Best of San Clemente Polling is Now Open! Visit our
With new outlook, San Clemente’s Candice Appleby eyes three-peat at Pacific Paddle Games SPORTS/PAGE 14
the Life of Ernie Polte, one of SC’s Original Watermen SC SURF/PAGE 18 Hike Outlines Proposals of Toll Roads in San Clemente EYE ON SC/PAGE 3 Toast to the Casa Nets More Than $130,000 for Programs SC LIVING/PAGE 12
Clemente
THE LATEST: About 200 people made the two-mile trek along the trails near Avenida La Pata and Camino Del Rio on Sept. 23. The hike was intended to show people where possible toll roads, proposed by the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), could be constructed and what flora and fauna exist in those areas.
The hike was led by City Council Member Lori Donchak and Joel Robinson, the founder of the environmental organization Naturalist for You. City engineer Tom Bonigut spoke about where the toll road proposals were slated.
“It’s all approximate, but we’ll give you an idea,” Bonigut told attendees and added that some of the environmental survey markers have already been established for study areas for the toll roads.
The hike took a look at proposals 13, 14 and 17. The 13th and 17th alignment would go through areas of Shorecliffs and meet somewhere in between, with both alignments feeding into Interstate 5. The 14th alignment is drawn to go through the center of San Clemente from the northeast, through the Prima Deshecha Landfill, through various subdivisions and
board. Ward already sits on the Foothills/ Eastern Transportation Agency board.
WHAT’S NEXT: To view the alignment proposals, visit www.getmovingoc.com/ ideas. Videos taken during the hike will also be provided in this article at www. sanclementetimes.com. The next TCA Joint Board meeting will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 12, at the TCA headquarters, located at 125 Pacifica in Irvine. —Eric Heinz
end up at I-5 near Avenida Pico.
As a joint powers authority, the TCA does have the ability to condemn areas and file for eminent domain, or the taking of property for public use.
The City Council voted at its Sept. 19 meeting to approve the initiation process of making a park in an open space area at the corner of Camino Vera Cruz and Avenida Vista Hermosa. The park is located in an area of the toll road proposal.
This, Donchak said, could deter the TCA from constructing a toll road through the east end of the city.
“As part of the (Beaches, Parks and Recreation) Master Plan…it’s been used as staging area,” Donchak said. “Our desire is to upgrade the quality of that open space so that it’s more accessible to the community. And it elevates the value of the open space to the community.”
Donchak said that Measure V was brought to the voters in an effort to keep the toll road out of the city, and they are now seeing what power that ballot initiative gives the city and what power the state has to initiate eminent domain. She said the city has also been in contact with Congressman Darrell Issa, the County Board of Supervisors and state representatives regarding these issues.
According to a staff report on the initiation, the park designation does not have to go to a ballot vote because it would promote recreational activities under Measure V.
Mayor Kathy Ward said at a recent Council meeting that one of the proposed alignments appears to be closer to the high school, located at 700 Avenida Pico, and the I-5 freeway in order to complete the 241 extension.
During that same meeting, the City Council voted to appoint Steve Swartz to the TCA board on the San Joaquin Hills
THE LATEST: The settlement terms between the city of San Clemente and Sovereign Health, as well as Vedanta Laboratories, were made effective on Sept. 5 and laid out a legal path moving forward between the municipality and the behavioral health treatment provider.
Lawsuits were filed by the entities involved in late 2015 after the city approved a moratorium of the establishment of short-term lodging units, which the Council believed had enough language in it to include sober living and residential treatment homes and similar operations within certain areas of San Clemente. The law was expected to be temporary until the city could find a solution to regulate such residences and commercial facilities in a way that didn’t violate federal housing laws.
Vedanta Laboratories is Sovereign’s main resource for toxicology orders for its clients and was involved with the Sovereign lawsuit.
The city’s suit focused on multiple citations issued to Sovereign Health’s temporary residences, while Sovereign sued in federal court against the city’s restrictions on additional establishments.
Some of the notable details of the settlement include the city relinquishing all debt collection against Sovereign “related to unpaid administrative citations” at Sovereign’s residences and its headquarters.
Sovereign will be allowed to operate no more than 12 residential houses for the first 18 months of the agreement, other than the residences licensed by the state of California to provide such housing for six or fewer residents. After that time, they can apply to have 18 residences. But that number can be reduced by one for excessive violations of the city’s current ordinances.
The residences it operates still cannot be less than 300 feet from one another.
WHAT’S NEXT: Sovereign will be able to continue to operate its current facilities for the next three years, and the city agreed that its current facilities fit within the ordinances. The city’s ordinances that it
passed in 2015 and extended in 2016 will stay intact.
Sovereign’s main headquarters, located at 1211 Puerta del Sol, will be allowed to continue its onsite behavioral health and mental health treatment services until March 2019, and then if the agreement is extended, it may continue to provide group counseling until September 2020.
“As a condition precedent to such extension…and as part of Sovereign Health’s commitment to be a good neighbor, Sovereign Health agrees to provide the city with an operations plan for its headquarters,” the agreement stated. The operations plan must outline the methods Sovereign Health will conduct for counseling services and appointments, as well as set parameters for handling of medical waste, designated smoking areas, transportation of its clients and more. The plan must be completed and submitted by the city within six months.
Part of the “good neighbor” arrangement requires Sovereign to provide an onsite manager 24 hours a day at the residential homes, at the request of the city or one of the neighboring residents’ request. In June, Sovereign was subjected to FBI search raids, and the nature of the investigation is still sealed by a federal judge. Sovereign recently filed to have the federal search warrants unsealed by the presiding judge.
FIND OUT MORE: Visit this article at www. sanclementetimes.com to see the settlement agreement in its entirety. A full list of Sovereign’s commercial and residential facilities is provided in the agreement.
—EH
THE LATEST: On Monday, Oct. 2, State Assemblyman Bill Brough and State Senator Patricia Bates, in partnership with the Capistrano Unified School District and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, will host a presentation on the “opioid and heroin crisis” in South Orange County, and how it affects local families.
The event will run from 6-8 p.m. at the San Juan Hills High School Performing Arts Center, located at 29211 Stallion Ridge in San Juan Capistrano. Speakers will include representatives from OCSD, U.S. Border Patrol, the Orange County Health Care Agency, Capistrano Unified School District and UCI Medical Center. Assistance resources and experts will also be on hand at the event.
(Cont. on page 4)
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WHAT’S NEXT: Those interested in attending can RSVP at the following website: bit. ly/2h52f3v, or call 949.347.7301.
—Allison Jarrell
THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) cut the ribbon on 24 new classrooms at San Clemente High School on Sept. 21. The new classrooms are equipped with what CUSD officials called “state-of-the-art technology.” Students will be able to use computers as the teachers transmit lessons using tablets.
Each of the classrooms is able to sustain about 30 students per class.
The new classrooms cost $14 million, which was funded by community district taxes.
WHAT’S NEXT: A full rendering of the San Clemente High School construction plans for the near future is available at a link on this article at www.sanclementetimes. com. The school has a total of $91 million in improvements planned for the near future, which includes a new performing arts center, locker room expansions and remodeling, a new 50-meter Olympic-size swimming pool, a new student services building and more. —EH
THE LATEST: Two local pastors from Kingdom Builders Ministry, based in San Clemente, are voyaging to Mexico to work with volunteers from the Ministerios Transformacion church network in Tijuana. They will travel to Oaxca to help
a “remote village in Mexico that has been devastated by the earthquakes and aftershocks,” according to a press release from Kingdom Builders Ministry.
The village of Juchitán de Zaragoza in the state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico experienced about 100 deaths from the two earthquakes that took place in September, according to the release. More earthquakes and aftershocks have been reported since then.
“This remote mountain village is located in the state of Oaxaca where the 8.1 earthquake epicenter was located followed by two more 6.1 aftershocks,” a press release from Ministerios Transformacion stated.
Don Glasgow, a San Clemente resident who makes frequent trips to impoverished areas of Tijuana with Kingdom Builders Ministry, said the network with Ministerios Transformacion has 31 churches that have come together to help.
Daniel “Tury” Nunez, Jr. and Pastor Abraham Velasquez of Kingdom Builders work with the independent church group Ministerios in Tijuana and surrounding areas. They work with the churches to provide resources to people and money “to keep things going.”
“They will be connecting with a local pastor in Oaxaca, and they’ll be doing everything that they need help with,” said Daniel Nunez, the father of “Tury.” “We want to be able to keep helping in the future and help rebuild homes. It all depends on how much we can raise.”
WHAT’S NEXT: Velasquez and Tury will travel to Juchitán de Zaragoza on Thursday, Oct. 5. To donate to the organization, visit the GroupRev link in this story at www.sanclementetimes.com. Donations can also be made by visiting the Kingdom Builders Ministry website or by check payable to Kingdom Builders Ministry, PO Box 74812, San Clemente, CA 92673 and write “earthquake” in memo section. —EH
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
HALF-PRICE MEMBERS SALE
9 a.m.-1 p.m. The San Clemente Friends of the Library will host its members half-price sale. People can sign up for membership onsite to receive half off their entire purchase. 242 Avenida Del Mar. 949.492.3493. www.ocpl.org/ liboc/sc.
DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3
SUNRISE ROTARY
7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Course Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega. www.scsunriserotary.com.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
6 p.m. The San Clemente City Council will conduct its regularly scheduled meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio, City Council Chambers. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.
BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING
7-9 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4
KIWANIS SAN CLEMENTE
Noon. Kiwanis San Clemente works to help maintain the quality of life for all people through volunteerism. Tommy’s Restaurant, 1409 S. El Camino Real. 949.366.5423. www.sanclementekiwanis.com.
NORTH BEACH FARMERS’ MARKET
3-6:30 p.m. The Market at North Beach features vendors of food, jewelry and other wares, and there could be live music. 1501 N. El Camino Real.
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
6 p.m. The Planning Commission will conduct its regularly scheduled meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio. City Council Chambers. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.
an Clemente-born-and-raised painter Dana Richardson will showcase her latest oil paintings at Discover Emerging Artists Showcase in Laguna Beach. The opening reception is from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 5, and is part of the Laguna Beach First Thursday’s Art Walk. Since graduating from Orange County High School of the Arts, Richardson has worked as a full-time artist and filmmaker. She is an award-winning painter, best known for her sustainably made oil paints, using earth pigments.
Richardson’s paintings currently on display in Laguna Beach portray female figures as “larger than life, erupting from the cityscape, expressing women’s strength and ability to rise above circumstances.”
Richardson was selected to be the featured artist for the month of October. Her paintings will be on display at Discover Emerging Artists Showcase, 1400 S. Coast Highway, Suite 101 located at in Laguna Beach from Oct. 5-Nov. 1. SC
COMPILED BY STAFF
San Clemente Ocean Festival foundation, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, is accepting requests for donations through Oct. 27.
The donations will support ocean safety, the environment and the community through funds earned by providing a quality athletic, cultural and family event at the annual San Clemente Ocean Festival.
According to representatives, the foundation has donated more than $400,000 to local organizations and schools, as well as college scholarships to students in the area since 1993. The focus of fundraising is for local ocean and beach-related needs. For guidelines or to apply for a grant, visit www.oceanfestival.org.
Tickets for Carnival Colossal and Food Truck Festival
The Carnival Colossal and Food Truck Festival is coming to San Clemente from Oct. 12-15 with carnival rides, food trucks, entertainment and Scottish strong man competitions. The Friends of San Clemente Foundation is selling discount ticket books in advance, which allows people to save 66 to 75 percent, getting eight rides for $10. Regular prices are $3.75 to $5 each. Tickets are available at San Clemente City
Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio; the Community Center, 100 North Calle Seville; Friends of San Clemente Foundation, 910 Calle Negocio, Suite 101, (call ahead to 949.276.8866); San Clemente Aquatic Center, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa; Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, 1304 Calle Valle; and the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, 1231 Puerta Del Sol, Suit No. 200.
Proceeds from the carnival benefit the Friends of San Clemente Foundation, a nonprofit organization that supports the city’s recreational programs, events and activities with help from sponsors, volunteers and partners.
According to a press release, Valero Gas Station’s annual Penny per Gallon fundraiser helps support these programs through the Friends of San Clemente Foundation. Valero has been a dedicated “friend” of the Foundation since 2013, donating over $13,000 toward scholarships for local youth, so they can participate in the city’s recreation programs, such as Swim & Learn, Goal Zone Sports and after hours programs vital to keeping kids engaged in healthy activities.
For more information, visit www.friendsofsanclemente.org or call 949.276.8866.
Join the San Clemente High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) fundraiser at Panera Bread all day on Wednesday, Oct.4. Bring the flier, found on the websites below, into Panera (at Talega or Outlets at San Clemente) and 20 percent of proceeds will be donated to the FCA
club. Visit www.ocfca.org or www.mannadevelopment.com for more information.
Shopping Extravaganza Takes Place Oct. 7 at Outlets at San Clemente
The third annual Shopping Extravaganza at Outlets at San Clemente will take place on Saturday, Oct. 7. Your ticket will include a $25 donation to the charity of your choice, exclusive discounts, entertainment, a wine and cocktail tastings and a catered lunch. There will be $40,000 in prizes. Last year’s event raised more than $42,000 for 25 local nonprofits. This year’s event has 38 local nonprofits participating. For more information, visit www.outletsatsanclemente.com.
The San Clemente High School Dance Team’s fall children’s dance clinic is scheduled for 9 a.m.-12:15 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, at San Clemente High School, located at 700 Avenida Pico. The clinic costs $40 per child and is open to children ages 5 to 11. Participants will learn a jazz/hip-hop routine with instruction from SCHS dance team members. Parents are invited to return for a special performance. For more information, visit www.schsdanceteam. com.
Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.
SanClemente
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
phone 949.388.7700
fax 949.388.9977
www.sanclementetimes.com
CITY EDITOR
Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com
SPORTS Steve Breazeale, 949.388.7700, x110 sbreazeale@picketfencemedia.com
ADVERTISING
PRINT AND ONLINE
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Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com
BUSINESS MANAGER
Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com
PICKET FENCE MEDIA
PUBLISHER
Norb Garrett
EDITORIAL
Group Managing Editor
> Rachael Mattice
City Editor, SC Times
> Eric Heinz
City Editor, DP Times
> Daniel Ritz
City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch
> Allison Jarrell
Sports Editor
> Steve Breazeale
Special Projects Editor
> Andrea PapagianisCamacho
ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING
Associate Publisher
> Lauralyn Loynes
> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)
> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)
Real Estate Sales Manager
> Michele Reddick
ART/DESIGN
Art Director
> Jasmine Smith
OPERATIONS
Finance Director
> Mike Reed
Business Manager
> Alyssa Garrett
Accounting & Distribution Manager
> Tricia Zines
SPECIAL THANKS
Robert Miller
CONTRIBUTORS
Megan Bianco
Tim Trent
Jake Howard
San Clemente Times, Vol. 12, Issue 39. The SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (www. danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www. thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
FOLLOW THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The recent hurricane disasters of hurricanes Harvey and Irma are unprecedented in terms of natural disasters, economic losses, personal losses and property damage both personal and public. More recently, the earthquakes in Mexico added to this. Certainly, the loss of life in these events is regrettable, but does not approach the loss of life experienced in wartime over the years—both foreign and domestic—during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars in our country.
Even though the vast majority of our population was not directly affected by the hurricanes, we were made and felt “a part of these events.” This was accomplished through the phenomena or medium known as television. With constant 24-hour-a-day coverage over both national and local TV as well as the internet, we were all made part of these events—literally, it’s as if we were and still are actually there.
As these events continued over the weeks, I began to think of such visual and public knowledge of such events in my earlier years. In fact, it did not exist.
As I reminisced about these earlier years the only “news media” were radio and print, daily newspapers and periodic magazines with some pictures. For our younger generations today, they need only ask, “How would these recent events have impacted us if only heard on the radio or
WE ARE BEING HELD HOSTAGE
TIM GARRETT, San Clemente
The Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) toll road proposals and the claim of reducing traffic is a complete and utter farce. The only things this is doing is crushing our property values and holding our town hostage. We’ve been trying to sell our home in The Reserve East in an attempt to downsize. After 100 days on the market, we finally got a fair offer from a family outside the area. We made the assumption they knew about the toll road with all the hype around it, but they did not. In the midst of misinformation and fear around it they ended up dropping out of the sale.
The toll road hype is literally costing us hundreds of thousands of dollars. Obviously, we’re not the only ones in this situation. Anyone who is on the proposed paths is being affected dramatically. The reality is
seen in limited print?”
Thinking back, TV did not come into public existence until midway through my college years, the early 1950s, and even then it was very limited. Advancing into the late 1950s and 1960s, it remained so. I recall living in Hawaii in the late 1950s and 1960 and the only activity was local events. It was so restricted that we did not even own a TV set. Of course, broader film was flown in from the mainland, but was received with little interest or economic benefit.
When TV sets finally became more available, they were routinely structured to show blackand-white images only, no color. When color emerged, it was routine to be asked, “Do you want black and white or color?” When color did emerge, a set that costs around $500 today was $3,500. Of course, we use only real-life color today.
The point of all of this background is to illustrate and emphasize the impact of what real-time color TV—visual media—has on our lives and how it can be the catalyst in bringing us all together as Americans and what our American values mean. The response to the hurricanes has crossed ethnic, racial and national dimensions, and even though fringe elements
the toll road can only create more traffic by putting more cars on the road that will be pinched going into and out of Camp Pendleton.
We’re sorry, Surfrider Foundation, but you did not finish the job. I was active in helping you fight that fight. You may have protected a critical area, but all you really did was create a wall to force the snake to go on another path right through a historic town. Please don’t hide behind that agreement, as it looks like you have been paid off and do not care for everybody else that was supporting you through your initial fight. Help us take the head off of the snake. The TCA must be stopped!
The TCA is not here to relieve traffic, it is here to build toll roads seemingly at any cost. Toll roads have proven to be unbelievably ineffective, as they are extremely expensive to use and use is purely for overflow situations. Think about who the toll road really helps and really hurts. It only helps developers put more homes and more cars on its path, but it devastates existing property values, creates more pollution, and the environmental impacts are irreversible.
remain, many of these barriers have been erased, with diverse races helping each other, varied nationalities putting differences aside to help the needy, and specific religious demands resulting in a single common effort to assist those in need.
Most recently, particularly this past weekend, has been the role of the visual media in exposing the conflict around the behavior of so many of the National Football League (NFL) players during the opening ceremonies of games. Much of this is a response to the behavior of our national leadership; however, it vividly illustrates the role of the visual media in shaping all of our beliefs, values and lives. Again, while our younger generations cannot appreciate the impact of the visual media the same way in which the older generations can, those of us in the older generations will probably agree that it is one of a few major factors in shaping all of our lives worldwide.
Lew Avera is a retired career officer, Lt. Col., U.S. Marine Corps. He was a director of the Talega HOA and served on the San Clemente Planning Commission from 20052013. SC
The toll road has reared its ugly head to devastate our property value. The fight is not over. Please get active and kill this toll road.
BILL HEZZELWOOD, San Clemente
I’ll admit that I haven’t followed all the ideas that have been suggested for extending the 241 Toll Road, so I apologize if this is repetitious. As I understand it, the original plan for the 241 going back to the very early planning days called for it to follow the route that has now been rejected by the “Protective Agreement” between the Save San Onofre Coalition and the TCA, which grew out of concern for the San Mateo Creek watershed and the San Onofre State Park.
Why not consider putting the 241 through a tunnel along essentially the same route? It could go underground before it even arrives at the creek and resurface on the south side of Interstate 5 just in time to make a left turn and merge to the southbound lanes. Northbound traffic could enter the tunnel from the north
side of I-5. My rough estimate is that such a tunnel would be about five miles long. I’m pretty sure the tunnel in Northern California that will carry water under the delta will be at least that long. Just a thought.
AREN’T
JENIFER MASSEY, San Clemente
As a long-time resident of San Clemente (four decades), I was horrified at what I learned at the recent Southern California Edison Community Engagement Panel meeting. Edison is getting ready to start loading platinum and uranium nuclear waste into thin canisters and then place them at ground level one hundred feet from the San Onofre beachfront. There will be a total of almost 2,000 tons of nuclear material stored indefinitely in 123 canisters. At the meeting, people referred to them as “Chernobyl Canisters” because each one can release more radioactive fallout than the entire Chernobyl catastrophe that spread radioactive contamination over much of Europe. What will it mean to all of us and our children who will be condemned to live next to a nuclear waste dump?
“ Why aren’t
there
mas-
sive public protests about this? Why is there no progress in getting the waste moved to a safer area out of earthquake fault zones, population concentrations and away from easy attacks by terrorists?
”
As a licensed real estate broker here for over two decades, I am also horrified by what the perception of possible radioactive fallout might do to all property values in this area. People don’t seem to realize how serious this is for the future of San Clemente. And if there is a catastrophic event either soon or decades from now, all property could become worthless because no insurance covers radioactive fallout. Evacuation would not work because you can’t run away from radiation. San Clemente could become a forbidden zone of
exclusion where no one is allowed to live (just like Fukushima).
Why aren’t there massive public protests about this? Why is there no progress in getting the waste moved to a safer area out of earthquake fault zones, population concentrations and away from easy attacks by terrorists? Why do we allow authorities in government and the nuclear industry to get away with building a nuclear waste dump in zip code 92672? Everyone should study www.sanonofresafety.org and get involved in protesting this monstrosity that threatens the future of Southern California.
LUPE INFRAINE, Laguna Beach
We are a nation of special observances. There is even a World Day for Farm Animals, observed on Oct. 2 (Gandhi’s birthday). Apparently it’s intended to memorialize the tens of billions of animals abused and killed for food.
Like most others, I always thought of farm animals as “food on the hoof.” But when a friend sent me an amazing, endearing Facebook video, it dawned on me that farm animals are much like our family dog, fully deserving of our compassion and respect.
My internet search showed that they get neither. Male baby chicks are routinely suffocated in plastic garbage bags or ground up alive. Laying hens are crowded into small wire cages that tear out their feathers. Breeding sows are kept pregnant in tiny metal crates. Dairy cows have their babies snatched away immediately upon birth, so we can drink their milk.
It was enough to drive someone to drink. Instead, it drove me to replace the animal products in my diet with a rich variety of plant-based meats and dairy items offered by my grocery store. I have since learned that a cruelty-free diet is also great for my health and for the health of our planet.
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.
Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, September 29 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso
Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Eric Heinz every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.
SanClemente
What’s going on in and around town this week
COMPILED BY STAFF
Thursday | 28
UKULELE LESSONS FOR CHILDREN
4-5 p.m. For children ages 8-13, Heritage Christian Fellowship, along with Musical Mentors, is offering free ukulele lessons. Loaner instruments will be provided, and children who complete their practice and attendance requirements will be awarded their ukulele to keep at the end of the program. Classes begin Thursday, Sept. 28 and run every Thursday (except Thanksgiving) until Dec. 14. Heritage Christian Fellowship, at 190 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. 949.361.1022. www.heritagesc.org.
BELLANTE WINERY TASTING EVENT
7:30-10:30 p.m. Bellante Winery will feature different wines for sampling. Prices are $25 and includes light appetizers. Barnoa Wine Bar. 831 Via Suerte, No. 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.
RUN CLUB THURSDAYS
6 p.m. Doing your first 5K or your 50th marathon? Run with other new and experienced runners from 2XU at the Outlets to the end of the Pier and back (about 4 miles) every Thursday. Post-run goodies provided by 2XU. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.558.5054. www.facebook.com/2xusanclemente.
SUMMER NIGHTS JAZZ SERIES
6 p.m. Elizabeth Lamers will host an album debut party. Tickets are $10 at the door or online. Casino San Clemente, 140 W. Avenida Pico. 949.369.6600. www.thecasinosanclemente.com.
Friday | 29
BE A HERO, BECOME A DONOR BLOOD DRIVE
8 a.m.-1 p.m. The San Clemente High School organization Be a Hero, Become a Donor will host a blood drive at the high school. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.492.4165. www.sctritons.com.
LIVE MUSIC: THE MARK & LOREN-INTERNATIONAL GUITAR DUO
7 p.m. Loren Barrigar and Mark Mazengarb will perform live. Tickets are $30. The doors open at 7 p.m. with the show beginning at 7:30 p.m. Dana Point Community House. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point. www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.
EDITOR’S PICK
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1: SAN CLEMENTE SEAFEST
9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Connoisseurs of clam chowder will congregate at the Pier for the 30th Annual San Clemente SeaFest. The day includes food from the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar, business exposition, an arts and craft show, children and teen contests, entertainment and a U.S. coast guard search and rescue demo operation at the San Clemente Pier. 949.492.1131. www.scchamber.com.
LIVE THEATER: ‘DRACULA’
8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents Dracula, an exciting show for all who love thrills in the theater. Undeniably entertaining and exhilarating, this play is appropriate for all ages, but still has enough scary moments to keep even jaded grown-ups on the edge of their seats. Tickets are $27-$37. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www. caminorealplayhouse.org.
LIVE THEATER: ‘CABARET’
8 p.m. Forget your troubles and head to the Cabaret at the Cabrillo Playhouse. Cabaret explores the crazy and tumultuous life of Cliff, a young American writer and English singer Sally Bowles as they become friends and enjoy the bohemian lifestyle of the final days of Germany’s Republic. Ticket $20-$25. The show continues through Oct. 8. Cabrillo Playhouse. 202 Avenida Carbillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.
Saturday | 30
AN AFTERNOON OF AYURVEDA
1-4 p.m. Join Sandhiya for an engaging and inspirational talk on Ayurveda. Those who attend will learn about the basic concepts and how mind-body influences health. Tickets are $45 in advance, $55 the day of. iHeartYoga. 34485 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.
SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN
2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Flock of 80’s performs, followed by Honky Tonk Kings at 8:30 p.m. Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.
BARRE3 IN THE PARK
3-4 p.m. Join the second annual Barre3 in the Park class. Take the class and stay for a healthy snack, a braid barre and some raffle prizes. Proceeds benefit Wounded Veterans Initiative for Canine Companionship. Register at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point.
LIVE MUSIC: CUBENSISTRIBUTE TO THE GRATEFUL DEAD
9 p.m. The band Cubensis will perform. 21 and over. Tickets are $10. OC Tavern, 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.542.8877. www.octavern.com.
Sunday | 01
VILLAGE ART FAIRE
9 a.m.-3 p.m. Every first Sunday of the month, along Avenida Del Mar in charming downtown San Clemente, the Village Art Faire offers an array of work handcrafted by artisans, including fine art, jewelry, woodwork, fused and blown glass, sculpture, ceramics, home decor, candles, knits, botanicals and more. 949.395.7008. www.villagesanclemente.org
DANA POINT ARTFEST
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Join the community celebration of fine art, music, food and more in the Lantern District. There will be artwork for sale, live jazz and blues music and food from local restaurants along Del Prado between the arch to Golden Lantern. For more information, visit www.dpartfest.com.
LIVE MUSIC: BIG OPEN SKY
5 p.m. Listen to live music at StillWater Spirit and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. www.danapointstillwater.com.
ORANGE COUNTY WINE CRUISE
5:30 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard the luxury catamaran. The cruises run Friday and Sunday evenings. Tickets are $49. Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.
Monday | 02
LAUGHS FOR LEATHERNECKS 5:30 p.m. Join the comedic event to raise money for the Dana Point 5th Marine Regiment Support Group. Tickets are $35 and those who cannot attend can sponsor a Marine to attend. Irvine Improv. 31 Fortune Drive, Suite 216, Irvine. www.danapoint5thmarines.com.
(Cont. on page 10)
(Cont. from page 8)
FREE GUITAR LESSONS
5-6 p.m. Free beginner level acoustic guitar lessons for middle school to college age youth every Monday. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.
YOGA IN THE PARK
5:30 p.m. Join iHeartYoga for yoga in the park every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Bring a mat, water bottle and suggested donation of $8. Lantern Bay Park. 25111 Park Lantern, Dana Point. www.iheartyoga.org.
Tuesday | 03
TODDLER STORYTIME
10:30 a.m. Children under 3 and their families will enjoy stories, activities and songs. Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.
OPEN MIC NIGHT
6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
KARAOKE AT GOODY’S
8 p.m. Karaoke every Tuesday night at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.
FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB
2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.
READ TO A DOG
3 p.m. Children can read to therapy dogs who love to listen to stories at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point. 949.496.5517.
FREE COMEDY AT BLOOM’S IRISH SPORTS BAR
8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Bloom’s Irish Sports Bar with food and drink specials. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120.
OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS
9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.
HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to San Clemente Times by going to www.sanclementetimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.
BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
As is the case with every comedian who gains superstardom, there comes a point in the middle of their career where they have to figure out where to take the next step before their shtick becomes overexposed. Some crossover into dramas—like Robin Williams or Jim Carrey—or choose to be low-key in indie flicks, as did Kristen Wiig. Ben Stiller has smartly chosen to find his mid-career niche with dramedies. This year he has similarly themed family pieces with The Meyerowitz Stories and Brad’s Status, the latter now in theaters. On the eve of his son Troy’s (Austin Abrams) college touring trip, Brad Sloan (Stiller) suddenly has a mid-life crisis sprung upon him. He wonders if he made the right decision living modestly in the suburbs with his family while running a nonprofit charity organization. He starts to feel insecure about how his college friends ended up more successful and happier with their lives. He’s even feeling self-conscious over his son possibly being more gifted than he is.
Clement appear as Brad’s old friends. Brad’s Status is written and directed by Mike White, and is essentially another piece on a middle-aged man’s neurosis over being past his youth. But this time it refreshingly focuses on his relationships with friends and his son, rather than having the lead just hook-up with a much younger woman, which has become such a cliché in this genre. Brad’s Status is quaint and light-hearted, with some fine performances from Stiller and Abrams. SC
More than $130,000 was raised on Sept. 23 at this year’s Toast to the Casa, which will provide funding for programs for the garden and cultural center.
Ron and Margaret Redmond honored at 15th annual Toast to the Casa
AND
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
This year’s Toast to the Casa fundraiser gathered more than $130,000 to “continue to provide award-winning artistic and educational programs,” representatives said.
The annual Casa Romantica event helps raise funds for the foundation’s arts and children’s programs as well as fund maintenance of the garden and cultural center.
The honorary chairs at this year’s 15th annual Toast were Ron and Margaret Redmond.
“The Redmond’s participated in Casa Romantica’s initial renovation and the first Capital Campaign to transform Casa Romantica into the hub of culture it is today,” a press release from the Casa stated. “Ron Redmond, DDS, MS, FACD, is a past
President of the Casa Romantica Board of Trustees, and the couple continues to be involved by underwriting the annual Casa Romantica Music Festival and Academy for children. The Redmond’s are active philanthropists for the arts and for medicine throughout Southern California, and have improved thousands of lives via Redmond Orthodontics, the family practice, that they founded over four decades ago.”
The theme of this year’s Toast was Crystal Ball: Fortune Favors the Brave, which incorporated various elements of fate and clairvoyance in its entertainment.
The 2017-2018 season includes nearly 100 performances, concerts, exhibitions, lectures, workshops and events for people of all ages. SC
In my 23 years of writing newspaper columns and newsletters, one of the most curious and frequent comments I receive from seniors reentering the dating world is: “I look (number) years younger than my age.” They fill in the blank with a number—it’s often 10—but can be more. While women are more likely to make the comment that they look younger than men, some guys still do it.
Sometimes, children, grandchildren or friends of singles tell the singles that they look younger than their age, hoping to motivate them to get out and date.
Chuck, a widower who lost his wife of 40 years nearly two years ago, said, “I’m in my 70s, but I look like I’m in my 60s.”
By Tom Blake
My answer to Chuck: “Regarding your age, we’ll let the women you meet decide how old they think you are. Looks are in the eyes of the beholder.”
Dave, who turns 82 this week and is also a widower, wrote, “My cardiac surgeon calls me his 65-year-old, 82-year-old. I’m blessed with my mother’s genes.”
On my FindingLoveAfter50.com website, I posted a poem that Dave sent me when he was 81. The introduction to the poem indicates his age. This week, he wrote, “Would you please remove my age from the introduction? Stating my age has no relevance.”
At least he didn’t ask me to lower it. Apparently, he refers single women to his poem on the website, but doesn’t want them to know his true age. Regarding this week’s birthday, he said: “It’s like turning a young 72.”
Wouldn’t it just be easier to state his true age and convince women via his activities and physical fitness that he doesn’t act 82? Les, 91, San Clemente widower, has no qualms about revealing his age. He’s a highly decorated World War II veteran and proud of it. He lets his photograph do the talking. When I showed friends his picture, they said, “Les is very handsome; he looks about 80.”
Les added, “Tom, remember, I am 91. I’m slowing down, but I do enjoy going places.”
Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler, 69, doesn’t worry about his age and how he looks. His girlfriend, Aimee, 28, is 40-years younger than Tyler. Aimee is more than a decade younger than his eldest daughter, Liv, who is 40. For Tyler, it’s not how young he thinks he looks, it’s what he does with his life that matters.
A man named Larry emailed and said, “I have dated women 10 to 23 years younger for my entire life and would not want to
meet a woman my age. Having perused the dating sites for four years, virtually all women listed think they look much younger than their age. Let me assure you, they don’t. Fortunately, I still have the physique of an athlete, and younger women continue to find me attractive.”
Oh my.
This week, a woman named Judy emailed and said, “I am 74, but look 64. I would like to meet somebody who is trustworthy and enjoys the beach. Divorced several years, but not able to find a match. Please help me find that special someone.”
Judy’s comment made me think of the refrain from the Beatles song, “When I’m Sixty-Four.”
“Will you still need me, will you still feed me? When I’m sixty-four.”
Judy should forget how old she looks and simply get involved with activities she enjoys and get out of the house and meet new people. In that way, she might capture the eye of a nice man who, when he sees her in person, won’t care that she’s 74.
“ ...it’s your positive attitude and how young you think and how you tackle the adversities life has placed in front of you that determine your attractiveness. ”
Why do so many senior singles say they look younger than they are? Probably because they hope they’ve still got what it takes to reel in a mate.
Another man wrote, “I am 63, but feel 43.” He did not say he looks 43, he simply said he feels 43. Now, that’s different. For senior daters, it’s not how old you think you look that is important, it’s your positive attitude and how young you think and how you tackle the adversities life has placed in front of you that determine your attractiveness. It’s what’s inside that counts.
Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites at www.findingloveafter50. com; www.vicsta.com and www.travelafter55. com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com. SC
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
The face of the San Clemente Pier has changed quite a bit since it was built nearly 90 years ago. The Pier continues to be one of the city’s most treasured icons. Today, there are organizations such as PierPride that are working to keep the structure maintained.
Every week, the San Clemente Times will publish a historical photo. Online, SC Times will create a gallery of the month’s photos. To submit your historical photos, please provide information about the photo along with your name for credit to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.
BY MYLES MELLOR
Last week’s solution:
Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.
Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium
Looking for a furry friend but short on space? Perhaps a petite pet would suit your needs. Frank the hamster has a big personality in a teensy, tiny package! You will just love watching him run on his hamster wheel and stuffing his cute little cheeks with seeds. Once you meet Frank, he’s sure to win your heart.
If you would like to know more about Frank, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC
BY STEVE BREAZEALE,
The Pacific Paddle Games are four days away and San Clemente’s Candice Appleby is sitting on the patio of a local café, buzzing with excitement at the prospects of competing. As she sits down for a quick breakfast of broccoli salad and scrambled eggs, she highlights the importance of the weekend on the professional stand-up paddleboard (SUP) calendar.
“It’s like our Super Bowl,” she says.
Appleby is the two-time defending champion at the Games, which will take place this weekend at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point. It’s the SUP season’s biggest event, with the deepest talent pool vying for the most prize money the SUP athletes will see all season.
As she contemplates her chances at a three-peat and reflects on her stellar career, she outlines how a younger, less experienced version of herself might not have enjoyed the buildup to such a big race.
The 32-year-old SUP legend is enjoying a career renaissance after several seasons spent battling injuries and personal issues, but is racing and competing with a new outlook on life that is paying dividends both in and out of the water.
Appleby’s internal drive to be the best in everything she does put her at the top of the ranks in stand-up paddleboard.
From 2008 to 2012, she won a combined 63 worldwide professional SUP surf and race titles. She was ranked as high as No. 1 in the world and was the face of the sport. Fans would look on from the sand as she hoisted one trophy after another and see a sparkling smile.
But as the wins piled up, that smile— which used to indicate pure bliss and exhilaration—became a mask for something else.
Throughout her 20’s the thrill of winning had vanished for Appleby. The relief of not losing a race had taken its place.
“It was this identity crisis of ‘If I’m not number one, what am I?,’” Appleby explained. “I was putting my complete identity in paddling to the point that I was so stressed out about the possibility of getting second (place) that when I won, all I felt was relief. I didn’t feel joy.”
Appleby’s situation came to a boiling point in the buildup to the 2012 Battle of the Paddle at Salt Creek Beach. She was going for her fifth consecutive elite wom-
en’s title and she was feeling the pressure. She was competing injured, relying on cortisone shots to her left hand to numb the pain of soft tissue damage. In the back of her mind she knew she needed surgery, but competed regardless.
She ended up getting knocked off her board in the decisive race, losing to her top rival, Annabel Anderson of New Zealand. Out of the water, Appleby was in an abusive relationship which, coupled with the injuries and disappointment of mixed results, forced her to put the paddle aside.
“I was really able to do some soul searching,” Appleby said of that offseason.
Appleby has a devout Christian faith and found the peace she was looking for while listening to a sermon in church just a short time later. The sermon, Appleby
The Pacific Paddle Games, the largest celebration of stand-up paddleboarding in the sport, will take place at Doheny State Beach Saturday, Sept. 30, to Sunday, Oct. 1.
The Pacific Paddle Games offers a wide range of options for paddlers looking for competition, whether they are novices or world-class SUP racers.
The event will offer technical and distance races for both professionals and open divisions. There will be professional junior and youth races and prone division races.
The competition kicks off on Saturday with the professional men’s technical trial rounds at 8 a.m. and there will be races until
explained, revolved around God’s acceptance of each individual.
“(The sermon) just spoke to my heart,” Appleby said. “I realized my identity was in what Christ says I am, not in a worldly victory of winning a race or losing a race. I can’t put my identity in something that can easily be taken away from me.”
Reinvigorated, and healthy, Appleby returned to racing. She no longer feared a second or third-place finish. She was able to paddle with a mind free of doubt.
She went on to win the women’s elite race at the 2014 Battle of the Paddle.
At the inaugural Pacific Paddle Games in 2015, Appleby was crowned the women’s champion. She defended her title in 2016 and could go for a rare three-peat this weekend.
5:50 p.m. The open division distance races jumpstart Sunday’s offerings and the final awards ceremony will take place at 5 p.m.
Pacific Paddle Games will feature a $60,000 prize pool, which is the largest on the professional SUP calendar.
There will also be a large demo zone and clinics on-site.
While the professional race registration is closed, paddlers hoping to compete in open divisions can still sign up. SUP riders are asked to register before the 9 p.m. deadline on Friday, Sept. 22. There will be no on-site registration. For more information or to register, visit www.ppg.supthemag.com.
She has 97 professional wins in both the SUP surf and racing disciplines in a career that has spanned nearly a decade. She has 12 “major” titles, won at the designated high-profile events like Pacific Paddle Games. She is the winningest female SUP racer in the history of the sport.
When asked if she enjoys competing, and winning, now more than she did in, say, 2010, Appleby didn’t hesitate with her answer.
“Definitely … The old me would have felt pressure. I would have felt like this is my race to lose,” Appleby said. “Now I compete from a position of victory. I’d love to be able to stand on top of the podium with the big check, but I know no matter where (God) puts me I’m going to be in acceptance of that … I can’t fail.” SC
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School fall sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.
For the second time in three weeks, the San Clemente High School football team will face an opponent it ousted in a championship game one year ago.
On Friday, Sept. 29, San Clemente will host Edison, the fourth-ranked team in CIF-SS Division 2, at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on Fox Sports West and online at www.foxsports.com.
San Clemente (5-0) beat Edison (3-1) to win the CIF SoCal Regional Championship last season.
On offense, Edison is led by senior quarterback Griffin O’Connor and running back Jack Carmichael. Carmichael is averaging 5.6 yards per carry and just over 100 yards rushing per game.
The Chargers’ defense recorded shutouts in the team’s previous two wins, which came against Canyon (Sept. 8) and San Juan Hills (Sept. 15). Edison had its bye week last week.
San Clemente found itself in a tight ball game last week on the road against Palos Verdes. The Tritons and Palos Verdes were both scoreless at the half, but San Clemente scored touchdowns in the third and fourth quarters to seal a 14-0 win and remain undefeated.
Receiver Chase Berman caught six passes for 129 yards and a score against Palos Verdes. Keith Jones also caught a touchdown.
Quarterback Brendan Costello threw
for 200 yards and two touchdowns and the Triton defense recorded its first shutout in the win.
The strength of the San Clemente girls tennis team’s singles rotation proved to be the difference in a 10-8 South Coast League victory over rival Dana Hills on Sept. 26.
The Tritons’ singles players won six of a possible nine points to help earn the victory.
Home field advantage proved useful to the San Clemente girls golf team last week.
The Tritons hosted 19 other teams from throughout the Southland as part of the Rainbow Sandals-Lady Triton Invitational at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course and placed second.
San Clemente was led by Marianna Gandia-Mak, who carded a 76 (+3) at the 18-hole event and finished third as an individual. Olivia French, Julia Kalez, Aria Dalkas, Maile Benumof and Jessica Cornelius rounded out the Tritons’ team.
ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT
Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program
665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com
AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING
Solstice Heating and Air 2208 El Camino Real, Ste. #1, 949.573.3607, www.solsticehvac.com
APPLIANCES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
ART GALLERIES
San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal Vitality Integrative Chiropractic
647 Camino de los Mares, Suite 220, 949.616.5470, www.spinalvitality.com
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com
CONCRETE
Costa Verde Landscape Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.com
DENTISTS
Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com Shoreline Dental Studio
Kristen Ritzau, DDS 122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.245.6046, www.shorelinedentalstudio.com
EDIBLE LANDSCAPING
Organics Out Back 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com
EDITING SERVICES
Perfectly Clear Editing Services
Judi Heidel: 949.281.6364 www.perfectlycleareditingservices.com
ELECTRICAL
Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com
FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
HOME DÉCOR
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT
Capistrano Valley Raingutters Scott Williams, 949.542.7750
JEWELRY
Paradise Jewelers
166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6661, www.paradisejewelers.com
LANDSCAPING
Costa Verde Landscape
Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
MATTRESSES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
MORTGAGES
Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage 949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com
MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE
SC Rider Supply
520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com
MUSIC LESSONS
Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556, www.danmans.com
OFFICE FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
PET SERVICES/HOUSE SITTING
2-dogswalking.com Ricky, 949.973.4128
Pet care –Insured & Bonded
Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100! Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Contact Debra Wells at 949.388.7700, ext. 104 or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com
PLUMBING
A to Z Leak Detection 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com
Karl Aiken Plumbing-Rooter San Clemente, 949.366.8302
POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL
Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com
REALTORS
Sherry Wild, LuXre Realty BRE # 01480453, 949.275.8937 www.LuXreRealty.com
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
SALONS
Salon Bamboo
150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
Salon Bleu
207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com
Syrens Hair Parlor
217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
SWIMMING SCHOOL
Waterbabies Swim School 142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com
TERMITES
Colony Termite Control 1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT
Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org
DJI Phantom 3 Advanced For Sale By Owner. Asking Price $1,000. Items included: DJI Phantom Advanced 3 Drone, DJI Controller, Polar Pro Controller Anti-Sun Shade, DJI Charger, 5 DJI Batteries!!! LoweProDrone Bag/Backpack Multiple Sets of DJI Propellers Please call (949)350-1312
CUSTOM AREA RUGS
You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks. Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Mike 949-240-1545.
munitygaragesale.com for a list of homes participating.
Celebrating
the life and times
of Ernie Polte, one of San Clemente’s original watermen
BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Things haven’t been the same at the pool lately. The water’s still wet and the laps still long, but we’ve been missing our friend Ernie Polte. Over the years—over a lot of years—Ernie’s been the tie that binds our little aquatic world together. In no uncertain terms, 90-yearold Ernie’s the man.
It must have been about 10 or 12 years ago that I stumbled into Ernie’s sphere of influence, and I’m grateful to say that my life’s never been the same since. At the time, I was working at SURFER Magazine, and after a college water polo career and a stint as an ocean lifeguard, I noticed that the transition to a desk job hadn’t exactly served my midsection well. Trading burrito lunches at Las Golondrinas for swim sessions at the Ole Hanson Beach Club, at noon I started beelining it from the SURFER offices in San Juan Capistrano down PCH to the pool.
One day, after knocking myself back into some semblance of shape, I saw Ernie on the pool deck. “You’re becoming quite a regular around here,” he jested.
That seemed like the highest praise possible from the humble man who was obviously revered and adored by the most elite watermen in town. Originally hailing from Chicago, after being discharged from military service in 1947, Ernie attended Fullerton College, where he played water
ometimes all it takes is just one wave to make a difference. Look no further than Dana Point’s Hayden Homan. Recipient of the Andy Irons Charging award at a recent Dana Point Surf Club contest, 12-year-old Homan wasn’t holding anything back in the challenging three- to four-foot pulses.
“He took off on a dry-rock Creek set wave and with the Chopes air drop into the pit. It was mental,” described club co-founder Eric Diamond. “We wanted all the younger kids in the event to have a crack at it, and Hayden was definitely charging hard.”
As far as what you need to know about the little Dana Point hammer thrower,
polo and set swimming records. He worked as an LA County Lifeguard, and when he graduated from college he took up residence as the swim and water polo coach at Fullerton, where he also taught scuba classes.
“That was the start of it all back in those days, it was all very small,” Ernie once explained. He would go on to compete in over 200 ocean swims (and never finished) worse than third in his age group.
Until earlier this year, when he was diagnosed with late-stage liver cancer, Ernie was still at the pool every day, still fit, cracking one-liners and delighting everyone who had the pleasure of crossing his path. One day I saw him sitting on the edge of the pool, dangling his feet in the water, soaking in the sunshine.
“Time to get in, Ernie,” I joked.
“You know, every time I swim and it’s a nice day like this, I like to take a minute to take a breath. You have to slow yourself down sometimes,” he said. “We really are lucky to live somewhere as beautiful as this.”
Ninety years into a life well-lived and he was still incredibly grateful for just a few minutes of peace and solace in the sun. Therein lies the beauty of Ernie and how he touched so many lives—appreciate the small stuff, appreciate every moment you have, share the joy and splendor with those around you, and don’t be afraid to laugh a little.
As I write this, dear, old Ernie’s sadly gone on hospice care. He’s still sharp as a tack and his wit is as classic as ever, but cancer has seized upon his body. Thankfully, his soul and integrity remain resolute.
At the pool the other day, our regular swim crew was talking about making sure we all paid him a visit and kept him company. Every week in this space I write a riff about the goings on in our local surf community, but this week I’d like to say,
Ernie Polte.
“thank you, Ernie. I’m sure I’m safe in speaking for everyone who ever jumped in the pool or ocean with you over the last 60 or 70 years, the wisdom you’ve shared, the time you’ve spent, the lessons you’ve
Hayden’s pops taught him to surf when he was only five years old. He’s one of the youngest surfers on the Dana Point Surf Club roster, and proof that he’s not fully grown up, he lists his dad among his favorite people to surf with. When it comes to getting psyched on surfing, his favorites include John John Florence, Filipe Toledo
and local boy Kolohe Andino. He’s also a heavy consumer of surf videos for that pre-surf amp.
When asked what it means to be part of the Dana Point Surf Club his answer was spot on: “family, fun and friends!” Keep charging, Hayden! Something tells us you’re just getting warmed up. SC
imparted, the positive role model you’ve been, thank you so very much for all of it. But more than anything, thanks for being my friend.”
We should all aspire to live like Ernie. SC
Water Temperature: 66-69 degrees F
Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-7’ Poor-Fair
Thursday: Minimal mix of S/SSE swell and NW swell. Good spots in the knee-thigh high (1-2’) range, while windswell magnets offer up a few waist high (3’) peaks at times. Light offshore flow early on for clean conditions, then light+ WSW-West winds develop in the afternoon.
Outlook: Surf is mainly waist high and under through the upcoming weekend, off a blend of NW swell and South swell. Morning winds are light offshore with building onshore flow into each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.
