March 3, 2022 by San Clemente Times

MARCH 3-9, 2022 | VOLUME 17, ISSUE 9

L O C A L

N E W S

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INSIDE: Special Section

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2022 Spring Sports Preview High School Teams Return with Championship Aspirations S P O R T S / PAG E 21

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The San Clemente boys volleyball team enters 2022 with its first new coach in 22 seasons, but the Tritons’ expectations remain high. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Chamber Honors Local Citizens, Organizations

State to Lift Mask Mandate for Students

62nd Annual Swallows Day Parade & Mercado Guide

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What’s Up With... TOP NEWS SAN CLEMENTE SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

State Officials Set Date for Lifting of Student Mask Mandate BY COLLIN BREAUX

The day many Capistrano Unified School District parents and students have been waiting for is finally coming. Nearly two years after COVID-19 was officially declared a pandemic, California officials announced that indoor mask requirements for students on campus would be lifted on March 12. “After March 11, in schools and child care facilities, masks will not be required but will be strongly recommended,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a press release that his office issued on Monday, Feb. 28, announcing the impending change. The announcement mentioned California leaders adjust policies “based on the latest data and science.” COVID-19 case rates have recently trended downward, and life has roughly returned to what it was pre-pandemic. Student mask requirements have ignited significant backlash in CUSD, where parents and students have shown up to denounce the mandate during Board of Trustees meetings and staged walk-outs from school campuses in opposition. Some students also recently attempted to enter classrooms without masks as a demonstration against the requirement,

including at Dana Hills High School. CUSD officials have repeatedly said the district must follow state guidelines, and have urged California officials to reverse mask requirements for students. Masks are not required outdoors on campuses, including when students are at lunch or recess. Dr. Mark Ghaly, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, also addressed the soon-to-be policy change during a livestreamed teleconference shortly after Newsom’s announcement. “Safe in-person instruction is essential. This is particularly for vulnerable populations who depend on schools not just for school instruction but for critical services, critical activities,” Ghaly said. “Some individuals depend on it for meals and basic support.” CUSD campuses reopened in late 2020 after initially closing schools to in-person instruction, and they were one of the first school districts in California to reopen. “We must ensure that there is low risk of catching COVID in schools, for both students and staff,” Ghaly said. “We must remain prepared to adjust as the conditions of the virus adjust.” Two separate resolutions on the agenda for the CUSD Board of Trustees’ March 2 meeting aimed to address student mask regulations. One, introduced by Trustees Judy Bullockus and Gila Jones, directs the CUSD superintendent to exercise local responsibility in enforc-

Nearly two years after COVID-19 was officially declared a pandemic, California officials announced that indoor mask requirements for students on campus would be lifted on March 12. Photo: Collin Breaux

Council Votes Down Pay Raise Proposal for Elected Officials BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

The monthly stipend that San Clemente City Councilmembers have received since 1998 will remain around $400 for the foreseeable future, as determined by a 3-2 vote on a proposal to increase the elected officials’ pay on Tuesday night, March 1. Councilmembers Kathy Ward, Laura Ferguson, and Steve Knoblock opposed the raise that would have more than doubled the stipend to about $880. Mayor Gene James last month proposed the pay raises following an Orange County Register article that showed San Clemente’s councilmembers were among the lowest-paid elected officials in the county. San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

By a vote of 3-2 on Tuesday night, March1, the San Clemente City Council rejected a proposed ordinance that would have increased councilmembers’ monthly stipends to $880. Photo: Courtesy of Pexels

In California, local governments are permitted to increase the base compensation of their elected officials by 5% per calendar year since the stipend was last increased. Ferguson said she believed it was Page 3

ing mask wearing in the classroom. The resolution cites Newsom, who in July 2021 had said enforcement of mask-wearing in schools and school programs has always been a local responsibility. “Because suspending and excluding students from school when they refuse to wear masks in classrooms is in direct conflict with our mission to educate and prepare our students and our commitment to their success, it is proposed that the District exercise our permitted local responsibility, as explained by Governor Newsom, and modify the current policy of enforcement of mask-wearing in Capistrano Unified School District classrooms,” the resolution said. The second resolution, introduced by Trustee Lisa Davis, recommends the district adopt a policy of “non-enforcement” with masks. “As a district, we will continue to post all recommendations from the

CDPH stating their suggestion of wearing of masks to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Davis’ resolution said. “A policy of non-enforcement allows staff, teachers and families a choice in the wearing of masks and allows education to move back to a more normal environment.” Newsom, in his announcement, also said mask requirements would be lifted on March 1 for unvaccinated individuals, “but will strongly be recommended for all individuals in most indoor settings.” Monday’s announcement also permits local jurisdictions to keep mask requirements in place, if they so wish. Masks will still be required on public transportation, emergency shelters, health care settings, prisons and jails, homeless shelters, and long-term care facilities, as those are considered “high transmission” settings. Oregon and Washington are also adopting masking policies similar to those in California.

unethical to reverse multiple decades of previous councils’ decisions not to increase their pay, and that the incoming council following this November’s General Election should be allowed to make its own choice on the matter. “If there’s a council will to increase it to the $500, that’s one thing,” Ferguson said, referring to a smaller increase mentioned by a member of the audience during public comments. “But to go back 24 years, I can’t find that to be a reasonable thing to be doing.” Ward added that regardless of the last time the councilmembers’ stipends had changed, recent councils had chosen not to take up the issue. Doing so now would not “reflect council direction,” she said. Since three of the council seats are up for reelection this cycle, voting for an increase would essentially mean giving the council a raise on their own, according to Ward.

“That is what (previous) councils would never do,” she said. “It always had to be outgoing (councilmembers) that we waited for, that would maybe want to make this motion and vote for it.” Ward finished by saying she might consider a stipend raise if it were only a 5% bump from what they are currently given, but that she had to vote against James’ proposal as it stood. James said his reasoning behind the suggestion to increase their pay was to bring San Clemente on a level near other cities of a similar size in California, adding that he believed a move from $400 to $880 would not put the city at financial risk. “I do resent ethics being brought into this, though,” he said. Ward quickly responded that previous councils always discussed ethics during such matters. sanclementetimes.com

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City Engaging in Collaborative Effort to Address Human Trafficking BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

The City of San Clemente is taking steps to address the source of human trafficking and illicitly operating massage parlors within the community. Councilmembers voted at their Jan. 18 meeting to create a subcommittee, comprising Mayor Gene James and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan, that’s tasked with tackling human trafficking and massage businesses violating policies regulating illicit activity. James said at the meeting that the illicit massages were “tantamount to prostitution,” that it marked a blight on the community, and that the problem has and will remain without action taken to fix it. “From a human perspective, this is organized crime, this is exploitation, this is human trafficking, and there are both young women and young men who are being exploited right here in South Orange County, right here in San Clemente,” James said. In an interview on Feb. 22, Duncan said the city already has a good foundation, based on work done by previous councils, to update codes and ordinances and have enforcement mechanisms in place to protect current victims and prevent future victims from such establishments. San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano both passed ordinances in recent years to strengthen regulations on massage parlors, in September 2020 and July 2021, respectively. Such ordinances mandated, among many other provisions, that parlors keep well-lit entrances and remove all locks from rooms dedicated to massages. After hearing how San Juan might be doing a better job of cracking down on unlawful activity, Duncan and James were motivated to take another look at how the city does the same, which is the only outlined goal of the subcommittee. They are working with the city’s Public Safety Committee and Brenda Wells of the i-5 Freedom Network to drive forward initiatives that would increase enforcement. “(It) may not be that we have this terrible problem, but any problem is worth addressing,” Duncan said. “So, let’s get a thorough review, see if there are some issues out there, and see if there are some practical steps we can take to better address that issue.” Since San Juan Capistrano passed its ordinance, at least two massage parlors have been shut down, while no massage San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

The San Clemente City Council has established a subcommittee comprising Mayor Gene James and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan, who are tasked with addressing human trafficking and identifying actions to bolster enforcement of massage parlors engaging in illicit activity. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

“(The city) might be able to do that,” Berkuta said. “That’s up to the code enforcement director and the City Council to designate that as a priority.” Part of that process would include determining whether Code Compliance has the personnel to handle such a task, which Berkuta said would have to happen while determining San Clemente’s budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. Additionally, he brought up the concern of being a “complaint-oriented city,” in that it is difficult to address complaints about possible trafficking activity when they come from third-party sources and are hard to nail down exactly where such activity may be occurring. Regarding public awareness, Duncan said that the city could initiate outreach to children in grades K-12 and the community at-large that would teach people about the issue, its prevalence, what groups of people may be the most vulnerable, and indicators. Understanding the signs of trafficking is important, because Code Compliance staff cannot be everywhere at once, according to Duncan. “We get a lot of good feedback from our residents on different things that are going on in town,” Duncan said. “Educating them is a key component of this, too, so that they have the tools equipped to report to us things that they see, and then we can respond.” Berkuta added that the city needs the support of the community. Speaking with SC Times last month, Wells said that key points of her presentations to the Public Safety Committee include recognizing indicators and knowing how to engage at a city level, and complying with state laws such as Senate Bill 970, which requires hotels to train their staff on trafficking and provide additional awareness training. She also mentioned the importance of having a strong partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s

business in San Clemente has had its license revoked as a result of the local ordinance. In the lead-up to San Clemente City Council passing its ordinance, San Clemente Times found that only two local massage businesses appeared to be engaging in illicit activity based on a review of Rub Maps—a website on which paid users leave reviews, alerting others to establishments offering erotic massages. Duncan said his priorities regarding tangible action aligned with those of Nick Berkuta, the Public Safety Committee chair, with whom SC Times spoke on Monday, Feb. 28. Both talked about allocating more resources to Code Compliance Services that would allow officials to be trained on the subject of trafficking and handle whatever issues arise, as well as increasing public awareness. “They’re strained doing a lot of things, but our Code Compliance is really going to have to take the lead on monitoring establishments, making sure that they are following all the rules, citing them if they’re in violation of any related codes, and taking a real, proactive step to rein in establishments that have been maybe flying under the radar,” Duncan said. He added that all the partnering entities will work to educate Code Compliance officials to recognize signs of illicit activity and know how to respond. Berkuta spoke of the Public Safety Committee’s last meeting on Feb. 22, when Wells updated committee members on human trafficking in the city and gave recommendations. Given her knowledge on the subject and being tuned into what is happening around San Clemente and the region, Berkuta said Wells “is a great resource to the community.” Wells recommended that the city dedicate a code enforcement official to receive specific training on targeting illicit activity and human trafficking. Page 4

deputies. Duncan affirmed the Public Safety Committee’s role in the process, saying that its members have the experience and time to better digest information coming from the i-5 Freedom Network and other law enforcement partners. As a proponent of accomplishing tasks and making progress, he said that the city would not be doing its job properly if it only had meetings and discussed what to do. “We want to have a proposal that is tangible, that is workable, that we can implement right away, and that’s what we’re hoping the Public Safety Committee will come up with—tangible steps we can take right now to make an immediate difference,” Duncan said. Charles Hightower, the committee’s vice chair, and committee member Rick Loeffler are currently composing a presentation of Wells’ recommendations as part of the committee’s own two-person subgroup assigned to address human trafficking, according to Berkuta, “We’re looking at how we can recommend that to the City Council,” Berkuta said. “In fact … (Hightower and Loeffler) are meeting (Tuesday, March 1) with code enforcement folks to say, ‘Is this doable or not?’ Or, ‘What resources do we need to accomplish this if we recommend this? What’s workable?’” The city is open to communicating with other cities and partners to see if it can use good information, advice, or learn of others’ best practices, but Duncan said it is San Clemente’s responsibility to address human trafficking within city limits and utilize its own ordinances. “Our organization right now, on the subcommittee, is really focused on San Clemente and doing what we can do,” he said. SC EDITOR’S NOTE: An extended version of this story can be found at sanclementetimes.com. sanclementetimes.com

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Chamber of Commerce Honors Local Citizens, Organizations BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon on Friday afternoon, Feb. 25, featured a special recipient of the Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award. Bob Hayden, a 70-year-resident and native Californian, received the honor to a standing ovation at private golf club Bella Collina San Clemente. Hayden was among the handful of this year’s Chamber award recipients, including Eileen Kawas, past president of the nonprofit PierPride Foundation, as Citizen of the Year, and San Clemente Times as Business of the Year. Hayden was a former member of the city’s Planning Commission and Blue Ribbon Committee, and was involved with many other organizations, including PierPride Foundation and the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area. Former Chamber Board of Directors member Chuck Narey, who celebrated his birthday on Friday, presented the trophy to Hayden. “The human brain is a wonderful organ,” Hayden said at the start of his speech. “It starts to work the minute we’re born, works 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and never stops until you receive a microphone.” Hayden, who turned 104 last summer, gave his thanks, talked about his relationship with his wife, and spoke about the role he plays as part of the San Clemente Rotary Club. Near the meeting’s end, he continued to tell jokes to everyone, so people left with smiles on their faces. Hayden told one particular joke about an old man that is losing his memory and tries to remember the name of a restaurant, which brought the house down. “(The old man) said, ‘What’s the name of that beautiful flower with a long stem and thorns on it?’” Hayden said. “And (another) guy said, ‘Rose?’ And (the old man) leans toward the kitchen and he shouted, ‘Rose!’” The Dorothy Visser Senior Center earned the Nonprofit of the Year award, which was accepted by Director Beth Apodaca and Steve Moyer, CEO of Age Well Senior Services. Apodaca showed her gratitude for the senior center staff, volunteers, and community support that were integral in getting seniors through the COVID-19 pandemic. From the beginning, when all the seniors were locked down, including San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

Chamber of Commerce board member Vicky Wilson presents the Citizen of the Year trophy to PierPride Foundation past President Eileen Kawas, who has a laugh with former San Clemente Councilmember Tim Brown during the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon on Friday afternoon, Feb. 25. Photo: C. Jayden Smith

his objective was to serve them. “Our Chamber exists to help you achieve your goals,” Rodriguez said. “As the new chair, I’m committed to fulfilling the mission we set for ourselves: provide an effective voice for the diversity, environment, and economic landscape of San Clemente … (and support) a better quality of life in our community.”

some outside volunteers, the center suffered from a lack of overall help. Moyer said that the center never took a day off while being on the front lines. “It’s just amazing, it’s because of the community, because of the volunteers, because of the City of San Clemente and all the government officials helping us in every way they could, (and) they made it happen, so thank you for that,” Moyer said. Chamber board member Vicky Wilson announced Kawas of PierPride as the Chamber’s Citizen of the Year for 2021. “I cannot tell you how overwhelmed I am by this, and I thank all of you,” Kawas said. “When I moved to San Clemente seven years ago, I knew this was what I wanted to call home. … I knew I wanted to get involved in my community, and I think I made a really good decision.” Before the awards were announced, outgoing Chamber Board Chairperson Jim Wynne spoke about the importance of serving to the best of everyone’s abilities, thanked Chamber staff, and mentioned his excitement regarding the new chairperson. Rodriguez, owner of Rod’s Tree Service, accepted the position with “great respect and a strong sense of responsibility,” thanked Wynne, and informed the audience of Chamber members that

OFFICIAL WINNERS: Business of the Year San Clemente Times Nonprofit of the Year Dorothy Visser Senior Center Citizen of the Year Eileen Kawas Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award Bob Hayden Volunteer of the Year Rick Divel Ambassador of the Year Danielle Smith Sustainable Leadership Award (new award) The Outlets at San Clemente Page 6

COMMUNITY MEETINGS SATURDAY, MARCH 5

Challenging Cancer 10-11:30 a.m. The Challenging Cancer group is conducting weekly meetings through Zoom video conferences. The meetings are open to caregivers, people who have a compromised immune system and people dealing with cancer. To join, email donnavigil2@gmail.com or linda_crdv@yahoo.com. heritagesc.org. TUESDAY, MARCH 8

Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing, will continue conducting its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com. San Clemente Toastmasters 7-8:40 p.m. The San Clemente Toastmasters will continue to meet every Tuesday online through Zoom. Email fardad.fs@gmail.com to receive a link to join. 858.900.6175. sanclementetoastmasters. toastmastersclubs.org. sanclementetimes.com

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New MetroLux Theater Officially Opens BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Leadership from The Outlets at San Clemente and the Metropolitan Theatres Corporation were present to welcome guests into the new MetroLux Theatre for a soft opening on Feb. 24. “It’s a really powerful feeling of fulfillment, because it’s the fruition of an incredible team effort that many, many people took part in to make happen, with a tremendous amount of energy and time,” Dale Davison, Metropolitan Theatres’ senior vice president of operations and development, said of the moment. “It’s a real high.” While the theater did not show its first movie until 3:50 p.m., first-time guests were still able to explore, see the progress made, and buy concessions. Monique Cecil and her son, Drew, were the first official customers of the cinema. Cecil had heard about the development before its opening, and she would repeatedly check to see when opening day would come, as she was excited to have a movie theater back in town.

The MetroLux Theatre opened to the public on Feb. 24. Photo: C. Jayden Smith

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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“I think it’s beautiful,” said Cecil, who bought tickets for an upcoming birthday party. “I think they worked hard on it, and under the circumstances, with COVID stopping the construction—and I’m sure things were difficult to do during that time—they still tried as much as they could to open as soon as possible.” The Outlets’ partnership with Metropolitan was born out of an opportunity that arose once George Krikorian, former movie theater mogul, left the industry. “George basically retired, and that sent us scrambling again because we wanted to find the right operator who could do a great job here,” said Steve Craig, owner of Craig Realty Group and the Outlets. He added that their vision was to have more than a theater, but an evening experience. “We probably spent twice as much time as most people would spend on a normal theater, maybe three times, putting in all the different elements that you see here,” Craig said. Of the multiple options that were available with which to partner, the Outlets found a corporation that had staying power, experience, and knew what Craig wanted. The official grand opening has yet to be announced.

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SOAPBOX

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San Clemente Times, Vol. 17, Issue 9. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. San Clemente Times is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at San Clemente, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: San Clemente Times, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

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San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

GUEST OPINION | City Council Corner by Councilmember Laura Ferguson

Keeping Engaged and Fire Lit Under the Council A

s councilmembers, it is our duty to protect San Clemente neighborhoods and preserve our residents’ quality of life. It is our responsibility to ensure equitable application of this premise in all neighborhoods, so the physical environment offers as much peace and safety without interference to the greatest extent possible. It saddens me to see of late what has happened to cause residents, in various parts of town, a tremendous amount of stress. There was consideration given to a potential sale or lease of city-owned land for a gas station/mini-mart/24-hour car wash at Vista Hermosa and La Pata, which was contemplated for years when not a single resident expressed support to council either in writing or orally at council meetings. In 2019, a prior city manager stated at a council meeting that a resident survey showed strong support for a gas station, but it turned out that a survey was never done. I am glad the desires of the people prevailed, as council, on a 3-2 vote, decided to not pursue this use for the land. There was a non-disclosure agreement that we, the people, did not know about, but staff knew of months before it became public that Amazon was considering a project here. Residents expressed to the City Council their fears of pollution, noise, traffic and decreased property values, and more than 5,000 signed an online petition in opposition. The project never made it to the City Council, as the application was withdrawn. There is now concern among Shorecliffs homeowners residing near San Gorgonio Park who have endured unbearable noise from pickleball play from sunup to sundown seven days a week. When council voted to relocate pickleball courts from the south end of town at San Luis Rey Park to the north end at San Gorgonio Park, staff informed council that notices were sent to residents adjacent to the park, and staff said they did not hear from anyone. Recently, residents informed council that the minimum 300-foot distance for public notices was used, and some of those residing closest to the park did not receive notification. Unfortunately, the noise was shifted Page 9

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from one neighborhood to another. When it comes down to it, pickleball simply should be played away from residential living and placed at Steed Park, like the skateboarding park, which is another fun, yet loud sport. Though council agreed Steed Park CITY COUNCIL is the most suitable CORNER location and will BY LAURA FERGUSON expedite this, it will take more than a year. It was my hope, and I made a motion to immediately end pickleball play at San Gorgonio Park and build courts at Steed Park. City Council has the authority to allocate funds to address immediate quality of life, emergency and safety issues; however, my motion failed. I also made a motion to include the construction of a sidewalk alongside San Gorgonio Park, where none exists, but council did not provide support. The estimated cost is $500,000, and I believe this is a small price to pay to increase the peace and safety in the neighborhood and the park, which in addition to pickleball, also serves baseball, soccer, basketball, picnicking and playground play.

As councilmembers, we can disagree about policies or projects, but we must never disagree on how we treat residents and their neighborhoods. I appreciate the people of all neighborhoods in San Clemente who have brought their concerns to council’s attention. I say, keep engaged and keep the fire lit. Your neighborhoods are worth fighting for. Thank you for letting me be your advocate. I am proud to work for you. Laura Ferguson was elected to the San Clemente City Council in 2018. 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.

Join SC Times for Beachside Chat on Friday, March 4, at 8 a.m. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues hosted by PFM Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo every Friday. The chat will be held at Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria. All are welcome.

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GETTING OUT

WEDNESDAY | 09

Editor’s Pick

SAN ONOFRE PARKS FOUNDATION POP-UP SHOP 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Historic Cottage and Visitor Center showcases local history, flora and fauna at this original 1934 ranger’s cottage. A rotating exhibit features the history of San Onofre. Stop in to the San Onofre Parks Foundation’s Pop-Up Shop to say hello, do a little shopping and learn more about the history of the local state parks at San Clemente and San Onofre State Beaches. Historic Cottage and Visitor Center is located within the San Clemente State Beach Campground at 225 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente. 949.366.8599. admin@sanoparks.org. sanoparks.org.

The List What’s going on in and around town this week SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Get a curated list of the weekend’s best events sent straight to your inbox every Friday! Sign up for The Weekender at sanclementetimes.com/weekender

FRIDAY | 04 ‘ON GOLDEN POND’ 7:30 p.m. Through March 27, Cabrillo Playhouse presents On Golden Pond, written by Ernest Thompson. When their daughter Chelsea visits Golden Pond for Norman’s 80th birthday, bringing her boyfriend Bill and Bill’s teenage son, Billy Jr., the whole family must come to grips with Norman and Chelsea’s mutual bitterness, while Norman blossoms with his chance to mentor young Billy. The generation gap between young and old, and the difficulties of a couple in the twilight years of a long marriage, all combine in a play that effortlessly illustrates the hilarious, heartbreaking, human moments of which life is made. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente. 949.492.0465. cabrilloplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY | 05 SOUTH OC CARS AND COFFEE 9-11 a.m. South OC Cars and Coffee, dubbed the world’s biggest weekly car meet, attracts a mix of 500-1,000 hypercars, supercars, exotics, vintage, classic, muscle and sports cars, hot rods, rat rods, pickups, 4x4s and motorcycles. Those attending are encouraged to practice responsible social distancing. Face masks are not mandatory but are recommended. No cars in before 8:30 a.m. Cars should enter and leave slowly and quietly—no revving, speeding or burnouts. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com. San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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SATURDAY | 05 DANA POINT FESTIVAL OF WHALES 10 a.m. Check out the 51st annual Dana Point Festival of Whales in the Dolphin & Whale Watching Capital of the World this weekend. The 2022 Festival, which is dedicated in memory of the late Don Hansen, who founded the event, will be a two-day celebration that will include several traditional in-person activities, as well as virtual attractions. The “Magical Migration” parade will kick off the festivities at 10 a.m., with a route starting at the Richard Henry Dana Statue on the Island Way Bridge. Throughout the weekend, there will also be whale watching opportunities on a special Festival schedule, with COVID-19 protocols in place to provide viewing in a safe and socially distanced manner. There will also be a Welcoming of Whales Ceremony open to the public at dusk on Friday, March 4, on the beach behind the Ocean Institute. The welcoming event will include speakers, food trucks and refreshments, and hands-on educational activities. danapointharbor.com. 949.388.3663. A schedule and map of activities and other information can be found in the Festival of Whales Guide insert in last week’s issue, as well as on the Festival of Whales website at festivalofwhales.com.

SUNDAY | 06

can enjoy arts and crafts with their toddlers and explore the Casa Romantica grounds. Admission is free for Casa members and $50 for non-members. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers at the Community Center/San Clemente Public Library parking lot. 100 North Calle Seville. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org. WHO’S ZEPPELIN AT THE DANA POINT HARBOR 3 p.m. As a part of the Festival of Whales celebration, The Who and Led Zeppelin tribute band Who’s Zeppelin will perform in the Dana Point Harbor. The concert is free to the public. Dana Point Harbor, 334571 Golden Lantern Drive, Dana Point. 949.252.1400. thewhoexperience.com

TUESDAY | 08 PAINT AND PLAY 10:15-11 a.m. Every Tuesday through March 22, families of children aged 2-5

GUEST SPEAKER: MIKE CHAMBERLAIN 6 p.m. The San Clemente Historical Society will hold a free public event at the Community Center, where local resident Mike Chamberlain will be the guest speaker. He will talk about the surf music band he and legendary local journalist Fred Swegles formed in the 1960s. Examples of their music will be played. Chamberlain will also talk about his broadcasting career, which included a stint at San Clemente’s former radio station, as well as his years as a sports broadcaster at ESPN. He will also perform a song from each of several decades as a history of pop music. San Clemente Community Center, 100 Avenida Seville. 949.492.9684. sanclementehistoricalsociety.org.

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BINGO AT THE SENIOR CENTER 1:30 p.m. Every Wednesday, the Dorothy Visser Senior Center will host Bingo. The center will begin selling cards at 1 p.m., with the game starting promptly at 1:30. The buy-in is $12 for 10 games with four cards and a special pick-your-number game. For more information, contact the center at 949.498.3322. Dorothy Visser Senior Center, 117 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente. BIKING CLUB FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLERS AND HIGH SCHOOLERS 5-6:30 p.m. Anyone have middle schoolto high school-aged kids who love to bike? Community Outreach Alliance’s biking club meets every Wednesday afternoon at different trails, with professional biker and mentor Mike Russell from Freakshow Aloha. San Clemente High’s COA club, which hosts this free activity thanks to the Hardman Classic, has bikes and helmets for participants to borrow. To participate, fill out a registration form online at form.myjotform. com/91392099886576. For questions, call or text 949.795.4721. communityoutreachalliance.com/ bike-club/. TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BREWHOUSE 6:30-8:30 p.m. The BrewHouse hosts a trivia night every Wednesday. Test your knowledge with friends, or show up solo and join a team. The BrewHouse, 31896 Plaza Drive, Suite D3, San Juan Capistrano. 949.481.6181. brewhousesjc.com. BACKYARD OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 8-10 p.m. Knuckleheads’ backyard is open for food, drinks and live music. Performers of all skill levels are welcome. If you are a musician, do stand-up comedy or the spoken word, this is the place to be on Wednesday nights. So, come down, grab a drink and go for it. Knuckleheads Sports Bar, 1717 North El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com. sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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4022 Calle Lisa, San Clemente A mid-century modern architectural art piece and one of the more iconic properties in San Clemente, never before on the market. Designed by renowned architect, Bud Evenson, and one of the first homes built (1963) in the coveted Cyprus Shore community. Oriented to have over 180 degree panoramic ocean views and white water views of local surf breaks on an elevated corner lot. Tongue and groove cedar wrap the exterior, interior wood soffits and skylights accent hallways, sliding doors open to the upper and lower level decks that line the entire ocean facing perimeter of the home, while the open living area with fabulous natural light features indoor/ outdoor fireplaces. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom with vanity rooms, approximately 2,059 SF home (lives and feels larger), with a separate beach shower room and individual laundry room in the 2 car garage, all on a 6,599 SF corner lot, allowing plenty of room to add on and/or create various outdoor living spaces. Offered at $4,195,000. Scott Kidd BHHS California Properties 949.498.0487 skidd@bhhscal.com scottkidd.net DRE# 01011063

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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CLASSIFIEDS SUBMIT YOUR CLASSIFIED AD AT SANCLEMENTETIMES.COM

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com. Deadline 12pm Monday. MOVING/GARAGE SALE MARCH 5 & MARCH 6 Moving/garage sale. Saturday and Sunday. 3/5-3/6. 8:30 am. 602 Calle Ganadero, San Clemente, CA 92673 FORSTER RANCH COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE - SATURDAY, MARCH 19 Saturday, March 19, 2022. X st’s Camino Vera Cruz and Camino De Los Mares.

HELP WANTED

Optician/ Eyewear Specialist The position is an Optician/Eyewear Specialist The practice is Griffin Optometric Group in San Clemente To Learn more, visit us at YourTotalVision.com/Careers or call us 949-210-9936

SERVICES SENIOR GENT FOR SENIORS Personal Valet at your service. Errands, assist with daily tasks, chores, local appointments, shopping, cooking, laundry, light gardening, pet attending and more. By Appointment: Michael 949.506.6248

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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Do you want to reach 42,000+ people in the San Clemente area? Then you need to be in the SC Times. Call us today! 949.388.7700, ext. 102

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SC LIVING

New Type of Wellness The Hydration Room Opens 17th Location in San Clemente BY ANDREA CLEMETT, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

s the pandemic encouraged many to get well and stay healthy, some sought remedies meant to boost their immune system, turning to such centers that offer vitamin IV therapies and individually tailored injections—without long waits or outstanding medical bills. Looking to offer San Clemente residents with this new method of wellness and preventive care, Dr. Brett Florie recently opened a new location for his center, The Hydration Room, in the heart of the Spanish Village by the Sea. “I combine Eastern and Western medicine at The Hydration Room,” explains Florie, Hydration Room founder and a board-certified anesthesiologist whose expertise stems from his allopathic and osteopathic medical degrees. “Vitamins are very powerful and have properties that Western meds have, so depending on the patient’s symptoms and goals, I integrate both in their therapy and plan,” he says. Florie’s journey began when he

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK

Ziggy

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

Registered nurse Tesa Gonzalez explains the process of the skin health treatment she is giving to client Jessica Lobo on Feb. 8. Photo: Andrea Clemett

researched remedies for his wife’s migraines and a friend’s autoimmune disease. He saw how their quality of life changed through IV-infused vitamin therapy. After several years of perfecting his formulas, Florie realized the potential to help others who had illnesses or sought an immunity boost. It also served fatigued travelers and athletes when he opened his first location in south Laguna Beach in 2014. “We have a pretty large cancer population,” Florie says. “Patients with cancer are severely dehydrated, fatigued, (tired), immunosuppressed and immunocompromised. We can help patients who are going through chemo and radiation therapy with these side-effect profiles that you see with cancer.” With more than seven categories of IV or injection therapy, it’s no surprise that they draw in a diverse clientele. It

is common to see athletes incorporate treatments into their training regimen to assist in their muscle recovery, rehydration and electrolyte balance. “We take care of a lot of athletes, pretty much professional athletes in every sport who live here or visit in the offseason or train here,” Florie says. “With exercise, they have a lot of metabolic buildups, so we use little powerful antioxidants to remove those from their body.” For clients who want to reap the benefits of skin vitality, they can opt for IV vitamin C treatments, as vitamin C is a key component in the structural elasticity of the skin. As many high-end spas will house various vitamin-C serums, the absorption differs from when it is given in the bloodstream. When this remedy is combined with other vitamins and minerals, Florie says it promotes radiant skin health.

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Sudoku

This happy boy is Ziggy, a 1-year-old Whippet mix with energy to spare. Ziggy is a lively guy who loves to run and play in the yard. Though he can be a bit shy in meeting new people, he gets along with other dogs and would be a great canine companion. If you’re searching for a fun adventure buddy, Ziggy might just be your perfect match! If you are interested in adopting Ziggy, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to animalservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment.

Clients will work closely with the nurse in choosing a program that suits their needs. The staff is in direct contact with Florie in discussing the patient’s chart to formulate a plan of action in all 17 of his locations. Under the guidance of Florie, each registered nurse will undergo a rigorous training program. In this program, they learn about the ideas behind his proprietary formulas of the IVs and treat more than 300 people before they begin seeing patients, explains Shaun Hayward, director of business development and a San Clemente native. “The experience for The Hydration Room is completely different than any other clinic because you’re coming in and you are getting a full rundown, no different than you would go to a doctor’s office about your medical history,” Hayward says. “San Clemente has a close, tight-knit community, and I know that people would benefit from this type of health concept.” The San Clemente office bridges the gap for North San Diego residents who have also been commuting to get therapy in a spa environment setting. The new San Clemente office also joins other South Orange County locations, including one in Dana Point off Pacific Coast Highway. Clients can relax in an open lounge on six airy recliners and converse with their friends or neighbors during their halfhour treatments. If they seek a private treatment, the practice offers a private room available at no extra charge with three chairs with an ocean view. SC THE HYDRATION ROOM info@hydrationroom.com, hydrationroom.com San Clemente 949.503.1399 106 S. Ola Vista, San Clemente Dana Point 949.218.4079 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Dana Point

BY MYLES MELLOR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Page 19

See the solution in next week’s issue.

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PUBLIC NOTICES TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226627099 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: HYPNOTHERAPY DAYS 703 ERSKINE DR UNIT B SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): KATHLEEN NTSI IAB VANG 703 ERSKINE DR SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A KATHLEEN VANG/S/KATHLEEN NTSI IAB VANG/KATHLEEN NTSI IAB VANG This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/08/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times March 3, 10, 17, 24, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226627489 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: PINEAPPLE POOL SERVICE 321 AVENIDA MONTEREY APT B SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): TYLER DAVID MANSUR 321 AVENIDA MONTEREY SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A TYLER MANSUR/S/TYLER MANSUR This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/15/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times March 3, 10, 17, 24, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226626720 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: T-STREET SOLUTIONS GROUP 26492 CAMINO DE VISTA #A SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92675 Full Name of Registrant(s): MICHELLE VUKELICH SLOAN 26492 CAMINO DE VISTA #A SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA 92672 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A MICHELLE VUKELICH SLOAN/S/MICHELLE VUKELICH SLOAN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/03/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times March 3, 10, 17, 24, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226626931 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MARBLEHEAD DESIGN 114 VIA MURCIA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s):

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

JILL TERRYGULDNER 114 VIA MURCIA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A JILL TERRYGULDNER/S/JILL TERRY-GULDNER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/07/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2022

SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A JOHN SKIDMORE/S/JOHN SKIDMORE This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/09/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 24, March 3, 10, 17 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226627809 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MARBLEHEAD PAINTING INC. 114 VIA MURCIA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): MARBLEHEAD PAINTING INC. 114 VIA MURCIA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by a CA Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A MARBELHEAD PAINTING INC./S/FRANZ GULDNER/FRANZ GULDNER PRESIDENT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/16/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 24, March 3, 10, 17 2022

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA, RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: Zoning Amendment for Temporary Outdoor Dining and Parklets A public hearing is scheduled before the City Council of the City of San Clemente on March 15, 2022 at 6:00 p.m., regarding the adoption of a Zoning Amendment to prescribe regulations and design guidelines for a temporary “Parklet Program” for 2022-2023. The proposed Amendment would establish permitting and licensing guidelines for temporary outdoor dining facilities pursuant to state legislative acts pertaining to business pandemic relief (Assembly Bill No. 61 and Senate Bill No. 314). Staff recommends that the Zoning Amendment be found Categorically Exempt from CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15321 (Class 21: Enforcement Actions by Regulatory Agencies). If you challenge this project in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearing. To allow staff adequate time to confirm software compatibility, individuals wishing to utilize electronic visual aids to supplement their oral presentations at the meeting, must submit the electronic files to the City Clerk by no later than 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Only compatible electronic formats will be permitted to be used on City audio/visual computer equipment. Staff makes no guarantee that such material will be compatible, but will use its best efforts to accommodate the request. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that said public hearing will be held at the meeting of the City Council on March 15, 2022 at 6:00 pm in the Community Center Auditorium, 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearing or by written communication to the City Council to express their opinion for or against the request.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226626446 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: PACIFIC COAST LEATHER 328 CAMINO SAN CLEMENTE SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): MICHAEL DAVID WINTZ 328 CAMINO SAN CLEMENTE SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A MICHAEL WINTZ/S/MICHAEL D. WINTZ/ MICHAEL WINTZ This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 2/01/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 17, 24, March 3, 10, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226625894 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: COVE PRINTS 20272 SPRUCE AVE NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660 Full Name of Registrant(s): TROY GROVER PHOTOGRAPHERS, INC. 20272 SPRUCE AVE NEWPORT BEACH, CA 92660 This business is conducted by a CA Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A TROY GROVER PHOTOGRAPHERS, INC./S/ TROY GROVER/TROY GROVER CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 1/26/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2022 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226625837 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: TARGET GLUCOSE 28 SAINT CROIX LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA 92677 Full Name of Registrant(s): CAROL UHRICH 28 SAINT CROIX LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA 92677 This business is conducted by An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A CAROL UHRICH/S/CAROL UHRICH This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 1/25/2022. Published in: San Clemente Times February 10, 17, 24, March 3, 2022

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the San Clemente Times. EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

Laura Campagnolo Legislative Administrator PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226627246 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: JOHN’S OC HOME SERVICES 231 WEST MARIPOSA STREET APT 2 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): JOHN SKIDMORE 231 WEST MARIPOSA STREET APT 2

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sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

2022 San Clemente Sports Preview BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

he spring sports season is by far the busiest season of the CIF-Southern Section sports calendar, and it’s even busier in San Clemente. There are 12 sports widely contested in the spring season, and at San Clemente High School, the Tritons have joined the latest CIF-sponsored sport: girls beach volleyball. So, with so much to look forward to in this spring 2022 campaign, let’s look at some of the top Triton teams competing over the next three months:

Boys Volleyball After 22 seasons, there is a new man at the helm of the San Clemente boys volleyball program. Legendary coach Ken Goldstone stepped down before the school year and left behind a legacy of 13 South Coast League championships and a 514149 overall record. Goldstone’s Tritons never finished lower than second place in league in his tenure. Stepping into Goldstone’s shoes is J Bisch, who had been a member of the San Clemente coaching staff for the previous eight seasons. Bisch is a familiar face for the Triton players, which should keep a talented San Clemente group on course for a high level of competition. “I coached a lot of these guys, a lot of them as sophomores during the COVID year,” Bisch said. “To get back with them has been awesome in general. I’ve already got a rapport with a lot of them. It’s been smooth.” Bisch has purposely put together a tough schedule to prepare the Tritons for the always tight South Coast League and push toward the difficult run of CIF-SS Division 1. San Clemente may still be figuring a few things out with a 1-1 record, but the path is there. “We’re on our way,” Bisch said. “We’re looking to put together that complete set still. Sometimes, when you see the way we’re winning like this (against Edison on Thursday, Feb. 24), as long as we’re passing and blocking, we’ve got one of the best setters in the county. We’re in a good spot.” Leading the Tritons is senior setter Landon Seymour, who is signed to Concordia. Other major contributors will be senior outside hitter Luke Shanafelt, junior middle Luke Ingersoll, junior opposite Brad Munson and sophomore libero Kai Schmitt. San Clemente begins league play at home against Aliso Niguel on March 15. San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

San Clemente boys volleyball has a new head coach, but the legacy of highly competitive teams remains for the talented Tritons. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Girls Beach Volleyball Joining the roster of CIF-approved sports this spring is girls beach volleyball. Indoor volleyball is contested with full teams of six players on each side. Beach volleyball is contested similarly to a tennis match, with pairs of players from each team rotating through to play the other team’s pairs. Also, of course, beach volleyball is contested on sand courts. There will not be any CIF-SS championships for beach volleyball this season, as there must first be a minimum of 20% of the section’s member schools with a team to have a CIF-SS playoff. However, some teams will still be able to compete for league championships, while others will play a freelance schedule until more teams are added. Many of the members of San Clemente’s indoor girls volleyball team already played beach volleyball competitively, with plenty more obviously playing recreationally in the beach town, and so, many of those players make up the inaugural Tritons girls beach volleyball team. San Clemente won the first-ever South Coast League beach volleyball match,

4-1, over Tesoro on Tuesday, March 1. The pairs of Haley Brown/Riley Brown, Abigail Brown/Sofia Williams, Gisele Galbasini/Quinn Loper and Sarah Ahmadi/ Pyper Nelson won their sets.

Baseball It’s been a rough few seasons for the San Clemente baseball team, but there’s hope that a younger group of Tritons can push the program forward. “Rough” isn’t to say the Tritons haven’t had some talent, but San Clemente’s misfortune only comes in as a member of what may be the toughest public high school baseball leagues in Southern California, with the South Coast and Sea View Leagues. San Clemente hasn’t had a winning league record in the Sea View or South Coast Leagues since 2015, when the Tritons won the Sea View League at 10-2 with several future MLB draft picks, including Kolby Allard, Lucas Herbert, Andre Pallante, Will Tribucher and Tanner Brubaker. Despite that, the Tritons have typically put up winning records in nonleague play, but last season was a down year overall for San Clemente with an 11-18 overall record and 4-8 record in the Sea

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View League. This season, San Clemente has been led by a balance of younger and older players. Offensively, the Tritons’ top three run-scorers are all sophomores: Pearce Brown, Jake Wood and Brock DellaVedova. San Clemente’s RBI leaders are a pair of juniors and a senior with Nolan Reid (4), Vinnie Kane (3) and Ryan Dunbar (3). San Clemente’s pitching staff also has experience, with senior Aiden Sautner, junior Hayden Dill and senior Ryan O’Connor leading the Tritons in innings pitched. San Clemente is 2-4 in the early season, but their first true test is on the horizon. The Tritons open Sea View League play at home on March 14 against Aliso Niguel and play at Aliso Niguel on March 16.

Softball The San Clemente softball team was another Triton team that said goodbye to a longtime coach, as Bill Malcolm stepped down from the position after eight seasons. Malcolm’s team won four league championships and made the CIF-SS playoffs each year. (Cont. on page 24) sanclementetimes.com

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT/ REMODELING

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

ATTORNEY

Want to be featured as our business spotlight?

Aaron Lloyd Bankruptcy Attorney 2377 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.544.9355, lloydlegal.com

BODY MIND SPIRIT ARE YOU HAPPY? Let us assist you in creating a life plan for the life & relationships you want & deserve. Body Mind Spirit, 949.248.7377, bodymindspirit.com

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, San Clemente, 949.493.9311, drericjohnson.com

DENTISTS

ELECTRICAL

Benjamin Stevens, D.D.S. 3553 Camino Mira Costa, Suite B, San Clemente, 949.493.2391, benstevensdds.com

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, arcadiaelectric.com

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY Call Lauralyn Loynes for pricing at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTIONS 3West Environmental, Inc. www.3westenviro.com Residential & commercial inspections for mold, asbestos and lead paint. 949.482.1357

Hoover Construction License B-774675 949.292.6778

MUSIC LESSONS

Rock Club Music School 73 Via Pico Plaza, San Clemente, 949.463.1968, beachcitiesrockclub.com

FIREWOOD FOR SALE

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Jack McKay, Owner 949.449.0445 mckayja29@gmail.com Call for prices. Earning money to purchase my first car. Perfect for campfires, beach fires, home fires.

Dr. Raymond L. Wright Jr., DDS 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, San Clemente, (949)361-GUMS (4867), sanclementeperiodontics.com

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

REALTORS

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

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

BUSINESS DIRECTORY PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

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BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call Lauralyn Loynes at 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Five Tritons Wrestle at State Championships BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

he San Clemente wrestling program was represented by two boys and three girls at the CIF State Championships in Bakersfield on Thursday-Saturday, Feb. 24-26. However, none of the Tritons could navigate their way through the stellar field to the podium. Of the five San Clemente wrestlers who took to the mats at Mechanics Bank Arena, sophomore Eden Hernandez came closest to reaching the state podium in the girls 116-pound bracket. Hernandez was also the only Triton to finish with a winning record at the state meet. Hernandez had to fight her way through the consolation bracket after losing her opening match by decision, 7-5, to the division’s No. 6 seed. Hernandez won her first consolation match by forfeit and earned decision wins in her next two matches, 9-2 and 9-5. In the second round of the consolation quarterfinals, Hernandez hit the end of her road with a loss by fall in 2:26. Hernandez finished one match away from a guaranteed podium spot, as the

The San Clemente wrestling program had three girls (Eden Hernandez, Berlyn Davis, Lily Mercado) and two boys (Garrett Boyd, Vance Frabasilio) compete at the CIF State Championships in Bakersfield last week. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente Athletics

next consolation round solidifies at least an eighth-place finish. Hernandez was ultimately San Clemente’s most successful wrestler in the individual postseason, with a CIF-SS Eastern Division individual championship and a fourth-place finish at CIF-SS Masters. Senior Lily Mercado was the only San

Clemente wrestler to win a first-round match at the state meet, with a win by fall in 2:21 at 235 pounds. However, in the second round, Mercado was beaten in a long match against the No. 6 seed by fall in 3:47. Mercado lost her first consolation match by fall in 1:36. Mercado finished third in the CIF-SS Eastern Division and sixth at CIF-SS

(Cont. from page 21) Jasmine Watson takes over the position for San Clemente with some NCAA Division 1 experience in her pocket. Watson played at Syracuse University, where she broke the school’s all-time home run record in 2014, and was Division 2 assistant coach at Ferris State. Watson also coaches travel ball. San Clemente is 2-3 so far this season, with wins over South Coast League local rival Dana Hills (7-6 on a walk-off) and Sea View League foe Capistrano Valley (7-2 in tournament play on Tuesday, March 1). The Tritons have been led by Sacred Heart-bound senior Samantha Kowalski, who hit a home run and the walk-off single against Dana Hills. San Clemente opens Sea View League play at home against Capistrano Valley on March 17.

Boys Lacrosse San Clemente boys lacrosse is coming off a season in which the Tritons were on the edge of a season of big competition. San Clemente finished second in the South Coast League with its only two losses coming to league champion Tesoro. The Tritons also qualified for the first-ever CIF-SS lacrosse playoffs, but San Clemente fell in the first round of Division 1 at Santa Margarita, 12-7. San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

San Clemente softball is another Triton team with a new head coach, but the Tritons have shown promise with two wins over local foes. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

San Clemente features a younger group this season, but the Tritons will be just as competitive as ever. The Tritons are led by a pair of returning first-team, all-league seniors at attack in Luke Lemus and Dante Decollibus. In San Clemente’s home opener against Beckman on Feb. 26, Decollibus led the Tritons with five goals and Lemus scored four. The Tritons won that home opener, 13-9, with two goals each from Aidan Kaffl and Nick Favero and stellar work in net by goalie Andrew Beaulieu. San Clemente is 1-1 on the season

with a loss in its opener to perennial power Foothill. The Tritons hosted San Juan Hills on Wednesday, March 2, but results were not available at press time. San Clemente opens the South Coast League at home against reigning champion Tesoro on March 24.

Girls Lacrosse The San Clemente girls lacrosse team made its own history last season. The Tritons went unbeaten in league play, and in the first-ever CIF-SS lacrosse

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Masters. Triton sophomore Berlyn Davis lost both of her matches at 126 pounds to the bracket’s No. 1 seed, by fall in 36 seconds, and by fall in 1:48 in the consolation round. Davis finished seventh in the CIF-SS Eastern Division and at CIF-SS Masters. In the boys bracket, senior Vance Frabasilio was the only Triton to win a match. Frabasilio lost his opener at 160 pounds by fall in 2:48 to the No. 5 seed, but in the consolation round, he won by fall in 3:26. However, Fabrasilio had to forfeit his next consolation match. Frabasilio finished fourth in the CIF-SS Eastern Division and seventh at CIF-SS Masters. San Clemente senior Garrett Boyd lost both of his matches at 145 pounds. Boyd lost the first round to the No. 7 seed by decision, 5-2, and the consolation round by decision, 9-0. Boyd finished third in the CIF-SS Eastern Division and seventh at CIF-SS Masters. The Triton boys entered the individual postseason coming off the program’s third consecutive CIF-SS dual meet championship. SC

playoffs, San Clemente won its opener in a thriller over Edison, 8-7. San Clemente lost its next game in overtime, 8-7 against Newbury Park, but history was made nonetheless for the continually rising Triton girls. San Clemente will need to create new scorers this season, as three of the four leading goal-scorers from last season graduated, but junior Emma Massamiri returns after scoring 41 goals in her sophomore campaign. The Tritons also return their goalie in senior Brooklyn Hodgin, who allowed an average of only 5.6 goals per game last season. San Clemente has started the 2022 season on fire with a 3-0 record and has seemed to find its goal-scorers with three blowout victories. San Clemente beat Mission Viejo, 20-5, and Beckman, 18-8, on the road before winning its first home game over Murrieta Mesa, 13-4, on Tuesday, March 1. Tests will be coming for San Clemente, as the Tritons play at Corona del Mar on March 8 and at Foothill on March 24. San Clemente opens league play at San Juan Hills on March 22 and hosts Aliso Niguel in league on March 29. SC For in-game updates, news and more for all the San Clemente High School spring sports programs, including track and field, boys tennis, swimming, boys golf and STUNT cheer, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCSports sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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SC SURF

Aloha to 2 Local Surfboard Legends The San Clemente and Dana Point surf communities say goodbye to Brad Basham and Jim Gilloon BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Longtime surfboard builder Brad Basham died on Sunday, Feb. 20, following an accident at his San Clemente surf shop the previous day. He was 68. Photo: Courtesy of Brad Basham’s Facebook page

he local community of surfboard artisans and craftspeople is mourning the loss of two of its most revered members, as Brad Basham and Jim Gilloon have unfortunately departed this mortal coil. By the time of his death, Basham had built an institution in San Clemente’s bustling Los Molinos “Surf Ghetto.” The owner and proprietor of Basham’s Factory and Surf Shop, Basham’s business was the hub of the board-building scene. Selling everything from surfboard blanks to sandpaper to fin plugs for anyone who wanted to make a surfboard, Basham’s was the place to go for supplies. He rented out shaping bays where anyone could come in and whittle away. A quiet, humble figurehead of the San Clemente scene since the early 1970s, he shied away from the spotlight, content to focus his energies on his business and making those around him better. He’s remembered for his kindness and generous heart. Giving so many local shapers a place to launch their careers, it was because of Basham’s support and guidance that big-time shapers today such as Timmy Patterson, Matt Biolos and Tyler Warren were able to get their start. “Every board builder to pass through San Clemente in the last 50 years, at least, had dealings with Brad. Most/all of us had either worked for, bought and/or borrowed/benefited from, or were just plain propped up and supported by Brad through the decades,” wrote Biolos on his Instagram remembrance. “Brad was a bank,” Biolos continued. “He’d supply us with blanks for nothing more than a signature and a promise to pay. When Clark Foam closed down, I don’t think we ever got the old blank bill completely paid off. We’d ask for the invoice, and he’d cock his head and say, ‘Hmmmm, we will figure it out, some day.’ Later, we ran

Legendary surfboard salesman Jim Gilloon died late last month, the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center announced in a Feb. 24 Facebook post. Photo: Courtesy of the SHACC

up a massive glassing bill, which he changed to a loan we paid back (with interest) over a decade. He really helped us.” “I’ll never forget picking up the first board I shaped from Basham’s at 14 after they glassed it. Thanks for always having the time of day for me,” Warren remembered.

Basham died following an accident at his shop on Sunday, Feb. 20. He was 68. A makeshift memorial of flowers, candles and other mementos has been in the works at the Basham Factory. Meanwhile, after a life very well lived, Dana Point icon Gilloon has gracefully kicked out. A friendly, popular character, Gilloon was a fixture in Dana Point’s lineups in the golden era before the harbor was built. For a lot of area surfers, he sold them their first surfboards at Hobie Surf Shop. A longtime manager of the Hobie shop, he is revered as the “greatest surfboard salesman of all time.” It’s been suggested that Gilloon sold more surfboards in his career than any other person. “My first job working in the (Hobie) shop was mostly filling up jars of resin and colored pigment and stocking T-shirts to be sold there,” remembered surf legend Corky Carroll in a 2018 piece for the Orange County Register. “The shop manager was a very cool dude named Jim Gilloon. Jim was a local surfer and longtime part of the Hobie crew,” Carroll continued. “During busy times or when I was done filling and stocking, he would let me work on the floor doing sales.” The stoke and kindness of both Basham and Gilloon will be very much missed. Respectively, they played critical roles in building and supporting the local surf communities that we know and enjoy today. They both changed people’s lives for the better by helping them chase the sun and pursue their own vision of the surfing dream. Ride easy, guys; the next set waves are all yours. Jake Howard is local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente. A former editor at Surfer Magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for a number of publications, including Picket Fence Media, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation. SC

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY CAPISTRANO VALLEY TOYOTA

GROM OF THE WEEK

HAYDEN RODGERS BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

I Hayden Rodgers. Photo: Courtesy of @valentin_feltrin

San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

n December of 2019, with the awards ceremony for the Pipe Masters taking place on the beach, 14-year-old San Clemente grom Hayden Rodgers suffered a wipeout that nearly took his life. Three years later, Rodgers is ripping and charging harder than ever. With the late-season swell pumping along Oahu’s legendary North Shore, Rodgers most recently has been packing bombs at Pipe. Rodgers, who’s unafraid to go big, deserves huge props for the Second Reef roll-in that ultimately closed out on the inside and hammered him. Check out

SURF FORECAST the wipeout on his Instagram feed. Rodgers is a full-on barrel hunter. Over the past year or so, he’s logged water time on Bali and through the Indonesian archipelago. Making a trip to the magical G-Land way down deep in Java, he’s definitely not afraid to go over a shallow, unforgiving reef. He also put some time in down south in Central America. And while El Salvador is known mostly for its right-hand point surf, the goofy-footer got down to business in the warm, equatorial waters. Of course, most of the time, you’ll find Rodgers tearing the bag out of the Lowers Left. It may not be the best tube in town, but it does have a heck of an air section, and Rodgers is no slouch above the lip, either. SC Page 26

Water Temperature: 57-59 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 8-10 Thursday: West-northwest swell rolling in with thigh to stomach high waves, (23’+). Light SE winds early morning, rise to moderate+ levels for the afternoon. Outlook: Fresh Northwest swell fills in Friday, setting up waist to chest high surf, (3-4’), by the afternoon. Those heights holds on Saturday, then waves drop to knee-thigh-waist high, (1-2-3’) for Sunday. Moderate to breezy westerly winds due Friday and Saturday. That onshore flow is expected to be light+ to moderate on Sunday.

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San Clemente Times March 3-9, 2022

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