picket Fence Media staff to discuss the future of south Orange County. Photo by Brian Park

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North Beach Rooftop Bar Hearing Again Delayed

Citizens Rally for Boys & Girls Club Toy Drive

San Clemente Supercross Racer Set for Pro Debut

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SC LIVING/PAGE 21

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EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Charlie View, a 28-year veteran of municipal planning and development, has been selected to lead San Juan Capistrano’s Development Services Department, City Manager Karen Brust announced in a statement Tuesday, December 17. View comes to San Juan from the city of Brea, where he worked since 2002 as development services director and since 2010 as public works director. View also worked in various management roles in planning and development for the city of Santa Ana for 17 years. “Charlie has the necessary experience and knowledge to lead our Development Services team,” Brust said in the statement. “He’s the perfect addition to the city.” View takes over for Nelson Miller, who served in an interim capacity since Grant Taylor resigned in April. View began his new post Friday, December 20. His starting salary is set at $155,648, including benefits.

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NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOIN G O N I N OU R NE IGH BO R I N G TOWN S

Laguna Beach planning commissioners gave their OK on a portion of the South Coast Water District’s $90 million project to repair a 60-year-old underground tunnel carrying upwards of one million gallons of wastewater a day from Dana Point and South Laguna. The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit and coastal development permit December 11 for a portion of the project lying within Laguna Beach’s local coastal zone, but other areas of the project will need California Coastal Commission approval. The 2-mile tunnel—which the district describes as undersized, deteriorating and unsafe—runs along South Coast Highway from Three Arch Bay to Aliso Beach Park. Plans include widening the tunnel from 6 to 9 feet in diameter and installing a pipeline encased in concrete. The tunnel will also be stabilized with concrete as the current dirt and wooden beam support system is set for replacement.

SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With... 1

… the North Beach Rooftop Bar?

THE LATEST: After a month’s delay, a proposal to open a restaurant and bar that would incorporate dining and music on the roof of the building at 1509 N. El Camino Real, the proposal’s next hearing in front of the City Council will likely be delayed again. City Manager Pall Gudgeirsson said Monday that Gutierrez had not paid further into a fund used by the city to help pay for the work done by city staff on such proposals. Gutierrez has paid into the fund before, Gudgeirsson said, but additional monies had not been deposited, following the delay last month. Gutierrez had requested the delay in December to respond to suggestions he said were made at the last minute by city staff. The project was rejected by the Planning Commission in July over concerns about parking and whether it fit in the neighborhood. Residents and businesses nearby expressed concerns about noise from the establishment. Gutierrez appealed the commission’s ruling to the City Council, which tabled it following discussion in October to allow for additional work to be done by Gutierrez and his team. WHAT’S NEXT: Gudgeirsson said he was unsure whether the lack of a deposit meant the project was no longer being considered. He said the city was unable to reach Gutierrez to determine his intentions. A call to Gutierrez’s business was not returned by press time. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, stay tuned to www.sanclementetimes.com – Jim Shilander

…Spent Fuel Pools?

THE LATEST: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will receive information about San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

the safety of spent nuclear fuel in cooling pools at a hearing at the agency’s Maryland headquarters January 6. The safety of the fuel in the pools at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station was one of the main concerns behind the San Clemente City Council’s recent decision to send a letter to the NRC requesting the removal of nuclear waste from the site of the now-shuttered plant. WHAT’S NEXT: The NRC’s hearing will also cover the potential for removing fuel from the pools more quickly and into dry cask storage units, which are considered less vulnerable to flooding, severe weather and other environmental events. Local advocates for the removal of the fuel have requested such a move be considered.

WHAT’S NEXT: The resolution allows the animal care director to impose restrictions and conditions on owners of potentially dangerous and vicious labeled dogs, including requiring liability insurance upwards of $100,000, sterilization, posting of public warnings, restraints and muzzling. Owners whose pets are deemed dangerous reserve the right to a hearing. FIND OUT MORE: Go to www.sanclementetimes.com. —Andrea Papagianis

FIND OUT MORE: More on the meeting can be found at the agency’s website, www.nrc.gov. – JS

caused minor injuries to humans or seriously injured or killed another animal, twice within 36 months, could be labeled “potentially” dangerous under the county’s definition. Vicious dogs include any canine trained for fighting or that cause severe injury or death to humans.

… a Vicious Dogs Website?

THE LATEST: Orange County will not set up a website for dangerous dogs, much like those for sex-offenders, after supervisors Pat Bates, John Moorlach and Shawn Nelson voiced concerns with the site’s establishment, maintenance and potential to stigmatize pet owners. The board unanimously approved a tiered standard Tuesday for dealing with dogs posing a threat or inflicting harm on humans and other animals, but did not take the website into consideration. Supervisor Todd Spitzer raised concerns in September, leading Ryan Drabek, the county’s animal care director, and his staff to establish new standards. The adopted resolution clarified the county’s definitions of “potentially dangerous” and “vicious” dogs. Dogs that, without incitement, have

… CERT Class?

THE LATEST: San Clemente residents looking to be prepared if an emergency strikes the area are being invited to participate in the city’s Community Emergency Response Team training course. The training offers residents and members of the business community the opportunity to learn basic lifesaving and property protection skills in the aftermath of an emergency, before outside services become available. The program is designed to educate community members to care for themselves and family members and then to become a part of self-sufficient response teams that can assist neighbors during initial phases of emergencies. The CERT program is nationally recognized and utilizes guidelines and training materials from county and state agencies as well as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

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After completing the multi-course training, participants can volunteer with CERT, and are registered as disaster service workers. Team members may be called upon to assist at community events and if and when an emergency strikes. WHAT’S NEXT: Emergency preparedness classes being Tuesday, February 4 and culminate with a course review and disaster simulation Saturday, March 22. Participants will be trained in first aid, CPR, fire suppression, medical operations, light search and rescue, disaster psychology, communications, terrorism awareness and disaster preparedness. FIND OUT MORE: For information on developing a family plan and readying an emergency kit, visit Orange County’s emergency preparedness site at www.readyoc.org. – JS

…Rancho Mission Viejo Schools?

THE LATEST: The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees will consider a proposal to name the first school in the Rancho Mission Viejo development at its meeting January 8. That name however is still to be decided. Trustee Jim Reardon has suggested naming the school for Richard J. O’Neill, after a local philanthropist whose family owned the property being used for the development of more than 14,000 homes. However, the O’Neill family has not yet indicated whether it would accept such an honor. WHAT’S NEXT: Other monikers being considered include naming the school for nearby roads or pastures in the development. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. – JS www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

A Meeting of Mayors Local leaders discuss regional issues By Andrea Papagianis, Brian Park and Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

outh Orange County faces a number of challenges in the coming year and in the decades ahead. Some are basic, like how people living in the area will get from place to place and how they’ll receive affordable water. Other challenges are thornier. How best to manage growth in areas that are largely built out? How should cities balance the desires of residents with the business community? And what roles should local governments take in making these things happen? The newly elected mayors of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano—Lisa Bartlett, Tim Brown and Sam Allevato, respectively—gathered last month with members of the Picket Fence Media staff to discuss these and other issues facing the area. What followed was a candid discussion of the challenges facing all three cities, how each is responding to its own unique issues and how much each could learn from the other. PAVING THE WAY Thousands travel through the area every day on their way to San Diego or Los Angeles along Interstate 5. However, unlike other areas of Orange County, there are no free alternate freeway routes around the area. The county Board of Supervisors recently named a contractor for the completion of Avenida La Pata, between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, which could provide an alternate route between those cities. The project is scheduled to break ground in March. Over the next several years, I-5 will also undergo a major overhaul. As part of an Orange County Transportation Authority south county improvement project, the freeway will be widened and a high-occupancy vehicle lane will be added. Later this year, the project moves south, ultimately culminating in the reconstruction of the Avenida Pico interchange in San Clemente, which will not likely be completed until 2017. San Juan has also seen the effects of construction throughout the last year, as Caltrans continues work on its two-year, $86.2 million project to reconfigure the Ortega Highway interchange. The change was necessitated to brace for projected population growth and increased travel in the coming years. “That interchange was built in 1959, San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

The newly selected mayors from San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, pictured (L to R) Tim Brown, Lisa Bartlett and Sam Allevato, respectively, met with Picket Fence Media staff at Olamendi’s Mexican Restaurant in Capistrano Beach to talk about south Orange County. Photo by Brian Park

when there were 2,000 people living in San Juan Capistrano and probably half of that in Dana Point and maybe 5,000 in San Clemente,” Allevato said. “You had an interchange that was woefully inadequate, but I’ve been on the City Council going on my 10th year and I’ve been dealing with it ever since … just to get the thing built.” Allevato said San Juan’s experience over the last year showed the importance of preparation for the effects construction can have on local businesses. “The City Council two years ago started the Economic Preservation Committee, and we partnered with Caltrans as much as we can, and OCTA as much as they’re able, to help us and all of our businesses,” Allevato said. “We meet every Thursday to design ways of bringing more business downtown and keeping the business downtown.” Caltrans, as a state agency, is limited in what it can do to help cities mitigate the economic effects of road construction. Meanwhile, OCTA can help with outreach efforts, and has, in the last year, encouraged Metrolink riders to come to San Juan for events by offering specials. San Juan also created an emergency ordinance allowing businesses to add extra signage. Despite city efforts, there have still been issues. Allevato highlighted instances where businesses have seen a decrease in patronage and revenues during construction. “There is a lot of planning you can do, a lot of proactive business things you can do to help sustain these folks during construction,” Allevato said. “But it has definitively had an impact on businesses.” Both Brown and Bartlett said they hope their cities learn from San Juan’s experience. “An emergency sign ordinance is intelligent and I’d like to see something similar in San Clemente if it becomes a problem,” Brown said. A proposed extension of the Transportation Corridor Agencies’ extension of the

241 Toll Road has been a major topic of discussion throughout the area in the last decade. In 2013, an extension to just outside San Juan Capistrano was rejected by the San Diego Regional Water Quality Board. The TCA is appealing the decision. The board also voted in 2013 to redo its agreement with the state, allowing the agency to collect tolls until 2053 on its existing roads, but potentially limiting its ability to collect tolls south of its current Oso Parkway terminus. Bartlett chairs the TCA’s Foothill Eastern Transportation Corridor Agency (241) board. She remains an advocate for the extension despite the recent setbacks, citing its necessity with the construction of Rancho Mission Viejo. “That Tesoro extension, that five-anda-half miles from Oso Parkway to Cow Camp Road, is an essential component of the mobility pattern for the entire area,” Bartlett said. “We really need to get that project moving forward.” Allevato, who also sits on the Foothill board, has much the same feeling but cited a need for an alternate route in case of disaster. “I look at it, in a lot of ways, as a public safety issue. We have one major arterial going through south county. We’re the funnel for everything,” he said. “I just feel it is one more artery that has to be opened up, to relieve the congestion.” Brown said his concerns were primarily with what was best for the city. “As much as I love regional transportation questions, is it good for my city?” Brown said. “I don’t think any of us would be happy if they decided to pave over our city center because it was good for the rest of California. That’s what happened in San Clemente in the ’60s. They ran right over the city center and bifurcated our town.” OUTWARD, ONWARD AND UPWARD With the three cities being relatively built out, municipal bodies have turned

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to creative planning strategies to promote growth—both residential and commercial—within each respective city, while striving to preserve each locale’s identity, balancing wants of residents with the financial needs of businesses. In some ways the cities are grappling with the same issues of building upward, parking residents and visitors, conserving historic character and maintaining views, but each have a set of rules completely differing from the next, decidedly guiding the direction its development takes. “Each city is so different,” Brown said. “What works in San Juan would not apply well in San Clemente, and what works in San Clemente won’t apply well in Dana Point, because each was born separately and so differently, in a different time, with different developers and different priorities. “It’s almost as if you hit the city limit and you’re like ‘Great, we share Southern California, but all bets are off in terms of everything else,’ because we are playing the hands we are dealt,” he added. In San Clemente, Avenida Del Mar boasts shops, restaurants and free parking, but downtown growth is limited by small lot sizes and a three-story height restriction. It is something city planners, leaders and residents have spent the last four years debating, as changes are being made to San Clemente’s 20-year planning document. One alteration reflected in the city’s General Plan, which could have council approval by early 2014, is a twostory limitation in the city’s center. “We are all atoning for the sins of the past in a lot of ways,” Brown said. “There was a whole series of planning decisions made in the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s that have had an incredible impact on our quality of life. We have streets with no sidewalks, buildings with no parking and we are just grappling with the reality of what we are dealing with.” While at the forefront of discussion in San Clemente, planning rules were set by Dana Point in its Local Coastal Program and approved by the California Coastal Commission. The LCP grants Dana Point the case-by-case ability to OK projects within the Coastal Zone without further consent. But projects in the Coastal Commission’s appealable jurisdiction—like the county’s Dana Point Harbor revamp, the city’s Town Center revitalization and a development of the Dana Point Headlands— still required state approval, presenting some inherent challenges, Bartlett said. Other large-scale developments, like a proposed five-story hotel near Doheny State Beach, fall just outside the appeals zone, providing a hot topic of conversation for residents and planning commissioners over height limits, massing and just how far a developer can push the envelope. “You need to develop strict standards, strict guidelines and adhere to them,” Allevato said. This past year saw San Juan take a www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC major step toward improving its relations with current and prospective developers. Following a complete overhaul of the citizen committee and commission structure, the City Council held its first-ever public interview process to fill all five Planning Commission seats. During interviews with the potential candidates, council members asked what could be done to make the city’s development review more efficient and eliminate a “Ping-Pong process,” where applicants often took their plans back and forth between the commission and its subgroup, the Design Review Committee. Later, the council voted unanimously to do away with the DRC in an effort to remove at least one more layer of review, simplifying the development process. “In the past we had a design by committee where we actually had people argue about the radius of a curve on a Spanishlooking building,” Allevato said. “And here you have a property owner who has hired all these professionals on an hourly basis in these meetings that is costing them money, it is costing them time, and time is money when you are a builder.” But in all three cities, balancing the monetary wishes of a developer or business with those of preservation, traffic and aesthetics of the community often times collide. “More often than not … If the developer and community are not in sync, you have to figure out a way to reconcile differences,” Brown said. THE WATER STRUGGLE For more than half a century, city and state leaders have been working to protect California’s water supply for future generations. In south Orange County, where the overwhelming majority of municipalities rely on imported water, city leaders and water experts have been keeping a close eye on the goings-on at the state level but have taken their own steps to make sure residents

A regional water partnership completed its first phase of testing to determine the size and scope of a potential desalination plant at Doheny State Beach. Here, wells at the proposed site are being installed. Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Water District of Orange County

San Clemente Times January 2–8, 2014

have a reliable source of fresh water. San Clemente, which imports nearly all of its water from outside sources, has embarked on one of the largest infrastructure projects in the city’s history to expand its recycled water system and treatment facility. The $25 million project will expand the city’s current system out to business parks, located in the ranchlands east of Interstate 5, and is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2014. Dana Point, through the South Coast Water District, is also heavily reliant on imported water to service its more than 33,000 residents. In addition to purchasing water, the SCWD has tapped into San Juan Creek with its own groundwater recovery plant, which produces more than 834,000 gallons of potable water daily, providing for approximately 15 percent of the district’s overall need. Plans to add an additional well to support the plant could boost its daily output to 988,000 gallons, or 18 percent of the supply. Both cities are also part of a regional partnership in the Doheny Desalination Plant, a project to build a facility at Doheny State Beach that could pull in up to 30 million gallons of ocean water a day, treat it and produce about 15 million gallons of potable water, providing for about 25 percent of the area’s needs. San Juan Capistrano was an initial investor in the project, but their future participation is up in the air. Although Metropolitan Water District of Orange County still considers the city a partner, in 2012, San Juan declined to provide funding for the project beyond their initial $660,000 investment. Within the city, the debate over water has been a controversial one that has sparked a lawsuit, a complaint that could lead to a multi-million dollar class-action lawsuit and an ongoing recall effort against Allevato. San Juan Capistrano is one of the few cities in the region with its own water source, through the Groundwater Recovery Plant. At its best, the plant could produce up to 5 million gallons per day, enough to provide half of the city’s needs during the summer and entirely during the winter. “The more water that we can produce locally at a cheaper rate, the better position we’ll be in,” Allevato said. However, save for its first full year of operation in 2006, the plant has failed to produce its intended output and city officials have since scaled back their expectations. The plant’s rising maintenance costs and low output have drawn the criticism of many residents. The city’s water rates, too, have been challenged. The Capistrano Taxpayers Association, a local taxpayers’ rights group, sued the city over its tiered rate structure in August 2012. The group has long argued that importing water through MWDOC would be cheaper for the city and its ratepayers.

In August, an Orange County Superior Court judge ruled in favor of the CTA and declared San Juan’s water rates illegal because they violated Proposition 218, state law that requires rates to be relative to the cost of service. The city has since appealed the decision, and statewide, many cities and water agencies that also used tiered water rates are keeping a close eye on the case. FUTURE GOVERNANCE FOR RANCHO MISSION VIEJO

Residents have begun moving into Sendero, the first of five villages in the 14,000 home Rancho Mission Viejo community, located east of San Juan Capistrano. Photo by Brian Park

Residents have moved into the first of Rancho Mission Viejo’s five villages that when complete, with more than 14,000 homes, will rival the size of Rancho Santa Margarita. The developers behind Mission Viejo, Santa Margarita and the unincorporated Ladera Ranch and Las Flores communities are on what they’ve dubbed their “last ride,” building up nearly 6,000 acres of land east of San Juan. While homes in the development’s first village are being occupied, the rest of Rancho Mission Viejo will be built out over the next 20 to 25 years. But questions surrounding the area’s governance, accessibility and educational facilities are being asked sooner, rather than later. When it comes to the area’s governance, decisions regarding Rancho Mission Viejo’s options are only just beginning. The Local Agency Formation Commission, established 50 years ago by the state, handles boundary changes, including incorporations and annexations of cities and special districts. Orange County’s LAFCO board is comprised of several local officials, including supervisors Pat Bates, Jim Moorlach and Todd Spitzer, but works independently of the county. While the commissioners have begun meeting with local governments and stakeholders, Carolyn Emery, LAFCO’s executive officer, said the commission prefers incorporation. But incorporating cities has become more difficult as state funding for new communities has all but gone away. A 2011 state law shifted vehicle license fees providing a financial boost to new cities toward law enforcement grants, making the incorporation process more difficult, according to Emery.

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However preemptive they may be, south Orange County leaders want to be in on the discussion. Both mayors Allevato and Brown tried their hand at getting on the 11-member board and failed. They hoped another south Orange County representative, in addition to Supervisor Bates, would be present on the board as talks about Rancho Mission Viejo’s annexation or incorporation continued. Currently, a city representative from a town no farther south than Fountain Valley is on the body. “There is no appreciation for the issues of traffic, water, crowding and overcrowding,” Allevato said. “I feel there should be someone on LAFCO that is closer to the epicenter of the growth in this county.” RESTORING TRUST IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT The leaders also broached some basic questions about their own philosophies in governing their city and how to balance the needs of the city and business community. Brown said a general distrust of government had filtered down to the local level, in part because he was sometimes asked to work outside of what he considered his purview. “We as local officials pay the price, because we are the closest to the citizens, and it has been reinforced literally on every level of government,” Brown said. “I feel as if when we begin to push ourselves into arenas where we aren’t welcome, we erode the trust in the areas we really should have our strengths. If we really focus on infrastructure, water, planning and the things that we should do very well … and running an efficient shop, I think you can restore a lot of that trust.” Some of that was born out in the relationship with the business community in each city. Allevato said he’s been asked in the past by developers or property owners about what he, in particular, would like to see. “Obviously, I’m thinking about something that will bring revenue into the city because the city needs that to fix the streets, to turn the water on and to keep the police there,” Allevato said. “I’m not one to be stepping out of my bailiwick, of my expertise.” Bartlett said this is something every leader needs to think about when it came to the economic impacts in their cities and balancing that with the desires of residents. “If businesses want to come into town and they’re being overregulated … they will take their business and go elsewhere,” Bartlett said. “It’s incumbent upon city council members to create a good, healthy business climate—not to over-regulate, to have reasonable building ordinances and to work in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and the business community. That’s what we do in our city and I’m sure in San Juan and San Clemente it’s the same, because every business you lose is a travesty.” SC www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Jim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO

Carley Eissman Foundation to Hold Epilepsy Benefit

Kick Start New Year’s Resolutions with Yoga, Meditation

The Carley Eissman Foundation will present a gala event January 25 in support of its goal of developing a dietary clinic for people with epilepsy. Eissman’s father, Carl, said the family started the foundation following Eissman’s death in 2011 to support finding new ways to help people with epilepsy cope with the illness. The event, which will be held at Aventura Sailing Association at the Dana Point Harbor, 24707 Dana Drive, will benefit the establishment of a dietary clinic designed to benefit the treatment of epilepsy at the University of Southern California Medical Center. Dietary therapy proved effective for Carley during her lifetime, Carl said. The clinic will be the first of its kind on the West Coast. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. The night also includes music from Tyrone Wells as well as live art by Capistrano Beach artist Tom Clark. Those wanting to attend should to send an email to carleyfoundation@gmail.com. Additional information on the event can be found at www.carleyeissmanfoundation.org.

With 2014 in full swing and folks embarking on making a change in the New Year, a San Clemente yoga studio is offering a donations-based class for all, to kickoff resolutions while benefitting a breast cancer organization. On Saturday, January 11, Pure Yoga San Clemente is hosting its first ever San Clemente Yoga Day. The class is free, but donations are encouraged and will be given to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Some 300 yogis—possibly the largest, single yoga class in Orange County, ever— are expected to practice together at the Casino San Clemente, located at 140 Avenida Pico, beginning at 10 a.m. Doors open at 9 a.m. with businesses like Hanson’s Market, Lululemon Athletics and Fitness 19 sponsoring the event and selling merchandise. Organizers hope to make this an annual event, promoting San Clemente as a yoga community. Find out more at 949.492.5048 or emailing kenkrynski@aol.com.

CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, January 2 Golf Course Committee Meeting 7 p.m. San Clemente City Hall Council Chambers. 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

Friday, January 3 Dark Friday City offices closed. For more information, see www.san-clemente.org. Winter Recess Ends Final day of Capistrano Unified School District winter break. For more information, visit www.capousd.org.

Saturday, January 4 Saturday Produce Basket 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Every Saturday get fresh-picked, $20 veggie/fruit baskets at Villagio Giardino at the Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, 949.697.0032, www.vrgreenfarms.com/basket. San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Sunday, January 5 San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar.

Wednesday, January 8 Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting 7 p.m. Group meets on the second Wednesday of the month at the Elks Lodge. 1505 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.498.2489. Bingo 1 p.m. Games for seniors at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.

Thursday, January 9 Sunset Networking Mixer 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Chamber of Commerce event hosted by Residence Inn San Juan Capistrano. Cost $10-$20. 33711 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com. Pajama Storytime 7 p.m.-7:45 p.m. Listen to bedtime stories by the Sunshine Readers at the San Clemente Library. Wear your PJs. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.san-clemente.org. Page 7

EYE ON SC

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

Thursday, December 26 DISTURBANCE Avenida Pico, 600 Block (3:12 a.m.) A barefoot man in his 40s with a shaved head, wearing an Army jacket and dirty jeans, was pounding on the door and refusing to leave.

Wednesday, December 25 DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE Trafalgar Lane, 100 Block (10:57 p.m.) A man called to report his drunken wife for “tearing up the house.” No weapons or illegal drugs were involved.

CITIZEN ASSIST Via Los Tilos, 300 Block (10:28 p.m.) A man told deputies his neighbor put his trashcans too close to his brand new car and he “doesn’t like it.” SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Figueroa, 600 Block (8:39 p.m.) A group of 10- to 14-year-olds was seen running up and down the street ringing doorbells. The caller phoned to report it after finding a pile of dog poop on his front porch. DISTURBANCE-FAMILY DISPUTE Colina Puesta, 6600 Block (3:29 p.m.) A teen threatened to hurt his parents because he didn’t get the presents he wanted for Christmas. RECKLESS DRIVING Avenida Talega/Avenida Vista Hermosa (3:30 p.m.) A white Audi and a black Mustang were seen drag racing on Avenida Talega. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE A 20- to 30-year-old shirtless man with “scraggly” brown hair and a beard was seen carving into the bluff on the beach trail between The Hole and Lost Winds. He was also observed running to the train tracks carrying a piece of glass. ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON Camino de los Mares, 600 Block (2:36 a.m.) A man was treated after being

“sliced with a knife” at the Bank of America ATM.

Tuesday, December 24 CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Presidio, 100 Block (2:06 p.m.) A man called asking for help taking care of a parking ticket he received but then lost. He demanded to speak with a deputy. A check of previous call history from the man revealed he had previously threatened to commit “suicide by cop.” DRUNK IN PUBLIC El Camino Real, 1600 Block (12:40 p.m.) A drunken, naked man was refusing to leave the Best Western hotel at checkout. The subject was transported to a nearby hospital for possible alcohol poisoning. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Victoria/El Camino Real (12:26 a.m.) A man called to report four males loitering in the parking lot, running around and acting strangely. When the dispatcher tried to get more information, the caller said, “If you don’t want to send a car, then don’t,” and then hung up.

Sunday, December 22 DISTURBANCE/FAMILY DISPUTE Via Presa, 600 Block (8:47 p.m.) A man called to report his brother for trying to hit him with a baseball bat.

FOUND CHILDREN Camino de los Mares, 600 Block (6:08 p.m.) Deputies received a call at 6:08 p.m. regarding two girls, aged 2 and 3 years old, who were found alone in the parking lot. Deputies had contact with the mother at 6:13 p.m. The mother and children were reunited at 6:31 p.m.

Saturday, December 21 SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Camino de los Mares, 600 Block (8:30 p.m.) A store employee reported two men and one woman who “looked like crack heads” parked in a green Ford pickup truck outside the store. The caller said one of the men, in his 40s with short dark hair, was a customer who had been upset while inside the store and made a comment about robbing it. The subject also asked the employee what would happen if they pretended to rob the store. DRUNK IN PUBLIC Calle Canasta, 600 Block (6:16 p.m.) A woman reported people hanging around outside drinking and peeing in her trash cans. DISTURBANCE Via Barracuda, 700 Block (1:19 a.m.) Two drunken Marines were wrestling and “choking each other out.” The caller said there was a 2-year-old child present and the wife of one of the men was trying to break it up. Both men had been drinking.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com

PRINT AND ONLINE

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San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 1. The SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Quinn Conway, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell, Tim Trent

Group Senior Editor > Andrea Swayne City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander

GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths by Jim Kempton

2014: Start the Resolutions Later Consider a new time, not so far off, for resolutions

ew Year’s has become the accepted time to make our regular annual good resolutions. The next week, however may be a much better time to actually put them in practice. When we were young it was a thrill to be allowed to stay up late on New Year’s Eve. By drinking age it was the excuse to go a little overboard once a year. Now people have “New York New Years” which celebrates the New Year on Eastern Standard Time and is over by 9 p.m. I’m attending two of them myself this year. And I will still have trouble getting up early to begin all those resolutions. If you don’t like unsuccessful resolutions, here’s an easy one for January 1: The top New Year’s resolution nationwide is to “spend more time with family and friends.” More than 50 percent of Ameri-

cans vow to appreciate loved ones and spend more time with family and friends. So make plans to meet up with “old acquaintances” for an evening of camaraderie at one of the many WAVELENGTHS wonderful restaurants in By Jim Kempton our little town. Or take the family to a special place—one that has personal meaning to each member. You don’t have to get up early to do either one of those. The most commonly broken resolution: to lose weight and get fit. Among the most common: less alcohol consumption, taking trips and vacations, learning a new skill, or getting a better education. Which brings me to my main point—

Letters to the Editor SOME NOT SO GREAT SIGNS YOU LIVE DOWNTOWN SAN CLEMENTE ANNE ROBARE, San Clemente

1. You avoid walking near the corner of Ola Vista and Del Mar early in the morning because of all the barf on the sidewalk. 2. You have a gigantic, old, exhaustbelching produce truck in your neighborhood every evening selling soda and junk food. 3. You can’t get out of your own driveway in the morning to go to work because your neighbor blocked it with their car. 4. You can’t get into your own driveway with a huge load of groceries because your neighbor blocked it with their car. San Clemente Times January 2–8, 2014

5. You are regularly awoken before dawn by the sound of car horns honking on your street. 6. You have fresh piles of steaming dog doo on your lawn every morning, and you don’t own a dog. 7. You can’t sleep on weekends because of all the loud obnoxious parties in your neighborhood. 8. You soon find out the police will do nothing about the loud parties unless you sign a formal complaint and agree to appear in court. 9. Your neighbors have 52 garage sales a year. 10. You always have shopping carts, mattresses, furniture and old televisions dumped on your street. 11. You have very few people living in

I have always thought that New Year’s resolutions should not start on January 1. Consider: most people are probably feeling the effects of drinking too much, eating too much, and spending too much the night before. Most of us are unlikely to bound out of bed that morning to enroll in a class, hit the gym, book a vacation or begin to hone a new skill. And since those are some of the most popular resolutions the majority of us make, we shouldn’t start out handicapped. The second week of January seems like a much more reasonable start date. Now, some would say that approach invites procrastination; that life is short. There is truth in that. Time flies. None-theless, we sit in the pilot seat with our hands on the instruments. And that goes back to my main point again—better to plan a serious flight when there is less fog.

Perhaps the best attitude to embrace on the dawn of a new year is this one from Mark Twain: Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. Jim Kempton is a writer and local San Clemente resident of 30 years. He believes as Ben Franklin did, that we should always be at war with our vices and at peace with our neighbors. 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

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! your neighborhood who actually speak 17. You are well known by the city code To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion English. enforcers because you are constantly in the paper, e-mail us at letters@sanclementetimes. complaining to them. 12. You hear the sound com. Sanconstantly Clemente Times reserves the rightofto edit loud, thumping hipletters hop for music uprespon- 18. You no longer want to live in downreader-submitted lengthdriving and is not andsible down street. for your the claims made or the information written town San Clemente. 13. dreadPlease the 4th July because by You the writers. limitof your letters to 350 words. your neighborhood sounds like a war zone for weeks before and after. WE WANT TO HEAR 14. You must move vehicles off the street four times per month for sweepFROM YOU! ing. Without it your street would quickly To submit a letter to the editor for posbecome a cesspool of waste heading for sible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us the ocean. at letters@sanclementetimes.com. San 15. You are constantly amazed at how Clemente Times reserves the right to edit dozens of people can live in a single reader-submitted letters for length and is triplex. not responsible for the claims made or the 16. You are selling your single family information written by the writers. Please home because you live right next door to limit your letters to 350 words. the triplex.

Page 10

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GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

SC S a n C le m

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THE LIST A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

thursday

GARDEN ANGELS 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Volunteers meet every Thursday in front of the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park to maintain the garden. Bring Gloves, wear close-toed shoes. 949.606.6386, www.goinnative.net.

SATIN BLUES 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

friday

‘I’M BROKE AFTER THE HOLIDAY’ WINE TASTING 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Post-holiday wine tasting at San Clemente Wine Company. Tasting fee includes complimentary cheese plate and chocolate. 212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

GEORGE & THE CLATCH 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Live classic rock tunes and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Tastings $20 for five wines. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com. SHOWOFF! INTERNATIONAL PLAYWRITING FESTIVAL 8 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse presents seven original 10-minute plays onstage with the audience voting for the winner. Tickets $18 (preview), $24 regular shows, and $34 for Gala Night on January 4 with dinner by Mission Grill. 31776 El Camino, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org. HUMMEL’S BLUES HARMONICA BLOWOUT 8 p.m. Mark Hummel performs jazz and harmonica-led blues at The Coach House, also featuring John Mayall. Tickets $30. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. CHARLIE MURPHY 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Comedy show at the Irvine Improv. Shows all weekend. $27. 71 Fortune Drive, Suite 841, Irvine, 949.854.5455, www.improv.com. San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

AT THE MOVIES: ‘THE HOBBIT’ DRAGON DIALOGUE A HIGHLIGHT J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” is 276 pages shorter than “The Lord of the Rings’” appendices, but director Peter Jackson has expanded Tolkien’s slim volume into a nine-hour epic, broken into barely digestible 200-minute chunks and released at yearly intervals. Memory of the previous foray, An Unexpected Journey, has since been reduced to an interminable musical number about drunken dwarves washing dishes. Its sequel, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, is thankfully more memorable, if somewhat overstuffed. Jackson frontloads the movie with action set-pieces, as if afraid of boring his audience. Yet all this hacking and slashing throws into relief just how little the story is moving forward. Jackson has taken a picaresque tale and blown it up to a massive scale, but he can’t sus© 2013 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. And Metro-Goldwyntain interest with orc beheadings alone. It’s not until the two-hour mark, when Mayer Pictures Inc. the titular dragon makes his appearance, that the film achieves the level of grandeur Jackson has been aiming for. Benedict Cumberbatch gives a sly performance as Smaug, and his interactions with Martin Freeman are the highlight of the film. Smaug is a shrewd conversationalist, whose attempts to root out the hobbit, Bilbo Baggins’ intentions in a game of wits are more entertaining than when he inevitably starts breathing fire and the movie resumes feeling like watching someone else play a video game. The film ends on a cliffhanger, meaning it will be another year before we see how the protagonists defeat the dragon and Jackson defeats three hours of third act problems.—Quinn Conway

saturday

START THE YEAR OFF RIGHT HIKE 8 a.m.-10 a.m. Guided morning nature hike at starting at the Ladera Ranch East Trail in The Reserve/ Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Admission $5-$10. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

HOLLYWOOD U2 8 p.m. U2 tribute band at The Coach House, also featuring Wayward Sons and Vitalogy. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. CHAS HAYES 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Live blues and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine. Tastings $20 for five wines. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com. ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. Discover 200 years of San Juan Capistrano architecture on a 90-minute guided walk that includes adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Meet at Verdugo Street. Occurs every Saturday; a $5 donation supports the Friends of the Library. For more info, call 949.489.0736. DANA POINT FARMERS MARKET AND CRAFT FAIR 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, crafted goods, flowers and much more at La Plaza Park in Dana Point every Saturday. 949.248.3500, www.danapoint.org. THE ECOLOGY CENTER GUIDED TOUR 1 p.m. Free, guided tour of the environmental educational center teaching ways you can help create a healthier, more sustainable future. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org. BACKYARD SKILLS: BEESWAX CANDLES 1 p.m.3 p.m. Workshop at the Center for Living Peace to make therapeutic candles and learn more about the significance of bees. Cost $12. 4139 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949.854.5500, www.goodhappens.org. HISTORY OF THE HOT SPRINGS 9:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Meeting and special lecture at Caspers Wilderness Park. Call for more info. Free. 33401 Ortega Highway, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com. PANNING FOR GOLD 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Try your luck at finding gold in a custom-designed trough at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Cost $3, in addition to admission. 26801 Ortega Highway, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com. Page 16

CASPERS PARK ASTRONOMY NIGHT 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Look through telescopes with astronomers at Caspers Wilderness Park. Call for more info. Parking $5. 33401 Ortega Highway, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com.

sunday

SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.– 1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday on Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.

HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR 1 p.m. Meet at the Depot Platform for the Historical Society’s guided tour of San Juan Capistrano. Every Sunday. Cost $2-$4. 949.493.8444, www.sjchistoricalsociety.com. ELIZABETH LAMERS 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. THE SERRA CHAPEL TOUR 11:15 a.m. Tour at the Mission in honor of Father Junipero Serra, who was born 300 years ago this year. Offered Sundays. Admission $6–$9. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com. GOT UKULELE? 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Ukulele players and fans are invited to a Hawaiian music lesson and jam session every Sunday. Call for location and more details. 949.829.2675, www.ekanikapilakakou.com. TOWER OF POWER 7 p.m. Renowned horn-driven funk outfit plays at The Coach House. Tickets $42.50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS CASTING CALL 2 p.m.-5 p.m. The Pageant of the Masters is looking for men, women and children to volunteer as cast members. Try out at Irvine Bowl Park. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3663, www.foapom.com.

monday

COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188,

www.swallowsinn.com. (Cont. on page 19)

www.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 16) TRAIL CLEARING AND WEEDING 7:30 a.m.9:30 a.m. Volunteer at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Call for info and directions. 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

tuesday

HART & SOUL 6 p.m.9 p.m. Enjoy dinner and a night of live music at Montego Restaurant and Bar. 27211 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.2723, www.montegorestaurant.com.

DUSTIN FRANKS 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

wednesday

MIKE HAMILTON 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Live music at The White House. 340 S. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, 949.494.8088. For more information, visit the website at www.whitehouserestaurant.com.

COMMUNITY ART NIGHT 4 p.m.-7 p.m. New event at Bull Taco featuring arts and craft projects for the whole family with artist Lauren Tannehil. Event also features $4 kids meals, beer and wine specials.1527 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.1739.

CHERYL SILVERSTEIN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Vocalist sings jazz, blues and pop standards at OC Tavern. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. FOOD TRUCKS AFTER DARK 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Gourmet food trucks and entertainment at the OC Fair & Events Center. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 EDITOR’S PICK: THE FANTASTICKS 8 p.m. New play debuts at Cabrillo Playhouse, telling the story of a young man and the girl next door. Tickets $20-$25. Shows through February 2. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 SIR MIX-A-LOT 8 p.m. Hip-hop artist at The Coach House. Tickets $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. LUNCH ABOARD THE TITANIC 7 p.m. Captain Don Walsh lectures on the history and exploration of the Titanic at ExplorOcean. RSVP required. Cost $15. 600 E. Bay Avenue, Newport Beach, 949.675.8915, www.explorocean.org. BILLY WATSON AND ROBIN HENKEL 7 p.m.10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. PAJAMA STORYTIME 7 p.m.-7:45 p.m. Listen to bedtime stories by the Sunshine Readers at the San Clemente Library. Wear your PJs. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.san-clemente.org.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 SECOND STAGE STAND-UP 8 p.m. Comedy night at Camino Real Playhouse featuring popular weatherman Fritz Coleman and others. Tickets $15. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m

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

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

Putting Kids on a Path to Health Resident launches program aimed to combat childhood obesity and establish healthy lifestyles for area youth and created The Noble Path Foundation. Juncal and TNPF are dedicated to fighting childhood obesity by improving the health and fitness of youth through motivational n February 2012, San Clemente resident education and exercise. Cindi Juncal enrolled in So Cal Boot Juncal established TNPF after her Camp’s three-month weight loss chalextensive research revealed a lack of treatlenge. Juncal’s determination helped her ment and intervention plans for win the competition that not only kids confronting weight issues. transformed her life, but also put “It’s so preventable,” Juncal her on a path to change the lives said. “That’s what motivates of many of the city’s youth. me. I thought, ‘How do I af“After experiencing firsthand fect change?’ I determined it’s how good health and exercise through awareness.” changed the way I felt and Her methodology for fighting changed my interaction with the obesity epidemic unfolds in others, it seemed like a natural three phases. The first phase transition to take my passion focuses primarily on awareness for fitness and health to kids. and education. Juncal leads semiI love working with kids,” said Cindi Juncal. nars spotlighting nutrition. Juncal, a married mother of two Courtesy photo “I want to tell as many kids young adults, who earned her as possible about the dangers of hidden bachelor’s degree and special education sugars and processed foods,” she said. “If certificate at the University of San Diego. there were a news article that said someBy late 2012 the energetic Juncal jumped thing in our water is killing our kids there from SCBC participant to fitness coach By Shelley Murphy San Clemente Times

Young residents of the Mendocino Apartments get moving. Courtesy photo

San Clemente Times January 2–8, 2014

Cindi Juncal and trainers from So Cal Boot Camp help get kids moving and talking about good nutrition during a family night at the Mendocino Apartments in San Clemente. Courtesy photo

would be uproar. That’s exactly what’s happening with sugar. It is liquid poison.” Educational seminars tackle nutrition topics and exciting exercise events promote fitness. Earlier this year Juncal hosted a family fun night at Talega’s Mendocino Apartments, and recently she and a group of San Clemente kids participated in both Irvine’s health and fitness Jamboree Day and its Run or Dye 5K race. If the obesity epidemic continues, Juncal said, “Evidence suggests that today’s kids could likely be the first generation who won’t outlive their parents. It’s frightening.” Next month, as Capistrano Unified School District schools prepare students to participate in the Presidential Youth Fitness Program, at Vista del Mar Middle School, Principal Sandy McKinney along with physical education teachers will begin piloting Juncal’s nine-week challenge program. The event kicks off with day and evening nutrition assemblies to encourage parents and family members to participate along with their middle school students. “Once a week, our certified SCBC train-

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ers will conduct workouts, relays, conditioning and strength training during each physical education period,” said Juncal. The positive approach of the challenge champions the progress of each physical education class and tracks gains in tests of endurance, strength and agility. “Ideally, I’d love to have a program in every school and run a fun-spirited competition between the schools,” she said. Phases two and three of Juncal’s plan include establishing independent locations for fitness training, nutritional counseling, after school programs and residential summer camps. TNPF, a nonprofit organization, also provides need-based full or partial scholarships. “The goal is to ensure every child, regardless of race or income, has access to services to improve their lifestyle,” Juncal said. “I believe adopting a healthy lifestyle through exercise and sound nutrition can put one on the right path toward greater happiness and self-confidence.” For more information, visit The Noble Path Foundation on Facebook. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING

Community Effort Supports Toy Drive Santa, San Clemente, Come Through For Boys & Girls Club Text and photos by Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

an Clemente came through for the Boys & Girls Club’s annual Christmas celebration December 23. The club did not receive its expected annual charitable donation from a large regional toy drive, which has in the past supplied the event, and it appeared, staff said, that the event would either have to be canceled or postponed. With less than a week before the event, staff contacted members of the community to get the word out for the need for toys. Athletic Director Matt Clark said the club’s staff began putting the word out on social media as well as reaching out to outlets like the SC Times on Tuesday, December 17. By Friday, the effort had paid off. “In three days the community rallied,” Clark said. “It was like A Miracle on 34th Street.” The club annually distributes toys for 300 to 500 children, to both club members and nonmembers. SC

Clockwise from the top left: San Clemente rallied to provide a room full of gifts to the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area’s annual Christmas Event. Damian Ramirez gets a hug from Santa before the gift distribution. Pelva Martinez paints the face of Ruby Vega, part of the Boys & Girls Club’s annual Christmas celebration December 23. Zowie Greenwood shows appreciation to Santa Claus for her gifts.

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING

LANDSCAPING

Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Costa Verde Landscape License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com

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

949.492.5589

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT 949.361.9656

MANAGEMENT - HOA AMMCOR 949.661.7767 910 Calle Negocio, Ste. 200, www.AMMCOR.com

APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS

MATTRESSES

ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

ART GALLERIES

MOLD REMOVAL

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

BOOKS

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

MORTGAGES

Village Books 949.492.1114 Brian Wiechman, 949.533.9209 99 Avenida Serra, www.DowntownSanClemente.com Equity Coast Mortgage, a division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage, www.equitycoastmortgage.com CHOCOLATE/CANDY Lure of Chocolate, Gourmet Foods & Gift www.LureofChocolate.com 949.439.1773 Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 949.369.1052 99 Avenida Del Mar, www.schmidschocolate.com

COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

949.350.4692 Kevin

CONCRETE Costa Verde Landscape License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27), www.costaverdelandscaping.com

949.361.9656

DENTISTS Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 949.493.9311 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, www.drericjohnson.com Kristen Ritzau DDS 949.498.4110 122 Avenida Cabrillo, www.KristenRitzauDDS.com

ELECTRICAL Arcadia Electric www.arcadiaelectric.com

“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax www.sandyandrich.com

949.293.3236

Café Calypso SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521 114 Avenida Del Mar #4 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com

Danman’s Music School www.danmans.com

949.496.6556

Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com

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

949.366.9386

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

MUSIC LESSONS

949.492.5589

PAINTING KC Painting & Decorating 949.388.6829 3349 Paseo Halcon, www.bringcolorintoyourlife.com

PEST CONTROL

949.492.5589

HAIR SALONS 949.498.6245

HEATING Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

HOME DÉCOR 949.492.5589

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7. GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY. Call at Debra Wells at 949.589.0892 or dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

RESTAURANTS

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

Jim Thomas Roofing 162 Calle de Industrias

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SALONS Salon Bamboo 949.361.3348 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, www.salonbamboo.com Salon Bleu 949.366.2060 207 S. El Camino Real, www.scsalonbleu.com Sanctuary Salon & Spa 949.429.5802 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com

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FOR SALE BRAND NAME NEW MATTRESSES FACTORY DIRECT/SEALED! PillowTops beginning at $150. NO credit check financing. 90 days same as cash. Take home today for $40 upon approval. 949-842-9994 BED FRAME Metal bed frame. Adjustable for all sizes. $35/obo. New condition. 949.533.9761 MENS SMALL WETSUIT Mens Rip Curl Wetsuit, short-arm, full suit. New condition. Size small $85. Call or text 949.533.9761. GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

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San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

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SPORTS

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

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SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

Tritons Youth Teams Shine in Holiday Tournaments While the varsity team is off defending their CIF-SS Division 1 title, the lower levels of the San Clemente High School boys soccer program have enjoyed success The San Clemente boys soccer JV team is 16-0-1 on the season. Courtesy photo in the preseason. The Tritons junior varsity team has yet to lose a game this season and is off to a 16-0-1 start. The junior varsity team has won all three tournaments they have entered, including the Marina Tournament, the Huntington Beach Tournament and, most recently, the Mustangs Cup, which they won on December 28. The San Clemente boys frosh/soph team won the Capistrano Valley Tournament on December 23. The Tritons defeated host team Capistrano Valley 3-2 in the The San Clemente boys soccer frosh/soph team won the Capistrano finals to pick up their first tournament win of the year. Valley Tournament on December 23. Courtesy photo

Q&A With Local Supercross Racer Brian Burns By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times

rian Burns has been riding dirt bikes since the age of 10. He’s suffered broken bones and broken bikes. He’s had plenty of wins but also plenty of disappointing losses. But all of those ups and downs have been a result of his constant pursuit of becoming a professional racer. That’s why January 4 will be a date that Burns, 20, will always remember. Under the bright lights of Anaheim Stadium, he will attempt to qualify for his first professional American Motorcyclist Association Supercross event. Burns has spent the last year touring the country on the AMA Arenacross circuit, attempting to accrue enough points to qualify for his professional Supercross license. Long cross-country treks to small towns across America became his life, and now Burns is stepping into the big time. After earning his professional license he was offered a spot on Rockwell Fire Police MX, a pro racing team. The San Clemente Times caught up with Burns just days before his big qualifying race in Anaheim to talk about his journey, what he expects in the coming months and what it means to see his dreams become reality. San Clemente Times: It seems like you have been really busy this year, what has the experience been like? You’ve covered a lot of ground. Brian Burns: Yes, definitely. I was in a different city every weekend. I don’t remember all of them, it was all just blended together so much. I was in Tulsa, Wichita, Kansas City … every weekend was a different place. The Arenacross circuit was a good way to get a foot in the door, get points and good experience. SCT: All that time and travel paid off when you got picked up by a pro racing team. What has that done for your career? San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

San Clemente Supercross racer Brian Burns will compete in the AMA Supercross event at Angel Stadium on January 4. Photo by Chelsea Stratso

BB: It helps out so much, especially with this being my first year. In Supercross there are a lot of little tricks that people, even at my level, don’t realize until you get there. Being on a team helps me know what’s going on. They help with things like having exact tire pressures and tire types. It’s all so precise. So they’ve been helping with a lot of those things, which is cool. SCT: You decided to try and become a pro right out of high school. How hard was it to get to the point you’re at now? BB: Trying to do that is tough when you don’t have money to start out with. You can’t really just go from nothing, get a dirt bike, and magically race and make money. I’m at that stage where I’m not making money but I’m at that point where I can start. I’ve put every dollar I’ve ever had into racing. Every extra minute I had, I would go train, go to the gym, the track and remember to eat healthy. A lot of things go into motocross that people don’t realize. A lot of people think you just twist

the throttle and go. It’s been really hard. With that said, it led me into the summer. When summer came along, I didn’t

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qualify for a few things and didn’t ride the way I wanted to. I was sick, tired and beat up so I decided to take some time off. I wanted to quit and I did for a few months. But once I did get back into it, I knew I missed it and didn’t want to give up on something I’d trained so hard for. SCT: What’s the biggest difference between Arenacross and Supercross? BB: In Supercross there is a bigger population, and it’s all over the USA. There are also riders from all over the world and they’re the fastest racers. The competition is definitely stiffer. Everyone’s more professional and it’s definitely a more spectacular event. It’s as big as it gets. SCT: So are you nervous for Saturday’s qualifying heats? BB: I’m super nervous. I’m nervous just talking to you (laughs). But I’ll have a lot of my family and friends coming out … I don’t know if I’ll even qualify. I have to get top-40 (out of 80 competitors). Thankfully I’ve been training a lot and picked up a lot of speed. I feel pretty good about it, but it’s still very hard to do. SC

SCOR E BOAR D SOCCER The San Clemente based Orange Country Water Polo Club 12U team ensured a happy holiday weekend by claiming the KAP 7 Holiday Cup on December 22. The team bested the field at the Woolet Aquatics Center in Irvine, going 4-0 over the twoday stretch. OCWPC outscored their opponents by a convincing margin. In four games, OCWPC scored 49 goals and conceded only 19. The OCWPC 12U team includes: Cooper Haddad, Marshall Eichenauer, Riley Kraatz, Adler Zachary, Justin Edward, Luke Malecka, Sam Moore, Joe Callari, Cooper Sutton, and Clark Hill, led by Coach Milos Skaljac. We want to run your scores, results and announcements in “Scoreboard.” E-mail sports@sanclementetimes.com, fax 949.388.9977, mail or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m.

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS Clemente girls water polo team to an 8-7 upset win over Los Alamitos, the No. 4 ranked team in the latest CIF-SS Division 1 coaches’ poll, on December 28. Brigette Kimbrough and Makenna Smith each scored three times in the win and pushed the Tritons (4-4) to .500 on the season. The match marked San Clemente’s biggest win in what has been a tough preseason schedule. The Tritons lost to South Coast League rival El Toro 7-6 on December 14 in a nonleague match before falling to No. 2 Mater Dei 13-7 on December 17. The Tritons will round out preseason play with a match against top ranked Laguna Beach on December 31 at Capistrano Valley High before entering league play.

Triton Report By Steve Breazeale

Follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports for in-game updates, news and more all season long. TRITONS GIRLS SOCCER REACHES FINALS OF EXCALIBUR TOURNEY After grinding out a 3-2 win over Iolani of Hawaii in the semifinals of the Excalibur Tournament, the San Clemente girls soccer team found themselves in yet another close match in the tournament finals on December 28. San Clemente’s Natalie Higgins netted a first-half goal against Los Osos, giving the Tritons (10-2-2) the lead, but Los Osos responded with a second half equalizer by way of an Aubrielle Camacho goal to send the game into penalties. Los Osos was able to best the Tritons 5-4 in penalty kicks and claim the tournament hardware. The Tritons went 4-1 in the tournament and reached the finals because of a late, second half surge in the game against Iolani. San Clemente entered the second half down 2-1 and rallied back with goals from Natalie Higgins and Samara Bahu,

San Clemente’s Samara Bahu scored the deciding goal in the Tritons girls soccer team’s 3-2 win in the semifinals of the Foothill Excalibur Tournament. Photo by Steve Breazeale

who struck home the deciding goal. A South Coast League match against rival Dana Hills on January 9 now awaits the Tritons who, as of December 16, were ranked No. 5 in the CIF-SS Division 1 coaches’ poll. GIRLS WATER POLO UPSETS LOS ALAMITOS Six second-half goals lifted the San

DARNOLD RETURNS TO TRITONS LINEUP In his first game back from a foot injury that sidelined him for the team’s first 10 games of the season, junior forward Sam Darnold dropped 22 points in his return to the San Clemente boys basketball team’s lineup. Darnold, the reigning Sea View League MVP, led all scorers in the Tritons 81-66 win over Eastlake on December 26. However, the team’s momentum was halted in their next game at the EstanciaTustin Tournament, as the Tritons (6-7) fell to Western, 57-34. The 34 points tallied by the Tritons offense was their lowest output to date. San Clemente managed to

bounce back with a 73-55 win over LACES on December 28. The Tritons lineup improved with the return of Darnold and should benefit with the addition of transfer Gage Shelmidine, who is set to return in early January. TRITONS GIRLS HOOPS COMPETE IN VEGAS The San Clemente girls basketball team traveled to take part in the Las Vegas Holiday Classic Tournament and went 1-3 as of December 30. The Tritons (7-4) were set to play Liberty of Henderson Nevada on December 30. Results were not available at press time. The Tritons lost to Foothill, Reno and Arbor View in the tournament. Their lone win came against Santa Fe on December 27. TRITONS BOYS SOCCER LOOKS FOR PERFECTION IN OCEANSIDE The San Clemente boys soccer team was set to play San Pasqual in the finals of the So Cal High School Classic Showcase-West at Oceanside High School on December 30. Results were not available at press time. The Tritons (10-0-1) paved their way to the finals by defeating an impressive list of opponents, including Great Oak and Brophy College Prep in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively. Senior Bryce Kaminski scored a goal in each of the Tritons first four matches at the tournament.

SC SURF

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

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GROM OF THE WEEK ALLYSON HEINEMEYER Age: 16, Dana Hills High School

Allyson Heinemeyer is a junior in her third year on the school surf team and her first year on the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association team. A surfer since the age of 7, Allyson has since developed into an accomplished and stylish wave rider. So far this season she’s earned a few first- and second-place finishes at high school events. As a part of the DLSA team, she was recently recognized as the top U18 competitor. In the Western Surfing Association Championship Tour series, her most recent results were a second-place finish in November in San Diego and in December, a third-place at the San Clemente Pier in Girls U18 Longboard. In school she is an ‘A’ and ‘B’ student. “I pay attention in class and am a pretty diligent Allyson Heinemeyer. Photo by Sheri worker when it comes to all of my classes, but my favorites are art and surfing. There’s nothing Crummer/seasister.com better than waking up each morning and starting my day at Creek,” she said. “And I love being creative in art class, especially painting and charcoal drawings.” Allyson is considering capitalizing on her love of art and sewing by studying fashion design or art in college. She is also planning on delving into professional level surf competition this year but says no matter what happens, free surfing will always be a part of her life. “I like it because you’re one with nature and there’s no ‘proper’ way of surfing, no set rules. You can do what you want, what you feel. It’s just a beautiful sport.” —Andrea Swayne

Local Surfers ‘Batting 500’

RESULTS NSSA Open, Event No. 6, December 21-22, Cardiff-bythe-Sea, Seaside Reef MEN: 1. Jordan Kudla, San Clemente,15.70; 2. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente, 13.67; 3. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente, 7.17; 4. Colt Ward, San Clemente, 3.63. JUNIORS: 1. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente, 14.50; 2. Micky Clarke, Ventura, 12.70; 3. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente, 12.10; 4. Nolan Rapoza, Gardena, 10.67. BOYS: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas, 12.84; 2. Noah Hill, Malibu, 9.84; 3. Kade Matson, San Clemente, 7.33; 4. Jett Schilling, San Clemente, 6.47. MINI GROMS: 1. Jett Schilling, San Clemente, 14.83; 2. Levi Slawson, Encinitas, 10.17; 3. Taj Lindblad, San Clemente, 5.86; 4. Connor Marshall, Encinitas, 4.80. WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, San Clemente, 11.17; 2. Juli Hernandez, Huntington Beach, 8.67; 3. Kylie Loveland, Carlsbad, 7.60; 4. Samantha Lamirand, Cardiff, 7.50. GIRLS: 1. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla, 9.17; 2. Alexxa Elseewi, San Clemente, 7.47; 3. Kiersten Noonan, Encinitas, 5.84; 4. Sidney Johnson, Carlsbad, 5.10. PERFORMERS OF THE EVENT: Jordan Kudla, Kei Kobayashi, Jett Schilling.

Half the finalists at the Seaside Reef NSSA event were San Clemente residents By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

ocal surfers lent a new meaning to the term “home run” at the last National Scholastic Surfing Association’s Open division event at Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Fifty percent of the finals were dominated by talented hometown athletes. San Clemente-based surfers won four of the six divisions at the December 21-22, Seaside Reef contest and claimed half of the 24 total finalist spots. Jett Schilling, 10, took his sixth win of the season to add to his undefeated record in the Mini Grom division. With a twowave score of 14.83 (out of 20), Schilling sailed past runner-up Levi Slauson’s 10.17. Schilling said the 2- to 4-foot clean waves made the entire event a fun time, even though the wind picked up in the finals. “The wind made it a little harder to get a

UPCOMING EVENTS Jett Schilling of San Clemente kept his undefeated record intact, winning the Mini Grom division at the NSSA Open Seaside Reef event December 21-22. Photo by Kurt Steinmetz

wave so I just tried to pick the best waves, go to the corner where it was better and surf on the inside more. I just did the best I could and I have a lot of support. I couldn’t do this without my parents, my sponsors, Cole Surfboards, Rip Curl and Electric, Kevyn Dean at DSC and my brother Malik who takes me surfing all the time,” Schilling said. “It feels super good because I really want to stay unde-

Jordan Kudla of San Clemente won his first NSSA Open event December 21-22 at Seaside Reef with a highflying aerial performance. Photo by Kurt Steinmetz

San Clemente Times January 2-8, 2014

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

feated. I plan to keep on surfing every day and working hard and eating healthy so I can keep getting better and be the best I can be.” Schilling was one of two who made the finals in two divisions, with a fourth-place finish in the Boys division. Kei Kobayashi was also a double finalist, taking third in both Men and Juniors. Another stand-out performance was delivered by Jordan Kudla, 17, who won his first NSSA Open event in the Men’s division. Kudla’s high-flying final impressed the judges and the crowd and earned him an impressive score of 15.70. The all-San Clemente heat was stacked with some of the NSSA’s top men—runner-up Kevin Schulz (13.67), third place finisher Kobayashi (7.17) and Colton Ward in fourth with a score of 3.63. NSSA officials called Kudla’s aerial display a “breakout performance” and honored him as the association’s Surfer of the Week. The next NSSA Open contest, Event No. 7, is set for February 1-2 at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. For more information, see www.nssa.org. SC

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January 4-5: WSA Championship Tour, Event No. 6, Oceanside Harbor, South Jetty January 11-12: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 4, Santa Cruz, Steamer Lane January 11: SSS, OC Middle School and High School, Event No. 3, San Clemente, Pier February 1-2: NSSA Open, Event No. 7, Dana Point, Salt Creek February 8: SSS, OC Middle School and High School, Event No. 4, Oceanside, Pier February 8: NSSA Explorer, Event No. 8, Huntington Beach, 9th Street February 8-9: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 5, San Onofre State Park, Upper Trestles

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 59-61 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 8-12’+ Fair Catalina: 15-20’ Fair Immediate: A modest, fading west-northwest swell prevails on Thursday. Better breaks run mainly knee-waist high (2-3’), with some better chest high (3’+) sets for standout winter focal points. Conditions are looking favorable with light offshore flow in the morning, giving way to a sea-breeze in the afternoon. Size is down slightly Friday, as conditions fall apart some with possible onshore flow. Long Range Outlook: Small, steep-angled northwest groundswell moves in for the weekend, but passes by most breaks. Winds are ok, but not ideal, in the mornings. Check out Surfline.com for all the details!