Protestors Urge Public Involvement as SONGS Spent Fuel Storage Draws Near EYE ON SC/PAGE 3 Triton Boys Basketball Preps for South Coast League Play SPORTS/PAGE 28
San Clemente’s Pat Gudauskas, Griffin Colapinto on to CT
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things San Clemente should know this week
Urge Public to Get Involved at
THE LATEST: Operators of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) will soon initiate the process of moving the power plant’s remaining spent nuclear fuel rods from the facility’s cooling tanks to onsite storage facilities, which has incensed activists in the area and compelled them to continue their fight against the action.
A couple hundred people flooded the lawn of the San Clemente Community Center the morning of Dec. 30 to voice their opposition of the storage, which is expected to take place in January.
The protest was hosted by Public Watchdogs, an activist organization based in La Mesa, as well as Team Zissou, a San Clemente High School club that engages publicly in environmental issues.
Signs imploring the cessation of storing more spent nuclear fuel at SONGS were posted at the Community Center and held by participants. Charles Langley, the executive director of Public Watchdogs, donned a yellow radiation protection jumpsuit with a gas mask to symbolize his organization’s opposition to the storage.
Nina Babiarz, a board member of Public Watchdogs, said a lawsuit filed by her organization in federal court on Nov. 14 against the storage is going through a 60-day review by the judge assigned to the case. A decision as to whether the lawsuit will go to trial or not is expected to be rendered by mid-January, Babiarz said.
About 3.6 million pounds of the radioactive fuel rods that activated power when the plant was online are to be stored in 73 stainless steel containers five-eighths of an inch thick, which were made by Holtec International. SONGS already has 51 dry-storage containers constructed by AREVA Nuclear Materials on-site that are in horizontal cement blocks and contain spent nuclear fuel rods. SONGS officials announced the power plant would be permanently closed in 2013 after steam generators cracked and leaked a small amount of radiation, causing an emergency shutdown in 2012.
At the protest, San Clemente City Coun-
cil member Lori Donchak said people should write to Sen. Kamala Harris, D-CA, to compel her to visit SONGS to understand the gravity of the situation.
“We haven’t had a senatorial visit since 2012 with the Blue Ribbon Commission,” Donchak said. “Dry-cask storage is being contemplated in an area with 8 million people who live there. We are a tsunami hazard, we are a fire hazard, we are an earthquake hazard.”
The hazards Donchak mentioned are viewed by locals as a threat to the storage of the fuel rods just a couple hundred feet from the Pacific Ocean. The 8 million people she referred to live within proximity of harm should a nuclear disaster occur.
Another year has come and gone, and with it the hopes of any federal legislation to amend the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to allow temporary storage of the deadly spent nuclear fuel from SONGS, located just south of San Clemente, in locations that are far from the coastline.
Rep. Darrell Issa, CA-49, who represents the congressional district in which San Clemente is located, introduced bills to amend the act from 2015 to 2017, all of which never progressed to floor discussions. Earlier this year, Rep. John Shimkus, IL-15, introduced a similar bill that would allow for the same provisions. The bill was reviewed by several House committees but made it no further. This legislative move is supported by Southern California Edison (SCE), the SONGS
storage said they are convinced if the plans are not halted, the spent fuel will remain at the San O site in perpetuity as the federal government sits on the issue. The Department of Energy is the ultimate authority on where and when the fuel is transported and stored. —Eric Heinz
THE LATEST: According to a report published in November by the Department of Defense (DoD), Camp Pendleton received more than 600 reports of sexual assault from its personnel in a four-year period. Reports were classified as unrestricted, which can lead to an investigation and provide further details of an allegation, or restricted, which provide fewer details but are logged by military records.
Carl Redding, the communication director for Camp Pendleton, said that caution needs to be used when comparing these statistics to other bases in the report, as some of the reports come from on base, off base, at other bases and during active duty.
majority stockholder and operator, whose officials have said at meetings that they too want the spent fuel out of the area.
Some of the fuel is ready to be transported today, while some of it needs to continue to cool until its radiation reduces.
Jackson Hinkle, the president of Team Zissou, led a protest march from Avenida Del Mar to the I-5 freeway with a bullhorn following the group of speakers.
WHAT’S NEXT: Prior to the protest, the San Clemente Times reached out to SCE about the timeline of the storage of the remaining spent fuel rods. SCE officials reiterated comments of Tom Palmisano, the vice president of SONGS decommissioning and chief nuclear officer, made during the Nov. 2 Community Engagement Panel meeting. The panel is comprised of a group of elected city officials, environmental groups, Camp Pendleton and nuclear experts, and is intended to serve as a public information outlet. The panel meets quarterly around Orange and San Diego counties.
Officials from SCE said they expected to move the fuel to dry-cask storage sometime this winter.
“Right now, tentatively, we will be ready to start moving fuel from the spent fuel pools to the dry-storage system in midDecember,” Palmisano said at the Nov. 2 meeting.
The storage process is expected to be completed in mid-2019. Opponents of the
“Just like comparing reports by city or county in the United States, one would not expect the number of sexual assault reports from a less populated location to be comparable to the number of sexual assault reports from a more populated location,” Redding said.
Redding noted that Camp Pendleton has about 25 percent of the active duty Marines.
“No definitive statement can be made about a crime rate at a given installation based on the reporting data,” Redding said. “This is because a number of the reports may concern allegations that have occurred elsewhere in the world or occurred prior to joining the military, but were reported at the installation named.”
The document, “Reports of Sexual Assault Received at Military Installations and Combat Areas of Interest,” covers a broad range of definitions of sexual assault. It compiled reports from fiscal year 2013 to 2017.
“…(We) are unable to determine at our command substantiated reports, courts martial etc. since there are multiple commands on the installation like I Marine Expeditionary Force, Training and Education Command, various Navy commands and others,” Redding said when asked which individual divisions received their number of complaints. “The reports given by the Department of Defense don’t break it down by commands.”
Currently, Camp Pendleton has a process for filing a complaint, which (Cont. on page 6)
(Cont. from page 3)
must go through the base’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) program. According to Redding, SAPR’s mission is two-fold: to address the needs of military members, their spouses and adult dependents that have been victims of sexual assault, and to proactively provide relevant, interactive training on a regular, continuous basis to all Marines and Sailors aboard MCB Camp Pendleton in an effort to eliminate sexual assault. It provides “24-7 sexual assault crisis intervention for all service members, spouses and adult dependents; advocacy and accompaniment during medical, law enforcement and judicial proceedings; systemic advocacy to ensure all victims receive a consistent response to their report; support and services at next duty station (if the victim requests) through the SAPR network.”
WHAT’S NEXT: At this time, Redding said there are no expected changes to policies on Camp Pendleton to addressing sexual assault reports.
Editor’s note: The response from Camp Pendleton officials was longer than the space available in the print edition of this article. To read the full response to questions asked by SC Times, view this article with the same title at www.sanclementetimes.com. EH
THE LATEST: Investigators with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) South Directed Enforcement Team (DET) arrested three suspects accused of burglarizing multiple homes using a distraction scheme during real estate open houses on Dec. 19.
“Investigators believe the suspects started running the scheme in October 2017,” a press release from OCSD stated. “A male suspect would distract the real estate agent, while two female suspects would search other areas of the home and steal items.”
Nino Siganoff, 33; Valerie Siganoff, 36; and Barbara Adams, 29; all of Los Angeles, were booked on suspicion of felony burglary.
The three people arrested were tied to $20,000 worth of stolen items from homes in Ladera Ranch, San Clemente and Anaheim. OCSD officials said they were able to track the suspects from witness reports that provided leads on the case.
While a portion of the recovered property has been returned to some of the victims, the property reunification process is ongoing. Sheriff’s investigators also believe there are potentially more victims of this scheme.
WHAT’S NEXT: On Jan. 3, Orange County District Attorney officials said the three suspects are scheduled for a pretrial on Tuesday, Jan. 16 in Harbor Court.
Anyone who believes they are the owner of the items, or who believes they are a
victim of a similar burglary should contact Sheriff’s investigators at 949.206.6100. Anyone with additional information who would like to submit an anonymous tip can contact Crime Stoppers at 1.855.TIP.OCCS (847.6227) or online at www.occrimestoppers.org. —Staff
THE LATEST: The injunction placed on certain areas of San Clemente for permitting and building structures has been lifted by an Orange County Superior Court judge following the city’s compliance with Senate Bill 2, which mandates adequate space must be given for emergency shelters and can be used for temporary housing of people who are homeless.
A lawsuit filed by the Emergency Shelter Coalition, was settled as the city recently amended its housing element to be more accessible for shelters.
The city had allotted land for shelters, but the areas were all publicly owned by the city, ensuring no private entity could exchange the land to a shelter provider.
The bitter irony for San Clemente officials was that some of the people who sued San Clemente were based out of San Juan Capistrano and Dana Point.
WHAT’S NEXT: On Jan. 1, when asked how many permits had been held up and what the process would be going forward, Assistant City Manager Erik Sund said he would look into it and respond to the San Clemente Times when that information becomes available. —EH
THE LATEST: The Orange County and Inland Empire Metrolink lines will undergo track work resulting in service disruptions for all weekend trains for multiple weekends from January to April, according to a press release from Metrolink. The dates of service disruption include Jan. 6, 7, 20 and 21; Feb 3 and 4; March 3, 4, 10 and 11; and April 21 and 22.
WHAT’S NEXT: During these weekends, regular Metrolink train service will be available for all weekend trains on the OC Line between LA Union Station and Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo and for all weekend trains on the IE-OC Line between San Bernardino—Downtown and Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo. One bus will make all stops between Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo and Oceanside (including San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and San Clemente Pier). For more information, visit www.metrolinktrains.com. —Staff
Issues that are likely to affect San Clemente residents in the new year
BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
If 2017 taught San Clemente residents anything it’s that some issues take time to work through.
Mayor Tim Brown spoke with the San Clemente Times prior to the new year about some of the critical issues coming down the pike and some issues that have been outstanding.
“I think, as a community, one of the things that has resonated for me is that I think we need to finish the fight on a lot of the things that we have started,” Brown said. “The first and foremost being the toll road. Now granted, that’s a long-term engagement; however, each landmark, each issue, has to be finished. We have to be thorough and we have to be on-point. And for me, as I look across the breadth of the different things that the city has taken on, from the toll road to the hospital issue, to ongoing litigation…there’s just a myriad of issues.
“Each of those require that the City Council has staying power,” Brown continued. “We really should try to find a conclusion to these as best as we can.”
This February marks the 90th birthday since the incorporation of the city of San Clemente, and officials are planning a big bash.
The city will celebrate San Clemente Day during the fourth Saturday of February.
“We’re going to be partnering with all different organizations and hopefully have a great 90th birthday, and something that we can celebrate all year, as we embrace our historical roots and understand all the good work that’s been done before us,” Brown said.
Brown also said he wants the weekend to emphasize the hard work that came into making San Clemente what it is today.
Brown said the schedule of events will be announced in the coming weeks, but some of them will include the San Clemente Historical Society and serving chicken dinners, the first dish served during the inception of San Clemente when people bought deeds to land from Ole Hanson, the founder of the city.
The latest developments in the lawsuit by Saddleback Memorial Medical Center
The city continues to battle against the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA), which operates and administers the toll roads in Orange County. The latest plans for the TCA are to study seven ideas—four of which are toll roads through San Clemente—that officials argue would alleviate traffic congestion in the area. San Clemente’s own representatives on the board have disagreed with this notion.
Brown said some of the plans San Cle-
against the city of San Clemente are likely to be heard in January. A hearing was scheduled in December, but was postponed due to counsel scheduling conflicts.
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in San Clemente was closed after more than 40 years of operation. It was purchased by MemorialCare Medical Group in 2005, but the medical group claimed it was losing more money than it could shore up, as fewer inpatient clients were staying at the hospital. MemorialCare offered to turn the location into advanced urgent care, but the residents of San Clemente were not in favor of that alternative.
If the judge rules in favor of the city’s zoning, then the matter is effectively over. But if the judge rules against the zoning, then it could be determined how much
mente has to rid this impending toll road are tied up in litigation against a protective agreement that was forged between environmental groups and the TCA, which forbids the environmentalists from opposing toll roads through San Clemente in exchange for nixing any plans to build one through Trestles, San Onofre State Park, portions near Camp Pendleton and other areas of South San Clemente. The city is not against the settlement itself, but the protective agreement.
“Outside of the litigation, I think as a city, we really need to build some bridges with some of the other South Orange County cities,” Brown said. “I know we
money Saddleback will be entitled. Saddleback demanded a payment of $42.5 million from the city for what its officials viewed as restrictive zoning placed upon it.
Brown said it’s difficult to foresee what the city’s options would be if MemorialCare is awarded its full amount.
“It’s (an amount) that…was meant to have an impact,” Brown said. “I can’t speculate too much of what the outcome of the case will be and what the impacts will be, but as a community we just want what’s best for the health and safety of our residents. We’re hopeful that we’ll have a good outcome, and we’ll do everything we can to avoid that.”
Brown said the city has approached various medical service providers who may want to either construct a hospital with an emergency room or take over
may not see eye-to-eye on this issue, and it’s always a temptation to say, ‘It doesn’t bother us, so we’ll let them deal with it.’ But I do think there’s some common ground we can find with other agencies and other cities.”
Brown said it’s difficult for San Clemente to plan regional mobility, as its responsibility is to the residents. But he said he didn’t think TCA has all the answers to the problems either.
“I wish the TCA had included us a little more in what their grand designs were,” Brown said. “Now, it feels as if we’re going to be approaching this from different positions.”
existing space, so long as it provides emergency service.
The city is still working on lawsuits related to short-term living units, signage at the Outlets at San Clemente and some other issues, and Brown said across the board, it’s “not great” for the city to have so many issues at once.
The city increased its legal services spending two-fold between 2015 and 2017, to the tune of more than $2 million.
“We need to defend the city and its ordinances, but at the same time we have to be responsible, and that’s where as a Council and as mayor, I’m hopeful we can find resolutions on those points,” Brown said. SC
Positive Vibe Warriors present a $10,000 check to the San Clemente Lifeguard and Junior Guard Foundation. From left, Bill Blackwill, Tanner Gudauskas, Lt. Rod Mellott, Dane Gudauskas, Greg Hulsizer, Pat Gudauskas, John McMains, Tom Gudauskas and Jim Nielsen. Photo: Shelley Hulsizer
COMPILED BY STAFF
The Outlets at San Clemente celebrated its second annual Styled for the Season event in partnership with CHOC Children’s Hospital (CHOC) and style bloggers to make the holidays a little brighter for kids and young adults undergoing cancer treatment.
The Outlets hosted 19 style bloggers in the Center’s VIP Lounge on Nov. 30, where each blogger was “paired” with a CHOC patient. Participating bloggers were given an information card that included the likes, dislikes, clothing and shoe sizes, favorite colors and style inspiration for CHOC patients ranging from 18 months to 24 years old. The Outlets donated $150 in gift cards to the center’s retailers to each blogger to create the perfect holiday outfit for each CHOC patient. After shopping, the bloggers returned to Outlets at San Clemente’s VIP Lounge to take photos of the ensembles, wrap their gifts and write a holiday greeting card to their CHOC buddy. This “Wrap Party” in the VIP Lounge also featured bite-sized foods provided by Ruby’s Diner, a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory hot chocolate bar and holiday treats.
Following Outlets at San Clemente’s Styled for the Season shopping event, on Dec. 13, Santa Claus joined the bloggers to deliver the personalized outfits to CHOC and bring joy to these patients and their families during the holidays. The patients were able to meet and interact with the style bloggers and the Outlets at San Clemente team while opening their gifts. In addition to gifts, the patients and their
Victoria Murphy, program director for the OC Ocean Stewards program, will review resources for teachers and community members that are part of the MY HERO online learning programs. Victoria has been directing MY HERO media arts education programs with the Laguna Art Museum and Laguna Beach Boys & Girls Clubs, and has represented MY HERO at global education conferences internationally and across the U.S.
Nancy Caruso, founder of Get Inspired, will be presenting her model program for her work restoring kelp along the Southern California coastline. She is a marine biologist and ocean conservationist working with students and schools throughout Southern California restoring not only kelp beds, but also seeding fish and abalone.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 7
DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOKSTORE BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR
families enjoyed hot chocolate, hands-on holiday activities and photo opportunities with Santa Claus and his elf.
On Dec. 26, Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation donated a $10,000 check to the San Clemente Lifeguard and Jr. Lifeguard Foundation. The program hosts clinics throughout the summer for young children who one day seek to try out for the San Clemente Marine Safety Division or other lifeguard programs. The money will be used for scholarships for children who cannot afford the fees to participate as well as equipment.
The MY HERO Project, Eco-Heroes, Ocean Stewards and Zero Trash programs will be featured at the January meeting of the San Clemente Coastal Advisory Committee on Thursday, Jan. 11, at 7 p.m. in the Fireside Room, Community Center, 100 N. Seville.
The MY HERO Project is an awardwinning nonprofit educational foundation recognizing exemplary community and environmental programs. It’s also the producer of the MY HERO documentary film, Laguna Beach Eco-Heroes, which has aired on Cox TV and is supported by the Massen Greene Foundation.
Jeanne Meyers, co-founder and director of the MY HERO Project, has traveled around the world creating award-winning documentaries celebrating real-life heroes and will present an overview of the program.
MY HERO is used in classrooms around the world to promote positive role models.
Brad McGirr, current City Council member and former mayor of Rancho Santa Margarita (RSM), will discuss the Zero Trash RSM program, which he initiated in 2014. Zero Trash RSM is an all-volunteer community organization dedicated to ridding city streets, parks and open space areas of litter, energizing people to serve their community, and encouraging personal responsibility for the protection of the environment and the beautification of Rancho Santa Margarita.
For more information, contact the city of San Clemente at 949.361.8200 or visit www.san-clemente.org.
Join Community Outreach Alliance (COA) for a free leadership workshop from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 4 at 1040 Calle Negocio in San Clemente. A panel of leading experts will speak and answer questions about what it means to be a leader in our everyday lives. Chapman University students will discuss leadership purposes at the collegiate level. RSVP or send questions to Teri Steel at coa.teristeel@gmail.com.
Orange County Supervisor Lisa Bartlett was installed at the California State Association of Counties (CSAC) Annual Conference as the 2018 Second Vice President. She was unanimously supported by her colleagues on the CSAC Board of Directors at the General Assembly, according to a press release. Bartlett is the first woman to represent Orange County as an officer on the CSAC Board of Directors.
“I am honored to be unanimously supported by the CSAC Board,” Bartlett said. “I look forward to continuing to advocate our local needs at the state level.”
Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com by Monday the week of publication.
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Everything in the store will be 50 percent off everything in the store. Many great bargains. Shop early for the best selection. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar. 949.276.6342.
MONDAY, JANUARY 8
AMERICAN LEGION POST 423 MEETING
6 p.m. American Legion meets the second Monday of every month. San Clemente Elks Lodge, 1505. N. El Camino Real. 949.429.5003. strgeezr47@gmail.com.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 9
WELLNESS AND PREVENTION COALITION MEETING
4 p.m. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of every month in the Triton Center Conference Room at San Clemente High School, 700 Avenida Pico. 949.680.0516. www. wellnessandpreventionsanclemente. com.
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, JANUARY 10
VFW POST 7142 MEETING
7 p.m. The San Clemente VFW Post 7142 will host its regularly scheduled meeting. San Clemente Elks Lodge, 1505 N. El Camino Real. 949.464.8391. www.vfw7142.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
Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com
ADVERTISING
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Susie Lantz, 949.388.7700, x111 slantz@picketfencemedia.com
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Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com
BUSINESS MANAGER
Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com
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
> Zach Cavanagh
Special Projects
Editor
> Andrea PapagianisCamacho
ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING
Associate Publisher
> Lauralyn Loynes
> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)
> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Real
Executive
> Jennifer Guy
ART/DESIGN
Art Director
> Jasmine Smith
Graphic Designer
> Chelsie Rex
OPERATIONS
Finance Director
> Mike Reed
Business Manager
> Alyssa Garrett
Accounting & Distribution Manager
> Tricia Zines
SPECIAL THANKS
Robert Miller
CONTRIBUTORS
Megan Bianco
Victor Carno
Tim Trent
Jake Howard
Erin McFaul
San Clemente Times Vol. 13, Issue 1. 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 2018. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
GUEST OPINION: City Council Corner by City Council member Lori Donchak
an Clemente, the “Spanish Village by the Sea,” celebrates its 90th birthday in February. We’re known for a deep sense of history, planned expanses of open space, epic beaches and a commitment to community. All this was envisioned by the city’s founder, Ole Hanson, in 1928.
A lesser known fact about Ole Hanson was his fierce commitment to public safety. He insisted on electricity as an original feature of our town, claiming, “One electric light is worth one-half a policeman.” And he was correct. According to historic resources, crime in 1928 solely concerned speeders, which ultimately prompted installation of the first stop signs in 1930. Our original jail had only two cells and well-served a growing community into the 1960s. Hanson believed concern for fellow residents was a way to prevent crime. From the beginning, everyone in San Clemente looked out for each other. Of course, the world’s changed. Compared to the original 650 residents, 65,975 of us now call San Clemente home. More than ever, as individuals, we need to actively practice safety for a better community.
If you’re a home or business owner, take a page from Ole Hanson and consider a lighting security plan. Experts say motionsensitive lighting around the outside of a
BY RACHAEL MATTICE, GROUP MANAGING EDITOR
lease join me in formally welcoming Zach Cavanagh to Picket Fence Media as the Sports Editor for the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch
Zach joins the newsroom having previously worked as a sports contributor for the OC Register. He was also a broadcaster for various radio channels and podcasts such as Long Beach State Hockey, KBeach Radio, KSBR 88.5 and OCRockRadio.com, among others. He has built his career on covering a broad spectrum of sports, including coverage of many South Orange County teams such as San Clemente football, Dana Hills cross country and JSerra girls soccer.
Hailing originally from Laguna Niguel, Zach is looking forward to diving
structure is an effective crime deterrent. The element of surprise distracts burglars and also temporarily impairs their vision. Lights are important on all sides of a building, not just the front. Invest in light timers both inside and out. Seasoned burglars watch places to get a sense of routine. Unpredictable lighting thwarts them. Engage your neighbors. A neighborhood with a lighting security plan is a powerful statement.
At our December City Council meeting, Chief of San Clemente Police Services, Lt. Mike Peters, provided an excellent update on San Clemente crime and encouraged use of residential surveillance cameras. There are many brands to consider. The city offers a one-week, freetrial program for household, front-door cameras that send you instant alerts when motion is detected. It’s weather-proof and wire-free, with two-way communication and video footage. Learn more at www. san-clemente.org.
Landscaping choices are proven to deter burglars. Crime prevention through environmental design is a growing industry. The first goal is to maximize visibility
around a building. Shrubs should be kept lower than 3 feet to remove potential hiding places. Next, impede window access by using gravel as ground cover (crunch alert!) and low thorny plants such as drought-tolerant bougainvillea, cactus or succulents. Burglars look for the easy mark and spend on average 10 minutes on a job. Measures that slow them down are effective.
Finally, make simple acts true habits. Always lock up cars, doors, windows, garages, bicycles. Don’t leave garage doors open or cars loaded with tempting targets. Call the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for free vacation checks 949.361.8269 or ask a neighbor to keep an eye out and reciprocate the favor.
Ole Hanson’s dream was to give residents “a happy place to live.” His dream depends on all of us working proactively to provide public safety and keeping on that one electric light.
I’m always glad to hear from you. Drop me a note at donchakl@san-clemente.org. Lori Donchak is a Council member for the city of San Clemente. SC
deeper into the realm of South County sports and outdoors for Picket Fence Media readers.
We are thrilled to have him as the sports and outdoors team captain and in the trenches with us.
Zach can be reached at zcavanagh@ picketfencemedia.com, sports@picketfencemedia.com and at 949.388.7700. ext.110. SC
KERRY
SINK, San Clemente
Here in San Clemente, it’s not news that parking is at a premium.
That being said, it’s also not cool that certain residents or businesses on some streets think they are entitled to abuse the parking or others who believe they control who parks.
In this particular instance, a homeowner was away on vacation and I noticed that a young neighbor’s vehicle was partially blocking the driveway. Only by inches, but obviously enough to capture the attention of the across-the-street neighbor who boastfully denounced who the offender was to the homeowner hastily upon returning from said vacation.
Those of us who live in southwest San Clemente all have to adapt to this. In fact, all of our town deals with this on a regular basis. Parking has been exasperated compared to when I was younger, but what were we thinking by not expecting this to happen. Whenever you promote a town with street fairs and car shows, you are inviting outside elements to arrive and stay, some with only the intent on partying and sometimes disruption, others just love our town.
We now have not-so-sober living homes on or near beachfront property, homeless persons occupying motor homes and all sorts of derelict persons living on our streets.
All of this is done on behalf of the state of California mandating affordable housing, iHOPE of San Clemente and other charitable organizations.
All of these efforts to help those less fortunate contribute to the density and overcrowding of our streets in one form or another.
Saying this doesn’t make me the Grinch here. I do believe that we can help those in need. But in my opinion, it comes with attachments. Regular policing of known trouble spots and neighborhood watch groups having the ability to report problems and actually getting support from the city and local authorities.
As for the neighbors and their nosey watchdogs, just chill out if your own neighbor is 2 inches over your driveway while you are out of town. It’s not usurping of your private space or stealing from you, it’s just a popular place to live.
FENCE ADVERTISING AT SAN CLEMENTE HIGH SCHOOL
BILL BROOKS, San Clemente
As little as 10 years ago, most high schools across the country had vending machines that sold soft drinks on their campuses. Proceeds from the soft drink sales went to support programs at the
school much like the awesome programs that the San Clemente Educational Foundation (SCEF) supports. Both the Coca Cola and Pepsi Cola companies placed their vending machines on campuses in order to raise funds for schools.
As society became aware of the health risks from the consumption of sugar-laden soft drinks, the vast majority of schools have removed these machines, even though the income was lost. Most schools put students’ nutrition and health ahead of raising funds.
People are overexposed to advertising on a daily basis, and there is research that shows advertising is harmful to children and young people. A lot of this research concludes that the advertising of both fast food and junk food contribute to the childhood obesity problem in the United States.
I realize SCEF needs to raise funds to support everything San Clemente High School is able to offer; however, it may be time to reexamine fence advertising.
This program isn’t unique to SCHS, as many schools throughout San Clemente allow advertising on their fences. There is a lot of advertising in the form of 12inch by 18-inch yard signs that advertise everything from tutoring services to youth sports to swim and piano lessons that are placed on or in the vicinity of every school in the city. No one pays the educational foundation for this advertising, but it is kept along with the banners that have been paid for. At the very least, SCEF as well as other educational foundations should remove unpaid advertising signs.
Most school districts do not allow advertising because of the potential harm to their students. Even though the banner proceeds benefit the school, I think SCEF needs to take a hard look at the costs to students as well as the aesthetics of the community at large. Banner advertising may need to be ended like soft drink sales.
EVA O’KEEFE, San Clemente
Many constituents from San Clemente made the trip to Irvine on Dec. 14 to express their concerns about the proposed toll road and toll lanes in South Orange County.
Just like the June 5 forum, where gross violations of the First and Fourth Amendment rights occurred in South Orange County, the violations to our rights continue.
The rules on how the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) joint board meetings are conducted changed without board vote as required by the Brown Act. Instead of being able to comment during public comments and every agenda item that one chooses, the TCA limited our participation to just once per meeting and divided the comment section into three when there were two before. One of our representatives, San Clemente Council member Kathy Ward, objected to this change. Her objections were dismissed. Director Todd Spitzer, who is running for Orange County District Attorney, generally votes in favor of advancing the toll road project, but he objected
strongly as well. The ACLU has called this type of action illegal. Also, the TCA clerk allowed the mayor of Mission Viejo, Wendy Bucknum—a staunch pro toll road supporter—to speak first, bypassing many of the San Clemente speakers who had been patiently waiting for hours to speak. Many of the San Clemente constituents asked if they could switch spots with others, and the TCA clerk said “no,” but that consideration was given to Mission Viejo.
The constituents of San Clemente have always been polite, very prepared and educated on the subjects presented. The same can’t be said about the TCA directors who get up in the middle of testimony, chat, eat, text while the speakers from San Clemente, San Juan and Rancho Mission Viejo are making impassioned pleas to hear their case. By the time open comments number three happened, most of the directors had left for the day. The San Clemente residents who waited over four hours to speak had a skeleton group of directors to listen to their grievances.
Next TCA meeting is scheduled to be Thursday, Feb. 8, at 125 Pacifica, Irvine. 9:30 a.m. Show up at 8:30 a.m. to get a card or speak during any agenda item.
ROBIN BRANDT, San Clemente
In a time where available revenues are decreasing and financial needs are increasing, there is no logic to using tax dollars from any source to fund a toll road.
The 2015 ten-year State Highway Operation and Protection Program Plan (SHOPP) forecasts $8 billion needed per year to do necessary maintenance on the state’s highways and bridges. Current funding from the gasoline taxes are about $2.3 billion per year. This shortfall has resulted in a need to prioritize spending and the adoption of a “fix it first” policy toward our highways. This policy favors repairs or other work to improve efficiency over new construction. Revenues from gas taxes are declining, partly because they were not indexed to inflation and partly because of an ongoing trend of fewer miles traveled per person. California’s population is aging, and an ever-increasing percentage of residents don’t commute. Even younger residents are inclined to drive less. Add to this greatly improved vehicle fuel efficiency and all signs indicate that the highway fund will not see an increase in funding in years to come. The governor and the legislature are exploring alternatives, including a road charge tied to miles traveled rather than fuel purchased, as a source of pay-as-you-go financing. Newly constructed toll roads do not address any of these problems, and to the extent that they divert highway funds or encumber the state with more debt, they actually do harm. Already, toll rates on the 241 and 73 are significantly higher than equivalent roads elsewhere in the country, and still the revenues from existing toll roads ($167,635 in FY2016) barely cover debt service, and the interest payments will increase in the future. This does not
seem to be a reasonable solution. Caltrans must focus its resources and strategic efforts on getting the maximum value out of our existing transportation network. The 241 extension plays no part in reaching the state’s goals.
LEE WINOCUR FIELD, Ph.D., San Clemente Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos recently announced that her department will be revisiting the Title IX guidelines on campus sexual assault. The effect of any changes will make it harder to discipline the thousands of students, almost all of them men, who are accused of sexual violence against women each year and return us to the era during which young women were stigmatized for speaking up.
According to Brett Sokolow, executive director of the Association of Title IX Administrators, 10,000 to 12,000 cases of campus rape reach the disciplinary phase every year. Add to that the many cases of reported and unreported sexual harassment, stalking and relationship violence, and it becomes clear that on-campus violence is a critical problem deserving weighty consequences.
But how these cases should be handled is a challenge for any administration. How do schools show support for the survivors while ensuring fairness to both parties? Colleges and universities are in a delicate position, reluctant to dismantle the current system for addressing sexual assault, while anticipating the possible loss of federal funds for not conceding to new guidelines. Make no mistake, Title IX remains the law of the land. This announcement does not alter in any way schools’ responsibilities. DeVos’ speech noted many situations in which schools have failed to adhere to the law. The response to this challenge is to enforce Title IX more vigorously, not to undermine it.
Now is the time for our local colleges and universities to step up and demonstrate that they will do the right thing for their students even in the midst of potential rollbacks from the Department of Education. The American Association of University Women together with hundreds of organizations across the country remains committed to protecting and defending Title IX. Students’ access to an education in a safe and secure environment free from the threat of assault is on the line. Schools, and the Department of Education, owe it to all students to uphold their civil rights, a promise Mrs. DeVos’ announcement would most certainly deny.
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.
Move up to grand-scale executive-class living at this gorgeous near-new residence in Talega of San Clemente’s distinguished Alora neighborhood. Attention to detail and a keen eye for selecting premium upgrades shine throughout the two-level design, where six ensuite bedrooms including a first-floor suite, six-and-one-half baths, a study and media room are featured in approx. 4,503 square feet. A separate entrance leads to a private guest/maid’s suite with kitchenette and living room. An oversized dining room provides the ideal gathering space for entertaining in style, and a great room sets the stage for casual get-togethers. Fully upgraded, a chef’s kitchen presents designer countertops and backsplash, an island with prep sink and seating, a walk-in pantry, nook, butler’s pantry with wine rack, and stainless steel KitchenAid appliances including a wine cooler and two dishwashers. As the largest plan in Alora, it affords a magnificent master suite with tray ceiling, walk-in closet, walk-in shower with two heads, a stand-alone soaking tub and a sit-down vanity. Plantation shutters and designer window treatments, custom lighting fixtures, high ceilings, high-end millwork and a blend of wood, travertine and plush carpet lend additional character to the residence. Lush and elegant landscaping complements a gated entry courtyard and a phenomenal backyard with pool, spa, fountains, built-in seating area with open gas fireplace, a built-in BBQ and pizza oven, and a delightful loggia with fireplace and TV.
Doug Echelberger
Realtor® CalBRE #0117639
Broker CalBRE #01934115
(949) 498-7711 • www.Echelberger.com
SanClemente
COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO
TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS
10 a.m.-1 p.m. All seniors 55 or older are welcome 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.
LIVE MUSIC: SHAWN JONES
7 p.m. Shawn Jones will perform at Iva Lee’s in San Clemente. 555 N. El Camino Real. 949. 361.2855. www.ivalees.com/ live-music.
SESSIONS AT STILLWATER
7 p.m. Listen to live music when artists from around the world perform together. StillWater Spirits and Sounds. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. www.danapointstillwater.com.
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 Sportfishing & Whale Watching. 34675 Street of the Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 949.496.5794. www.danawharf.com.
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.
BOO STUBBS AT BARNOA WINE COMPANY
7:30 p.m. Boo Stubbs will perform live music at Barnoa Wine Company. 831 Via Suerte, No. 106, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. www.barnoawinebar.com.
BY ERIN MCFAUL, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
The Point Restaurant and Bar has provided an exciting and friendly dining experience for the past five years. From ukulele lessons to open mic night, owner Peter Andriet, who moved to the Dana Point area from Canada, keeps customers coming back for the entertainment and delicious food.
“It’s a casual family sports bar, late night entertainment and dancing venue,” Andriet said. “We hit all three categories.”
The happy hour menu, offered every day from 3-7 p.m. and all day Monday, offers a variety of the restaurant’s most popular dishes in shareable portions. With their St. Louis Style BBQ Ribs, The Point brings
LIVE MUSIC: BLEED AMERICAN WITH POP CULTURE
9 p.m. Bleed American will perform at OC Tavern in San Clemente. Tickets are $10, the show is 21 and over. 949.542.8877. 2369 S. El Camino Real. www.octavern.com.
Saturday | 06
TALEGA RUN CLUB
7:30 a.m. Whether you are about to tackle your first 5K or you are just keeping your cardio and running prowess in top form, be sure to stop by Peet’s Coffee in Talega. Every Saturday a group runners of varying skill level take a brisk three mile run around a pre-determined course. Admission is free. 801 Avenida Talega, San
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.
LIVE MUSIC: VIJAY VENKATESH AT CASA ROMANTICA
a taste of the Midwest to Dana Point. The plate, which comes with four ribs, is perfect for customers looking to try a few different dishes. Each tender stack of ribs comes coated in a sweet barbecue sauce and is piled on top of the customer’s choice of crispy fries—garlic, sidewinder or sweet potato—or hand battered onion rings.
In addition to the happy hour menu, The Point offers a $10 lunch special Tuesday through Friday that includes either a burger, pizza or soup and salad along with their choice of a happy hour drink.
The Point 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
Clemente. 949.588.5054. www.facebook. com/2XUSanClemente.
FREE SATURDAY FILM
10 a.m.-noon. The San Juan Capistrano Friends of the Library welcomes families to enjoy free popcorn and a movie at La Sala Auditorium. This month’s film is Despicable Me 3. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1752. www.facebook.com/SJCFriends.
SATURDAYS AT THE SWALLOW’S INN
2:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. Live music from rotating bands at The Swallow’s Inn. Burgers and wings from Lisa’s Kitchen also are available. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.
Noon. As part of a special free concert to kick off the year, concert pianist Vijay Venkatesh will perform for the public in the Main Salon. A native of South Orange County, Venkatesh recently won the Classics Alive Artists Competition, the Frances Walton Chamber Music Competition and the Seattle Symphony International Competition. The concert is part of the D. Yoder Family Sundays, which are underwritten by June Yoder. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada. San Clemente. www.casaromantica.com
Monday | 08
KOI FISH FEEDING
12:45 p.m. Everyday visitors are welcomed to help Mission San Juan Capistrano feed their koi fish in both courtyards. Fish food is free for Mission Preservation Society members and $1 for non-members. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.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. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com.
COUNTRY DANCING AND ALL DAY HAPPY HOUR
7 p.m.-Midnight. Stop by the Swallows Inn for country dancing with DJ Patrick and a happy hour that lasts all day. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.
(Cont. on page 23)
EDITOR’S PICK
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens will host acclaimed violinist and composer Michi Wiancko for its Casa Classic series at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan.11 at Casa Romantica, located at 415 Avenida Granada.
“Since her debut concerto performances with the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic, Wiancko has thrilled and delighted audiences with her performances alongside a wide variety of both classical and contemporary recording artists,” according to a press release from Casa Romantica.
Wiancko was raised in San Clemente and trained locally for many years. Her family was highly supportive in nurturing the artistic talents of their children, and both Michi and her brother, Paul, (a similarly-acclaimed cellist who performed at Casa Romantica in January 2017) went on to achieve international accolades. After completing her Bachelor of Music at the Cleveland Institute of Music and her master’s degree from Juilliard, she made her East Coast recital debut at Carnegie’s Weill Hall. She has performed and toured extensively with a diverse array of leaders in classical and contemporary music.
Highlights of her 2017-18 season include a world premiere in Carnegie Hall with the International Contemporary Ensemble, and performances with Yo-Yo Ma and the Silk Road Ensemble in China, Taiwan, South Korea and Abu Dhabi.
“Michi Wiancko is a professional musician who performs with today’s biggest names in classical music, and her development was influenced by Southern California’s art scene,” Casa Romantica Executive Director Berenika Schmitz said. “It is with pride that we share her accomplishments with our community and bring international talent back home.”
In addition to the recital, Wiancko will perform one completely improvised work, inspired by the beauty of Casa Romantica.
Tickets are now available online at www.casaromantica.org and by telephone at 949.498.2139 for Casa Classic: Michi Wiancko in Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens’ Main Salon. General admission is $25; member admission is $20.
(Cont. from page 20)
Tuesday | 09
HAPA J’S TACO TUESDAY
11 a.m.-9 p.m. Join Hapa J’s for a taco Tuesday that reaches beyond your average chicken or carne asada tacos. Enjoy seared ahi poke, kalbi short rib and kalua pig tacos in addition to the more traditional selections. 2016 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.276.6675. www.hapajs.com.
OPEN MIC NIGHT
6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
KARAOKE AT GOODY’S
8 p.m. Karaoke at Goody’s Tavern in San Clemente. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.
Wednesday | 10
FRENCH CONVERSATION CLUB
2-4 p.m. Every Wednesday. Look for the table with the French flag surrounded by a group of people speaking French. No cost to join. Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.493.5228, or 949.369.5482.
FREE COMEDY AT 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.
BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
As we head into 2018, we also dive into the weakest month of the year in cinema. Rather than review a mediocre studio film dumped into January, I’m recommending a double feature of two low-key awardscontenders of this recent Oscar season: Craig Gillespie’s I, Tonya and Aaron Sorkin’s Molly’s Game. Both got wider release dates over the New Year’s weekend, and both actually fit the tone for a back-to-back viewing.
I, Tonya is a satirical biopic on Olympic figure skater Tonya Harding (Margot Robbie) and her rise to glory until she instantly became the center of attention when she’s involved with a fellow skater’s injury during the 1994 ceremonies. Allison Janney portrays Tonya’s abrasive mother and manager, LaVona, and Sebastian Stan
‘Molly’s
plays Tonya’s equally aggressive thenhusband, Jeff Gillooly.
Molly’s Game follows another Olympic figure, Molly Bloom (Jessica Chastain), who spent the first half of her life training as a skier, only to injure herself and move to LA in 2003. Quickly she runs the biggest poker game in Hollywood and Manhattan for eight years before getting busted with federal charges. Kevin Costner appears as Molly’s cold father and trainer, and Idris Elba is her reluctant attorney.
Both films are modern period pieces of sorts, and center on two incredible real-life episodes of two infamous young women. Admittedly, both films are imperfect; Tonya would have advanced with a stronger script and Molly’s could have used tighter editing. But the sarcastic atmospheres and strong performances might be a fresh way to start 2018. SC
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
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
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
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
Panagia Music: Music Lessons and More! 949.705.7573, panagiamusic@gmail. com, www.panagiamusic.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
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 Susie Lantz at 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@picketfencemedia.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.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
Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
SALONS
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
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT
Offshore Construction 877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org
MASTER SUITE/STUDIO FOR RENT IN NE SC
Master suite with kitchenette built in. Private entrance, parking for 1 car, patio space, refrigerator and space heater included. Quiet neighborhood. You pay no utilities. $1350.00/ month. Call Elizabeth for details/viewing. 949-233-4316
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 at Lantern Bay Carpets: 949-240-1545.
SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.
THE SCHENKENBERGER’S NEED SOME HELP
Steve Shenkenberger, husband and father of five young boys, was riding his mountain bike on Super Bowl Sunday when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver in Laguna Niguel. The family is need of donations for ongoing medical expenses and childcare. Please consider donating at www.gofundme.com/ the-schenkenbergers-medical-bills.
ROOMATE WANTED TO SHARE LUXURY CONDO ON THE BLUFFS above the beach in San Clemente. Furnished Master Bedroom Suite, Private Bath and Patio. Laundry, parking, separate entrance. $850 per month includes utilities. No pets, parties or smoking. SheilaPatterson.esq@cox.net
WANTED! STAMPS!
Buying Large Postage Stamp Collections. Nick (619) 672-0434
In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com.
Call at Susie Lantz for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@picketfencemedia.com.
GUEST OPINION: Wellness and Prevention by
Susan Parmelee
The Wellness & Prevention Center has been serving students and families for over four years. This year we have made a resolution to help young people and their families reduce their stress and anxiety through choosing a more balanced lifestyle. Therapists who work with the youth and families in our schools have noted an increase in youth anxiety. This rise mirrors a nationwide trend of youth and adults facing symptoms that affect daily lives and may lead to avoiding school and social activities as well as serious health complications, including suicidal thoughts and substance misuse. How can we, as a community, help our youth learn healthy habits and increase positive approaches to the challenges facing our youth? Perhaps we need to reflect on the overscheduling that seems to have become a prevalent part of our daily lives, as well as the constant barrage of information available at our fingertips. Young people learn how to deal with difficult situations and stressors by watching adult behavior. How adults solve problems and choose to tackle anger and frustration is a fair predictor of how our children will behave. The following are a few questions we may all want to consider as we approach a new year:
1. Do I bring my work home with me and expect others to do the same? Cell phones, tablets and laptops have made it difficult to separate our personal from our
professional worlds. Consider a family meeting with the goal of setting time limits on social media and screen use in tandem with increasing face-to-face interactions. Model good listening skills, show your partner and your child that you can give them your full attention and spend more time listening than talking. Try to keep electronic devices away from the dinner table, both at home and when dining out.
2. Am I taking good care of my body? Nutrition and exercise are as important to mood and well-being as protecting time away from schoolwork and careers. Healthy eating translates to proper nutrition, not dieting. Reading labels and avoiding overly processed foods is a great way to start with more conscious food choices.
By Susan Parmelee
In addition to healthy eating, our bodies need daily movement. Exercise boosts the activity of serotonin receptors, which increases happiness. Choose activities you are likely to stick with, exercise with a friend and vary routines.
3. Do I allow time to explore my passions? Most of us can name the passions of our children, but do we take time to explore our own interests? Some of us are lucky enough to combine our passions and careers, for others it is important to head out and surf several times a week to feel grounded and capable of achieving in other parts of our lives. Young people need our guidance in taking time to do what they love, just for the joy it brings, sometimes without the pressure of a performance or with an elite team. An important part of reducing stress and the related increases in clinical anxiety is to keep our lives in balance and to avoid the need for perfection in every aspect of what we do. Helping our young people to achieve balance may require that we examine our own expectations for our children’s ability to achieve in school, so-
Eight-month-old Peach is a playful kitty looking for her “purr-ever” home. Quite affectionate, Peach loves a good snuggle and a scratch behind the ears. You can’t go wrong with a sweetie like Peach. If you would like to know more about Peach, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente. SC
A gray whale was found stranded in San Clemente in 1974. This photo shows the right side oblique of the whale, as beachgoers hustle to return it to the ocean.
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.
cial life and outside activities. As we ring in the New Year, the Wellness & Prevention Center plans to provide more information that helps youth and families balance their lives.
Do you want to learn more and get tips and links? Follow us on Facebook at @wellnessandpreventioncenterSCHS and sign up for or educational emails on our website at www.wpc-oc.org. Want to help our organization? Attend our Wellness & Prevention Coalition meetings on the second Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. at
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
189 Avenida La Cuesta. Want more information? Email info@www.wpc-oc.org.
Susan Parmelee is a mental health social worker and one of the founders of the Wellness & Prevention Center, San Clemente. She can be reached at susan@wellnessandpreventionsanclemente.com. SC
BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For in-game updates, news and more for all San Clemente High School sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports
At the start of the holiday break, Josh Tabb and Mascious Vaughn took home wins at the Ed Springs Invitational.
Tabb won the 138-pound title and Vaughn captured the 171-pound title at Brea Olinda High on Dec. 23.
Tabb took a first-round bye as the No. 2 seed and ran with it to four straight
victories by decision. While his first three matches were low-scoring (4-1, 6-1, 5-0), Tabb had an explosive match for the title.
Tabb outdueled Micah Kaneshiro of La Serna, 15-6, to win his bracket.
Vaughn had a first-round bye as the No. 2 seed and made quick work with two wins by fall in 30 seconds and in 1:20. Vaughn followed with an 11-4 decision win and outlasted Kian Abedi of Dana Hills for the weight-division title, 6-5.
Vaughn followed up with a third-place showing at the Blackwatch Tournament at Upland High on Dec. 28.
Vaughn had a first-round bye at 170 pounds and captured three wins by fall before losing in the semifinals. He won another match by fall in the consolation bracket and took bronze with a 14-4 decision over Allan Ambriz of Chaffey.
Liliana Carteno-Dzul also found bronze at the Blackwatch Tournament in the girls 101-pound bracket. Carteno-Dzul had a first-
BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
As the calendar turns, it means only one thing for the San Clemente boys basketball team: South Coast League play.
The new year has been kind to the Tritons as they enter league play with three consecutive titles from the last three seasons. But the heavy burden of being champions weighs on the team as San
San Clemente Times January 4–10, 2018
Clemente (12-4) enters next week with a bullseye on their back with groups of hungry, talented teams ready to strike.
“We definitely know what we’re up against,” Tritons coach Marc Popovich said. “Trabuco Hills and Aliso Niguel both return all five starters from last season. Tesoro is young and very good. El Toro returns a lot of guys.”
“Everybody brings a lot of challenges
round bye and won her first two matches including one by fall in the quarterfinals. She lost her semifinal match but bounced back with a fall victory in the third-place match.
San Clemente turns back to its league schedule with a dual meet at Trabuco Hills on Tuesday, Jan. 9 and will compete in the Troy Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 13.
The Tritons boys soccer team’s defense was quite stingy over the giving season.
San Clemente (7-3-3) has given up just four goals in its last nine games with six shutouts over that span.
In the Marina tournament, Jake Carter posted shutouts over La Mirada and St. Margaret’s. Curtis Harvey helped in net against St. Margaret’s and split a shutout with Ryan Kowarsch in a 10-0 win over Northwood on Dec. 20.
and the league is as deep as it’s been in a while.”
The Tritons have two games at Dana Hills on Thursday, Jan. 4 and at Troy on Friday, Jan. 5 before they open league play on Wednesday, Jan. 10 at home against Tesoro.
The biggest challenges to San Clemente’s league supremacy are those experienced Trabuco Hills and Aliso Niguel squads. Trabuco Hills is currently ranked fourth in CIF-SS Division 2A, and Aliso Niguel is 11th in Division 2AA.
San Clemente’s first meeting with Trabuco Hills is Friday, Jan. 12 at home, and the Tritons travel to Aliso Niguel on Wednesday, Jan. 17.
“If you drew a name out of a hat and said that team is going to win the league, I wouldn’t be surprised by it,” Popovich said. “That’s kind of where we’re at with it. I’m out of the prediction business this year, I think.”
San Clemente is coming off a productive holiday break with promising event results.
The Tritons earned a solid win over Godinez, 54-36, at the North-South Challenge on Dec. 22. Chris Kane was the game’s MVP with eight points and nine rebounds.
San Clemente followed up with a thirdplace showing at the Tustin Holiday Classic.
After defeating Buena Park, 70-61, and Compton, 53-49, the Tritons fell to Northwood in the semifinals but not without a push.
San Clemente was down by 23 points in the third quarter but rallied to cut the deficit to just four in the final minute of the game. The resiliency in that game stood out for the Tritons.
“Against Northwood, especially, after
The Tritons move immediately into South Coast League play at Mission Viejo on Wednesday, Jan. 10 and at home against San Juan Hills on Friday, Jan. 12.
While the boys soccer team’s defense has been impressive, the girls team has really set the standard.
The Tritons (11-1-3) took fi fth place at the prestigious Excalibur Tournament with three shutouts at the event. Kelsey Bland led the way in net for a San Clemente team that has 12 shutouts on the season with just five goals allowed.
San Clemente will look to make its mark on a loaded South Coast League with its league opener at Dana Hills on Tuesday, Jan. 9 and continuing at home against Aliso Niguel on Tuesday, Jan. 16.
coming out slow against them, we were able to come together and play together,” senior Jacob Nemeth said. “Everybody started to contribute in their own way. It shows that we’re not going to go down without a fight.”
Nemeth led the Tritons in scoring that day, as he has all season, but a strength for San Clemente has been a spread of strong performances.
Kane has led the big men and the Tritons’ size advantage. Anthony Smetona co-led in scoring in the Tustin Classic third-place victory. Popovich also praised Max Marshall and Spencer Egbert in providing a deep and rounded out attack.
“It shows that a team can’t just come out and face guard one player to shut down our whole offense,” Nemeth said. “We’re able to use different players all the time and teams have to respect every player on the court.”
All of this is part of San Clemente’s mantra of getting better each week, which Popovich said has been a through line in this run of league titles.
“We push each other so hard in practice,” Kane said. “We’re going to out work you. We may have a couple breaks in games, but we’re going 100 percent all of the time.”
Popovich said the key for the Tritons going forward will be offensive execution and easy baskets in transition. The coach also said this run of tournaments has prepared them for another league challenge.
“We’ve played different styles. We’ve played different teams,” Popovich said. “It’s made it so we’re not going to be surprised by anything when we get to league. The league is stacked like it always is. Every night is going to be a battle.” SC
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
Pat Gudauskas on tour and giving back to San Clemente
BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
They say that nice guys finish last. Well, that isn’t exactly true. San Clemente’s Pat Gudauskas has been grinding away on the World Surf League’s (WSL) Qualifying Series for years, and now after a lot of hard work, a little luck and some serious karma points, he’ll join the best surfers in the world on the Championship Tour in 2018.
“I guess I know what I’m doing next year,” joked Gudauskas after hearing the good news.
Sitting on the WSL’s qualification bubble at the end of last year, Gudauskas finished the season ranked 14 on the Qualifying Series, just a hair away from earning himself a spot at the big dance next year.
“It was hard to come that close and not make it again,” said Gudauskas, who served a brief stint on the world tour earlier in his career before falling off in 2013.
Then, fate interceded. In a fierce semifinal heat at the Billabong Pipe Masters, Brazilian surfer Ian Gouveia lost to 2017 world champion John John Florence. It was enough to reshuffle the WSL rankings and get Gudauskas back on tour next year.
Official word came from WSL Commissioner Kieren Perrow shortly after the heat.
BY JAKE HOWARD,
ith so much good surf news on the pro level, we’d be remiss if we forgot about the local groms who have been so dominant for the last year. With a commanding performance to cap off 2017, Kade Matson went haywire at the National Scholastic Surf Association (NSSA) contest at Seaside Reef. Held in pumping, overhead surf, Matson came away from the weekend with wins in both the Open Men’s and Open Junior’s divisions, and locked in a perfect
“Yeah, Pat! It’s official, mate, you’re on in ’18. Congrats,” Perrow said.
After falling off tour in 2013, Gudauskas has made several runs at getting back on the Championship Tour, but until just now has been unable to put all the pieces together.
Last year, a WSL headline read: “Patrick Gudauskas Doubles Down on a CT Comeback.” He finished the 2015 season ranked 29th. But this lap around the sun was different. He had a pretty successful campaign throughout the year and came into the 2017 Triple Crown of Surfing with an outside shot of making the Championship Tour.
The Hawaiian Pro at Haleiwa treated him alright, but didn’t deliver the result
10-point ride in the process.
“Wow, it was an incredible weekend; some of the best waves I’ve surfed here,” said Matson, who was subsequently named the NSSA’s Surfer of the Week.
Matson’s already had a banner year that’s seen him win national titles, GromSearch contests and just about every other amateur accolade out there, but he caught some serious fire in December. Prior to dominating the NSSA ranks, at the USA Surfing Prime event at Salt Creek he came away with wins in both the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions. Matson is definitely one of the hottest junior surfers in America today.
With local surfer Griffin Colapinto qualifying for the WSL Championship Tour at the ripe old age of 19, the way things are shaping up, could 15-year-old Matson be far behind?
he needed. As it seems to happen with Californians in Hawaii, it came down to the World Cup of Surfing at Sunset Beach. Gudauskas made heats. He made it all the way to the semifinals alongside San Clemente compadre Kolohe Andino and Santa Barbara’s Conner Coffin. Gudauskas ended the season one place away from qualifying. Then, at the Pipe Masters, the final event of the Triple Crown, Gouveia lost to Florence and Gudauskas was back on.
The timing couldn’t have been better. With the holidays and end of the year at hand, using the proceeds from their annual Stoke-O-Rama kids contest at T-Street, the Gudauskas brothers made a $10,000 donation to the San Clemente
Junior Lifeguard Foundation courtesy of their nonprofit group, the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation.
“This is a super special day for us, to be back here where it all started for us, as junior lifeguards. We’re stoked to be able to give back to the next generation of San Clemente water safety,” said Dane Gudauskas.
“We are extremely grateful to the Positive Vibe Warriors for their continued support of our local lifeguard and junior lifeguard programs,” said San Clemente Lifeguard Greg Hulsizer. “Their generosity allows us to offer programs like Junior Lifeguard scholarships and to provide our lifeguards and junior lifeguards with equipment and supplies.”
2018 looks to be a huge year for our local scene. Besides Pat Gudauskas’s passion play, rapidly rising star Griffin Colapinto also made some history in Hawaii this year. The former Grom of the Week finished first on the WSL Qualifying Series and won the prestigious Triple Crown title. Colapinto is the first California surfer to ever win the Triple Crown title. He was able to lock in a runner-up finish at the Hawaiian Pro, then went on to make the final at the World Cup of Surfing, to take a commanding lead in the Triple Crown series. He’d never look back.
“I’m feeling incredible right now and it’s the best feeling ever,” said Colapinto after finding out he’d won the Triple Crown. “I was just looking at the names that have won the Triple Crown, just all the names on there are insane and to win after John John (Florence) won last year is amazing. I’m just really excited for next year and for Snapper and I think there will be a lot of energy there and to have my name on a jersey will be special.”
This year, San Clemente will see three local surfers on the Championship Tour in Colapinto, Gudauskas and veteran Kolohe Andino. SC
Water Temperature: 59-61 degrees F
Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 5-8’ Fair
Thursday: Small WNW swell. For the better breaks look for knee-waist high (2-3’) surf with chest high (4’) sets at winter standouts. Variable to light offshore winds through the morning give way to light+ West flow through the afternoon.
Outlook: Small to modest WNW swell through the weekend, getting sets up to chest high (4’) at best. Morning winds continue to be offshore, shifting onshore for the afternoons. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.
