May 28, 2015

EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week

CUSD Closed Session Exceeds Four Hours with No Action

THE LATEST: The people who remained through the four-hour duration of the Capistrano Unified School District closed session showed outrage when the Board of Trustees returned with no reportable action.

More than 350 people attended the closed session meeting Thursday, May 21 at the district’s headquarters in San Juan Capistrano, with 26 people signing up to speak to the board beforehand—a significant portion of whom were students.

Because of the outpour of people in attendance, the trustees voted to waive the overall time limit for speakers, which is usually 20 minutes.

The larger-than-normal attendance is due to the movement of people opposed to former San Clemente High School Principal Mike Halt’s dismissal last month. Following the no-action report, people chanted “recall” in the meeting room.

On Monday, May 25, Trustee John Alpay of District 3, which represents San Clemente High School, stated on his political Facebook page his support of reinstating Halt. Alpay had previously expressed his position in a letter to the San Clemente Times in the May 7 edition.

WHAT’S NEXT: After the trustees came out of closed session, they voted unanimously to continue the discussion at a meeting tentatively scheduled for June 4. The CUSD agenda for the Wednesday, May 27 meeting, had discussion regarding whether to hire an independent investigator of Halt’s files listed. The decision on whether to reinstate Halt will ultimately be up to the consensus of the board. Whether the June 4 meeting will be exclusively dedicated to executive session remains to be announced. —Eric Heinz

Rachael Farrokh’s GoFundMe Site Exceeds $180K

THE LATEST: San Clemente resident Rachael Farrokh’s GoFundMe page has garnered national, if not international,

attention after her husband’s plea for assistance in helping his wife went viral.

Farrokh suffers from a severe type of anorexia brought on by several mental illnesses, which some doctors, according to multiple news reports, said could be fatal. As of Tuesday, Farrokh’s page had garnered $188,000.

“My lovely wife Rachael and I have been together for more than a decade and she will be seeing her final days if we don’t take action,” her husband, Rod Edmondson, said on the webpage. “She is 5 feet 7 inches tall and her weight continues to plummet to a weight that’s extremely dangerous. She has been fighting through a disease that has the highest mortality rate of all psychological disorders, an extreme case of anorexia.”

The San Clemente Times has reported on Farrokh’s condition in past issues. She now weighs less than 50 pounds and is in constant need of her husband’s support. Digesting food is nearly impossible without Farrokh experiencing excruciating pain, according to the website.

WHAT’S NEXT: Rachel said in a YouTube video that she is making progress in her treatments since the funding. The video can be seen of her latest updates at Rachel’s Road to Recovery.

FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit http://www.gofundme.com/savemyrachael. —EH

Farmers Market Operator Locks in Three-Year Agreement with City

THE LATEST: During its May 19 meeting, San Clemente City Council voted 4-0-1, with Councilman Tim Brown absent, to solidify a three-year agreement with Rick Heil, who is the current main coordinator of the Farmers Market on Avenida del Mar.

Initially, the farmers market was a one-time, monthly activity and operated under a special-use permit. Since then it has become a weekly event on Avenida del Mar in the heart of the city. According to the agreement, the farmers market can be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays.

The three-year permit was approved by council for $350 per month for the market to use the city’s right of way but also would be subject to a $5 to $10 additional fee increase each year.

The current permit was scheduled to expire Dec. 31.

During the meeting, Pam Passow, city recreation manager, said the previous fee collected by the city was higher than the typical charge from nearby cities for farmers market operations.

Prior to this agreement, Heil had to

appeal for renewal of the agreement because a group of residents had requested the city require a request for proposal (RFP) from possible coordinators. No other proposals were received.

OCTA Updates I-5, Pico Construction

THE LATEST: Crews began demolition work on Friday, May 22, on a sound wall along northbound Interstate 5, just north of Camino de Estrella. The sound wall will be reconstructed on top of a new, stronger retaining wall to accommodate an additional lane on the freeway as part of the I-5 South County Improvements Project.

In the coming weeks, drivers can expect to see massive piles of dirt adjacent to the Avenida Pico on-ramp and off-ramp to southbound I-5, which will stay in place for about three months, known as a “settlement period.” The mounds of dirt will compact soil beneath the bridge abutments, helping to mitigate potential settlement of the abutments once the bridge is constructed, Orange County Transportation Authority officials said.

OCTA spokesman Eric Carpenter wrote in an email that the project team has not “observed any substantial issues with traffic flow through the project area,” but some slowing is expected as motorists grow accustomed to the new lane striping.

WHAT’S NEXT: Following the Memorial Day holiday, regularly scheduled I-5 nighttime lane reductions resumed

Tuesday and will continue as necessary.

FIND OUT MORE: For real time construction updates, visit www.octa. net/5southcountydetourmap.

—Allison Jarrell

Sign Ordinance Could Return to Council

THE LATEST: In discussion, City Council said San Clemente they will take another look at its sign ordinance regarding signs larger than 64 square feet.

A request was brought forth during the council meeting regarding an amendment to the current ordinance. Council described the sign ordinance as a “quality of life” issue, which will appear on a future meeting agenda.

The code has been the same since 1984, according to city officials.

The discussion is to revolve around whether signs of this size will continue to be allowed or require a special permit.

Pole signs fall under a different restriction of 15 square feet.

WHAT’S NEXT: The law, should it come to council, could take some time to construct. When the city published its agenda Tuesday for the next meeting scheduled on June 2, no item regarding the issue was placed for action or discussion. —EH

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Community Meetings

SUNDAY, MAY 31

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.

TUESDAY, JUNE 2

Toastmasters

7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking every Tuesday in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. 3316 Avenida del Presidente, 949.361.8463, http://6463.toastmastersclubs.org/directions.html.

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. City Hall, Council Chambers, 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

Kiwanis Meeting

Noon. The local Kiwanis Club meets at Tommy’s restaurant. 1409 S El Camino Real, 949.498.7000, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

SC Rotary Club

Noon. Pride of the Pacific Bar & Grille, 150 Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.3619, www.sanclementerotary.org.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3

Planning Commission Meeting

7 p.m., City Hall, Council Chambers, 100 Avenida Presidio, www.san-clemente.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 4

CUSD Special Meeting

4:30 p.m. Agenda to be posted 24 hours in advance on the CUSD website. Capistrano Unified School District, Education Center Boardroom, 33122 Valle Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.9200, www.capousd.ca.schoolloop.com.

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

Dark Friday City offices closed.

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY ERIC HEINZ

Got Milk? San Clemente Seeks Better Future Moms

What is a Better Future Mom? A Better Future Mom is a leader in her community who encourages others (not just moms) to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. She is strong, smart and loves milk. Do you know a Better Future Mom? San Clemente-based Got milk? asks people to submit nominations for Better Future Moms. Send a brief summary stating why your nominee is a Better Future Mom to press@gotmilk.com before May 31 at midnight. Nominations are open to all moms who have at least one child between the ages of 3 and 18 years old. The honorees will serve as Better Future Mom ambassadors representing Got milk? Got milk? has also partnered with online mom influencers to create a series of social media videos offering tips and advice on being a Better Future Mom shared on the Got milk? social media platforms—Facebook: @gotmilk, Twitter: @gotmilk and Instagram.

I-5 Freedom Network Seeks Engagement

The I-5 Freedom Network in San Clemente, a group of hotel business own-

SC Sheriff’s Blotter

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.

Tuesday, May 26

DISTURBANCE El Portal, 200 Block (2:03 a.m.) Caller in Maui, Hawaii phoned deputies after receiving a text from their sister claiming the sister’s boyfriend tried to set the living room on fire. The sister said she didn’t want the police involved and she was just going to leave her apartment.

Monday, May 25

DISTURBANCE Cantilena, 0 Block (4:08 p.m.) A man reported his son and daughter were in an argument over a hamburger.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Canada, 100 Block (12:31 a.m.) Two men who looked like “gang members” went up the stairs at the complex and remained there

ers seeking to educate people about and reduce human trafficking, is looking to reach out to more lodging businesses on spotting these crimes.

Hotel owners recently participated in training to identify possible human trafficking taking place in their areas.

Participating hotels in the network include the Holiday Inn San Clemente, Holiday Inn Express, Best Western Casablanca, Casa Tropicana, the Inn at Calafia Beach, The Hills Hotel, Laguna Hills and the Double Tree Hotel at Dana Point. A few have already received training from the Department of Homeland Security.

The group also stated in a release that members are looking forward to connecting with representatives of the Outlets at San Clemente to address the issue.

A separate awareness event regarding human trafficking issues is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. June 2 at San Clemente High School. For more information, contact bmtwells@gmail.com.

Woman’s Club to Host Awards Ceremony

San Clemente Woman’s Club is holding its awards ceremony and monthly meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 4 at the San Clemente Community Center, Fireside Room, 100 N. Calle Seville. Prospective members are welcome to attend. For more information contact the club at www.sanclementewomansclub.com.

for a time. The caller said the subjects did not look like they live in the location. Soon after, a white vehicle drove by and one of the men ran away, and then later returned.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 600 Block (11:01 a.m.) Two men in their 20s were loitering in a store and “making a mess.”

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Avenida Pico, 700 Block (8:04 a.m.) Landscapers found a dead body in nearby shrubbery. According to OCSD officials, the deceased is believed to be a transient and has yet to be idenitified.

ASSISTANCE OUTSIDE AGENCY Las Posas, 1200 Block (5:08 a.m.) A 60-year-old male was bleeding from his face. His roommate said it looked as though he had been beaten up.

Sunday, May 24

DISTURBANCE Escalones, 100 Block (11:04 p.m.) A man told police his girlfriend’s sister was being harassed by her boyfriend. The boyfriend reportedly chased her down the freeway.

SHOTS HEARD-NO SUSPECT INFORMATION

Dalton

Lohman

Selected for U. S. Coast Guard Academy’s Summer Program

San Clemente resident, Dalton Lohman, a high school student at Saddleback Valley Christian Schools in San Juan Capistrano, is spending a week in July at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy’s Introduction Mission (AIM) summer program. Dalton was selected out of several thousand applicants from across the country to attend AIM based on his leadership potential, personal character, academic and athletic achievement, plus his potential to contribute as a future Cadet. The academy is located in New London, Connecticut, and provides a four-year bachelor of science degree program with a full scholarship.

“This summer program will be physically challenging, but I am also excited about the AROW Robotics on the Water Competition where I will be working with others to design, build and test a water robotic device able to perform a mission,” Dalton said.

Have something interesting for the community? We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (9:29 p.m.) Two to three “big” blasts were heard followed by five gunshots near North Beach and Las Palmas Elementary School.

Saturday, May 23

VANDALISM IN PROGRESS South El Camino Real/Avenida Rosa (1:10 p.m.) A woman called regarding a 60-year-old apparently homeless man on a bike who was scraping the side of her car with his handlebars.

Friday, May 22

GRAND THEFT REPORT Avenida Palizada, 300 Block (12:39 p.m.) Two laptops and a hard drive were stolen from a man by a female employee. Witnesses saw her place the man’s belongings into an Enterprise renta-car and drive off. The vehicle had also been reported stolen.

Thursday, May 21

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Costero Risco, 4100 Block (1:47 p.m.) A woman reported she left her door open for an hour and her dog was barking as if someone was inside.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Granada, 400 Bloack (11:10 a.m.) A woman believed someone was living in the bushes after her gardener found a suitcase and other personal items there.

Photography Enthusiasts

Take Center Stage

Seventh annual photo contest receives 60-plus submissions; cash prizes awarded

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

This year’s theme was to find a way to harness the essence of a day in San Clemente, and the artists set forth to the task, “A Day in San Clemente, The Spanish Village.”

There were more than 60 submissions for the contest this year, and organizers garnered interest through social media and other marketing campaigns.

The contest, along with the foundation, were borne as a means to promote positive community environments to alleviate the stresses of contentious local issues.

“When we envisioned this competition, we purposely said ‘People can enter anyway they like, as long as it’s electronic,’” Ghantous said, adding the photos submitted came in all format sizes and forms.

The winning shot was a square format by Jorg Westerheid, taken from the top of Avenida del Mar of people passing by Historic City Hall. The photo was most likely shot in the afternoon or evening in order to highlight the golden wave of light escaping behind the horizon. To capture his subjects’ movement, the shutter had been slowed to compensate the movement and using a higher aperture.

“It is so iconic. When you look at it, you can see a man with a stroller and a cell phone, a runner that is kind ghosting through the scene,” Ghantous said, speaking about the artist staying true to the broad assignment. “There’s a small child looking through that old glass door into the 1920s lobby, and a silhouettes of people.”

Judges are from the San Clemente Journal, the San Clemente Downtown Business Association and the San Clemente Times.

The Spanish Village Foundation along with the San Clemente DBA hosted the event.

Westerheid used a Fuji XTI to capture his shot, and although the camera shoots in a standard 16-by-9 format, he said he enjoys the square ratio (1-to-1) to capture his images.

“Somehow I had to stay close to the theme, and the (Historic) City Hall represented the architecture of San Clemente,” Westerheid said. “I was just waiting for a green light that the pedestrians got. I took a bunch and chose the right one and submitted it.”

He said he has been taking photos since college in order to finance himself, and

he’s now 66 years old.

“I’m pretty much interested in architecture and not so much into street photography, and I’m not always into taking photos of humans,” he said, adding that he had to get a little out of his comfort zone to get this particular shot. “It was very surprising to me and everybody was happy. It is my daughter’s birthday and I can share my winnings with my daughter.”

KAREN OLIVER, SECOND PLACE

Oliver was inspired by the Junior Lifeguards program in San Clemente, which her children have participated in for almost 10 years.

“There’s a spot where you watch them jump off from the pier as part of their training,” Oliver said, adding Dennis White, the head of the training, is the man in the photograph. “It’s like he’s on his way to work.”

It’s as if the floatation device is the subject’s briefcase as he takes that step into the ocean.

“He looks so calm and casual about it,” Oliver said.

She said she has been taking photos for decades, especially when she was a teenager.

TODD METZGER, HONORABLE MENTION

As a way to connect with his mother, Metzger said he has taken photos seriously for about nine years and has drawn his inspiration through her.

“When my mom died, God gave me her vision of photography, and I pass it down,” Metzger said. “I shoot with my little Sony camera and then a lot of passion.”

Metzger said he mostly likes people’s smiles, shadows and tries to be as patient as possible when taking a shot. He said because of technology, anyone can take 1,000 photos, but it takes patience to capture a brilliant image.

Metzger has entered the competition for all seven years of its existence and remains diligent in his pursuit of first place.

OTHER AWARDS

People’s Choice Photo: “Rastros Felices/ Happy Trails” by Steve Kuhn

Honorable Mentions: Valjean Funk, Chase Oblen, Christy MacBride, J.R. Racine, Gail Collins, Nicole Cartolano, Andy Lara, Todd Metzger SC

SOAPBOX SC

Letters to the Editor

NUDITY IS PART OF ART

GRACE FREEMAN, San Clemente

One seemingly average morning earlier this May, I entered my Advanced Placement art history classroom at San Clemente High School to discover my favorite teacher had been suspended for showing the class a film called The Artist is Present. As I was researching additional information on his suspension, I came upon a recently published article on OC Weekly’s webpage that concerned my art history teacher, Roderick Urquidi. It revealed to the public that Urquidi had shown an “inappropriate” film during class that showcased nudity of the human body in various ways, and that certain parents had been appalled that they had not been asked to sign a permission slip to allow their teenage kids to watch the film in class. I write today to share my experience as a student of Urquidi’s for the last two years, not to deny any accusations against him, but to give another perspective.

I was enrolled in Mr. Urquidi’s world history class last year as well as his AP art history class this year. English was always my favorite subject in school until sophomore year, but Mr. Urquidi changed that. Mr. U opened up a world that I had never knew about. He taught me about cultures all over the world, he taught me about the gray areas in life, he taught me to care about our environment and preserving the earth, he taught me about the prejudice and hierarchy that has haunted the history of humans, but also about the beauty and wonder we create in art and our capacity for compassion and love towards each other. He showed me that art can change the world and has inspired me, as a songwriter, to write about what

Join

Brenda Wells, who has helped organize the I-5 Freedom Network to combat human trafficking at hotels, will be this week’s guest. She will speak about the details of the network and some of the training in which local lodging business representatives have participated to learn how to spot human trafficking. 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.

I really care about, in hope that one day I can influence people, as several artists he introduced me to did.

From Hellenistic Greek to Italian Renaissance to modern art, we have seen nudity in art as a class all year—because seriously, let’s face it—nudity is a huge part of art. AP art history is an elective class, and I assume AP students would be prepared enough to expect that there might be nudity. Art is full of controversial messages and themes, and diving into the subject of art history takes some openmindedness from students and perhaps parents too. Despite the criticism Mr. Urquidi has received for showing The Artist is Present which included nudity, to our class, I was personally inspired by it. It was not a movie about nudity, it was not meant to be “inappropriate” or “provocative.” It was about humanity, passion, crossing boundaries—all the things that art is.

Marina Abromovic, the performance artist featured in the film, used art as a way to connect with her audience through being honest and true to herself. Now each morning that I walk into class, the excitement of learning is no longer there. I had planned all year to give Mr. Urquidi the album I just finished with my band, The Moon Police, on the last day of school and thank him for his inspiration. His suspension from San Clemente High School was perhaps the result of a mistake, perhaps the result of the innate controversy of art, but not a crime. I sincerely hope that he will continue to enlighten kids like me about the beauty of art and of life.

TO: CAPISTRANO UNIFIED BOARD OF TRUSTEES

JIM SIGAFOOS, San Clemente

It is my understanding that you are bringing an employment lawyer in to review the files as an “impartial” third party. The question is not whether the termination was legal, of which I have no doubt— it is my understanding that Mr. Halt was an at will employee. When I asked for a “third party,” I asked for a respected retired superintendent who could evaluate this matter from the perspective of good District level management. It is still my hope that the District Management and the Board of Trustees will at learn something from this fiasco.

The questions you should be asking are as follows:

1. Are the reasons supporting Mike Halt’s termination sufficient to offset his obviously stellar performance at SCHS? It is easy to find a person who can play political games but very hard to find a leader who can move a school. Did you trade a leader for a yes man? Did the district management blow this very important call?

2. Is there any reason justifying Mr. Halt’s early removal, other than a clumsy, politically expedient, attempt to try to avoid the public mess that ensued? This decision was incompetent, as it greatly magnified rather than minimized the public outcry. It was inhumane in that it needlessly damaged the reputation of a man who rendered great service in his primary job—educating students—whatever his failures were in navigating the Byzantine corridors of the district office. And finally, it was particularly hurtful to the students of San Clemente High School, especially the seniors who have had much of the luster removed from their graduation year events.

I do not believe you can truly answer these questions without having a discussion with Mr. Halt and reviewing the termination documents in his possession. I believe you are subject to being “spun” about meetings with Mr. Halt by district management. I also believe that you are subject to being shown documents that were never provided to Mr. Halt and which he may well dispute. It is my understanding that the district office has delayed Mr. Halt’s request for a copy of his file, which makes me ask why? I don’t like to be a conspiracy theorist, but the district management, by their questionable actions and gross mismanagement, have not earned our trust.

I can still believe in the board, but only if you hear both sides before making a final decision. It is hard for me to see how you can be impartial without hearing both sides.

Finally, I am very dismayed about the climate of fear and intimidation that has descended over the district. By either running off or totally demoralizing our best staff, the district management threatens to transform a formerly high performing district into a dysfunctional district. I believe at this point, our only achievable “wildly important goal” is to not make things worse. That will take bold action by the board. I ask you to start tomorrow by at least undertaking an investigation of the Halt affair that includes hearing his side.

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

CORRECTION: In the May 21-27 issue of the San Clemente Times, the hashtag of the #SaylorStrong, Love You More bracelets was incorrectly spelled. The aforementioned is the correct spelling.

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GUEST OPINION: Lew’s Views by

Lew Avera

Memories from Memorial Day

Earlier this week we celebrated Memorial Day in San Clemente, honoring those who have served in our military forces over the years and particularly those who have given their lives to preserve our freedom and American way of life. Celebrations are particularly moving here in San Clemente with the many veterans from all services. I’m sure that all veterans were reminded of some of the most poignant events of their military careers.

This year’s celebration also coincides with the 40th anniversary, in April, of the final departure of U.S. troops from Vietnam in 1975 and the conclusion of U.S. operating forces on the ground in the Vietnam War. Much was seen on television and in the press of the evacuation of Saigon and our embassy and the departure of some 200,000 Vietnamese civilians, thousands of whom ended up just outside of San Clemente in the most northern part of Camp Pendleton.

Both this week’s Memorial Day and the evacuation events of last month raised one of the most memorable and special times of my life during my career in the U. S. Marines and a time about which we hear very little. March marked the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the

first United States ground combat troops into Vietnam in March 1965. I happened to have been part of that event and have special memories of that first year with the people of Vietnam.

I was a company commander with the 3rd Battalion, First Marines at Camp San Mateo, just inside the back gate to Camp Pendleton from San Clemente. During that time I had resided in San Clemente on West Ramona Street for some two years when San Clemente had a population of about 7,000. On the day in March of 1965 when the very first U.S. troops landed in Chu Lai, South Vietnam, I was boarding a Navy transport ship in San Diego with the battalion for a pre-planned one-year deployment to the Far East. Of course, we went immediately to Vietnam.

ed and trained by North Vietnam to fight and kill their own so that North Vietnam could take over and rule all of Vietnam, much like we see all over the Middle East today. However, the North Vietnamese were beginning to move south and infiltrate via Laos. Our landings in 1965 were the beginning of the “Vietnamese War” to halt this escalation.

and church groups and young people, participating in recreational and social activities with local citizens as well as, and perhaps above all else, visiting with their critically wounded in their hospitals. Of course, the lack of quality and care in their military hospitals was heartbreaking. I have pictures of many of these activities that keep them active in my mind. To this day I know many Vietnamese people here in San Clemente and Orange County and consider them to be among my very best friends.

LEW’S VIEWS By

Lew Avera

At this time in South Vietnam, the U.S. had advisors to the Vietnamese military since the beginning of the1960s and some air support units as well, but no ground combat troops. The direct enemy of the South Vietnamese military were the Viet Cong, local residents and citizens abduct-

At the time of our landing the U.S. advisors were spread all over the I Corps, the northern third of the country, with their Vietnamese units. Their safety was a problem and something we needed to ensure. The highlight of my experience was being selected to form a special U.S. Marine Company of some 200 Marines to deploy in six locations throughout the northern country to provide security for these advisors.

In doing this I was detached from Marine unit locations and located into the civilian communities of the major cities of DaNang, Hue, Hoi An, Quang Tri and Quang Nai. Remembering that actual ground combat had not yet begun for our U.S. troops, this gave me an opportunity to literally, in a certain way, become a member of the “Vietnamese community.” As such, I remember working with their military leaders, teaching English to school

I continued in this role for my entire tour to April 1966 when I returned home to the U.S. and later returned to South Vietnam in 1970 on a major assignment, in country, as the last of the Marine ground combat units were withdrawn from country in 1971.

So it was with Memorial Day 2015, a recollection of my most memorable time as a Marine, and thinking about the thousands of others who served with me and the many who gave their lives for all of us. SC

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.

GETTING OUT SC

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

Thursday | 28

OPEN ARTIST STUDIO

11 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy a creative workspace alongside a community of artists. Free. Ages 16 and up. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

LA GRAND ENSEMBLE

7 p.m.-9 p.m. Composed of musicians from the most prestigious orchestras and music institutions in Los Angeles—including the LA Philharmonic, the LA Opera and the Colburn School—LA Grand Ensemble is known for engaging classical music audiences with an innovative and modern concert experience. General admission $25, Casa members $20. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Friday | 29

STUDENT BEACH CONCERT

6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Enjoy music performed by the San Clemente High School jazz band and Shorecliffs Middle School jazz band just north of the San Clemente Pier. The program is free and features music suitable for the whole family. Fisherman’s Restaurant sponsors a barbecue dinner served at the beach for $8 per person. Arrive early for blanket space and parking. For more information, visit www.san-clemente.org or call 949.361.8264.

MERCEDES MOORE BAND

7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

Saturday |

30

COSMIC CREEK SURF COMPETITION

8 a.m.-4 p.m. Cosmic Creek, a retro surf contest featuring local shapers, vintage surfboards and live music, will take place Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. Presented by Vissla, the event includes a free concert on Saturday, featuring live music by FROTH and Tropical Popsicle. Music on the beach will be played both days, and vendors will provide refreshments. For more information, visit www.vissla.com/ blog/vissla-cosmic-creek.

HARBOR MUSIC CRUISE: CALI CONSCIOUS

8 p.m. Enjoy live music aboard the 95-foot vessel Dana Pride while cruising the Dana Point Harbor and watching the sunset. The boat features a full bar. Must be 21 or over, with proper ID. Admission is $19. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Sunday | 31

CASPERS NATURE HIKE

8 a.m.-9 a.m. Join OC Park rangers every Sunday morning for an easy 1-mile hike on the nature trail, which takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian and sandy cactus scrub communities. Admission is free, parking is $5. Participants should meet at the Old Corral day use area. Sunscreen, water and insect repellent are recommended. Rain will cancel the hike. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com/caspers.

ART DISPLAY

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Barnoa Wine Bar in Talega will showcase the artwork of Robert Waxman and Robert Baard Peterson. 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, 949.388.4378, www.barnoawinebar.com.

Xavier Rudd and The United Nations Come to The Coach House

BY EVAN DA SILVA, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Australian solo artist Xavier Rudd and his band The United Nations will be performing at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, May 31, with doors opening at 5 p.m. and the show beginning at 7 p.m.

The stop will be part of the group’s 2015 touring schedule celebrating the release of their first collaborative album, Nanna

Rudd entered the music scene with his 2002 debut album, To Let, which introduced mixing of traditional guitars, percussion and blues with instruments native to Australia, such as the didgeridoo. His sophomore album Solace debuted in the Top-20 of the Australian Record Industry Awards music charts and eventually went platinum.

After an equally successful third release, again awarding him with attention from the ARIA and placement on the Dutch music charts, Rudd found his first

Monday | 01

MOMMY MOVIE MONDAYS

10 a.m. Moms and dads are welcome to bring their baby along to the theater every Monday at Krikorian Theaters. 641 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7610, www.kptmovies.com.

Tuesday | 02

HALF-PRICED WHALE WATCHING

10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. Hop onboard a cruise to see dolphins, whales and other marine life. $22.50. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

taste of success in the United States with his fourth studio production, White Moth, released in 2007. The album released by Epitaph’s sister label, ANTI-, would reach No. 30 on the U.S. Billboard charts.

A string of continued successes would follow, with Rudd reaching No. 5 on the ARIA charts in 2008 with Dark Shades of Blue, and No. 2 in 2012 with Spirit Bird Shifting gears from his usual solo act, Nanna is Rudd’s and The United Nations’ first production together. The group boasts musicians from all corners of the globe including South Africa, Samoa, Germany, Papua New Guinea and Australia.

The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. Tickets are $30 and dinner reservations with priority seating are also available. For tickets or more information call 949.496.8930 or log on to www.thecoachhouse.com. SC

Wednesday | 03

SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

7:30 p.m. UC Irvine presents Sweet Smell of Success, a musical about the unscrupulous JJ Hunsecker and sleazy press agent Sidney Falco who join forces to bring showbiz gossip and celebrity scandals to the hungry public via The New York Globe. Show also runs June 4, 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. Tickets $11 to $20. Parking is $10-$15. UCI, Claire Trevor Theater, 4000 Mesa Road, Irvine, 949.824.2787, www.arts.uci.edu.

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE

TIMES or crime film fanatics 2014 ended on a somewhat underwhelming note when J.C. Chandor’s A Most Violent Year didn’t live up to its title, in terms of onscreen violence and intrigue. This summer, a French gangster film called The Connection (or La French in France) starring Jean Dujardin delivers both interesting characters and thrilling moments.

In 1975 Marseille, France, drug trafficking is at an all-time high with cocaine and heroin distribution via mob groups. The streets are

filled with criminals carrying guns and the drug addicts keep getting younger. Magistrate Pierre Michel (Dujardin) sets his goals on taking down the local drug ringleader Gaëtan Zampa (Gilles Lellouche) to curb the crime running through Europe and the U.S. At the same time, Pierre is also dealing with family drama with his wife, Jacqueline (Céline Sallette).

Pauline Burlet co-stars as a teen addict. The film is based on true events that also inspired the 1971 classic The French Connection. Similarities can be seen between that

film, as well as some of Scorsese’s mafia films in The Connection, but not to the point that it’s distracting.

Dujardin, who was originally trained and won an Oscar for comedy, is very good as the civil officer who’s sick of seeing people hurt and addicted in his city.

Director Cédric Jimenez succeeds at setting the pace and tone of violence and deception in 1970s France. The Connection works fine for lovers of biopics, period pieces and crime tales. SC

SC LIVING SC

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

San Clemente honors military veterans on Memorial Day

BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Honoring the Fallen M

emorial Day ceremonies took place Monday, May 25 in San Clemente and its neighboring cities. San Clemente’s ceremonies were held at the city’s Community Center and Park Semper Fi around the Marine Monument.

Hundreds of people came to each event, overflowing onto sidewalks and streets adjacent to each venue.

Of the notable speakers, Brig. Gen. Edward D. Banta of the U.S. Marine Corps spoke at both venues about the current and past state of the armed forces, the importance of honoring and taking care of veterans and his appreciation of the large crowds that attended the day’s events.

Staff Sgt. MaryAnn Miller spoke about her experiences in the Marines and her current duties at Camp Pendleton as the Wounded Warrior section leade. During her service, Miller was severely injured when an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded near her unit, along with

other Marines.

Both ceremonies recognized six members of a Marine unit adopted by the city, HMLA-469, who died in a helicopter crash in Nepal two weeks ago, as well as the two Marines who died in a training exercise in Hawaii last week, one of whom was stationed at Camp Pendleton. SC

NCL Members Look Toward Their Futures

Philanthropy honors its high school seniors

BY SHELBY NIX, SCHS SENIOR PHOTOS BY ACCENT PORTRAITS BY DIANA

The Monarch Chapter of National Charity League held the Senior Presentation of the Class of 2015 on Saturday, May 16, at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point. The National Charity League is a mother-daughter organization dedicated to serving local philanthropies while fostering the mother-daughter relationship. Together, mothers and daughters participate in philanthropic work, educational activities, leadership development and cultural enrichment. The commitment these graduating seniors have shown in unselfishly serving the needs of others has had a positive impact on our community. They have given hundreds of volunteer hours; collected food, read books to children, filled care packages for Marines, hosted Special Olympics events, distributed food at Family Assistance Ministries and cleaned beaches. Congratulations to these seniors as they take the next steps in their personal journey after high school graduation.

Katie Clavadetscher

Katie Clavadetscher is the Senior Class President for NCL Monarch. She has enjoyed working with Family Assistance Ministries, Second Harvest Food Bank, Operation Valentine and Kids Konnected. She will be attending University of Oregon in the fall to study human physiology and eventually go into holistic medicine.

Courtney Crane

Courtney Crane is graduating from San Juan Hills High School and will attend Saddleback College in the fall with plans to transfer to Pepperdine University and study business. Being a part of NCL during the last six years has been very rewarding for her and she wants to continue serving her community through philanthropic work.

Natalie Green

Natalie Green will be attending San Francisco State University this fall after graduating from San Clemente High School. She has enjoyed her time spent volunteering for Family Assistance Ministries, including their Christmas event, and is looking forward to her future.

Siena Hahn

Siena Hahn is graduating from San Juan Hills High School. During her time in NCL, she has had the pleasure of volunteering for wonderful philanthropies including Homefront America and The Shea Center. She will attend the University of St. Andrews in Scotland to study comparative literature.

Mackenna Lamphere

Mackenna Lamphere is graduating from Santa Margarita Catholic High School. She has loved being part of NCL for the last six years and has especially enjoyed her volunteer work with Mission Hospital, Homefront America and the Surfrider Foundation. She will be attend-

ing Sacred Heart University, where she will join the SHU varsity fencing team and study sports communication and photojournalism.

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

Shelby Nix

Shelby Nix is graduating as Valedictorian from San Clemente High School. She has enjoyed being a part of NCL for the last six years and volunteering with various philanthropies such as Family Assistance Ministries and Special Olympics. Shelby will be attending Northeastern University to study International Business and French. She will be studying abroad for the first semester in Montréal, Canada at McGill University as part of Northeastern’s NUin program.

Shelby Thompson

Shelby Thompson is graduating from San Clemente High School as Valedictorian and has held leadership positions such as Senior Class President and Lacrosse Captain. She has met many incredible people through NCL and has had the opportunity to volunteer at philanthropies such as Operation Valentine and Homefront America. She will be attending Chapman University in the fall.

Summer Thompson

Summer Thompson is graduating from San Clemente High School as Valedictorian, a four-year varsity cheerleader and captain of the cheerleading team. NCL has made her realize that it is not the acts of kindness we do for other people, but the kind reactions of people that make it all worth it. Some of her favorite philanthropies include Operation Valentine and Homefront America. She will be attending San Diego State in the fall.

Grace Villa

Grace Villa is graduating from Mater Dei High School. She has loved being a part of NCL and especially liked working with kids in all the different philanthropies. She will be attending University of Texas at Austin, where she is accepted into the fine arts program focusing on theater studies. She will receive a business certification and teaching credential for high school drama.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

ADDICTION RECOVERY

TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

2411 S. El Camino Real, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com

AIR CONDITIONING

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

APPLIANCES

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

APPLIANCE SERVICES & REPAIRS

ASAP Appliance Service

3200 Legendario, 949.361.7713, www.asapapplianceservice.com

ART GALLERIES

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

BOOKS

Village Books

99 Avenida Serra, 949.492.1114, www.DowntownSanClemente.com

CHIROPRACTIC

Thompson Chiropractic 629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.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

DENTISTS

William Brownson, D.D.S. 3553 Camino Mira Costa, Ste B, 949.493.2391, www.drbrownson.com

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com

Kristen Ritzau DDS 122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.498.4110, www.KristenRitzauDDS.com

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRICAL

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com

FURNITURE

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

GRAPHIC DESIGN

IMAGES/Creative Solutions 117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com

HARP LESSONS & RENTALS

Wendy-Harpist 949.482.9025, www.orangecountyharpist.com

HEATING

Oasis Heating & Air

31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com

HOME DÉCOR

South Coast Furniture & Mattress

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

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 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

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

PLUMBING

Bill Metzger Plumbing 929 Calle Negocio Suite D, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com

Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

SC Pool & Spa Works

1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com

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

REAL ESTATE

Marcie GeorgeStar Real Estate South County 949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net

“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax 949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.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

SCHOOLS

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools

32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org

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

LIST

USE LOCALS ONLY

LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com. Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com

SHORECLIFFS SPRING COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE

Come by the Shorecliffs Spring Community Garage Sale on May 30th, between 8am-12pm. Lot’s of homes participating throughout the area. Look for signs!

ESTATE SALE

Sunday, May 31, 9am - 3pm 27002 Azul Dr, Capo Beach High-quality Furniture, Auto Parts, Misc. Will accept any reasonable offer. 661-886-8843

TUTOR

High Level, AP High School Junior, available to tutor your child and bring them to the next level; $15. Call or text (949) 394 4125

HANDYMAN CHRIS

Flat screen TV’s installed, anything Electrical, Plumbing, Finish Carpentry, Drywall Repairs, Mold and Wood Rot issues, Waterproofing, Decks and Patio covers repaired, Doors, Windows, Kitchens and Baths, Water Damage Restoration, Custom Sheet Metal Fabrication and Much More. Phone Chris –949 510 6645

WOOD DECK REPAIR WIZZARD

Wood Rot Repair Certified Specialist, Wood Decks, Balconies, Patio Covers + Outside Stairs Repaired / Replaced, New Decking Systems, All work Guaranteed. Phone Chris -949 510 6645

CAREGIVER NEEDED Male client needs hourly caregiver 8 am to 10 am. Sat - Sun & Mon - Fri. Please call 949-250-0125

HOUSE KEEPER/CLEANER

NEEDED IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO - LIVE IN for $500 a week for 6 days. Please call (714) 2318942 or email resume to jack@ jntmgmt.com

GARDNER NEEDED IN SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO For 5 hours a day, 5 days a week. Please call (714) 231-8942 or email resume to jack@jntmgmt.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

SPORTS & OUTDOORS SC

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Triton Report

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School spring sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.

Kane’s Two Home Runs

Put Tritons Softball in Quarterfinals

The night before the San Clemente softball team’s CIF-SS Division 3 second round game against Warren was set to take place, Tritons senior Lauren Kane was busy working with her hitting instructor, attempting to find something that would help her end a 1-9 skid at the plate that had stretched over three games.

After an adjustment to her timing routine at the plate, Kane broke out of her slump in a big way against the Bears on May 26, belting two home runs, including a grand slam and collecting six RBIs in a 10-3 victory.

The Tritons will travel to play Bishop Amat in the Division 3 quarterfinals on May 28.

Kane, who is hitting a scorching .544 on the season, turned on an inside pitch to clear the bases for a grand slam in the first inning and hit an opposite-field home run in the bottom of the third to give the Tritons a 6-0 advantage. The power surge came as a welcome surprise for Kane, who spent her at-bats focusing on making contact rather than swinging for the fences.

“We actually worked on it last night at my hitting lesson…I do that timing slap and that really helps me calm down and really focus on the ball instead of trying to hit a home run,” Kane said.

Kane also came on in relief to spell Tritons starter Jordyne Prussak in the top of the sixth inning. Kane struck out four batters and did not allow a baserunner over two innings.

Pitching with a healthy lead, Prussak pitched five innings and allowed three runs on four hits. Prussak surrendered back-to-back home runs to Nadia Amezcua and Whitney Pemberton in the top of the sixth, prompting the need for Kane to come in and close things out with the score at 9-3.

Tritons senior shortstop Kelsey Horton went 4-4 and scored three runs. Freshman Mikaela Mak went 1-2 with two walks and three runs scored. In all, the Tritons recorded 10 hits and drew four walks.

“This team can do it. We just never know when they’re going to do it. They’re definitely capable,” head coach Bill Mal-

colm said. “When they’re firing, they’re tough to beat. If they play like they do today, we’ll be in the (championship) game a week from Saturday.”

Tritons Tennis Falls to Eagles in CIF-SS Finals

The San Clemente boys tennis team advanced all the way to the CIF-SS Division 2 championship match but ran up against top-seeded Santa Margarita and were defeated 11-7 on May 22.

It was the first time in school history a Tritons boys tennis team had reached the final stage of postseason play.

The Tritons singles players dominated in a quarterfinal win over Diamond Bar, then the team had to sweat out a narrow win over Arcadia in the semifinals, a match that was decided by the final game of the day.

Baseball Heads to CIF Quarterfinals

The San Clemente baseball team’s offense has been on a tear since the start of CIF-SS Division 2 postseason play. The Tritons, who scored a total of seven runs in their final four regular season games, have put up 22 runs in two playoff games, most recently picking up a 10-1 win over Dos Pueblos in the second round on May 26.

The top-seeded Tritons will host Bonita in the quarterfinals on May 29.

Against Dos Pueblos, San Clemente ben-

efitted from a five-run second inning. With three runs already across the plate, senior catcher Lucas Herbert hit a two-run home run to left center field to cap off the inning.

Senior starting pitcher Will Tribucher picked up the win on the mound.

Gillis, Dunne Advance to CIF Masters Track and Field Meet

San Clemente track and field team members Connor Dunne and Anna Gillis both advanced to the CIF Masters Meet at Cerritos College on May 29.

Dunne finished sixth in the boys 800-meter run with a time of 1:53.95 at the CIF-SS Finals on May 23 .

Gillis placed fourth in the girls discus throw after she posted a distance of 123 feet.

Madison Chronister also competed at the CIF-SS Finals and placed seventh in the discus with a throw of 115-feet6-inches.

Boys Swim Team Places 25th at State

Despite sending only two simmers to the CIF State meet on May 23, the San Clemente boys swim team placed 25th overall behind strong performances from senior Quinn Birtles and sophomore Brad Prolo.

Prolo finished first in the consolation finals of the 200 individual medley. His time of 1:51.11 qualified for ninth at the meet. Prolo also finished seventh in the

100 breaststroke (56.30).

Quinn placed ninth in the 500 freestyle (4:31.28).

Darnold Named OC Athletic Director’s Athlete of the Year

San Clemente senior Sam Darnold accepted the Athlete of the Year award from the Orange County Athletic Director’s Association on May 26.

Darnold was the Sea View League MVP for the Tritons football team where he starred at quarterback and was named the Co-MVP of the South Coast League for basketball. It was the second year in a row that Darnold won league MVP honors in basketball.

Darnold is committed to USC for football.

Chargers Sign Former Triton Rettig

COMPILED BY STEVE BREAZEALE

The San Diego Chargers announced on May 20 that they have added San Clemente High School graduate and former Boston College quarterback Chase Rettig to their roster.

After going undrafted in 2014, Rettig eventually found a home in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers, who picked him up before the start of last season. Rettig appeared in two preseason games, com-

pleting one of three passes for 10 yards. He was released by the Packers before the start of the regular season.

At Boston College, Rettig put together a spectacular four-year career. He threw for 8,263 yards and 52 touchdowns for the Eagles, completing just over 55 percent of his passes. He finished his career ranked third in all-time completions (685), fourth in passing yards and fourth in touchdowns. SC

Scoreboard

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

GOLF

The Friends of San Clemente will hold its fifth annual benefit golf tournament at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course on June 26.

The tournament, which raises funds for the foundation’s Fun on the Run program and sports scholarships, will kick off at noon with a shotgun start and 18 holes of golf. A buffet dinner, raffle and awards ceremony will follow.

Last year, $20,000 was raised for the Fun on the Run program and scholarships for local children to attend city recreation classes, according to a press release.

Several San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame inductees are slated to be in attendance at the event.

Cost for individuals is $150 and the cost for a foursome is $500.

For more information or to register, visit www.friendsofsanclemente.org or call 949.276.8866.

MUAY THAI KICKBOXING

Local Muay Thai kickboxing fighters Kendall Andersland and Paola Ramirez each earned decisive victories at the World Championship Kickboxing Cali 8 at Hollywood Park Casino on May 16.

Ramirez knocked previously undefeated Nicoline Joergensen to the mat with an

overhand right in the first round of their bout. Ramirez recorded another knockdown in the second round and earned a 38-36 unanimous decision and was named the International Amateur Muay Thai Federation’s lightweight champion.

Andersland already holds two mixed martial arts championship belts, according to trainer Bryon Schnell, and she added a Muay Thai belt to her collection with a split-decision win over Patrice Kelly on May 16.

Both Andersland and Ramirez are San Clemente natives and train at Progressive Martial Arts. SC

SC SURF SC

San Clemente

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

CLEMENTE

GROMS OF THE WEEK SAN

HIGH SCHOOL SURF TEAM

The San Clemente High School surf team earned the title of Scholastic Surf Series Section A state champions, May 16 to 18 at San Onofre State Park, Church Beach.

The SC team was the top points-earner from a field of nine coastal high schools from San Diego to Santa Cruz.

After taking a break from SSS state competition last year due to scheduling issues, the team came back on a tear, making it into the finals of four of the five team divisions— Men’s Shortboard (second place), Men’s Longboard (second place) and winning Women’s Shortboard and Coed Bodyboard. The team took third place in Women’s Longboard.

“San Clemente has the best feeding program of any of the high school teams with surfers coming up from undefeated Shorecliffs, Bernice Ayer and Vista Del Mar middle schools acting as development teams for their program,” Carolyn Krammer, SSS competition director said. “Such a

strong depth of talent feeding in from San Clemente middle schools has made them a dominating force.”

Although San Clemente had only two team members competing in individual state competition—Rachael Tilly (Women’s Longboard) and Kaimana Takayama (Men’s Longboard)—both made it onto the individuals podium. Takayama had a fourth-place finish and Tilly took top honors, her fifth straight SSS Individual State Championship title, dating back to her days of competing for Shorecliffs Middle School.

Full SSS State Championship results are available online at www.sanclementetimes. com.—Andrea Swayne

RESULTS

NSSA 2015 West Coast Championships, May 14-17, Huntington Beach, Pier

WEST COAST OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

MEN: 1. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente 12.53; 2. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente 12.20. WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, Oceanside 13.47; 2. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente 10.73. JUNIORS: 1. Ryland Rubens, Pacific Beach 15.27; 2. Kade Matson, San Clemente 13.47; 3. Cole Houshmand, San Clemente 13.17; 4. Crosby Colapinto, San Clemente 10.93. BOYS: 1. Taro Watanabe, Malibu 18.16; 2. Kade Matson, San Clemente 17.77; 3. Kai McPhillips, San Clemente 12.13; 4. Jackson Butler, Encinitas 9.67. MINI GROMS: 1. Brayden Burch, San Clemente 10.20; 2. Cole McCaffray, Cardiff 9.00; 3. Dane Matson, San Clemente 8.43; 4. Jake Chandler, Sherman Oaks 3.77. GIRLS: 1. Samantha Sibley, San Clemente 13.80; 2. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla 12.33; 3. Kirra Pinkerton, San Clemente 9.83; 4. Bethany Zelasko, Dana Point 4.40.

WEST COAST EXPLORER CHAMPIONSHIPS

MEN: 1. Jacob Szekely, La Jolla 15.26; 2. Micky Clarke, Ventura 13.50; 3. Will Reid, Palos Verdes Estates 10.90; 4. Andrew Niemann, Huntington Beach 9.20; 5. Nathan Smithson, Camarillo 8.23; 6. Parker Cohn, Newport Beach 4.27. JUNIORS: 1. Braden Jones, Pismo Beach 14.16; 2. Eithan Osborne, Ventura 14.10; 3. Jordan Collins, Carlsbad 13.90; 4. Liam Gloyd, Carlsbad 9.23; 5. Parker Cohn, Newport Beach 7.11; 6. Sean Woods, Thousand Oaks 6.40. BOYS: 1. Eithan Osborne, Ventura 15.40; 2. Kade Matson, San Clemente 14.10; 3. Ben Barone, La Jolla 12.60; 4. Jett Schilling, San Clemente 12.10; 5. Cole Houshmand, San Clemente 10.63; 6. Max Beach, San Clemente 7.63.

MENEHUNE: 1. Jett Schilling, San Clemente 10.60; 2. Dimitri Poulos, Ventura 9.20; 3. Kade Matson, San Clemente 8.47; 4. Connor Marshall, Encinitas 8.36; 5. Keanu Igarashi, Huntington Beach 6.00; 6. Koby Hughes, Encinitas 5.40. SUPER GROMS: 1. Hayden Rodgers, Laguna Beach 11.90; 2. Dane Matson, San Clemente 9.87;

6. Olivia Pessanha, San Diego 2.63. MASTERS: 1. Chris Keet, Santa Barbara 11.20; 2. Eric Pohring, Santa Barbara 7.10. SENIORS: 1. Chris Keet, Santa Barbara 13.17; 2. Tony Foster, Cayucos 12.30; 3. Trevor Nielson, San Diego 10.20. SUPER SENIORS: 1. Jeff Leverette, Vista 10.23; 2. Rick Fignetti, Huntington Beach 7.27; 3. Curt Harper, Santa Monica 4.13. DUKE: 1. Patrick Schlick, Leucadia 8.43; 2. Kyle Twitchell, San Clemente 8.39; 3. Jim Ferguson, Santa Rosa 6.66; 4. Rick Fignetti, Huntington Beach 6.17. KNEEBOARD: 1. Mike Fernandez, Huntington Beach 10.03; 2. Sean Noone, Alisa Viejo 9.74; 3. Ken Cherryhomes, Redmond 5.33; 4. Chris Bermudez, Oxnard 4.47; 5. Rodger Hughes, Santa Cruz 4.00. AIRSHOW CHAMPION: 1. Sean Woods, Thousand Oaks. JUNIOR AIRSHOW CHAMPION: 1. Nick Marshall, Encinitas. PERFORMER OF THE EVENT: Kade Matson. PERFORMERS OF THE DAY: Day 1. Parker Cohn; Day 2. Griffin Colapinto; Day 3. Kade Matson; Day 4. Kei Kobayashi.

UPCOMING EVENTS

May 30, 31: WSA West Coast Championships, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach June 12, 14, 16, 20: Surfing America USA Championships, San Diego, Cardiff Reef (June 12, 14) and San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles (June 16, 20). June 13, 15: NSSA Interscholastic College, High School and Middle School Championships, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach June 13-14: Volcom Totally Crustaceous Tour Global Championships, Days No. 1 and 2, Newport Beach, River Jetties