April 12, 2018

EYE ON SC

What’s Up With...

Five

things San Clemente should know this week

State of the City Looks at Issues

San Clemente Faces

THE LATEST: Starting off with probably the most positive video about San Clemente ever created, the State of the City on April 5 gave residents a look at what’s been accomplished and what to look forward to in the year ahead.

Mayor Tim Brown emceed the ceremony with assistance from State Sen. Patricia Bates.

WHAT’S NEXT: Some of the issues the city is currently entangled in were a bit “awkward,” Brown said, but necessary to address. The Toll Roads was a participating sponsor to the State of the City and Saddleback Memorial Medical Center’s administrator was in attendance—entities of which the city is involved in litigation with.

“We feel without these services that longer transport times will affect our citizens and the medical care they deserve and need,” Brown said on the hospital.

A decision regarding the hospital lawsuit is expected to be rendered soon, but it has been delayed as the same judge working on the county’s homelessness issues is working on the city’s hospital lawsuit.

Other issues Brown addressed were related to sober living homes and some other quality of life topics.

The full State of the City address can be found in a link in this article at www. sanclementetimes.com. —Eric Heinz

Wheeler North Reef

Fails Again to Meet Mitigation Standards

THE LATEST: During a 2017 performance review meeting held at the Ocean Institute on April 9, it was revealed that Wheeler North Reef—the artificial low-relief reef constructed in 2009 close to a mile off of the shores of San Clemente in order to mitigate damages to the San Onofre kelp forest from discharge from the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS)— failed to meet requirements for mitigation credit for the ninth consecutive year.

Dan Reed, a research biologist from the University of California-Santa Barbara (UCSB) Marine Science Institute (MSI), the group contracted by Southern California Edison to monitor the reef’s mitigation performance, explained that performance standards are split into two categories: absolute and relative standards. The 174-acre reef, monitored by 92 transect points along the reef, must meet all absolute standards and as many relative standards as the lowest performing reference reef in a given reef. The most accurate reefs used for comparison are San Mateo and Barn reefs. Concerning giant kelp growth standards, Reed explained that Wheeler North did not meet absolute standards of 150 acres of adequate kelp density cover-

age. In 2017, only 72 of the necessary 80 transects needed to meet the 150-acre standard were met.

Kate Huckelbridge, a senior environmental scientist for the California Coastal Commission (CCC), explained that fish standing stock failed to reach its absolute standard of 25 tons, only achieving 18 tons.

WHAT’S NEXT: Reed explained that due to the number of juvenile giant kelp in areas failing to meet requirements, he is forecasting that kelp standards are not expected to meet standards for mitigation either.

Plans to expand the reef to as much as double its current size to encourage successful remediation by extending north toward Dana Point could begin as early as summer 2019. To learn more about the Wheeler North Reef project, visit www.marinemitigation.msi.ucsb.edu. —Daniel Ritz

Reel Talk: 10-Screen Outlets Movie Theater Nearly Green-Lit for 2019 Opening

THE LATEST: The Outlets at San Clemente announced on April 9 that it will open a Metropolitan Theatres cinema in 2019.

The movie theater was part of a planned design for the Outlets that was approved by the city years ago.

“The 45,000-square-foot luxury cinema will feature 10 auditoriums, including a 60foot premium large format (PLF) screen,” according to a press release from the Outlets. “The theater will offer a full-service restaurant and bar providing movie-goers dining options before and after the film, as well as in-auditorium service. Operated by Metropolitan Theatres, the all-digital experience will feature leading-edge technology and reserved luxury recliner seating.”

Steve Craig, the CEO of Craig Realty Group and owner of the Outlets at San Clemente, said the size of the theaters will vary; some will have anywhere between 40 and 50 seats while the larger theaters will have 150 to 175 seats. People will be able to reserve tickets days to weeks in advance.

WHAT’S NEXT: The Outlets press release also stated new businesses that will be opening in the future include Rockwell’s Cafe & Bakery later this month and Kevin Jewelers sometime this spring. The first of four “ocean-view” restaurants is expected to be announced soon, the press release stated. —EH

City Hall Moves to Negocio Location

THE LATEST: On April 5, the city of San Clemente announced that City Hall is now

located at 910 Calle Negocio, the same offices where the Public Works and Community Development Departments have been operating for more than a decade.

“All services previously provided at the former City Hall site, 100 Avenida Presidio, have officially moved to the new City Hall site at 910 Calle Negocio,” the release stated. “These services include city manager’s office, city clerk, utility billing, human resources, and finance and administrative services. The city has also installed a new drive-thru utility billing drop box at 910 Calle Negocio to receive payments. This consolidation of public services will benefit the community and the residents it serves.”

“Now that all city services are under one roof, we can work more closely together in a collaborative environment that translates into providing better city services to our customers, the residents and local businesses,” City Manager James Makshanoff stated in a press release.

WHAT’S NEXT: City Council meetings will continue to be held at the Council Chambers, located at 100 Avenida Presidio. The San Clemente Police Services substation will remain at 100 Avenida Presidio. More information and hours of services can be found at www.san-clemente.org. —Staff

Federal Judge Allows Miramar to Remain with Current Owners

THE LATEST: The owners of the Miramar Event Center announced on April 10 that a federal judge has dismissed the case against them and has dropped an order to cease all work that can be done on the building.

In February, a federal lawsuit disputing the clear title of the theater was filed on behalf of Craig Baptiste and Mach-1 Autogroup of San Clemente. His brother, Barry Baptiste, made the same challenge in 2013.

The lawsuits began after partnership among the current owners, El Camino Real Estate Holdings LLC, which includes front man Marc Spizzirri, and the litigants went sour about 10 years ago. As part of a bankruptcy settlement, the owners of Mach-1 deemed that the theater should be in their possession.

“The court announced that it will issue a written order, which has not yet been received,” a press release from El Camino Real Estate Holdings stated.

WHAT’S NEXT: There is an appellate period of about 20 or 30 days, Spizzirri said, should Mach-1’s owners decide to further challenge the matter. But work is now allowed to continue on the theater and adjacent bowling alley, which have sat vacant since at least 1992. —EH

The Humane Condition Homelessness issues

across Orange County reach boiling point

BY ERIC HEINZ, EMILY RASMUSSEN AND DANIEL RITZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

On a recent sunny afternoon in San Juan Capistrano, an Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) deputy slowly drove along San Juan Creek in search of homeless camps.

Less than two minutes into the first stretch of daily rounds along San Juan Creek for Deputy Chandler Pierce’s day, a middle-aged woman flagged him down along the trail. The woman, a San Juan Capistrano resident who lives nearby, approached the squad car and expressed concerns of a few tents at the base of the creek, which is near an elementary school. Pierce told her he was already on his way to check it out.

Pierce drove a few more feet along the creek, surveying the creek and quickly spotting a small cluster of tents. Three people identified themselves, two were homeless: a woman from Laguna Niguel in her early 20s, a middle-aged man who said he’s “from around town,” and a San Juan Capistrano resident who said he’s a friend of the pair and brings them food and supplies, but he won’t house them.

Pierce asked the group why they were there, if they have a record, if they needed help and what they need. After the group denied assistance, Pierce let out a sigh, got back into his squad car and conveyed his frustrations of day-to-day irritations that come with being the city’s dedicated homeless liaison officer.

“A lot of people think cops are the ones criminalizing the homeless. As a homeless liaison officer, and every city pretty much has one or multiple, we’re always trying to just help people get off the street,” Pierce said. After checking the river bed, Pierce drove through San Juan Capistrano to the usual spots looking for other homeless people, in alleyways, parks and shopping centers. When he approached another group of local homeless people, many of whom Pierce sees and talks to daily, there was a fine line of firmness and gentleness he had to walk.

Pierce estimates that of the 15-or-so homeless people in San Juan Capistrano, about 10 are homegrown. One person who Piece sees regularly is a sixth-generation San Juan Capistrano man, who typically stays at a local park.

The soft-spoken, middle-aged homeless man, who asked to not be named, admitted that if he wanted services, he could get them, but he has no desire to because it’s

homeless

San Clemente for six months. He said

easy to buy and use drugs living on the streets. He said he’s fairly comfortable in the park. Family members will come by to visit; his belongings include small furniture items and even a pair of wine glasses.

Pierce said the irony from the general public when it comes to the homeless issue is that they don’t want people to be homeless, especially here, but they’re willing to give out free food and clothing.

There’s a lot of theories floating around California’s growing homeless population of more than 134,000 people, with a nearly 14 percent increase from 2016 to 2017, a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development report found. Some theories to the growing homeless population range from affordable housing and renters rights, to low wages and drugs.

Pierce said he blames California Proposition 47, the Reduced Penalties for Some Crimes Initiative, which passed in 2014 and changed many drug-related crimes from felonies to misdemeanors.

“We took addicts, without getting them help, and pushed them to the street,” Pierce said. “They’re just going to resort back to becoming an addict again. Now all we do is ticket away (for drug misdemeanors) and they just go get (more drugs) again. It’s a revolving cycle. They just continually do drugs over and over.”

Harry Bradford, 63, spends his days near the train station in downtown San Juan Capistrano. Bradford is homeless

and came to Southern California for a job opportunity eight years ago, moving from a small town in Kansas after work “dried up” in the oil industry.

“There’s nowhere else to go. It’s just a sunny place to read,” Bradford said, holding a copy of The Chamber, a legal thriller novel by author John Grisham. “I try to keep away from people who do drugs. Around here (by the train tracks) it’s kind of quiet.”

Bradford said he’s not one to use drugs, but he feels discouraged in finding work and housing because he’s applied to jobs across town and the surrounding area, but he hasn’t had any luck.

“I don’t know what to do. I’m overeducated or just too old.”

How we got here, where we’re going Discussions related to homeless people in Orange County have been at a fever pitch.

A lawsuit filed by Orange County Catholic Worker earlier this year alleges the county had not performed due diligence in providing shelter for homeless people after trying to expel them from the Santa Ana riverbed.

The climax of the issues came on Feb. 14, after the county pursued to have all homeless people vacated from the Santa Ana riverbed and, in response, federal judge David O. Carter issued a restraining order on local officials and mandated that

the homeless be placed into temporary housing situations. That came in the form of hotel and motel vouchers that were valid for a minimum 30-day stay. Since the vouchers expired, the county and cities within its borders have been trying to develop a strategy to place them.

Many of the some-700 people who were living in the riverbed were sent to behavioral health treatment programs and other services, while about 400 of them were not scheduled for services.

Carter hosted several hearings following the expiration of the vouchers, including one where he ordered all the mayors of the county’s cities to come together at a meeting in April to figure out what can be done.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors voted to place shelters in Laguna Niguel, Irvine and Huntington Beach, but backtracked on that idea in late March after they received backlash from the public. The county’s shelters include armories in Santa Ana and Fullerton that hold about 400 people, a shelter in the Santa Ana Courtyard that holds another 400 and the final shelter, the Bridges at Kraemer Place, will hold 100 when it is finished.

Officials with Orange County Health Care Agency and Office of Care Coordination have continued to provide assessments to the homeless people with whom they’ve kept contact.

(Cont. on page

In San Clemente, Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) has several shelters for victims of domestic violence and families who were either homeless or on the brink of becoming so, but they don’t operate an emergency shelter that accepts anyone.

FAM also conducts assessments within San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano in order to send people either to the appropriate services or into adequate housing. Friendship Shelter in Laguna Beach holds 160 each night.

An adage that has become more frequent in recent weeks, “It’s not illegal to be homeless,” may be true, but San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano have laws that make staying in one place difficult.

All three cities have laws that prohibit camping or setting up tents on public land, sleeping in a car overnight, and public parks typically are closed from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. or midnight-4 a.m. or some other variation.

San Clemente went even further in recent months to adopt laws that give private property owners the leverage to have people removed without reason at local businesses and in the canyons, which people fear could be in danger of catching fire during dry months due to people using propane tanks to cook food.

In San Juan Capistrano, a fire did break out in San Juan Creek a few months ago from a homeless person cooking food, Pierce said.

The San Clemente laws also allow for property owners to have people removed if they panhandle.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors recently voted to spend $70.5 million of Mental Health Services Act funds to provide assistance in placing homeless people in permanent housing. What that will look like remains to be seen.

Susan Price, the director of the Orange County Care Coordination, referred to a lawsuit in Los Angeles in 2006 in which the judge decided as long as laws are made to address homelessness, adequate housing for them must be provided.

“We need regional participation among cities, cities that aren’t always full-service, to create a system outflow to some kind of emergency sheltering and prioritization of permanent housing, like what we did with the flood control (Santa Ana riverbed),” Price said.

Of the estimated 2,500 people who were unsheltered homeless, Price said the county has put at least half that many people into temporary sheltering and programs to help them in 2018.

Homelessness in Dana Point

In Dana Point, the city has drafted a community work plan to explicitly address homelessness through its Homeless Task Force (HTF), made up of more than a dozen local stakeholder representatives. Recognizing that homelessness had become a critical focus for Dana Point

Homelessness Information

According to the 2017 Point in Time count that tracks the population of homeless people, San Clemente had a consistent population of about 70 homeless people. San Clemente was designated as one of the deployment centers, but city officials said that number can fluctuate.

Countywide, the Point in Time count found a 7.6 percent increase of homeless people between 2013 and 2017, of which 2,584 were sheltered and 2,208 were unsheltered.

If you know of someone who is homeless or is in danger of becoming homeless and is seeking assistance, contact Orange County 2-1-1 and visit www.211oc.org, or Family Assistance Ministries at 949.492.8477 and visit www.family-assistance.org.

More information related to the homeless populations in Orange County can be found at www.ocgov. com/gov/ceo/care.

community members as well as many communities across the nation, the work plan is intended to officially describe the city of Dana Point’s activities and partners who will work together to eliminate, as the community work plan reads, “the necessity of homelessness in the Dana Point regional area.”

The four groups of stakeholders are defined as government, faith-based communities, nonprofit organizations and businesses.

For example, the plan works through Dana Point Police Services’ abilities and policies for public awareness and path toward removal of the daily “feed,” at Doheny State Beach by nonprofit Welcome Inn after the establishment of a new Saturday Engagement Program.

The community work plan defines four desired outcomes concerning homelessness in Dana Point: that homelessness in Dana Point is reduced, Dana Point’s public spaces are welcoming and safe for residents and visitors, Dana Point’s residents and businesses are well-informed of homeless issues and participate in a solution, and homeless residents stay safe, healthy and law-abiding while awaiting housing or readiness to accept services.

These measures are intended to provide insight on the progress made on homelessness. The data and information gathered from the measures will be used to reassess and improve the city’s response to homelessness. The city’s goal is to track how its homeless population is changing and adjust a response accordingly. Currently, the plan is in a mandatory 30-day, public-comment period, and awaiting final approval from City Council. The community work plan draft document can be read in this article at www.sanclementetimes.com. SC

Community Meetings

THURSDAY APRIL 12

COASTAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

7 p.m. The Committee will hear a presentation about the Wheeler North Reef Kelp Expansion project, planned to extend north of the San Clemente Pier. Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville. 949.361.8204. www.san-clemente.org.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

DEL MAR FARMERS’ MARKET

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

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

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.

SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS

6 p.m. The San Clemente City Council will conduct its regularly scheduled meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org.

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING

6:30-8:30 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, APRIL 18

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, Suite 126. 949.366.5423. www. sanclementekiwanis.com.

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.

NEWS BITES

COMPILED BY STAFF

Middle School Students Head to California Day State Contest

Shorecliffs Middle School will be wellrepresented at the 2018 California History Day contest held annually at William Jessup University in Rocklin. These students have successfully progressed from the local school competition to the Orange County competition, and now are moving onto the state level of the competition in May. The students from Shorecliffs are Kula-Mae Brunson, Savannah Batchelor, Juliette Gregath, Talie Folsom, Ian McKernan, Zane Pert, Magnus Oxford and Jack Priddy.

Turquoise Miner, Jeweler to Speak at SOCGEMS Meeting

On April 18, Eric Brooking will lead the discussion called, “Turquoise, A Vanishing American Treasure,” at 7:15 p.m. at the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 N. Calle Seville, as part of the monthly speaker series presented by South Orange County Gem and Mineral Society (SOCGEMS).

Brooking began mining at an early age when his father leased a tourmaline mine in the early 1970s. They discovered fire agate, and today, he and a partner have a turquoise mine in Nevada from which he sells stones and makes jewelry from American turquoise.

Brooking explained in a recent interview that American-mined turquoise is highly desirable and is a uniquely American stone.

SOCGEMS members are invited to field trips, special auctions, classes in lapidary, Junior Rock hound activities and more.

For more information, visit www.socgems.com to receive information on upcoming programs.

City Joins National Challenge to be Most ‘Water-Wise’

The Seventh National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation Runs from April 1-30.

Tim Brown, mayor of San Clemente, and San Clemente City Council are joining mayors across the country in asking residents to commit to managing their water resources more wisely by taking part in the annual Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation.

In return, residents can win $5,000 toward their home utilities payments, water saving fixtures, and hundreds of other prizes.

To participate, residents must enter online at www.mywaterpledge.com and

make a series of online pledges to conserve water on behalf of San Clemente, which is competing within its population category of 30,000-99,999 residents. Cities with the highest percentage of residents who take the challenge in their population category will have their participants entered into drawings for hundreds of eco-friendly prizes, including home improvement gift cards, home irrigation equipment, and the grand prize of $5,000 home utility bill payment. The challenge also gives residents an opportunity to nominate a deserving charity to win a 2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and features additional resources for residents to take their commitment of conservation even further, from information on regional water and energy resource issues, to costsaving tips for the home.

SCARWF 2018 Scholarships

The San Clemente Area Republican Women Federated (SCARWF) is awarding scholarships to high school seniors who attend San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, Capistrano Beach or Camp Pendleton. Scholarships range from $1,000 to $3,000. Applicants must be a United States citizen and a registered Republican, or intend to register, if not 18 years old. The deadline for applications is May 1 and all of the information pertaining to the scholarship can be obtained on the SCARWF website at www.scarw.org. For questions, call or text Donna Huff at 714.624.2411 or email donnabythesea@gmail.com.

Domestic Violence Teen Summit to be Held on April 21

The Wellness & Prevention Coalition in partnership with San Clemente Domestic Violence Task Force is hosting a Teen Summit from 9 a.m.-noon on Saturday, April 21 at the VIP room at the Outlets at San Clemente. This is a youth-driven summit in which professionals are invited to a discus-

sion regarding concerns of the youth in the community. Zoe Day, a senior at San Clemente High School is the event chair.

Topics for the event will include mental health, attendance at school, sexual misconduct, sex education, activism in school and bullying. Professionals invited include Lt. Mike Peters, San Clemente police chief; Christina Kampczyk, juvenile probation department and alternatives to incarceration for juveniles; Annie Carney, on activism in schools; and Mr. Dewald, a San Clemente High School teacher.

AAUW to Host Artists at Sea Pointe Estates on April 22

Enjoy a spring afternoon with American Association of University Women (AAUW) as they host artists, composers and writers on Sunday, April 22. Sip a glass of wine and munch tasty appetizers while strolling through an art display listening to classical guitar and a local author reading from her book.

The artists include: David Adele, a classical guitarist who holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in music from California State University, Fullerton; Jasmine Wei, a Laguna Beach-based illustrator who obtained her bachelor’s degree in illustration from Laguna College of Art and Design (LCAD); Katy Tackes will be reading from her moving book, Each Time She Wakes, as well as displaying her art; and artist Shida Rad will display her lifetime love of art through her Chinese brush-painting techniques.

The event takes place from 3-5 p.m. at Sea Pointe Estates Clubhouse in San Clemente, located at 1030 Calle Negocio. Cost of the event is $35 per person and there will be limited space. For information on where to send a check, go to www. sccb-ca.aauw.net/general-meeting/ or send email inquiries to aauw.sccb@cox.net.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com by Monday the week of publication.

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San Clemente Times Vol. 13, Issue 15. 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: View from the Pier by Herman

Sillas

A Generation’s Voice Rings Out as Gun Debate Crescendos

In 1965, I was an attorney for MexicanAmerican teachers in Los Angeles. Their students were mostly Mexican-Americans who called themselves “Chicanos.” They had a high drop-out rate. Teacher Sal Castro began working with them and the Chicano students submitted a list of items to the school’s board that they wanted for their respective schools. Their letter was not responded to by the board. The frustrated students decided they, along with Castro, would walk out of school for three days. On March 6, 7 and 8, 1968, the Chicano students and Castro walked out of five East Los Angeles schools into the streets. The press followed the students. Police clubbed the students, but for three days the Chicanos walked out. The children’s parents confronted the school board and demanded the representatives address the needs of the students. Afterward, the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office brought a felony indictment against Castro and 13 other defendants. I represented Castro in this action. The appellate court dismissed the indictment as being unconstitutional and released the defendants. It was a great day for the students.

Letters to the Editor

SENSIBLE GUN-LAW REFORM WILL CURB SHOOTINGS

SANDRA WEAVER, San Clemente

To people who want to fight for less restrictive gun laws: I know you feel as saddened as we all do over these unnecessary killings. But the fact remains that many of the killings were done by gun owners who should not have had the opportunity to purchase them. And they were done with weapons designed to kill many people.

A letter in the March 29-April 4 edition of the San Clemente Times uses historical references to past horrific killings of innocent people. The letter asserts that disarming the citizens was the first thing

I recently attended a gathering of those students participating in a walkout a couple weeks ago in Los Angeles—50 years later. Many spoke of their experiences and their commitment to getting a good education. They spoke with passion and gave reasons for their three-day walkout. They said walking out of school was the only way they could get the attention of the board. This generation of students had found their goal and were committed to achieving it. They walked out of school because it was the only way their generation could get an education.

On Feb. 14, 2018 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, 17 people—teachers and students—were killed by a student who was armed with automatic-firing guns. He walked off the campus and was subsequently arrested and is now in jail awaiting trial. The students at the Florida school mourned the death of their 17 classmates. But they did more than mourn them; they wanted to know how this happened. What would stop this from ever happening again? What could they do?

At their press conference the following day, the Florida students stated that their school must be free from any such gun activity in the future. The students spoke about the sale of automatic weapons. They announced to the gun industry that they intended to advise each public office holder that they cannot receive money from gun manufacturers while still relying on the support of the public.

At San Clemente High School and other neighboring schools on March 18, students walked out of their classes to honor

these despotic governments did and suggests that they would have liked the right to bear arms.

We are not advocating disarming people. We want to eliminate these unnecessary weapons and require more thorough background checks for gun owners. If you just want protection against your government, should it become tyrannical, purchase your gun and lock it up in hopes you will never have to use it.

Another letter used statistics of causes of death in 2015 for 15-19-year-olds. They are accidents, drug overdoses, suicide, cancer, heart disease and birth defects totaling 6,869 deaths.

None of these are premeditated murder, many are the result of wrong choices or disease.

The letter goes on to state the number of non-gang, non-suicide fatalities in school shootings nationwide (K-12) averages about 15 per year and has been declin-

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, April 13 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso

Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by

are welcome.

the victims who were killed in Florida and to advocate for stricter gun laws, to which some students counter protested. On March 24, millions of students and families gathered in Washington, D.C. and major cities throughout this country. Their message was simple; if you run for office, don’t take money from gun manufacturers or we will defeat you at the election.

This issue isn’t going away. In 1965, I saw what happens when a generation of students make an issue their issue. When a student generation adopts a platform, it stays with that generation for life. They will not let it go. Seventeen minors killed by one person in six minutes is too much to accept. This young generation has its goal. They know that publicly elected officials traditionally get money from gun makers. If they do this in the future, this young generation is committed to defeating those office candidates. It lasts forever. That’s the view from the Pier.

Herman Sillas is a former director of California’s DMV and a former U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of California. He may be reached at sillasla@aol.com. SC

ing. The argument made is that there are approximately 51 million K-12 students in the U.S., and therefore, a student’s chance of being killed in a non-gang, non-suicide school shooting in any given year is about 1 in 3.4 million.

Guns are the common denominator in these school shootings. It just seems to me that in the opinion of avid gun lovers, their right to own any kind of gun trumps the safety of our kids.

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.

GETTING OUT SC

SanClemente

SanClemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

EDITOR’S PICK

SATURDAY, APRIL 14: EIGHTH ANNUAL SAN CLEMENTE MICRO-BREW FESTIVAL

Noon-5 p.m. The San Clemente Micro-Brew Fest, hosted by Left Coast Brewing Co., will feature micro-brews from all over Southern California, including Oggis Sports Brewhouse Pizza, The Bruery and Four Sons Brewing Co. Popular food trucks such as Brew Wings will be available, and local bands The Kalama Brothers and Special Blend will play throughout the day. Each year, the San Clemente Micro-Brew Fest raises money to benefit the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s “Welcome Home Military Family Events.” The event in total has raised roughly $90,000. The event opens at noon to VIP ticketholders and 1 p.m. for general admission. Tickets are $50 for VIP, $40 for general admission and $45 at the door. Admission includes 12, 4-ounce micro-brew samples. Left Coast Brewing Co., 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.492-1131. www.scchamber.com.

The List

What’s going on in and around town

COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO

Thursday | 12

GOIN NATIVE THERAPEUTIC GARDENS GARDEN ANGELS

8:30-10:30 a.m. Join volunteers, students and teachers at Goin Native Therapeutic Gardens to care for and maintain native plants and butterflies. No class if it rains. Los Rios Park. 31790 Paseo Adelanto, San Juan Capistrano. www.goinnative.net.

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.

Friday | 13

GOT TALENT

6-10 p.m. The San Clemente Sunrise Rotary is presenting their talent competition for all ages with food from local restaurants and a silent auction. Both solo and group acts are welcome to perform anything from singing, dancing, comedy or magic. Admission is $55-$75. Money raised will support local children’s programs and youth groups. Tickets are available on www.eventbrite.com. 140 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.369.6226. www.scsunriserotary.org.

BAHA’I MONTHLY

MULTI-FAITH DEVOTIONS

7:30-9 p.m. Bring a prayer or reading from whatever spiritual belief you hold. A musical instrument, a song to share or something purely from the heart. 17 Calle de la Luna, San Clemente. 949.218.8284.

LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S

7 p.m. Iva Lee’s hosts music every Wednesday through Sunday. Be sure to reserve a lounge table on Fridays and Saturdays. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. www.ivalees.com.

(Cont. on page 23)

Earth Day is April 22! Check out our Earth Day events page for a list of local beach cleanups.

WELCOME | THE GREEN ISSUE

Green a

As global warming and sea levels continue to rise, the focus on individual environmental impacts is more important than ever. Low-cost steps and new habits can be formed to make a positive change in the long-term, including extreme water conservation efforts even though the state drought has been lifted. In this year’s Green Issue, we’ve included articles that will educate and empower you and your family to make lifestyle changes and improve our local communities in South Orange County. If you need motivation, look no further than the youth initiatives of Team Zissou and more as this generation reinvigorates what it means to create an advocacy movement. Learn how to reduce your carbon footprint with

easy-to-implement changes in your own home such as installing energy efficient light bulbs, planting trees for shade or drought-resistant plants, creating your own cleaning supplies and ridding your home of plastic. Extend this education to water conservation too with installing aerators on faucets, replacing outdated showerheads or toilets and purchasing a reusable water bottle. Our local city governments have joined the eco-friendly race too with ongoing initiatives that will be completed throughout the year. If this year’s super bloom of wildflowers throughout Orange County hasn’t made you wonder at the natural world, we hope the stories in this Green Issue inspire you to take every step you can to keep our tiny spot in the universe beautiful.

RESPONSIBLE RECYCLING

Reduce waste, dispose of large items in an eco-friendly way

EBY RACHAEL MATTICE

veryday lifestyle choices may not seem to have much of an impact on others or the environment, but even personal decisions such as where to dispose of large furniture items, electronics or biodegradable compost can have long-term consequences on our natural surroundings.

Putting in the extra effort to rid your home and life of these items responsibly can hold a lot of weight. Here are a few call-to-eco-actions.

Dispose: South Orange County customers of CR&R Environmental Services are entitled to four bulky item pick-ups—such as a chair, couch or old refrigerator—free of charge per calendar year. ontact the local office to ma e arrangements for pick-ups at www.crrwasteservices.com/ contact-us. The city of Dana Point also has tri-annual bulky drop-off days at Dana Hills High School. Visit www.danapoint. org for the 2018 dates.

Take any hazardous waste to a site such as Prima Descheca andfill, located at 50 a ata ve., San uan Capistrano.

Reuse: Bring your own bag to the grocery store and repurpose any plastic bags. Don’t forget that plastic bags now cost 10 cents at local stores.

Compost: Green/organics carts are available from CR&R to discard of any organic materials such as yard clippings or old food items like fruits, bread, meats and dairy. Visit www.san-clemente.org for more information.

Read the Labels: Purchase products made, or packaged, with recycled materials such as paper plates, beverage cartons, office supplies and even clothing.

Check out www.calrecycle.ca.gov for more responsible recycling tips.

10 IDEAS FOR

Green Savings

At-home tips to save the environment and your finances

BY STAFF

If you’re an environmental advocate taking steps to reduce your greenhouse gas footprint, one common complaint you might hear is that it’s too expensive to go green. Solar panels, local produce, electric cars, organic pesticides—they may help the environment, but they can also hurt finances. Though it’s true some of those endeavors may incur an upfront cost, they can also save you money in the long run by cutting down on energy and gas bills, trips to the doctor and yet another tub of RoundUp. In short, there’s a common theme when it comes to being green that an upfront investment yields long-term returns. Here are tips you can take to lower your bills and your eco-footprint.

1 / Natural cooling

Set the thermostat to 78 degrees or turn off the air conditioning during hot summer days. Using fans and pulling down the shades during the day can also keep homes and office buildings cool during the height of extreme heat. Southern California Edison customers are no strangers to flex alerts, or when power use outstrips electricity supply and other challenging grid conditions during heat waves. Shut off appliances during the day: In addition to increasing the temperature on the thermostat, running other major home appliances before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m. is a commonplace practice to avoid flex alerts and high-cost energy bills. Insulating your home properly will also keep rooms cool during summer and warm during the winter. Unplug chargers and power strips as well. This may be a penny-pincher habit, but you’ll be surprised at the long-term savings.

2

/ Plant Shade Trees

It’s one of the first (and only) environmental lessons we learn in school: Planting trees is healthy for the world. Trees also help consumers by reducing energy bills in hot months. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, planting large trees on the east, west and northwest sides of your property can reduce summer air conditioning costs by 35 percent.

3

/ Lighting

Switch out old light bulbs with energy efficient ones and always turn off lamps when able. Opting for natural light versus fluorescent or artificial light is a healthy and cost-saving alternative. If you left

an incandescent bulb on for 24 hours a day, it would cost you about $137 in energy bills, according to the Alliance to Save Energy. Those eco-friendly high efficiency bulbs cost about $40 annually. The average house has 45 light bulbs. Just switching from incandescent to efficiency bulbs would cut your lighting bill by two-thirds.

4 / Appliances

Invest in energy-efficient appliances such as dishwashers, washers and dryers, aerators and more. Washing clothes in cool water as well as washing full loads of clothing will also cut costs. Powering down computers, televisions and game consoles are also recommended. Save the energy from microwaving or using the oven and heat up dinners on the grill. Visit www.sdge.com to view available rebates.

5 / Reusable Water Bottle

According to the EPA, bottled water is 600 times more expensive than tap water. If you bought a $1.50 bottle of water every day for a year ($547.50), that same amount out of the tap would cost less than a dime. Never mind the fact that making bottles uses 17 million barrels of oil annually, and Americans only end up recycling about 25 percent of water bottles. Ditch them and buy yourself a reusable bottle.

6 / Buy Second-Hand, Borrow or Just Don’t Buy

One of the easiest ways it pays to go green is by limiting your spending on new stuff. Buying consignment furniture or clothes repurposes items destined for the landfill. Borrowing everything from books to bikes reduces production of those items. And cutting out non-essen-

not in use equals savings.

tial items reduces your contribution to the landfill and saves you some money.

7 / Make Your Own Cleaning Supplies

Not only can making cleaning supplies out of natural ingredients prevent toxins from entering your home and the environment, but you can save a buck too. Vinegar and baking soda, mixed into spray bottles, can clean just about anything in your home and reduce the need to buy toxic cleaners that literally just go down the drain.

8 / Prescription Disposals

Prevent chemicals found in unwanted medicines—both prescription and overthe-counter—from entering the waste stream. Instead of flushing unused or expired medications or throwing them in the garbage, dispose of them safely, anonymously and free of charge at the medication drop box at Dana Point Police Services, City Hall, 33282 Golden Lantern. No appointment necessary. San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano also periodically hold drug take-back days.

9 / Farm to Table

Grow at least a portion of your own food. A big yard is not necessary. Many vegetables and fruits thrive in small containers.

10 / Cloth Napkins

Homegrown

Replacing paper napkins with reusable and washable cloth napkins will save money and reduce trash output. Besides, they can be decorative and part of your place settings. Rid your kitchen drawers of other unnecessary plastics such as straws too.

WATER-SAVING TIPS IN THE KITCHEN

DRINKING WATER: eep a container with drinking water in the refrigerator so the faucet doesn’t have to be left on until the water is cold enough to drink.

DISHWASHERS: Invest in energy efficient dishwashers. ccording to Home Water Works, dishwashers such as EnergySTAR use less than 5.5 gallons of water per load and are more economical than washing dishes by hand.

FAUCET AERATORS: Installing a new aerator that reduces the water flow rate in the kitchen below 2.2 gallons per minute is a lot easier than you would imagine. This is especially helpful for those who don’t have a dishwasher.

• General Faucet Usage: Whether it’s brushing your teeth, washing your face, dishes or clothing, turn the faucet off and run the water only when it’s necessary.

CONSERVATION

STATE OF MIND

The drought may be lifted, but these watersaving tips can ensure long-term solutions

BY RACHAEL MATTICE

Although emergency water usage regulations issued by Gov. Jerry Brown in recent years have been lifted, the California State Water Resources Control Board is still seeking to enact modified regulations to prohibit certain wasteful water use practices across the state. The drought scare is still prominent in many Californians’ minds and coming up with more long-term solutions has become a priority to ma e water conservation a regular habit and way of life.

According to Save Our Water, a statewide conservation program, the average Californian uses 196 gallons of water each day. Get in the conservation state of mind with these at-home water saving ideas.

IN THE BATHROOM

SHOWERS: Californians are fortunate that they won’t have to freeze too long while waiting for the water to heat up, but regardless of the length of time it takes, collecting the cold water in a bucket and repurposing it for plants or garden usage is an easy fix. In addition, reducing shower time overall to five minutes saves at least 12.5 gallons of water, according to Save Our Water.

• Showerheads: Ta ing it a step further, loo into replacing your showerhead with a aterSense-labeled product, which reduces the amount of gallons of water used per minute to two.

BATHTUBS: If you wor a laborheavy job where taking warm baths is a God-send to your weekly health routine, eliminating baths may not be a realistic option. Try filling the bathtub halfway or less to save 1 gallons per bath.

TOILETS: epairing old, lea ing or running toilets in average single-family homes is a must. Newer WaterSenselabeled toilets use 1. gallons or less per flush and are designed to remove waste

more efficiently. onsider an upgrade if your toilet was manufactured before 1995.

IN THE LAUNDRY ROOM

LAUNDRY: uch li e other appliances in the household, newer economical versions of washers and dryers are available to maximi e energy efficiency. If purchasing new models isn’t in your budget anytime soon, running full loads of laundry and using the recommended amount of detergent to not over-suds your clothes are simple best practices that will save on water.

IN THE YARD

PLANTS: eplace your yard with drought-resistant plants and trees such as succulents. This step will save between 0-60 gallons of water per 1,000-square feet, according to Save Our Water.

DRIP IRRIGATION: Although installation costs may seem pricy upfront, this solution will yield long-term savings. Add-

ing a smart controller to the drip irrigation system will save some 24 gallons of water per day.

LAWN MOWER: Setting the mower blades to inches encourages deeper roots and saves between 16-50 gallons of water per day.

MULCH: Use it frequently. Mulch preserves between 0- 0 gallons per 1,000-square feet each time you water.

NO-MOW GRASS: No-mow grasses like Korean velvet grass, dwarf mondo grass, sedge and clover can be expensive, but the substantial reduction in watering needed is next to none.

OTHER OUTDOOR TIPS: Check your sprin ler heads for misalignments, chec for bro en pipes or lea s and other irrigation system issues monthly. Resetting timers four times per year for seasonal changes, as well as turning off systems during heavy rains, is also recommended.

Not sure where your home lies in energy efficiency? See how yours compares and loo into other water preservation tips for your home at www.home-water-works. org/calculator.

The cities of San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente and Dana Point have quite a few things in store for 2018 in regards to going green.

With initiatives and programs ranging from a wetlands project to food waste recycling, there are many ways that South Orange County cities are tackling environmentalism.

San Juan Capistrano

There is a variety of environmental initiatives in the works for San Juan Capistrano, including the partnership with the Ecology Center to bring gardens and an agricultural center to the community; a project to bring recycled water and sanitary sewer facilities to the Riding Park at the southwest corner of La Pata and Ortega Highway; a citywide conversion to LED street lights; and construction of a modular wetlands systems.

Expected to be completed this spring, the citywide LED street light conversion will replace 1,200 street lights and save the city some $100,000 per year, San Juan Capistrano Assistant City Manager Jacob Green said. The new lights will also use 60 percent less electricity than the current fixtures, which will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, he said.

“Moreover, LED lights create a better lit environment for the roadway, creating a more even distribution of light, reducing contrast and increasing overall visibility while improving color rendering,” Green said.

The modular wetlands systems construction will be at two locations near Interstate 5 on and off ramps at Camino Capistrano and Del Obispo Street, north of Forster Lane. These construction improvements are to meet requirements of the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System for storm water runoff require-

TWENTY-EIGHTEEN

South Orange County cities push toward green growth

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN

ments for freeway construction. The wetlands systems are made of bio-filtration units that treat storm water runoff by passing the storm water through a two-stage treatment process. The first stage, or pretreatment, removes larger material and debris from the storm water by passing through a screen. The second stage passes the pretreated runoff into a media filtration chamber which separates tiny impurities contained in storm water, which could contain total suspended solids and hydrocarbons. The project is slated to start in early May.

To learn more about San Juan Capistrano’s environmental programs, visit www.sanjuancapistrano.org/Departments/Utilities.

San Clemente

Two environmental campaigns are taking priority in San Clemente, said Cynthia Mallet, environmental programs supervisor for the city.

The recently introduced food waste recycling program is to help reduce food waste and to reuse food that would typically go to the garbage disposal or trash and landfills.

“Residents can now place their food waste—vegetable trimmings, leftover foods, coffee grounds, filters into their green waste cart, the same cart for their

landscape trimmings,” Mallet said.

From the green waste cart, an anaerobic digester processes the food and landscape trimmings to make them reusable.

“It takes all of that organic material and breaks it down, turns it into compost in a short period of time,” Mallet said.

Any customer of CR&R Environmental Services is able to get two free bags of compost per year at the city’s compost giveaway in November. People can drive up, hand them the coupon from the trash fill and load two bags into their vehicle.

The second campaign related to ocean water pollution prevention is about avoiding irrigation runoff, in which the city of San Clemente is encouraging its residents to have in-ground irrigation systems.

“Many times the (above ground) irrigation systems come on in the middle of the night when people are asleep and don’t necessarily see if it’s spraying on their sidewalks, or if the timing is too long,” Mallet said.

Too much runoff can lead the water from going straight into the curb and gutter, in addition to putting fertilizers and trash into the ocean.

“Our campaign is to let them run the irrigation system during the day, make sure your water isn’t just running into the gutter.”

If someone sees excess water running down the street they can call the pollution hotline number at 949.366.1553.

Dana Point

In addition to ongoing oversight of managing water quality programs, which includes low-flow diversion of urban runoff to sewers, regular storm drain cleaning, plastic bag and Styrofoam prohibitions, the city of Dana Point also has a few other environmental and conservation programs ahead for 2018, said Matthew Sinacori, city engineer and director of public works.

One of the projects includes the Crown Valley Median Replacement Project, which will replace existing landscaping and irrigation on median curbs with drought tolerant and native plants, with drip irrigation, Sinacori said.

Another project is the Salt Creek/ Monarch Beach Falconry Project, which is a partnership between the city of Dana Point, County of Orange and Monarch Beach Resort “to discourage contamination of recently treated runoff from (the city’s) Salt Creek Treatment Plant by seagulls, by placing falcons and other raptor birds at the beach,” Sinacori said. The project is also in conjunction with the Ozone Treatment Plant, which treats the low flow from Salt Creek before discharging to the ocean, he said.

There’s also the no-smoking ordinance approved by City Council that went into effect on Feb. 15, which is being implemented. Methods include placing informational signage in public right-of-way, distributing information to businesses and on websites and seeking progressive enforcement through voluntary compliance via police services, Sinacori said.

To learn more about Dana Point’s environmental programs, visit www.danapoint.org/department/public-worksengineering/environmental.

INITIATIVE

Local students grow environmental change in their backyards

BY EMILY RASMUSSEN

Students from South Orange County are fully encompassing the term ‘grassroots,’ from converting the school district to more environmentally friendly services to simply collecting recyclables.

From small initiatives to large, longterm impacts, check out what South Orange County youth have been working toward to make their future greener.

Team Zissou and JUST Water

Team Zissou, an environmental club at San Clemente High School, were the leading advocates to switch Capistrano nified School istrict ( S ) schools from plastic water bottles to paper-based bottles.

The campaign lastic ree S ’ started with Team Zissou, which after reaching out to multiple alternative water-bottle companies, came upon JUST water, which uses paper-based water bottles, Team Zissou member Jackson Hinkle said. Partnering with JUST water, a handful of S schools tested the response to the new product for a week and the response was overwhelmingly positive, Hinkle, 18, said.

“The biggest things for me started out from learning the effects of plastic bottles on the environment and human health,” Hinkle, a senior, said. “A lot of what has inspired me is the effects of the plastic bottles on environmental degradation and how it’s going to affect us in the future.”

fter the testing periods, S made the switch to being completely free of plastic water bottles. JUST water CEO Ira aufer said S is the first school district to entirely make the switch.

“It’s absolutely fascinating and amaz-

ing,” Laufer said. “We’re encouraging more and more of that; I wish every school district had such initiative. Since then, we’ve taken a major step reaching out to more school districts.”

ow that S is converted to paperbased water bottles, it saves about 8,541 pounds of plastic each year, according to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Carbon calculator.

Going forward, Hinkle said that he will continue to educate students on the effects of plastic water bottles, in addition to encouraging youth to enable change. Hinkle and Jaden Smith, co-founder of JUST water, have visited Shorecliffs Middle School to talk to students and they plan to visit more local schools.

“Youth should get involved as much as they can with making change on any level because I feel like a lot of times youth feel like they can’t make a lot of change because of their age,” Hinkle said. “But sometimes youth can change even more.”

Ryan’s Recycling and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Ryan’s Recycling Company, the San Juan Capistrano recycling center created by 8-year-old Ryan Hickman and his family, is still on the road to recycling as many cans and bottles as possible.

Ryan, a third-grader at Ambuehl Elementary School, started the recycling center in 2012 because of his passion for collecting cans and bottles. In recent years, Ryan’s Recycling has been thrusted into the spotlight, having been on the

Ellen Show and other national media outlets after The Capistrano Dispatch wrote the story in the 2016 Green Issue. Now, after recycling 320,000 cans and bottles with nearly $6,000 donated to the acific arine ammal enter, yan has started a campaign to challenge the community to recycle 300,000 cans and bottles with him. His goal is to nearly double the total number of the center’s 00,000-plus collection over the past five years. All proceeds will go toward the acific arine ammal enter with the goal of $28,000.

“It’s really important to recycle and keep wildlife from being affected by pollution,” Hickman’s campaign website states. “I’m doing my best to clean up our beaches and protect the planet and I hope you will join me.”

amion ic man, yan’s father, said that students at Ryan’s school have joined in on helping recycle, but the efforts have gone nationwide.

“Since his story went viral over a year ago, he’s received thousands of emails each day. One of the things we found was that people in other states don’t know how to get started (with recycling) and the more we looked into it, we found out that some states don’t take plastic bottles.”

To join the challenge, locals can donate directly online at www.beadoer.io/ ryan and log how many recyclables are collected. The challenge ends on May 1.

ana ills igh School senior illad Shokraee, 17, was one of some 15 to 20 students who were involved in a project to implement solar panels at each S high school.

The project was approved unanimously by the S board of trustees on ec. 6, 2017 to award an $18 million contract to REC Solar Commercial Corporation, a solar energy firm based in San uis Obispo, for the conversion of six high school campuses and the district headquarters to solar power. Shokraee said he

got involved with the pro ect about five months before it was approved, and that with collaboration with students from other S high schools, it too nearly three years for the project to get pushed through.

Shokraee credits the group’s persistence and professionalism at S board meetings and other outreach to the success.

“The fact that we’re students being able to enact so much change from the grassroots level, starting out on

our own gave us so much credibility,” Shokraee said. “It’s always a good idea to get involved with things at your school because you’ll be able to socialize with more people and be able to incite change within your community at your own level. Whether it’s solar panels, or anything else.”

t a S board meeting on arch 14, 15 students were recognized for their participation in the solar project, including Sho raee. t the meeting, S hief ommunications fficer yan Bur

ris said that once completed, the solar project is estimated to save $849,000 per year, which will be invested in campuses and classes.

Shokraee said that going forward, he can see himself getting involved with environmentalism in his career field. Already, Shokraee is involved with a political campaign that is environmentally driven, pushing for solar and other environmentally friendly initiatives, and in college he will consider studying political science.

SATURDAY

APRIL

Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center

Whale Walk and Talk

9-11 a.m. From the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center many different species of whales and dolphins can be seen passing through the acific waters below. Learn about our largest animal visitors on an approximately 1.5-mile walk through the Dana Point Headlands conservation area. Bring your binoculars, and learn migration patterns of different whale species that frequent the area, as well as how to best spot, watch and identify whales. 34558 Scenic Dr., Dana Point, 949.248.3527, www.danapoint.org.

Community Recycling Event at Dana Hills High School

9-11 a.m. Drop off plastic bottles and aluminum cans (no glass) in the back parking lot of Dana Hills High School near the tennis courts and pool area. Students from the school’s chapter of the California Scholastic Federation and Dolphin Pride will collect and sort the recyclables. Funds collected are distributed by the school’s PTSA for student programs. Rain or shine. 33333 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point.

THURSDAY

19

APRIL

Garden Angels

8:30–10:30 a.m. Volunteers meet each Thursday at the Montanez Adobe at Los Rios Park to maintain the gardens. Bring gloves and wear closetoed shoes. 31745 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.606.6386, www.goinnative. net.

Green S n

EARTH DAY AND OTHER ECO-FRIENDLY EVENTS

APRIL

California State Parks Foundation Earth Day

Restoration and Cleanup: Doheny State Beach

9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Make improvements to the campground on Doheny by removing diseased plants, shrubs and weeds. Plant native trees, install planter chips, irrigate new plantings and participate in general cleanups around the beach, creeks and jetty area. Children of all ages are welcome if supervised by parents. Checkin time is at 8:30 a.m. Bring a signed volunteer waiver, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, heavyduty gloves and closed-toe shoes. Sign-up at www.calparks. org/help/earth-day/earth-dayregistration. 25300 Harbor Dr., Dana Point.

California State Parks Foundation Earth Day

Restoration and Cleanup:

San Clemente State Beach

9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sand and paint bench seating at ampfire

enter. Spread crushed fines on ground around ampfire enter seating, pull weeds and clean up grounds and planter boxes and plant native plants in boxes. Check-in time is at 8:30 a.m. Bring a signed volunteer waiver, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, heavy-duty gloves and closedtoe shoes. Sign-up at www. calparks.org/help/earth-day/ earth-day-registration. 225 Avenida alafia, San lemente.

Ocean Institute Beach/ Harbor Cleanup

10 a.m.-noon. Volunteer to help clean up the beach and Harbor areas. To RSVP or for more information, email Andrea Smith, volunteer manager, at asmith@ oceaninstitute.org. Paperwork is required to attend. Visit the cean Institute’s website to fill out the paperwork. Pickers and trash bags will be provided. Volunteers must bring closed toed shoes, sunscreen and a hat. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point. 949.496.2274 ext. 367. www.ocean-institute.org.

Free Community Shred Day

9 a.m.-2 p.m. Monarch Bay Plaza hosts a free shred day with services provided by Paper

beach clean-up at 8:30 a.m. Email info@scwatersheds.com or visit www.scwatersheds.com for more information. 622 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

Earth Day Open House & Environmental Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Join Orange County Waste & Recycling for a free open house and environmental fair. andfill e uipment, tours and entertainment will be offered along with giveaways, prizes and drawings. rima eshecha andfill, 50 Avenida La Pata, San Juan Capistrano. Register at www. eventbrite.com/e/earth-dayopen-house-environmental-fairtickets-43453304002.

Earth Day Celebration at Niguel Botanical Preserve 8:30-11:30 a.m. Stop by the Niguel Botanical Preserve to volunteer to plant, weed and clean up. Children ages 6-12 must be accompanied by an adult. Plants and herbs will be available for purchase. Volunteers should wear closed toed shoes. Water and snacks will be provided. 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy, Laguna Niguel. RSVP to 949.425.5199 or at registration@cityoflagunaniguel.org.

SUNDAY

Recycling and Shredding Specialists. The company is a licensed, bonded/insured cross-cut shredder. Watch your documents being shredded. ertificates of destruction will be available on re uest. imited to five baners boxes per person. For more information, visit their website at www.mobileshred.net. 28 Monarch Bay Plaza, Dana Point, www.monarchbayplaza.com.

Earth Day San Clemente

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Join the city of San Clemente Environmental Division and the Watershed Task Force to reduce litter and pollutants. The free community event will feature live music, kid’s arts and crafts, educational displays, demonstrations and more. The day begins with a

Earth Day at The Ecology Center

22

APRIL

Earth Day at The Ecology Center

Noon-5 p.m. The 9th annual Earth Day Celebration at The Ecology Center will showcase skill sharing, garden activities, local food, music and more. Guests will be able to take a tour of the new mobile ecological experience called Road Trip. Gardening demos, a worm composting demo, pickling and preserving workshops as well as a summer vegetable plant sale will all take place. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano. www.theecologycenter.org.

(Cont. from page 10)

Saturday | 14

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 predetermined course. Admission is free. 801 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. 949.588.5054. www.facebook.com/2XUSanClemente.

SAN CLEMENTE GARDENFESTIVAL

8 a.m.-2 p.m. GardenFest 2018 will offer bargains on hundreds of plants with an emphasis on drought-tolerant species. The San Clemente Garden Club hosts the event in partnership with the city of San Clemente Beaches, Parks & Recreation Department. 100 N. Calle Seville. 949.374.4944. www.sanclementegardenclub.com or Facebook.

COA TEEN THRIVE ALIVE

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Thrive Alive is a new program for children ages 12-17 offered by Community Outreach Alliance (COA). The program will educate students on the current culture that can draw them into making unhealthy choices. COA provides weekly activities with an adult mentor who helps the students thrive in life. The goal is to help students feel respected, appreciated and valued. The first class is April 14 and the program runs through May 19. Community Outreach Alliance, 1040 Calle Negocio. 949.291.2761. www.coathrivealive.com.

CLOSING ART EXHIBIT

Noon-1:30 p.m. Rwandan artist Emmanuel Nkuranga will host an event at a closing reception for his solo exhibition. Attendance is free with general admission to Casa Romantica. 415 Avenida Granada. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Sunday | 15

SOUL FOOD BY THE SAN CLEMENTE BAHA’I CENTER

11 a.m. Soul Food seeks to create an atmosphere of self-reflection and spiritual growth through discussion and musical performances, and this month’s theme is “Restoring the Balance.” Join 20-year-old singer/songwriter Bella Marshall as she performs live music. The program begins at 11:30 a.m., but tea and coffee are available at 11. San Clemente Baha’i Center. 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.791.9192. www.bahaicenter.com.

YOGA ON TAP

11 a.m. Yoga on Tap is held at Left Coast’s tasting room in San Clemente.

San Clemente Times April 12-18, 2018

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.

Monday | 16

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.

BINGO AT GOODY’S

7 p.m. Every Monday, Goody’s hosts a bingo night for a charity of the month. Cards are $1 per sleeve, and raffle prizes are offered. Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949. 492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

COUNTRY DANCING

AND ALL-DAY HAPPY HOUR

7 p.m.-Midnight. Stop by the Swallow’s Inn for country dancing with DJ Patrick and a happy hour that lasts all day. Enjoy a steak dinner for $13 when you are finished with the dance floor. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.3188. www.swallowsinn.com.

Tuesday | 17

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.

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.

OPEN MIC NIGHT

6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

Wednesday | 18

FREE COMEDY AT BLOOMS IRISH SPORTS BAR

8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free com-

At the Movies: Two Actresses Show ‘Gemini’ Qualities in Latest LA Crime-Thriller

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The best movie you’ve never heard of is out this month, and it’s called Gemini. Directed by independent filmmaker Aaron Katz and starring Zoe Kravitz and Lola Kirke, the film could very much qualify as an indie darling. Kravitz and Kirke have had to dodge criticism of favoritism in the past, but when they’re not in the tabloid headlines, the two actresses remain low-key and make some of the most interesting career decisions of their peer group.

In downtown Los Angeles, Jill LeBeau (Kirke) is the best friend and personal assistant of contemporary Hollywood starlet Heather Anderson (Kravitz). Heather is going through a quarter-life crisis with dropping out of a new movie and dumping her boyfriend, Devin (Reeve Carney). When a tragic accident hits Heather’s

edy at Blooms 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

house, Jill becomes the first suspect and has to evade interrogations from Detective Ahn (John Cho). Michelle Forbes co-stars.

Gemini could have been another typical satire on the film industry that we’ve seen in the past, but instead it has more going on under the surface, with themes like trust in friendships and public images. Katz is subtle with his subtext in revealing the true relationship between Jill and Heather, and the two actresses feed off each other well. Kirke particularly shows that she could become a regular face in the indie film community, adding Katz’s film to her previous hits like Mistress America (2015) and Mozart in the Jungle (2014-2018). With neon color schemes similar to Drive (2011) and The Guest (2014), Gemini now joins the modern trend of LA centric crime-thrillers. SC

voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www.knuckleheadsmusic.com.

SC SanClemente

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

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY Locals Only

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

Accurate Termite and Pest Control 949.837.6483, www.accuratetermitecontrol.com

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

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

Sign up to be featured as our monthly Locals Only Business Spotlight for only $100!

Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online. Contact Susie Lantz at 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@picketfencemedia.com

REALTORS

“Sandy & Rich” RE/MAX Coastal Homes 949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com

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

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

William “Bill” L. King Jr.

William “Bill” L. King Jr., of San Clemente, CA passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 28, 2018 at the age of 44.

Born on June 23, 1973 in York, PA, Bill was a Professional Engineer who graduated from the University of Maryland in 1997 with a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. He most recently served as the Deputy Community Development Director / Building Official for the City of San Clemente and the Treasurer of the Orange Empire Chapter of ICC.

Bill married his wife Catherine in 1997, was an avid traveller, enthusiastic sports fan, loved animals, and had a passion for photography.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Catherine King; his parents, William L. King Sr. and Darlene L. King of Bella Vista, AR; his sister Denise L. Isbell and three nephews of

CLASSIFIEDS

Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com

FOR SALE

WOMEN’S BICYCLE

Beautiful, almost new women’s bike. Looks like a commuter/ cruiser with multiple gears. Light mint green frame, white seat, wire basket on the back. $250. Text for photos. 949-533-9761.

GARAGE SALES

BIG MOVING SALE SATURDAY APRIL 14 9 AM TO 2 PM

RESTAURANTS

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

OBITUARIES

Bentonville, AR; his grandparents James and Delores King of Garfield, AR. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Herbert and Izola Almoney of Delta, PA.

A memorial service is scheduled for 1:00PM on April 19, 2018 at the Ole Hanson Beach Club in San Clemente, CA. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Bill’s honor to the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter through the Pet Project Foundation.

Marian Rieniets

Marian Rieniets passed away on Wednesday, April 4th, as a result of dementia complications. She was surrounded by her loving family. She was 94. Born on April 20th, 1923 and raised in Whittier, CA, she was a long time San Clemente resident

We’re downsizing and we have over 30 years of stuff that must go! Antiques: armoir, dresser and coffee table. Other furniture: couch, bar stools and bookcase. 2 wrought iron candelabras. Lots of household and yard decorations, tools, lamps and various other treasures. 24 Calle La Espalda, San Clemente.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

FORSTER RANCH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE

SATURDAY APRIL 28, 2018 8am12pm. X st’s Camino Vera Cruz and Camino De Los Mares.

SAN CLEMENTE ANNUAL TALEGA COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, April 14th 8am-12pm. Over 100 participating homes. There is a map posted on www.talegatoday.com that highlights all the streets that have garage sales. Come check out the great deals!

since 1967.

She lived a life of heroic proportions. Writing this as her grandchildren, we are awed by the depth and breadth of her accomplishments and generosity. She was a powerful force of good; a skilled nurse, formidable businesswoman, a loving and compassionate wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was our matriarch; our indefatigable rock, in the lee of which three generations were sheltered, nursed and loved.

She is survived by daughter Susan, grandchildren, Dan (Candi), Jim and great grandchildren Jordyn, David & Billie. She will also be forever remembered by extended family, neighbors and dear friends.

A Funeral Service in memory of Marian will be held on Saturday, April 21st, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 200 Avenida San Pablo, San Clemente, CA 92672. Tacos and ice cream to follow.

Those who so desire may make memorial donations in memory of Marian to the Family Assistance Ministries (https://www.familyassistance.org).

SC LIVING SC

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50 by

Tom Blake

How Seniors Combat the Feeling of Loneliness

On Oct. 19, CBS News featured an article titled, “Former surgeon general sounds the alarm on the loneliness epidemic.”

In the article, former Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy stated loneliness can increase the possibility of heart disease, stroke and even accelerate Alzheimer’s disease. He added that loneliness might be as bad on health as smoking.

The article mentioned that about 30 percent of people older than 65 live alone and by 85 that percentage exceeds 50 percent. The former surgeon general declared loneliness a public-health epidemic.

By Tom Blake

When single seniors tell me the most difficult challenge they face is loneliness, I often ask them how they overcome it. Here are a few recent responses: Thyrza said, “Loneliness happens to any age or gender. I was very lonely when my parents moved me with them away from my friends. I also felt a touch of loneliness when I was a fulltime, stay-at-home mom. Now at my age, as a widow living alone, loneliness still creeps in.

I’ve learned that freedom to do what I want with my life released me from feeling lonely. Embrace loneliness and know when to release the feeling; it’s just a feeling, anyway.”

Esther emailed, “As a single retired teacher with no children and little family, I understand how loneliness can be a destructive force if not addressed. To avoid loneliness, there are seven things I do:

1. Maintain contact with a small group of close friends with whom I share birthdays, holidays and life events.

2. Volunteer at the local library, museum and botanical garden.

3. Work as an English tutor three days a week.

4. Interact with people of all ages. My local college offers a broad lifelong learning program with varied courses, travel opportunities and cultural events. I am an active participant.

5. Ensure I never miss a regularly scheduled appointment whether it be a dental, medical or beauty appointment.

6. Attend many, diverse cultural and social events and I exercise regularly at a gym, which has a fabulous ‘silver sneakers’ program.

7. Keep in contact through the internet

with old friends and relatives who live far away.”

Jon said, “Doing things in which a person finds fulfillment—not solely to be busy and taking up time—can reduce loneliness. A few close friends can help make up the difference.”

JoAnn has a simple solution: “Get a dog. Best friend, a laugh and cuddle a day!”

Bonnie wrote, “I have been able to mostly escape loneliness because I am an only child. Without playmates under my roof during my growing-up years, I had to invent my own fun. Creativity, reading and writing were my friends.

Now, at 64, and a single, empty-nester mom, those are also my adult enjoyments. I work full-time as a designer and read and write at every opportunity. I also love to travel solo.

If I was lonely, I’d volunteer as a docent or at an animal shelter. I’d have a once-amonth potluck dinner, drive for Meals on Wheels (My 96-year-old uncle still drives and serves others), give time to my house of worship or take a free class at a local college.”

RuthAnn stated, “Some of us have physical conditions that limit our access to being with others. Mine is having to avoid any place that has Wi-Fi running all the time, which eliminates lots of places nowadays.

Art emailed, “I have been a widower for 10 years, but seldom feel lonely. I have been involved with several Meetup.com groups, and I can usually find group activities several days or evenings a week.

I have also been dating a very nice woman for five years and we share many of the same Meetup friends. I met her on Plenty of Fish. The internet offers many opportunities to expand one’s search area.”

Those are great suggestions. The common thread: For seniors to ward off loneliness, they need to include social interaction in their lives as often as they can.

Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. See his websites www.findingloveafter50.com; www.vicsta.com and www. travelafter55.com. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail. com. SC

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our

Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The San Clemente Library is pictured here in 1957. The look of the library has changed significantly, and in 2015 the building’s extensive restoration was completed.

Every week, the San Clemente Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Pets of the Week: Serena and Venus

Eight-month-old sisters Serena and Venus are a closely bonded pair.

Although the two girls are practically impossible to tell apart, they are both easy to handle and don’t mind being snuggled. Serena and Venus have good litter box habits and would be a fun couple of bunnies to have around the house.

If you would like to know more about Venus and Serena, call the San Clemente/

Sudoku

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

Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617, or visit with them at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

Shipping Up to County

Senior Jack Shippy looks to earn a podium spot in Saturday’s Orange County Championships

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

He’s going to the University of California-Davis in the fall for football on a full scholarship. He was a state champion with the Triton football team in 2016. On top of that, he’s got a burgeoning career as a model with a recent shoot for GQ Style.

The only thing missing for Shippy is some major track and field hardware. He has another opportunity to earn some with the Orange County Championships on Saturday, April 14 at Mission Viejo High School.

“Being a senior, I’d love to finish on a high note, especially with OC Champs,” Shippy said. “It’s been a focus of mine. I never strive to ‘at least’ get on something. I want to be the best at what I do, but if I was going to say, (my goal) is to at least get on the podium.”

Shippy just missed out on a medal at last year’s event with a fourth-place finish in the 100 meters at 11.14 seconds. He grabbed three third-place finishes at the South Coast League finals in the 100, 200 and long jump, but Shippy still strives for more.

“(Last year at OC Championships) was

Triton Report

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the Triton programs throughout the playoffs, follow us on Twitter @SOUTHOCSPORTS.

Girls Distance Runners to Challenge at County Championships

The focus for San Clemente girls track and field will be in the 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter on Saturday, April 14 in the Orange County Championships at Mission

San Clemente Times April 12-18, 2018

obviously not the best feeling,” Shippy said. “I’m not used to coming up short on things. Definitely put in a lot of training over the offseason. The feeling I had last year wasn’t good, but definitely pushed me to be better this year.”

Shippy’s training is obvious as the senior has focused on building up fast-twitch muscles and putting on muscle weight for his UC Davis football commitments. Shippy’s numbers aren’t fading, but his sprint times and jump distances haven’t been where they could be as he has tried to balance all of his various responsibilities.

“He’s physically more mature,” San Cle-

Viejo High School.

With the ACT scheduled that morning taking out the Tritons’ sprint and relay groups, senior Chandler Horton and sophomore Hana Catsimanes will handle the spotlight for San Clemente. They’ll each battle deep, talented and familiar groups in the distance races.

As a freshman last season, Catsimanes finished fourth in the 1,600, one second from the podium and six seconds from first place. However, nine of the top 10 from that race return this season, including the entire top five.

Catsimanes has the third-best county time this season in the 1,600, a time of 5:02 on March 9. Her personal record of 4:55 that she posted in winning last season’s South Coast League title would top the list this season.

Horton has a chance to put a stamp on her senior season in the 3,200. Horton was the South Coast League

mente coach Dan Johnson said. “It’s been unfortunate that he’s had a lot of things pulling him in different directions this year. They are legitimate things pulling him. He’s got a really healthy modeling career going. It’s frustrating as a coach, but if I was 18 years old and had someone throwing that kind of money at me, I’d probably be doing the same thing. It’s hard to blame him.”

Shippy set his personal record in the 100 last season at 10.93 seconds. He did the same in the 200 at 22.15 seconds and in long jump at 22 feet, 8.5 inches. He’s been in line with those marks with a 10.99

champion in the event last season at 11:01 but did not run the race at OC Championships. Last season, she ran in the 1,600 and finished ninth.

In the 3,200, only four of the top 10 placers from last year’s OC Championship race return, but three of the returners were in the top five last season.

Horton has the county’s fourth-best time this season with a personal record of 10:54 on March 24 at the Azusa Meet of Champions. All three of the top four times were posted at that event.

Baseball Continues with Tough League Luck

San Clemente (11-5, 0-3) played its first game in 12 days and first league game in 17 days, but the break did no favors to change the Tritons’ South Coast League fortunes so far.

in the 100, 22.69 in the 200, and 21 feet, 8.5 inches in the long jump.

“I feel like I’m on track with it,” Shippy said, “but I feel like I have a lot more potential than I’m showing right now. I just have to focus on my starts right now. My build-up speed has been exponentially faster, but its starts right now I need to work on.”

With the natural ability that Shippy has, technique and nuance are the name of the game for reaching those upper levels. With the right amount of work, it could all click in at any time, including Saturday with a shot at the podium. SC

On Tuesday, April 10, San Clemente cut its deficit to two runs in the sixth inning at Capistrano Valley, but the Cougars added three runs in the bottom of the sixth to win, 6-1.

San Clemente hosted Capistrano Valley on Wednesday, April 11, but results were not available at press time. The Tritons return to Capistrano Valley on Friday, April 13.

Softball Gets Back Into Schedule

San Clemente (8-7, 1-0) will play its first game in 13 days when the Tritons host Aliso Niguel on Thursday, April 12. It will also be San Clemente’s second game in 22 days.

The Tritons continue league play next week hosting Mission Viejo on Tuesday, April 17 and travelling to Laguna Hills on Thursday, April 19. SC

SanClemente

SC SURF

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Boogie On the Bells Bowl

Pat Gudauskas

gets personal best result at historic Bells Beach

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

It’s going to be a heck of a year on the WSL Championship World Tour (CT).

It wasn’t but a couple of weeks back that we were applauding young Griffin Colapinto for his epic 10-point ride at the Quiksilver Pro, the season-opener held at Snapper Rocks and Kirra Beach in Australia. The performance carried the 19-yearold rookie all the way to a third-place finish. This time it was Pat Gudauskas’ turn to get in on the action.

At the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach, the second stop on tour and the longest running contest in professional surfing, Gudauskas got going early and didn’t let down until he’d battled his way into a semifinal duel against world champ Mick Fanning.

One of the winningest surfers in the history of the sport with three world titles to his credit, the bowl at Bells is perhaps Fanning’s favorite spot on tour. Add to the equation that earlier in the year he announced this year’s contest at Bells would be the last of his storied career and that after 19 years on tour, he was ready to hang it up. Needless to say, all eyes were on Fanning at Bells.

En route to a respectable third-place

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

As far as rising stars to watch, Dana Point’s Callan Emery is definitely worthy of some attention.

“It seems like every week he’s just getting better and better,” said Eric Diamond, Executive Committee Chairman for the Dana Point Surf Club. “Not only does he continue to improve, but he’s got a great attitude and is an amazing ambassador for our community.”

Emery, a 12-year-old seventh-grader at Marco Forster Middle School, is one of Salt Creek’s emerging talents. Over the last couple of seasons, he’s chalked up his fair share of contest wins, but more than that, as Diamond noted, the kid’s stoked to be living the surf life.

After falling off the world tour in 2013, Pat Gudauskas is back swinging away in the big leagues and just notched his best-ever result on the WSL’s Championship World Tour. Photo: WSL

finish, Gudauskas had the honor and privilege of surfing against him in one of his last heats.

“What an incredible week to celebrate the hero, the friend, and the inspiration that is Mick Fanning,” reflected Pat on social media last weekend. “Over the past week or two it’s been incredible to see what you mean to so many different people and for so many different reasons. For my brothers and me, the biggest thing I’ve learned from you is how you interact with everyone around you. Despite being the super hero competitor that you are, you are humble, gracious, and a true testament to the ability to overcome the many different challenges that life throws at you. For that you are the biggest inspiration to us.”

Fanning ended up beating Gudauskas, but in the end it mattered little. Gudauskas had scored his personal best result on tour, solidifying his spot on the WSL rankings. But more than that, he got to be a part of history.

“This event marks a career highlight for me,” Gudauskas continued. “In terms of results, it was my best result on the CT, but more than a result or a finish was the feeling that came with this week. To feel that energy and confirm what I had been working towards—a place of performing freely and with fire—it’s why I love surfing on the big stage and why we all work hard towards our goals in life so that we can be in the moment and enjoy the opportunities that present themselves. To surf that heat against my hero and friend

When asked what his favorite thing about surfing is, he succinctly replies, “Finding good waves and scoring with my friends.”

When asked where he sees surfing taking him in the next 10 years, his answer is the same.

“I hope to have a bunch of great surf trips with my friends and family in the next

10 years,” Callan said. Every 12-year-old surfer looks up to somebody, and in the case of Callan it’s Hawaiian stylist and entertainer Mason Ho.

“He has a great attitude and always looks like he’s having fun no matter what the conditions are,” Diamond added. The same could be said about Callan. SC

Mick was probably the sickest experience. I will never forget it. I’ve pretty much been floating with stoke since that heat ended.”

Fanning also reflected on his career at the famed surf break.

“I always said I wanted to finish the year up here at Bells,” said Fanning, who counts a Lower Trestles title among his career accomplishments. “It has been incredible to see all the support in Torquay and the support of the fans. This is my 20th year of coming down to Bells Beach, and to all the people surfing in this event, it was so much fun. Seabass (Sebastian Zietz), Paddy Gudang (Patrick Gudauskas), Wilko (Matt Wilkinson), Owen (Wright)— every time I paddled out, I felt like I was going surfing with a mate, and that was really special.”

Next on tap for San Clemente’s Gudauskas, Colapinto, Kolohe Andino and the rest of the WSL’s cast of characters is the third and final stop of the tour’s Australian leg at Margaret River. At the moment, Surfline is forecasting a solid southwest swell to hit the area over the weekend, which could get the contest off in some legit surf.

The setup at Margaret River’s Main Break is a reputed big-wave zone in Western Australia, and after surfing a handful of Big Wave Tour contests, Gudauskas is fired up to keep the vibe alive. Other venue options include The Box, which is a dangerous “slab” wave that breaks in exceptionally shallow water; and North Point, which is a perfect, running, right-hand barrel. Surfline noted that the contest getting underway at North Point is “possible.”

The Margaret River Pro runs from April 11-22. Tune into www.worldsurfleague. com for more information, updates and to watch all the action unfold live. SC

Water Temperature: 59-60 degrees F

Water Visibility and Conditions:

San Clemente: 5-8’ Fair

Catalina: 15-20’ Fair-Good

Thursday: New northwest swell fills in waistshoulder high (3-4’) surf. Unfortunately, onshore wind will likely make for bump conditions through the day.

Outlook: Mixed northwest and small south swell prevails Friday and through the weekend. Surf hangs in the waist-shoulder high (3-4’+) zone, while best northwest exposed areas see some larger sets. Morning winds are light/ variable to light offshore for clean conditions, then light+ onshore each afternoon. Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.