September 24, 2020

LO C A L

September 24-30, 2020

N EWS

YO U

C A N

INSIDE: 2020 Fall ‘Aging Well’ for the Young at Heart

U S E

SPECIAL SECTION VOLUME 15, ISSUE 39

Cinema Under the Stars Outlets Hosts Drive-In Movie Nights G E T T I N G O U T/ PAG E 1 0

sanclementetimes.com

Families gather at the Outlets at San Clemente on Monday evening, Sept. 21, for a screening of Sonic the Hedgehog. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Council Candidates Discuss Priorities on Dais EYE ON SC/PAGE 6

James Files Anti-SLAPP Motion in Defamation Suit EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

In-N-Out Project Plans Approved EYE ON SC/PAGE 4

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

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SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With...

Council Approves Plan for Local Gyms, Churches to Operate in City Parks

Five things San Clemente should know this week Councilmember James Responds to Defamation Suit, Files Anti-SLAPP Motion THE LATEST: Councilmember Gene James is looking to the courts to strike down a defamation suit he’s currently facing from a former political associate, Jim Bieber, by claiming his alleged speech and actions raised in the complaint are protected and a matter of public interest.

Attorneys representing James filed an anti-SLAPP (strategic lawsuits against public participation) motion with the Orange County Superior Court this month, arguing that the timing of the defamation suit this past May appears to be politically motivated.

“The timing of this lawsuit—which has already been publicly reported in the local newspaper—is no accident,” the motion stated, referring to the San Clemente Times’ reporting on the matter.

Bieber, the motion continued, “filed this lawsuit to highlight the allegations against me and to undermine my campaign for reelection.” James also claimed that Bieber has contacted some organizations with which James previously was affiliated “to personally attack me.”

James is currently one of 10 candidates vying for the two four-year seats on the San Clemente City Council. He won last year’s Special Election held to fill the spot vacated by the late Mayor Steve Swartz, who died in May 2019.

Bieber, who previously worked for James during the 2019 campaign, alleges that James has told others in San Clemente that Bieber made death threats toward the public official.

James has denied such an allegation and has stated, in a separate Aug. 19 filing responding to the lawsuit, that the alleged speech and actions, “even if made,” were “protected,” “not unlawful,” “justified and/ or privileged,” “a statement of opinion,” and “related to a public issue or an issue of public interest.”

The filing further asserted that the alleged actions “did not cause economic harm” to Bieber or his business, and that James “did not act with malice, reckless indifference, or fraud toward” Bieber.

As of press time, Bieber’s attorney had not responded to SC Times’ request for comment.

In Bieber’s lawsuit, he references a text San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

The city council recently approved a program to make it easier for San Clemente’s fitness centers and churches to operate outdoors in public parks and on beaches during the pandemic. Photo: Eric Heinz/File

message exchange in which James tells a couple of San Clemente residents “Bieber threatened to kill me,” after being told he was seen meeting with fellow Councilmember Chris Hamm outside James’ home.

“Defendant James demanded to know how they knew Councilman Hamm was at his home, and angrily stated there was a risk to his home,” the suit stated, adding that no one would reveal how they knew of Hamm’s visit to James’ home.

“Defendant James replied in a text: ‘So you refused to tell me… Bieber threatened to kill me, and my wife shouldn’t be freaked out,’ ” according to the lawsuit, which said James allegedly continued to write in the chat that there were witnesses who had heard Bieber’s alleged threat.

“There are witnesses to Bieber… besides it’s not me … my wife is completely freaked out since your post,” James wrote to the group, the lawsuit stated.

James, in his motion, acknowledged the message in which he raised the claim of Bieber threatening “to kill me,” explaining that it was sent over Facebook Messenger on May 2, and that “given my status as an elected official and my experience in law

enforcement and security, I was concerned for my family.”

According to James’ motion, the incident in question occurred while at a bar this past February, when Bieber allegedly walked up to James, using profanity to disparage the councilmember, and stated, “We’re going to kill you.”

“I did not want to further engage with Mr. Bieber, so I left the bar,” James stated in his filing. “I wasn’t sure whether Mr. Bieber meant it as a political takedown comment or a personal one, but I attributed the hostility to a political adversary.”

When asked for additional details related to the alleged incident, Kevin Brown, James’ attorney, said he didn’t know in what bar the confrontation had occurred, and declined to answer whether there were any witnesses, given the stage of the litigation.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the Superior Court, a SLAPP motion hearing has been scheduled for Nov. 30.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An extended version of this story can be found at sanclementetimes.com.

—Shawn Raymundo

San Clemente COVID-19 TRACKER

Confirmed cases Deaths

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Est. City Population: 64,000 • Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for daily local & county statistics. *Information as of 9/22/20. Source: Orange County Health Care Agency

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THE LATEST: The city council approved a program last week to make it easier for San Clemente’s fitness centers and religious institutions to operate outdoors in public parks and on beaches during the pandemic.

Councilors on Sept. 15, voted 3-1 in favor of the initiative meant to accommodate and provide relief for those additional economic sectors by implementing a streamlined permitting process for outdoor operations for which businesses and places of worship can apply.

Acting Mayor Laura Ferguson was the only no vote.

The program came a week after Orange County had transitioned to the red tier (or substantial risk tier) in the state’s fourtiered, color-coded coronavirus tracking system. Under the red tier, places of worship can operate indoors but with a maximum capacity of 25% or 100 people— whichever is fewer—while gyms and fitness centers are limited to 10% capacity.

According to the city, there has been increased interest from local fitness studios and churches looking to hold services outdoors in public parks, as they’d been previously barred from operating indoors.

“Park Rangers and Recreation staff have seen a significant increase in commercial workout-type activities occurring across City parks and beaches,” the city noted in a staff report.

Samantha Wylie, the city’s recreation manager, further explained to councilors on Sept. 15 that there are some local churches interested in conducting services at city parks.

Addressing questions from the council, Wylie also noted that the program will benefit only those businesses and places of worship located in San Clemente, as there will be a requirement to have a current city commercial license and address.

Additionally, the program also takes into account an anticipated expansion of youth sports leagues with fall and winter on the horizon. The staff report noted that three groups have regularly rented the athletic fields since reopening in early August.

“Upon the start of fall and winter sports seasons, staff expects to serve between six and 10 youth sport organizations on ballfields throughout the city,” the report stated.

Such organizations are required to submit to the city a “Return-to-Play” document and a Coach’s Acknowledgement, detailing their procedures to maintain safe play, in accordance with the California Department of Public Health’s guidelines.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to the city, the (Cont. on page 4) sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC (Cont. from page 3) increased activities at the parks and fields are anticipated to give the city an additional $2,646 in monthly field-rental revenue.

EDITOR’S NOTE: An extended version of this story can be found at sanclementetimes.com.

—SR

In-N-Out Project Plans Approved THE LATEST: In-N-Out Burger took one step closer to moving into San Clemente with a new location, as the planning commission last week approved the popular fast-food chain’s project plans with additional conditions.

Commissioners unanimously voted in favor of approving the restaurant’s permit applications, which propose to demolish the former California Bank & Trust building located at Pico Plaza—on Avenida Pico, just off Interstate 5.

The site of the two-story office building will be rebuilt into a one-story, drive-thru In-N-Out location on 3,882 square feet of space. The restaurant’s drive-thru lane, according to the city, will be able to accommodate 30 vehicles, while the parking lot will comprise 51 spaces.

Jim Lockington, manager of new store development for In-N-Out, had told the commission on Sept. 16 that the West Coast chain believes “this will be one of the most attractive, if not the most attractive, In-N-Out restaurant ever built.”

To address concerns with potential traffic issues, as In-N-Out is known to produce a long line of vehicles, a condition of approval mandates that should vehicle stacking “cause circulation and/ or crowding onto the public streets,” the business owner will have to work with city staff to implement solutions to mitigate the problem.

Such mitigation measures could mean increasing the number of In-N-Out staff working outside to organize drive-thru stacking or even double-stacking vehicles on site, according to the city’s report.

Before commissioners approved the plans, concerns were raised over In-N-Out’s proposed 7-foot-tall monument sign. As part of the approval, the commission added another condition requiring In-N-Out to remove the sign from its plans, as well as the red LED cove lighting on the building.

According to Katie Crockett, the city’s associate planner, part of the commission’s concern with the monument sign was it would contribute to sign pollution, as the Pico Plaza pile-on sign is already stationed nearby.

WHAT’S NEXT: Crockett said In-N-Out has until Monday, Sept. 28, to appeal the additional conditions, putting the final decision on approval on the shoulders of the city council. She added that the restaurant is likely to appeal the addition of the condition.

Regardless of whether In-N-Out appeals San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

The planning commission last week unanimously approved In-N-Out Burger’s site plans for its proposed location in San Clemente. Rendering: Courtesy of the city of San Clemente

the additional condition, Crockett said in an email, “The applicant still needs to submit construction documents for building plan check, the process for which can take several months. Once they receive building permits, they can move forward with construction.”—SR

Engineering Contract Awarded for Mariposa Bridge Replacement Project THE LATEST: Plans to replace the Mariposa Beach Trail Bridge are likely to move forward soon, as the engineering firm KPFF has been awarded the city’s $327,000 contract to lead the construction project.

The city allocated a total of $3 million toward the project to replace the steel bridge with one made of fiberglass—material, according to the city, that requires less maintenance when it comes to protecting against weathering and corrosion.

“It became evident that frequent repainting of the existing steel bridge was not a long-term, cost-effective approach, and that replacing the steel bridge spans with an alternative material would be less costly in the long term,” the city stated in a staff report to the city council.

According to the city, a fiberglass bridge is expected to have a “useful life of 30-40 years” compared to the level of upkeep on the existing steel bridge, which requires recoating every 10-15 years, as well as “frequent spot patching and painting.”

The contract award comes roughly three months since the Mariposa portion of the Beach Trail reopened to the public. The bridge had been closed several months because of structural damage it sustained during a landslide last November.

After evaluating the damaged portions of the bridge, the city has stated, it cleared landslide material and made temporary repairs, allowing the section of the trail to reopen.

KPFF, the city said, worked closely with city staff to “determine the extent of the damage to the bridge and its support columns at the landslide area.” The city noted that some KPFF employees worked on the bridge’s original design and construction in 2005 and 2006.

“Therefore, KPFF has unique familiarity with the Mariposa Beach Trail Bridge,” the city said in its report. “KPFF determined that the foundation of the bridge was sound and only minor repairs would be needed when replacing the bridge.”

The engineering firm will be tasked with developing construction drawings and technical specifications, procuring package and bid support, providing engineering construction support and managing the construction, according to the city.

The contract award covers KPFF’s $296,450 cost proposal, plus a 10% contingency added to the cost because of the project’s “complexity and potential unknowns.”

WHAT’S NEXT: The city also noted that the coastal development permit (CDP) for the bridge could require an amendment before construction begins, which will include replacement of the bridge and minor incidental bluff clearing.

If the project isn’t exempt and an amendment needs to be made to the CDP, the council will have to approve additional funds to cover the amendment task.—SR

Mental Health Professionals Discuss Anxiety, Loneliness During Pandemic THE LATEST: Stress, anger and other mental health concerns are being felt by plenty of people during the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health professionals in South Orange County recently confirmed.

Robyn Igelman, a psychologist in San

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Clemente, said people tend to feel worried, anxious or fearful about the ongoing health and economic crisis. Those feelings can also revolve around when the pandemic will end and when things will get back to normal.

“They also feel disconnected, lonely,” Igelman said. “They miss the things they used to be able to do.”

Local mental health experts also noted the lack of physical contact brought about by increased time spent indoors away from people is also affecting mental health. In addition, people may worry about elderly parents or other relatives.

“I will say I receive a lot of calls every day,” Igelman said. “I probably have seen about a 20% increase in the number of individuals reaching out to me for support.

Whether that’s directly related to the pandemic or not, it’s hard to say.”

Some people feel that anxiety or depression they had experienced previously has been exacerbated, Igelman said. Though Igelman currently sees a majority of clients in her office, she also sees some online if they prefer. Igelman transitioned to entirely telehealth services at the onset of the pandemic Adriane Nada, a marriage and family therapist in Dana Point, said she has seen an increase in mental health issues. The first few weeks of the pandemic were marked by a sense of quiet as people processed the changes to daily routines, but after that, she received more emails and calls from clients needing help.

Mental health concerns revolve around careers, balancing child care with other responsibilities and financial concerns, Nada said. More indirectly, previous traumas may be retriggered.

There are differences but also commonalities in how people are processing the pandemic, Nada said.

“Some of the themes . . . there is a sense of fear directed at different things,” Nada said. “Some people can feel trapped.

There’s some grieving going on. There’s depression, with people not being able to do some things they used to, like hug.”

Tips for people to manage their mental health include getting outside, exercising, eating healthy, staying in the moment and grounded, as well as practicing deep breathing or meditation. Other advice is to create a schedule, connect to friends and loved ones either physically or in other ways, getting adequate sleep through a bedtime routine, and finding ways to connect to a bigger picture.

“Limit social media. Limit news media,” Igelman said. “I tell my clients, ‘Why bother? Don’t even look at it anymore. It’s just stressing you out. Don’t do it.’ They absolutely say it helps.”—Collin Breaux EDITOR’S NOTE: The candidates for the two San Clemente City Council races participated in a Q&A hosted by the San Clemente Historical Society on Sunday, Sept. 20, over Zoom. Head to sanclementetimes.com to check out our in-depth coverage of the forum. sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

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EYE ON SC

Hear from the Candidates Leading up to the San Clemente City Council General Election on Nov. 3, the San Clemente Times is publishing three questions, one every two weeks, that we’ve asked each candidate who is running for the two four-year seats. In next week’s edition, we’ll publish responses from the Special Election candidates. The list of candidates is published according to the random alphabet the California Secretary of State recently drew. SC *Incumbent WEEK 3 / QUESTION 2

As a member of the San Clemente City Council, what will be your top priority on the dais? What initiative or policy do you hope to achieve as an elected official, and what will be your first step in working toward that goal?

BILL HART

JEFF PROVANCE JR.

CHARLIE SMITH

PATRICK MINNEHAN

CHRIS DUNCAN

Treat the heart attack first, then cure the patient. We have three urgent priorities. The first is to help our local businesses survive the COVID-19 crisis. The city must “just say yes” when business owners tell us what they need. Second, watch our budget.

Keep spending in check and closely watch property tax, sales tax and transient occupancy tax revenues. Third, council must replace rancor and disagreement with civility and cooperation so we can recruit a top-quality city manager. Having chaired hundreds of city meetings, I can proudly point to my track record of teamwork, respect and fairminded leadership.

My top priority, if elected, will be to bring leadership and accountability to our currently fractured council. Finding a city manager who will complement our city with experience and passion will be priority. We need to be whole before we can move forward. I will listen to the people and fight for the best interest of our city—not what is best for individuals on the council. Our current council has forgotten that we are elected for and by the citizens of this great city. My door is always open, and I will be there for the people of SC.

My main objective is improved management of the city’s financial standing/business environment.

1. Hire a city manager focused on revenue enhancement (without raising taxes) and expense discipline (excluding public safety budget).

2. Meaningfully increase business patronage and corresponding sales. Ideas: beautifying our retail/restaurant areas to create experiences for customers, establishing more special events, attracting strong businesses, and creating aspirational branding for the city.

3. Address pension liabilities.

4. Enhance collaboration with city’s financial services and treasurer, especially with fund’s asset management services.

5. Maintain AAA credit rating.

6. Minimize consulting and legal fees.

• Develop proactive and positive working relationship with all city councilmembers and city leadership.

• Deeper dive into the budget with city leadership. Understand current liabilities, how the liabilities developed, understand opportunities to improve budget gaps, review/ improve accountability and the respective action plans.

• Review of current projects in progress, staff recommendations and status. Develop an understanding of how current policies along with the General Plan are assisting or hindering progress and opportunities to take action to improve those policies.

• Communicate and celebrate successes with our community.

Our top priority has to be bringing our community together so we emerge from this pandemic stronger and more unified than before.

To this end, I will launch a Gateway Beautification Initiative to: 1. Clean up our beaches and parks; 2. Widen and repair roads and sidewalks, re-landscape medians and open spaces, and develop empty lots; and 3. Improve signage at freeway exits and other entry points.

These infrastructure improvements will reinforce pride in our Spanish Village by the Sea, raise our property values, and attract increased economic activity for our local businesses, which will more than offset costs.

JOSEPH KENNEY

AARON WASHINGTON

JEFF WELLMAN

GENE JAMES*

THOR JOHNSON

My top priority is to bring transparency and integrity to the city council. As a lifelong San Clemente resident, my No. 1 goal is to keep San Clemente from losing its identity. Progress is inevitable, but it needs to be done keeping local businesses front and center. What we don’t need is another professional bureaucrat sent here to mole their way into city council to sell us out to the highest bidder, trying to turn San Clemente into Los Angeles.

I will make common sense decisions that serve the real people of San Clemente, because I am one of you.

I seek to make San Clemente the safest and greatest city in Orange County. We need to reclaim our public facilities, parks and water features for our children. I will work with the city manager on the city’s budget that will help us obtain this objective. I will streamline and reduce costs for homeowners and small businesses. To make this city great, I will be available to the public for meetings, phone calls, and will offer regular office hours. I will always make myself available.

My top priority is to ensure San Clemente remains a safe and familyfriendly Spanish Village by the Sea. I will achieve this priority, in part, by making sure we stop the toll road from entering our town. This also includes making the legal language clear in order to preclude the other various pathways still being explored by the TCA. In line with my top priority of maintaining a familyfriendly community, we need to create more indoor/outdoor places for San Clemente families to gather and socialize. I envision a recreation area mixed with local restaurants and local shops.

A safer, stronger San Clemente.

Those were my marching orders by those who elected me to city council. I’m working hard to keep that promise. My first task, keeping San Clemente safe and secure so we live in peace. Next, having the backs of our deputies, providing the resources they need. A state-ofthe-art police station and a push for more deputies. Keeping criminals out and crime down. Keeping business alive, streamline permits, attract new enterprise and continue outside dining. Finally, stop the Toll Road, address the homeless crisis regionally and work together for fiscally responsible solutions.

My top priority is protecting the natural rights and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens and businesses of San Clemente. My initial focus will be on keeping our beaches, trails, parks and businesses safely open. I will introduce legislation to become city ordinance guaranteeing these rights.

I will seek to hire a skilled and responsive city manager who will help us successfully coordinate our reopening efforts, improve our economic outlook, and give the level of service our community deserves. I will work with our residents to keep San Clemente as the vibrant, thriving community we all enjoy.

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

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San Clemente Times September 17-23, 2020

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EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

DP Introduces Massage Business Ordinance After multiple Orange County cities have reported the proliferation of illicit massage establishments—for sex work and human trafficking—Dana Point agencies are working toward creating an improved city ordinance that could aid in preventing such activity.

On Sept. 15, the Dana Point City Council held a first reading of a proposed ordinance regulating local massage businesses. According to a staff report, the enactment of Senate Bill 731 in 2008 unintentionally resulted in an increase in massage parlors.

“As amended in 2011 by Assembly Bill (AB) 619, SB 731 limited the ability of local governments to regulate massage establishments,” a staff report states. “Specifically, it prohibited the City from regulating massage businesses that provide massage services through employees or independent contractors certified by the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC).”

In response, the Legislature revised the law through the adoption of AB 1147, the Massage Therapy Act (MTA), which restored local land use authority over massage establishments.

Under the new law, responsibility for

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

massage regulations is divided among CAMTC, cities and counties.

On Jan. 20 this year, investigators from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s VICE team called a meeting with city staff. “(Law enforcement) suggested that the current practice of allowing the State to inspect and enforce regulations on these businesses was not effective,” the staff report states.

OCSD recommended that the city of Dana Point update local ordinances, using models from other Orange County cities, to gain local control while still complying with state regulations. The city identified 22 businesses offering massage, with some being identified as potential “problem businesses.”

Some of the significant changes to regulations include that all practitioners must be CAMTC-certified and must obtain a massage establishment permit from the city. Owners or operators must provide the city with a complete roster of employees and proof of certification—with updates to the city should there be changes in staffing. City officials may make reasonable inspections of massage establishments.

In August, San Clemente unanimously passed its own ordinance regulating message establishments. The ordinance includes a bevy of amendments to the city’s laws on massage businesses meant to aid in law enforcement’s efforts to end the network and organizations of human traffickers who force women into sex work at

Community Meetings THURSDAY, SEPT. 24

Peyton Wood, 4, stands by an outdoor activity area at Community Seedlings Preschool, located along Camino De Estrella, on Friday, Sept. 18.

Photo: Collin Breaux

JOINT HOMELESS SUBCOMMITTEE 3-5 p.m. The city’s Joint Homeless Subcommittee will conduct a special meeting via teleconference and can be streamed through the city’s YouTube channel. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

illicit massage parlors.—Lillian Boyd

South OC Preschool Opens Kids are learning about caterpillars, staying active and enjoying the outdoors at Community Seedlings Preschool in the Capistrano Beach/San Clemente area.

The private preschool holds classes at Palisades United Methodist Church during the week, though it is not affiliated with the church. Community Seedlings Preschool opened in mid-July for its summer program and started a fall program on Sept. 1.

“We keep all the children in small groups,” said Carrie Fetter, co-founder and director.

“The kids are having a great time. The most important part is, because of how beautiful it is here, we spend 98% of the day outside.”

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Teachers and staff wear face masks and have their temperature taken before they enter the campus. Kids rotate to different spots and activities as part of the curriculum. The school generally has about 30 to 35 children a day.

The preschool also has a STEM room for kids to study science, technology, engineering and math. The curriculum additionally emphasizes literacy and other skills. —Collin Breaux

Have something interesting to submit to our News Bites section?

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

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EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo

Art Director Jasmine Smith

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex

City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux

General Manager Alyssa Garrett

O P E R AT I O N S

Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh

Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares

Columnist Fred Swegles

FINANCE

Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes

Finance Director Mike Reed Accounting & Finance Manager Tricia Zines CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco Jake Howard Tim Trent

San Clemente Times, Vol. 15, Issue 39. 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 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

GUEST OPINION: The Downtown Buzz by Chris Aitken

Advancing Concepts to Enhance Downtown Experience

T

he San Clemente Downtown Business Association (SCDBA) is focused like never before on finding creative ways to assist our local businesses as the effects of the pandemic continue to cause a difficult business environment.

We are happy to report that, in partnership with the city of San Clemente and the Chamber of Commerce, the SCBDA has taken leadership in various measures in the past 60 days, including the extension of the open-air dining concept throughout the city to the end of June 2021—thanks to a recent city council vote.

The widely popular open-air dining program has enabled local restaurants to keep their doors open through this very challenging time.

We are encouraged that retail and service businesses have expressed a benefit from foot traffic, as the popular open-air dining THE DOWNexperience has drawn TOWN BUZZ so many residents and

By Chris Aitken visitors. As such, there is interest in expanding open-air dining concepts to a more permanent basis for the benefit of all business sectors.

“Support local” will be more important than ever for the city of San Clemente and its businesses as we enter the fall and winter seasons—typically the hardest financially for our downtown area.

To bolster business during these slower months, the SCDBA is working with the city to advance ideas meant to enhance the downtown experience.

These include: • The “Promenade on Del Mar” will be a Sunday street closure on Avenida Del Mar—an idea that was in its final

development stages prior to the recent pullback. The Promenade on Del Mar could be implemented in late October, assuming it is safe to do so and is consistent with California’s COVID-19 guidelines.

• Improving the ambience of our downtown area by working with the city to light the popular white tree lights along Avenida Del Mar (typically experienced from Thanksgiving to early January) as early as October. The SCDBA continues to collaborate with the city on other concepts designed to improve the downtown experience for our residents and visitors.

The SCDBA is focused on developing creative ideas that enhance the downtown experience and address the economic challenges our businesses face, and we do want to hear from you.

Your input helps us prioritize what actions to pursue with the city. In that effort, we will be sending a survey to our local businesses to get feedback on what they believe is needed as we approach the colder months.

For the most recent updates on Open San Clemente (open-air dining) and The Promenade on Del Mar, please visit our dedicated pages at scdba.org. If you would like to express your opinion or provide feedback, we welcome you to email us at info@scdba.org.

Thank you for keeping our downtown vibrant by shopping locally and get ready for Shop Small Saturday happening Nov. 28. Stay up to date—and be part of the action—by becoming an SCDBA member or subscribing to our weekly electronic newsletter at scdba.org.

Donations are also greatly appreciated.

This year has been a challenge for us all, but the road ahead is bright, and with your continued support, we can ensure that our “Spanish Village by the Sea” shines brightly for years to come.

The SCDBA is a nonprofit committed to the beautification of your downtown and the support of the San Clemente business community. Thank you again for your support.

Chris Aitken is the Chairman of the Board of the San Clemente Downtown Business Association. Chris is also involved with two businesses in the downtown area, including being the co-owner of H.H. Cotton’s restaurant and a partner of the personal injury law firm Aitken Aitken Cohn. 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. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

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Letter to The Editor EL PATIO CLOSED STEVE PEZMAN, San Clemente

El Patio: Lucy’s Mexican Food was one of the iconic businesses of the Capo Beach area since the 1950s. No one even considered that the pandemic might take El Patio out.

When it closed, everyone thought, “OK, when the coronavirus finally runs its course, Lucy’s will return.” But it wouldn’t. It was gone, a shock to its regulars, accumulated over 70 years of business.

Alas, a new for-sale sign says it all.

It wasn’t the food, which was good enough, but the steady neighborhood/ family vibe, waitresses bringing what they knew you wanted before you ordered, the mix of regulars, many who had obviously been inhabiting the bar with nowhere else to be.

Its sudden absence, like a family member dying, was inevitable, but never before even considered.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to letters@sanclementetimes.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit readersubmitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Limit your letters to 350 or fewer words. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory. In the interest of fairness, SC Times will not publish letters submitted by candidates running for elected offices between the time they file for candidacy and the date of the election.

Virtual Beachside Chat, Friday, September 25, at 8 a.m., via Zoom Join SC Times for a virtual Beachside Chat on Friday, Sept. 25, at 8 a.m.

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

by SC Times Editor Shawn Raymundo every Friday. Email Shawn Raymundo at sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com for a link to the Zoom video meeting. sanclementetimes.com

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

At the Movies: ‘Tenet’ Saves the Day

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 sanclementetimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Thursday | 24 YOGA AT LINDA LANE PARK 9-10 a.m. Join EPIC Yoga for this all-levels, socially distanced yoga at Linda Lane Park.

No experience is necessary. EPIC Yoga is eager to keep its outdoor yoga practice going and continue to deepen participants’ connection with the EPIC community.

Linda Lane Park, 228 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.558.5111. epicyogasc.com.

866.446.7803.

Saturday | 26 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

EDITOR’S PICK The city of San Clemente will screen The Greatest Showman during a drive-in movie night at Vista Hermosa Sports Park on Friday, Sept. 25. Photo: Courtesy of city of San Clemente

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25: DRIVE-IN MOVIE ON THE MEADOWS 7:10-9 p.m. Get in your cars, grab your snacks and something cozy to keep you warm.

The city is bringing The Greatest Showman to the meadows at Vista Hermosa Sports Park for a drive-in movie night. Admission is $6 per vehicle. Each parking spot will be marked in advance and have 6 feet of distance on both sides. Listen through the radio with an FM transmitter. Make sure to come hungry, as Tres Compas Mexican Grill will be there and ready for walk-up orders, both savory and sweet to satisfy cravings. Restrooms will be provided with continuous cleaning and monitoring. Pre-registration for vehicles is required through the city’s website. Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

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.

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.

Outlets Hosts Drive-In Movie Nights

BY HALEY CHI-SING, FOR THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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he Outlets at San Clemente is hosting weekly drive-in movie nights for families in and around the San Clemente area. After opening on Sunday, Sept.

13, screening Princess Bride, the drive-in theater has continued to feature films of all genres, ranging from adventure to comedy to beloved classics.

“With everything going on in the world, we wanted to find a way to bring some entertainment to the community, to families, local businesses, where they could get out and do something that was entertaining but still within the guidelines of keeping San Clemente Times September24-30, 2020

Families gather at the Outlets at San Clemente on Monday evening, Sept. 21, for a screening of Sonic the Hedgehog. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

people safe,” said Kimberley Daskas, marketing director for the Outlets.

Initially inspired by other nearby shopping centers, the Outlets partnered with Starlite Movies and MetroLux Theaters to bring safety-regulated entertainment back to the community. The Drive-In Theater also serves as a means of bringing traffic back to the shops, which have been slowly reopening since the initial lockdown in March.

Most stores are now open following guide-

Wednesday | 30 BACKYARD OPEN MIC NIGHT AT KNUCKLEHEADS 8-10 p.m. Knuckleheads’ backyard has reopened 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.

lines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while most restaurants currently offer outdoor seating for patrons.

The Drive-In Theater will be held every week, running from Wednesday to Sunday, until Nov. 11. The parking area will open at 6 p.m. for those who would like to arrive early, and the movie will promptly start at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets must be purchased in advance via the Outlets website; admission is $35 per car.

The Outlets’ restaurants will also participate by offering guests options for dining before, during, and after the film. There will also be several food trucks and popups sprinkled around the parking area for those who wish to try something new.

Restaurants including Panera Bread, Ruby’s Diner, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and Swirl will feature specials the nights of the Drive-In. “It gives families the opportunity that, once they’ve parked their car, they can eat it in their car while they watch the movie or dine before the movie and get really good specials on food and treats,” said Daskas. SC

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Photo: Courtesy of Melinda Sue Gordon/Warner Bros. Pictures

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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cclaimed English film actor Robert Pattinson has come a long way since his vampire days as the male lead in the Twilight flicks, and his most recent releases are no exception. The first is the highly anticipated sci-fi epic of Christopher Nolan’s Tenet. Let’s see how well it lived up to fans’ expectations.

We follow the story’s protagonist played by John David Washington while he is trained to manipulate time to prevent another world war from breaking out. Pattinson, Aaron Johnson and Clémence Poésy are a few of the big names helping Washington to save the day from a supervillain played by Kenneth Branagh. Elizabeth Debicki becomes dangerously close to the damsel in distress trope as the female lead, but fortunately she is redeemed by the third act.

So after all the hoopla of the blockbuster possibly not getting its necessary theater experience because of COVID-19, film fans were still blessed with Tenet’s release, albeit two months later than scheduled. The feature itself is still essentially what you get from most of Nolan’s movies.

The action sequences, casting, the cinematography, the special effects and—most of all—the music score are top-notch; ultimately, however, they are sandwiched between some stale dialogue and stiff comic relief. Tenet isn’t Memento (2000) or The Prestige (2006), but it doesn’t feel as hokey as The Dark Knight Rises (2012) or Interstellar (2014), either.

While flawed, it’s still a good month for Robert Pattinson fans. His two latest performances, as a suave espionage agent in Tenet and as a sleazy preacher in Antonio Campos’ The Devil All the Time, are a reminder of just how much range and versatility the actor has. SC sanclementetimes.com

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WELCOME

Aging Well As autumn greets us, so comes this year’s second edition of Aging Well. Yet no matter the season, there is no wonder why so many South Orange County residents choose this region to embrace their golden years.

In this edition of our biannual guide for seniors, Aging Well, we’ve curated a collection of stories on what the tri-city area of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano has to offer, as well as important information needed on staying healthy and active throughout the challenges of a pandemic.

In this Fall edition, local columnists offer insight on living healthy lives. Fred Swegles provides guidance on how seniors can implement best practices in avoiding COVID-19, and health expert Gina Cousineau lists seven healthy habits for seniors to stay active. Be sure to read up on how to best navigate virtual doctor visits to take advantage of technology and enjoy the benefits of virtual appointments.

Continue reading for a special profile on Ruth DeNault, a well-known matriarch of DeNault’s ACE Hardware; a closer look at how massage can be crucial for seniors; resources on meals and housing, and so much more.

We hope this edition of Aging Well can help readers learn something new and also help them make the most of living in beautiful, sunny South Orange County.

Help Through a Computer Screen: Virtual Doctor Visits

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By Collin Breaux

eople are understandably wary of face-to-face contact during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they still may need to pay a visit to their doctor for medical issues.

Fortunately, telemedicine—already a budding trend before the ongoing global health crisis—can be there to fill the void. It’s not exactly the same as making an in-person visit at a doctor’s office, but treatment is treatment.

Local health professionals spoke with Picket Fence Media about varying aspects of virtual doctor visits, particularly at a time when people are exploring digital and creative ways to continue with routines.

There has been an uptick Tony Nakhla, a dermatologist and surgeon with OC Skin Institute, said his office has seen San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

an increase in virtual appointments recently.

OC Skin Institute has made it a point to adopt telehealth for senior visits.

OC SkinLab founder and CEO Michelle Hure said their practice has embraced virtual teledermatology visits for most common visits, with the exception of skin checks.

“Our teledermatology integration has been seamless, and we see more virtual than in-person appointments per week,” Hure said. “This has lessened the need to have more people in the office and allowed for better spacing out of our patients who need to be seen in person.”

Most of the in-person visits are by senior patients who need to have skin checks, biopsies, procedures and surgeries, Hure said.

Virtual visits can’t replace all aspects of in-person appointments.

Virtual visits are ineffective for specific concerns that need a physical exam such as listening to lung sounds or examining the skin for atypical moles or skin cancer, according to Hure.

Nakhla said they’re also not effective if someone needs surgery on the spot. Another challenge is technological issues that may arise—patients may spend time getting Page 13

a web camera to work or trying to log in for their appointment.

However, they can be convenient in terms of avoiding traffic or taking a lot of time off work if someone has an issue that can be addressed via telemedicine, Hure noted.

“The visits are convenient and allow you to talk to your doctor in the safety of your home without the need to converse in a mask or risk exposure to coronavirus or the upcoming flu season,” Hure said.

Telemedicine should be relatively accessible to people.

Almost anyone who has coverage through Medicare or a preferred provider organization should be able to register for a telemedicine visit. The COVID-19 pandemic has further facilitated a transition to virtual doctor visits.

“Virtual visits have always been around, but were underutilized due to lack of insurance coverage,” Hure said. “Once the shutdowns occurred due to COVID, insurance companies began allowing these visits to be covered by patient plans.”

Patients definitely need reliable Internet access and a webcam on their computers, or they can use a smartphone, Hure said. sanclementetimes.com

Ruth DeNault

Unwavering Mother, Philanthropist, and Matriarch of DeNault’s Hardware Stores

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By Haley Chi-Sing

eNault’s hardware stores have become a landmark business in the South Orange County area, with five stores (including San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano) and each one encompassing the neighborhood-friendly, round-the-cornerstore essence. Despite their unquestionable success and growth over the years, it is the woman behind the name that is responsible for the expansion of the business. Ruth DeNault, the matriarch of DeNault’s ACE Hardware Stores, has been at the helm of

the business since their opening in 1956 and continues to lead the company these many years later, all while balancing her family life, education, and philanthropic works.

Originally from North Dakota, DeNault moved to Southern California in the early 1950s as a means of joining her husband, Jim DeNault, who had just recently been a soldier in the Korean War. Promptly after her husband’s Army years, the DeNault family settled in San Clemente with plans of growing a family in the seaside town.

“We looked around for a good place to raise our family and decided that San Clemente was the place we would like to be,” said DeNault.

Shortly after moving to San Clemente, DeNault and her husband took it upon themselves to open their own hardware store after they had been in the business two years prior. In 1956, the family-owned business opened its doors for the very first time at the corner of Ola Vista and Del Mar in downtown San Clemente.

“We started out as a diversified general store, because we had sporting goods, tricycles, bikes, dinnerware,” said DeNault.

“Change has been constant.”

DeNault’s own ventures have been accompanied by change, as well. DeNault decided to continue her higher education at Concordia University and earned her BA and MBA, all while managing DeNault’s stores.

Already having had plenty of experience of her own in business administration, DeNault recalls having found her prior experience “extremely helpful,” as she went back to school, along with maintaining her hands-on approach in the family business.

Despite all of the personal changes DeNault took on, one constant that remained

Hearing Better for a Better Quality of Life

By Zach Cavanagh Muffling of speech, difficulty understanding words with background noise, trouble hearing over the phone or following conversations with two or more people talking, the need to have people repeat themselves, turning up the TV volume too loud, being unable to understand women and children when they speak.

These are all symptoms of something that a majority of Americans will eventually suffer from: hearing loss.

One-third of Americans between the ages of 65 and 75 have some hearing loss, according to the Mayo Clinic. That percentage increases to about one-half for those

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

older than 75.

Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the person whose hearing has suffered. Effects range to family, friends, colleagues and others as they navigate the issue and accommodate the person with hearing impairment or loss. But there are ways to make the situation better.

There are two major types of hearing loss, both of which can be remedied to help you and others around you live a happier life.

The first and easiest to deal with is conductive hearing loss, which is when sounds cannot reach the inner ear due to earwax, fluid or a punctured eardrum. This can be treated and managed.

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was DeNault’s Hardware’s friendly, reliable service. Known for their distinct welcoming feel, the hardware stores continued to provide individualized assistance to every and all customers who walked through their doors.

“We keep up with what people are looking for, and we give them good, friendly service and knowledgeable people to help,” DeNault said. “[Customers] enjoy shopping at our stores and talking to people that they know.”

However, one curveball the company’s president never saw coming was the dismantling effect that was the coronavirus pandemic. Considered an essential business starting in March of this year, DeNault’s ACE Hardware stores remained open all through the pandemic, providing supplies and hardware throughout the lockdown.

“It’s been very good. Our stores have been extremely busy because people have time at home now to do projects in their home and in their yard. . . . It’s been a busy time for us,” said DeNault.

To comply with CDC and statewide guidelines, all of DeNault’s stores have installed screens in front of cash registers, required customers and clerks to wear masks upon entering, and have maintained social distancing measures when interacting with individuals. While it has proven somewhat difficult in relation to showing customers certain products and items, DeNault’s stores have maintained their customer-first approach throughout the pandemic.

“We really enjoy knowing our customers . . . it’s really a very friendly place. You come in, and we would have friendly people working for us, and people love to come in and have somebody to chat with about their projects,” said DeNault.

Sixty-four years since they first opened their doors, DeNault’s Hardware has expanded as her four sons—and now, her grandchildren—have joined the business, and so has DeNault’s endless list of familial and community jobs. Along with her position at the family business, DeNault has served on San Clemente PTA boards, her sons’ Cub Scout groups, and as president of the Archeology Institute of America, Orange County branch. She is currently an e-board member of the Archeology Institute of America, President of the Cultural Center at Casa Romantica, member of the Foundation Board of Directors at Concordia University, and a Sunday School teacher.

The second, and the one that will require some hardware, is sensorineural hearing loss, which comes from innerear damage. This is the most common type of permanent hearing loss and where hearing aids come into play.

There are also two main types of hearing aids. The cheaper and smaller hearing aids are simply amplification systems to make sounds louder. The more expensive and larger aids help distinguish sounds and make sounds crisper.

If you are experiencing any symptoms linked to hearing loss, contact your doctor or one of several local hearing services and hearing aid centers.

sanclementetimes.com

Age Is a State of Mind

Baby Boomers Combat Aging with Bodywork

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By Michelle Bryant, Owner, The Massage Associates ccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, preventing disease and injury is critical to reducing the expected growth of health-care costs headed our way, as more than 70 million U.S. baby boomers cross the 60-yearold threshold. Moreover, disease prevention is critical to, well, your health.

Whether you’re a boomer who is running a marathon or running after your grandchildren, you know that growing older doesn’t mean growing old. If you’re wondering how to stave off the effects of aging, the preventative and restorative nature of massage and bodywork might be just what the body ordered.

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Immunity and Stress If you’re already a frequent recipient of massage, you know what the work does to combat daily stress. But did you know how detrimental those stressors can be?

Experts say the majority of disease we encounter today is associated with stress. Not only that, stress is a huge factor in premature aging of the body. Researchers say chronic stress ages the body, weakens immune cell function, and can make cells appear up to 17 years older than they really are. Through its effects, massage deftly attacks stress, while boosting the immune system.

Squashing the Pain Part of the aging process, unfortunately, involves dealing with aches and pains. You might find a day of gardening brings on back pain you never experienced before, or your biking regimen now requires greater recovery time afterward. Even though pain is a constant source of grief for an aging body, massage can make a difference.

In addition to the pains of physical exertion an aging body experiences, the discomfort caused by arthritis can be just as debilitating. Experts predict that one-third of Americans will get arthritis as they age.

Ironically, most arthritis sufferers may not think of massage when they start to explore which therapies might ease their pain. While it is doubtful an arthritic joint can “heal” completely with massage, it can feel better. And for an arthritis sufferer, better is a welcome word, particularly when there are no side effects involved.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, an increasing number of doctors are recommending massage to their arthritis patients to help relieve the pain and stiffness caused by their disease. Massage can increase circulation around painful joints, bringing healing oxygen and nutrients, including amino acids, to rebuild tissue. Many massage therapists report that their arthritic clients find better and longer-lasting relief from massage than from pharmaceuticals.

Whether it’s reducing the symptoms of arthritis, or simply addressing the aches and pains of living an active life, massage can play an important role in aging well.

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BENEFITS for Boomers The benefits from massage and bodywork can help bodies of all ages, especially for baby boomers. Research has shown that massage: • Improves range of motion and decreases low-back pain.

• Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs.

• Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles.

• Reduces swelling and scar tissue.

• Reduces recovery time from injury/ surgery.

• Reduces stress, a major contributor to disease and ill health.

• Releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkiller, thereby reducing the need for medications.

• Stimulates lymph flow and supports the body’s natural process of detoxification.

Michelle Bryant is a Licensed Massage Therapist and the owner of The Massage Associates in San Juan Capistrano.

The Massage Associates has therapists who are specifically trained in helping the older generation be their healthiest selves. In-office or in-home treatments are available. 31952 Camino Capistrano, C-10, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.7924, themassageassociates.com. sanclementetimes.com

How to Not Get

COVID

By Fred Swegles When asked if I had any story ideas for this year’s Aging Well section, my reply was, “That’s easy.

Don’t get coronavirus!”

I’m 72, and now I’m seven months into the pandemic, not sick with COVID. That doesn’t make me an expert. And I could be asymptomatic. But I think the precautions I take have worked pretty well.

I’m not perfect. There’ve been stupid moments. Fortunately, they didn’t come back to haunt me. Well, not yet.

Some may call the precautions I take paranoia. I feel they’re pretty simple.

A friend who drove cross-country on a work-related trip told me that wherever he went, he asked, “Do you know anyone with COVID?’—and nearly everyone said no.

I do know it’s out there. And I can’t take a chance. I happen to be caregiving for my brother, who has health challenges not related to COVID. I wouldn’t want to bring COVID home to him or my other housemates. So I’m home most of the time, taking precautions when out shopping or exercising.

hour, every morning, early, when few other people are out and about, then another 30-45 minutes in late afternoon or evening.

I take routes where it’s fairly easy to steer clear of people. To work my legs, I keep the bike in the hardest gear. I pedal as hard and as much as possible.

Sometimes, after dark, I’ll walk around the block, rarely encountering anyone.

Whether walking or riding, I steer clear of people. I’ll walk across the street to pass someone. Or hang a U and head back. Paranoid? No, just prudent. Who cares which direction I’m going? It’s not about where. It’s exercise.

AVOID CROWDS I figure if you’re a senior like me, a vulnerable group, it’s best to stay home as much as possible without going batty. This is the first summer in my life I’ve spent hardly any time at the beach. And travels are on hold.

It’ll pass.

I read a lot. I get outside regularly for exercise and, as need be, to do newspaper work.

For exercise, I ride my e-bike about an

ABOUT MASKS I wear a mask nearly everywhere I go when I leave the house.

Early on, I sometimes wore a gaiter around my neck instead of a mask during early morning bike rides. I figured I could enjoy fresh morning air, unfettered, on deserted streets and raise the gaiter over nose and mouth as need be.

I have gaiters of varying fabrics, so I chose thicker ones. Then I stopped using them at

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

THE BEACH TRAIL Early on, I gave up regularly riding/walking the beach trail. It was too easy to get trapped in with a grouping of people at choke points.

On rare occasions, I’ve done short bits of the trail, avoiding choke points and prepared to reverse direction if I so choose.

Social distancing is about helping protect other people, not just yourself. The trail is pretty wide, most of the way. But I can do without it, for now.

all, after a pedestrian one morning called out to me from a sidewalk, noticing my gaiter below my mouth. We were probably 25 feet apart, with a parked car between us.

I pedaled by without responding that we were plenty far apart. But then I thought, wearing a mask on all my bike rides is no big deal, just do it. I stopped using the gaiters. I may use them on my face this winter, when it’s cold.

On the other hand, I’ve had people call out to me. ridiculing my mask as overkill, laughing at a bicyclist out on the street using a mask. Indeed, at 10-20 mph, I ride fast enough to generate a breeze, so it’s probably a safe environment.

I figure, just wear the mask, if only for a sudden situation that may arise. And as a continual show of kindness to others.

THE BEACH I have a pretty solid tan, despite avoiding the beach this summer. I buy into the idea that sun exposure is beneficial, giving you healthy Vitamin D and UV, if not in excess.

I’ll sit a brief period daily in my patio.

A few days, I’ve picked an uncrowded stretch of beach to sit, read, hop in the ocean. On those days, I’m getting probably more sun than I should. Hey, until this summer, I did that all the time. Now it’s rare. I’m more conscious of minimizing exposure.

I’ll wear a mask to and from the beach, removing the mask once I’ve found my peaceful patch of sand.

GROCERIES Senior hours at supermarkets are golden.

Shop with no crowd. Except that masked

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store employees are busy stocking shelves at that hour. You have to navigate the aisles.

And what if something I need hasn’t been stocked at that early hour? You can politely ask. They’ll help.

Sometimes, I’ll avoid others by switching directions and walking roundabout to reach my desired shelf. Exercise is good. Paranoia?

Nope. No big deal.

I like finding my shopping cart sanitized at the entrance, with cleaning wipes I can drape over the handle. I carry a mini bottle of hand sanitizer I can use, leaving the store.

Is that paranoia? To me, it’s easy. No hassle.

Same with washing hands.

HEALTHY DIET Evidently, a few readers took exception to an SC Times column I wrote about Thomas Appell’s book, Never Get Another Cold, suggesting healthy diet as a preventative if you’re concerned about COVID. For many Americans, the diet he advocates is too extreme. I took a little ribbing for having written the column. I’m convinced he is onto something, COVID or not. To me, the diet makes sense.

But for me, the diet was asking too much.

I adopted elements of it into my own version of a better diet to help avoid getting sick, pandemic or not.

I’m happy with my compromise.

None of us is an expert. We do our best.

There are no guarantees. Be positive. Be kind. Be happy. Count blessings. With prayers and condolences to families touched

by COVID, I’m increasingly confident we can come out of this fine. sanclementetimes.com

SEVEN

Healthy Aging Habits for Staying Active

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By Gina Cousineau Too often we take “advice” from so-called “experts,” who don’t practice what they preach, nor do they necessarily have the knowledge to do the teaching. In this area, I have experience working with many seniors over the years, and I, too, am a senior, albeit a rookie at 57 years of age. But the combination of my wisdom and education allows me to address this topic, which is very near and dear to my heart. These suggestions are in no particular order, but all are necessary practices to consider:

1/ Joy

Finding aspects of your life that provide pleasure on a daily basis is like drinking from the proverbial fountain of youth. Be it the food we eat or the activities we participate in, our actions can dictate our happiness.

While we understand that life has many obstacles, if we can focus on that we are grateful for, I do believe that this can be a game-changer for living a joyful, active life.

2/ Nutrition

As a culinary nutritionist, it is obvious that I believe that food is of great importance, providing the calories and nutrients necessary for our bodies to function and thrive. As we age, we tend to have lesser appetites, due to a decrease in our taste sensation. To counter this, we need to add more flavor to our food, including herbs and spices, upping the flavor factor. Keep it simple, sticking with whole grains, legumes, fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy, healthy fats (olive oil, avocado, nuts/ seeds) and lean protein options, and this will be your recipe to success.

3/ Movement

The statements “motion is lotion” and “move it or lose it” holds true in my experience. While our fitness level can decline rapidly as we age, simply walking most days will help to boost our fitness and our mood.

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

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4/ Faith

Whether you follow a formal religion or are simply “spiritual,” this practice allows our lives to have meaning and purpose.

5/ Work/Volunteering

Doing for others, be it in a work or volunteer capacity, provides a sense of accomplishment. Never stray from this habit.

6/ Family & Friends

These relationships provide support and comfort throughout life, and according to studies, improve our mental well-being and are protective against mental illness.

7/ Self-Care

Being your own advocate, and having someone to pair with your efforts, is paramount to living a long, healthy, independent life.

Having an internist/primary care physician that helps guide all aspects of your health care is critical. Too often we neglect health screenings that can detect diseases, which can be treated if caught early. And with aging and as our our health histories become more complex, this individual can play “quarterback,” helping manage potential risks/benefits of tests, screening, treatments, medications and more. They remind you not only about your yearly flu shot, but when you need your shingles and pneumonia vaccines, the intervals for your colonoscopies, prostate screening, skin checks, and they will refer you to a specialist as needed. They also monitor your blood pressure and labs, which is no different than when you take your car in to the mechanic for routine maintenance. Don’t wait until the “check engine light” comes on, folks, as unlike a vehicle that can be replaced, your body cannot. Being proactive and focusing on prevention can add years to your life.

Gina Cousineau sees clients virtually and in person out of her San Clemente office. Her extensive education with a BS in dietetics and MS in integrative and functional nutrition, chef training, and 30-plus years as a fitness professional allow her to help clients lose weight and improve their health. You can reach her at mamag@mamagslifestyle.com, 949.842.9975, and on Instagram /Facebook @mamagslifestyle. sanclementetimes.com

OC Office on Aging Provides Many At-Home Senior Services During Pandemic

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By Zach Cavanagh enior services are plentiful throughout Orange County to help its older and aging residents. There are so many that it may be confusing or difficult to find exactly where to go or what will suit a specific need.

That’s where the Orange County Office on Aging comes in. The Office on Aging acts as a facilitator between the county’s many service providers and any member of the aging population who uses those services. The office also administers and funds throughout the county and through service providers.

The Office on Aging can be found online at officeonaging.ocgov.com and can be contacted by email at areaagencyonaging@ occr.ocgov.com or by calling 714.480.6450 or toll-free at 800.510.2020. The Office on Aging can also be engaged on Facebook at @OCOoA and on Twitter and Instagram at @OC_OoA. San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

The Office on Aging’s service provider in South Orange County is Age Well Senior Services, which operates the Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano senior centers and the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente.

In addition to the senior center services, Age Well also offers home-delivered meals, in-home services and non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments for seniors.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, Age Well has also been the Office on Aging’s South Orange County provider for the state’s Great Plates Delivered program, which helps seniors and other adults at risk to COVID-19 stay home and receive three meals a day. The meals are provided by local restaurants, which in turn receive some economic stimulus during these tough times. On Sept. 10, the state extended the program through at least Oct. 9.

The Great Plates Delivered program for

South Orange County can be found online at greatplates.agewellseniorservices.org or by phone at 949.382.6099.

Age Well can be found online at agewellseniorservices.org or reached by phone at 949.855.8033. Their South County Senior Transportation program can be reached at 949.855.8033.

While food and nutrition may be among the most important and widespread that the Office on Aging provides, there is a wide-ranging list of support that can be found from the office.

The easiest way to find these services is through the Office on Aging’s mobile app, OC Senior Resources. The app, which is available on the iPhone and Android through the App Store and Google Play, provides easy access to all of the Office on Aging’s services and resources, including disability services, caregiver support, employment, education, financial assistance and insurance. The app also has information for hotline numbers, behavioral health Page 18

services, veteran benefits and volunteer opportunities.

When it comes to hotlines and behavioral health services, the Office on Aging provides several ways for seniors to reach out or for neighbors to help out, which is very important during lonelier times in the pandemic.

Seniors feeling anxious, fearful or lonely can call the 24-hour, toll-free Friendship Line California at 1.800.670.1360. Seniors needing emotional support and resources can call or text the 24-hour OC WarmLine at 714.991.6412 or call toll-free at 877.910.8276.

For those looking to help their senior neighbors, the Office on Aging also provides a downloadable postcard to fill out and give to a neighbor to help with groceries, errands, mail or just daily check-ins.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Orange County Office on Aging has stepped up to aid the local senior and aging population and make sure they get through healthy and happy. sanclementetimes.com

The Sun: Advantages, Precautions—and How Much is Too Much?

By Collin Breaux

Sunshine is a double-edged sword of sorts—it can be refreshing and conjure up feelings of beach days and drives down PCH, but it also can be a hazard that causes sunburn and other unpleasant effects.

Given the sun is such a ubiquitous part of South Orange County life, we decided to ask some local medical professionals their perspectives on different aspects of catching some summer rays.

Sun exposure can benefit your mental health.

“It’s well known that sunlight can trigger the release of serotonin, which is a moodboosting neurotransmitter (chemical in the brain) that regulates anxiety, fear, mental focus and feelings of relaxation,” said OC SkinLab founder and CEO Michelle Hure.

What’s excessive exposure is subjective.

The line between a healthy dose and getting burned can depend on your skin type.

Tony Nakhla, a dermatologist and surgeon with OC Skin Institute, said 15 to 20 minutes a day of unprotected sun exposure is OK for some.

Nakhla recommended leaving your face out of that exposure and limiting it to arms, leg and backs of hands.

Be wary of peak UV periods.

Hure recommends keeping exposure to a minimum between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., peak San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

hours of the day when the UV Index is highest.

“In addition, wear Zinc-based sunscreen on all exposed skin and even under clothing if the garment isn’t UPF 50-plus,” Hure said.

“A white T-shirt has an SPF of 6, which is inadequate. Using enough sunscreen and reapplying every 90 minutes or sooner if swimming or sweating are essential.”

The higher, the better, according to Hure, saying “it’s a myth that anything over SPF 30 is all the same.” Hure recommends against using a sunscreen spray on the face.

Overcast conditions won’t necessarily protect you.

Eighty percent of UV radiation penetrates through the atmosphere even on the cloudiest of days, Hure said.

“So, observe the same precautions whether it’s sunny or cloudy,” Hure said. “In fact, I see the worst sunburns happen on cloudy days when people don’t think they need sunscreen.”

Page 19

sanclementetimes.com

Local Knowledge SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Importance of a Smile

BY DR. HAMILTON LE

Local Knowledge

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

The Importance of Gum Health Good oral hygiene is the foundation for the health of your entire body, particularly as one ages. Lack of attention to oral hygiene by failing to brush twice daily and floss at least once a day, may lead to periodontal disease. Genetics, hormonal changes, medications, smoking, immunosuppression, and diabetes are also risk factors that contribute to the development of periodontal disease. 80% of Americans will be afflicted with periodontal disease by age 45, and 4 out of 5 patients with the disease are unaware they have it. Periodontal disease increases with age and 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease is characterized by the inflammation of gum tissue, presence of disease-causing bacteria and infection below the gum line. Infection and bacteria in the mouth can cause bone loss, tissue recession and even tooth loss. These infections and bacteria can spread beyond the mouth and lead to disease in other parts of the body.

Treatment may include deep cleanings, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment procedure), bone regenerative therapy or gum grafting to restore and strengthen tissues that have been damaged.

When should you see a Periodontist? · Unexplained bleeding while brushing or consuming food · Bad breath that continues despite thorough cleaning

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

· Loose teeth or gum recession. (Often times bone loss may be associated with both of these conditions) · Related systemic health concerns such as diabetes, heart disease or osteoporosis.

Periodontists are highly trained surgeons with three + years of training beyond dental school. They work with your general dentist to improve esthetics and achieve optimum dental health. In addition to the treatment of periodontal disease, periodontists remove non-restorable teeth, replace missing teeth with implants, treat gum recession with grafts and re-contour gums (crown lengthening) to improve the restorations of existing teeth.

Dr. Vanessa B. Bikhazi is a Periodontist, practicing at Moran Perio in San Clemente. As a highly trained surgeon, Dr. Bikhazi can perform the following procedures: tooth extractions, crown lengthening, correction of a gummy smile, gum/bone grafting, LANAP (laser assisted new attachment procedure), sinus lifts, and single tooth to full mouth dental implants.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to moranperio.com or call 949.361.4867 (gums).

Page 20

A prosthodontist is a dentist who has completed dental school plus at least three additional years of advanced training and education in a prosthodontic graduate program. They specialize in treating and handling dental and facial problems that involve restoring missing teeth and jaw structures.

The term “prostho” means replacement and “dentist” means dealing with teeth. Essentially, prosthodontists are THE recognized experts when anything needs to be replaced in your mouth. This can range from a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth and gums in the mouth. While many other dentists can do some of these treatments, prosthodontists are the specialists dedicated to this type of care.

Prosthodontists have advanced training in restoring and replacing teeth. Prosthodontists are considered the leaders of the dental treatment plan.

They regularly lead teams of general dentists, specialists, and other health professionals to develop solutions for your dental needs.

They construct oral prostheses to replace missing teeth and associated oral structures with permanent fixtures, such as implant-supported prostheses, crowns and bridges, or removable fixtures such as dentures and removable partial dentures. These specialists also restore function and aesthetics to traumatic injury victims, and to individuals with diseases or birth defects.

Choose a prosthodontist because of their advanced education and training, efficiency, and expertise with advanced technology. Prosthodontists are extensively trained in state-of-the-art techniques and procedures for treating complex dental conditions and restoring optimum function and esthetics.

Rigorous training and experience give prosthodontists a special understanding of the dynamics of a smile and the preservation of a healthy mouth.

Dr. Hamilton Le is a board certified prosthodontist and is part of the Moran Perio team located at the mouth of Talega in San Clemente, He is a native of Southern California who attended UC Berkeley for his undergraduate training. After earning his Bachelor’s Degree, he moved to Boston where he attended dental school and a prosthodontics residency at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.

As the leading prosthodontist in South Orange County, Dr. Le’s commitment to dentistry and patient care is the foundation for his treatment philosophy, providing you the necessary information to understand your dental needs and concerns.

For more information, visit moranperio.com or call 949.361.4867.

sanclementetimes.com

Local Knowledge

Local Knowledge

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TIPS FROM A LOCAL ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY

5 Ways to Get Organized for Yourself, Your Family and/or Your Fiduciaries

Finding the Right Memory Care Searching for memory care for your loved one can be an overwhelming, emotional experience. If you’ve taken the step to look for memory care, you’ve decided that it’s no longer working for your loved one to remain in their own home and you are unable to provide the type of care they need yourself.

This revelation generally comes with a powerful feeling – guilt. Take comfort in knowing that sometimes providing care on your own simply isn’t realistic. You may have a fulltime job, other family members that need your attention, or maybe your loved one has special circumstances that require expert care that you are not qualified to provide.

Any memory care community should offer the basic necessities - safety and security, access to medical care, comfortable accommodations and caring, 24-hour staff. To find a community that’s a wonderful fit for your loved one, look beyond the basics and think about what characteristics will truly help your loved one live their best life. We suggest looking for these two things.

BY JAN A. MEYER As an attorney who assists families with trust administrations and probates, I have seen my fair share of the issues that being disorganized can bring, whether it is when someone is incapacitated or after that person passes away. I have helped a grieving widow with picking up the pieces after her husband passed, including helping her figure out how her bills were paid. I have helped foreign trustees to sort through years of paperwork to determine the estate’s assets and debts.

I have assisted a trustee and agent of a power of attorney take over the day-to-day running of the life of a person with dementia. After all that, I realized that people needed to engage in preemptive organization. There is so much that goes into running your home and your life. If you become incapacitated or you pass away, your family or your nominated fiduciaries (trustees, executors and agents) are left with the responsibility of keeping things going or wrapping things up. Here are FIVE organizational areas that your family or fiduciary would thank you for: Make a list of your physical assets. You should include the cost basis of the asset, the current fair market value of the assets, as well as how the asset is titled, where applicable.

Make a list of your monthly bills, as well as your longterm liabilities. Include information about how these bills and liabilities are paid.

Leave your family and/or agents with all your medical information such as prescriptions, refills, doctors’ contact information, so that your health care can continue without issue in the event of incapacity. If you have an advance health care directive, make sure that it is updated and that

your agent knows its location.

Make a list of your digital assets including passwords to access these accounts. These are online accounts in your name such as email accounts, credit cards, etc. If you have an estate plan, you want to make sure that your fiduciaries have the power to access and manage this class of assets.

Take on some intentional spring cleaning. Throw away unimportant paperwork. Upload photos and videos to an online storage drive. Leave instructions for what to do with your remaining stuff. Families left to do this feel guilty throwing things away and sometimes end up keeping decades of junk out of that guilt.

Finally, keep your lists and instructions updated regularly. In my experience, having these areas organized makes a world of difference for the person(s) who are left to handle it.

Visit my website at danapointwills.com to download a FREE copy of our organizational spreadsheet.

PRO TIP: Leave your printed lists or your computer password and name of your file in an envelope or folder marked “FOR MY FIDUCIARY” in an easily accessible location.

Law Office of Jan A. Meyer Dana Point, CA 949.607.9412 www.danapointwills.com

ROBUST ACTIVITIES • Ask how the community will help your loved one in all dimensions of wellness – physical, social, spiritual and intellectual. Look for a variety of both group and one-on-one activities that are customized to your loved one’s interests and abilities. If they enjoyed cooking, gardening or music prior to entering memory care, find out how these interests can continue to be cultivated. Also, ask how often residents go out for trips, and if activities include children, pets and local events. Until there are better medications, a strong and well-rounded activity program is the currently the most effective way to treat and manage dementia conditions such as Alzheimer’s. The very best programs are designed to engage residents all day, 7 days a week.

HOME-LIKE FEEL • It’s important to find a place where your loved one will feel at home and be treated with the dignity they deserve. Both are things that Serra Sol Memory Care will take to heart. We will create an environment that feels like home and ask all employees to treat residents (and each other) like family. When touring, observe and ask good questions. If you see caregivers interacting with residents – playing games, visiting with them, sharing hugs and smiles – these are all great indications that the environment is warm and loving. Most importantly, trust your instincts. Ask yourself: Does the community have a home-like feel and is it easy to navigate? Does their philosophy of care resonate with me and my family? Would I feel comfortable and at peace if my loved one lived here?

Robust activity programs and a home-like feel are just two things that will make Serra Sol Memory Care truly unique.

A partnership between Protea Senior Living and Agemark Senior Living, Serra Sol is coming to San Juan Capistrano in 2021. For more information visit serrasol.com.

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Page 21

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San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Page 22

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SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

CoastLines by Fred Swegles

Surfer Recalls Teen Misadventure in San Clemente

Y

ou’ve probably seen Chuck Bassett tooling around town in his blue 1956 Chevy station wagon. Or maybe, some years ago, at Ocean Festival woody car shows with his 1946 Ford woody.

Or at surf festivals, displaying collector balsa surfboards that he handcrafts.

Chuck and his wife, Ann, have been San Clemente residents since 1991. If you ask the retired firefighter about the day he discovered San Clemente, try not to laugh.

At age 15, he was a guest in the San Clemente Jail, picked up while hitchhiking to Trestles with two surf buddies.

Let’s go back to 1962. Chuck and two friends hitchhiked—with their surfboards and their parents’ blessing—to Doheny State Beach from a freeway onramp, 25 miles inland, to spend spring break camping and surfing.

Chuck had never heard of San Clemente.

COASTLINES That would change,

By Fred Swegles after he and his pals Jeff, 13, and Keith, 14, learned from older surfers about a magical, forbidden surf spot called Trestles, a few miles south of Doheny on federal property—Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

The boys couldn’t resist risking capture by the Marines to sample some elusive, perfect waves they were told they might have all to themselves.

UH-OH!

Hiding their meager belongings, the trio hitchhiked south from Doheny with their surfboards. Their ride deposited them at El Camino Real and Avenida Santiago in San Clemente. They’d need to thumb again from there to Basilone Road.

They took turns thumbing. A passing police officer eyeballed them.

Chuck, bored as morning wore on, discovered a vacant lot. Maybe he could ride the grassy, weedy slope on his longboard.

“On my last ride, I braved standing up,” he wrote in a memoir, “but had to jump off near the bottom of the hill and landed in some dry brush and trash.”

A paper bag, filled with broken beer bottles, found his right foot.

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

“Blood was pulsating from my toes,” he later wrote. “The extreme pain made it impossible to walk.”

His pals, hearing him scream, lugged him back to the sidewalk. Two off-duty Marines walking by used a USMC uniform belt to apply a tourniquet to Chuck’s thigh. It was noble but unnecessary, Chuck insisted. It also attracted attention.

‘OFFICER FRIENDLY’

The police officer who’d driven by got a radio call reporting a juvenile seriously bleeding. Activating lights and siren, the cop skidded to a halt and bolted from the patrol car without turning off lights and siren. People were gathering. Chuck’s pals were freaking out.

“Officer Friendly,” as Chuck called him, took Chuck to a doctor. His pals and the surfboards were transported to Avenida Miramar, the police station.

Chuck, wearing seven stitches and enduring tetanus shot pain, soon joined his friends, confined to a small jail cell, next to “a scruffy derelict, handcuffed and shackled to a wooden bench.”

criminal,” Chuck wrote. “Within minutes, we were free to go. All the police were interested in was getting us out of there and taking her loud mouth with us.”

In the car, she calmed down.

“She was actually very nice again,” Chuck recalled.

The next day, the boys were back at Doheny. Thrilled to find their belongings untouched, the boys resumed surfing.

To protect his foot from infection, Chuck surfed in tennis shoes and socks.

Other surfers “stared at me like I was nuts,” Chuck recalled. “I had to ensure I rinsed my feet and kept my stitched foot dry and clean, and stay out of the infamous Polio Pond near the lifeguard shack at Doheny.”

COMING OF AGE

The shackled prisoner threatened to shed his handcuffs, beat up the boys and escape jail, taking their money.

“As if we had any money,” Chuck wrote. “He was trying his best to scare us until Keith reminded him that he was secured to the bench, handcuffed, and was helpless and in no position to threaten anyone. ‘Why don’t you just shut up, you idiot jailbird!’ That ended his tirade.”

Still, the boys had to coexist with him.

Keith’s mom wouldn’t get off work until 5 p.m., would have to drive to San Clemente and would not be in a good mood.

Years later, graduating college with studies in woodworking and industrial arts, Chuck said he tried teaching middle school shop classes in Garden Grove.

“Not at all fun being cooped up all day long with hormone-filled adolescents capable of murdering you just to get a few laughs from the other students,” he said.

In 1970, he took firefighter exams for Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and Costa Mesa. Costa Mesa hired him, after he had interviewed with Deputy Chief Ron Coleman, who would later become San Clemente’s fire chief.

Chuck and Ann raised two daughters.

When the girls went off to college, the parents sold their Tustin home, moving to San Clemente.

This time, there was no jailhouse welcome. The waves at Doheny, San Onofre and Trestles would have to do. Retiring from CMFD in 2001, Chuck focused, for fun, on surfing and woodworking—fineart balsa surfboards.

GOING BALLISTIC

DANA POINT MONUMENT

SCRUFFY CELLMATE

“She took one look at our sad selves and our hardcore cellmate and went ballistic,” Chuck wrote.

Only not at the boys.

“She ranted and raved at the top of her lungs at the police officers on duty for placing three young boys in a cell with a

He helped the Hobie Memorial Foundation create Waterman’s Park in Dana Point.

Major contributors to sculptures of surf pioneers were offered a limited-edition, 9-foot balsa Hobie Phil Edwards model.

“Whenever I pass through Dana Point, I make a point to admire the bronze Page 23

Clockwise from top: San Clemente resident, Chuck Bassett removes one of his handcrafted balsa Hobie Phil Edwards model surfboards from his 1956 Chevy station wagon. Bassett in his vintage surfmobile. Photos: Fred Swegles.

Chuck Bassett, 15, at left in 1962 with his buddies Jeff, 13, and Keith, 14. Photo: Courtesy of Bassett family

sculptures of Phil, Hobie and Bruce Brown and feel very proud I was a part of this project,” Chuck wrote.

The storyteller is compiling his memoirs, a potential autobiography of colorful coming-of-age tales and adult adventures, reliving surf culture as it evolved on and around the beaches at Newport, Doheny, San Clemente, Trestles and San Onofre.

Fred Swegles is a longtime San Clemente resident with five decades of reporting experience in the city. Fred can be reached at fswegles@picketfencemedia.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes. com. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

SC

TO ADVERTISE: 949.388.7700, EXT. 111 • LEGALS@PICKETFENCEMEDIA.COM

San Clemente

PUBLIC NOTICE ORDINANCE NO. 1704 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Clemente, at its Regular Meeting of September 15, 2020, adopted the following ordinance: Ordinance No. 1704 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 17.28.185 OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE (RELATING TO MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENTS) AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT. Persons interested in receiving an inspection copy of the Ordinance are invited to call the Deputy City Clerk at (949) 361-8301 or by email at campagnolol@san-clemente.org. Copies will be emailed or mailed to you at no cost.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the abovereferenced Ordinance was introduced at the City Council meeting of September 1, 2020 and was adopted at the Regular City Council meeting of September 15, 2020 by the following vote: AYES:

HAMM, JAMES, WARD, MAYOR PRO TEM FERGUSON

NOES:

NONE

ABSENT: NONE JOANNE BAADE City Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON OCTOBER 7, 2020 A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: Zoning Amendment 20-258 – Lot Consolidation Ordinance A request to consider a Zoning Amendment to incorporate Section 17.24.230, Lot Consolidation, into the San Clemente Municipal Code.

Section 17.24.230 establishes development standards and policies providing developers incentives for the consolidation of standard and substandard lots in compliance with objectives in the City of San Clemente Housing Element Action Plan Program 2 with the goal to promote increased housing options in residential and mixed-use zones.

Staff recommends that the zoning amendment not be considered a “project” as defined by the State CEQA Guidelines Section 21065 & 15378(a)(1).

This application is on file at the City of San Clemente Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California, and is available for public inspection and comment by contacting the Community Development Department at (949) 361-6183. 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.

Notice is further given that said public hearing will be conducted by the City of San Clemente PlanSan Clemente Times September 24–30, 2020

ning Commission and held via teleconference on Wednesday, October 7, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. Please note that to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, the public may not physically attend the meeting. However, to participate citizens may: 1. Listen to the meeting via live stream from the City’s YouTube channel at www.san-clemente. org/live or live on Cox Communications Local Access Channel 854; and 2. Submit any comments on agenda items to the Planning Commission electronically. Material may be emailed to ScottM1@san-clemente.org.

Transmittal by 3:00 p.m. on Planning Commission meeting days is recommended.

Further information may be obtained by contacting the Planning Division at (949) 361-6183.

Secretary to the San Clemente Planning Commission

LOC ALS O NLY

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ADDICTION RECOVERY TREATMENT Body Mind Spirit Intensive Outpatient Program 665 Camino De Los Mares, Ste. 104, 949.485.4979, bodymindspiritiop.com

ATTORNEY Rosen Law Offices, P.C. 34118 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite 5, Dana Point, CA 92629, 949.335.0020, snrosenlaw.com

PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206584158 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SEAWIND FOODS 120 ½ S EL CAMINO REAL, STE 202 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 Full Name of Registrant(s): SEAWIND INTERNATIONAL, LLC 120 ½ S EL CAMINO REAL, STE 202 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92672 This business is conducted by CA Limited Liability Company.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 04/09/2014 /s/SEAWIND INTERNATIONAL, LLC /s/ GARRY GREEN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 9/10/2020.

Published in: San Clemente Times September 24, October 1, 8, 15, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206582936 The following person(s) is doing business as: 1. VETERINARY REHABILITATION & ORTHOPEDIC MEDICINE PARTNERS 6332 CAMINO MARINERO SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673-9267 ADDITIONAL FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME(S): 1B. VROMP Full Name of Registrant(s): CARG OPCO, LLC 6332 CAMINO MARINERO SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673-9267 This business is conducted by DE Limited Liability Company.

The registrant commenced to transact business under the Fictitious Business Name or Names listed above on: 04/01/2020 /s/CARG OPCO, LLC /s/BRIAN BURGESS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the Orange County Clerk-Recorder On 8/25/2020 Publish: San Clemente Times September 17, 24, October 1, 8, 2020

Complete your required legal or public notice advertising in the San Clemente Times.

EMAIL legals@picketfencemedia.com CALL 949.388.7700, ext. 111

DENTISTS Benjamin Stevens, D.D.S. 3553 Camino Mira Costa, suite B, 949.493.2391, benstevensdds.com Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, drericjohnson.com

ELECTRICAL

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

Write-up of 50 words with logo. Four weeks in print and online.

Contact Lauralyn at 949.388.7700, ext. 102

REALTORS

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, arcadiaelectric.com

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

Braker Electric 949.291.5812, Lic# 719056 Insured

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

MUSIC LESSONS Cello and Bass Academy 310.895.6145, celloandbassacademy.com

CLASSIFIEDS

RESTAURANTS Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE – SEPT. 26 Saturday, September 26th 8am-2pm. 55 Via Armilla, San Clemente. Electronics, housewares, teen girls/ boys clothes, misc. items, wetsuits, surfboards, boogie boards, accessories, girls bike. Lots of stuff.

GARAGE SALE SEPT. 25 & SEPT. 26 Friday, Sept. 25 and Saturday, Sept. 26. 8am -2pm.

25442 Westborne Dr., Dana Point. Electronics, Tools, Christmas, Etc.

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com Deadline 5pm Monday.

No phone calls please.

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

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556, danmans.com Rock Club Music School 73 Via Pico Plaza, 949.463.1968, beachcitiesrockclub.com

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

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

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

Page 24

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY In print and online 52 weeks a year.

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SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Page 25

sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Wellness & Prevention by Lauren Gallegos

Finding Your Anchor in Times of Need

I

n 2018, 48,344 Americans died by suicide—an average of 132 per day. It is the leading cause of death for teens nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced in a survey conducted this spring that one in four people, ages 18-25, reported seriously considering suicide in the past year.

We are currently in the midst of two pandemics: COVID-19 and the WELLNESS AND diseases of mental health PREVENTION and addiction. While we

By Lauren Gallegos do not know how the coronavirus pandemic will affect suicide rates (already distressingly high), mental

health experts point to several factors, including isolation and increased substance use, that could increase the risk for suicide.

What is important to know is that suicide is preventable. Both national and local organizations support prevention efforts.

Suicideispreventable.org suggests the following:

Know the Signs Most people who are considering suicide show some warning signs or signals of their intentions. Refer to the site above to learn about these warning signs and how to respond.

Find the Words If you are concerned about someone, ask them directly, “Are you planning to kill yourself?” This can be difficult to do, but being direct provides an opportunity for them to open up and talk about their distress.

Reach Out Crisis lines, such as 1.800.273.8255 (TALK), provide 24/7 support, as well as free and confidential assistance from trained counselors. You can also text

support, and inspiration. I wanted those in need to open the box and think ‘someone cared enough to make this for me.’ ” In honor of National Suicide Prevention Week, 1,000 Find Your Anchor boxes were sent out into the Orange County communities by the Orange County Health Care Agency. The Wellness & Prevention Center has partnered with Find Your Anchor to place additional boxes around San Clemente.

If you see a box and need it, take it, keep it for as long as you need and add your own anchors to the box, then leave it for the next person in need. Through this process, we can create a community anchored in care and support.

Lauren Gallegos, ACSW, is the Prevention Director at the Wellness & Prevention Center. She leads the Wellness & Prevention Coalition and cares deeply about the mental health of fellow community members. You can reach her at lauren@ wpc-oc.org. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

Sudoku

Adoptable Pets of the Week: Louisa & Clara

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

L

ouisa and Clara are quite the delightful duo. These two little guinea pigs are not only cute, they also are fairly easy to handle. Take them home, and they will fill your days with loveable squeaks and adorable squeals.

If you are interested in adopting Louisa or Clara, 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. SC

HOME to 741741.

San Clemente resident Ali Borowsky founded “Find Your Anchor” (findyouranchor.us) based upon her idea that people need secure connections to keep them firmly planted in this world.

Borowsky experienced mental health treatment that felt sterile and wanted to create community resources that fostered organic support. She developed a program that curates prevention boxes filled with materials designed to inspire and offer support.

Borowsky states, “I really wanted something that spoke to the person holding the box. This movement in a lot of ways is a physical representation of me being fortunate enough to be in a better spot— the physical representation of being ‘anchored’ and wanting to pay that forward.”

Find Your Anchor does not presume to be the anchor, or have all the answers.

Rather, it sets out to create a community of hope and support through blue boxes filled with meaningful activities and messages.

Borowsky says, “For those contemplating suicide, there is an overwhelming sense of loneliness and abandonment, despair, hopelessness. I wanted something specifically for them, a box full of ideas,

Louisa and Clara. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

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

See the solution in next week’s issue.

Local Real Estate By Local Experts Jeremy Conrad Broker, DRE# 01279209 949.542.8348 Jconrad@conradrealestate.com Bill Conrad Broker, DRE# 01461548 949.542.8349 Billc@conradrealestate.com Steve Conrad Property Manager, DRE# 01297404 949.542.8347 Stevec@conradrealestate.com San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Did you know that...

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• There are only 129 active homes for sale in San Clemente and in the last 30 days there have been 260 pending and closed sales.

• Out of the last 30 days of sales in San Clemente, the average sales price is $1,295,500 and took 36 days to sell.

• Out of the 739 homes that have sold so far this year in San Clemente, 5 homes sold as a bank owned properties, while 734 sales were standard sales and closings.

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It’s time to expect more…

Established 1963

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SC LIVING

Contributor: San Clemente Historical Society

FROM THE ARCHIVES The Royal Knights Dance Band at San Clemente’s Elks Lodge, circa 1960. Leader Sam Tiberi is second from right.

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.

GUEST OPINION: Historical Happenings by Tom Marshall

Unable to Say Goodbye to a Local Legend

A

s this publication reported at the time, legendary local businessman and personality Sam Tiberi (Sam’s Shoes) passed away this past March. Due to the restrictions from the COVID-19 pandemic, Tiberi’s family and friends have been denied the opportunity to say a last farewell.

The grieving process remains incomplete.

Sam’s wife, Carol, had planned a Celebration of Life service for the first Monday after Christmas this year, figuring the pandemic would be under control by then. Unfortunately, the virus is still very much with us.

In an email last week, Carol reluctantly informed her pastor that the service would have to be canceled. As she put it, “His death has left a huge void in my heart/life, and COVID has prevented our family from honoring his life and finding closure.”

A sad ending to the life of a wonderful man.

In 2017, Sam was honored by the San Clemente HISTORICAL Historical Society in a HAPPENINGS program highlighting his

By Tom Marshall many achievements. After Marine Corps service at Camp Pendleton, Sam opened his first San Clemente store in 1953.

As he put it, “It was a real roll of the dice opening a shoe repair store in a town where people mostly wore sandals and tennis shoes.”

But his business soon took off when an ofSan Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

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ficer from the base asked if Sam could repair some of his troops’ boots. Sam assured him he could. A short time later, the Marine returned with 268 pairs of boots.

“I was up all night for a week repairing boots,” Tiberi recalled.

Expanding the business twice to include shoe sales, Sam’s Shoes has been one of the largest stores on Avenida Del Mar for years.

During the 1970s, even President Richard Nixon’s family shopped there. Sam made the first shoes for daughter Julie Nixon’s first baby.

Another time, Sam was busy at work and heard someone come in and noticed it was Julie.

“Hi, Sam. Do you know my dad?” she asked.

And there stood the President of the United States and several Secret Service agents. The President asked for a tour of his repair shop and seemed very interested.

Another time, a Secret Service agent appeared with a briefcase belonging to Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and asked Sam to repair it, which he did. When the agent came to pick it up, Sam presented him the bill, for $1.25.

Asked to bill the White House, Sam responded, “That’s OK. It’s on me.” A few days later, a “thank you” letter arrived, signed by Kissinger on White House stationery.

Sam was also known as an accomplished musician. He led and played the trumpet and trombone in the local Royal Knights Dance Band, which was quite popular in the region during the 1950s and ’60s.

In lieu of a traditional Celebration of Life, the family has posted a nice video highlighting Sam’s life on YouTube. Type in Celebration of Life. Then Sam Tiberi.

Tom Marshall is a member of the San Clemente Historical Society and a retired journalist. 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. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

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SC San Clemente

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

A New York San Clemente Aquatics hires Jason York as head coach, aims for growth

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

an Clemente Aquatics has a new man at the helm, as the program announced the hiring of 21-year coaching veteran Jason York as head coach on Monday, Sept. 21.

York takes over after the retirement of previous head coach Goran Westerlund earlier this month. Westerlund joined San Clemente Aquatics as a head age group coach in 2012 and became the club’s head coach in 2015.

After a national search for Westerlund’s successor, York was selected from his position as head coach of the Buenaventura Swim Club in Ventura, California, where he’s coached for the past 13 years of his 21-year swim coaching career. York will officially start with San Clemente Aquatics on Oct. 5.

“It was clear to the Hiring Committee from the beginning of our interview process that Jason was special and really stood out,” said Yann de Fabrique, president of the Board of Directors for San Clemente Aquatics. “He has energy, enthusiasm and passion for the sport balanced with maturity and strong technical skills, making him the ideal candidate to lead our club into its next chapter.”

In his swimming career, York competed at the Santa Clara Swim Club and at UC Santa Barbara and reached the 1992 Olympic Trials in the distance freestyle.

As a coach, York began at the Santa Clara Swim Club for eight years before moving to Buenaventura Swim Club to take on the head coaching role. At Buenaventura, York raised the club to a USA Swimming Silver Medal Club and led the team to a summer Junior National Championship. York coached many championship finalists, a National Junior Team swimmer and several Olympic Trials swimmers, with many of those accomplishments coming in the past five years.

York told the San Clemente Aquatics Hiring Committee that he has an “athlete-first” mentality to coaching, and “will always teach and coach with love.” The Hiring Committee was also impressed by his focus on proper technique and stroke development for swimmers at each age level. ‘“I do not believe great swims happen by accident,” York told San Clemente San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

Jason York is the new head coach of San Clemente Aquatics. Photo: San Clemente Aquatics

Aquatics. “I believe the progression of a swimmer to a world class athlete can be a planned event. I believe with proper guidance, a young athlete who has guts, determination, and a tough mentality makes his or her own reality. My program will offer each of my swimmers the opportunity to create their own reality and realize their potential.”

San Clemente Aquatics believes the hiring of York has put them in a strong position to grow the club into an even more competitive organization. San Clemente Aquatics, which was founded in 1975 and moved into the San Clemente Aquatics Center at Vista Hermosa Park in 2011, currently trains approximately 200 swimmers.

San Clemente Aquatics sees York’s hire as allowing the top swimmers of South Orange County the ability to train at a high level without needing to travel elsewhere up the freeway.

“We are fortunate to have so much swimming talent in South Orange County,” de Fabrique said. “By hiring top-notch coaches, we feel our team has the capacity to both grow its membership and achieve more swimming success on a national scale.”

York will add to his coaching staff soon, in addition to maintaining existing staff, to up the level of the entire club.

“We are a very family-oriented town here in San Clemente, and our team will continue to serve the varying requisites for all age groups from casual engagement all the way through to competitive swimming,” said Sarah Schneider, San Clemente Aquatics’ Board of Directors communication director. “We are looking to improve our programs across the board to ensure we are serving our community’s needs, and Jason is the type of coach to lead us there.” SC Page 29

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SC SC SURF San Clemente

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Making Sense of Why Surf Comes in Sets

As season’s first northwest swell hits California this week, a quick surf science primer

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

B

arreling into the weekend, there’s a small northwest swell on tap, which can mean only one thing: winter’s not too far behind. We still have a good-sized southwest swell lining up for the first half of next week, so summer’s not totally gone, but the seasonal shift definitely is in play.

But before you go dusting off those bigwave pintails, keep in mind this northwest swell isn’t going to bring a ton of surf to our Dana Point and San Clemente bubble.

The swell is coming in at a relatively steep direction and will largely be shadowed due to a narrow swell window and the offshore islands.

“The position of that system will have it send a pretty selective event, but it should be enough for fun surf at winter focal points in South San Diego, with parts of Los Angeles and Ventura seeing a few decent waves for Friday into the weekend, 25th-27th,” reports Surfline lead forecaster Schaler Perry.

Ideally, winter swells for our immediate area come at us from the North Pacific at a 260- to 280-degree angle with an 18-second period. Anything steeper or with a short

With the first northwest swell of the season looming in the forecast, there are more waves on the way as we shift gears toward the winter surf season. Photo: Courtesy of Pixabay

period generally rolls right past us.

One of the aspects of winter swells in California that’s so alluring is that they arrive from a much shorter distance than our summertime swells, and, thus, the consistency of the surf is usually much better (i.e., more waves for everyone).

Most south swells are generated at the bottom of the world off the coasts of New Zealand and Fiji. There are more than 5,000 miles between Fiji and California, which means the swells travel a massive distance before arriving on our shore. This gives the bands of energy more time to spread out.

Meanwhile, it’s about 2,000 miles from the Gulf of Alaska to Dana Point. This means that northwest swells generally arrive with more intensity and frequency.

This brings up the question of “set waves” and why waves typically travel in groups. Why don’t they just continuously bombard the shore?

“The wind in the midst of storms usually does blow in intervals, which we call gusts,” explained Surfline founder Sean Collins, prior to his passing in 2011. “The primary swell-producing component of wind is consistency. So, the lower-

sustained, most consistent end of the wind speed spectrum is what really generates the swell. But still, the more the wind gusts above that range, the more energy is transferred into the water.”

“Once the swell leaves the stormgenerating area, the swell energy bonds together and travels in groups of waves we call sets,” Collins continued. “The waves within the sets cycle together with other waves, which helps to conserve their energy over vast distances of ocean.”

Makes enough sense, but then why do we see some sets arrive every 15 minutes with only one or two waves, and other sets arrive every five minutes with 10 waves in each set?

According to Collins, low pressure systems without a solid high-pressure system filling behind in the low will result in gusty, erratic winds. The winds may range from 20-50 knots but aren’t sustained enough to transfer enough energy into the water. As a result, there may be some big waves, but the number of waves per set will be fewer, and the consistency of the sets will be less frequent.

On the other hand, strong high pressure following a storm creates stronger, more con-

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

THOMAS ROCHER

Water Temperature: 67-69 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 6-10 ’

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

O

n Sunday, I was walking up the trail after a fitful session at The Trestle and had the good fortune to run into Thomas Rocher and his father, Marius. There are few things better in life than watching a kid fall in love with the ocean, and young Thomas, as the adage goes, has been bitten by the surfing bug.

Like most kids from San Clemente, Thomas started out on a boogie board at the local beach breaks before graduating to stand-up surfing at spots including San Onofre and Doheny.

The last time I saw him out at San O, it took a while to recognize him, as his style had transcended grom status and become absolutely impeccable. He’s evolved into a graceful, elegant surfer. It’s awesome.

When he and his pops aren’t chasing waves together, you may find them freediving up and down the coast. And like the great Hobie Alter, Thomas is also fascinated with building and flying gliders.

After Alter perfected his designs above the hills and bluffs San Clemente Times September 24-30, 2020

sistent sustained wind speeds, which will not only result in a bigger swell, but also more waves per set and more consistent sets.

Another part of the equation has to do with the “fetch” that a low-pressure system possesses. Fetch is defined as the distance that indicates how far the wind has traveled over open water.

“Everybody knows fetch length is an important component, but the width of the fetch plays a huge role in the number of waves per set and the set consistency,” Collins explained.

The focal point of the swell also plays a role in how many waves roll in your way.

The energy of a swell will be focused on a specific geographic region. The further you get away from the focal point, the less consistent the sets will be and the fewer the waves will be in each set.

And, finally, local factors are also hugely important. The bathymetry and the ocean floor of your spot will define what type of waves you’ll experience.

For example, Black’s Beach in La Jolla features a deep underwater canyon that focuses and magnifies a swell’s energy, which is why it can be double overhead at Black’s and chest-high at nearby La Jolla Shores.

It’s a complicated dance with tons of variables, but as we get ready for our first northwest swell of the season, it’s a great time to brush up on your surf science— and dust off that prized pintail.

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 the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times, 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

Thursday: Mix of South/southwest swells and smaller Northwest swell for waist-stomachshoulder high surf, (2-3-4’). Light/variable morning winds, turn to a light+ sea breeze for the afternoon.

Thomas Rocher. Photo: Courtesy of the Rocher family

around Dana Point and San Clemente, the Hobie Hawk was released in the mid-’70s, and while it was overshadowed by Hobie’s advancements in surfboards and catamaran designs, surfing the airwaves was a big part of Hobie’s life for years.

From surfboards to gliders, Thomas shares the same inquisitiveness and inventiveness as Hobie, and as time passes, it’s going to be awesome to see where he goes from here. SC Page 30

Outlook: On Friday a combination of South/ southwest swell and Northwest swell rolls in with waist-stomach-chest high waves, (2-3-4’).

South winds at 6-11kts due most of the day Friday. Continuing blend of southerly swells and Northwest swell maintains waist-stomachchest high zone surf, (2-3-4’), through the weekend. Light+ onshore winds persist over the weekend.

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