July 19, 2018 by San Clemente Times

LO C A L

N EWS

July 19-25, 2018

YO U

C A N

He’s Back: Fred Swegles Joins Picket Fence Media

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VOLUME 13, ISSUE 29

Waves of Glory Ocean Festival to debut new events, enhance lifeguard competitions SPECIAL SECTION

The 42nd San Clemente Ocean Festival returns to provide ‘The Greatest Show on Surf’ July 21 and 22. Photo: File

Commission Sends Bikes on Beach Trails Proposal to City Council EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

Massive Porsche Car Rally Comes to Bella Collina on Sunday GETTING OUT/PAGE 8

www.sanclementetimes.com

Local Wiener Dog Aims to Recapture Former Glory SPORTS/PAGE 22

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SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With... Five things San Clemente should know this week Bikes on the Beaches Comes to City Council Decision THE LATEST: The Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission was expected to pass a recommendation to the City Council to make a General Plan amendment to allow for electric bicycles on the beach trails. Instead, commissioners decided to discuss allowing such vehicles on the trail as well as the beaches and to figure out what kind of laws should govern them. Some people who spoke at the July 10 commission meeting said they didn’t want to get run over by erratic cyclists who may not obey the good intent of the allowance. Commissioners also weighed in on the prospect of putting more responsibility on enforcement, which would come from San Clemente Police Services and possible the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). The commission also voted to require bicyclists to walk their bikes over bridges and in areas where there is less than 10 feet (approximately) of space for people to share the trails with a maximum speed of 6 miles per hour. Other people who spoke at the meeting said this is a better way to keep more cars off the road and helps some people with mobility. One man said the only way he can get from one end of town to the other without driving is with his electric bicycle. WHAT’S NEXT: The next City Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on July 24, but as of press time on July 18, the agenda for that meeting was not available. For an immediate update, check the city’s website, www.san-clemente.org, and click on Government and City Council to see if the agenda has been posted. —Eric Heinz

Sovereign Health to Close Businesses, Will Not Pay Employees Immediately, Internal Email States THE LATEST: According to an email sent to employees of Sovereign Health, a behavioral health treatment center based in San Clemente, the company said it would close and it will not be paying its employees. “As you are aware, Sovereign Health experienced a substantial downturn in revSan Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

Former Arizona U.S. Congresswoman Gabreille Giffords spoke to an audience at a private function on July 17 in San Clemente. Photo: Eric Heinz

enue over the past year. While we attempted to secure funding to keep the business operating, we’ve been unsuccessful,” the letter stated. “I can assure you, our senior management team and I turned over every rock in seeking financial assistance, but at this point, given the lack of resources to make payroll over this extended period, I cannot, in good conscience, ask you to continue working for no pay.” Calls to Sovereign Health’s public relations team were unsuccessful on July 12, as the numbers would not go through. The letter stated that employees were to turn over all company property at the end of the day. The letter continued to say that while the company does not have the funds to pay employees at this time, they are working with the California Department of Labor (DOL) regarding payroll and benefits. It also mentioned the DOL is in the midst of an investigation of Sovereign Health, which is already under one investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. “Sovereign understands its obligations to make payment of wages and any accrued entitlements, such as paid time off,” the letter stated. In 2017, FBI agents raided Sovereign Health locations in San Clemente, including its toxicology lab and the home of its CEO, Tonmoy Sharma. The company has been under scrutiny since multiple reports came out of how much Sovereign Health has charged insurance companies for behavioral health services. Some of the charges reported topped $100,000 for certain treatment. The theory is that once a patient’s insurance runs out or if the insurance company refuses to pay claims, the treatment center will no longer provide services to the client, leaving them to fend for themselves if no immediate family or friends take them in. Several former employees of Sovereign Health emailed SC Times in the weeks

leading up to Sovereign Health’s closure stating they hadn’t been paid in months. WHAT’S NEXT: The FBI has stated its investigation warrants are still sealed by a federal judge and the reasons behind its raid have not been established by the bureau. This is a developing story. More information will be provided when it becomes available. —EH

First Candidates Pull Nomination Papers THE LATEST: And we’re off! The San Clemente City Council 2018 election is underway, and five candidates have pulled nomination papers. So far, the residents who have pulled papers are Dan Bane, Don Brown Wayne Eggleston, Tiffany Robson Leet and Kathy Ward. Candidates must pull nomination papers and circulate them to obtain enough signatures before officially filing. More candidates are likely to pull papers as the weeks go on. WHAT’S NEXT: The deadline to pull nomination papers is Aug. 10, the same deadline to file a ballot initiative with the city. The San Clemente Times will update the list of candidates who pull nomination papers online at www.sanclementetimes.com under the headline “City Council Candidates Running” as of the latest date available. More information can be obtained by calling the City Clerk’s Office at 949.361.8345. —EH

Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords Urges Stricter Gun Laws at Private San Clemente Function THE LATEST: Former U.S. Congresswom-

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an Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona spoke to about 150 people at a private function in San Clemente on July 17, urging those in attendance to vote for candidates who would support stricter gun-control legislation. Giffords attended the event with her husband, astronaut Mike Kelly. “Now is the time to come together to be responsible as Democrats, Republicans, everyone,” Giffords said. “We must never stop fighting. Be bold, be courageous; the nation is counting on you.” Gun-control debates are likely to be a hot issue all the way into the general election—they’ve been discussed in political arenas for years, but the prevalence of mass shootings has brought it to the forefront of national politics. Organizations that have put significant amount of money toward candidates in favor of protecting federal gun rights argue that fewer guns would make it less safe for the general public. The function was held at a private residence in south San Clemente for California’s 49th Congressional district candidate Mike Levin, a Democrat from San Juan Capistrano, who faces Republican candidate Diane Harkey of Dana Point in the November general election. WHAT’S NEXT: The November general election is Nov. 6. —EH

City Asks Residents to Conserve Water Following Provider’s Valve Failure THE LATEST: About 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, the city of San Clemente issued a press release asking residents to significantly reduce their water usage after a valve from one of its major domestic water providers had failed. The press release stated an emergency shutdown of the valve was required in order to repair it. “The shutdown will significantly reduce the city’s ability to supply imported water to refill reservoirs throughout its system during the shutdown,” the press release stated. “While the city does not anticipate any interruptions in (…) potable water service to its customers, any conservation measures by the public will help keep water in storage during the outage.” WHAT’S NEXT: The city asks that residents and businesses discontinue irrigation and to not wash any vehicles and any other “unnecessary” use of water to keep the water supply adequate for indoor use and firefighting. The request was for at least 24 hours as of 6 p.m. July 17. The San Clemente Times will update this article online at www.sanclementetimes.com with the latest information. —Staff www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES Community Meetings

COMPILED BY STAFF

Local Sea Scouts Earn Organization’s Highest Rank Mariners 936 Sea Scouts have announced that members Lily Maranto and Emma Lottman have been awarded Sea Scouting’s highest rank of quartermaster. Nationwide, only about 40 Scouts receive this honor each year, according to a press release from Mariners 936. The quartermaster award stands for excellence and results from a young adult’s determination to reach goals that he or she has set and achieved in confronting many challenges along the way. To attain this rank, a scout must work through a multitude of requirements demonstrating an in depth knowledge of maritime skills and hold leadership positions within the ship. Quartermaster designation also requires an extensive project that demonstrates leadership of other scouts and a commitment to community. Maranto graduated from San Clemente High School this year and is now attending the United States Coast Guard Academy studying marine and environmental science. Lottman graduated from Crean Lutheran High School and will attend Westmont College in the fall. Attaining rank is an “optional requirement” of Mariners 936, which offers a year-round program teaching sailing, maritime and leadership skills and is based out of Dana Point Harbor. New members are welcome to join for the fall season starting in September. More information is available at www.mariners936.com or email info@mariners936.com.

Cox Conserves Heroes Program Cox Enterprises and The Trust for Public Land recently opened the nomination process for the Cox Conserves Heroes program. The program serves to honor environmental volunteers who create, preserve or enhance shared outdoor spaces in their local communities. Celebrating its 10th year, the nomination process is open in eight select Cox markets: Atlanta, Arizona, California (Orange County, San Diego and Santa Barbara), Florida, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Virginia and Washington. Once a winner from each market has been chosen, these winning individuals will compete in a national competition that the public will vote on in October. In California, the Cox Conserves Heroes program is presented by Cox Communications and Bank of America. Beginning this year, Cox has evolved the program to increase the levels of support for the winners. Local winners will San Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

TUESDAY, JULY 24

SUNRISE ROTARY 7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Course Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega. www. scsunriserotary.com. Emma Lottman, left, and Lily Maranto recently achieved the highest rank of quartermaster in Sea Scouts for Mariners 936. Photo: Courtesy of J. Jackson

receive $10,000 to donate to their environmental nonprofit of choice, with an additional award of $50,000 to the national winner’s chosen nonprofit. Nominees and nonprofits of choice must be located within a Cox service area in the eight participating markets. The public can nominate volunteers by filling out a brief online form on www. coxconservesheroes.com now through July 31. A panel of local and environmental leaders will select the winner in each market. The winners will then become candidates for the national title. National voting starts Oct. 1, and anyone can nominate at the local level or cast a ballot for their favorite finalist in the national competition. The winner of the national competition will be announced in late October.

Metrolink Positive Train Control (PTC) Testing Metrolink will conduct Positive Train Control (PTC) testing on Metrolink and North County Transit District (NCTD) owned tracks. PTC is a GPS-based safety technology that can stop a train and prevent train-to-train collisions, over-speed derailments and unauthorized train movement. PTC provides advancements in braking technology and ensures the safety of passengers by acting as a safeguard against human errors and other possible hazards. Metrolink will be performing field test operations on the Orange County Line between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m. as follows: • July 23-July 25: San Clemente Pier Station to San Onofre • July 26: Oceanside Station to Los Angeles Union Station and Los Angeles Union Station to Oceanside Metrolink Station. There will be minimal impacts from the testing to the communities along the OC Line. Trains will run according to the quiet zone standards, and residents may hear trains operating during this time. Questions and concerns can be directed

to Chris Gutierrez at 213.452.0210 or communityrelations@scrra.net.

City of San Clemente Announces Investment Policy Certification The California Municipal Treasurers Association (CMTA) investment policy certification has been granted to the city of San Clemente, according to a press release from the city. This investment policy certification recognizes that CMTA has validated that the city of San Clemente’s Investment Policy adheres to the state of California Government Code and meets the program requirements within 18 different topics areas deemed to be best practices for investment policies. The Investment Policy received an average score of 91.3 percent by three reviewers. The areas evaluated include: prudence, delegation of authority, ethics and conflicts of interest, authorized and suitable investments, review of investment portfolio, safekeeping and custody, diversification, internal controls, performance standards and reporting, the release stated. Once a policy is received by the CMTA, it is independently evaluated using a scoring matrix by three separate CMTA professionals. When the agency receives a passing score, the Investment Policy earns the “certified” distinction. “The city’s Investment Policy is the single most important safeguard when it comes to protecting our $143 million portfolio,” said Mark Taylor, the city treasurer, in the city’s press release. “Our citizens should rest easier knowing that such a reputable organization as the CMTA has certified the City’s Investment Policy.” Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.

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BECAUSE I LOVE YOU (BILY) MEETING 6:30-8:30 p.m. Meets every Tuesday. Because I Love You (BILY) helps parents find solutions to any crisis they are experiencing due to their children’s (adult or minor) poor choices. Presbyterian Church. 119 Avenida De La Estrella. www.bilysc.org. CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 p.m. The San Clemente City Council will host a fourth-week meeting. 100 Avenida Presidio. 949.361.8200. www.san-clemente.org. SAN CLEMENTE TOASTMASTERS 7 p.m. The club meets every Tuesday, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for social and networking time. San Clemente Baha’i Center. 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 805.794.0653. www.sanclementetoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org. WEDNESDAY, JULY 25

SAN CLEMENTE ROTARY Noon. The San Clemente Rotary meets every Wednesday at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena. 949.233.7981. www.sanclementerotary.org. KIWANIS SAN CLEMENTE Noon. Kiwanis San Clemente meets on most Wednesdays. Fratello’s Italian Restaurant, 647 Camino De Los Mares No. 126, San Clemente. www.sanclementekiwanis.com. THE MARKET AT NORTH BEACH 4-8 p.m. Certified farmer’s market selling a variety of seasonal items, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks and children’s activities weekly. 1832 N. El Camino Real. 949.361.8264. www.san-clemente.org.

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SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS PUBLISHER’S LETTER: By Norb Garrett

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

Fred Swegles Joins Our Team

phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Eric Heinz, 949.388.7700, x109 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh, 949.388.7700, x110 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE

Susie Lantz, 949.388.7700, x111 slantz@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS

Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@picketfencemedia.com GENERAL MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett EDITORIAL City Editor, SC Times > Eric Heinz City Editor, DP Times > Daniel Ritz City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Alex Groves

Real Estate Sales Executive > Jennifer Guy ART/DESIGN Art Director > Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer > Chelsie Rex OPERATIONS

Sports Editor > Zach Cavanagh

Finance Director > Mike Reed

Columnist > Fred Swegles

General Manager > Alyssa Garrett

Special Projects Editor > Andrea PapagianisCamacho

Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines

ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller

Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes > Susie Lantz (San Clemente)

CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Tim Trent Jake Howard

> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) San Clemente Times, Vol. 13, Issue 29. The SC Times (www. sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (www. danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www. thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2018. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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San Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

Fred Swegles.

CoastLines

by Fred Swegles

Familiar Face Returns to Writing about San Clemente

reetings, readers. I hope you will welcome a new kid onto these pages. This is the first in a series of San Clemente Times columns I’m calling CoastLines, snippets about San Clemente. I hope to share a few perspectives gained from seven decades of San Clemente life (1950s through now) and five decades chronicling the town for the Sun Post News. May the Sun Post, my former life’s work, rest in peace. The Sun Post newspaper era (1937-2018) ended in March, a victim of the OC Register’s unfortunate downsizing. I plan to tell stories about people and places, maybe a few oddities, a bit of humor, some photos. I may contribute occasional photos and words on other SC Times pages. For readers who don’t know me, I grew up here, attending San Clemente Grammar School (now Las Palmas), Concordia Elementary, Capistrano Union High and,

t’s a huge honor to welcome Fred Swegles to our team here at San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media. Starting this week, Fred will be writing a weekly column for the SC Times titled “CoastLines by Fred Swegles” in which he’ll provide his unique perspective on our amazing community, leveraging his 46 years of experience writing for various local newspapers, most recently the now-defunct Sun Post. I’ve gotten to know Fred professionally over the past 18 years since moving my family to San Clemente, especially over the past 13 since I started the SC Times in 2006, and I’ve had nothing but admiration and appreciation for him and his thoughtful work. His voice and perspective are important parts of our community, and I’m thrilled that the SC

Times can provide a forum for Fred to continue to chronicle life in this unique beach town many of us are lucky to call home. If you’d like to reach out to him to share some ideas for him to consider for his column, you’ll be able to reach him directly at fswegles@ picketfencemedia.com or on his office line here at 949.388.7700 ext. 112. PUBLISHER Please join me in welcomNorb Garrett ing Fred to the SC Times and the Picket Fence Media family. Norb Garrett is the owner and publisher of Picket Fence Media, a company of newspapers serving San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano. SC

from the day it opened in 1964, San Clemente High School. I was the first sports editor of the school paper, The Triton. The Sun Post hired me to write up the football games. I also worked shifts at Denny’s (even double shifts), also elsewhere around town. Anyone remember Cobb’s on Pico? I was blessed to score a journalism scholarship to USC. I was home most weekends, surfing T-Street. I was sports editor of the Daily Trojan for two years, during the O.J. Simpson era. Graduating in 1970, I returned home, intent on saving money and traveling for a couple of years before settling down to a serious career. With Sun Post publisher Stan Manning’s blessing, I managed a fair bit of COASTLINES By Fred Swegles world travel, via extended sabbaticals. As addicted to travel as I was, San Clemente was a fabulous place to come home to. I enjoyed covering my hometown. The wanderlust turned to surf photography. I shot photos for surf magazines, publishing select ones in the Sun Post. My boss was cool with it, a win/win, visiting far reaches of the world photographing our local surf heroes. In 1993, the OC Register acquired the Sun Post. Ten years later, I halted commercial surf photography. Times had changed in the news industry, and so did my focus. As newspapers dwindled nationwide, I survived repeated rounds of layoffs. The March 1 elimination of my position saddened me greatly, but I’m grateful for

the opportunity to cover my hometown for so many years. Post-layoff, I’ve traveled, relaxed and relished getting my life back, freed from an endless treadmill of overwork that I had imposed on myself. Norb Garrett, owner and publisher of Picket Fence Media, has invited me to continue contributing to the conversation in San Clemente. He also had an opening covering San Juan Capistrano and offered it, too. I declined. I covered San Juan the last two years for OC Register, along with San Clemente. I met some really nice people there. It was tempting. But I’m not inclined to return to the days/nights/weekends treadmill. Thanks for the offer. That chapter is, in my mind, over. The weight of local politics no longer burdens me. I’ve learned to appreciate that the last four months. Life is too short. Time to kick back and focus on topics that I’ll handpick, apt to enjoy. Norb asked what I want to title myself in the staff box. I said, “How about Old Guy?” He laughed and wondered if that might offend some readers. So, I will accept his compromise: Resident Old-Timer. I actually like Old Guy better, but that’ll do. Thanks, SC Times, for the opportunity. I hope we can share some good times here. Aloha. Fred Swegles is a San Clemente native with more than 46 years of journalism experience in the city. SC

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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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SOAPBOX

Letters to The Editor REPRESENTATION NEEDED THROUGH DISTRICT ELECTIONS LAURA FERGUSON, San Clemente

San Clemente voters will soon vote on a citizens-initiated ballot measure that seeks to change the way we vote for City Councilmembers from at-large to bydistrict elections. Councilmembers elected by-district still take an oath to serve all residents, yet they are more attuned to the unique problems of their constituents. District-based elections also allow the work to be more evenly divided among Councilmembers and has been shown to improve citizen participation because they represent a specific district in a city and are typically more responsive to their constituency. At great time and expense, a group of diverse citizens obtained sufficient voter signatures in 2016 to place this on the ballot. Our city got very involved in the process and delayed placement of the measure to 2018. The City Council ordered a taxpayerfunded “study” that cost us $18,500, then later spent $16,286 in taxpayer funds to fix inaccurate language in the counter arguments against the measure in support of by-district elections. Then, after months of requesting public records on related legal bills, the city attorney provided a list of redacted billing totaling $81,000 with no explanation. There have been occasions when our city has compared by-district elections to Capistrano Unified School District (CUSD), which switched to district-based elections after passage of Measure H in 2010. Not a fair comparison when CUSD’s voting districts cover seven cities and six unincorporated areas. Our districts will only cover San Clemente. Also, during the Talega Mello-Roos advocacy, our very own “by-district” trustee in San Clemente did

not help us, but trustees from San Juan Capistrano and Mission Viejo did help us tremendously. All neighborhoods deserve a voice on City Council. It shouldn’t be them against us. It should be all of us, equally and properly represented. The current system is not working for San Clemente. Council has no solution for the homeless, drug sales and use, rehab homes, improving timely issuance of permits, increasing police presence, an abandoned City Hall, and runaway legal costs. For information, please join us at our new Facebook page at District Elections Now.

COASTAL SHORT TERM RENTAL SUPPORTERS IGNORE HISTORIC NUISANCE LAWS ROGER BUTOW, Laguna Beach

Coastal city short-term rental (STR) proponents ignore legally binding land-use concepts, typically using meritless, flawed arguments at hearings. They’re good for business? Unfortunately, coastal trends since 2000 are “commerce first, residents second.” By residents I mean those not owning potential STR parcels. Favoring commerce, over 40 percent of the population who rent year-round do not wish to acquire permits. That constitutes an incontestable majority. Beyond permit fees, there’s no proof that more STR operators would appreciably increase general municipal revenue via significant taxable amounts at businesses. Often, tenants are extended families and friends. They’ll be saving money by cooking and drinking at the rental, not out. They increase or assist public access to our beaches? A classic strawman argument. Yes, a few hundred more people will be ensconced, but the California Coastal Commission (CCC) is dead wrong on this one. Otherwise, why allow more and more parking meters, increasing rates plus climbing violation fees? Aren’t limited time meters a form of infringement, inhibition or visitation disincentive?

Coastal cities increasingly allow intensification of use for restaurants and bars without demanding increased onsite parking. Why doesn’t the CCC object to that? These sites eat up more public parking, thus decreasing access, don’t they? STRs are their castle, and limitations constitute a de facto taking? That ignores the basics of common civility, public and private nuisance laws traced back to King Henry III: “Private nuisance: An unreasonable, unwarranted invasion, where actions of the defendant cause a substantial interference with another’s use/enjoyment of their property. Public nuisance: The defendant’s actions materially affect the reasonable comfort and convenience of life of the community.” No one has the inalienable right to use their property to the diminishment of their neighbor(s). Yes, some operators are vigilant and do not abuse the terms and conditions. The nightmares abound, absentee owners are trying to maximize income to offset, mitigate their taxes and maintenance. They bought the parcel without STR rights: Enhancing private revenue models is not the community’s problem. STRs actually diminish property values, now that’s a fiscal infringement by irregular taking including tort litigation exposure.

row to kill an animal must certainly cause more pain than being shot with a bullet. In some instances the pain and suffering may be vastly greater. I believe the killing should be done in the most reasonable, quickest and least painful manner available. If Mr. Erskine truly believes he does not enjoy the “thrill,” then he should reevaluate the increased pain and suffering he may be inflicting on these innocent animals. The use of a bow and arrow to kill seems to contradict his “tremendous amount of respect for the animal, and nature.” And I vehemently disagree with his statement that “the animals are everyone’s.” No wild animal is anyone’s. I have done some research on this subject, but again I realize I’m not an expert on this matter either, and as painful as it is to think about I would like to know more.

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

WHAT EFFECTS DOES HUNTING HAVE ON CONSERVATION OF ANIMALS? WES CORRELL, Irvine

I do not know enough about the conservation effects of hunting to form an intelligent opinion. I would rather Mother Nature take care of the “conservation” of animals without the interference of mankind, but obviously that ship sailed long ago. If Mr. Erskine, featured in the July 12-18 edition of the San Clemente Times, wants to hunt and harvest animals to use the meat, etc., that is fine with me and certainly within his rights. However, in most instances using an ar-

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, July 20 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso This week’s Beachside Chat guest will be Prime Hall of the Marine Raider Challenge, who is bringing a completely new event to Ocean Festival this year. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Eric Heinz every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week

At the Movies: Can’t Erase the Great Work of ‘Leave No Trace’

EDITOR’S PICK

COMPILED BY STAFF

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to San Clemente Times by going to www.sanclementetimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Thursday | 19 CASA UP CLOSE: THE HISTORY OF BAJA CALIFORNIA 7 p.m. Learn about the history, culture, and legends of Baja California with selfdescribed “Baja buff” Greg Niemann, the author of nonfiction books Baja Fever and Baja Legends. Nieman has been visiting Baja California all of his life, and has written award-winning articles for several regional travel publications. Casa Romantica, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org.

Friday | 20 LIVE JAZZ: MICHELE MORGAN AT ADELE’S 7-10 p.m. Michele Morgan and her jazz trio will perform at Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn. There is a $7 cover charge. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente. 949.481.1222. www.adelesanclementeinn.com

Saturday | 21 TALEGA RUN CLUB 7:30 a.m. Whether you are about to tackle your first 5K or you are just keeping your cardio and running prowess in top form, be sure to stop by Peet’s Coffee in Talega. Every Saturday a group runners of varying skill level take a brisk three-mile run around a predetermined course. Admission is free. 801 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. 949.588.5054. www.facebook. com/2xusanclemente.

Photo: Courtesy of Sony Pictures BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Photo: Courtesy of 365 Club of Southern California

SUNDAY, JULY 22: 365 CLUB OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S CONCOURS 6 a.m.-1 p.m. The 356 Club of Southern California is inviting the Porsche car community to be a part of its 32nd Annual 356 Club’s Concours at their new location in San Clemente. As is the custom, any Porsche can come and display on the grass with the 356s to be judged. More than 400 Porsches are expected to be part of the Concours competitors. Any Porsche 356, 911, 912, 928, 914, 917, 904 is welcome to come and ‘‘display only’’. The cost to register for the event is a $20 donation in cash the day of the show. General admission is free. Bella Collina San Clemente, 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. 949.498.6604. www.356club.org/concours.

and movement of the human body and the human spirit. Tea and coffee is offered at 11 a.m. followed by the performance. For more information, email SCbahaiLSA@yahoo. com. San Clemente Baha’i Center, San Clemente Baha’i Center, 3316 Ave Del Presidente. 949.791.9192. www.bahaicenter.com.

Monday | 23

Sunday | 22

PET PROJECT FOUNDATION BENEFIT 4-8 p.m. “Yappy Hour for a Cause” will provide a portion of all food and beverage sales during the event to be donated directly back to the Pet Project Foundation. There will also be a silent auction and raffle with all proceeds going back to their organization. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Ave Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.1617. www. petprojectfoundation.org.

SOUL FOOD: THE DANCE OF LIFE 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. This month’s performance will be provided by Human Hemmati, whose musical influences range from American to Chinese Folk. The theme is to explore the parallels between the power

BINGO AT GOODY’S TAVERN 7 p.m. Every Monday, Goody’s hosts a bingo night for a charity of the month. Cards are $1 per sleeve, and raffle prizes are offered. Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.

San Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

Tuesday | 24 NEEDLEWORK CIRCLE 12:30-2:30 p.m. Join the Needlework Circle on Tuesdays as they knit and crochet for a community service project. San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar. 949.492.3493. www.ocpl.org/libloc/sc.

Wednesday | 25 FREE COMEDY AT BLOOMS IRISH SPORTS BAR 8:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, free comedy at Blooms Irish Sports Bar with food and drink specials. There will be local and professional talent. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.218.0120. OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 9 p.m.-1 a.m. All levels of musicians are welcome to perform at this weekly open mic. Bring your instruments, or voice, and show off your talent. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. www. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

Page 8

en Foster is one of those actors, like Ralph Fiennes or Joaquin Phoenix, who has always done consistent, steady work. But for whatever reason or another, he’s always stayed under the radar. Foster’s career has progressed from starting as a child actor on Disney Channel to starring in teen movies to playing creeps and troubled men in dramas and indie films. His latest project, Leave No Trace, is just as intriguing, though slow-moving and with a new indie star on the rise. War veteran Will (Foster) lives in isolation with his 15-year-old daughter, Tom (Thomasin McKenzie), in the Oregon wilderness. Things are moderately successful, with Will and Tom sleeping in tents, hunting their own food, reading books and playing board games. Until one day, the local authorities discover where they are, and they are forced to move into a neighborhood and live typically. Will isn’t interested in conforming, but Tom might be open to the new experience. Leave No Trace is adapted from Peter Rock’s novel My Abandonment and directed by Debra Granik, who is famous for directing Jennifer Lawrence’s Oscarnominated breakthrough Winter’s Bone in 2010. McKenzie naturally has been getting comparisons to Lawrence with her recent performance, which is a bit of a shame, as the young teen’s performance is impressive enough to stand on its own, especially when you learn the actress is actually from New Zealand. Foster does great work as usual, but it’s McKenzie who carries and tells the story on her own. SC

www.sanclementetimes.com

WELCOME TO

“The Greatest Show on Surf” BY PEGGY VANCE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OCEAN FESTIVAL, AND BARRETT TESTER, RACE DIRECTOR

t’s time for thrills and spills, splashing and dashing, as the 42nd annual San Clemente Ocean Festival takes place on Saturday, July 21, and Sunday, July 22, at the San Clemente Pier. Athletes, friends and families are invited to join us on the beach and the Pier to enjoy time together with fun and exciting athletic competitions, great food, outdoor activities and entertainment. There is limited parking, but don’t fret, you can take the train right to the Pier and avoid trafﬁc altogether, or take advantage of the free covered parking and shuttles from the Outlets at San Clemente, located at 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. Entry into the event is free, and you can start out both days with a delicious pancake breakfast on the beach prepared by our San Clemente Lifeguards. All proceeds go to the San Clemente Surf Lifesaving Association.

PEGGY VANCE

The theme of Ocean Festival is to bring families and lifeguards together for fun activities on the beach, and that mantra has been the basis of the success of the Ocean Festival. This merit has kept it unique and beyond imitation. The event is run by a volunteer board of directors and its executive, athletic and surf directors who pool their talents to continue to deliver “The Greatest Show on Surf” with the hundreds of community volunteers who provide manpower during the two-day event. Saturday events include the Lifeguard Competitions, SUP Surﬁng Championships, and check out the Grom’s Rule Surf Contest (7 & under “Push-in” category). One of the premiere events is the One-Mile

Ocean Swim, which is now officially sanctioned by the Global Swim Series (GSS). New this year, there will be a team championship trophy for highest scoring club in the One-Mile Ocean Swim. For the young ones in your family, the Youth Pavilion, south of the Pier, will be packed with crafts and games, as well as demonstrations and performances for all ages to enjoy! Saturday, there will be a Dolphin Dash kid’s beach run for ages 12 and under, sponsored by Clif Kid—all participants will receive an Ocean Festival medallion! Stop by the free bodysurfing clinics just south of the Youth Pavilion on Saturday and learn about rip currents and how to catch a wave. Sponsor booths will have information, activities and goodies to share with everyone. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar will have a food court at the base of the Pier with a variety of treats to tickle your taste buds. Saturday evening, pull up your beach chair, towel or blanket and enjoy the free concert featuring MoonShine, sponsored by Sheckler Foundation, as you watch the sun set behind Dana Point. Sand sculpting will start the day on Sunday, and join us for the ever-popular Great Rubber Duck Race in the afternoon! The San Clemente Ocean Festival has grown into a tradition for many within our community as well as the Inland Empire and as far-reaching as the East Coast, Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand. We thank San Clemente’s incredibly dedicated lifeguards who watch over all of us as we enjoy the weekend’s events. Net proceeds from the event activities and perennial T-shirt sales enable us to support many local organizations and programs, benefitting families in San Clemente with programs such as Adopt-A-Class field trips to the Ocean Institute, Summer Beach Concerts, San Clemente Lifeguard programs, scholarships for local students and more. To our sponsors and volunteers, thank you for all your hard work and support! To those who will be joining us for the first time or have made the Ocean Festival an annual event, we hope you will agree that it truly is “The Greatest Show On Surf”! For more information and complete event schedules, visit our website www. oceanfestival.org. Mark your calendars: Next year’s dates are July 20 and 21!

Drinking in the MoonShine LAGUNA BEACH MODERN ROCKABILLY, BLUES BAND TO PERFORM AT OCEAN FESTIVAL

BY ERIC HEINZ

he reverb the guitar makes in surf music will be heard throughout San Clementes main beach during Ocean estival s Saturday Concert The band performing is MoonShine, which is comprised of Celena Marie Delpizzo-Howell, vocalist; her brother, Dylan Del Pizzo-Howell, guitar; stand-up bass player Elijah Meisse; harmonica player Travis Muniz; and drummer Nick Crays. They are based out of Laguna Beach. “We actually got contacted by an Ocean Festival (representative) who saw us at Hobie in Laguna Beach, and she contacted me and said theres this awesome event in San Clemente and thought wed be great for it, Celena said he band wanted to change it up for a different surf vibe and bluesy. We like to say that our original music brings back vintage rock with a blues twist.” MoonShine performs cover songs as well as their original songs. Celena said the band tries to combine iconic genres with a modern marinade. “My brother and I started as a duo in 2012, and about a year in we started adding people, and we ve been growing and now we re a ﬁve-piece, Celena said really just feed off of an awesome audience and setting, for sure, so seeing people in their element just enjoying our music ﬁlls my soul And just performing with my brother is probably the best gift ve received in my life e have a great relationship, and we feed off each other t s been a great experience with our longtime friends.” Celena also said the band does have an “Americana” style, kind of like the folk-rock bands that have come to prominence in the last decade. ike our harmonica player, he ll bring that classic style of music and sometimes plays a banjo, Celena said t s more than just rockabilly, and they really connect with the blues in the music m influenced by strong female vocalists like illie

MoonShine of Laguna Beach will perform from 6-8 p.m. on Saturday, July 21 at the main stage by the Pier for Ocean Festival. Photo: Courtesy

Holiday and classic American sounds. And my brother as a guitar player, his influences are very blues-driven, like the music from Johnny Cash.” he elpi o- owells father grew up in San Clemente and had frequented Ocean Festival throughout the years. This will be Celenas ﬁrst time performing at the San Clemente Pier

Marine Raider Boat Challenge makes debut at Ocean Festival BY ERIC HEINZ

nits of Special Forces will put their skills to the test in the inaugural Marine Raider Boat Challenge on Sunday, July 22, at Ocean Festival. Amphibious crafts will be used in the races similar to the Dory boats and other competitions. The boats are inflated rafts and competitors will have to paddle—no motors are involved. The event was created by Prime Hall, a former Marine Raider who served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Hall put on the Marine Raider Challenge in February and is the founder of the Underwater Torpedo League. ﬁrst reached out to arrett ester, Ocean estival s ofﬁcial referee and event analyst, about a year and a half ago, and he was super stoked when I came back with my draft permit, but I needed someone to run my beach operations, and he stepped up to do it,” Hall said. “They really wanted us to build out a military-themed event because there had never been one at Ocean Festival.” There will be three Marine Raider races on Sunday at 11:40

Photo: Courtesy of the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

a.m., 2 and 2:20 p.m. near the San Clemente Pier. The boats are typically used to transport special operations forces he ﬁrst major usage of the vessels was in orld ar when the Marine Raiders, USMC Special Forces, inserted them by submarines to each island-hopping campaign in the Paciﬁc Theater. “These dudes come out, inflate the boats and put the deck plates in and throw their gear in, and it s uick, all said

ve been hearing about this event for a long time, and the fact that get to perform at it, is ama ing and ve heard what an amazing experience it is,” Celena said. MoonShine will perform from 6-8 p.m. at the Ocean Festival main stage at the Pier my parents are huge supporters and they re very e cited

According to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, using amphibious crafts proved vital toward the end of World War II. “(President Theodore) Roosevelt wanted the Corps to form commando units, according to an insert from the museums website. “The Joint Chiefs of Staff ended the debate by committing the Corps to the Pacific as amphibious assault troops The Marines welcomed the mission but worried about attaining the means to accomplish it.” Eight teams of six competitors comprised of active and former Marine Raiders, Navy SEALS, Army Special Forces and reconnaissance teams will compete. The route goes straight out about half the length of the Pier and then around a series of buoys before returning to land at the finish line he twist is once the boats are behind the buoys, the teams must flip the raft over and then reestablish it before moving on toward the finish Only two boats will compete against one another in each race in a head-to-head competition. Each team will get three races, and the top two teams will battle it out and the bottom teams will race as well. Each team will raise money for their special operations charities of their choice. To see the various charities to donate to, visit www.facebook.com/marineraiderchallenge/. One such charity is the World War II Marine Raider reunion, which takes place the same weekend as Ocean Festival.

San Cle

Eve

SAN JU

Featured Booths & Vendors 1. Body Surﬁng Clinics – SC Bodysurﬁng Club(Sat) 1. Sand Sculpting Registration (Sun) 2. Storage/Changing Rooms 3. Youth Pavilion Stage 4. Youth Pavilion Shade area 5. Crafts 5a. Dolphin Dash Registration (Sat) 6. Photo Booth 7. Ocean Institute 8. Game Booth 9. Game Booth

10. Game Booth 11. Game Booth 12. Youth Pavilion Ticket Sales 13. Clif Kid 14. Hero Nutritionals 15. Saddleback College 16. Swift Health Chiropractic 17. Ocean Cleaning Solutions 18. Surterre Properties 19. Outlets at San Clemente 20. Duck sales & decorating 21. SCOF Tee Sales

For event photos, visit

For more information, v

emente Ocean Festival

ent map

N CLEMENTE PIER ULY 21–22, 2018

22. DIRECTV 23. Airforce Reserves 24. Winning Ways / Wyndham 25. CA Operation Lifesaver (Sat) 25. SC Lifeguard Foundation (Sun) 26. KWVE 27. Fisherman’s Food Court 28. Youtheory 29. Volunteer/Information 30. Lifeguard & Beach event Registration & Results 31. Results Board

32. Athletic Refreshments 33. Rip Curl 34. San Clemente Times 35. Murf Electric Bikes 36. Main Stage & Awards 37. Registration: SUP & Groms (Sat) + Groms Rule (Sun) 38. KABC/KLOS van 39. Pancake Breakfast (and tickets) 39. Marine Raiders (Sun pm) 40. Ocean Art Show 41. FREE SPEECH

t sanclementetimes.com

visit oceanfestival.org

Don't miss the Rubber Duck races! Sunday at 3 p.m.

SAN CLEMENTE OCEAN FESTIVAL

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS SATURDAY, JULY 21 Stand Up Paddleboard Stand-Up Surfing Championships 6 a.m. Registration/check-in at surf registration booth, north of the Pier 6:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Competitions 12th Annual “Groms Rule” Surf Contest (Boys and girls age 7 and under) 9 a.m. Registration/check-in at surf registration booth, north of the Pier 11:45 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Heats north of Pier 3:45 p.m. SUP and Groms Rule Awards Ceremony (Main Stage)

STAND-UP PADDLEBOARD EVENTS

Children’s Fishing Clinic and All Ages Fishing Derby At the end of the Pier. *PLEASE NOTE: Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult 6:30 a.m. – noon Registration, clinic and derby 12:30 p.m. Judging and prizes awarded City Lifeguard Pancake Breakfast 7 – 11 a.m. North of the Pier, near marine safety HQ 10th Annual “Dolphin Dash” Kid’s Beach Run (ages 12 and under) 7:30 – 8:45 a.m. Registration/check-in at the Youth Pavilion, south of the Pier 9 a.m. ½ mile run for ages 4-6 9 a.m. ¾ mile run for ages 7-9 9 a.m. 1 mile run for ages 10-12 26th Annual Woodie CLASSIC Car Exhibit 8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Displayed on the San Clemente Pier Lifeguard Competitions Main competition area-north of San Clemente Pier - featuring: 9 a.m. Event 1: Surf Race – Women 9 a.m. Surf Race – Men 10:15 a.m. Event 2: Rescue Relay (2 person, rescue can and ﬁns Open eat

10:30 a.m. Rescue Relay (2 person, rescue can and fins Open eat 10:45 a.m. Event 3: Surf Ski Race (Lifeguard spec) – Women 11 a.m. Surf Ski Race (Lifeguard spec) – Men 11:15 a.m. Event 4: National Doryman’s Association – NDA Race 1 12:15 p.m. Event 5: International Ironman (swim, ski, paddle) – Women 12:30 p.m. International Ironman (swim, ski, paddle) – Men 1 p.m. Event 6: Paddleboard Rescue Relay (2 person, 10’6”) – Heat 1 1:15 p.m. Paddleboard Rescue Relay (2 person, 10’6”) – Heat 2 1:30 p.m. Event 7: National Doryman’s Association – NDA Race 2 2:30 p.m. Event 8: 10’6” Paddleboard Sprint Women 2:45 p.m. 10’6” Paddleboard Sprint - Men 3:30 p.m. Event 9: American Ironman (swim, paddle, dory) 4 p.m. American Iron Woman (run, swim, paddle) 4:15 p.m. San Clemente ody Surfing Club Demonstration 5 p.m. Lifeguard events awards ceremony (Main Stage) Ocean Art Show 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Parque Del Mar, overlooking event & south of beach tunnel Free Bodysurfing Clinics 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. South of the Pier, next to the Youth Pavilion osted by San Clemente ody Surfing Club Youth Pavilion All-day events: Arts, crafts and games hosted by the City of San Clemente Recreation Division. Plus, DJ entertainment, Ocean Institute, Clif Kid and Hero Nutritionals booths. 8 a.m. Ticket sales begin for crafts, games and face painting 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Arts and crafts, game booths, and face painting 10–11 a.m. Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu demonstration 11– 11:45 a.m. Hula Connection - performance Noon – 1 p.m. Hard Core Fitness Kids demonstration 1– 2:15 p.m. Stink, Inc. – performance 2:15 – 3 p.m. DJ - entertainment * Special presentations throughout the day

Beach Party and Free Concert 5– 7 p.m. Dinners available through Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar on the beach 6– 8 p.m. Free beach concert featuring: MoonShine

SUNDAY, JULY 22 MERMAID PARADE WITH KING NEPTUNE

12th Annual “Groms Rule” Surf Contest (Boys and girls age 14 and under) 6 a.m. Registration/check-in at the surf registration booth, north of the Pier 6:30 a.m.–3 p.m. North of Pier 3 p.m. Awards ceremony (main stage) Sand Sculpture Team Competition 6:30 a.m. Registration and sculpting, south of the Pier 1-1:30 p.m. Judging/viewing (depending on the tides) 2 p.m. (apx) Awards – Immediately following judging City Lifeguard Pancake Breakfast 7-11 a.m. North of the Pier, near marine safety 26th Annual Woodie CLASSIC Car Exhibit 8:30 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Displayed on the Pier Ocean Art Show 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Parque Del Mar, overlooking event and south of beach tunnel Beach Events Main competition area-north of the San Clemente Pier - featuring: 8 a.m. Event 10: 5K Beach Run/Walk 9 a.m. Event 11: Biathlon (1K swim and 5K beach run) 9:45 a.m. Event 12: Open Ocean Paddle Race (SUP, prone, ski – apx 5.5 miles) 11:40 a.m. Event 13: Marine Raider Boat Challenge – Race 1 Noon Event 14: One-Mile Ocean Swim – Race 1: Women

1:10 p.m. One-Mile Ocean Swim – Race 2: Men 2 p.m. Marine Raider Boat Challenge – Race 2 2:20 p.m. Marine Raider Boat Challenge – Race 3 2:40 p.m. Event 15: Run – Swim – Run (200m run, 300m swim, 200m run) 3:15 p.m. Event 16: SUP Sprint – Men and women 3:30 p.m. Event 17: Splash and Dash Relay (runner 100m and swimmer 300m) 3:45 p.m. Marine Raider Boat Challenge - Final 4:30 p.m. SCO ﬁnal awards ceremony (main stage) Youth Pavilion All-day events: Arts, crafts and games hosted by City of San Clemente Recreation Division. Plus, Ocean Institute, Clif Kid and Hero Nutritionals booths. 8 a.m. Ticket sales begin for crafts, games and face painting 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Arts and crafts, game booths (hosted by SC Parks and Recreation Division), and face painting 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Mermaid Parade with King Neptune 10 – 11 a.m. Issac Sotelo – performance 11 a.m. – noon Corey Angeli / The Unknown performance Noon – 1 p.m. WhipLashX - performance 1– 3 p.m. School of Rock “House Band” – music and entertainment 26th Annual Great Rubber Duck Race 3 p.m. (approximate time) Sponsor ducks are $5 each *Announcement of winners following athletic awards and ﬁnal arine aider Challenge *SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

ROCK THE YOUTH NEW ROCK BANDS HIGHLIGHT THE YOUTH PAVILION STAGE BY ZACH CAVANAGH

handful of newcomer rock bands as well as a healthy amount of returning favorites will highlight the Youth Pavilion at this year’s San Clemente Ocean Festival. he ﬁrst new rock offering will take place p m on Saturday, uly with Stink, nc he San Clemente band made of a group of skateboarding friends, ages to , describes itself as punk rock for deviant children on its nstagram page he four-member group will put together a string of punk-rock hits that open the musical performances at the outh Pavilion. ssac Sotelo makes his Ocean estival debut on Sunday, uly at a m , and then the stage on the south side of the pier really gets to rocking with a pair of Community Outreach Alliance COA performances Corey Angeli begins with a short pop rock acoustic set at 11 a.m. before grabbing his electric guitar Angeli will team up with drummer ohn essin to form the band he Unknown to pump out some strong alternative rock. Stick around at a m because if punk or alternative isn t your style, hip ash will hit you with some classic-rock jams ordanne amilton on vocals, yle ichardson on lead guitar, ristan Chilvers on keyboards, synth and rhythm guitar and Chandler Chilvers on bass, rhythm guitar and keyboards join up with a

second round of Tessin on drums to bang out the songs we all know. oth he Unknown and hip ash formed out of the COA’s music outreach initiative helping the organi ations mission to stop teen drug and addiction problems and foster healthy activities. he outh Pavilion festivities open with energetic activities presented by returning favorites uillobel ra ilian iu- itsu Academy starts off Saturday with a demonstration of the martial art at a m he San Clemente academy s head master, Sensei Paulo uillobel, is a world-champion black belt he academy offers classes starting with 3-year-olds. ollowing up at a m is ula Connection with a showcase of Polynesian dancing and culture ow in its th year of operation in San Clemente, ula Connection displays the awaiian, aori, Samoan and ahitian cultures Hula Connection offers classes beginning with 2-year-olds. ake orest s ard Core itness will have a kids’ event at noon on Saturday. Sunday opens up with the ermaid Parade as ing eptune and the mermaids visit the outh Pavilion from - a m Sunday’s entertainment closes after the COA performances with a two-hour show from the School of ock house band from - p m ustins School of ock puts together the house band with children -and-under to perform in the local communities.

Preserving

Positivity KELLY FINNEY RECEIVES ANNUAL OCEAN FESTIVAL DOROTHY FULLER AWARD BY ERIC HEINZ

ou can see her on the beach, roads, ﬁelds and other terrain wearing her trademark referee uniform at many San Clemente events hrough her dedication to volunteerism and sunshine attitude, elly inney was named the recipient of the orothy uller Award, which is given to someone who shows e ceptional initiative to the preservation of Ocean estival or once, think might be speechless, inney said on uly at Casa omantica, after her name was called at the sponsors dinner, which honors organi ations that donate to Ocean estival as well as the award recipient am flattered am honored feel like there are so many people that are better deserving of this, inney continued love the Ocean estival don t think ll ever forget the Chamber of Commerce mi er where Peggy ance, the e ecutive director of Ocean estival cornered me and asked me to volunteer And never left, but how could you leave this family t s a great family to be a part of, and just love being part of it

Kelley Finney (right) reacts to being selected as the 2018 Dorothy Fuller Award, which is given to someone who shows exemplary commitment to Ocean Festival and volunteer work. Photo: Eric Heinz

od ryant, the overseer of the famous ubber uck aces, gave the reasons they chose inney for the award Our orothy uller Award recipient has worked ﬁendishly on athletic registration, implementing an electronic pre-registration aspect to the lifeguard and beach events, stand-up

paddle board and roms ule surf events and olphin ash, ryant said, adding to a laundry list of accomplishments of inney s inney also served as the Ocean estival foundations board treasurer for the past three years and that she always has a positive attitude and offers her assistance at ﬁrst chance,

which is the epitome of someone deserving of this award, ryant said At Ocean estivals orothy uller Award dinner, ance said the Ocean estival has been making healthy proﬁts so far on its -shirt and other merchandise sales, about , so far, and that number is e pected to rise ost of the funding for Ocean estival is garnered through corporate sponsorships, donations and various other ways to fund the some, according to its S forms it spends to host the event oney is also collected from registration fees his is a record year for us, ance said about the fundraising e have people out there selling products and we appreciate all the volunteers ance said there are sponsors this year for the Ocean estival he award is named after orothy uller, known as the mother of Ocean estival, who organi ed events in San Clemente in with the local lifeguards he festival had been sort of an unofﬁcial gathering in the years before then uller coined the phrase he reatest Show on Surf

Local Families Part of Sand Sculpting Competition for 33 Years BY ERIC HEINZ

or three families in San Clemente, the Ocean Festival sand sculpting competition is tradition. “We started in 1983, and it was myself, Norman Eisenbeisz and his wife, Loraine. It was a combination of my dad’s family as well as the Gallaghers and Websters, and we’re all related in some way,” Shayne Gallagher said. Norman died in 2017 at the age of 89, and the family placed a tribute banner in his name alongside their sculpture. It was more than 33 years ago that the families started participating in the sand-sculpting competition. “We were sitting on the curb on Del Mar during a parade that went down the street and saw something in the paper about Ocean Festival coming up with a new event, and we entered that ﬁrst year Albeit this was their ﬁrst try, Shayne said it was not a great

Walking on Water KING NEPTUNE RETURNS WITH MERMAIDS FOR CHILDREN’S PARADE BY ERIC HEINZ

The Eisenbeisz, Gallagher and Webster families join together in 2017 to celebrate Norman Eisenbeisz. Photo: Courtesy

castle, but they’ve been honing their skills for more than three decades. They’ve created different creatures of the sea and characters during that time. This year, Shayne said the sculpture design could be decided by the family as late as a couple days before the event. e re considering a hot-air balloon or maybe a jellyﬁsh or sea otter,” Shayne said. “It’s a really great way to have your family bond, and over the years the most popular things that we’ve done were characters from movies.” Sand sculpting takes place from 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, July 22 near the Youth Pavilion on the south side of the Pier.

hat friendly face with the big white beard and holiday charm is returning to Ocean Festival this year after being absent last year attending a Santa Clause convention. Between being king of the ocean, Ed Howie has been the ambassador of the festival for more than a decade and to young children who patron Ocean Festival. Howie was referred to the duty by a friend at the time of its inception. “They said, ‘Well, you have the looks,’” Howie said, regarding the offer from the Ocean Festival board. “(Neptune) is the one who does the parade with the children on Sunday, which is quite popular. And he’s king of the sea, and this is a sea event.” Howie said he loves seeing the joy on children’s faces when they see the prophetic sea king arrive on Sunday morning. The mermaid accompanying King Neptune is Kelley Green, who participated in the position last year. “With my dad as an avid surfer, it made sense to be a part of an organization and participate in an

event that is centered around the ocean and focuses on ocean conservation,” Green said. “The Ocean Festival is a great event where the community can come together and enjoy what the ocean has to offer, celebrating the beautiful place in which we live.” Look for King Neptune and Mermaid Kelley at Ocean Festival and at the Mermaid Parade at 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 22, at the Youth Pavilion.

Ed Howie returns as King Neptune at this year’s Ocean Festival. Photo: Eric Heinz. Kelley Green returns as a mermaid. Photo: Courtesy

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

Live Every Week like It’s ‘Shark Week’

he middle of summer is here and so are soaring temperatures. Most residents and tourists crowd San Clemente’s sandy beaches to beat the heat and splash in the saltwater—but not me. Years ago, I spent carefree summer days in the surf. But thanks to Peter Benchley and Steven Spielberg, those days are long gone. As a kid, I sat in a dark movie theater watching an unsuspecting Chrissie Watkins leave an evening beach party and run along the shoreline; when she reached the water, she jumped into the warm waves off Amity Island and into the jaws of a great white shark. Spielberg doesn’t show the shark in the opening scene of Jaws, but the thrashing attack haunts me and keeps me out of the murky ocean. Shark sightings in San Clemente and nearby Dana Point help fuel my fears. I know my worry is irrational, and statistics prove it is unjustified. According to the International Shark Attack File, in 2017 zero shark attack fatalities were reported in the United States. More people die from being struck by lightning or falling down the stairs. I have heard it all. But what I hear instead of logical reasoning is John Williams’ terrifying Academy Award-winning two-note score increasing in speed and intensity: Duuundun. Duuun-dun. Dun-dun-dun-dun. Despite my phobia, when my kids were young I didn’t discourage them from playing in the surf. To be honest, I also didn’t encourage them. I wasn’t the mom loading our car with chairs, towels, sunscreen, and boogie boards and joining beachgoers

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along the sandy shore. When my boys did splash in the seawater, it was usually on vacation. On our family trips, my kids spent fun-filled days snorkeling, swimming and bodysurfing while I kept watch from my beach chair for a powerful predator’s dorsal fin. I’m happiest spending my summer safe on the sand with a good book. My family loves to joke that the only time I am ever in the water on vacation is in the hotel shower. My selachophobia doesn’t seem to have a lingering effect on my LIFE’S A BEACH sons—well, maybe, it afBy Shelley Murphy fects my younger son. We are both obsessed with “Shark Week.” But, unlike me, my son’s fascination with sharks isn’t based on fear and phobia but curiosity and knowledge. As a youngster, my son started watching Shark Week and shared his favorite fun facts, including shiny jewelry attracts sharks because it can look like fish scales, and great whites can smell a drop of blood from 3 miles away. This month marks the 30th anniversary of the Discovery Channel’s summer pop culture phenomenon. Shark Week debuted in July 1988, airing memorable episodes such as, “Caged in Fear” and “The Shark Takes a Siesta.” Shark Week is often criticized by animal rights groups for perpetuating fear and sensationalizing sharks. I support their stance favoring a focus on conservation efforts and correcting misconceptions, but also admit my interest in Shark Week is selfish. This Sunday, Shark Week starts and enthusiastic fans will tune-in to watch action-packed adventures and explorations. I can’t wait for Shark Week to begin because it brings eight days of treasured time spent with my younger son. Together we’ll watch shark-centered programs, laughing at the fictionalized dramas

Pet of the Week: Lily SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S Lily. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

weet and as gentle as they come, Lily is a declawed 5-year-old feline looking for her forever home. She enjoys the quiet life and likes to be brushed. With her mellow personality, Lily could be the perfect friend for someone looking for loving lap cat. If you would like to know more about Lily, call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC

Sudoku BY MYLES MELLOR

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

and marveling at the wildlife footage. For a few days, I’ll ride the wave of nostalgia remembering my little boy cuddling next to me on the couch and curling-up closer as the shark closed in on its prey. After Shark Week ends, and the last great white swims out to sea, I’ll help my son pack his bags and prepare to leave home—again. I’ve learned that life with a college kid is a series of goodbyes; as time marches forward, farewells become more familiar but not much easier. Next month my son

See the solution in next week’s issue.

starts his senior year of college and his visits home become fewer and further apart. Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband for the past 18 years, where she raised her two sons. She’s a freelance writer and has been a contributor to the San Clemente Times since 2006. 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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On the Ball Former champion wiener dog looks to reclaim title BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

hat motivates a champion? For some, it’s fame and glory. For others, it’s the validation of the hard work put in. Some want the trophy and the title, to prove others wrong or to show that they are the best at what they do. More than a few might be looking toward a hearty meal after months of exercise and starvation. However, the latest champion athlete to live and train in San Clemente does not strive for any of these things. He scratches and claws for just one unique prize: his beach ball. Meet Finn, a 5-year-old racing dachshund and 2015 champion of the Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals at Los Alamitos Race Course. Finn earned third place in 2016 and had a tough 2017, but he’s coming back strong looking for the 2018 title of “Fastest Wiener in the West” in the 23rd edition of the event on Saturday, July 21 at Los Alamitos Race Course. Finn’s parents, Josh and Brittany Snook, first learned of the races from a friend while living in Los Angeles County. The event, which raises funds for the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, looked fun to the pair and they took Finn to some trial races to see how he’d do. The Snooks quickly realized that Finn

Sanden Awarded Third World Record BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

an Clemente resident Beth Sanden recently officially earned her third world record as Guinness awarded Sanden for the fastest aggregate time to complete a handcycle marathon on each continent by a female. Sanden officially completed her sevencontinent journey in June of 2016 and added the North Pole Marathon in April of 2016. Earlier this year, Sanden was awarded official world records as the first female to race in seven marathons on seven continents and the North Pole via handcycle and the fastest aggregate time

San Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

Left to Right: Finn races in the 2015 Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals at Los Alamitos Race Course. Finn won the 2015 title and is looking to get back on top in 2018. Finn’s parents, Josh and Brittany Snook, wear shirts and hats of support as they cheer on Finn in the Wienerschnitzel Weiner Nationals race at Los Alamitos Race Course. Photos: Courtesy

might have some talent but might need a different motivation to focus on the finish line. “We stood at the finish line with a bit of bacon and figured he’d go straight after that,” Josh said. “He went straight out of the gate, but he made a beeline to other people’s stuffed animals they were holding.” Finn had shown a major interest in playing ball in park time with the Snooks, so Josh and Brittany tested out the beach ball. They found a winner. “He goes crazy for the beach ball,” Josh said. “It’s not great for training because they have to keep being replaced, but he loves it.” Finn took to the major competition at the 2015 Wiener Nationals, and with Josh

and Brittany cheering on, wearing foam shark visors with “Finn” written on the side, he won straightaway with a time of 7.8 seconds in the 50-yard sprint. Finn won an A-frame Wienerschnitzel doghouse, a championship trophy, a blanket and a $1,000 cash prize. Finn took third place in 2016 and was bumped hard early in the 2017 to fall out of contention. Finn has kept hard at training, and while getting his beach ball is still primary goal No. 1, the Snooks know they have to pace the former champion. “We don’t give him the ball all the time, or else it wouldn’t be special,” Josh said.

for the same feat. Sanden suffered a severe injury during a bicycle race in 2002. She landed on her back and severed several vertebrae making her an incomplete paraplegic. Sanden’s marathon quest officially began with the Kilimanjaro Marathon in February 2012 to cross off Africa. Sanden completed Australia with the 2012 Ross Marathon in Tasmania, South America with the Lima, Peru Marathon in 2013, Europe with the 2014 Rome Marathon, North America with the 2014 Boston Marathon and completed the Antarctic Marathon in 2015. After a snafu with documents from the 2011 Great Wall of China Marathon, Sanden officially completed the seven continent list with the 2016 Pho Quoc Marathon in Vietnam. Sanden’s six-continent time is 30 hours, 12 minutes and 31 seconds, and with her North Pole time added, the aggregate time raced is 37 hours, 44 minutes and 11 seconds. SC

San Clemente resident Beth Sanden with her handcycle and three world records for completing handcycle marathons on all seven continents and the North Pole. Photo: Courtesy

Page 22

“But he knows. He can smell the beach ball in our bag, and he lights up. When he knows the ball is in the bag, he knows it’s go time.” The Snooks moved to San Clemente in December of 2017, and with plentiful park space and the extra benefit of beach training, Finn has had plenty of preparation. Finn would only be the third dog to win the event twice and just the second to win in nonconsecutive years, and he has the opportunity. Finn just needs to keep his eyes on the ball. For more photos and video of Finn’s training, check out www.sanclementetimes. com under the Sports tab. SC

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FOR SALE FINE MEDITERRANEAN AND TRANSITIONAL FURNITURE, DECOR AND PLANTS FOR SALE. Private moving sale and items from every room in the house! Priced from $50-$5000. send message to trenbeath5@cox.net for details. CUSTOM AREA RUGS You pick style, color and size. Typically made in 2 weeks.Stainmaster nylon, wool, polyester or designer carpet. Carpet showroom in Lantern District of Dana Point. Carpet and flooring remnants also available - all shapes, sizes and kinds of flooring. We sell tile too! Mike at Lantern Bay Carpets: 949.240.1545.

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Op-Ed: What’s Next for SONGS?

GROM OF THE WEEK

GERRIT BAKKER BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A surfer’s perspective from inside the offline nuclear power plant BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

t the start of summer, exactly the time the first south swell was hitting, I headed down to San O, but instead of swinging a right into the lot I went straight—straight into the guest parking for the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS). By a not-so-simple twist of fate, I’d been invited to join a tour of the plant. Apprehensive and curious, I’ve long wondered what goes on behind the walls there. I was about to find out. Our small tour group in June included San Clemente Green’s Gary Headrick, professor emeritus Dr. Roger Johnson and other locals, as we were checked in at the security office. Once cleared, we descended into the plant along with a heavily armed security detail. Ushered along by a team of Southern California Edison employees, we were obviously not free to wander. “That’s classified,” said the head of security when asked about the size of the omnipresent security detail. As the tour continued and we got closer to the reactors, the conversation turned to the amount of radioactive waste that is emitted by SONGS on any given day. With air vents at the top of both reactor domes and an undersea pipeline, Dr. Johnson pressed the issue. “We can’t say the number is zero,” explained one of the plant engineers, who was insistent that everything that comes out of the shuttered plant meets all Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) guidelines and rules. On June 7, 2013, SONGS officially began its decommissioning process. Since that time, 3.55 million pounds of spent nuclear fuel rods have been left to cool in the “pools” inside reactor Units 2 and 3. The rods that are in storage casks on-site at SONGS are now somewhere in the neighborhood of a “more manageable” 400 degrees centigrade after six years. The spent fuel is in the process of being removed from “wet storage” and put into “dry-cask storage.” The process has already begun in earnest and SONGS is filling a new storage cask at an average rate

San Clemente Times July 19-25, 2018

Southern California Edison engineers give a tour of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station in June. Photo: Courtesy of Southern California Edison

of one every 10 days. There will be 73 canisters filled and stored on site when the project is complete in 2030. Most of the fuel will be ready or cool enough to be transferred by 2020, and some of it can be transferred now. Unit 1 was taken offline in 2001, and there are currently 51 canisters of waste from that reactor stored on site. “There is no real-time monitoring,” we were told. “The storage units are checked for radiation once a quarter and we file a report with the NRC every year. If there was a leak, it would be very small and very slow, and we would be able to address it according to the plans we have in place.” While we’re literally standing on the platform that will soon hold all of these canisters, the impact of what’s being done took hold. “The reinforced concrete pad that the canisters are sitting on is about 3 feet above the water table,” were told. Keep in mind, the plant was designed around the mean low tideline. Edison boasts that there is a 30-foot seawall protecting the plant in case of a tsunami or other oceanic event, but that measurement is based on the water level at low tide and doesn’t take into account swell activity or sand flow. The canisters the waste is being stored in purportedly have a shelf life of 20 years, but it was explained to us, “That’s actually just the warranty. They could last as long as 60 or 100 years.”

The biggest problem facing SONGS, as well as other nuclear plants that will be going offline in the coming years, is that there is nowhere to permanently store the radioactive waste. Talks have been ongoing about constructing a storage facility somewhere in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona or Nevada, but at present nothing has been approved. The other part of the decommissioning process is the actual removal of the two domes that house Units 2 and 3. “By 2027 or 2029, they will be gone. All that will be left is the stored waste and some infrastructure that’s critical to the power grid,” explained an engineer. In the short-term, concerned citizens should push for improved monitoring and more transparency, but for now, the actual process of storing the waste on site will proceed unimpeded. Long-term, the U.S. government needs to address the situation and figure out a way to get nuclear waste out of communities and into safe, secure storage. That’s really where the fight will be in the months and years to come. Editor’s note: To comment on the decommissioning draft environmental report, which ends at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 28, submit them to ceqa.comments@slc. ca.gov. To review the EIR, visit www.slc. ca.gov and scroll to the bottom of the page to find San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) Units 2 and 3 Decommissioning Project, DEIR (6/18). Click on that for materials. SC

Page 26

t’s summertime and the living is definitely easy for 6-year-old Gerrit Bakker. Done and dusted with first grade at Palisades Elementary School in Capistrano Beach, the kid’s rolling through his summer vacation like a boss. With four years in the lineup already under his belt, Bakker’s already earning himself a spot in the lineups from Dana Point to San Clemente. “When I was 2-and-a-half, I started surfing Doheny,” Bakker said. “I stood up on my first wave and took it all the way to the beach to my mom.” The rest, as they say, is history. Well on his way to not only getting the surf thing wired, Bakker’s getting dialed in on all board sports. “I skate San Clemente, Blue Gate and Etnies Skatepark,” he said when asked what he does when he’s not paddling circles around his friends and family. “I also practice jiu-jitsu at Fight Strong MMA, snowboard and go fishing with my family.” And when it comes to his favorite thing about spending his days in the ocean, Bakker succinctly explained, “It splashes, it’s not hard like concrete and fish swim in it.” Splashing in the ocean, swimming with fish, that’s the good life—and the grom life. SC

Gerrit Bakker. Photo: Courtesy of the Bakker family

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 72-75 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair Thursday: Small SW/SSW swell provides ankle-knee high (1-2’) surf with occasional waist high (3’) sets at top breaks. Light/variable to light Southerly winds in the morning, light+ SW/WSW flow due in the afternoon. Outlook: Surf stays small on Friday (waist high or less) then a new SSW swell is on the rise over the weekend with fun size sets around shoulder-head high (4-5’). That swell peaks mid next week with solid surf in the head-double overhead+ zone (6-10’+). Be sure to check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.