LO C A L
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November 21-28, 2018 YO U
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Inside: 2018 Holiday Happenings & Gift Guide SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 13, ISSUE 47
Bird is the Word
1,000 turkeys donated to Camp Pendleton Marines for Thanksgiving E Y E O N S C / PAG E 4
San Clemente Military Family Outreach and volunteers delivered 1,000 Thanksgiving turkeys to the families stationed at Camp Pendleton on Monday, Nov. 19. Photo: Eric Heinz
SC Hospital Lawsuit Trial Scheduled for February EYE ON SC/PAGE 3
CoastLines: Mycle Brandy Is Not Giving Up SOAPBOX/PAGE 8
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC’s Steele Wins Coveted Baja 1000 SPORTS/PAGE 25
SC EYE ON SC San Clemente
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
What’s Up With...
County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) custody after allegedly striking a bicyclist while driving under the influence about 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 16. The collision, of which San Clemente’s OCSD branch showed pictures on Twitter, displayed images of a BMW sport utility vehicle and the damage to the front grill and bumper. The windshield was cracked beyond repair. Sheriff’s deputies said the bicyclist received non-life-threatening injuries. OCSD officials said the woman fled the scene on foot but was followed by witnesses, who led police to the suspect and resulted in her arrest. OCSD has not yet released her name.
Five things San Clemente should know this week
Workshop on Active-Shooter Incidents Held in Capo Beach
THE LATEST: The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce collaborated with chambers from San Clemente, Laguna Niguel and San Juan Capistrano to host the Active Shooter Response & Impact of Violence Training Workshop on Tuesday, Nov. 13, at Capo Beach Church. Speakers included Dana Point Police Services Chief Lt. Margie Sheehan, SWAT Team Leader and Investigator Shane Millhollon, as well as Heather Williams, regional peer support coordinator for Orange County Sheriff’s Department. “Ordinary citizens are now asking me whether I’ve cleared the hills or surrounding area before a major event in town,” Sheehan said. “The best thing I can do is to make this community the hardest target to hit.” The presentation referenced specific shooting incidents and what law enforcement was able to learn from them. “In a shooter situation, you can either run, hide or fight. There’s no certain way to know how you’ll react in a mass shooting, but being prepared and having a plan already gives you an advantage,” said Millhollon. WHAT’S NEXT: For more information on how to create a plan for a mass casualty or active shooter scenario in your business, agency or household, visit www.embassyconsultingservices.com. —Lillian Boyd
Firefighter, Deputy of the Year Honored by Exchange Club of San Clemente THE LATEST: There’s humble, and then there’s Deputy Christopher Lamberta, who was named the Deputy of the Year on Thursday, Nov. 15. Lamberta said this of his accolade: “.” Not much of a talker, Lamberta’s peers described him as the shining example of an officer who keeps calm under pressure—a man who goes about his business and makes little fanfare of it. But he looked green in the limelight. Lt. Mike Peters, chief of San Clemente Police Services, said during the ceremony that those who know Lamberta know public speaking is not his forte. San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
Deputy Christopher Lamberta, left, was honored as the Deputy of the Year, and firefighter Capt. Scott Lubben was honored as the Firefighter of the Year on Nov. 15 by the Exchange Club of San Clemente: Photos: Eric Heinz
WHAT’S NEXT: This is a developing story. More details will be provided when they become available. —EH
When the fellow sheriff’s deputies and firefighters nominate someone for their respective awards, “We typically will ask the deputy to tell us a little bit about themselves, to give us some information,” Peters said. “The man doesn’t speak. So, I spoke with his wife instead. She gushed so much about him, I couldn’t take notes fast enough.” Much of what his family said of Lamberta is that he’s been a dedicated family man—and workman, as he commutes from east Ortega Highway each day. Fire Capt. Scott Lubben, the Firefighter of the Year, was described as a mentor and a leader by Chief Brian Fennessy of the Orange County Fire Authority. “He came up in 2000, and with us he’s served every rank. He’s been excellent in all of them,” Fennessy said. Lubben was an engineer firefighter at Station 59 in Talega, and Fennessy said his willingness and ability to train new engineers helped OCFA tremendously. “(His) mechanical aptitude is such a huge value for what we do,” Fennessy said. This was the 44th year the Exchange Club has hosted the event.
City’s ‘Expert Witness’ to Hospital Lawsuit Dies, Replacement Sought for February Trial
WHAT’S NEXT: The Deputy and Firefighter of the Year awards will be presented next year in the 45th annual installment. —Eric Heinz
Aiden has what his mother, Karran, calls “the best form of cerebral palsy you can have,” and he has some other ailments, but he’s still able to keep up with his classmates and schoolwork at St. Edward’s Catholic School in Dana Point. But for the children who have to remain in the hospital longer than short surgical visits, some who don’t have “the best form of” something, Aiden remembers them and wants them to have a holiday worth remembering. “When we were (at the hospital) he said, ‘Mom, I want to buy toys for the kids who can’t go home,’ ” Karran said. Since July, Aiden has been collecting recyclable material and turning it into cash. Karran said he’s raised about $1,200 to purchase gifts for children at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Aiden had weeklong stays in the neonatal intensive care unit at CHOC, and sometimes he would be able to interact with the other patients, but other times he was isolated in his room. “He’s really worked hard on the recyclables and taking them and sorting them. He does the work, and I just drive the car,” Karran said. WHAT’S NEXT: Karran said she hopes to have the toys and gifts delivered to the hospital in the next two weeks. People who are interested in contributing to Aiden’s mission can drop off toys and other items at the San Clemente Police Services substation, located at 100 Avenida Presidio. Toys must be in their original packaging. Plush animals are not accepted. —EH
First-Grader with Cerebral Palsy Wants to Make Holiday Brighter for CHOC Patients THE LATEST: Aiden Toffelmier, 7, of San Clemente, has seen firsthand what it’s like to be a child spending days in a hospital bed when he’d rather be outside playing, hanging out with friends, even doing chores or homework—anything in a typical day for a 7-year-old.
Woman Arrested on Suspicion of Felony DUI Hit-and-Run after Striking Bicyclist THE LATEST: One woman is in Orange
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THE LATEST: The expert hospital evaluator and health care market expert the city tapped for its fight against a lawsuit from a former hospital operator has died, according to court documents related to the case. Pat Carroll of Pat E. Carroll and Associates, a health care industry consulting company, was supposed to provide the city with testimony that, presumably, would help its case against Memorial Healthcare Systems, which operated Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in San Clemente, until 2016. The lawsuit claims the city illegally spotzoned the land on which the hospital sits by requiring a hospital and only a hospital with emergency services could operate there, and it asks a judgment of $42.5 million the hospital operator claims it’s due because of the city’s actions. It appeared as though the case would be decided or at least discussed this spring or summer, but everything was delayed as the same federal judge, David O. Carter, overseeing the hospital lawsuit dealt with a lengthy case related to homeless populations in Santa Ana. “It was terrible. It was the day of his deposition, and he was late, and then his wife called,” said Scott Smith, the San Clemente city attorney. “He has a partner who is going to pick up where he left off and he needed time to get up to speed.” WHAT’S NEXT: On Oct. 29, the court finalized the case’s last pretrial conference and postponed litigation until a status conference on Feb. 11. The trial will take place starting at 8:30 a.m. on Feb. 26 at the Ronald Reagan Federal Building and United States Courthouse in Santa Ana. —EH www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton and volunteers helped with the distribution of turkeys and Thanksgiving sides on Monday, Nov. 19, during an annual event hosted by San Clemente Military Family Outreach. Photos: Eric Heinz
Bird is the Word 1,000 turkeys donated to Camp Pendleton Marines for Thanksgiving BY ERIC HEINZ, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
F
or more than a decade, San Clemente Military Family Outreach (SCMFO) has provided thousands of Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton and their families with Thanksgiving dinner. This year, more than 1,000 turkeys were donated through the foundation, and people were able to pick them up at a
giveaway on Monday, Nov. 19, at the base commissary. The Thanksgiving dinner giveaway at the base was started about 2002, said SCMFO president Clark Lashmett. It was started by Marine Lt. Col. William McReynolds and his wife, Sidonia. “After that, we organized into a group of several churches,” Lashmett said. “This year is kind of unique; we have about 80 volunteers helping us out with the bagging and helping people go through (the line), and most of those people are those we have assisted in previous years who want to give back.” SCMFO helps with various tasks that Marines may need help with, such as car repair and other needs. About 15 Marines helped out during the giveaway. Just last year, about 800 turkeys were donated, so the event has been growing.
If you break it down by the number of hours they’re on duty, Marines need to reach the rank of E-6 (staff sergeant) to make a wage that wouldn’t qualify for food assistance (depending on the number of family members each has in a household), meaning that the turkey dinner giveaways can really help during the holidays. “Even E-8s come through,” Lashmett said, adding the dinners provided include stuffing, canned goods, desserts and anything else to complete the meal. SCMFO will also hold its newly designed “Thank-a-Family,” a deviation from the usual “Adopt-a-Family” it has hosted. The foundation has already organized names of families who qualify, and they will match families with donors. Find out more information about the SCMFO organization at www.militaryfamilyoutreach.com.
FAM THANKSGIVING DINNER Family Assistance Ministries (FAM) will host a Thanksgiving community meal starting at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 21, at the San Clemente Community Center. People can help support the dinner by donating prepared dishes such as cooked turkeys (bring in a large disposable aluminum container); side dishes including mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, yams, veggies, mac and cheese, bread/rolls & butter; and pies and other desserts (bring in a disposable container). Supplies (knives, forks, spoons, disposable coffee cups, disposable containers, etc.) also can be donated. No Styrofoam. To sign up to bring a dish, contact Michelle Allen michellea@family-assistance. org or call 949.492.8477, ext. 115. Food needs to be delivered on Wednesday, Nov. 21. Bring turkeys between 3-4 p.m. and all other dishes can arrive between 3-5 p.m. SC
EYE ON SC
NEWS BITES
Community Meetings
COMPILED BY STAFF
CEP Meeting to Discuss Canister Incident at SONGS The San Onofre Community Engagement Panel (CEP) meeting is scheduled for 5:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 29, at the QLN Conference Center, located at 1938 Avenida Del Oro in Oceanside. The focus of the meeting will be on the changes Southern California Edison (SCE) is making following an Aug. 3 canister loading incident at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS), which SCE manages, as well as the path forward for re-starting fuel transfer operations. If you have questions related to canister handling that you would like addressed during the meeting, they can be submitted online at the website www. songscommunity.com. CEP officials said they will prioritize questions provided in advance. The meeting will include two publiccomment periods to allow the panel to hear from people in nearby local communities. Immediately following the presentation on canister handling, the panel will have a special public-comment period dedicated to follow-up questions regarding canister handling. In addition, the CEP will have a general public-comment period near the end of the meeting. More information can be found on the incident at www.nrc.gov under Spotlight on the homepage.
Ruby’s Diner Fundraiser Two times a year, Ruby’s Diner hosts a $2.99 burger and fries special to celebrate its namesake’s birthday in July and its anniversary in December. During these celebrations, Ruby’s donates $1 of every burger sold to the Ruby Dooby Foundation, which supports local children’s hospitals and other organizations working to better the health of children. The anniversary celebration/discount offer takes place Wednesday, Dec. 5. The Ruby’s Diner in San Clemente is located at the Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Vista Hermosa. Visit www.rubydoobyfoundation.org for more information.
SCHS Dance Team’s Winter Showcase The San Clemente High School Dance Team will present a one-night-only Winter Showcase and Boutique at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 30, at the school’s main gym. The community will get a first peek at the 18-time national championship SCHS Dance Team’s 2019 competition season San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22
THANKSGIVING DAY City offices will be closed Nov. 22 and 23 in observance of the holiday. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27
SCHS Dance Team at the United Spirit Association Nationals in April. Photo: Courtesy of James Chriss
dances at the Winter Showcase. The team will be joined in the show by many other dancers from the community, including the team’s fall kids’ clinic participants, dancers from the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, as well as San Clemente Dance and Performing Arts Center’s competition teams. Tickets for the Showcase are $15 for adults and $10 for students. Before the performance and at intermission, the public is invited to shop at a winterthemed boutique featuring local vendors with holiday gift ideas as well as a bake sale. The boutique is free and a portion of all gift and food sales will go back to the SCHS Dance Team to help provide the team with choreographers, costumes and cover travel costs. For more information about the SCHS Dance Team 2018 Winter Showcase and Boutique, visit the team’s website at www. schsdanceteam.com.
Outlets to Host ‘Moonlight Madness’ Southern California shoppers are invited to cap their Thanksgiving celebrations by starting their holiday shopping at Outlets at San Clemente, where retailers will open doors on Thanksgiving night. “Moonlight Madness” will take place 7 p.m.-midnight on Thursday, Nov. 22, and gives shoppers the chance to do their holiday shopping in a festive atmosphere highlighted by entertainment, prize drawings, giveaways, late-night happy hour offers and holiday décor among the various outdoor courtyards and promenades. This year, Outlets at San Clemente’s Center Court will turn into a starlit dance party with a guest DJ and disco vibes beneath the 80-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated by more than 8,000 twinkling lights. Shoppers can also enter the Prize Machine with a chance to win several grand prizes, including a $250 Tommy Hilfiger gift card, designer accessories, local attraction tickets, spa days, hotel getaways and more. Outlets at San Clemente is also giving thanks with a free $10 Outlets at San Cle-
mente Gift Card with the purchase of $150 or more on Thanksgiving night, and select restaurants and bars are offering late-night happy hour deals on food and drink.
Insurance Agent Accused of Embezzling Thousands of Dollars A former Dana Point State Farm insurance agent allegedly stole nearly $200,000 in insurance premium payments, leaving clients without coverage. Ann Garcia, also known as Anna Nuno-Garcia, 46, of Capistrano Beach, faces 40 felony counts of grand theft, according to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. A press release issued by the California Department of Insurance (CDI) reported that while working for an independently owned State Farm agency from September 2011 to November 2014, Garcia embezzled more than 300 checks totaling $195,626 by altering, endorsing or depositing them into her personal bank accounts. These checks were for payment of the customer’s insurance premiums or were premium refunds for the policyholder. Garcia allegedly used cash payments from some clients to purchase money orders to pay premiums for other clients and set up policyholders on unauthorized State Farm installment payment plans. Victims included extended family members and elderly State Farm customers. Garcia was arraigned on Nov. 5 at the Orange County Superior Court in Santa Ana. Bail was set at $20,000. This case was handled by CDI’s Investigation Division and is being prosecuted by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Garcia’s license expired in April 2018 for failure to renew.
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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 eheinz@picketfencemedia.com.
SUNRISE ROTARY 7:15 a.m. San Clemente Sunrise Rotary meets every Tuesday at Talega Golf Club Signature Grille. 990 Avenida Talega. www.scsunriserotary.com. 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. 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, NOVEMBER 28
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. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29
BUSINESS NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY 7-8:30 a.m. Beach Cities BNI will meet every Thursday. Open to all business professionals. $20 fee includes breakfast. Talega Golf Club, 900 Avenida Talega, San Clemente. 949.680.5005. www.socalbni.com/ en-US/index. SC EXCHANGE CLUB MEETING Noon. San Clemente Exchange Club meets on most Thursdays at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. Wedgewood Restaurant. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena. 949.412.6301. www.exchangeclubsc.org.
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SC SOAPBOX San San Clemente Clemente
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS CoastLines by Fred Swegles
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com
Forced into Hiatus, Mycle Brandy Knows ‘It’s Hard Giving Up’
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
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Real Estate Sales Executive > Jennifer Guy
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OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed General Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Tim Trent and Jake Howard
San Clemente Times, Vol. 13, Issue 47. 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 November 21-28, 2018
Mycle Brandy takes a walk on the San Clemente Beach Trail. Photo: Fred Swegles
I
f you spot 280-pound Mycle Brandy walking the beach trail with his cane in coming weeks, you may wonder, “Isn’t he supposed to be walking across America?” Well, yes he is. It turns out that a succession of wildfires in Wyoming aborted the 67-year-old San Clemente resident’s trek, after he had walked more than 300 miles hampered by one encounter with smoke after another. At first, medication prescribed by a doctor helped him continue. Then a third wildfire, a third doctor visit, delays related to his support vehicle and the onset of snow sent Brandy home with permanent damage to his right lung, compounded by pneumonia. Home now, the four-time stroke survivor isn’t giving up, having walked three different routes across the American landscape since 2010, visiting hospitals, intent on inspiring stroke victims to get off the couch. Brandy is already mapping out an alternate route he hopes to launch in late March. Advised not to put his lungs through a trek into brutally cold weather this winter, he plans to recuperate in San Clemente, train in mild weather here and pursue a relatively flat route from home in the spring, walking southwestern deserts into Texas and points east as the weather heats up. “The doctor said if I can avoid cold air, I should be OK,” he said. Brandy made news in 2010 by walking
2,940 miles across the country, dipping his toes into Upper Newport Bay for starters, then ending in Washington, D.C. eight months later with a toe dip into the Potomac River. He later walked up the West Coast from San Diego to Seattle, 1,450 miles, then the East Coast from Maine to Miami, 2,100 miles. On each walk, he visited hospitals, did news interviews, spread messages of hope and was joined along the way, for short distances, by inspired stroke patients. Efforts to complete a fourth cross-country trek COASTLINES have fizzled three times By Fred Swegles because of circumstances beyond his control. In 2014 and 2016, volunteer drivers of Brandy’s support RV had to return home due to emergencies, effectively canceling the walk he tried to restart in Wyoming this year. This time, Brandy and volunteer driver Sharon Tapp set out in September, well ahead of cold weather, only to be deluged and delayed repeatedly by smoke. Then, Brandy said, Tapp learned that her husband had a serious accident. They drove the RV to Denver, put her on a plane home to Arkansas, and Brandy asked if NolaKay Erman, a 2010 support driver from Ohio, could step in.
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She offered to, so Brandy and his wife, Louise, flew Erman to Denver, still hopeful of completing the planned 2018 trek even with Brandy’s impaired lung. He and Erman drove to Wyoming. But when snow set in, Brandy’s health wasn’t up to it. Erman drove him and the RV home to San Clemente. Brandy said he is confident he can complete a fourth walk across America. He rejected the notion of just driving the RV cross country visiting hospitals. Walking the walk is what inspires, he said, and he can surely do it, three miles at a time, take a break, another three miles, take a break, and so on. “It’s in my bones,” he said. “I have to walk.” And it’s not just about inspiring stroke patients, encouraging them to walk out to the mailbox tomorrow, then walk past the mailbox the next day. “It’s seeing the country a different way than when you drive,” Brandy said. “It’s having camaraderie with the truckers. Once I get on the news, people start waving at me, cars honking. I’ve seen a lot of beauty. It’s hard giving up.” Fred Swegles is a longtime San Clemente resident with more than 46 years of reporting experience in the city. 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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SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: Historical Happenings by Tom Marshall
City Documents Need Saving in Digital Format
A
s one of his last requests as San Clemente’s mayor, after not seeking re-election, Tim Brown is calling for the digitalization of the city’s original legal documents. Currently, hard copies of all city council minutes, resolutions and ordinances are stored in a city vault inside bound volumes. The historic significance of these documents is obvious. “These volumes apparently contain the only copy of the documents. I appreciate that they are stored in a protective environment, but what I want is for them to also be professionally digitized for their protection and easier reference in the future,” Brown explained as he displayed some of the items for us. We, at the Historical Society, couldn’t agree more. The volumes, mostly written on a typewriter, not only provide the required legal record of city decisions but interesting accounts of issues, large and small, that made up the fabric of early San HISTORICAL Clemente. The very first HAPPENINGS item on the first San By Tom Marshall Clemente City Council meeting agenda of Feb. 29, 1928 (yes, San Clemente was born in a leap year) was declaration of the organization of the city. At that same meeting, Ole Hanson, Jr. was nominated to be the first president of the city council. The title mayor didn’t come until later. Controversy swirled even on this first step of cityhood. Hanson declined the nomination, and Thomas Murphine was then selected as the first president. It appears the two board members were bitter foes, at least during later years. In the minutes of a board meeting in November 1933, Murphine “refused to refund $100 to the city for his services in a legal dispute between the city and John Forster.” “Hanson apparently took issue with this.
San Clemente Mayor Tim Brown examines documents stored by the San Clemente Historical Society. Photo: Tom Marshall
There are reports that a fistfight broke out,” the minutes stated. While this is not in the official record, city ordinance XLII was passed about the same time, “amending rules for conducting the proceedings of the city council and providing for the punishment of any member or any person for disorderly behaviour [sic] at any meeting and also for compelling the attendance of absent members.” But, back in the first few months of our city, the council quickly got down to business. Its first significant purchase was a fire truck (Resolution 5). On May
16, 1928, the council outlawed fireworks. Even then fire danger was a major concern in this area. The fireworks ban took effect a month before the council even approved a numbering system for houses on city streets. In short order, the council granted exclusive rights to sell bait and fishing gear on the Pier. It even granted exclusive rights to W.T. Davis and Son to transport people to and from the Pier for “Barge or Deep Sea fishing.” In addition, the council approved the purchase of a merry-go-round at the beach.
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
San Clemente Times Beachside Chat
CORRECTION: In the Nov. 15-20 edition of the San Clemente Times, the date of the video comment booth on the proposed toll roads by the Transportation Corridor Agencies was incorrect. It will be available from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 24, at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville.
Returns Friday, Nov. 30 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso Beachside chat will not take place Nov. 23 for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The next chat will take place at 8 a.m. on Nov. 30. 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.
CLARIFICATION: In the same issue, the meeting location for the next Community Engagement Panel changed a few hours after the San Clemente Times press deadline. The meeting will now be held at the QLN Center in Oceanside.
San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
These are but a few of the curious gems from our city’s official record. We in the San Clemente Historical Society support Mayor Brown’s call for digitizing these important records. Tom Marshall is a member of the board of directors of the San Clemente Historical Society and a retired journalist. SC
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SC GETTING OUT San Clemente
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
What’s going on in and around town this week 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 | 22 THANKSGIVING DAY, MARINES TOY RUN Most places will be closed for the holiday, but if you’ve got the itch to give, check out these sites where you can donate gifts to children, for ages 1 to 10, of the 2nd Battalion 4th Marines. Gifts can be donated at the San Clemente Chamber, 1231 Puerta Del Sol, suite 200; City Hall, 910 Calle Negocio; Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville; Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa; Ole Hanson Beach Club, 105 W. Avenida Pico; and Coastal Postal, 806 Avenida Pico. For large pick-ups, call Wayne Eggleston at 949.498.4958 or email heritage@ marinemonument.com.
Friday | 23 DHARMA YOGA HOUSE DONATION-BASED YOGA 6-7 a.m. Join for a donation-based morning Vinyasa yoga class every Friday at Dharma Yoga House. All levels welcome. Recommended donation of $5-$10. Dharma Yoga House. 34207 PCH. www.dharmayogahouse.com. 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. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.361.2855. Check their website for the latest performances scheduled. www.ivalees.com. ‘THE GAME’S AFOOT’ AT CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE 7:30 p.m. Mystery lovers, take note. The Cabrillo Playhouse presents a thriller in The Game’s Afoot, which takes place in a medieval castle, built over 100 years ago in Connecticut by Williams Gillette, who stars in this show. He was an actor who co-wrote Sherlock Holmes with Sir Arthur San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
EDITOR’S PICK Photo: File
THURSDAY, NOV. 22: DANA POINT TURKEY TROT 6-11 a.m. Run the race before you stuff your face. If you haven’t already registered, go to www.turkeytrot.com. Late registration is available online and onsite. Choose between two separate 5K races, a 10K and the Kid’s Gobble Wobble race. The first race starts at 8:30 a.m. Go online for more scheduling, prices and more. Call 949.496.1555 with questions or email turkey@danapointchamber.com.
Conan Doyle and also portrayed him on stage. The play takes place on a fateful Christmas Eve when an evening of revelry turns into a murder scene. The show runs through Dec. 2. Tickets are $20. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.
Saturday | 24 SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. The car show attracts hundreds of car enthusiasts each week. No registration is required and spectators are welcome. Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. www.southoccarsandcoffee.com. DIY ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For Small Business Saturday, San Clemente Art Supply will feature hands-on demos of acrylic pouring, marbling and greeting card projects, as well as other features. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real. 949.369.6603. www.scartsupply.com. DANA POINT HARBOR TOUR 2:30 p.m. Learn more about the Dana
Point Harbor, its ecology and its history on this family-friendly cruise. Cruise will go over such historical developments as Richard Henry Dana’s visit in the 1830s and the harbor’s rise as a well-known surf spot. Tickets for the cruise are $25 for adults and $10 for children. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org ‘THE GREAT CHRISTMAS RING’ 5 p.m. South County Community Handbell Choirs will perform “The Great Christmas Ring,” a gathering of over 20 local handbell musicians offering a free concert to the public to ring in the holiday season. Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa. www.schandbell.org.
Sunday | 25 FARMERS MARKET ON DEL MAR 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday. Avenida Del Mar. YOGA ON TAP SERIES 11 a.m.-Noon. Get to know your fellow yogis and beer drinkers at Yoga on Tap. $10 for an hour of yoga and pint of beer.
Page 10
Left Coast Brewing Co., 1245 Puerta Del Sol, San Clemente. 949.276.2699. www.leftcoastbrewing.com.
Monday | 26 FREE GUITAR LESSONS 5-6 p.m. Free beginner-level acoustic guitar lessons for middle-school to collegeage youth every Monday. Guitars provided or students can bring their own. 1040 Calle Negocio, San Clemente. 949.388.0114. coamusicarts@gmail.com. www.communityoutreachalliance.com. BINGO AT GOODY’S 7 p.m. Every Monday, Goody’s hosts a bingo night for a charity of the month. Cards are $1 per sleeve, and raffle prizes are offered. Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real. 949.492.3400. www.goodystavern.com.
Tuesday | 27 TABLE TENNIS FOR SENIORS 10 a.m.-1 p.m. All seniors 55 and older are welcome to join the Table Tennis Club (Cont. on page 19) www.sanclementetimes.com
Boat Rides with Santa
Holiday Happenings THURSDAY, NOV. 22 - FRIDAY, NOV. 23
Moonlight Madness Late Night Shopping Party 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. The San Clemente Outlets has turned the Black Friday shopping experience into a full-fledged party. Shoppers will be able to dance beneath the stars to DJs, sip holiday spirits at a late night happy hour and hop in a prize machine for the chance to win hotel getaways and more. 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.535.2323. www.outletsatsanclemente.com FRIDAY, NOV. 23
A Charlie Brown ChristmaS 8 p.m. Catch opening night of this classic at Camino Real Playhouse that has Charlie Brown and his pals Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and other members of the Peanuts gang do a play, save a tree and find out what the true meaning of Christmas is. The play will run through Dec. 22 and tickets are $27. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.8082. www.caminorealplayhouse.org SATURDAY, NOV. 24
Small Business Saturday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Take a stroll along Avenida Del Mar and get some holiday shopping done while supporting Downtown San Clemente’s businesses for Small Business Saturday. Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.218.5378. www.villagesanclemente.org. TUESDAY, NOV. 27
2018 Marbella Country Club Annual Holiday Boutique 12-8 p.m. Spend a day shopping for unique items from small business owners, then sit down for a lunch buffet. A fashion show will commence at 1 p.m. Prizes throughout the day. Tickets for the lunch buffet are $35 and support Saddleback Valley Christian School. 30800 Golf Club Drive, San Juan Capistrano. 949.248.3700. www.marbellacc.net. SATURDAY, DEC. 1
‘Santa Paws’ Photos 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Bring your four-legged companion with you to get some pictures with Santa Claus. Pictures will be taken in the El Torito Courtyard. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com.
10 a.m.–2 p.m. Head down to the Dana Wharf Docks for a free boat ride with Santa. No reservation is necessary. Boat rides will happen at the same time on Dec. 2 as well. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com
City of San Juan Capistrano Christmas Celebration 4-5:45 p.m. Head to the Historic Town Center Park for an evening of entertainment and a Christmas tree lighting. Free parking and event shuttle service is available. 31872 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.5911. www.sanjuancapistrano.org.
A Christmas Concert 4 p.m. Enjoy music of the Christmas season at San Clemente Presbyterian Church with a concert featuring a chamber orchestra, Christmas choir, children’s choir, hand bells and a worship band. Shop a gift fair afterward. 119 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente. 949.492.6158. www.scpres.org.
Christmas at The Mission 5:30-8 p.m. Join Mission San Juan Capistrano for its first-ever Christmas tree lighting. Las Golondrinas restaurant will be serving savory tamales and 3:16 Bakery will be serving hot cocoa and sweet treats. Tickets are $7. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. www.missionsjc.com
Winter Festival and Tree Lighting 12-5:30 p.m. Head to La Plaza Park in Dana Point for holiday activities including carnival games, a craft fair, face painting, a petting zoo, a Lego Santa’s Village Workshop and more. The annual tree lighting will take place at 5:15 p.m. Free cookies and hot chocolate will be served. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. 949.248.3536. www.danapoint.org.
Christmas at The Casa 5-7:30 p.m. See Casa Romantica decorated for the holidays during this free open house event, which will feature live music, choral groups, kids’ crafts, refreshments, a talking tree and the jolly man himself – Santa Claus. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org
Puttin’ on the Glitz 5-8 p.m. Head to downtown San Clemente for an evening of shopping, dining and visit with Santa Claus and holiday carolers. Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.218.5378. www.villagesanclemente.org. SUNDAY, DEC. 2
Merry Monarch – A Festive Tree Lighting 3-5:45 p.m. Enjoy musical performances put on by students, cocoa and cookies and visits with Santa Claus at this Monarch Beach Resort event. The evening will conclude with the official lighting of a holiday tree presented by Ellen K of radio station KOST. Proceeds from the event go to support The Care Foundation, which raises funds for local schools. Ticket options begin at $10. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point. www.monarchbeachresort.com
Holiday Lights Viewing Party
Holiday Happenings continued
SUNDAY, DEC. 2
Yappy Howl-iday Celebration 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Canines will have a great time at this holiday-themed “yappy hour” at The Ritz Carlton, which will have them lapping up meat or vegan-flavored libations while their human companions enjoy wine, beer or a cocktail. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.
Capistrano Lights at Mission San Juan Capistrano 5 p.m. Mission San Juan Capistrano will be having a nightly tree lighting each night from Dec. 2 through Jan. 6, 2019. Visitors must be on the grounds before 5 p.m. to enjoy the lighting experience. Tree lighting will not take place Dec. 24, 25 and 31. $7 for children and $10 for adults. 26801 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 5
Tree Lighting at Pines Park 4-6 p.m. Head to Pines Park at Capistrano Beach for free family activities, hot chocolate, cookies and tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point. 949.248.3502. www.danapoint.org. FRIDAY, DEC. 7
The Nutcracker at Casa Romantica 7-8 p.m. See the holiday classic The Nutcracker performed by the Orange County Ballet Theater in the cozy Main Salon of the Casa. Tickets are $40. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org
Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights 7:30 p.m. Boaters will decorate their boats to vie for awards and light up the harbor with a parade. Event also happens at the same time on the Dec. 8, 14 and 15. People can watch the parade for free anywhere in the harbor or make reservations to view it from one of the nearby restaurants. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com
Take a Santa Selfie 4:30-7:30 p.m. Bring your your cameras to the Dana Point Harbor to get a selfie with Santa. The event will also take place on Dec. 8, 14 and 15. Dana Point Harbor, Dana Point. 949.923.2255. www.danapointharbor.com
6:30-9 p.m. Join the Ocean Institute for hot cocoa (bring your own mug), gold panning, country line dancing and other activities as part of their annual viewing party for the Dana Point Harbor Drive Boat Parade of Lights. Tickets for the party are $15. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. www.ocean-institute.org FRIDAY, DEC. 14
2nd Annual Holiday Concert 7:30 p.m. The Dana Pointy Symphony will be having its second annual Holiday Concert. Guests will be able to hear a number of classic holiday hits during the concert, not only from the symphony itself, but also from the Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church Choir. Tickets are $25 general admission and $20 for seniors, students younger than 18 and active military. www. danapointsymphony. com. 33926 Calle La Primavera, Dana Point. SATURDAY, DEC. 15
Gingerbread House Making 10-11 a.m. Have your kiddos experience some old-timey holiday magic at Casa Romantica by having them make ginger bread houses using gingerbread, frosting and candy. Event is free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. www.casaromantica.org. SUNDAY, DEC. 16
Gingerbread House and Holiday Cookie Decorating 2-4 p.m. Get your family together at The Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel to make gingerbread houses and holiday cookies. Children can enjoy complimentary hot chocolate. Other drinks are available for purchase. The cost is $175 per Gingerbread House. Call to reserve your space. 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point. 949.240.2000. www.ritzcarlton.com THURSDAY, DEC. 20
Christmas Bird Counting at The Reserve 8 -11 a.m. Head to The Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo and participate in the annual Audubon Christmas bird count. More than 80 species of birds have been seen at The Reserve in previous years. Participants are encouraged to visit Audubon’s website to learn more about the event, one of the oldest “citizen science” events in the country. 28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano. 949.489.9778. www.rmvreserve.org MONDAY, DEC. 31. – JAN. 1
New Year’s at San Juan Hills Golf Club 8 p.m. – 1 a.m. Ring in the New Year at San Juan Hills Golf Club with a DJ and a special guest band. The event will feature tapas, appetizer stations and a Champagne toast. Guests will be able to take home a souvenir photo from a New Year’s-themed photo experience. Tickets are $100. 32120 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.1167. www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com.
Cool PIcks: gift ideas for everyone on your list
AT-LP60 turntable
$99.99
Holiday Offer $9 a unit for Xeomin ® or $10 a unit for Botox ®
Moldy Toes Records 217 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.444.8275 facebook.com/moldytoesrecords
Riviera Laser Studios 34189 Pacific Coast Hwy., Ste. 201 Dana Point • 949.370.3177 rivieralaser.com
Stone Skulls – Sold Separately
Malachite – 1 ¾” x 1 1/8” • Pyrite – 2” x 7/8” Chevron Amethyst – 2” x 1 ¼” • Sodalite – 3” x 5 ¾”
Wine Tasting Gift Certificates & Bottles 10% off wine bottles to go
Designs By Nature 400 South El Camino Real, A San Clemente • 949.498.8358 designsbynature.com
Five Vines Wine Bar 31761 Camino Capistrano, Ste. 11 San Juan Capistrano • 949.800.9145 fivevineswinebar.com
Audio-Technica Turntable
$40.00-$1250.00
Also Offering Craft Beer and food
GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 10) at the Shorecliffs Terrace Mobile Home Park. Any skill level is welcome and entry is free. 3000 Calle Nuevo, San Clemente. 949.481.2275. jnl5555@yahoo.com. OPEN MIC NIGHT 6-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at The Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. Bring your instrument and your voice; The Point supplies the sound system. 34085 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point. 949.464.5700. www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.
Wednesday | 28 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 invited 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
At the Movies: ‘Widows’ Steals the Show BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
F
or the past 10 years, filmmaker Steve McQueen (not to be confused with the old Hollywood star) has proven himself to be versatile. Beginning with the dark character studies of Hunger (2008) and Shame (2011) with Michael Fassbender, to Chiwetel Ejiofor’s traumatic journey in 12 Years a Slave (2013), to now Widows, currently in theaters, McQueen is 4-for-4. In modern-day Chicago, four women are in over their heads, faced with the fact that all of their husbands led lives of crime and acquired debt. Veronica Rawlings (Viola Davis), Linda Perelli (Michelle Rodriguez), Alice Gunner (Elizabeth Debicki) and Amanda Nunn (Carrie Coon) are all now widowed and on the verge of being blackmailed by their murdered spouses’ enemies. Veronica has a plan to get revenge and
Photo: Courtesy of Suzanne Tenner/20th Century Fox Film Corp.
conspire to start life all over. Amanda chooses to sit it out, while single mom Belle (Cynthia Erivo) is up for the challenge. The actresses of Widows are backed by some seriously stellar casting: Liam Neeson, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell and Daniel Kaluuya all have roles. Considering the weight of a movie with this many characters, this could have easily been bloated, cliché and confus-
ing. But McQueen was smart and got Gillian Flynn of Gone Girl (2014) and Sharp Objects (2018) to co-write the script. Flynn has a knack for giving her stories enough twists and turns to success. The characters just keep getting better and better by the end. Of all the fine performances, Debicki and Erivo are the big standouts here. This Thanksgiving weekend, Widows is a watch for the grown-up viewers. SC
SC San Clemente
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GARAGE SALES
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 5pm Monday. NO PHONE CALLS.
HELP WANTED ACCOUNTING
Chris W. Johnston, CPA, MBA 34184 Pacific Coast Highway Dana Point, 949.240.8015, www.cwjcpacorp.com
ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT
Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program
665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 949.485.4979, www.bodymindspiritiop.com
AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING
Solstice Heating and Air
2208 El Camino Real, Ste. #1, 949.573.3607, www.solsticehvac.com
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San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
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Schmid’s Fine Chocolate
99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com
CONCRETE
HOME REPAIRS/IMPROVEMENT
Capistrano Valley Raingutters
LANDSCAPING
Costa Verde Landscape
Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
MUSIC LESSONS
Danman’s Music School
949.496.6556, www.danmans.com
Panagia Music: Music Lessons and More!
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD
Colony Termite Control
Organics Out Back
949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com
ELECTRIC BIKES
Murf Electric Bikes
212 N. El Camino Real, 949.370.3801, www.murfelectricbikes.com
ELECTRICAL
Arcadia Electric
949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com
SCHOOLS
We also offer professional appraisals, auction services, restoration and shipping. CASH SAME DAY Dee Coleman, CEO/Owner 2485 S. El Camino Real San Clemente
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
949.493.5683, 32032 Del Obispo Street, www.cvcs.org
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Web: classicautosalesoc.com Email: classicautosalesoc@gmail.com
100% positive EBAY Seller since 2001!
949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
WINDOW & DOOR REPLACEMENT
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso
San Clemente Website Design
Offshore Construction
114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
877.774.1492, www.offshoreconstruction.org
HELP WANTED-RDA/RDAEF We have a beautiful, modern office, a wonderful patient population, an enthusiastic team and a sincere periodontist dedication to quality care. Three to four days a week, possible leading to full-time. Previous dental experience, a great attitude and strong work ethic are our first priority. Bilingual is a plus! Please send resume and a paragraph about yourself to: southcountyperio@aol.com. We look forward to meeting you.
PEST/TERMITE CONTROL
Exquisite Epoxy Concrete Floor Coatings
EDIBLE LANDSCAPING
949.395.5681 (24 hours) Available 7 days a week.
HELP WANTEDDANA POINT MARINA INN Dana Point Marina Inn is looking to fill the following opening: Front office/reservations/desk clerks (AM and PM shifts) Housekeeping Supervisors (Full Time - Days) Dana Point Marina Inn Apply in Person at 24800 Dana Point Harbor Dr Dana Point, Ca 92629 949-496-1203
1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com
949.837.6483, www.accuratetermitecontrol.com
647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com
217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
Buy • Consign • Sell
949.705.7573, panagiamusic@gmail. com, www.panagiamusic.com
Accurate Termite and Pest Control
Eric Johnson, D.D.S.
Syrens Hair Parlor
Paradise Jewelers
Lic.: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
DENTISTS
207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com
JEWELRY 166 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.6661, www.paradisejewelers.com
SALONS
Salon Bleu
Scott Williams, 949.542.7750
Costa Verde Landscape
Lic.: 1020002, 949.632.8400 exquisiteepoxy.com
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
PLUMBING
A to Z Leak Detection
1001 Calle Recodo, 949.481.7013, www.atozleakdetection.com
Bill Metzger Plumbing
1001 Calle Recodo, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzerplumbing.com
REALTORS
“Sandy & Rich” RE/MAX Coastal Homes
949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com
Scott Kidd, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services 949.498.0487, skidd@bhhscal.com
Sherry Wild, LuXre Realty
BRE # 01480453, 949.275.8937 www.LuXreRealty.com
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San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
Page 21
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC SC LIVING San Clemente
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love after 50 by Tom Blake
Having a Sling in Singapore before Noon
I
never drink alcohol before noon, and the thought of drinking something stronger than beer or wine before that time is even more unfathomable. And the thought of my partner, Greta, sitting on a barstool next to me also having an adult beverage before noon just doesn’t fly. She barely drinks at all. Maybe I had illusions of being Ernest Hemingway, writing a scene for a novel, just as he did when he frequented the very bar where Greta and I were seated. A little background is in order. When Greta and I booked the 82-day cruise we are on, she circled Nov. 11, my birthday, on her calendar, noting that the ship would be docked in Singapore on that day. Greta had been in Singapore twice in the early 1980s and had become familiar with the famous Long Bar at the Raffles Hotel. Writers such as Hemingway, Rudyard Kipling, and W. Somerset Maugham used to drink and write there. In 1915, a bartender at the Long Bar named Ngiam Tong Boon, invented the Singapore Sling, a gin-based cocktail that has become famous the world over. Greta circled the calendar because she thought it would be special to take me, a writer and columnist, to the Raffles Hotel Long Bar for a drink on my special day. But, not long after setting sail, we heard that the famed Raffles Hotel was closed, undergoing a major renovation. Her plan
to treat me to a Singapore Sling in the very bar where it was invented was dashed. But then we heard in a presentation by the ship’s Cruise Guide, Ian Page, that, while the Raffles Hotel was indeed closed, the Long Bar was open. So, on that Sunday morning, Nov. 11, after attending a moving Armistice Day Memorial Wreath Service aboard ship, Greta and I ventured into Singapore. I had mastered the Singapore MTR subway system the day before so getting there in this city of eight million people was a snap. We both had subway Tourist Guest Passes, which meant we could get on and off the trains as often as we wanted. The cost was about $7 each for the day. Our first stop was to visit the famous Merlion statue, a 27-foot-tall, 70-ton historic landmark featuring a lion’s head and fish-like body with water spewing from its mouth into the SinON LIFE AND gapore River. It is the LOVE AFTER 50 symbol of Singapore. By Tom Blake And then we relaxed in the Courtyard of the Fullerton Hotel, a gorgeous building located close to the Merlion. There were six McLaren sports cars parked at the hotel, including a yellowcolored one. The owner was standing next to it; he said the car had a mere 750-horsepower engine and retailed at $750,000. Next, we made our way to the shuttered Raffles Hotel and followed the signs to the Long Bar. And as if on cue, whom do we run into there? Tour Guide Ian, who was taking pictures for the travel presentations he does on board. Because it was early, we were able to score two seats at the bar itself—something that’s hard to do because that is the
San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
Every week, the San Clemente Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
“in” place to sit. There is a burlap bag of peanuts on the bar top in front of each bar stool; it’s a tradition at the Long Bar to toss your peanut shells on the floor. Bartender Jonathan whipped up a couple of Singapore Slings for us. The time on the clock behind the bar was 11:55 a.m. Was it worth the tourist-driven, $26 price tag for each Sling? For a once-in-a-lifetime stop at the Long Bar in Singapore, for its famed namesake cocktail—yes, it was. There we were, each having a Singapore Sling before noon on my birthday—you only
live once. Greta was thrilled. Her plan to treat me in Singapore had materialized, after all. Tom Blake is a Dana Point resident and a former Dana Point businessman who has authored several books on middle-aged dating. To receive Tom’s weekly online newsletter, sign up at www.findingloveafter50.com. Email: tompblake@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our 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.
BY MYLES MELLOR
Last week’s solution:
SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Molly. Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter
FROM THE ARCHIVES The former mayor of San Clemente’s home was heavily damaged in the 1933 Long Beach earthquake that rattled the California Coast.
Sudoku
Pet of the Week: Molly
S
Photo: Courtesy of Calisphere/Thomas Pulley Collection
even-year-old Molly is a happy German Shepherd mix that is looking for her forever home. She has a sweet personality and loves being active outdoors. Molly is potty-trained and would make a great companion for family members of any age. If you would like to know more about Molly, please call the San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter at 949.492.1617 or visit with her at 221 Avenida Fabricante, San Clemente. SC
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
Page 22
See the solution in next week’s issue.
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING
80-Foot Wonder Outlets at San Clemente debuts its holiday tree with annual celebration SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Thousands of people attended the Outlets at San Clemente’s fourth annual Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, Nov. 17, which was hosted by Santa and his reindeer. The event featured a live reindeer meet-andgreet and a special “snow” fall over San Clemente with the lighting of the 80-foot, fresh-cut tree covered in more than 8,000 twinkling, multicolored lights. Other entertainment included roaming Christmas carolers, a performance by local musician Tom Solis, hot cocoa, a holiday photo booth, children’s activities, face-painting and balloon animals. SC
Thousands of people attended the Outlets at San Clemente’s fourth annual Tree Lighting Celebration on Saturday, Nov.17. Breana Ayala enjoys the merry and bright decor during Outlets at San Clemente’s fourth annual Tree Lighting Celebration. San Clemente residents Willow Rawlins and Chelsea Rawlins enjoy the merriment during Outlets at San Clemente’s fourth annual Tree Lighting Celebration. Photos: Courtesy of Kait McKay Photography
SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Steele Wins Family’s First Baja 1000
After 47 years of family racing, Cameron Steele finally wins prestigious desert race
BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T
he Steele family has been racing in Baja California for 47 years. Family patriarch Mark Steele began racing in Baja in 1971. Cameron Steele, Mark’s son, began racing in 1985 and started racing trophy trucks in 2005. Mark, Cameron, Cameron’s wife and Cameron’s brother had all won their classes at the prestigious Baja 1000, but no Steele truck had ever been the fastest in the Baja 1000 as of Mark’s passing in July. That changed last weekend. Cameron Steele of San Clemente crossed the finish line first in Ensenada and completed the 806.76-mile race in 16 hours, 24 minutes and 2 seconds to claim the overall four-wheel vehicle and SCORE Trophy Truck race victories in the 51st SCORE Baja 1000. “I don’t really know how it feels,” Steele said. “It’s crazy. Your brain can’t process it. You put so much into it. It’s kind of hard to fathom. It’s huge to put the Steele name and Desert Assassins on the board.” The Baja 1000 is the longest continuously held desert race in the world and the final of four races in the SCORE Desert
Triton Report
BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For in-game updates, news and more for all San Clemente High School sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SOUTHOCSPORTS.
Catsimanes Runs On to State Championships The San Clemente cross country program will be represented at the CIF State Championships on Saturday, Nov. 24 at Woodward Park in Fresno. The Tritons’ boys and girls running teams San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
Clockwise from left. Cameron Steele’s Monster Energy Desert Assassins Ford Raptor built by Geiser Bros. launches on the course of the Baja 1000 last week in Mexico. Photo Courtesy of Baja HQ. Cameron Steele (center) celebrates his win at the 51st SCORE Baja 1000 in Ensenada. Steele won the overall four-wheel vehicle and SCORE Trophy Truck races. Photo Courtesy of Baja HQ. Cameron Steele’s Monster Energy Desert Assassins Ford Raptor built by Geiser Bros. takes on the course of the Baja 1000 last week in Mexico. Photo: GETSOMEphoto
World Championship. Steele and his team didn’t take the overall championship, but winning the Baja 1000 alone is more than enough for Steele. “Nothing compares,” Steele said. “In name recognition, right there with Indy 500, Daytona 500. It’s true for our series that it’s all about the Baja 1000.” Steele split the driving duties on the Monster Energy Desert Assassins Ford Raptor built by Geiser Bros. with Pat Dean of Las Vegas. Dean drove through mile 538, and Steele finished it off to claim his second career SCORE Trophy Truck win and second consecutive after winning Septem-
both competed at the same CIF-SS Finals for the first time in a long time, but it was junior Hana Catsimanes that again rose above the pack in the Division 1 Finals on Nov. 17 at the Riverside Cross Country Course. Catsimanes conquered the course in a strong 17:03 to finish seventh in Division 1 and be named First Team All-CIF. It was the best San Clemente finish at the CIF-SS Finals since Melissa Eisele’s senior run to fifth place in 2013. Catsimanes will be the first Triton to run at State since Kelsey Carroll ran as a senior in 2014 and the first Triton junior to run at State since Eisele in 2012. The San Clemente girls placed 18th in Division 1 with sophomore Keslie Yamano being the only other Triton in the top 100 among the 174 runners. Yamano’s time of 18:43 was one second off a season’s best, good for 83rd. The San Clemente boys finished 14th, with
ber’s Tijuana race. The heart was in it for Steele maybe more than most, as he rode with the ashes of his father, Mark, firmly secured in the back seat. “I felt like I got it done for my dad,” Steele said. “I just felt this calm feeling the whole day as long as we did our best, no one would beat us. Maybe it was dad there; I’m not sure what it was.” Being calm is important over a lengthy race where problems are sure to arise. There was a major issue early in the race at mile 140 where the truck lost its first gear and eventually its reverse. On a day filled
with slot canyons and silk sand, Steele and his team had to be extremely careful without the ability to back out of any problem. Steele will show off his winning truck unwashed at South OC Cars and Coffee on Saturday, Nov. 24 from 9-11 a.m. at the Outlets in San Clemente. San Clemente was well represented in the results from Baja. Justin Munyon helped pilot a second-place finish in Class 1. Roger Malcolm was the lead driver on a secondplace finish in Class 8. Johnny Campbell helped drive a second-place finish in Class 7. Ian Young helped mount a second-place finish in the Pro Moto Unlimited. SC
and 15:43.1, respectively.
Costello Named League MVP, Ten to First Team
SCHS junior Hana Catsimanes (left) ran at the CIFSS Finals on Nov. 17. Photo: Zach Cavanagh
four runners in the top 100 in the field of 185. Senior Elijah Sech again paced the Triton efforts with a time of 15:27 for 57th place, and junior Caleb Mettler had a time of 15:38 for 73rd. Senior Denilson LopezGuerrero and sophomore Bodey Horspool finished only four spots and less than two seconds apart in 79th and 83rd at 15:41.8
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San Clemente senior quarterback Brendan Costello was named the South Coast League MVP last week in a vote by the league’s coaches. This season, Costello completed 63 percent of his passes for 2,328 yards and 22 touchdowns with only five interceptions; he also rushed for 658 yards and nine touchdowns on 108 carries. Costello was one of 10 Tritons named to the first team. Seniors Jaydel Jenkins, Wakely Lush, Jay Baggs and RJ Donaldson were all named to the first-team offense, and seniors Charlie Bein, Ray Ferrell, Harrison Thomas and Ryan Altman and junior Preston Rex were named to the first-team defense. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SC San Clemente
SC SURF
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
Dane Gudauskas, a San Clemente resident and part of the Positive Vibe Warrior organization, pushes a child into the surf at a break in Trinidad and Tobago. Photo: Courtesy of Jimmy Wilson/Vans
Reason to Be Thankful—— Caribbean Style Positive Vibe Warriors raise over 200 surfboards for Trinidad and Tobago BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
K
eeping the vibes alive as we roll into the holiday season, Dane and Tanner Gudauskas recently returned from their latest mission to deliver surf-
boards to people who can’t afford quality boards. Over the summer, the brothers were able to raise more than 200 surfboards through their Positive Vibe Warrior Foundation (PVW). In the past, they’ve done board drives for Jamaica and South Africa. This time around, their eyes were set on the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago. Teaming up with Trinidad surfer Chris Dennis, their efforts resulted in what’s being heralded as the biggest donation of sporting equipment in the country’s history. Dennis grew up in a rural, relatively forgotten corner of Trinidad. Living a subsistence life of farming and fishing, his family lacked the means to acquire a board for Dennis—or even an old surf mag. He spent years reading about Duke
Kahanamoku and other surfers in a few old encyclopedias. “I was attacked by a shark before I became a surfer,” Dennis said during a recent interview about the PVW surfboard drive. “For my family, the ocean was a place to get food; that’s it. When I was very young, I was already spearfishing and rock-fishing.” His first board came when a storm hit the island. “It blew down a tree, and there was this big splinter that sort of looked like a surfboard,” Dennis said. Armed with only a machete, he hacked the “blank” out of the tree and crafted a crude board. “I don’t even know how big it was,” he said. “It didn’t have fins. But I finally had a surfboard.” Dennis embraced the journey to become a surfer wholeheartedly. Overcoming the odds, he was able to pick up sponsorships and at one point climbed to 144th on the WSL’s Qualifying Series. Today, Dennis dedicates his time and resources to helping Trinidad and Tobago’s next generation get into the ocean. “He is the man. He’s an absolutely incredible person, and we are so lucky to have linked up with him,” Dane Gudauskas said after returning from Trinidad. “I hope they don’t think I was crazy, but I had a notebook with every kid’s name, age, height and weight and what surfboard they were going to get,” Dennis said, laughing. “I knew exactly who was getting what board and why they deserved to get their very own board.” Like previous PVW board drives, Dennis will use this windfall to help kids learn to surf as well as how to deal with social issues, including poverty, drugs, crime and domestic abuse. He’s been reading
and learning more about how to counsel children lately. “This is our third board drive, and each one is special, but this was really unique because this area gets so little attention. It’s forgotten about,” Dane said. “We were told that this was the biggest donation of sporting equipment in the country’s history.” As a result of the board drive, Dennis has been connected with a South African organization called “Waves For Change.” Helping disenfranchised youth in some of the poorest communities in the country, it was one of the beneficiaries of the PVW’s “Can’t Steal Our Vibe” board drive last year. In February, the group will fly Dennis from Trinidad to South Africa to work and train with them, so he can experience how their organization works and how they’re using surfing to heal their nation. “It’s so powerful. It’s more than surfboards. It’s a lot more,” Dane said, marveling at the mission. “It’s building these surf communities in ways that are so profound.” Vans has produced a film about the PVW’s South Africa board drive that was just released worldwide on iTunes. All proceeds will go to Waves For Change. And true to Gudauskas form, they have more positivity and inspiration on tap. Vans is also going to be working on a video project that will document the journey of a few of the surfboards from the Trinidad board drive. They will tell the story of the people who previously owned the boards and how they’ve affected the lives of the kids who received them. For the next month, Dane, Patrick and Tanner Gudauskas will be hunkered down on the Hawaiian island of Oahu for the annual Triple Crown of Surfing. No doubt they’ll also be passing along the positivity while they’re there, too. SC
SURF FORECAST
GROM OF THE WEEK BELLA KENWORTHY BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
O
ne weekend, three wins. Dana Point’s Bella Kenworthy is a force to be reckoned with, whether she’s on a surfboard or a skateboard. During the first weekend of November, Bella entered the 2018 Exposure skate contest at the Encinitas Skatepark and dug deep to win the Exposure Bowl 14-andunder division. At only 11 years old, it was a huge win for her and illustrates just how talented she is. The purpose behind the Exposure event San Clemente Times November 21-28, 2018
Bella Kenworthy. Photo: Courtesy of NSSA
was to help raise awareness and visibility for women who skate. This year, more than 150 competitors entered the two-day
contest. “That was a pretty massive one for her,” said Bella’s father, Jason. “She was skating really good, and the platform the girls have to perform on is unreal. It’s making a difference for these up-andcoming girls.” With the skate competition done and dusted on Saturday, Bella on Sunday went to work at the NSSA Church Open. Held in high-quality, 3- to 4-foot surf, she didn’t skip a beat when it was time to hit the water. Earning first-place finishes in the girls and super girls divisions, Bella clearly has no problem jumping between wheels and water. SC Page 26
Water Temperature: 62-65 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 5-8’ Fair Thursday: Small combo of south-southwest swell and westnorthwest swell. Surf is running waist high (3’) at most spots while top breaks produce occasional chest high+ (4’) sets. Winds and conditions not looking ideal for Thursday with south veering west to west-northwest winds along with possible rain showers (onshore flow strongest in the afternoon). Outlook: Modest south-southwest swell and west-northwest swell mix continues through the upcoming weekend. Fun size surf possible to close out November with more combo swell likely. Winds are lightest in the mornings with mainly favorable conditions, before light to locally moderate onshore winds kick in each afternoon. Early December looks promising for swell as well, so be sure to check Surfline.com for all the details and that longer range outlook.
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