November 30, 2017

EYE ON SC

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Five things San Clemente should know this week

Brush Fire Chars 7 Acres in San Clemente

THE LATEST: A brush fire ignited at about 12:15 p.m. on Nov. 25, in San Clemente on what is regarded as Knob Hill at Calle Del Cerro and Avenida Pico, charring 7 acres of dry shrubbery before it was contained by firefighters.

Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) officials said crews remained on scene for a few hours, and investigators combed the area to determine the cause.

OCFA Capt. Steve Concialdi said 50 firefighters responded to the scene and OCFA and Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) helicopters dropped water on the fire, which was obtained from a pond at Bella Collina San Clemente.

No injuries nor threats to structures were reported. OCSD officials said Calle Del Cerro was reopened later that day, but the right lane of the eastbound side of Avenida Pico and the bike lane were still occupied by fire engines at that time.

WHAT’S NEXT: The cause of the fire was still under investigation as of press time on Nov. 30. —Eric Heinz

Man Pleads Not Guilty to Charges of Meth, Cocaine Possession

worth $500,000

THE LATEST: Ulises Garciasosa, 32, was arrested on Nov. 21 after U.S. Border Patrol agents discovered 93.7 pounds of methamphetamine and 15.6 pounds of cocaine in his vehicle at a gas station on the 2300 block of S. El Camino Real.

“About 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 21, U.S. Border Patrol contacted the suspect at a gas station in San Clemente. The suspect consented to a search of his vehicle,” a press release from Orange County Sheriff’s Department stated. A search of the vehicle resulted in the find. The drugs confiscated from Garciasosa’s car have a wholesale value of about $500,000. Garciasosa was booked on three felonies for transporting meth, possession for sale of a controlled substance and using a compartment to conceal a controlled substance.

WHAT’S NEXT: Garciasosa is scheduled

for a pretrial on Tuesday, Dec. 5 and a preliminary hearing on Thursday, Dec. 7 at the Harbor Justice Center in Newport Beach. He is currently being held on $3 million bail. As of press time, U.S. Border Patrol has not released information regarding where Garciasosa is from. —EH

Details of Toll Road Proposal 14 (Through-Pass) Include Extending I-5, Possible Access Ramps

THE LATEST: Images from the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) show that one of the proposed toll roads through San Clemente—and the most talked about around the city—would require doubling the size of I-5 and could include access ramps throughout its path.

Mark McGuire, a member of the Coalition to Save San Clemente, spoke to City Council on Nov. 21 about a meeting he had with TCA CEO Mike Kraman. During that meeting, Kraman confirmed that should 14 be the selected path, the TCA would have to increase the lanes on I-5.

The significance of this, McGuire said, is that it would undoubtedly require eminent domain to be enacted, especially in southern San Clemente where I-5 abuts the walls of the highway.

WHAT’S NEXT: Scott Smith, the city attorney, said his legal team will present zoning changes related to the toll road proposals.

“We’ve gone through every layer of city general plan enactments, Measure V and land use (documents) and a stack of specific plans that have been adopted,” Smith said. “What we’ve done is gone through any designation of right of way for the 241 extension through San Clemente. And now that the extension is a possibility, we wanted to bring forward those cleanup amendments.”

Smith said they’ve received report support from the homeowner’s associations that own the land, which could be there by year’s end.

The city has also moved to have its lawsuit against the TCA’s process in putting toll roads through San Clemente to Riverside County Court from Orange County, which Smith said would be a “more neutral” court.

The next joint board meeting of the TCA’s Foothill/Eastern and San Joaquin Hills corridor agencies will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 14 at The Toll Roads headquarters, located at 125 Pacifica in Irvine. —EH

City Council Sends Short-Term Rental Ordinance Amendment to Planning Commission

THE LATEST: San Clemente City Council voted on Nov. 21 to send a recommended ordinance amendment to the Planning Commission for discussion on short-term lodging units (STLU) and short-term

apartment rentals (STAR). City Council approved the Planning Commission to take a look at the current ordinances with the specific guidelines that STLU laws related to residential low density zones will not change, to add a parking program for all STLU zones, ensure STAR property managers adhere to the strict 300-foot buffer between one another, to make modifications to density and other issues related to the STLU overlay in the maps (attached to the link on this article online). Council also approved to look at extending the permit amortization period for those who have been in good standing with the city another eight years (bringing the total to 10 years of being permitted). The city’s legal staff will also address issues related to permits obtained by STLU owners that are not being used.

In 2016, the city enacted the STLU ordinances amid hundreds of complaints it had received related to the businesses operating in residential neighborhoods. The idea was that the laws would also curtail the number of sober living residences in the area.

The city currently has 225 registered STLUs and, in Feb. 2016, there were 512 vacation rental permits. The 225 are the only ones that qualified for the permits under the city’s process.

San Clemente resident Anthony Lafrano, who has been vocal in his opposition to short-term lodging since the boon began a few years ago, implored the City Council to make more restrictions.

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EYE ON SC

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“We just want peace,” Lafrano said, adding that the short-term rentals would continue to hamper quality of life in the area. He also commented on the argument saying, “This is a horrible business model and an even worse retirement plan. It’s not the responsibility of the voters of San Clemente to make sure their retirement plan (makes returns.)”

Steve Cortez, who owns a property in the 300 block of West Palizada used for vacation renting, said he has rented to people who are retirees or of similar ilk. The Palizada home is just outside the areas where STLUs are permitted to operate, but Cortez said he has a current permit for it.

Cortez said his permanent residence is in Anaheim.

“When we bought (the property) in San Clemente, we bought it thinking we would retire here, but we also wanted to rent it out for a few weeks,” Cortez said, adding that his tenants frequent the city’s businesses. He said his guests were not the people “who are getting drunk in the street.”

Several more people spoke in favor of and against the extension of STLU allowances.

People who operate STLUs in San Clemente must apply for a permit and pay transient occupancy tax (TOT), also known as the bedroom tax. The properties cannot operate within 300 feet of one another, which makes the process competitive, especially in condensed areas of San Clemente. Another piece of the ordinance relates to short-term apartment rentals (STAR) with similar limitations.

News Next Door

South Coast Water Votes to Move Forward with Planning for DistrictOwned Desalination Project

On Nov. 15, South Coast Water District (SCWD) held its fifth and final Project Delivery Board Workshop. At the meeting, SCWD’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to move forward with SCWD General Manager Andrew Brunhart’s staff recommendation to proceed with planning using a district-owned delivery option. This vote establishes, as stated in the staff report, that SCWD may “enter into some form of design-build-operate contract for the final design, construction of the facility, and operation and maintenance.”

A district-owned desalination project would allow SCWD to retain greater control over the project, access to upwards of $10 million dollars in grant money and a lower overall cost of water, including lower impact to ratepayers.

Board members from the Santa Margarita Water District were in attendance, and

WHAT’S NEXT: The Planning Commission will consider the amendments at a meeting in the future. Because of where the development standards are located, the California Coastal Commission will likely weigh in on the issue. The Coastal Commission has advocated for allowing more multiuse homes and lodging as a way to deter further development. —EH

San Clemente Feeds 600 for Thanksgiving

THE LATEST: For over a decade, Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) has thrown a Thanksgiving feast for those who could not afford one, and this year was no different. More than 600 bellies were filled the day before Thanksgiving at the San Clemente Community Center thanks to FAM, the National Charity League, the city and the San Clemente community.

The night kicked off by serving a buffet style turkey dinner to a line of guests wrapped around the Community Center, while a harpist played holiday music as guests took their seats. As soon as the center was filled, Deacon Al Scaduto of St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church took the stage to say grace and the feast was officially underway.

“This was an opportunity for people to come together, put aside all of their struggles and just share a meal with each other,” said Mary Perdue, executive director of FAM.

More than 60 people, including staff, FAM board members and volunteers

voiced their support of SCWD desalination plans.

South Coast Water District will move forward with selecting a planning option for a district-owned desalination project option. Plans outlined next steps as bringing in an expert third party legal firm by January 2018 and developing legal, commercial and technical contract documents within the next six months. Multiple staff and board workshops are to be held during this process. This presentation can be seen in full, and more information can be found on www.scwd.org. —Daniel Ritz

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Planning Commission Approves Church at Former Hanson’s Location

The San Juan Capistrano Planning Commission expressed faith last week that a new type of anchor at the Vermeulen Ranch Center—a church—will have more success than the grocers that preceded it.

The commission voted unanimously on Nov. 14 to approve a request from Mountain View Church to plant its congregation within an existing 17,000-square-foot vacant building that was most recently occupied by Hanson’s Market, which closed last year.

served 150 turkeys to guests, complete with all of the holiday trimmings.

San Clemente local and guest Darren Jones has attended this Thanksgiving feast every year that it has been held.

“Thank God FAM is here. They are good, kind people and they help a lot of people every day,” Jones said. “This event means a lot to me, people are getting together to help others and give thanks. That’s what it’s all about.”

It was not just FAM that lent a helping hand, but the San Clemente Community as a whole. Nine local restaurants including Rocco’s Restaurant, Café Mimosa and The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar pitched in; not to mention dozens of volunteers helped serve dessert and coffee after the meal.

“This is a communal effort, we really

The commission initially held a public hearing for the proposal on Oct. 24, but continued the topic to Nov. 14 to have city staff explore a few concerns, including the project’s potential traffic impacts and parking impacts on other businesses within the center. The commission also asked that existing center tenants to be properly notified of the hearing so that the commission could receive more varied input.

Each commissioner said that city staff had largely alleviated any significant concerns about traffic and parking impacts. The commission’s approval is final unless the decision is appealed to the City Council, which staff said is not expected.

City Hall was packed during the meeting with enthusiastic Mountain View churchgoers, as well as some Vermeulen Ranch Center tenants who expressed hope that a new church would bring more business to the area.

Pastor Todd Rodarmel told the commission that the church has been looking for a home for over five years. Mountain View met at different temporary locations throughout the years, including a shared campus with Mariners Church on Del Obispo Street for three years. Currently, the Mountain View congregation is meeting at Saddleback Valley Christian School on a temporary basis.

can’t do it without the community’s help,” Perdue said.

Retired San Clemente deputy and voice of the San Clemente varsity football broadcast, Rich Corder, volunteered to pass out desserts as a simple way to give back to the community he served for 27 years.

“What better way to give this holiday season than a good, warm meal?” Corder said.

In addition to hundreds of homeless and hungry people who attended this event, FAM boxed up additional meals for people to take to their families back home.

WHAT’S NEXT: FAM will continue to provide services to homeless and hungry people throughout the holiday season. Visit www.family-assistance.org for more information. —Victor Carno

“I think a church being in that center is a great use,” Rodarmel said. “It’s obviously not the intended original use of a farm market kind of a space. But they’ve tried several farmers markets and things in there that haven’t continued to be able to work, and our church will have an opportunity to bring business to that center.”

Michella Irene Gaspar, granddaughter of original property owners Charles and Irene Vermeulen, was also in attendance on Nov. 14 and spoke on behalf of the Vermeulen family. Gaspar gave a brief history of the property, from Charles purchasing the land in 1959 and growing lentils and celery until 1984, to the Vermeulen Ranch Market being constructed and occupied by an array of grocery stores between 1985 and 2016.

“A church falls in line with what we envision for our ranch center—somewhere lively, somewhere bustling, somewhere friendly, that really just brings the community together,” Gaspar concluded. When asked about the timeline for the Del Obispo Street widening project that’s underway, staff confirmed that utility work has already begun and roadway work will likely begin in early January. The widening would ideally be completed by the summer. Staff reported that the church will likely open in August. —Allison Jarrell

Community Meetings

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3

DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET

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

MONDAY, DECEMBER 4

AMERICAN LEGION POST 423 MEETING 6 p.m. The meetings are every second Monday of each month. San Clemente Elks Lodge, 1505 N. El Camino Real. 949.429.5003. strgeezr47@gmail.com.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5

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 host its regularly scheduled meeting. City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.

SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS

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

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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6

SAN CLEMENTE ROTARY

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

KIWANIS SAN CLEMENTE

Noon. Kiwanis San Clemente works to help maintain the quality of life for all people through volunteerism. Fratello’s Italian Restaurant, 647 Camino de Los Mares. 949.366.5423. www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY STAFF

Chabad Jewish Center of San Clemente to Host Menorah Lighting Dec. 10

The Chabad Jewish Center of San Clemente will host its annual menorah lighting at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10, at the end of the San Clemente Pier.

Local dignitaries, fire and police chiefs are expected to attend. There will be hot latkes, donuts and music as well as other Jewish holiday traditions.

People are asked to take out their cell phones during the lighting to light up the Pier, and the first 100 participants will be given a glow-in-the-dark dreidel necklace.

SCARWF Donates Turkey Dinners

San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated (SCARWF) members at the Deluz Family Community Center in Oceanside distributed 68 turkey baskets with dinners for families of four to six prior to Thanksgiving on Nov. 21. This is a yearly event SCARWF conducts with the military families at Camp Pendelton. The organization’s next project is a toy and gift certificate drive on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Members will deliver the items the following week on Tuesday, Dec. 19 to the base. For more information about the organization, visit www.sanclementerepublicanwomen.org.

Pink Saves Fundraising Celebration Raises More Than $3,500 for Susan G. Komen

The Outlets at San Clemente’s Pink Saves Fundraising Celebration raised more than $3,500 for Susan G. Komen Orange County.

During the Pink Saves celebration, the center hosted more than 50 survivors and their co-survivors during a Pink Saves Survivors’ Lounge event, where guests enjoyed a day of shopping at Outlets at San Clemente with special access to VIP treatment.

Other features of the month-long celebration included a Pink Saves Dedication Wall for shoppers to honor the fighters, survivors and angels in their life; a Ribbons & Rosé Launch Party to unveil the 15-foot sequined Ribbon of Strength on display during the month of October; and tours of a Mobile Mammography Coach to provide a firsthand look at a mammography appointment and the importance of early detection.

PCH Bridge Work to Resume; Pedestrian Detours in Effect

In summer 2016, the deteriorated bridge over Coast Highway in Dana Point was removed and replaced with a traffic signal intersection for continued beach access for pedestrians. Since then, OC Public Works has continued to work with local agencies on planning and construction for the retro-

fitting phase of the project.

OC Public Works will perform the retrofit to extend the service life and safety of the remaining Surfside Inn Pedestrian Bridge over the railroad track. The work will consist of replacing the existing fence and anchor bolts, patching deteriorated concrete, installing cathodic protection and new paint.

Public access to the bridge closed on Nov. 29. All pedestrian traffic will be routed to the on-street crossing approximately 1,800 feet south of the bridge.

The project is expected to last until midMarch. Schedules are subject to change due to weather and other factors.

San Clemente Art Association Winter Show Winners

The San Clemente Art Association Winter Show winners were announced on Nov. 19. The winners included Best of Show recipient Cynthia Civette for her oil painting, “Mads Marann.”

Other first-place winning categories included:

3D: Jeanne Reiss

Acrylic: Karen Kerwin

Jewelry: Linda Dette

Oil: Wojciech Koshowski

Watercolor: Bill Gibson

Photography: Kirk Kegel

Other Media: Judy Tatman

The Winter Show exhibit will continue through Jan. 4 in the San Clemente Art Association Gallery, located in the San Clemente City Community Center, 100 N. Seville. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, noon-4 p.m. and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday Admission is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.scartassociation.com.

Toy Drive for Children of Marine Corps Ends Dec. 8

Gifts will be collected for children of Marine families, ages 1-15, through Friday, Dec. 8.

The Heritage of San Clemente Foundation will host its annual Christmas party and barbecue for 1,000 Marines and their families at Camp Pendleton on Dec. 8, where the donated gifts will be presented. The event is sponsored by the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, the city of San Clemente and the Marine Monument at Park Semper Fi. Look for the red bins at these locations:

City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio; San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville; Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa; Ole Hanson Beach Club, 105 W. Avenida Pico; Coastal Postal, 806 Avenida Pico. Cash donations are tax deductible and can be made at www.marinemonument.com.

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

SOAPBOX SC

SanClemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION:

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

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977

www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US

CITY EDITOR

Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com

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PUBLISHER

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EDITORIAL

Group Managing Editor

> Rachael Mattice

City Editor, SC Times

> Eric Heinz

City Editor, DP Times

> Daniel Ritz

City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch

> Allison Jarrell

Sports Editor

> Steve Breazeale

Special Projects

Editor

> Andrea PapagianisCamacho

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

Associate Publisher

> Lauralyn Loynes

> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)

Real Estate Sales Manager

> Michele Reddick

ART/DESIGN

Art Director

> Jasmine Smith

Graphic Designer

> Chelsie Rex

OPERATIONS

Finance Director

> Mike Reed

Business Manager

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Accounting & Distribution Manager

> Tricia Zines

SPECIAL THANKS

Robert Miller

CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Bianco

Victor Carno

Tim Trent

Jake Howard

San Clemente Times Vol. 12, Issue 48. 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.

Lew’s Views by Lew Avera

Distinct Features of San Clemente

Ihave written various times about San Clemente in the past and this time I thought I would identify four distinct features that make us unique. Although there are also numerous other factors that make San Clemente what it is, this perspective is based upon my personal experience. I guess it’s fair to say, in some ways, it also represents my values.

Our residential population is approximately 66,000. As I’ve said before, this makes us the exact median city of 34 cities in Orange County. I think this is close to “ideal.” Much larger would be too big and much smaller would be difficult to exist as a stand-alone city. The factors are listed below and are not in terms of priority or importance.

Population Diversity

Our population has two elements: those who are actually residents and live in the city and the many who live elsewhere and work in San Clemente. In this same sense, many of our actual residents work outside of San Clemente. Other elements of diver-

Letters to the Editor

PROTECTING SOUTH COUNTY AS DISTRICT ATTORNEY

TODD SPITZER, Third Orange County District Supervisor

The 241 Toll Road connection to the Interstate 5 freeway has rightfully drawn attention, including the recent letter to the editor, “Open Letter to Todd Spitzer, Candidate for OC District Attorney” in the Nov. 16-22 edition of the San Clemente Times.

The author stated that her vote for me for District Attorney was dependent upon my position on the alignment of the toll road extension.

I find it disconcerting and troubling that

sity are older members who are enjoying their retirement years, many up-and-coming leaders of our community, many ethnic and religious backgrounds and beliefs, and the younger generations in our prestigious schools. Our workforce also significantly represents the tech world, apparel industry and the surfing world.

Climate

License plate frames in recent years have said it all, “San Clemente: World’s Best Climate.”

Climate is also a major factor in my retirement here the past 17 years. I will always remember my living here 55 years ago for two years in the Marines. I lived on the ocean side of the freeway in a home with ocean views. It was seldom hot or cold, but we slept under a blanket 365 days a year, light in the summer and heavier in the winter, both comfortable. There was no air conditioning because it wasn’t needed. There was some, but little wet weather, mostly sunny and sometimes cloudy. With today’s weather, I think there has definitely been climate change.

Commercial/Economic Diversity

This is a big factor in the positive profile of the city. We have at least four national “big box” retail stores and several smaller versions of national stores. These are contrasted with the multitude of small local “boutique” shops, especially in the T Zone along Del Mar and El Camino Real. Restaurants of all kinds exist, and the commercial support of the surfing community is very noticeable. Adding to this commercial diversity is the Outlets at San Clemente, one of only a few in the state. It brings thousands of tourists, shoppers and needed tax dollars to San Clemente. Many people have opposed operations at the Outlets, but the sales tax revenues are

a local attorney would limit her argument to having an ethical, honest and hardworking head prosecutor run the District Attorney’s office. What about safe streets, protecting our quality of life against the ridiculous high rise in crime and stopping the homeless population that is making our libraries and shopping centers unsafe?

Next, she doesn’t even know or state the position of my opponent. The truth should be told. I am one of the few directors at the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) who has already fought for you repeatedly on several important fronts.

One, you were not treated with respect or dignity at a recent town hall forum, and I agendized that issue for a full discussion to ensure your rights are upheld in the future and won.

Two, I fought and won to have the public comment rules changed to allow the public to give a presentation to the TCA

very large and rewarding to the city.

Recreation/Fitness

Possibly the most unique feature of our city is its position within the world of fitness and recreation. Except for major league, professional and college sports, we have it all. San Clemente is a world-recognized surfing locale, including the ocean and beaches for swimming and recreation. Within the city, there are four 18-hole golf courses. With our unique location, we have miles of open space and trails of all types. Perhaps the most special are the city-owned recreation sites, especially Vista Hermosa Sports Park, newly opened Jim Johnson Memorial Sports Park, Liberty Park, Ole Hanson Beach Club and numerous other smaller parks. Our City Council has had the foresight over the years to dedicate resources to all of these. Finally, in this category of features are the commercially-owned fitness centers. We have at least four widely known large facilities and numerous smaller ones concentrating on, but not limited to, such things as yoga, Pilates, spinning, etc. The first of all of these is the original San Clemente Gym on El Camino Real.

As I said initially, I believe the above features are powerful in helping make San Clemente the distinct and wonderful place it is. Very few other locales have such livable and contributing features as these.

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

Board with a Power Point presentation supplied at the same time as the public comment instead of being blocked by TCA with bureaucratic excuses.

Three, I have personally met with community advocates and their attorneys to understand your issues and to be aware of those issues as they come before the board.

My actions to advance transparency and community involvement in the government process is in direct contrast to the legacy of corruption, scandal and cover-up antics that have jeopardized our public safety and spiked crime under the lack of leadership by the current District Attorney Tony Rackauckas.

The community should be supporting those elected officials who are showing your community support. You might consider supporting and not alienating one of your main, but few, outspoken voices for your community at the TCA.

LET’S BE SMARTER WITH OUR TRANSPORTATION

EVA O’KEEFE, San Clemente

According to Pacific Research Group (2013), almost $2 billion has gone to the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) from taxpayers for development fees, cleanup and maintenance of the Toll Roads and bailouts for their underperforming bonds. Add the TCA debt maturity of $11 billion for 51 miles of roads and the costs equate to about $215 million per mile. Congratulations, Orange County, you now own the most expensive road in the country, which comprises 63 percent of the debt of all the Joint Power Authorities in the county. What if the money used to build toll roads went to other infrastructure projects around Orange County? It could be used for light rail lines or more affordable and frequent train stops and conversion to true artificially intelligent (adaptive) traffic lights. These lights have been tested in Pittsburgh and other cities and have resulted in 40 percent less idle time, a 21 percent cut in emissions and 25 percent less travel time. I attended a symposium where the CEO of the TCA spoke a few months ago, and even he said that he’d like to see more rail service when he goes to dinner in LA. He was not calling for a toll road to LA.

Transportation is getting smarter. Let’s be smarter about how we use our transportation dollars in the future by investing in cutting-edge technology, not an overpriced toll road that doesn’t serve the people of Orange County. #NOMI—not one more inch, stop the 241 at Oso!

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin by OC Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

Housing is a Hand Up, Not a Hand Out

ith National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week taking place earlier this month, we acknowledge there are a number of homeless men, women, teenagers, children and entire families in our community.

Every two years, the County of Orange conducts the Point-In-Time (PIT) Count, a census administered on a given night of the homeless in our communities. The PIT Count, which represents a snapshot in time, revealed a troubling trend in 2017 – a 7.6 percent increase in the number of homeless, with a total of nearly 4,800 individuals counted.

Orange County has diligently and compassionately tried to stem this rising tide by building a system of care that meets

BACK TO THE FUTURE: AI COULD ALLEVIATE TRAFFIC PROBLEMS

TONY HAYS, San Clemente

Innovations are about to change existing forms of transportation. Almost all of them appear to be ignored by traffic forecasters for the potential extension to the 241 Toll Road. One of these innovations is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to control traffic signals. At the first level of AI implementation, radar sensors and cameras facing toward oncoming traffic are linked to traffic signals. AI evaluates all the oncoming traffic from each road and makes a judgment as to which should take priority. Traffic density on roads is uneven, so there is a reasonable chance that no cars will have to stop at the signal. Traffic signals in Pittsburgh are already being upgraded with this capability. In Pittsburgh, travel time is reduced by 25 percent and idling time by over 40 percent.

The next level of AI implementation is to link all the traffic signals in a city or metropolitan region. These would be linked in the cloud, with AI making judgments about scheduling signals so that waves of traffic will be able to flow smoothly through a city without having to stop. At first, advisory signs may be needed to tell drivers the optimum speed to avoid stopping at the next signal. Ultimately, the speed of driverless cars will be controlled from the cloud. Traffic will flow through a city like a tightlychoreographed dance, with waves of cars intersecting each other but never stopping.

In South Orange County, a significant percentage of freeway traffic is local. With synchronized arterial traffic signals, it will

the needs of this complex and diverse population. Our efforts include increasing shelter capacity, outreach and services, including the following initiatives, among others:

• Establishment of The Courtyard, a partnership between the county and The Midnight Mission that provides 400 shelter beds every night

• Completion of phase one of Bridges at Kraemer, the county’s year-round emergency shelter that provides 100 beds; Phase two, which will provide a total of 200 beds, is slated for completion in May 2018

• Enhancing our efforts to ensure public safety in large encampments

• Increasing outreach and service linkages for the homeless

As impactful and encouraging as these efforts are, an urgent need remains for more permanent supportive housing.

A recent cost study conducted by the University of California-Irvine and Orange County United Way indicated that $300 million was spent on homelessness within one fiscal year between the county, cities, hospitals, law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations.** Providing stable housing with case management, social and medical services to the

be just as quick to take surface streets. This will free up freeway capacity and the bottleneck through San Clemente will be eased. Equally important, once AI-controlled traffic signals are installed, users of the existing toll road will be able to drive down Antonio Parkway just as quickly as if a toll road extension had been built. Arterial roads can then link this traffic to I-5. If built, the toll road extension could be a giant and expensive white elephant.

SIGNS ON HIGH SCHOOL MUCH MORE DEBATED THAN NECESSARY

JAY GASKINS, San Clemente

I find it disturbing that people would have the arrogance to rebut a letter authored by a San Clemente newcomer regarding the eyesore of the advertisements on the outside of San Clemente High School. The writer hasn’t lived in town long enough to make that observation.

The presumption that you would need to have been born and raised in San Clemente to know what the blight of commercial advertising on a major street-facing fence of a high school looks like is inconceivable.

For business, I drive all through Southern California, often through the barrios of LA County. Even in the areas that sit in the socioeconomic cellar in LA County, the residents have resisted the urge to allow commercial advertising on high school fences, which is also true in Monrovia, where the original writer is from.

There probably is not much value to the advertising itself. By the way, people in the San Gabriel Valley know as much about the pathetic egocentric narcissism of local

most medically fragile homeless individuals would reduce the cost of serving that population by 50 percent per capita, at $100,000 a year for the unsheltered versus $50,000 a year for those in housing.

Chronically homeless individuals with disabilities and who lack stable housing often do not receive the appropriate preventative care or supportive services. These individuals, who are covered through public health plans, are likely to struggle with severe medical needs, which often results in costly emergency department visits and hospitalizations.

The average cost of health care services for chronically homeless individuals who lack stable housing was $98,000 annually— versus $26,158 for the chronically homeless who are placed in housing programs.

Providing permanent supportive housing for the homeless population with medical disabilities provides a compassionate long-term solution that helps individuals improve their conditions, while reducing our overall costs.

In June, I introduced a measure that

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Dec. 1 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.

business owners’ faces being posted to a chain link fence as people that were born and raised in South Orange County.

The only thing less classy about the commercial graffiti at San Clemente High School is the rebuttal to the letter from someone complaining about the unattractiveness of it, having only been here four months.

Is the City Council that did everything possible to keep a gas station owner from having one sign of advertising and an outlet mall from advertising anything at all OK with turning our only high school into a real-life webpage pop-up ad center?

I find the advertising a complete visual atrocity, just like our new neighbors.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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

dedicates $5 million in Mental Health Services Act dollars toward creating additional housing and supportive services for the disabled homeless who suffer from mental illness.

As our community moves forward developing solutions to our growing homeless crisis, I am committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders and my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors to develop the system of care and increase the housing available to our homeless residents.

Supervisor Lisa Bartlett represents the 5th District on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Dana Point, (portions of) Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. SC

**Editor’s Note: A link to the cost study titled, “Homelessness in Orange County: The Costs to Our Community” can be found in this column online at www.sanclementetimes.com.

GETTING OUT SC

SanClemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s

going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO

Thursday | 30

FREE YOGA FOR VETS PROJECT

6 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Pure.Love.Yoga is encouraging all veterans and active duty military to a free month of yoga. All offered classes are free upon showing your military identification. Offer ends Nov. 30. 415 Avenida Pico, Suite M, San Clemente. 949.492.5048. www.pureloveyogasc.com.

TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS

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

AUTUMN CHILL JAZZ SERIES

6:30 p.m. Enjoy a live music tribute to Antonio Carlos Jobim, featuring the Ramon Banda Band and Elizabeth Lamers. Tickets are $25 for general admission and an Autumn Supper from California Fresh Catering, or $10 for general admission. Casino San Clemente. 140 West Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.369.6600. www.thecasinosanclemente.com.

CASA CLASSIC: STEFAN ROOS

7 p.m. Stefan Roos, a classical guitarist who performs at the Lincoln Center in NYC, will be the featured chamber artist to perform a special selection of classical and Spanish classical guitar works. Tickets are $20 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Friday | 01

LIVE MUSIC: WATERMAN’S HARBOR

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

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

EDITOR’S PICK

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2: HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS ON AVENIDA DEL MAR

Puttin’ on the Glitz 5-10 p.m. Shops will stay open late and vendors will line the streets of Avenida Del Mar during Puttin’ on the Glitz, hosted by the San Clemente Downtown Business Association. Vendor information can be found online. 949.218.5378. www.villagesanclemente.org.

Santa’s Village by the Sea 5 p.m. The San Clemente Community Center will host a series of events on Avenida Del Mar to ring in the holiday season. Holiday activities begin at 5 p.m. with the city tree lighting on the corner of Avenida Del Mar and Calle Seville. There will also be Santa’s Village by the Sea at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N, Calle Seville. 949.361.8264. www.san-clemente.org.

Art Showcase 5-9 p.m. An artist meet-and-greet will take place with artists Joshua Paskowitz and metal sculptor and skater Alex Gall. There will be food and drink specials provided by JD’s Kitchen and Bar. Republik of Kalifornia, 219 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.9012.

Christmas at the Casa 5-7:30 p.m. Casa Romantica’s annual holiday open house features traditional and bell choirs, a visit from Santa, a talking tree, kids crafts, holiday décor and refreshments. Christmas at the Casa is held in partnership with the city of San Clemente’s Santa’s Village by the Sea. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.

STUDENT ART HOLIDAY SALE

5-8 p.m. Celebrate the 38th Annual Student Art Holiday Sale at Saddleback College featuring a variety of student-made art. Enjoy one-of-a-kind sculptures, jewelry, paintings and ceramics for a reasonable price. The sale will go on until Dec. 5 and start at noon starting the Dec. 2. Admission is free. Saddleback College Art Gallery, Room 201. 280000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. 949.582.4500. www.saddleback.edu/arts.

LIVE MUSIC AT THE VINTAGE STEAKHOUSE

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

LIVE MUSIC: BILLY WATSON

7 p.m. Live music will be performed by Billy Watson at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

LIVE THEATER:

‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS’ 8 p.m. Join the Cabrillo Playhouse for their joyful tribute to the holiday season with a theatrical performance of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. The performance follows a mouse, an elf, and a young girl through the classic Christmas poem. Performances are every Thursday through Sunday until Dec. 17. See site for show times. Tickets are $20 for general admission and $15 for students. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

LIVE THEATER: ‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’

8 p.m. The Camino Real Playhouse presents to you the classic Christmas Eve tale of an average man led by his guardian angel to see what life would have been like had he never been born. Show times are every weekend until Dec. 17. Friday and Saturday show times begin at 8 p.m., while Saturday and Sunday matinees begin at 2 p.m. Tickets start at $27. Camino Real Playhouse. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.533.0258. www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

Saturday | 02

THE ECOLOGY CENTER PORCH SALE

10 a.m. The Ecology Center encourages all to shop consciously this holiday season by inviting members of the public to enjoy their thoughtfully curated shop items for a discounted price. Receive a handmade canvas tote with any purchase. Admission is free. The Ecology Center. 32701 Alipaz Street, San Juan Capistrano. 949.443.4223. www.theecologycenter.org.

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE

4-9 p.m. The jewelry and sketch artists of the Art Association will be stopping by the San Clemente Art Gallery to showcase their latest hand-crafted pieces. Stop by to pick up your own one-of-a-kind creation or get some holiday shopping out of the way. Admission is free. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.542.2924. www.paintsanclemente.com.

TEA AND TALK

7 p.m. Join the author of Growing Up Global, Homa Sabet Tavanger and cultural activist/songwriter, Eric Dozier, in a night of tea and workshops that teach how to equip children with a vital global perspective. All parents, educators and anyone who cares about social justice and equality are welcome to come and show their support while learning about important issues. Seating is limited. RSVP to www.eventbrite.com. San Clemente Baha’I Center. 3316 Avenida del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.791.9192. www.bahaicenter.com.

(Cont. on page 21)

holiday Happenings

Saturday, Dec. 2

Winter Festival and Tree Lighting 12-5 p.m. Get in the holiday spirit with a day of activities for the whole family. There will be a craft fair, face painting, cookie decorating, a petting zoo, a visit to Lego Santa’s Village Workshop and be rounded out with a tree lighting ceremony. Most activities are free. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

Holiday Boutique at San Clemente Art Gallery

4-9 p.m. Art Association artists will be stopping by the San Clemente Art Gallery to showcase their latest pieces. Admission is free. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.542.2924. www.paintsanclemente.com.

Tree Lighting Celebration

4:15-5:45 p.m. Celebrate the holidays at the annual Tree Lighting Celebration at the Historic Town Center Park. Enjoy live music, shopping and refreshments. Festivities continue at Mission SJC, Los Rios Historic District and Zoomars Petting Zoo. 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. Visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org for a schedule.

Santa’s Village by the Sea 5 p.m. Stop by the San Clemente Community Center on Avenida Del Mar to bring in the holiday season. Holiday activities begin at 5 p.m. at Casa Romantica, and then move to the Community Center for the annual snow hill and tree lighting. San Clemente Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente. 949.361.8264. www.san-clemente.org.

Christmas at the Mission 5:30-8 p.m. Held in conjunction with San Juan

Capistrano’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and community-wide holiday celebration, Mission San Juan Capistrano offers a snow play area for kids, Santa’s Workshop with cookie decorating and holiday card making, photos with Father Christmas, food vendors, holiday shopping and live music. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children ages 4-11. Cans of food are welcome for the Serra Pantry Food Drive. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

Christmas at the Casa: Holiday Open House 5:30-7 p.m. The Casa’s annual holiday open house will feature live music, kids crafts, refreshments and more. Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Merry Movie Night

5 p.m. Get excited for the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights with a holiday film at Baby Beach the weekend before. The festivities begin at 3:30 p.m., but the movie starts at 5 p.m. 34445 Ensenada Pl, Dana Point. www.danapointharbor.com.

Sunday, Dec. 3

Yappy Howl-iday Celebration 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring your pup to this festive edition of the monthly Ritz-Carlton hosted event. Canned food donations are encouraged and any treats or dog toys will be donated to an animal rescue organization. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.

Elves on Trails 5K and Half Marathon 7 a.m. Stay on track with your fitness

goals through the holiday season with this breathtaking run through Caspers Wilderness Park. Come dressed in your elf outfit or other holiday attire to make it an experience. 33401 Ortega Hwy, San Juan Capistrano. www. rockitracingoc.com.

Boat Rides with Santa 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. Join Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching for a day on the water with Santa Claus. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www. danawharf.com or www. danapointharbor.com.

Monday, Dec. 4

Capistrano Beach Tree

Lighting 4-6 p.m. Stop by Pines Park for the Capistrano Beach Tree Lighting event for holiday music, cookies, a dog holiday costume parade and photo opportunities with Santa. 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point. 949.248.3536. www.danapoint.org.

Garden of Lights 5-9 p.m. The San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas is transformed into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights illuminating the flora of the 37-acre garden oasis. There will be nightly entertainment as well as food, beverages and familyfriendly activities such as horse-drawn wagon rides, marshmallow roasting. Visit www.sdbgarden. org for participating days for the holiday festivities. Admission is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for children ages 3-12. Free admission for active duty military personnel Sundays through Thursdays. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas.

(Continued)

holiday Happenings

(Continued)

Tuesday, Dec. 5

Holiday Gift Faire and Party 6-9 p.m. Skip the mall and shop small with Pure.Love.Yoga. Local artisans and crafters will be onsite at the studio with items for purchase. Live music and wine will be available for guests to mingle, jingle and shop. 415 E. Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.492.5048. www.pureloveyogasc.com.

Holiday Dinner Cooking Class 6:30-9 p.m. Join Antoine’s Café for a lesson in holiday cuisine preparation as students learn how to prepare kabocha squash and fennel soup with smoked paprika and candied pecans; herbed beef tenderloin with cranberryport wine sauce; chocolate and brandy soufflé tarts and more. The class costs $60 per person. Reserve online at www.antoinescafe.com/ cooking-class-san-clemente or call 949.492.1763. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente.

Holiday Sip and Shop at Barnoa 4-9 p.m. Stop by Barnoa Wine Company for holiday gift shopping and wine tasting. 831 Via Suerte, Ste. 106, San Clemente. www.barnoawinebar. com. 949.388.4378.

Thursday, Dec. 7

Dana Point Symphony Holiday Concert 7:30 p.m. Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Choir and Dana Hills High School Orchestra will join the Symphony to perform holiday favorites from the Nutcracker and Rossini: Messe di Gloria. General admission is $20; seniors, students and military tickets are $15. Concerts are held at St. Edward the

Confessor Catholic Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point. 949.542.6282. www.danapointsymphony. com.

Friday, Dec. 8

43rd Annual Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade

4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Arrive early for a premier spot to watch the 43rd Annual Boat Parade to celebrate the season. This year’s event will include familyfriendly activities throughout the Harbor. Trolley service will be available for all four days of the parade starting at 3:30 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. 24650 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. www.danapoint.org.

Saturday, Dec. 9

Holiday Ice Skating

4-8 p.m. The city of San Juan Capistrano invites you for a weekend on ice at the Riding Park for their first annual Holiday Ice Skating. Skate rentals are $5 per person and all proceeds benefit the underserved youth of San Juan Capistrano. 30753 La Pata Avenue, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. www. sanjuancapistrano.org.

Saturday, Dec. 16

Cookies with Mrs. Claus at Zoomars 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Join Zoomars Petting Zoo to decorate Christmas cookies with Mrs. Claus. Seats are limited so calling in advance is recommended. Entry is $15 per person. 31791 Los Rios St, San Juan Capistrano. 949.831.6550. www.zoomars.com.

Hanukkah Party

7-9 p.m. The Monarch Beach Resort will be hosting a Hanukkah party

with “Lighten-Up” comedy show starring comedian Brian Kiley. RSVP for the comedy show is required. Tickets are $36 and can be purchased at www.chabadoflaguna.com. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. 949.499.0770. www. monarchbeachresort.com.

Sunday, Dec. 17

Gingerbread Academy 10 a.m.-noon; 1-3 p.m. Feeling crafty? Join the Monarch Beach Resort pastry team in decorating gingerbread houses like one of the pros. The price for the event is $109 per family and includes one house, the fixings, access to the holiday treat bar and a glass of sparkling wine. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. 949.234.3423. www.monarchbeachresort. com.

Menorah Lighting at the Outlets 4-5 p.m. The Outlets at San Clemente will be hosting a free, family-friendly event to celebrate Chanukah with the Chabad Jewish Center of San Clemente. Activities will include balloons, hot latkes, doughnuts and gelt. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, Ste 190, San Clemente. 949-535-2323. www.outletsatsanclemente.com.

Breakfast with Santa at H.H. Cotton’s 10 a.m.noon. Scarf down breakfast with Santa at the Avenida Del Mar restaurant. Photo opportunities will be available. Donate an unwrapped toy too to benefit children at Mission Hospital. Email erin@hhcottons.com for more information. RSVP for breakfast today. 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.429.3321. www.hhcottons.com.

from page 10)

CHRISTMAS AT THE MISSION

5:30-8 p.m. Held in conjunction with San Juan Capistrano’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Mission San Juan Capistrano offers a snow play area for kids, Santa’s Workshop with cookie decorating and holiday card making, photos with Father Christmas, food vendors, holiday shopping and music performed by the Dickens Carolers, chamber singers, orchestra musicians and mariachis. Tickets are $6 for adults and $4 for children. Cans of food are welcome for the Serra Pantry Food Drive. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com.

Sunday | 03

GUIDED NATURE HIKE

8-9:15 a.m. Join an Orange County Parks Ranger for a one-mile hike around Bell Canyon in Caspers Wilderness Park. Parking is $5, the hike is free. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.923.2210. www.ocparks.com/caspers.

BEND & BREW

11 a.m.-noon. Bend & Brew is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente. This is a one-hour yoga class, followed by a pint of beer. It’s a great way to get to know your local fellow yogis and beer drinkers. The cost is $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing.com.

YAPPY HOWL-IDAY CELEBRATION

11 a.m.-2 p.m. This festive gathering of canines and their companions provides all dogs with the opportunity to be photographed with Santa Claus. Guests are asked to bring unopened canned or dry dog food, treats or dog toys to support animals in need. dmission is free. Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton. com.

GINGERBREAD EXTRAVAGANZA

4 p.m. Every year Ritz-Carlton puts on a Gingerbread Extravaganze, but this year Executive Pastry Chef Sylvain Haage showcases a “today’s attention on climate” themed extravaganza. Clean and sustainable energy will be represented through Californian landscapes created entirely out of gingerbread and sweets. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www. ritzcarlton.com.

Monday | 04

SIP & SHOP

4-8 p.m. The Cellar will host local artisans selling jewelry, natural skincare items, knits, gifts and more. There will be “complementary bubbles” and truffle popcorn. The Cellar, 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.492.3663. ask@thecellarsite.com. www.thecellarsite.com.

FREE GUITAR LESSONS

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

Tuesday | 05

BEND & BREW

6 p.m. Bend & Brew is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente. This is a one-hour yoga class, followed by a pint of beer. It’s a great way to get to know your local fellow yogis and beer drinkers. The cost is $10. Left Coast Brewery, 1251 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.6014 or www.leftcoastbrewing.com.

HOLIDAY MAKE AND TAKE WORKSHOP

7-9 p.m. Costa Lifestyle Medicine invites you to get a jumpstart on your holiday gifts with their homemade gift workshop. Invite your friends to join in an evening of learning to craft ornaments, bracelets and sprays. Pre-made gifts are available for purchase and admission to the workshop is $10. Costa Lifestyle Medicine. 181 Avenida Vaquero, San Clemente. 949.276.7393. www.coastalifestylemedicine.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.

Wednesday | 06

MIXOLOGY UNIVERSITY

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

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. There will be local and professional talent. 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.

ENCHILADAS EN SALSA’S ROSA ON THE MENU

BY RACHEL

Ricardo’s Place, a treasured Mexican eatery in San Juan Capistrano, was born from a love of family and a love of cooking. The restaurant’s recipes come from owner Ricardo Beas’ grandma Juana, who prepared food for her town in Jalisco, México more than 40 years ago. Today, this San Juan staple prides itself in sharing its family recipes and traditions with visitors who come to try grandma Juana’s authentic cuisine.

The Enchiladas En Salsa’s Rosa entrée comes with a choice of chicken, beef or cheese. The enchiladas are drenched in a medium hot salsa called “Rosa’s Salsa” and are garnished with a generous serving of guacamole and sour cream. The dish is ac-

At the Movies: ‘The Man Who Invented Christmas’ Is a Familiar Tale

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

We’ve all seen the type of biographical period piece reflected in The Man Who Invented Christmas. It’s the type where Hollywood takes the creator of a classic tale and makes a whole feature on his or her struggle and journey to pen said classic tale. We saw it with Finding Neverland (2004), In the Heart of the Sea (2015) and Goodbye Christopher Robin last month. This week, we get a biopic appropriately released during the holiday season.

In 1843 London, England, novelist Charles Dickens (Dan Stevens) is now five years past the mega success of his epic Oliver Twist, with three flops following it. He’s got not only writer’s block creatively, but a wife (Morfydd Clark), four children and a fifth baby on the way. On top of that, his estranged parents (Jonathan Pryce

companied by Spanish rice and refried beans topped with cheese, which make the perfect dip for Ricardo’s homemade tortilla chips. These enchiladas ooze authenticity that can be tasted in each delicious bite.

Ricardo’s offers a Taco Tuesday special from 2–9 p.m. with beef, chicken, carnitas or potato tacos priced at $2.95 with the purchase of a drink, or $3.50 alone. Try one of the restaurant’s many margaritas, which come in flavors such as mango, strawberry and piña colada. Happy hour drink specials at Ricardo’s are offered during select hours on almost all days of the week.

Ricardo’s Place

32082 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano 949.493.4941, www.ricardosplace.net

and Aleah Lennon) are also visiting. He needs to come up with a new, surefire hit as quickly as possible. Christopher Plummer appears as Dickens’ Ebenezer Scrooge character in his subconscious. The Man Who Invented Christmas is pretty much a family-friendly telling of Dickens’ life while writing A Christmas Carol, though there are a couple of dark moments. Technically, there really isn’t anything wrong with Bharat Nalluri’s film, but it is a bit paint-by-numbers and basic. Stevens borders between charming and campy, and the title—also the same as Les Standiford’s biography used as the basis— is a little misleading. Unless you’re a fan of Dickens or Christmas movies in general, stick with Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983) or The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992). SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING

Thankful for Christmas

Outlets host third annual Christmas tree lighting

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The Outlets at San Clemente hosted its third annual Christmas Tree

Lighting Celebration along with various events for children and families on Nov. 18.

Santa made an appearance with his reindeer, and “snow” fell from the sky during the festivities, allowing thousands of locals to create warm holiday memories.

“Families enjoyed complimentary pho-

tos with Santa, and children had the opportunity to feed and meet live reindeer,” a press release from the Outlets stated.

Other entertainment included free hot cocoa, food trucks, roaming Christmas carolers, live music by J. Liberio, bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals and a holiday-themed photo booth.

Guests also helped Santa count down to the lighting of a 40-foot tree, which is decorated with more than 6,000 lights. SC

FROM THE ARCHIVES The Free and Accepted Masons from San Clemente Lodge No. 671 pose for a photo. This is one of the many items included in the time capsule placed at Dana Point Harbor in 1966. The capsule was opened during a special ceremony in August 2016. 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

Pets of the Week: Trick and Treat

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

Brothers Trick and Treat are quite the dynamic duo. This guinea pig pair is sure to brighten your day with their cute coos and adorable squeaks. Trick and Treat are both very sweet and would love to go home together.

If you would like to know more about Trick and Treat, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with them at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

or email dwells@picketfencemedia.com.

ACCOUNTING

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

ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT

Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program

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

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

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

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

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com

CONCRETE

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

Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.com

DENTISTS

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

Kristen Ritzau, DDS 122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.245.6046, www.shorelinedentalstudio.com

EDIBLE LANDSCAPING

Organics Out Back 949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com

ELECTRIC BIKES

Murf Electric Bikes

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

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

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD

1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com

PEST/TERMITE CONTROL

accuratetermitecontrol.com

949.837.6483

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

PLUMBING

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

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

POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL

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

REALTORS

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

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

CLIFFORD KIRKPATRICK

STEELE III

(Patrick), 42, died suddenly on October 11, 2017, while in the hospital for pain treatment. Born August 14, 1975 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Patrick was a true Californian who loved the outdoors, especially surfing. He graduated from Trabuco Hills High School in Mission Viejo in 1993, then completed his education at Westmont College in 1997. In his last college semester, Patrick suffered a traumatic spinal cord injury, rendering him a quadriplegic. The remaining twenty years of his life were filled with adversity but also much joy: he married his college sweetheart, Carrie Hicks, in 2001 and they welcomed son Jack in 2007.

Patrick was devoted to his family and sustained by his faith in Christ. He persevered to the end and will be deeply missed by all

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

WEBSITE DESIGN

San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT

Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org

OBITUARIES

who loved him. In addition to his wife and son, Patrick is survived by parents Kirk and Bonnie Steele, his sister Lisa Johnson (Lisa’s husband, Steve), and a host of nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held December 9 at 11:00 am, Presbyterian Church of the Master, 26051 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. Patrick and his family recently visited a school in Zambia. Education and the children of Africa were very near to Patrick’s heart, so in lieu of flowers, it would honor Patrick to help build a secondary school for these students. Learn more at www.meetthemasters.com/patrick

MARION McINTOSH

Marion McIntosh, longtime resident of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, passed away on September 7, 2017. She was 91 years old.

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GARAGE SALES

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She will always be remembered by her close friends as a “real saint”. Always giving, always loving, always available to pray and encourage. Marion was a graduate of Immaculate Heart College in Los Angeles, back in the 1940’s. She married Paul, her lifelong husband, who was quite the athlete in his day at Occidental College. She raised 4 children of her own and taught special needs children for 24 years. She loved life and was always thankful to God for so many blessings.

The regular 8:30 am Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in San Clemente will be celebrated in her honor on Monday, December 18th. The church is located at 105 N. La Esperanza in San Clemente. Afterward there will be an informal gathering and sharing in the Hall. For more information, you can email Betty at ebssoc@ cox.net.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

San Clemente Winter Sports Preview

Local athletes gear up for new seasons

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The winter sports season is underway. In our annual preview, we highlight all of the winter sports programs at San Clemente High School as they head into the new year.

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

BOYS WRESTLING

In his 27th season as the head coach of the San Clemente wrestling program, Mark Calentino will send perhaps his youngest Triton team yet to the mats.

San Clemente returns just two seniors to the fold and a handful of talented juniors. The Tritons have a large, and impressive, group of freshmen and sophomores that will likely see time wrestling with the varsity.

“This may be the youngest group of kids we’ll put on the mat at the varsity group ever,” Calentino said. “A key thing is that this freshmen and sophomore group is phenomenal. We’re going to take our lumps, but we have a group of kids that are willing to work hard and fight. The sky is the limit in the next few years.”

Despite the young roster, the Tritons return veterans Josh Tabb, a two-time senior CIF qualifier, and Will Eldrige, also

a CIF qualifier.

Masious Vaughn, a CIF-SS place-winner, and Kahajak Darbinian, a CIF qualifier, headline a crop of returning juniors.

San Clemente will compete in several high-profile preseason tournaments before opening South Coast League play at home against Capistrano Valley on Tuesday, Dec. 12.

GIRLS WRESTLING

The San Clemente girls wrestling team has picked up steam since its inaugural season three years ago. And while the team lost a few key wrestlers to transfer,

there is a strong group returning with their eyes set on lofty goals.

Carolina Moreno will look to build on her strong sophomore campaign. Moreno advanced to the CIF State Championship tournament last year and placed 12th overall, a feat coach John Owens believes she can replicate. Moreno also placed third and seventh at the CIF-SS and CIF-SS Masters tournaments, respectively.

Payton Swank, Edith Gutierrez, Evy Osorio and Priscilla Perez, all returning wrestlers that had winning records last season, return.

“As a whole, the best thing they do is

they’re aggressive,” Owens said. “Most of them have the personal goal of getting to state and I think they’re capable of getting there.”

BOYS

SOCCER

An influx of academy players and a core group of returning players are determined to take the San Clemente boys soccer team back to its standing as a Southern California powerhouse this year.

Senior midfielder/forward Tristan Weber, who grew up as a Tritons ball boy, is joining the squad after spending the last (Cont. on page 28)

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

(Cont. from page 26) year in the U.S. Men’s National Team’s U17 Residency program. Coach Mike Pronier believes Weber’s skill playing through the middle and up top will ignite an offense that scored just over 1 1/2 goals per game last year.

Sophomore defender K.C. Smith and junior defender Liam Linas are other academy players that have joined the Tritons’ ranks.

The Tritons return senior goalie Jake Carter, senior defender Dylan Krufal and junior forward Quinn Richards. Joining Weber up top will be returning junior Blake Bowen.

“These returning kids are highly motivated to have a good season. And you throw in a few extra players … we just have a good feeling about the season,” Pronier said. “It’s probably as good as a team as we’ve had in three or four years.”

The Tritons will host the annual LottoSport Western Showcase tournament, which features high-profile teams from across the country, starting Thursday, Dec. 14.

GIRLS SOCCER

The San Clemente girls soccer team

is looking to come together quickly. The Tritons graduated a large group of seniors last year and the new-look group had just a few practices under its belt, including two nonleague games, before heading to compete in the Desert Mirage Soccer Tournament this weekend.

The Tritons’ defensive unit allowed an average of just one goal per game last year and several key pieces from that group return.

Senior goalie Kelsey Bland will look to fill the shoes of graduated All-American Lauren Brzykcy, who is off at UCLA. Bland, who is committed to Chapman University, has stepped ably into the role of team leader, according to coach Lauren Leslie.

The Tritons return their two starting center backs in Molly Engel and Gabi Drabkin. Engel is a four-year letterman and was an All-South Coast League selection last season.

Karla Rodriguez, a talented freshman, will provide a spark on offense.

San Clemente will also play in the highprofile Mater Dei Premier Invitational and

sophomores Ella Gardiner and Esther Mafouta return. Gardiner was the team’s leading scorer as a freshman.

San Clemente will play in the upcoming South Coast Tournament, the Valley Christian Tournament and travel to San Diego before opening South Coast League play. The Tritons finished in a tie for second place in league last season.

BOYS BASKETBALL

The San Clemente boys basketball team will enter the new year with a target on its back.

The Tritons are the three-time defending league champs and will eye a rare four-peat in the competitive league in the coming months.

San Clemente boasts an impressive array of size and athleticism, allowing the Tritons to play with a faster tempo. Five players on the Tritons’ roster stand at 6-feet-5-inches or taller, including returning senior Chris Kane. Kane averaged nearly five points and three rebounds one year ago and will carry a larger workload this season.

“In our league, teams might have one big guy but I don’t think they have the depth that we have,” coach Marc Popovich said. “I think that’s where our advantage lies on both ends.”

Senior guard Jacob Nemeth will be a key contributor after averaging five points and two rebounds as a junior.

In the South Coast League, teams like Trabuco Hills and Aliso Niguel return plenty of impact players. The competition for the league hardware, as usual, will be tough.

the Foothill Excalibur tournaments before entering the South Coast League, where they placed second last season.

GIRLS

BASKETBALL

When looking at her team on the court during a recent offseason practice, San Clemente girls basketball coach Kerri Husbands was proud to point out just how many of her players shine in different sports on campus.

The Tritons, who return four of five returning starters and several key contributors from last year, are full of multi-sport athletes. The players’ discipline in other sports has made for one unique, and athletic, bunch of players.

“We’ve got swimmers, a soccer player, volleyball players, softball, equestrians, cross country runners,” Husbands said. “It just leads to a better athlete in general and that’s what we have.”

Eight players with considerable experience return. Five of the players are seniors, including Kelsey Murphy, Shae Waters and Morgan Thomas.

Impact junior Theresa De Gree and

“I told the kids that everybody is gunning for us. Nobody thought we’d win (league) last year but we found a way to do it,” Popovich said. “I have no intention of giving this league back to anybody at this point so we’re going to come ready to play. I think we’re a tough matchup for everybody in our league.”

GIRLS WATER POLO

A large contingent of returning players and a few key newcomers have the San Clemente girls water polo team ready to defend its South Coast League title.

Leading the way on offense will be returning center Allison Echelberger, junior Brooklyn Aguilera and sophomore Caroline Christl. The group was part of a San Clemente offense that scored nearly 11 points per game last season.

On defense, the Tritons will be led by two-meter defender Grace Pelkey and senior goalie Sophia Noble.

“We’re going to push on the counter attack and have a lot of movement in the halfcourt,” coach Logan Powell said. “Our goal is to win league again and I think we can make a deeper run in the playoffs.”

San Clemente advanced to the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs last season. The Tritons will open their season with a road match against Edison on Thursday, Nov. 30. SC

Welcome to the Big Leagues

Griffin Colapinto qualifies for 2018 WSL Championship Tour with big result at Hawaiian Pro

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Heading into the Hawaiian Pro, the first stop in the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing on the North Shore of Oahu, Griffin Colapinto stood a pretty good chance at qualifying for the 2018 WSL Championship Tour. He was comfortably nestled in the top 10 of the ratings. All he had to do was make a few heats and a lifetime of hard work and dedication would have paid off.

He may have exceeded his expectations. Blitzing through heat after heat, by the time the final day rolled around last week, Colapinto was still moving and grooving, looking every bit like a favorite to win the whole contest. The 19-year-old San Clemente native found himself in a stacked final, facing Filipe Toledo, a San Clemente transplant who’s considered by most to be the best small-wave surfer in the world, Brazil’s Wiggolly Dantas and two-time Hawaiian Pro winner Tahiti’s Michel Bourez. Toledo got going early in the final, leaving his competitors to play catchup. Colapinto went all in.

Trailing by less than a point in the dying seconds of the final, Colapinto uncorked

Tide’s Out for the Hurley Pro

WSL releases 2018 Championship Tour schedule and Lowers isn’t on it

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For the better part of the 21st century, Lower Trestles has been featured prominently on pro surfing’s Championship Tour schedule. But last week, the World Surf League (WSL) released its 2018 calendar and Lowers is noticeably absent.

In fact, there are a couple of big changes

a Hail Mary 360 air to try to steal the win away from Toledo. The crowd held its collective breath, but ultimately, Colapinto came unstuck, ceding the victory to Toledo (it was the first time in the history of the contest that a Brazilian won it). Topping the podium is always the goal, but for Colapinto, a runner-up finish was just as good. For his effort, he was able to climb the WSL ratings and qualify for the 2018 Championship Tour.

coming up next year. In addition to the Hurley Pro and Swatch Pro at Lowers getting clipped, the Fiji Pro, held on the island of Tavarua, is also going away. Meanwhile, the WSL has announced that 2018 will see the first Championship Tour contest in a man-made wave. Instead of a stop in San Clemente, next year’s tour will be heading to the Kelly Slater Surf Ranch in Lemoore, California, in the Central Valley. The WSL has also added a stop at Keramas in Bali.

“The 2018 calendar has some of the most significant changes we have implemented in many years,” explained WSL Commissioner Kieren Perrow. “While we sadly depart from some locations and say thank you to the communities who have supported us, we are also excited with the return to Indonesia and to hold the first ever Championship Tour event in a wave system at Surf Ranch. As the sport evolves, we will continue to explore opportunities to enhance the schedule,

“I’m lost for words almost, I don’t know. I’ve gone through so much hard work, so much hard work with my parents,” said Colapinto as the reality of the situation began to sink in. “My parents have invested so much time in me and I have to thank them a lot because we committed (to professional surfing) when I was 15. I also set goals and I’ve nailed them on the spot, so I’m so proud of that.”

His second-place finish at the Hawaiian Pro stands as his best result of the year on the Qualifying Series. He also finished second in the World Junior Championships last January.

“This will give me a lot of confidence, especially since I’m going to be on tour next year, beating guys like that on tour,” Colapinto said.

He’ll be joined on tour next year by San Clemente’s Kolohe Andino. The season starts in earnest next March with the Quiksilver Pro on the Gold Coast of Australia.

SC

collaborating with our stakeholders—surfers as well as partners.”

While word of the Lowers contest falling off the schedule may come as good news to some of the more dedicated locals that frequent the lineup on a daily basis, it also comes as a disappointment for the children and surf fans in the area who have enjoyed watching the world’s best surfers compete right in their backyard. The only WSL Championship Tour event on the American mainland will now be held 300 miles north of San Clemente in a landlocked farming community.

There is a rumor swirling that the Trestles contest will be absorbed into the WSL’s Qualifying Series next year, but that schedule has yet to be released. Either way, the loss of Trestles on the Championship Tour schedule comes as a big disappointment for area surfers who are inspired by the performances of surfers like Kelly Slater, Mick Fanning, Filipe Toledo and, of course, Kolohe Andino. SC

SURF FORECAST

Water Temperature: 60-63 degrees F

Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair

Thursday: Steep NW swell SSW swell builds in. Wave heights are mostly in the knee-waist-chest high (2-3’+) zone while best exposures see shoulder high (4’) sets. Light winds early, then light+ onshore winds in the afternoon.

Outlook: Small to locally fun size surf to close out the week, with NW/WNW swell and small SSW swell blend good for waist high (3’+) sets at top exposures. Morning winds are calm to light offshore the next few days, with just light onshore flow each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

GROM OF THE WEEK LIAM MURRAY

ne of the problems with being a surfer growing up in San Clemente is that standing out can be a challenge. With so much talent in the water, from world tour athletes like Kolohe Andino and now Griffin Colapinto, to national champs like Kade Matson and Kirra Pinkerton, making a name for one’s self in this town ain’t easy. But 16-year-old Liam Murray’s been too busy to notice.

The San Clemente High School surfer has been ripping lately. Most recently, he came away with a commanding victory at the NSSA contest at 54th Street in Newport Beach. Surfing in a stacked final, he faced Lowers cohorts Nico Coli and Taj Lindblad, as well as Japanese surfer Keitaro Fujinuma, but was able to hold on for a critical win.

Last month, Murray also made it deep into the WSL’s Live Like Zander Pro Junior in Barbados, which was ultimately won by San Clemente’s own Pinkerton and Cole Houshmand.

And when the lanky regular-footer isn’t out throwing bit rotators at Lowers and monkeying around with his friends, you may find him raising cane on a dirt bike. Let’s just put it this way: naturally talented, the kid’s not afraid of going fast and going big. Needless to say, he’s going places. SC