February 20, 2020 by San Clemente Times

LO C A L

N EWS

February 20-26, 2020 YO U

C A N

U S E

CoastLines: Stranded at Sea, Home at Last PAGE 12

VOLUME 15, ISSUE 8

2020 Spring Sports Preview San Clemente High School Teams Charge into the Sunshine S P O R T S / PAG E 1 6

The San Clemente baseball team is experienced at the bat with plenty of seniors, but the Tritons will need new arms to step up in the pitching rotation. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Council Reviews Legal Service Costs EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

Historical Society Dedicates Plaque to Founding Members EYE ON SC/PAGE 4

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City Still Reviewing Beach Hut Deli Design EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

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said the shape of the building—originally built as a gas station—doesn’t lend itself to easy rebirth as Spanish style. “You’ve certainly improved it,” panel member Barton Crandell told Peters. “The building is no box of chocolates,” the architect observed. Spanish motif is fitting, said Larry Culbertson, president of the San Clemente Historical Society, since the city is proposing a North Beach historical district. The Beach Hut’s neighboring buildings include several early San Clemente landmarks— OC Fresca restaurant, Casino San Clemente, the Ole Hanson Beach Club and the soon-to-be-renovated Miramar Theater. Culbertson supported the direction the remodel is taking, acknowledging the design challenges that Peters faces trying to remake the building.—Fred Swegles

Five things San Clemente should know this week Judge Denies City’s and HOA’s Motion in TCA Lawsuit THE LATEST: A judge in Riverside County last month denied the city of San Clemente and a homeowners association’s motion to stop the Transportation Corridor Agencies (TCA) from considering alternative routes to extend the 241 Toll Road after the initial plan to build the extension south of San Clemente was officially blocked in 2016. The TCA, according to the Jan. 28 ruling, “may elect not to proceed with the extension, may select an alternative to the extension, and may condition the construction and operation of the extension in whatever manner that is consistent with the law.” According to City Attorney Scott Smith, the court only denied the city and The Reserve Maintenance Corporation’s joint motion for preliminary judgment on certain elements of their lawsuit, which challenges a 2016 settlement agreement between the TCA and various environmental groups. “There’s no ultimate outcome on the case, per se,” Smith explained during the city council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18. “Those are just pre-trial motions where the court was just asked to decide as a matter of law in our favor and the court declined to do that, leaving the issues open for argument, as the court (hearing) is set for next month.” In an emailed statement from the TCA, the agencies said they were pleased with “the court’s ruling on these key issues and look forward to completely resolving this litigation going forward.” Under the 2016 settlement agreement, the TCA agreed not to build a 241 Toll Road extension through the San Mateo Watershed and Trestles. As a result of that agreement, the TCA and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) began examining a variety of proposals for the 241 to connect to Interstate 5. Some of those proposals, which are currently being narrowed, would cut through San Clemente. The city and The Reserve had filed separate lawsuits against the TCA in August 2017, challenging the settlement and alleging the agreement was made without an environmental review or public input. The city’s lawsuit had also alleged that any route extension connecting the 241 to the I-5 via San Clemente would go against the legislatively intended route of the toll San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

This building, formerly a gas station and later a real estate office and a coffee house, is to be reborn at North Beach in Spanish motif. Photo: Fred Swegles

road per the Streets and Highways Code section 541. Riverside Superior Court Judge Daniel Ottolia stated in his ruling that the settlement agreement didn’t preclude the agencies from pursuing other route options, nor did it commit the TCA to any particular route extension. “The settlement agreement leaves (the TCA) free to pursue multiple feasible options for completing the subject State Route 241 (“SR-241”) extension project which could be identified, evaluated, and potentially advanced in a manner consistent with the laws that apply and which meet the transportation needs of the (TCA),” the ruling stated. Addressing the city’s argument on the legislative intent, Ottolia noted that the section of the law states: “Route 241 is from Route 5 south of San Clemente to Route 91 in the City of Anaheim.” “There’s no requirement or language in the statute that the road bypass San Clemente or that it intersect Interstate 5 south of San Clemente,” the judge stated. Ottolia later addressed the city and the HOA’s argument that a separate March 2017 protective agreement between the environmental groups, the TCA and Caltrans was illegal and invalid because only Michael Kraman, the TCA’s chief executive, signed it, and without the approval of the TCA’s board. The judge found that when the TCA Board approved the 2016 settlement, it had also given Kramen the authorization to enter into the 2017 protective agreement—which had also been a term of the settlement that the board approved in a 10-2 vote. Councilmember Kathy Ward—then mayor of San Clemente and liaison to the TCA—and former San Juan Capistrano Councilmember Kerry Ferguson voted

against the 2016 settlement agreement, San Clemente Times previously reported. WHAT’S NEXT: According to the Riverside County Court, hearings for the case are scheduled March 12 and April 15.— Shawn Raymundo

City Still Reviewing Beach Hut Deli Design for North Beach THE LATEST: The Beach Hut Deli, a new business coming to San Clemente’s North Beach, is still in the works, having halted a remodeling last year. The remodel is being redesigned to better reflect a Spanish Colonial Revival architectural motif that the city requires in designated gateways into town. The city’s Design Review Subcommittee reviewed a new set of drawings at a meeting on Feb. 12. Committee members called the new look much better than a previous one sent back to the drawing board last summer after a review. Members of the design panel generally supported the new look submitted by Bill Peters, a new architect brought into the project. They offered suggestions and asked Peters to submit a complete set of materials to look at during a final review, before sending the new design to the Planning Commission for possible approval. The main lingering question is how to provide nice-looking Spanish roof tiles without pushing the cost of the remodel beyond feasibility. The roof won’t support clay tiles, the panel acknowledged. Members suggested alternative tile materials for an authentic look. The city is requiring a “minor cultural heritage permit” for the remodel. Panelists

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Council Reviews Legal Service Costs THE LATEST: Before councilors convened for their regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18, they held a public workshop to review and discuss the city’s legal services budget and costs associated with ongoing litigation, laying the groundwork for a potential RFP to consider other law firms. The purpose of the workshop, the city explained, was to give the public an opportunity to review the city’s legal expenses in the current fiscal year while also allowing the council to identify cost-savings opportunities. The move to have the council review the legal services budget came at the request of Mayor Pro Tem Laura Ferguson, who had proposed bringing the topic up for discussion this past December. Ferguson has repeatedly advocated for an RFP ahead of the upcoming fiscal-year budget process to review alternative legal teams other than Best, Best & Krieger. During the meeting, Ferguson was critical of the report, stating that it didn’t adequately explain the city’s litigation-related costs and left out the total legal costs for Fiscal Year 2018-19. Based on San Clemente Times’ review of the staff report for the budget, the city spent nearly $2.46 million in total legalrelated costs last fiscal year. General services work made up 18% of the total bill, while 27% accounted for litigation and legal services. Another 7% went toward Public Record Act requests and 27% paid for experts related to the Transportation Corridor Agencies and hospitals. According to the report, the city has spent an average of $442,000 a year on general services work under its legal services contract with BB&K, which the city retained in 2015. The general services costs, which don’t cover litigation, comprise departmental (Cont. on page 4) sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC (Cont. from page 3) work with the exception of PRA requests. At the midway point of the current fiscal year, the city is currently on track to meet that $442,000 average, according to the staff report. Since 2016, the city has initiated several legal challenges against the TCA, including the lawsuit challenging the agencies’ settlement agreement that prevents them from extending the 241 Toll Road south of San Clemente. As of this fiscal year, the city’s legal costs for all open TCA cases have amounted to roughly $1.33 million—more than a $1 million of which has been spent on hiring TCA experts, according to the city. City Attorney Scott Smith explained the experts have provided information on a regular basis about traffic engineering and the history and interplay of the TCA. The goal of contracting those experts, Smith added, was to have them engage with the city rather than publish findings and opinions elsewhere. “So, it was to keep those discussions and analyses confidential,” he said. Smith also noted that council did have the option to drop those cases and pursue other non-legal methods, therefore avoiding the litigation costs. Councilors, along with members of the public, voiced strong opposition to such an action. The city is also currently the defendant in separate lawsuits against the Coastal Access Alliance, Anthem Sales Management (Shikli), and Housing is a Human Right Orange County. The cost to defend the city in those three cases, according to the report, has accumulated to $335,515 since they were initiated. More than $75,500 has been spent on the case against Coastal Access Alliance, which challenges the city’s ordinance to regulate Short Term Lodging Units. The city’s legal fees to dispute Anthem’s case, challenging the city’s decision to revoke an STLU permit, has cost $60,000. Housing is a Human Right, along with Emergency Shelter Coalition, have filed a handful of homelessness-related lawsuits against the city, costing San Clemente $200,000, according to the report. The city notes that work related to public records requests is billed separately from its retainer with BB&K and has been a “significant and growing legal and staff expense,” calling it the “biggest disappointment in controlling general services legal fees.” According to the city, San Clemente’s PRA expenses are much higher compared to other cities with which BB&K contracts. Since FY 2015-16, when BB&K was contracted, the city has spent $471,860 on PRA work. In the first two fiscal years of the BB&K contract combined, the city’s PRA expenses amounted to $125,682. In FY 2017-18 alone, the cost was $121,178, and in FY 2018-19, the cost was $172,000. As of the release of the report, the city’s PRA cost for FY 2019-20 was $53,000. The city stated that the influx of PRA costs was a result of a few individuals filing “an extraordinary number of requests.” To San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

A surprised Lois Divel, the city’s matriarch, reacts to the unveiling of a plaque by the San Clemente Historical Society on Avenida del Mar on Monday, Feb. 17, recognizing her and her son, Fred Divel, as the founding members of the group. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

rein in those costs, the city recommended the council consider two options—limiting the city’s monthly budget for PRA requests and setting a monthly cap on a citizens’ requests. Under the first option, the city would cease any public records review after staff had met its monthly legal budget of $5,000. The second option would put a cap on the number of PRA hours available to each individual requesting documents. Ferguson asked Smith how many other cities that BB&K contracts with budget $5,000 a month for PRA requests. Smith said San Clemente was the only one, as others have it included in their retainer. Smith’s response prompted Mayor Dan Bane to ask whether it would be costeffective for the city to do that as well. Smith said that while that could be discussed, he noted that the fixed cost would be based on the city’s track record, likely inflating the amount to cover the down years. WHAT’S NEXT: Near the conclusion of the discussion, Ferguson again floated the idea of initiating a request for proposals for alternative litigation services during a future meeting, “to see if we can get more bang for our buck.” Bane ended the workshop by stating that he’d be open to looking at RFPs at a later date.—SR

San Clemente Gets Federal Funding for Shoreline Project THE LATEST: More than $500,000 in federal funding will come to San Clemente to help complete the design phase of an ongoing sand replenishment project, Rep. Mike Levin, D-CA, announced last week. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will allocate $505,000 in federal funding for the Planning, Engineering and Design phase

of the San Clemente Shoreline Project, which is meant to mitigate beach erosion and protect the Los Angeles-San DiegoSan Luis Obispo Rail Corridor. The project, a press release from Levin’s office stated, will also protect “roads, buildings, and other infrastructure, as well as maintain recreational use of San Clemente’s coastline.” Levin also announced that the $400,000 in federal funding from the Army Corps of Engineers is being allocated for the design phase of the Encinitas-Solana Beach Coastal Storm Damage Reduction Project. The funding for that project comes in the wake of a bluff collapse at Encinitas’ Grandview Beach last year. “While much more federal funding will be needed to secure our bluffs over the long-term, this is a significant step that was long overdue,” Levin said in the release. According to a 2016 staff report on the Shoreline Project from the city, the design phase of the project was estimated to cost just shy of $1.14 million, with the Army Corps of Engineers responsible for 65% of the cost and city obligated for 35%. WHAT’S NEXT: The design phase, according to the city, will include two years of pre-construction monitoring. The construction phase of the project is estimated to cost $11.3 million, requiring a local contribution of 35%, or roughly $4 million, according to the city. A pair of grants the city applied for to the State Parks Department, which were approved, provided San Clemente with $3.4 million, leaving the city to come up with the remaining $600,000.

Historical Society Dedicates Plaque to Founding Members THE LATEST: A few dozen people gathered

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downtown on Monday morning, Feb. 17, to watch as the San Clemente Historical Society surprised the town’s matriarch, Lois Divel, with the unveiling of a plaque dedicated to her and her late son, Fred. The Historical Society held the special ceremony at the rest area outside of Isabelle’s Cabinet on Avenida Del Mar, where a mural made of tiles features the historic Bartow Mansion. There, the group unveiled a newly installed plaque, recognizing the mother and son as founding members of the organization who led the effort to save the demolished mansion. Elated after being surprised by the plaque, Lois Divel said she was overwhelmed by the honor and thanked her relatives and the Historical Society for putting the event together. Rick Divel, Lois’ nephew, also expressed gratitude to the Historical Society, and voiced his appreciation to his aunt and Fred, who died in 2018, for helping start the group in 1973. “She and Fred did a wonderful job of kicking this thing off and starting the Historical Society, and I think this is just great,” he said. “I wish Fred could be here to see what’s going on now, and I know he’d be excited to see what’s going on.” The dedication of the Bartow mural had historic significance for the Historical Society, explained group President Larry Culbertson. The mural is one of eight others that can be found downtown as part of the ongoing Landmarks on Del Mar art project. The initiative led by the Historical Society and the Downtown Business Association since 2009 features tile murals of various San Clemente landmarks. There are to be 14 murals, eight of which have been completed so far, with two more scheduled to be installed this year. According to Culbertson, the Mansion, which was constructed in 1928 overlooking Trafalgar Canyon and could be seen from the knoll of the Pier Bowl, was unlawfully razed without the proper permits in 1972—at “a time when developers were razing Ole Hanson-era buildings at an alarming rate.” “As San Clemente citizens were starting to voice concern about the loss of these historic resources, one young man stood out tall from that group—Fred Divel,” Culbertson said. “Fred wrote letters to the editor to rally the preservation movement in San Clemente. Supported by his parents, Don and Lois, many other groups and individuals joined this movement, which resulted in the founding of the Historical Society in 1973.” For nearly the past 50 years, Culbertson boasted, “the Historical Society has kept the light of preservation in San Clemente,” with Lois, the city’s matriarch since 2006, remaining an active member, along with Fred, until his passing. “We lost Fred in 2018, but we will always remember what you did for our Spanish Village by the Sea,” Culbertson said.—SR sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES

Community Meetings

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OC Tavern to Host Fundraiser for Schenkenberger Family OC Tavern will be hosting a fundraiser night on Feb. 22 from 6 p.m.-2 a.m. to help support the Schenkenberger family in light of a tragic accident that has resulted in costly medical bills. On Super Bowl Sunday in 2017, Dana Hills graduate Steve Schenkenberger had been riding his mountain bike near Niguel Road and Ridgeway Avenue in Laguna Niguel, when he was struck by a hit-and-run driver. The incident resulted in Schenkenberger sustaining severe injuries in his brain. He underwent emergency surgery that night in which a piece of his skull was removed to relieve pressure. Schenkenberger has required 24/7 care and has had to undergo multiple surgeries since then. He is now unable to walk or speak, using blinking to communicate “yes” or “no” responses. There will be a $20 cover charge at OC Tavern, and 100% of the funds raised will go to the Schenkenberger family. There will also be dinner, drinks and live music by the James Kelly Band. Attendees can enjoy clothing and jewelry vendors, line dancing and raffle prizes. To make donations to the Schenkenberger family, visit raddadtbi.org and specify that your donation is for Steve Schenkenberger. You can also visit steveschenkenberger.com.

City to Display Time Capsule as Part of San Clemente Day Celebrations The city will celebrate San Clemente Day at the end of the month by hosting a series of activities and events for residents to enjoy, including a display of the Sister Monument Time Capsule 50 years after it was dedicated. The festivities will kick off at 8 a.m. on Feb. 29 at the San Clemente Pier with the third annual Kids’ Fishing Derby. Honoring the San Clemente Municipal Pier’s historic significance as a fishing pier, the annual Fishing Derby promotes fishing for children of all skill levels and abilities. The Derby is open to children between the ages of 6 and 13 and requires advance registration. Fishing poles, bait, and hooks are available while supplies last, but participants are welcome to bring their own equipment. At 10 a.m., the Ole Hanson Beach Club, located at 105 West Avenida Pico, will host a free recreation swim until 1 p.m. Attendees of all ages can swim in the warm-water pool, listen to music from the roaring ’20s, and play on the inflatable obSan Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25

BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You (BILY) is free and can help parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing (e.g., failure to launch, drug abuse, disrespect). San Clemente Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. bilysc.org.

The Sister Monument Time Capsule, which was buried near the San Clemente Library and recently unearthed, will be on display at the community center as part of the San Clemente Day celebrations on Feb. 29. Photo: Fred Swegles

stacle course. As part of the celebration, the city will also display the Sister Monument Time Capsule at the San Clemente Community Center, located at 100 North Calle Seville. Dedicated in 1969, and sealed in 1975 in conjunction with the adoption of San Clemente’s sister city, San Clemente del Tuyu in Argentina, the time capsule was going to be opened on San Clemente Day. However, Samantha Wylie, the city’s recreation manager, announced at the city council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 18, that when the city staff unearthed the capsule in preparation for its unveiling, they found it had been flooded with water. “Unfortunately, 1969 didn’t do us any justice, and it was a little flooded with water,” Wylie said. “So, unfortunately, we weren’t able recoup the materials, but the whole capsule is on display.” According to Wylie, the capsule appeared to have contained newspaper articles, some photos and cassettes, among other things. The capsule itself, she said, will be on display for the community to see through the month of March. More information can be found at the city’s website, san-clemente.org/events, or by calling the city’s Recreation Division at 949.361.8264 or 949.429.8797.

City to Hold Tryouts for Open Lifeguard Positions With the summer only a few months away, the city of San Clemente is gearing up for the season up by hosting tryouts for seasonal lifeguards and lifeguard trainees on Sunday, Feb. 23 at the Marine Safety Division headquarters near the San Clemente Pier.

To qualify, applicants will compete in an approximately 800-yard ocean swim and finish in less than 13 ½ minutes. Successful candidates will then compete in a 1,200yard, run-swim-run. The top candidates from the physical tests will be invited to an interview that same day. The top candidates from the interview process will be invited to participate in a mandatory 92-hour training program, which will be held on March 28 and 29, and April 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26. To be eligible, candidates must have a valid work permit and be at least 16 years old by June 8, 2020; they also must be available for all 92 hours of training. Applicants under the age of 18 must have a signed parental consent form prior to participating in the tryouts. The use of wetsuits, goggles, fins, or other swimming aids are not permitted. Applicants can apply online at san-clemente.org/jobs or in-person at the Marine Safety headquarters. The Ocean Lifeguard position is paid an hourly rate ranging from $18.24 to $22.17. The entry level Lifeguard Trainee pay is $12.04 an hour. For additional information, contact Rod Mellott at mellottr@san-clemente.org or call 949.361.8219.

CUSD Celebrates Teachers of the Year Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD) announced and celebrated the Teacher of the Year for elementary, middle and high schools on Thursday, Feb. 6. Steve Lopinto at Laguna Niguel Elementary School in Laguna Niguel was named the Elementary School Teacher of

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SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS 7-8:40 p.m. The San Clemente Toastmasters meets every Tuesday, with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. so everyone can greet each other. San Clemente Baha’i Center, 3316 Avenida Del Presidente. 858.900.6175 sanclementetoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org. SUNRISE ROTARY 7:15-8:30 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Club Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega. scsunriserotary.com. WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26

DESIGN REVIEW SUBCOMMITTEE 4-5:30 p.m. The San Clemente Design Review Subcommittee will conduct its regularly scheduled meeting. 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

the Year; Lindsey Behm at Marco Forster Middle School in San Juan Capistrano was named the Middle School Teacher of the Year; and Christy Curtis at Capistrano Valley High School in Mission Viejo was named the High School Teacher of the Year. Behm was surprised by CUSD officials in her classroom and congratulated by students and others. Behm teaches eighthgrade Social Studies. “I’m teaching students about their rights and responsibilities as citizens, and trying to get them to be involved more in politics and decisions in the future,” Behm said. “I like helping all the students succeed.” The CUSD teachers now move on to the Orange County Teacher of the Year competition. Have something interesting to submit to our News Bites section?

Submissions are due by 10 a.m. the Monday of the week you’d like published. Email sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com. sanclementetimes.com

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Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes San Clemente Times, Vol. 15, Issue 8. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (danapointtimes. com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (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 2019. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

Letters to The Editor MEASURE H BOND KEN SIERACKI, San Clemente

The Measure H Bond will have severe impacts on property owners and residents. Property valued at $1 million will start at $340, but because of the annual 2% compounded increases in assessment values, that number grows to $406 by year 10, $495 by year 20 and eventually reaching $604. That owner can expect to pay a total of $13,793 during the bond’s life. Those numbers could be significantly greater if the property is reassessed due to a kitchen or bathroom remodel or room or deck addition. This constantly increasing tax will be a plague on owners for decades and will have the same negative impact as a massive citywide Mello-Roos tax. Property sales and values will be harmed as buyers assess the impact of this onerous tax on property purchases. Commercial and rental owners with more valuable properties would pay significant taxes. A $3 million property would start at $1,020 and rise to $1,346 by year 15 and eventually increase to $1,811. Those owners constantly make improvements to their properties, so they will face repeated reassessments and be forced to pay even higher taxes. Those kinds of costs will not be ignored. Owners will be forced to pass those costs along to their customers and tenants through higher product and service prices and rents. Residents of San Clemente will be hit twice by this tax—on their own property tax bill and again through higher prices for goods, services and rents. The Capistrano Unified School District claim that bond money will only be used for San Clemente building improvements is a deceptively misleading statement. While bond money may be used for building maintenance and improvements, passage of the bond will allow CUSD to reallocate current and future funding already in its budgets that would otherwise have been used on San Clemente schools for maintenance and improvements. Thus, the bond could free up maintenance money in current budgets for salaries, pensions and benefits. Freed-up funds could also be used on maintenance and improvements on schools in other CUSD cities. San Clemente taxpayers would unknowingly pay to renovate schools in other cities and pay for higher salaries and benefits for CUSD employees. The

bond funds would allow CUSD to play a budgetary shell game with current budgets. This deceptive ruse and backdoor approach to freeing up money for salaries, pensions and benefits will harm all residents and must be stopped.

some sort of medal. It’s brilliant. It’s not close to a school or public retail establishment. We all know there’s not one location that will receive unanimous approval. Right now, the dog park seems to be the best option on the table.

BOND MEASURE

DOG PARK

PATRICK WARREN, San Clemente

LYNNE SPIEGEL, San Clemente

I urge voters to reject Measure H, which creates a new property tax to fund the refurbishment and modernization of San Clemente and Capo Beach schools. I’m sure these schools need the work proposed. I also understand the importance of good schools for our children and home values; yet carve-out taxes of this nature serve as a bailout of the district for past mismanagement of our existing income and local property taxes. When did proper repair, maintenance and modernization get pushed out of the budget? This measure would allow the diversion of even more existing budget resources for teacher and administrative costs. It’s time our school officials genuinely put our students first.

As one of the dog owners quoted in a recent article on the dog park, I am very pleased that our concerns will reach a much larger audience. Shawn Raymundo did an excellent job of explaining why we should be allowed to keep the only dog park in San Clemente and why it is impracticable to stuff every size/temperament dog together in the small-dog side. My morning group has been doing the best we could to get the word out to fellow dog owners, the nearby animal shelter, the golf club that abuts, and passing hikers and bikers. Now, thanks to the SC Times article, all of San Clemente will learn of this ludicrous plan, especially parents of young children at the ballpark and skate park only two-tenths of a mile away. On page 3 of the same issue, there is an article about a different issue that came before the city council: cell towers. One of the five city council members, Mr. Chris Hamm, is quoted as saying, “I’ve been a firm believer that if we have a community that rises up and has a serious concern that we need to fight it and represent the community.” Well, we are the community—the tax-paying, voting community—who very much want to keep our dog park.

DOG PARK IS PERFECT SPOT FOR HOMELESS SHELTER PAMELA PEERY, San Clemente

The dog park is the ideal place for a homeless shelter. I own two dogs, a smaller dog and a larger dog. I have visited both San Clemente dog parks dozens of times. I am well familiar with what goes on at both. Many dog owners ignore the size chart. There are pretty much always large dogs at the “small dog” park and vice versa. Dogs are either aggressive or they’re not. Size is largely irrelevant. Most of the city’s dog parks aren’t divided by size. The homeless problem needs to be addressed. The court’s opinion in Martin v. City of Boise prevents law enforcement from doing anything if we don’t have a shelter to move them to. That’s the law in California right now. Sadly, the U.S. Supreme Court declined the appeal. A shelter, therefore, must be built to get them out of North Beach, in front of our library, etc. I love and use these dog parks, but abating the homeless problem is a higher priority, and it considerably outweighs inconveniencing a handful of dog owners. These two dog parks sit empty most of the time. They are rarely busy and, in fact, seem underutilized. We could easily give up one. Whoever thought of converting the dog park to a homeless shelter deserves Page 7

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

Join SC Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, Feb. 21 at 8 a.m., Dorothy Visser Senior Center Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Shawn Raymundo every Friday. The chat will be held at Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria. All are welcome.

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(Maori culture from New Zealand), Hawaiian hula, Tahitian, Samoan music/dance forms. All are welcome. Hula Connection, 3551 Camino Mira Costa, Suite J, San Clemente. 949.842.0662. hulaconnection.net.

What’s going on in and around town this week

KARAOKE AT GOODY’S 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday, Goody’s Tavern hosts a karaoke night, which includes a great sound system, stage, a fair rotation and good vibes. Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. goodystavern.com.

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Wednesday | 26

Thursday | 20 ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS AT BARNOA 7-9 p.m. Live music every Thursday. A rotating cast of Orange County’s most talented musicians play acoustic covers and original music. Enjoy a great wine selection, craft beers, tasty appetizers and Barnoa’s full dinner menu. Must be 21 and older. Barnoa Wine and Craft Beer Bistro. 831 Via Suerte, San Clemente. 949.388.4378. barnoawinebar.com.

Friday | 21 HAPPY HOUR AND SILENT AUCTION 5-8 p.m. Join parents and staff members of the Palisades Wave Education Foundation for this adults-only night at Lost Winds Brewing Company. A portion of the beer proceeds will go back to the Foundation. There will be a silent auction, which will include all kinds of items, including Disney Park Hopper tickets, Rainbow Sandals, haircuts for the family, gift cards for local restaurants, tickets to performing art shows and more. Snacks will be provided at no charge. Attendees will also receive a card good for a free haircut for new customers or $5 off for returning customers at Sports Clips (in Ocean View Plaza). Lost Winds, 924 Calle Negocio, Suite C, San Clemente. palisadeswavefoundation@gmail.com. palisadesfoundation.org.

Saturday | 22 ‘LASS YOUR AFF’ OFF! 7:30-9:30 p.m. Join Comedy in the OC for an evening of side-splitting laughter. The comedy show at Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn is guaranteed to put a smile on your face and keep you laughing long after the evening ends. Featuring comedians from television, radio, and comedy clubs across the U.S, the show is produced by Orange County comedian Tom Riehl. This month’s headliner is the very funny Daniel Eachus. To purchase tickets, go to comedyinthoc.com. Adele’s San Clemente San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

EDITOR’S PICK Photo: File

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26: CHEERS FOR BEERS—DOCENT BREWING 6-9 p.m. Join Brussels Bistro for this special event with its favorite local brewers. Don’t miss out on the launch of its new partnership with Docent Brewing, as they’ll be presenting “GIMME-IPA” As usual, there will be free beer tastings and a free souvenir glass with your purchase. The head brewer from Docent will attend the event to answer any questions you might have. Brussels Bistro San Clemente, 218 Avenida Del Mar. 949.218.8489. brusselsbistro.com

Inn, 2600 Avenida del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.481.1222.

Sunday | 23 FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers along Avenida Del Mar. 949 361 8200. san-clemente.org. BRUNCH AT RAYA 11 a.m.-2 p.m. A tempting brunch with flowing champagne awaits guests every Sunday morning in RAYA at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Start with a fresh fruit martini and a selection of pastries, then enjoy a three-course a la carte menu. Cost is $72. One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. ritzcarlton.com.

Monday | 24 ‘THE S WORD’ DOCUMENTARY SCREENING 6:30-8:30 p.m. In an effort to reduce the stigma of suicide, the documentary film follows the stories of suicide survivors. Join the community in a screening of The S Word, followed by a panel discussion

with mental health professionals. This film screening is for adults and youth ages 12 and up, and it will take place in the Little Theater at San Clemente High School. 700 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. 949.677.0402. theswordmovie.com. PTSD WARRIOR GROUP 7 p.m. Warrior Groups are fellowships for combat veterans and their families to share their experiences, testimonies of healing, compassion and hope in overcoming the invisible wounds of war. PTSD Foundation of America-Southern California, 216 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. 619.362.0642. ptsdusa.org. 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. goodystavern.com.

Tuesday | 25 BEGINNING HULA CLASS 6:30-7:15 p.m. Have fun and learn basic language, songs, dance steps, motions and meanings. Includes work with poi balls Page 9

NORTH BEACH BUSINESS ASSOCIATION LUNCHEON Noon-1 p.m. The North Beach Community Association is looking to band together with other businesses from around the neighborhood in an effort to give the business community a chance to have a say in the future of North Beach. Join the Association for lunch on the patio at OC Fresca to network and discus topics of focus for the coming months. OC Fresca, 1814 North El Camino Real, San Clemente. memberplanet.com. TOPS (TAKE OFF POUNDS SENSIBLY) 9:30-10:30 a.m. TOPS is an affordable nonprofit weight loss program founded in 1948. Rather than diets and selling food plans, TOPS offers healthful changes you can live with, plus friendship, encouragement and accountability. San Clemente Presbyterian Church, 119 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente. 949.492.9428. sandyxlb7@gmail.com. CASA KIDS: STORY TIME 10-11 a.m. Casa Romantica welcomes children aged 1-7 for a picture book reading every Wednesday in the courtyard. A Q&A session and a dance will be held after each story. Admission is free. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org. LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7 p.m. Join Iva Lee’s for live music every Wednesday through Sunday. For the ultimate live music experience, be sure to reserve a lounge table on Fridays and Saturdays. Check their website for the latest scheduled performances. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. ivalees.com. WEDNESDAY NIGHT TRIVIA 7:30-9:30 p.m. Enjoy friendly competition and craft beers among friends during the BrewHouse’s weekly trivia night. Food trucks are on site during the trivia contest. The BrewHouse. 31896 Plaza Dr., Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.6181. thebrewhousesjc.com. sanclementetimes.com

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Health and Nutrition 101 by Gina Cousineau

Are You Starving Yet?

e are seven weeks into the New Year, and I am wondering how that “weight loss diet” is going. What I have learned since I started my nutrition career back in the 1980s is that most diets with the goal of “weight loss” are temporary, unsustainable, and cause more harm than good. Nothing is different today than it was 30 years ago, except we are much smarter and wiser when it comes to science and evidence-based practice in the nutrition realm and what drives health. But we are also more exposed to nutrition quackery and, as a society, more gullible to the “influencers” who talk us into diet approaches that have nothing to do with our overall well-being. I challenge you to ask yourself, why are you obsessed with losing weight? Did your doctor tell you that your health depended on it? Did you look in the mirror disgusted

by what you saw? Are you attempting once again to weigh what you did in college? Is that special event coming up, and you want to finally fit in that dress that has been hanging in your closet for years? As a young nutrition and fitness professional, I gave my clients what they wanted. The “no pain, no gain” mentality was alive and kicking, and I happily provided the workouts to make that happen. This, paired with calorie restriction but not much thought to food quality, moved the needle on the scale, but few were able to keep it there. Today, as HEALTH AND an older and much wiser NUTRITION 101 integrative and culinary By Gina Cousineau nutritionist, my approach & Samantha Blankenburg has completely shifted. If you want a weight loss diet, consult Dr. Google or look to social media for that diet trend/fad. On the other hand, if you want to prioritize your health, reduce and prevent your risk of diseases, and, more importantly, instill healthy habits for a lifetime, then I am your gal. The number on the scale will follow as needed because of these changes. Consider this. Why are you willing to go

Sudoku

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that and see where their education lies. Just because they are an M.D. doesn’t mean they’ve been educated in nutrition. Same goes for the highly popular fitness trainer; an internet certification in nutrition means nothing for your long-term health and wellness. Let’s really delve into your questions here each month. Email me with thoughts you would like to know more about, and allow me to help you decipher if it is an approach you should consider using science, evidence and logic above all else. Gina Cousineau, aka Mama G, sees clients in person and virtually out of her San Clemente office. Her extensive education with a BS in dietetics and MS in integrative and functional nutrition, chef training, and 30-plus years as a fitness professional, allow her to help clients with a practical nutrition and exercise approach for a long, healthy, independent life. Cousineau often partners with local fitness expert Samantha Blankenburg. You can reach her at mamag@mamagslifestyle.com, and on Instagram and Facebook @mamagslifestyle. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Pimento

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

on a diet for x-number of days to reach a weight loss goal, where you’re starving, deprived of foods you love, and literally counting down the days till you can go back to your old ways of eating, knowing full well that you will gain it all back again? It confuses me. Instead, why are you not willing to consider a lifestyle approach where you will enjoy every morsel you put in your mouth, won’t feel hungry, and know that you will improve your health in a positive way, with the weight on the scale following? I know the answer, and perhaps you do, too. Because of the influx of technology today, we have evolved into a crazed, fast-paced society where convenience is everything, and with the stroke of a key, whatever you desire can arrive within 24 hours, without you even having to step out the front door. You want to watch a show? No more waiting till Friday night for its regular time slot. And when it comes to food, within one hour, anything you like can be delivered to your doorstep to quell that craving. This is hugely problematic, to say the least. It is here where I challenge you to really consider what expertise your influencer has and why you believe them. If you have never clicked on their profile, take the time to do

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See the solution in next week’s issue.

imento is a 3-year-old cutie who is learning how to trust again. When he first arrived at the shelter, Pimento was very shy and scared. With the care of staff and volunteers, he is finally coming out of his shell. While he can still be a bit wary of strangers, he is extremely loving and affectionate once he gets to know you. Pimento would be a great dog for someone patient who will take the time to bond with him. If you would like to know more about Pimen-

Pimento. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

to, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with him at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC

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• San Clemente has started 2020 as a very hot market, with 163 active listings, 89 closed sales, and 111 Pending sales. • In early December, 2019, the San Clemente Miramar Theatre sold again, for $8 million, to an Arizona based company called Fortuitous Partners • Inventory is the hottest topic and Orange County has 52% less active listings compared to the same time in 2019

It’s time to expect more… Established 1963

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Lying About One’s Age on a Senior Dating Profile

his month, Arlene, a South Orange County resident who’s in her mid60s, shared a story about a man who contacted her on a senior dating website. His profile stated he was 71, just a few years older than she. Arlene emailed, “A guy wrote that he’d like to meet me at Starbucks. The location was near where I live, so I agreed. “His photo looked OK. He lives about 20 miles from me. I was sitting outside waiting for him, even though it was a bit chilly. When he walked up, he seemed much older than his photo. “He had seen a picture in my online profile of me on a cruise. He asked if I liked to cruise, to which I replied: ‘Yes, it’s my favorite thing to do.’ “He told me he’d been in the Navy and on many ships. I asked if it was during the Vietnam War; he told me it was during the Korean War. Since I’m a Baby Boomer, guys in my age group were in the Vietnam War, NOT the Korean War. “I reminded him that his profile stated he was 71. He told me he’d ‘fudged’ his age a bit; he was 81! I let him ramble on for an hour about himself, then told him I had many errands and had to leave.

“He had the nerve to contact me online again the next day. I told him we were not a match and that 81 was NOT 71! “These guys never stop trying.” I wondered why he lied to Arlene. I pondered what he may have thought; I’m only guessing, but perhaps it was something along this line. He saw her profile on the senior dating website. Her picture appealed to him; he found her attractive. She lived close enough to him that dating her would be convenient. He thought her ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 interests and hobbies By Tom Blake meshed with his. After all, he had been in the Navy onboard ships, and he noticed from her profile picture that she was on a cruise ship. Perhaps she had the characteristics he sought in a mate. From her profile, it appeared to him that they could be a good match. There was just one problem, of which he was oh, so aware—probably because

he had experienced it previously, more than once—he was too old for her. If he listed his true age, he wouldn’t get a date with Arlene, because she was more than 10 years younger. Maybe he was convinced if he could just get to meet Arlene face-to-face, she might think he was so wonderful that their 10-to-17-year age difference (whichever it was), wouldn’t matter. He may have thought he was being creative and didn’t think he was kidding himself. To improve his chances of getting a date with Arlene, he simply shaved 10 (or more) years off his true age, on his profile. Technically, he was lying. But he believed it was just a little white lie. Besides, he promised himself that he’d reveal his true age when they met, after, of course, he’d had a chance to show her what a potentially great catch he’d be. Is lying to get one’s foot in the door wrong? Perhaps he knew from previous experiences that the only way to get first dates with younger women was to lie on his profile. Again, I can’t say if this is how his thinking went, or if any of my speculation is true, but, I imagine, some of it is.

GUEST OPINION: Wellness & Prevention by Lauren Gallegos

in that room was there because they had been impacted by suicide in one way or another. Why was I so nervous to raise my hand? When I was 17 years old, a close family member attempted suicide. I was out with friends when I found out that they were in the ICU. I picked them up when they were discharged, because most of my family was angry and would not pick them up. After that, no one talked about it. It was as if everyone wanted to pretend it didn’t happen. Maybe I was hesitant to raise my hand because I still feel the stigma that was associated with a family member’s suicide attempt? The speakers on the panel went on to discuss how, after years of silence, they are just now telling their stories. One had been fearful to share because of their career in the public health field, another because of their culture, a third because of shame. We all have our reasons, but when we don’t talk about it, we contribute to the stigma that is taking the lives of too many. In Orange County, an average of 15 10- to 19-year-olds die by suicide each year, and the recent trends show that

this number is increasing. Orange County emergency rooms see an average of 900 visits each year for self-harm/ attempts or suicidal thoughts, according to the 2019 Conditions of the Children Report. Why is this happening, and more importantly, what can we do about it? Experts at the conference noted an increase in the number of youth with symptoms of depression and anxiety, youth substance use, lack of access to care, and lack of early screening as factors that lead to poor mental health and potentially self-harm WELLNESS AND and suicide. PREVENTION Annette Craig, By Lauren founder of With Hope, Gallegos The Amber Craig Memorial Foundation, said the most important thing we can teach our kids is to never keep secret any statements that a peer tells them about wanting to harm themselves. After her daughter died by suicide, several friends came forward and said that Amber had told them of her thoughts, but said not to tell anyone. Research shows that the most im-

Reducing the Stigma of Suicide

arlier this month, I attended the Addressing Youth Suicide conference presented by CHOC Children’s. Sadly, suicide is the secondleading cause of death for young people ages 10-34. At the conference, a panel member asked the audience to close their eyes and raise their hand to answer yes for the following questions: Do you know someone who has attempted suicide? Do you know someone who had died by suicide? Have you attempted suicide? I hesitantly raised my hand, and the speaker said, “Please raise your hand high.” What if someone didn’t have their eyes closed and they saw me? Everyone San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

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Christine Baumgartner, an Orange County dating and relationship coach, once told me, “When I work with my clients, I always insist they tell the truth about themselves, including their age. It’s very important not to lie.” Some senior singles say, if people lie about their age, anything they say might be suspect. I responded to Arlene: “He may have even been fudging a bit more. The Korean War was from 1950 to 1953. If he was, let’s say, 17, in 1950, that would make him approximately 87 now. If he was 17 in 1953, he’d be about 84 now. If he was older than 17 during the Korean War, he could be in his late 80s now.” Lying about one’s age isn’t recommended; the truth will emerge sooner or later. Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com.SC

PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

portant thing we can do in a family and community is to have open conversations about suicide. Talking to children or adults about suicide will not cause them to attempt suicide; in fact, talking openly prevents suicide. If you or someone you know is considering suicide or shows the signs listed above, please call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1.800.273.8255 or text HELLO to 741741 or call 911. The Wellness & Prevention Center will host a screening of the documentary film The S Word, followed by a panel discussion on suicide and mental health, on Monday, Feb. 24 at 6:30 p.m. at San Clemente High School’s Little Theater. Join us and help to reduce stigma in our community. Lauren Gallegos is the community prevention director at the Wellness & Prevention Center. She leads the Wellness & Prevention Coalition and cares deeply about the mental health of fellow community members. You can reach Lauren at lauren@wpc-oc.org. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

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SC LIVING CoastLines by Fred Swegles

Home, Healthy from an Unforgettable Stranding at Sea

fter some 20 cruises to ports around the world over the past 25 years, San Clemente retirees Craig and Ruth Strickland found themselves afloat in drama, on a dream cruise that became a veritable cruise to nowhere. They were among 1,455 passengers and 802 crew members aboard Holland America Line’s floating hotel, the Westerdam, stranded at sea for 13 days over worldwide fears that the ship might have picked up China’s dreaded coronavirus. “The first 14 days went off without a hitch,” Craig reported via email. “We did see Thailand, Cambodia and four ports in Vietnam before everything went south.” Everyone aboard was reported to be healthy. But local port authorities’ fears of coronavirus forced the ship to shorten scheduled stays in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Meanwhile, the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, Guam and Thailand all refused to let the Westerdam land. Finally, Cambodia offered to assist. “My wife Ruth and I chose this cruise because we had been on another Holland America cruise to Japan last year and were eager to see more of that country, plus other countries in that region,” Craig said via email. “This particular itinerary— Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea and Japan— was really apCOASTLINES pealing to us.” By Fred Swegles Home now, the Stricklands aren’t accepting visitors just yet. They’ve placed themselves into a voluntary 14-day quarantine upon learning that a passenger from the Westerdam has tested positive for coronavirus. “My wife and I, anticipating a call from the health agency, put ourselves on voluntary house quarantine,” Craig said. They knew, before departure from Singapore, that there could be a glitch. “Our big concern before we headed out was that the political situation and protests in Hong Kong would make for a difficult port visit,” Craig said. “There were no protests at all when we did visit, but Hong Kong did indeed prove to be the problematic port. The same day we visited, Feb. 1, was the day that a passenger from the Diamond Princess was found positive for the coronavirus in a Hong Kong hospital. The increasingly bad news about that ship put us immediately on the radar.”

HOW DRAMA UNFOLDED Q&A with Craig Strickland How did you learn something was amiss? The captain announced some itinerary changes. Our final port would no longer be Shanghai, but Yokohama (Tokyo). Our Hong Kong visit would be cut from an overnight to one day. The coronavirus situation had deteriorated badly by that time, with multiple new countries having reported cases within a few days.

Was the ship healthy? The ship made regular announcements that there was no

San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

What about Shanghai, China, your original intended final port? That was the only instance where we denied to port!

How did passengers react? Most passengers rolled with the massive changes, some were very nervous, and a few were grumps. The crew was wonderful and handled everything very professionally.

What did you do the whole time? Made the most of it. The cruise staff still put on wonderful entertainment, all areas of the ship were open, and the food was nonstop. They gave free pours of wine at dinner, gave everyone free Internet and free use of the ships’ telephones.

How did it feel to finally step ashore? It was a relief to be on land again, but still a bit worrisome, since Cambodia is a third-world country. The prime minister set his helicopter down on the port immediately next to the ship and made a big show of hugging passengers and handing out flowers as we disembarked. He then had his military shut off traffic in the city, as we were driven in buses directly onto the runway of the small airport for chartered flights to the capital, Phnom Penh. We were grateful, but think it was largely a political move on the PM’s part to show support to his ally, China.

Craig and Ruth Strickland posted this photo from Taiwan on Feb. 4, reporting that “the coronavirus is creating quite a drama here. They shortened our stay in Hong Kong to one night, but then Manila found out we were in Hong Kong and wouldn’t let our ship in. Now Taiwan is kicking us out after only one night, after a Chinese ship which docked next to us was found to have a coronavirus victim.” Photo: Courtesy of Craig Strickland

coronavirus on board.

And no country would accept you? We were first declined by Manila, which was to be a couple of days after Hong Kong. Taiwan declined our first port, then let us in at Kaohsiung, which was to be an overnight, but they ordered us away early the next morning.

And then? We set sail for Ishigaki, Japan, but at the last minute were declined on the basis that the port was too small and couldn’t handle processing us all for health screening. So it was onward to Naha, Okinawa (Japan). In short order, we heard that both South Korea and Japan had decided “no,” as well. The State Department got involved and inquired over landing at the U.S. territory, Guam. But the acting governor gave us a thumbs-down.

Where did that leave you? We headed back to Thailand and had gotten a preliminary OK, then saw press reports that their health minister had decided against it. We proceeded toward Laem Chabang, the Bangkok port, until a Thai warship began escorting us. We finally sailed for Sihanoukville, Cambodia, which allowed us to port.

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What are the financial and emotional outcomes? I’m sure Holland America took a big hit. They were very generous with us. They refunded everyone the 14-day cruise, then gave each passenger a credit for another full 14-day cruise, and are paying for all flights home.

What’s next? We flew out of Phnom Penh to South Korea, then Atlanta, then John Wayne. We were some of the last passengers to get out. As we were getting on our plane, the news came in that a passenger from our ship was found positive for the virus. As of this writing, Holland America has 400 hotel rooms in Phnom Penh filled with passengers awaiting coronavirus screenings. Some 200 more—plus 700 or so crew—are all still on the ship at the Sihanoukville port. EDITOR’S NOTE: As of Wednesday, Feb. 19, news outlets reported that the last of the Westerdam passengers had tested negative for the virus and had been allowed to disembark and travel home from Cambodia. More than 740 crew members were still on board while their testing was being completed.

The moral of the story? To be a happy traveler, you have to be flexible. As for us, we love Holland America and booked another cruise with them while aboard the Westerdam. Fred Swegles is a longtime San Clemente resident with nearly five decades of reporting experience in the city. Fred can be reached at fswegles@picketfencemedia.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

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SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

2020 San Clemente High School Spring Sports Preview CIF-SS Division 1. San Clemente will look to keep up that stretch of success—14 titles in the past 21 years, including a top-two finish in each of those 21 years—with one of the deepest groups the Tritons have had. San Clemente will be led by senior standouts in UC San Diego-bound Wolf Beeuwsaert and Pepperdine-bound Eli Crane. Beeuwsaert is a force in the middle, and Crane, an extremely versatile player, will move from the middle to the outside pin positions. Seniors Bjorn Johansson on the outside and Brodyn Gruszczynski at setter will make strong impacts. Senior middle blocker Micah Regalado and junior libero Sean Hoffmeister will also see plenty of time. San Clemente opens at the Tesoro tournament on Saturday, Feb. 22, hosts Newport Harbor on Tuesday Feb. 25 and starts league at Aliso Niguel on March 19.

For in-game updates, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School sports programs, follow us on Twitter @ SouthOCSports BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

he busiest portion of the CIF-SS sports calendar is upon us as the spring sports season kicks off across Southern California. San Clemente has 12 teams competing in the spring season, and all of them can expect some level of success. Let’s check in and see how each group of Tritons will fare in 2020:

BASEBALL The San Clemente baseball team is a senior-heavy group heading into 2020. Last season, the Tritons were once again strong in nonleague play, but whether it’s the South Coast League or the Sea View League, this South County conference showcases some of the most competitive baseball in Southern California. Seniors dominated the pitching staff last season, so San Clemente will need some new arms to step up. One of those arms could be Loyola Marymount signee Kolby Schiffer. San Clemente will be stronger with the bats, as juniors led the way in the hitting department last season. Senior Trenton Brail led the Tritons in runs last season with 17 and added seven RBI on 21 hits with four doubles and a home run. Senior J.P. Hefft was second in runs last season with 16, adding eight RBI on 26 hits with seven doubles and a triple. San Clemente is 1-1 in the early season and continues with road games at Sonora on Thursday, Feb. 20 and El Toro on March 3. The Tritons open league at league champion Aliso Niguel on March 11 and host San Juan Hills on March 13. San Clemente plays a doubleheader at Dana Hills on April 18.

The San Clemente baseball team is experienced at the bat with plenty of seniors, but the Tritons will need new arms to step up in the pitching rotation. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

her military family, is one of the top-rated catchers in the country in the 2021 class. Blaine is a member of the USA Softball U-17 Women’s National Team and won gold at the 2019 Pan American Games. Senior Melinda Cratty is another player to watch as a signee to Bethany College. San Clemente is 1-1 on the season and hosts San Juan Hills on Thursday, Feb. 20. The Tritons host rival Dana Hills on March 5 and open league at home against Tesoro on March 24.

BOYS VOLLEYBALL By most measures, last season was tremendous for the San Clemente boys volleyball team, as the Tritons split the South Coast League championship and won a thrilling Division 1 playoff opener. However, for the Tritons’ success, their reward was a matchup with the juggernaut Newport Harbor, the No. 1 overall seed and eventual Division 1 and SoCal Regional champion. Such is the life for a strong team in

San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

The San Clemente boys golf team took a small dip in 2019 after a stellar 2018. In 2018, the Tritons finished fourth at the CIF-SS South Coast Division Championships at Talega Golf Club and saw then-junior Alex Pak make a run to fourth place at the CIF State Championship. In 2019, San Clemente finished in sixth at the CIF-SS South Coast Division Championships at Talega, and only one player, then-junior and University of San Diego signee Drayton Joseph, played in the CIFSS Southern Individual Regional. Joseph finished two strokes off the cut line and did not advance. At the division championships, Pak, James Bell and Ethan Greathouse each posted the low score for San Clemente at 75. San Clemente will need new names to step up as the Tritons push to get back on top.

BOYS LACROSSE

SOFTBALL A surprise addition could put the San Clemente softball team on a track for deeper success than last season. The Tritons were strong in 2019 with a Sea View League championship and a one-run loss to eventual champion Great Oak in the second round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. This season, San Clemente drops down to Division 2, but just as the Tritons girls basketball team has benefited from such a division shift, the softball Tritons get the infusion of Auburn-committed junior Jessie Blaine. Blaine, who moved to San Clemente with

BOYS GOLF

The San Clemente boys volleyball team is as deep as it has ever been, which will give the Tritons plenty of options as they compete once again for a league title and a deep playoff run. Photo: Zach Cavanagh Page 16

Graduation hit the San Clemente boys lacrosse team hard after last season’s South Coast League co-championship, and the Tritons will enter their first full CIF-SS participation season with a young group. Lacrosse had been a CIF-SS sponsored sport for several years, but with team membership not high enough, the local U.S. Lacrosse chapters in Orange and Los Angeles counties organized playoffs with the county champions meeting for the “Southern Section” title. Now, with team membership finally crossing the necessary threshold and the (Cont. on page 18) sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS (Cont. from page 16) proper votes applied, lacrosse is an official CIF-SS organized sport. That means multiple divisions, weekly polls and official CIF-SS playoffs. San Clemente was placed into Division 1 and will open the season at Mater Dei on February 22. The Tritons host Division 2 Dana Hills on Feb. 24 and Division 1 No. 3 Foothill on Thursday, Feb. 27. San Clemente plays at South Coast League co-champion Trabuco Hills on March 31 and hosts the Mustangs on April 24.

prove their CIF-SS postseason performance. Each has made the final CIF-SS bracket in their careers, but neither has won a match in the round of 32 or after a bye in the round of 16. San Clemente starts the season at home on Thursday, Feb. 20 against Woodbridge and opens league play by hosting Tesoro on March 19.

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

GIRLS LACROSSE For its first season of full CIF-SS competition, the San Clemente girls lacrosse team is strong. The Tritons were ranked No. 8 in Division 1 in the first-ever CIF-SS girls lacrosse preseason poll, and while San Clemente loses some impact seniors, the Tritons are deserving of the ranking with a good crop of experienced, young players. Junior Stolie Erickson was one goal off the team-leading pace last season as a sophomore with 45 goals in 17 games. Erickson was also second on the team in points. Paige Campbell will be the senior leader for San Clemente. Campbell is a leading defensive returner for the Tritons with 26 ground balls last season and the go-to on faceoffs. Campbell also added 26 goals with two assists. Makena Coury is another offensive player to watch. As a sophomore, Coury scored 20 goals and was second on the team with 10 assists. San Clemente opens the season by hosting Edison on Tuesday, Feb. 25 and starts league play by hosting Aliso Niguel on March 19.

COMPETITIVE SPORT CHEER Entering its second season of CIF-SS competition, the San Clemente competitive cheer program is in strong standing. The Tritons finished fourth in Division 2AA at the CIF-SS traditional competitive cheer championships in January and competed in the National High School Cheerleading Championships in Orlando earlier in February. San Clemente also had its first cheer signee in Maryville-bound senior Ryan Leff. Leff is a leader for the competitive sport cheer, or STUNT, group as a main base and tumbler. The Tritons return all 15 members of their inaugural team and have a strong nucleus of juniors. Grace Hartanov will make an impact as a main base, side base and tumbler alongside backspot and tumbler Tori Ghyzel. New juniors Malia McCraig and Liv Weilbaecher are also potential game-changers for coach Amber Smith-Stanco. San Clemente opens its home schedule with a doubleheader against Fullerton on March 19. The Tritons’ toughest challenge will come against Costa Mesa on March 25.

BOYS SWIMMING Seniors were at the forefront for the San San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

The San Clemente lacrosse teams enter their first season of full CIF-SS competition, as the sport has been separated into proper divisions with full playoffs to come at season’s end for the first official section championship. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Clemente boys swimming team last season. Life was harder for the Tritons in the South Coast League, but a handful of strong swimmers were able to shine through. San Clemente qualified only one entry to the CIF-SS Finals, and only one swimmer returns from that 200-yard medley relay team. Junior Hayden Kahn, a key water polo player for the Tritons, comes back from that group. Junior Luke Makshanoff had the highest individual league finish of any of the San Clemente returners. Makshanoff finished fourth in the 200-yard freestyle and finished 25th in the event at the CIF-SS preliminaries. Makshanoff swam on the 400-yard freestyle relay team with Biola-bound Colin Snyder. Pepperdine water polo signee Christian Hosea returns, along with senior Jeffery Hoss and juniors Spencer Herbert and Timo Paisley.

GIRLS SWIMMING Last season, the San Clemente girls swimming team moved up to the South Coast League after winning its first league title in 15 years in the Sea View League in 2018. The move meant stronger competition, and the Tritons certainly felt that. However, several standout swimmers gained valuable experience to move into this season. Stella Copeland could be the Tritons’ leader as a junior. Copeland captured San Clemente’s lone league championship as a sophomore with a win in the 500-yard

freestyle. Copeland posted an eighth-place finish in the 500-yard freestyle at the CIF-SS Division 1 Finals, and she also earned a 12thplace finish in the 200-yard freestyle. Boise State-bound Katie Faris was the only other Triton to qualify for the CIF-SS Finals last season. As a junior, Faris won a swim-off for the final spot in the 100-yard freestyle field and also finished 14th in the 50-yard freestyle. Junior Kelsie Yamano and water polo stars senior Grace Pelkey and juniors Lang Csira and Alexandria Higginson can also make impacts with the swimming Tritons. Pelkey will play water polo at UC Davis next year.

BOYS TENNIS Another year brought another league title for the San Clemente boys tennis team last season, and with two standout seniors, the Tritons are poised to continue their success. Last season, San Clemente captured its ninth straight South Coast League championship and ran its league match winning streak to 76 matches. At the top for the Tritons are two highly successful seniors in Corey Angeli and Griffen Wolfe. Wolfe has won back-to-back South Coast League singles titles, and after winning the league doubles title as a sophomore, Angeli faced Wolfe in the league singles final last season. Angeli and Wolfe will both look to im-

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While the San Clemente boys track and field team doesn’t have one singular superstar, the Tritons are more than competitive across the board. San Clemente’s strongest group is in distance running, where the back-to-back league champion cross country team comes in from the fall. Seniors Caleb Mettler and Nathan Kuhn lead a group that also includes junior Brodey Horspool and sophomore Hayden Beauchemin. In the sprints, junior football star James Bohls is a focus in the 100- and 200-meters. Bohls could be joined by other football players in the 4x100-meter relay. The Tritons have a strong jumping group as well. Senior Marcus Zanzonico and junior Egan Smith return after CIF-SS qualification in the high jump last season. Zanzonico made the CIF-SS Finals as a sophomore. Seniors Lance Eades and Seth Gould could break through in the throws and hurdles, respectively. San Clemente opens the season on Wednesday, Feb. 26 against Huntington Beach and starts league play at Tesoro on March 12.

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD The highlight of the San Clemente girls track and field team will again be in the distance running as senior Hana Catsimanes takes her final laps as a Triton. The Wake Forest-bound Catsimanes is coming off a CIF-SS Division 1 cross country championship in the fall and has an eye on repeating her CIF-SS Division 1 3,200-meter championship from last season. Catsimanes was second at CIF-SS Masters and 20th at State in the 3,200 last season. San Clemente also has some youth that can step up and possibly lead the Tritons to higher plateaus. Junior Natalie Vissman is the Tritons’ only other returning Sea View League champion. Vissman grabbed the high jump league title a sophomore. Kaitlyn Harsey and Sierra Adams both took second place in league as sophomores in the discus and pole vault, respectively. Back on the oval, Caroline Hawkes returns as a sophomore after second-place league finishes as a freshman in the 200- and 400-meters. Seniors who could step up in sprints are Gillian Paredes and Anelalani Breshers. Senior Camryn Harrell is strong in the middle distances. San Clemente hosts the Triton Invitational on March 21 and Sea View League Finals on May 1. SC sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Triton Report BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

For in-game updates, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports As the spring sports season begins, the winter sports playoffs rage on. San Clemente entered the playoffs will all five of its winter sports teams competing, but only two remained as of press time on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Let’s check in on the Triton playoff teams:

No. 1 Seed Girls Basketball Advances After First-Round Bye After the regular season ended, San Clemente girls basketball coach Kerri Husbands was slightly concerned the Tritons could be rusty by the time the playoffs began. With the way the South Coast League schedule works, one team has a bye each league game day, while the other four teams play. After San Clemente (25-3) won its first league title since 2015 on Feb. 3, the Tritons’ bye came on the final game day of the regular season. For its league title and strong regular season, San Clemente earned the No. 1 seed in Division 2A and a bye in the first round of the playoffs. This mean the Tritons would go 12 days between games. When San Clemente finally hosted Culver City in the second round on Feb. 15, the worry of rust faded away as the Tritons were just as sharp as ever. San Clemente led, 42-21, at halftime and cruised to the 80-47 win and advanced to the CIF-SS quarterfinals. Ella Gardiner led the way with 26 points, Jessie Blaine scored 20 points, Jolie Johnson added 16 points, and Kyra Stewart scored 13 points. San Clemente played at Summit High School in Fontana on Wednesday, Feb. 19, but results were not available at press time. If the Tritons advanced, they would host Burroughs of Burbank or play at Whittier Christian in the semifinals on Saturday, Feb. 22. San Clemente has not advanced to the CIF-SS semifinals since 2008. This season is Tritons’ second trip to the quarterfinals in three seasons, but the 2018 quarterfinal appearance was San Clemente’s first since San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

The San Clemente girls basketball team advanced to its second CIF-SS quarterfinal in three seasons and only its second since 2008, when the Tritons made the CIF-SS semifinals. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

that 2008 semifinal run.

Girls Water Polo Advances to Third Straight Semifinal The San Clemente girls water polo team reached the same threshold as it has the past three seasons. The South Coast League champion Tritons (16-13) dominated Los Osos, 15-3, in their CIF-SS Division 2 opener on Feb. 12 at San Juan Hills High School and continued their run with a 12-8 win over Schurr on Feb. 15 at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. No. 3 seed San Clemente took on No. 2 seed Agoura in the Division 2 semifinals on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at the William Woollett Jr. Aquatics Center in Irvine, but results were not available at press time. Through two rounds of the playoffs, Grace Pelkey led the Tritons with six goals and added four assists. Aidan Flynn scored five goals and added six assists. Adrina Daniel and Kendall Patrick each scored four goals. Alanna Sayer made nine total saves. If San Clemente advanced to its second straight CIF-SS Final, the Tritons would play the winner of Harvard-Westlake and Mira Costa at the Woollett Aquatics Center on Saturday, Feb. 22. In 2018, San Clemente lost to Santa Barbara in the Division 2 semifinals. In 2019,

San Clemente avenged its 2018 loss by beating Santa Barbara in the semifinals to advance to the Division 2 Final against Santa Margarita. The Tritons were the Division 2 runner-up last season.

No. 1 Seed Boys Soccer Upset in Stunning Shootout The San Clemente boys soccer team had played to its strengths in the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs. Defense had been at the forefront of the Tritons’ efforts all season. San Clemente (21-2-3) scored its 19th shutout of the season in the first round, as the Tritons defeated Katella, 3-0, on Feb. 12. Jovanni Gomez, Nolan Grush and Niko Kaczmarczyk each scored goals, and goalkeeper Carter Fann recorded the clean sheet. In the second round, No. 1 seed San Clemente added to its accolades with its 20th shutout of the season on the road at University. Even so, it proved the end of the road for the defending Division 1 and SoCal Regional champion Tritons. San Clemente battled University through a scoreless regulation, two overtime periods and deep into a shootout, but the Trojans prevailed over the Tritons in the penalty-kick tiebreaker, 7-6, to knock out San Clemente and advance to

Page 20

the CIF-SS quarterfinals. It was only the second loss of the season for San Clemente, with the first coming in a 1-0 decision to Division 1 No. 3 seed Palos Verdes earlier this season. In two losses this season, the Tritons only conceded one goal total. According to season stats on MaxPreps, Fann earned a total of 10 shutouts, and Connor Stoll earned eight shutouts.

CIF-SS Playoff Roundup The San Clemente boys basketball team (17-13) battled its way to make the playoffs and battled in the first round of the Division 2A playoffs, but the Tritons did not advance in a 49-42 loss at Mira Costa on Feb. 12. San Clemente finished third in the South Coast League this season. San Clemente trailed by three to open the fourth quarter before Mira Costa went on an 11-0 run to seal the outcome. Max Rumph led San Clemente with 13 points, and Jack Carroll scored eight points. The San Clemente girls soccer team (12-6-4) was hit hard in the Division 1 first round, as the Tritons lost at Santiago of Corona, 4-0. Rylie McLeish made three saves for San Clemente. The Tritons finished third in the South Coast League this season. SC sanclementetimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON MARCH 5, 2020 PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD BY THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: 1001 S. El Camino Real – Amendment to Conditional Use Permit 19-496 – Zebra House Coffee Expansion A request to amend a previously approved Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow the expansion of an existing drive-through coffee shop (Zebra House Coffee located in Suite A) into the adjacent Suite B. The expanded coffee shop would be 2,293 sq. ft. Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Class 1: Existing Facilities). 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa – Special Activities Permit 19-429 - American Crown Circus Event A request to operate a 5-day circus event at the San Clemente Outlets from March 26, 2020 to March 30, 2020. Setup is on March 24 and 25, and breakdown is on March 31. The event will operate between the hours of 5:30pm and 9pm, daily, and between 3:30pm and 9pm on Sunday. Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Class 1: Existing Facilities) and Section 15311 (Class 11: Accessory Structures). These applications are on file at the City of San Clemente Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, and are available for public inspection and comment by contacting (949) 361-6184. If you challenge these projects in court you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearings. Notice is further given that said public hearings will be conducted by the City of San Clemente Zoning Administrator and held on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearings or to provide written communication to the Zoning Administrator to express their opinion for or against the requests. For further details, please call or visit the office of the City of San Clemente Zoning Administrator at the Community Development Department where information is available for public inspection. Zoning Administrator PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON MARCH 5, 2020 PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD BY THE ZONING ADMINISTRATOR OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: 221 Avenida Del Mar A – Minor Conditional Use Permit 19-470 – Pronto Deli A request to consider the sale of beer and wine for off-site consumption at a new specialty Italian food store. The site is located in the Downtown Mixed Use Zone within the Architectural, Central Business, and Coastal Zone Overlay San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

opinion for or against the requests.

Districts (MU3.0-A-CB-CZ). Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Class 1: Existing Facilities). 112 East Escalones – Minor Exception Permit 19-410/Staff Waiver of Minor Architectural Permit 19-409 – Carr Addition A request to consider approximately 250 square feet of single-story additions to a legal nonconforming single family home. The addition proposes to continue an existing 3 foot side yard setback where 5 feet is required. The property is zoned Residential Medium (RM). Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Class 1: Existing Facilities). 1633 Calle Las Bolas – Tentative Parcel Map 20-019 – Las Bolas Condos A request for a condominium subdivision of a lot for a new two unit apartment building, for individual ownership. The site is zoned Residential Low Zoning and resides within the Coastal Zone Overlay District (RL-CZ). Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 (Class 15: Minor Land Divisions). 1631 Calle Las Bolas – Tentative Parcel Map 20-020 – Las Bolas Condos A request for a condominium subdivision of a lot for a new two unit apartment building, for individual ownership. The site is zoned Residential Low Zoning and resides within the Coastal Zone Overlay District (RL-CZ). Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 (Class 15: Minor Land Divisions). 205 West Paseo De Cristobal – Minor Exception Permit 19-445/Minor Architectural Permit 19-446 – Moran Addition A request to consider a 788 sq. ft. 2nd story addition, 175 sq. ft. second-story deck, and 133 sq. ft. rooftop deck to a legal nonconforming single family home. The addition proposes to continue 5 foot side yard setback where 6 feet is required. The property is zoned Residential Low Zoning District and resides within the Coastal Zone Overlay District (RL-CZ). Staff recommends that the project be found categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 (Class 1: Existing Facilities).

For further details, please call or visit the office of the City of San Clemente Zoning Administrator at the Community Development Department where information is available for public inspection. Zoning Administrator PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 20FL000207 To All Interested Persons: Daniel Cucuiat and Melissa Cucuiat on behalf of Joseph Daniel Cucuiat, a minor, filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Joseph Daniel Cucuiat PROPOSED NAME A. Giuseppe Daniel Cucuiat The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing Date: 05/08/2020 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: W10 Window: 44. The address of the court is West Justice Center, 8141 13th Street, Westminster, CA 926834593. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: February 10, 2020 JUDGE LON F. HURWITZ, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times February 20, 27, March 5, 12, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE Date of Sale: 02/28/2020 Time of Sale: 10:00am Place of Sale: FAM Vans: 10870 Kalama River Ave, Fountain Valley, CA 92708 2007 GMC C7500 Van VIN# 1GDJ7C1347F902048 Lic# 59046C2 Exp: 10/31/2017 PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE INVITING ELECTRONIC BIDS CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE WATER RECLAMATION PLANT SECURITY GATES (CONTRACT ‘A’) PROJECT NO. 18203

These applications are on file at the City of San Clemente Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, and are available for public inspection and comment by contacting (949) 361-6184. If you challenge these projects in court you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearings.

Bids shall be submitted electronically through the City’s electronic procurement system (PlanetBids) at: https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal. cfm?CompanyID=28939 Bids must be received by no later than 2:00 p.m. on March 17, 2020. All bids received after that time will be returned to the Bidder, as they will be deemed disqualified. Only electronic bids submitted through PlanetBids will be accepted. Bid tabulations will be available on PlanetBids immediately following the bid closing.

Notice is further given that said public hearings will be conducted by the City of San Clemente Zoning Administrator and held on Thursday, March 5, 2020 at 3:00 p.m. at the Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearings or to provide written communication to the Zoning Administrator to express their

Bidders must complete line items information (PlanetBids Line Item Tab), and attach a paper Bid Form, completed in full and signed (PlanetBids Attachments Tab). In addition the Bidder shall attach Subcontractor(s) Listing, Experience Form, Bid Security, and all other documents required herein (PlanetBids Attachments Tab). The system will not accept a bid for which any required information is missing.

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The work to be done consists of furnishing all materials, equipment, tools, labor and incidentals as required by the plans, specifications and contract documents for the CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE WATER RECLAMATION PLANT SECURITY GATES (PROJECT NO. 18203), in the City of San Clemente, California. Reference is hereby made to these Specifications for further particulars, and same are by such reference incorporated herein and made a part thereof, the same as though fully set forth hereunder. Specifications and contract documents are posted in the City of San Clemente PlanetBids System Vendor Portal website at: https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal. cfm?CompanyID=28939 All bidders must first register as a vendor on the City of San Clemente PlanetBids System website to participate in a bid or to be added to prospective bidders list. The contract does call for monthly progress payments based upon the engineer’s estimate of the percentage of work completed. The City will retain 5% of each progress payment as security for completion of the balance of the work. At the request and expense of the successful bidder, the City will pay amounts so retained upon compliance with the requirements of Government Code Section 14402 and the provisions of the contract documents pertaining to “substitution of securities.” NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations, in accordance with Section 1770 of the California State Labor Code and in accordance with the terms of the Southern California Master Labor Agreement, has heretofore established a prevailing rate of per diem wages to be paid in the construction of the above entitled work. The said wage rates are herein referred to and adopted in this Notice as though fully set forth herein, and said scale is made a part of this Notice by reference. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1771.1, no contractor or sub-contractor may be listed on a bid proposal for a public works project submitted on or after March 1, 2015 unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations. Furthermore, all bidders and contractors are hereby notified that no contractor or sub-contractor may be awarded a contract for public work on a public project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1771.4, all bidders are hereby notified that this project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. No bid will be accepted from a contractor who has not been licensed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9, Division III of the Business and Professions Code, State of California. Bidder shall possess a Class “A” or “B” California State Contracting License in good standing. Bidder shall have successfully completed a minimum of 3 verifiable Security Gate installations including ornamental fencing, gates and motorized gate operators, electrical power and controls with a minimum valuation of $200,000 in the past 5 years. The bidder, by submitting its electronic bid, agrees to and certifies under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of California, that the certification, forms and affidavits submitted as part of this bid are true and correct. The City of San Clemente reserves the right to reject any or all bids. To be published: and:

February 13, 2020 February 20, 2020 ________________________ David T. Rebensdorf Utilities Director

A NON-MANDATORY pre-bid meeting will be held to inspect the site and discuss the work to be done and the Contractor’s responsibilities. The City’s representatives will be available to address ques sanclementetimes.com

PUBLIC NOTICES tions. The meeting will be held at the City of San Clemente Water Reclamation Plant, 380 Avenida Pico, San Clemente, CA 92672 on February 27, 2020, at 10:00 a.m., to be followed with a site visit. PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206566573 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MIKE BARNETT DESIGN 3801 S. ROSS STREET, APT D SANTA ANA, CA 92707 Full Name of Registrant(s): MICHAEL BARNETT 3801 S. ROSS STREET, APT D SANTA ANA, CA 92707 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A. /s/MICHAEL BARNETT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/30/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times February 13, 20, 27, March 5, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206565669 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TMS HIGH PERFORMANCE SALES 647 CAMINO DE LOS MARES SAN CLEMENTE CA 92673 Full Name of Registrant(s): PERFORMANCE SALES & MARKETING LLC 28082 LAS BRISAS DEL MAR SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CA 92675 This business is conducted by a CA limited liability company. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/12/2019. /s/PERFORMANCE SALES & MARKETING LLC, CARY SERKLEW, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/22/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times February 13, 20, 27, March 5, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206566643 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: JAMES LOUDSPEAKER 991 CALLE AMANECER SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 Full Name of Registrant(s): DANA INNOVATIONS 991 CALLE AMANECER SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 This business is conducted by a CA corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/02/2020. /s/DANA INNOVATIONS, PATRICK MCGAUGHAN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/30/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times February 6, 13, 20, 27, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206565445 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ELITE MED LISTINGS 32240 PASEO ADELANTO, D-2 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CA 92675 San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

Full Name of Registrant(s): ELITE LOCAL LISTINGS 32240 PASEO ADELANTO, D-2 SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO CA 92675 This business is conducted by a CA corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 02/01/2015. ELITE LOCAL LISTINGS /s/ ANGELA CHATTERFIELD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/21/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times January 30, February 6, 13, 20, 2020

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PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206565950 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MSA DEPUTY INSPECTION 106 EAST EL PORTAL SAN CLEMENTE CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): MICHAEL SHANE ANDERSON 106 EAST EL PORTAL SAN CLEMENTE CA 92672 This business is conducted by an individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 12/22/2000. /s/MICHAEL ANDERSON This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/24/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times January 30, February 6, 13, 20, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206567986 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TIER 1 ASSOCIATES 24338 EL TORO #E123 LAGUNA WOODS CA 92637 Full Name of Registrant(s): T1A INC. 24338 EL TORO #E123 LAGUNA WOODS CA 92637 This business is conducted by CA corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A /s/T1A INC./DENNIS BAGLAMA, PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 02/13/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times February 20, 27, March 5, 12, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206566624 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1A.THE ORANGE MAGAZINE 1B. SAN CLEMENTE TIMES 1C. GARRETT MEDIA GROUP Full Name of Registrant(s): SAN CLEMENTE TIMES LLC 34932 CALLE DEL SOL STE. B CAPISTRANO BEACH CA 92624 This business is conducted by DE limited liability company. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/01/2006 /s/SAN CLEMENTE TIMES LLC/NORB GARRETT, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 01/30/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times February 13, 20, 27, March 5, 2020

Schmid’s Fine Chocolates 99 Avenida del Mar, 949.369.1052 schmidschocolate.com

DENTISTS Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, drericjohnson.com Shoreline Dental Studio/ Kristen Ritzau DDS, Dr. Colby Livingston 122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.498.4110, shorelinedentalstudio.com

DIGITAL MARKETING CONSULTING/SERVICES Kelli Murrow Consulting www.kellimurrow.com 949.573.7725

ELECTRICAL Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, arcadiaelectric.com Braker Electric 949-291-5812 Lic# 719056 Insured

JEWELRY BUCKLEY & CO. 415 E. Avenida Pico #D 949.218.1184, BuckleyJewelry.com

MUSIC LESSONS Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556, danmans.com

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad at sanclementetimes.com

GARAGE SALES Buy • Consign • Sell

949.395.5681 (24 hours) Available 7 days a week. We also offer professional appraisals, auction services, restoration and shipping.

CASH SAME DAY Dee Coleman, CEO/Owner 2485 S. El Camino Real San Clemente Web: classicautosalesoc.com Email: classicautosalesoc@gmail.com

100% positive EBAY Seller since 2001!

PROSTHODONTICS Hamilton Le, D.M.D., F.A.C.P. 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K 949.361.4867 (GUMS) moranperio.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

RESTAURANTS Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

SALONS Salon Bleu 207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, scsalonbleu.com

FOUR HOUSEHOLD GARAGE SALE February 22nd & 23rd, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. 26311 Calle Roberto, San Juan Capistrano. Items include: furniture, air hockey table, tools, children’s items, clothes, books, fabrics, dishes and much more. GARAGE SALE SATURDAY, FEB. 22 8:00 am to 12:00 am Moving/Downsizing. Lots of stuff: Furniture, Sports gear, Floral (loose pieces), Household items, you name it. 219 Calle Serena, San Clemente, CA GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.

HELP WANTED HELP WANTED: MARKETING REP We are seeking an immediate hire for a part-time street team marketing representative. Our street team is responsible for opening dialogue with local businesses and maintaining a relationship in order to develop a route list of places that we can display our concert schedules at. Please email in a basic resume to Luna luna@thecoachhouse.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), moranperio.com

PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, atozleakdetection.com Bill Metzger Plumbing 1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, billmetzerplumbing.com

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SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

Page 25

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SC San Clemente

SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Hobie’s Next Generation Arrives DP’s Ian Gottron and the iconic surfboard brand are making some magic BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

ntil now, Dana Point stylist Ian Gottron’s biggest claim to fame was that he had a donut named after him. Specifically, the “Gato-San” at Nikki’s Cafe. Well, Gato-San just hit the jackpot. Joining the distinguished surf team at Hobie, he’s going to be bringing his youthful energy, unique perspectives and some serious homegrown talent to the squad. “We’re really stoked to be working with Ian,” Hobie’s Kris Carlow said when San Clemente Times caught up with him earlier this week. “It’s really important for us to support local surfers and put our energy into our community. With our shops in Dana Point and San Clemente, our roots have always been here, and it’s important to continue that into the future. And Ian definitely represents that next generation.” Putting its money where its mouth is, Hobie is also working closely with fellow Dana Point cross-stepper Makala Harmony Smith. Grace personified on a surfboard, she’s on the forefront of a huge movement of women who are taking log riding and single-fin shredding in an exciting new direction. As far as Gottron is concerned, the

Surfer Ian Gottron (right) and shaper Michael Arenal in the bay working on some new designs for Hobie Surfboards. Look for the finished product in shops later this spring. Photo: Courtesy of Hobie

relationship with Hobie will kick off with the development of three new models. He’ll be working closely with shaper Michael Arenal as they develop the perfect all-round quiver. “The project is still in its infancy stages, but we are building him a longboard, midlength and shortboard model as part of his collection,” Carlow said. Gottron and Arenal will look to the designs of the late ’60s and early ’70s as they develop a “transition era” mid-length board that will feature the classic aesthetic of that revolutionary period in surfing and combine it with more modern bottom contours and design elements. The shortboard will be more of a fish model with some subtle tweaks and adjustments.

Teaming up with Arenal is an ideal situation for Gottron. Growing up surfing Salt Creek, Arenal’s eye for design and attention to detail make him one of the great young shapers in our area. “My dad—a mechanical engineer—raised me to work with my hands. We built gokarts and stuff. So when it came to a point where I really started getting interested in surfing, it seemed natural to start making some surfboards,” Arenal explained in a written piece for Hobie. One of the guiding lights in his development as a shaper was Donald Brink. Originally from South Africa, Brink now works and lives in the Capo Beach zone. Known for his craftsmanship and creativity, Brink helped give a young Arenal the motivation

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

ERYK BRANDT

Water Temperature: 59-61 Degrees F

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-12’

“Y

ou can’t lose in surfing,” says Eryk Brandt. That, my friends, is a scientific fact. You absolutely cannot lose in surfing, “because how can you lose while doing something you love?” A 12-year-old shredder from Capistrano Beach, Eryk learned to surf when he was 8 years old. His dad taught him the ropes at Doheny. These days, he’s a hard-charging sixth-grader at Shorecliffs Middle School. “I’m inspired to surf and catch waves,” he exclaims. “I really enjoy the ocean and having fun while I’m in it.” Where does he see surfing taking him in the next 10 years? “I don’t know, maybe I could be a pro surfer, or I’ll be in college studying animals or biology and playing soccer,” he says. “I love anything that has to do with animals no matter how scary or bizarre they may be; I just love being San Clemente Times February 20-26, 2020

he needed to get started. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for Donny,” Arenal continued. “I remember coming to Donny’s shop to show him the first board I’d shaped. Terry (Martin) was there hanging out. They both looked at my strange mini Simmons-like shape and had positive things to say about it. (That) was all the inspiration I needed.” Like any good surfer-shaper relationship, Gottron and Arenal will continue to finetune the models until they’re ready for public consumption. The first iterations of the boards are expected to land in shop racks sometime next month. In terms of where Gottron takes his surfing from here, the sky is pretty much the limit. Dana Point Surf Club president Eric Diamond has been watching him surf his whole life—he even coined the nickname “Gato-San”—and sees big things ahead. “I really feel Ian is going to evolve more in bigger Hawaiian waves in the years to come,” Diamond said. “It’s really never been about a trophy; he is just a stoked young man who surfs really, really well. He falls into the Dana Point flow masters—the school of ‘ride what makes you happy,’ a la school of Tyler Warren and Kolton Sullivan. “I mean, he’s comfortable pulling into massive mainland barrels or just hanging ten at one-foot Boneyard. I’ve seen him out surfing a crowded Creek on a pink, finless softtop, literally schooling everyone on what wouldn’t even be considered a surfboard.” Well, now that he does have some pretty epic surfboards under his feet, the future is wide open for Gottron. It’s going to be fun to see where he and Hobie take things. In the words of Humphrey Bogart, this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship. SC

Thursday: Fading Northwest swell, along with a smaller Southwest swell, for waiststomach high waves (2-3’+). Light offshore winds in the early morning shift to a light+ west sea breeze for the afternoon.

Eryk Brandt. Photo: Courtesy of the Brandt Family

around them. The animal world fascinates me! “And, by the way, I love dogs! I want to be a dog walker but found out I was too young to participate on the WAGs app for dog

walking. That bummed me out.” As far as words to live by, Eryk adheres to the surfer code: “If you’re going to do anything in life, have fun doing it!” SC

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Outlook: For Friday the combination of Northwest and Southwest swell eases into the knee-waist high zone, (2-3’). Light/variable flow in the morning, turns light+ southwesterly for Friday afternoon. Fresh Northwest swell joins in Saturday then continues through the weekend, for waist-stomach-chest high range surf, (2-3-4’). Favorably light morning winds on Saturday turn to moderate+ afternoon onshores. Lighter winds follow on Sunday. For the latest details be sure to visit Surfline.com.

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