SCT 11/23/23

INSIDE: HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

NOVEMBER 23 - NOVEMBER 29, 2023 | VOLUME 18, ISSUE 47

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N E W S

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Almsgiving Altruists Community Outreach Alliance Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary, Award for Service E Y E O N S C / PAG E 3 (From left) Community Outreach Alliance Entertainment lead Joanne Angeli stands with COA Board President Jennifer Aquino and COA Food Connection lead Molly Flores after COA received a Harvesters Innovative Service Award.

Photo: Courtesy of Jennifer Aquino

sanclementetimes.com

Family, Friends Mourn Loss of Tatum Goodwin

Coastal City Leaders Discuss Eroding Coastline

SCHS Boys Cross Country Runs it Back at CIF Finals

EYE ON SC / PAGE 3

EYE ON SC / PAGE 4

SPORTS / PAGE 21

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San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

9/28/23 10:48 AM

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EYE ON SC

Family, Friends Mourn Loss of Tatum Goodwin

BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO

To those who knew her best, Tatum Goodwin was a mix of silly and goofy. But more importantly, she was kind and caring, only wanting to make everyone around her happy.

“Her whole mission in life was to make sure other people were happy and OK, and that they felt seen and heard and loved,” shared Madison Moyer, Tatum’s best friend.

“She had a lot of hurt in her life, and she never wanted anybody else to go through that. She tried her damnedest.”

In the words of her mother, Stacy Goodwin-Pitino, Tatum was “just a happy-golucky person.”

She “would give you the shirt off her back … she’s just really special,” Goodwin-Pitino described to reporters of her 27-year-old daughter, a San Clemente resident and restaurant manager who was killed in Laguna Beach earlier this month.

Tatum’s impact on the community was punctuated by the outpouring of love and support that was expressed during a candlelight vigil held on Nov. 15 at the San Clemente Pier, where Goodwin-Pitino and Moyer were among hundreds of people who gathered in the rain to mourn.

“She had so much love around here and people that cared. Just knowing that she touched so many hearts, it’s …” the grieving Goodwin-Pitino said, unable to complete the thought.

Community Outreach Alliance Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary, Award for Service

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

When San Clemente-based nonprofit Community Outreach Alliance (COA) received an award from the Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County for its work in the local community, the recognition marked another feather in the organization’s cap.

It also reflected the level of continued service COA has provided to the area since its inception in 2013, which the organization has highlighted in celebrating its 10-year anniversary all year long.

Jennifer Aquino, president of the COA Board of Directors, attended the Nov. 7 event with Molly Flores, lead for the organization’s Food Connection program, and COA Enter-

“Her light shines so bright, it impacted so many different people, so many people around her,” said Kaylee Goodwin, Tatum’s sister. “I’m so glad that she had such an amazing support system around her, that it means the world to me more than anything. Like the group of people that she had around her was just beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.”

It was the morning of Nov. 12 when a construction worker in Laguna Beach discovered Tatum’s body in a secluded location near the 200 block of Ocean Avenue— near Carmelita’s, the restaurant she worked at for four years and was an assistant manager.

Detectives with the Laguna Beach Police Department launched a homicide investigation, which led to the arrest of 26-yearold Dino Rojas-Moreno on suspicion of murder, authorities announced the same day as the vigil.

“This arrest was the result of outstanding police work by our Investigations team that worked tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to bring justice to Tatum Goodwin and her family,” Laguna Beach Police Chief Jeff Calvert said in a statement.

By Friday afternoon, Nov. 17, new details began to emerge in the murder case.

Rojas-Moreno was formally charged with murder in court on Friday, several news outlets reported. In the criminal complaint filed with the Orange County Superior Court, prosecutors alleged that Rojas-Moreno used a fire extinguisher to kill Tatum, while trying to kidnap her.

Rojas-Moreno’s bail was initially set for $1 million, according to Laguna PD. However, prosecutors recommended Friday that he be held without bail.

Madison Moyer places a candle during a vigil set up on Nov. 15 to honor Tatum Goodwin, a 27-year-old restaurant worker who was killed in Laguna Beach earlier this month. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Addressing the news of the arrest on the night of the vigil, Kaylee said it provides some peace of mind.

“We can provide everybody with peace of mind that there has been an arrest,” Kaylee said, adding: “So, there is some type of peace there, but there’s never going to be full peace for what has happened to Tatum.”

In a GoFundMe page that Carmelita’s owner Marcos Salim Heredia started for Tatum’s memorial services, he shared how much of a hard worker she was and how she had become part of the fabric of the beachtown community.

“Tatum was a very hard-working young

tainment lead Joanne Angeli.

Among six entities to receive the Harvesters Innovative Service Award 2023, which included a check for $10,000, COA spoke with San Clemente Times this past week about the nonprofit’s gratitude for the award and excitement for the future after 10 years of service.

“It’s quite an honor to be chosen and be able to use that money to focus it on our Food Connection (program), to get new refrigerators, new supplies and tables,” Aquino said.

She added that the funds also provide a feeling of security in knowing that COA can continue to have a successful food distribution setup.

Following the 2013 deaths of 14 San Clemente children because of drug overdoses, a group of people joined forces to form an organization that would offer healthy opportunities and resources for local youth.

“Some of the people just got up and said, ‘No more,’ ” explained Aquino, who has been involved with COA in various capacities since 2017.

The organization supports the community

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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lady and always kept a smile on her face,” Heredia wrote. “Over the years, she had expressed her pleasure to be in Laguna and have her opportunity with us. We felt that we really had a family member here with us.”

Heredia said the restaurant staff is in disbelief by the tragedy, further explaining that he launched the GoFundMe campaign to raise the capital for services, as he didn’t want Tatum to “go unforgotten.”

Heredia set a goal of raising $20,000. As of Friday afternoon, the campaign had raised just shy of $32,000.

Editor’s Note: An extended version of this story can be found at sanclementetimes.com.

The San Clemente-based Community Outreach Alliance looks to expand its reach of providing food to the community while celebrating its 10th anniversary. Photo: Courtesy of Jennifer Aquino

sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

COMMUNITY MEETINGS SATURDAY, NOV. 25

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

with free food, music outreach and other resources through collaboration with community partners. Through its Food Connection program, COA feeds roughly 1,200 families, military members and seniors. The nonprofit also gives children opportunities to showcase their talents with the COA Entertainment program.

Throughout 2023, Aquino said COA has received significant community support, awards, grants and other types of recognition, contributing to a “really amazing year.”

It also combined with multiple local partners to host the San Clemente Music Festival in May, when COA held its main event to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

“I believe it’s a huge accomplishment,” Aquino said of hitting the decade milestone.

“There’s a lot of nonprofits that come and go.”

The organization has experienced its fair share of hard times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic that forced COA leadership to restructure its operations.

Thanks to a “really strong” Board of Directors and a dedicated contingent of volunteers,

Aquino added, people have expended significant effort to keep the organization running and follow the objective of expanding COA’s presence.

“We have a really bright future,” she said.

“I feel like we’re reaching more people and (seeing) more awareness of our programs, and we’re partnering with more community programs, so that way we can grow stronger.”

That growth is what Aquino pointed to as how she’s seen COA evolve since starting her involvement. She also mentioned the work of Angeli, whose booking of numerous events that allow youth to perform has led to additional exposure for the organization.

In addition to COA’s current challenge of the increase in monthly rent, there’s also a desire to find more volunteers to match the organization’s rising outreach and bring in new board members who provide a fresh perspective.

“We’ve had the same board members for a long time, so we’re always looking for some fresh, new voices to give us new ideas

on how we can expand and grow,” Aquino said.

Looking forward, COA has two priorities, according to Aquino. The first is to have more resources available such as COVID tests and fentanyl tests for their staff and volunteers to hand out at booths at community events.

The other is to expand people’s understanding of nearby community resources, whether on the organization’s website or through other communication methods.

Aquino said COA is holding a clothing and toy drive, of which the donations will be available for people to take home at the upcoming Food Connection event on Dec. 11.

The organization holds Food Connection distributions on the second and fourth Monday of every month, at the Baha’i Center, located at 3316 Avenida del Presidente.

More information about the nonprofit’s ongoing clothing and toy drives, as well as on how to donate to the organization, can be found at communityoutreachalliance.com.

TUESDAY, NOV. 28

Public Safety Committee 3-5 p.m. The city’s Public Safety Committee will conduct a regularly scheduled meeting at San Clemente City Hall, located at 910 Calle Negocio. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

Because I Love You (BILY) 6:30-8:30 p.m. The organization Because I Love You (BILY), which helps parents navigate through whatever parenting challenges they may be facing (e.g., failure to launch, substance misuse, disrespect), conducts its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference and in person/Zoom the first Tuesday of each month at the Outlets at San Clemente’s Conference Room. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 29

Design Review Subcommittee 3-4:30 p.m. The city’s Design Review Subcommittee will conduct a regularly scheduled meeting at San Clemente City Hall, located at 910 Calle Negocio. 949.361.8200. san-clemente.org.

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

Coastal City Leaders Discuss Eroding Coastline

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Officials from the cities of Dana Point and San Clemente met with other city leaders from North San Diego County last month to discuss issues related to coastal erosion and sand nourishment.

The Coastal/California 7 Summit, or C7 Summit, was attended by the mayors of Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Oceanside and Solana Beach, in addition to those from the South Orange County cities.

All the cities have beaches included in the Oceanside Littoral Cell, which contains its own cycle of sedimentation and determines how sand gets transported to each beach. San Clemente Mayor Chris Duncan said the decision to come together stemmed from the theory that the cities would see better results relating to coastal erosion solutions by acting together.

“We, meaning myself and City Manager Andy Hall, broached the idea with some other cities about getting together to see if there might be some areas of commonality, to see where there’s areas where there might be different approaches that could be valuable for us that we haven’t used yet,” said Duncan.

He expressed gratitude to Oceanside Mayor Esther Sanchez for hosting the event, adding that the October meeting was a time for sharing ideas and the progress each municipality has made.

The group also discussed what to do next, in terms of when to meet and potentially collaborating to receive funds from the state government, according to Duncan, who called the meeting “very productive and strategic.”

An October meeting known as the “C7 Summit” saw leaders from seven cities from the counties of Orange and San Diego discuss topics related to coastal erosion and sand retention solutions. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

“I think others felt that way, too,” he said.

“It was the first step in hopefully a longer process of facilitating some cooperation between us, because alone, we don’t have the resources to tackle a major regional problem like this.”

Dana Point Mayor Mike Frost added that he saw the meeting as important, because it gave the cities an opportunity to understand each other’s ideas, saying that Dana Point would participate in similar efforts in any way possible.

Additionally, the leaders reviewed the City of Oceanside’s actions related to the coastline, as Oceanside is “probably a little farther down the road” regarding a largescale solution,” Duncan said.

Oceanside is in the planning stages of a pilot sand retention project and a program to annually deliver 150,000 cubic yards of sand to its shoreline, in addition to other initiatives led by the city’s recently hired Coastal Zone Administrator, Jayme Tim-

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berlake. The creation of that new position helped encourage the City of San Clemente to contract Leslea Meyerhoff for the same role in early October.

“In reviewing some of the ideas for Oceanside, it really was illuminating on how we’re probably going to eventually approach it,” Duncan said. “It does highlight that every beach isn’t the same, and a different approach is going to work at a different beach.”

Another realization Duncan mentioned was that residents would prefer San Clemente not implement large structures that negatively impact local beaches and their respective surf environments.

“I was pretty pleased, because there’s always the possibility that we’re so out of alignment that there’s really no room for working together,” Duncan said. “I get the impression that we have different situations and potentially different approaches, but there was a lot of commonality and a lot of willingness to work together in those areas of commonality.” sanclementetimes.com

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San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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EYE ON SC

State Water Commission Seeks Input on Drought Resilience Strategies

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

As California looks to prepare for ongoing periods of both drought and floods, the state’s Water Commission seeks resident input on a draft white paper titled “Potential State Strategies for Protecting Communities and Fish and Wildlife in the Event of Drought.”

Over the past 18 months, the Water Commission has collaborated with communities, nonprofit organizations, tribes, local governments, water districts, academia, as well as local and state agencies, to develop key strategies for drought resilience.

The state is now in the final stages of developing the white paper. Californians have until Dec. 15 to submit a comment on the draft document.

California Water Commission Assistant Executive Officer Laura Jensen explained that one of the first themes to emerge early on in the commission’s research for the document is the need to prepare for drought during nondrought times.

“That’s because we do get years where we’ve got high flows and a lot of water, a lot of precipitation like we had over the last winter, and if we can manage that water better, then we’re going to be better-positioned heading into drought years,” Jensen said.

The first key strategy outlined in the draft is the need to scale up groundwater recharge, invest in water storage and capture excess water during flood events to recharge groundwater basins.

“So, the commission is calling for scaling up groundwater recharge,” Jensen said. “It’s something that really got piloted a lot in the past year.”

“What we’re calling for is continuing to build on those efforts by planning ahead. Where can we do groundwater recharge in a way that’s going to maximize benefits for communities and for fish and wildlife? That was really the focus of the work that we were asked to do,” Jensen continued.

However, the draft white paper notes that

Supervisor Foley Expands Annual Winter Coat Drive

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

As Orange County Fifth District Supervisor Katrina Foley brings back her annual Holiday New Coats for Kids Drive for the 15th year, she is looking to expand the initiative across her district.

“while important, groundwater recharge alone is unlikely to lead to sustainable groundwater management. Managing groundwater demand is also likely to be necessary to ensure that communities and the natural environment have sufficient water during times of drought.”

The second strategy focuses on advanced planning to support ecosystems during periods of drought.

Jensen explained that fish and wildlife populations are often hit “really hard by drought.

Their populations don’t have time to recover between droughts.”

To address ecosystem needs, Jensen explained that the commission proposed “that we better understand the amount of water that’s needed by ecosystems so that we can kind of understand what’s necessary to sustain species when water scarcity increases, and then that we go through some processes to figure out how to prioritize scarce water supplies.”

To protect ecosystems, fish and wildlife, the Water Commission called to set aside quantities of water to “sustain aquatic species during these drought periods,” Jensen said. To do this, the Water Commission is also calling for a modernization of water data.

“That’s an effort that’s underway at the State Water Resources Control Board to get better data so that we can know what water is available and how best to administer that available water during drought conditions,” Jensen said.

The third strategy notes that the state needs to “better position communities to prepare for and respond to drought emergencies,” highlighting, in particular, small, rural communities and native tribes.

“They are hit the hardest by drought,” Jensen said. “So, the actions that we’ve proposed include thinking about the emergency funding that the state provides already to communities during times of drought, and doing a bit of a better job of making it more nimble.”

It’s important to “think about climate disasters more broadly so we don’t have funding that’s only available for drought or only available for floods, but has a little bit more flexibility between the two,” Jensen continued.

The fourth strategy emphasizes the importance of “improved coordination, information and communication in drought and nondrought years.”

The draft paper emphasizes the need for an institutionalized and consistent drought

For the past 14 years, Foley has organized the coat drive in Costa Mesa, where she previously served as a councilmember and mayor.

Residents can donate new kids- and youth-sized coats to help children and teenagers stay warm this winter.

“I invite the public to join me in the holiday spirit and donate new coats and jackets to keep our kids warm this winter season,” Foley said in a media release.

“After hosting this coat drive for the last 14 years, we hope to break records this

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

The San Mateo Creek, which empties out into Trestles in San Clemente, flows more freely following a spate of heavy rainstorms in January 2023. Amid ongoing cycles of drought and flooding across California, the state’s Water Commission is seeking public input on a draft document about drought resilience strategies. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

response and to responsibly manage water during flood periods and wet years.

At a community level, Jensen explained that it’s also important to build drought resilience at the community level, which can look like diversifying the types of water supply available.

While California is considered out of drought right now, Jensen noted that drought conditions in the state are cyclical.

“Here in California, it’s going to come back … so there’s really a need for dedicated capacity to make sure that we are planning for drought,” Jensen said. “That we are responding to it, that we’re collecting data and taking a look at that data and understanding, maybe the drought emergency is over, but there’s still drought impacts that we need to respond to.”

In the past, Jensen said, California has treated drought as “these occasional emergencies, but it’s going to come back in California and when married with climate change, we’ve got this increasing intensity and water scarcity issue that we’re going to be facing.”

The California Water Commission received a presentation on the draft document on Nov. 15, when Commissioner Alexandre Makler highlighted the term “weather whiplash” as an apt description of the conditions Californians are facing.

“One of the takeaways … is what I’ll call the weather availability volatility,” Makler said. “I think that it really leads to this question of, if you’re dealing with volatility in any commodi-

ty or anything, it leads you to the question, do you have adequate storage?”

Commissioner Sandra Matsumoto noted that the Water Commission is responsible for making sure that the white paper on drought strategies is used, adding that she thinks “we need to think about, once the document’s finalized, how might it be used.”

“Maybe there are things that we can do to help make it practically useful and implementable so that some of the suggestions here actually become action items,” Matsumoto said.

Jensen noted that a key point that readers can take away from the draft paper is that “we’re all in this together.”

“Everybody can play a role, be it during drought times or outside of drought times, to help us manage water more thoughtfully and carefully, to better address and prepare for droughts, as well as to adapt to a changing climate,” Jensen said.

“The state’s doing a lot of great work already on this topic,” Jensen continued. “And there’s a continued need to collaborate across sectors to continue to advance and build on the good work that the state’s already doing to help improve our water management.”

After the public-comment period closes in mid-December, the final white paper on drought strategies will be presented during the state Water Commission’s meeting on Jan. 17.

Comments on the drought resilience strategies can be submitted to cwc@water.ca.gov.

year and collect the most donations yet to help as many Orange County families as possible, including nearly 200 identified kids in South County.”

Foley will accept donations at her offices in Santa Ana and Dana Point, as well as drop boxes throughout District 5.

The drop box locations in Dana Point include the Dana Point Women’s Club, located at 24642 San Juan Avenue, and the Orange County Sailing and Events Center at 34451 Ensenada Place.

In San Clemente, there will be a dona-

tion drop box at the Aquatics Center, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, and the San Clemente Library, 242 Avenida Del Mar. There will also be a donation box located at the San Juan Capistrano Library, 31495 El Camino Real, and the Boys & Girls Club of the Capistrano Valley at 1 Via Positiva, San Juan Capistrano.

Donations will be accepted through Dec. 18. For more information, reach out via email at katrina.foley@ocgov.com or by phone at 714.834.3550.

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sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 sanclementetimes.com

GUEST OPINION | Citizens’ Climate Education by Dr. Karl Reitz

HOW TO REACH US PUBLISHER Steve Strickbine DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Nadine Johnson • 480.898.5645 nadine@timeslocalmedia.com MANAGING EDITOR Shawn Raymundo • 949.388.7700, x7 sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com SPORTS Zach Cavanagh • 949.388.7700, x6 zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com ADVERTISING Lauralyn Loynes • 949.388.7700, x2 lloynes@picketfencemedia.com DISTRIBUTION Racks, Driveways, Subscriptions Inna Cazares • 949-229-2821 icazares@picketfencemedia.com

TIMES MEDIA GROUP EDITORIAL Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinki Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo City Reporter, SC Times C. Jayden Smith City Reporter, DP Times Breeana Greenberg Sports Editor Zach Cavanagh Columnists Tom Blake Megan Bianco, Jake Howard Special Projects Editor Andrea PapagianisCamacho Copy Editor Randy Youngman

W

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hat would you do with extra cash every month starting at $50 and climbing to over $200 in a few years?

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Letters to The Editor

tor of Laguna Beach Friendship Shelter.

You don’t need tickets. However, it is recommended to register for this free event at unitedtoendhomelessness.org/events and choose the Nov. 29 event in San Clemente.

Join us for this eye-opening event.

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Lauralyn Loynes (SC + DP) Advertising Sales Debra Wells (CD) ART + DESIGN Group Art Director Courtney Oldham GRAPHIC DESIGN Stephanie Torres Group Operations & Production Coordinator Inna Cazares Local Distribution Tim Trent PFM FOUNDER Norb Garrett

San Clemente Times, Vol. 18, Issue 33. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Times Media Group, 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 2023. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. San Clemente Times is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at San Clemente, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: San Clemente Times, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

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San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

OUTDOOR DINING SALLY WERK, San Clemente At the last City Council meeting when the council was discussing the extension of outdoor dining, one of the restaurant operators commented that people will always find parking. Such naivete.

When I try to find parking in the downtown area and can’t find it, I just drive on and go to the Outlets, where I have no problem finding parking and have a wonderful lunch. Some of these restaurants have no idea how much business they lose when there is no convenient parking available.

While I do support limited outdoor dining, a quarter of parking is lost due to outdoor dining, and enough of a problem for myself and many of my friends to go elsewhere for lunch and shopping.

Wake up, city and downtown restaurants, it’s time to limit outdoor dining so small shops can survive.

HOMELESSNESS 101 COMES TO SAN CLEMENTE STUART ANDERSON, San Clemente When asked what concerns them most, a majority of people choose homelessness.

Yet, most of us don’t really understand the demographics, challenges, and possible solutions.

Homelessness 101, produced by United Way, is a great introductory course to help educate us about this issue. This is a free seminar, and it is being offered here in San Clemente on Nov. 29 at St. Andrews by the Sea, off Calle Frontera, beginning at 6 p.m.

Featured speakers are Michael Shepherd, senior manager of Community Strategies of United Way, and Dawn Price, executive direc-

UNENFORCED BEACH TRAIL RULES WOLF IRONSMIT, San Clemente On a recent Saturday, after several months, my wife and I returned to the Beach Trail.

Past cliff slides and being out of town kept us away.

Seniors, families with children and infants in strollers, people walking their dogs were all enjoying the trail. We parked at North Beach and walked all the way to the end of the pier and back.

We observed three disturbing issues: 1. E-bikes were ridden at high, hazardous speeds, by mostly adults. In violation of posted rules. With little or no warning to people on foot.

2. E-bikes and regular bikes were ridden in a weaving manner on the elevated section.

In violation of rules that mandate walking the bikes.

3. And, most puzzling, we didn’t once see enforcement of the rules. Law enforcement or private security personnel were notably absent.

When are our elected officials going to take this matter seriously? Could they take a break from promoting things like pickleball courts and dedicate some time to solve this public safety problem?

Or are they waiting for a serious accident to happen?

Unenforced laws only encourage scofflaws.

RESPONSE TO ENCAMPMENT ON SOUTH EL CAMINO REAL CAROL NORDMAN, San Clemente After reading a recent letter to the editor concerning the encampment on South El Camino Real, I am encouraged to add my

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voice.

Now, we have mail theft in the nearby neighborhood. My husband and I talked to about 30 neighbors. More than half have had mail theft—a number lost medications, one lost a passport, another a credit card. Piles of mail have been found in an alley, at the State Park and in the street. Most people believe the theft comes from the encampment.

Many reported this to the post office and to the sheriffs, with no results. The theft continues.

Two sheriff deputies told me they are understaffed. One deputy expressed great frustration about the encampment. She said that because of California state laws, police can’t do much.

I know I speak for many neighbors who have contacted multiple authorities without results and are increasingly upset.

Today, I saw seven tents and garbage right up to the curb—leaving no room to walk for those parking to surf at Trestles.

I hope this reaches someone who is able to help our community.

PICKLEBALL AT SAN GORGONIO ROBERT MASON, San Clemente As a voter and homeowner, I was absolutely astonished to read that three of our councilmembers, including Mayor Duncan, Councilmembers Cabral and Enmeier, went back on their original promise to close San Gorgonio to pickleball.

Going back on their original promise to the nearby homeowners who have to put up with that incessant pickleball noise is outrageous and beneath contempt. Elections cannot come soon enough.

Pickleball should have never gone into San Gorgonio, especially with residential neighborhoods adjacent to it.

Councilmembers need to follow common sense and not the loudest voices in the room.

Thank you, Councilmembers Knoblock and Loeffler, for having common sense. sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

GUEST OPINION | The Foley Report by Supervisor Katrina Foley

Transportation Updates, Commission Openings, Thanksgiving and Upcoming Community Events

O

n Thanksgiving, we reflect on life’s plenty and express our gratitude for those who uplift us. Serving the Fifth District as your county supervisor remains an opportunity for which I am thankful every day. Thank you for entrusting me with the job of supporting and uplifting the cities and neighborhoods we all love.

As we reflect on our gratitude, we must acknowledge our neighbors who struggle with food insecurity. For you and your loved ones, find below a list of local District 5 food banks and pantries: Dana Point: • St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church, 33926 Calle La Primavera, 949.496.1572 • Dana Point Senior Center Food Pantry, 34052 Del Obispo St., 949.496.4252 • San Felipe de Jesus Church Food Pantry, 26010 Domingo Ave., 949.493.8918 San Clemente:

• Family Assistance Ministries, 1030 Calle Negocio, 949.492.8477 San Juan Capistrano: • San Juan Capistrano Senior Site, 25925 Camino Del Avion, 949.443.6391 • Serra’s Food Pantry Mission Basilica San Juan Capistrano, 31611 El Camino Real, 949.234.1356 At an OCTA Regional Transportation Committee meeting, I received updates on the I-405 improvement project and the customer outreach that OCTA will conduct for the newly built toll lanes.

A customer service center in Costa Mesa will help constituents with questions on the new express lanes, and residents with existing FasTrak transponders will be able to use them for these new toll lanes. We expect the toll lanes to open by Dec. 1.

OCTA CEO Darrell Johnson and I also met on project funding updates, including funding for the LOSSAN Rail Corridor and to repair and fortify La Paz Road in Laguna Niguel after

recent seismic activity shut down multiple Committee.

I encourage you to participate in my 15th lanes. annual Holiday New Coats for Kids Drive.

Next month, I plan on bringing forward Through Dec. 18, drop off new coats in kids an e-bike ordinance for the county’s and youth sizes at my offices or at drop boxes unincorporated areas to the Board of across the district.

Supervisors. The ordinance Visit my website for a full list of would create safety locations: bit.ly/D5CoatDrive2023. requirements for owning and For more information, call riding electric bicycles that will 714.834.3550 or send an email to protect pedestrians, equestrians, katrina.foley@ocgov.com. bicyclists, and drivers from I also invite you to join us at the accidents involving e-bikes.

Orange County Board of Supervisors Finally, I encourage you to Open House on Dec. 12, from 1-3 p.m. utilize OCTA’s 511 service to Meet me and my team at our office help you navigate around in the County Administration North town this holiday season.

THE FOLEY REPORT Building, 400 W. Civic Center Drive, Call 511 for real-time traffic

BY SUPERVISOR Santa Ana, on the sixth floor. I hope incident information, roadwork KATRINA FOLEY to see you there. advisories, and bus and rail trip Finally, save the date for my final planning.

We are also looking for Fifth District residents Wellness Wednesdays Walk with OC Parks on interested in volunteering as an appointee Dec. 13 at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Our to a board or commission. There are several docent-led hike on Mary’s Trail toward Barbara public advisory boards at the county that need Lake begins at 9 a.m.

Subscribe to my weekly newsletter at a new representative for the Fifth District, including the Coto de Caza Planning Advisory d5.ocgov.com/newsletter and follow me on Committee; OC Cemetery District; and OC In- social media @SupervisorFoley for regular Home Supportive Services Advisory Committee. updates. Happy Thanksgiving!

Elected in 2022, Katrina Foley represents the If you are passionate about transportation, Fifth Supervisorial District on the Orange County there are also open positions with two Board of Supervisors. She was previously elected committees at OCTA: Citizens Advisory to serve the Second District from 2021-2022. SC Committee and Accessible Transit Advisory

Edward “Eddie” Tompkins Benz June 26, 1942 - October 29, 2023 Ed was raised in South Pasadena but a passion for the ocean drove him to make a beeline for the Beach Cities as soon as he graduated high school in 1960. From there, the adventures began. He was a long-time Sano Surf Club member and drove down to surf in his 1949 “Helm’s Bakery” panel truck, or his 1948 Ford Woody with friends and boards, all the while trying to dodge the Camp Pendelton Marine MPs to catch a wave at Church or Trestles. He managed a bar in Honolulu at the age of 20, sailed to Central America with friends in 1963, and drove a panel van down the Transpacific Highway from California to Panama. He also, built a VWpowered burro off-road race car equipped with offroad tires and Army tank driving lights, courtesy of Gordon Clark (Clark Foam), his “sponsor” and raced that car in the first Baja 1000 in 1967.

Ed was also a proud Navy SeaBee. While stationed in Port Hueneme, he honed his skills in building that would eventually be the foundation of his life’s work. From there, he became a draftsman and started his own construction company. Years later, and in partnership with his wife, Eva, Ed founded a telecommunications construction company in the early stages of the cell phone era and was responsible for designing and building cell tower infrastructures throughout Southern California. After retirement, he joined

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SA N C L E M E N T E

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L AG U N A H I L L S

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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the crew of the schooner Curlew in Dana Point Harbor and had many years of sailing and sharing his love of the ocean and all things nautical.

He met his wife, Eva, on a blind date and married her after a whirlwind romance of 2 months. They married in 1973 at the Dana Point Yacht Club and raised their family in Capo Beach. To those in the community that knew him, he was a fixture. Always excited to “talk story” with a joke or lend a hand to a neighbor. Whether it was helping take out trash bins, supporting their business ventures, or employing many of the Palisades locals, he was always ready to help. Family and community were his priority and he poured his heart into both.

Above all, Ed was a man of integrity. If you knew Ed, you knew he was on your side and could be trusted with anything. You had his unwavering support and encouragement. He left an indelible mark, and to say he will be missed by many is an understatement.

Ed passed away on October 29th surrounded by family and holding his wife’s hand in the house that he built after a short but hard-fought battle with cancer. He is survived by Eva, his wife of 50 years; 3 daughters, Michele, Monika, and Helga; 3 Son in-laws, Matthew Barker, Patrick O’Kane, and Danny Speros; 5 grandchildren, Dylan, Ian, Madison, Marlena, and Aviah; and 1 greatgranddaughter, Saylor.

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San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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RAFFLE DRAWING

sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Shop for a wide selection of fruits, vegetables and artisanal goods from organic growers along Avenida Del Mar. 949 361 8200. san-clemente.org.

Editor’s Pick

AFFORDABLE PET VACCINE CLINIC 4-5:30 p.m. The Feed Barn in Capistrano Beach offers low-cost vaccinations for all dogs and cats every month. All veterinary services are provided by Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc. The lowcost clinic offers vaccination packages, microchips, physical exams, prescription flea control, fecal exams and diagnostic testing on-site. The Feed Barn, 34192 Doheny Park Road, Capistrano Beach.

714.895.8600. vetcarepetclinic.com.

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

Photo: Breeana Greenberg

THURSDAY | NOV. 23: DANA POINT HARBOR THANKSGIVING DAY TURKEY TROT 7-11 a.m. Run the race before you stuff your face. The 46th annual Dana Point Turkey Trot, presented by the Dana Point Chamber of Commerce, will welcome nearly 10,000 participants to the Dana Point Harbor this Thanksgiving Day. Burn off those pre-Thanksgiving meal calories with a run/walk of a 5K, 10K, Combo 10K/5K or Kids’ 1-mile Gobble Wobble. A portion of each registration will be donated to nonprofit partners. Dana Point Harbor, 34571 Golden Lantern Street, Dana Point. turkeytrot.com.

THURSDAY | NOV. 23 TURKEY TROT ON THE RANCH 8-10:30 a.m. Rancho Mission Viejo’s 7th annual Turkey Trot on The Ranch features a 10K, 5K, and a Little Gobbler’s 1K that takes participants through the beautiful pathways and walkways of the community of Rancho Mission Viejo. All proceeds from the run will benefit The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, the entity responsible for education and conservation of the historic land of Rancho Mission Viejo. This run will happen, rain or shine. Spectators are welcome to position themselves in different areas along the course, but they must stay off the course route to avoid interfering with the race participants. The Pavilion, 2 Tierno Road, Rancho Mission Viejo.

949.625.6500. turkeytrotontheranchlife.com. ranchlife@rmvranchlife.com.

FRIDAY | NOV. 24 PHOTOS WITH SANTA Noon-6 p.m. Bring your children to the Outlets at San Clemente to take photos with Santa on various dates throughout the holiday season. Santa will be available for photos on Friday, Nov. 24; Saturday, Nov. 25; and Sunday, Nov. 26.

The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente.

949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.

CONCERT AT THE COACH HOUSE 8 p.m. Enjoy some rollicking sounds over dinner at this intimate and popular South Orange County venue. Rolling Stones tribute band Jumping Jack Flash will perform. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

SATURDAY | NOV. 25

BACK COUNTRY HIKE, ANCESTORS TRAIL 9-11 a.m. Join California State Parks Naturalist Heather Rice to experience a local state park. Meet at the trailhead at the end of Avenida La Pata by the dog park for a 4-mile walk. Baron Von Willard Memorial Dog Park, 301 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente. heather.rice@parks.ca.gov.

5 p.m. Bring your family to experience a 15-minute Snowy Nights Snow Show at Center Court. The show will take place at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays going forward this December. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 W. Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente.

949.535.2323. outletsatsanclemente.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER 6 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. Sega Genecide will perform. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point.

949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com.

WHALE AND MARINE LIFE TOUR, TIDE POOL HIKE AND SAIL ON THE ‘SPIRIT OF DANA POINT’ 10 a.m.-noon. Join the Ocean Institute for a 2½-hour adventure aboard the RV Sea Explorer, Ocean Institute’s 65-foot research vessel. Professional naturalists on board will introduce attendees to the lifestyles of ocean creatures that frequent the waters off Dana Point through hands-on activities. In the afternoon, join the Ocean Institute for a tide pool hike along the rocky Marine Conservation Area led by one of their expert naturalists. The hike is rated moderately difficult at a 1-1½-mile round trip.

Attendees should be prepared for rocky, uneven and slick terrain for the entire hike. Admission is $15 for those 3 and older. Set sail aboard the schooner Spirit of Dana Point and experience California from the perspective of an early tallship explorer. Join the crew to help raise sail, handle lines and steer the ship, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the majesty of sailing the seas aboard a tallship. Must be 4 years or older to sail. Tickets are $65.

The Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.496.2274. oceaninstitute.org.

SUNDAY | NOV. 26

SNOWY NIGHTS AT THE OUTLETS

SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

LIVE MUSIC AT H.H. COTTON’S 6 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular Downtown San Clemente bar and restaurant. Lovelies will perform. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.945.6616. hhcottons.com.

LIVE MUSIC AT IVA LEE’S 7:30 p.m. Live music is featured at this San Clemente lounge known for its entertainment. Family Style will perform.

Iva Lee’s Restaurant & Lounge, 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente.

949.361.8255. ivalees.com.

TURKEY HANGOVER PARTY AT HENNESSEY’S TAVERN 9 p.m. The ’80s dance band the Dirty Lowdown will perform at Hennessey’s Tavern. Hennessey’s Tavern, 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point. 949.488.0121. hennesseystavern.com.

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SUNSET WINE CRUISE IN THE DANA POINT HARBOR 5:30-7 p.m. Join Dana Wharf for a 90-minute evening cruise aboard its catamaran. The cruise features a wine host who explains all the wines that attendees will be sampling from The Organic Cellar. The catamaran also has a cash bar for those who would like to purchase additional beverages. Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. 888.224.0603. danawharf.com.

MONDAY | NOV. 27 COUNTRY NIGHT AT H.H. COTTON’S 5:30-6:45 p.m. This popular downtown restaurant offers a night full of country music and line dancing for all ages. Beginners can participate in this $10 Introduction to Line Dancing lesson with instructor Anne Leslie. H.H. Cotton’s, 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente.

949.945.6616. hhcottons.com.

TUESDAY | NOV. 28 TUESDAY AFTERNOON OPEN ACCESS ON CHIQUITA RIDGE 2-5 p.m. This is a strenuous trail with hills that follow the ridgeline between Sendero and Esencia. The free hike, for Rancho Mission Viejo residents only, is 2.2 miles (one way) and is recommended for those 10 years and older. Chiquita Ridge. thenaturereserve.org/events.

WEDNESDAY | NOV. 29 HOMELESSNESS 101 6-8 p.m. The San Clemente Homeless Collaborative presents an educational seminar on the challenges posed to the community by homelessness, as well as potential solutions, with speakers from the Friendship Shelter and Orange County United Way. Register at eventbrite.com. St. Andrew’s By-the-Sea United Methodist Church, 2001 Calle Frontera, San Clemente. sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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sanclementetimes.com

UNIQUE GIFTS & HOLIDAY MAGIC

THIS SEASON, ENJOY THE MAGIC OF A TRAIN RIDE! Gather with family and friends for a delightful, affordable journey without driving. Just for you, we’ve put together convenient day trip suggestions from LA to Oceanside with fun, adventure and great food for all. Enjoy, and happy holidays!

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Unique Gifts by 168 Artists Holiday Entertainment • Free Art Classes

Photos with Santa • And More!

November 17- December 17 Five 3-Day Weekends, 10am to 7pm

SAWDUSTARTFESTIVAL.ORG San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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sanclementetimes.com

The Holidays are right around the corner Get ahead on your shopping list!

MONDAY, NOV. 27 STOCKING STUFFERS FOR SENIORS 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Be a Santa for seniors this holiday season by participating in the City of Dana Point’s Stocking Stuffers for Seniors. Through Dec. 11, residents can stop by the Community Center, Monday through Friday, to visit the “Giving Tree,” which will feature tags with gift ideas for male or female Dana Point seniors. Those participating can bring the gift in a gift bag with the tag to the Recreation Division. City of Dana Point Recreation, 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point. danapoint.org.

THURSDAY, NOV. 30 SAN CLEMENTE’S 4TH ANNUAL GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST & DISPLAY 5 p.m. This communitywide holiday contest is open to all ages and has a variety of categories for participants to enter. Interested gingerbread builders and architects can enter into the following divisions: Individual Youth (ages 15 & under); Individual Adult (ages 16 & up); and Family/Group. Participants may only enter one gingerbread house for an Individual division and one entry for the Family/Group division. Entry into the contest is free, and pre-registration is required. The City of San Clemente will provide a 12-inch-by-12-inch square base for all contest participants.

You can pick up the square bases at the Community Center or Aquatics Center.

All materials used on the gingerbread houses/structure must be edible. All levels are encouraged. Completed gingerbread houses must be delivered to the Community Center on Thursday, Nov. 30, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Late drop-off on Friday, Dec. 1, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gingerbread houses will be on display at the Community Center and will be judged on Saturday, Dec. 2, during Santa’s Village by the Sea. Awards will be given to first, second and third place in each division. One overall “People’s Choice” winner will be awarded. Winners will be recognized through a press release and listed on the city’s website and social media pages. For more information, contact the Recreation Division at 949.361.8264 or 949.429.8797. san-clemente.org.

SATURDAY, DEC. 2 SANTA’S JOLLY TROLLEY & LA PLAZA TREE LIGHTING San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

- Gift Cards & Holiday Gift Sets 1:30-5:30 p.m. Santa and his elves from Dana Point’s Recreation Division will ride on his Jolly Trolley to make stops at Sunset Park, Dana Woods Park and Sea Canyon Park, where they’ll hand out pre-packaged treats for kids up to 12 years of age. Santa’s elves will also collect letters to Santa. The letters should include your mailing address, so Santa can return a special letter to you. At the city’s last stop, La Plaza Park, from 4:30-5:30 p.m., the annual community tree-lighting ceremony will be held with carolers, hot chocolate, and cookies.

The tree lighting will be held promptly at 5:15 p.m. La Plaza Park, 34111 La Plaza Street, Dana Point. danapoint.org.

are now available.

Your One Stop Shop For Unique & Fun Gifts This Holiday Season!

‘CAPISTRANO LIGHTS: MISSION IN LIGHTS’ OPENING NIGHT 3-8 p.m. Celebrate the holidays at Orange County’s only Mission. Join the Mission on select days from Dec. 2 through Dec. 30 for daytime admission and an evening of holiday programming and fun. “Capistrano Lights: Mission in Lights” returns with a tree lighting, visits with Santa, Dickens-era carolers, a full-scale nativity scene, light features including a new lighted halo grove, a new butterfly orchard, dancing swallows and more—all are included with any Capistrano Lights ticket, which also includes same-day admission to the Mission. The tradition also brings back Community Christmas Trees, Family Wreaths, and a harpist in the Serra Chapel. The Capistrano Lights audio tour will also be available throughout the entire month of December, so guests can enjoy hearing the Gospel and “The Night Before Christmas” reading while learning more about Capistrano Lights evening offerings.

Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. missionsjc.com.

220 Ave. Del Mar, San Clemente | Follow Us On IG: @MikiisOnDelMar | 949.503.3326

SAN JUAN CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 4 p.m. Join the City of San Juan Capistrano for its annual Tree Lighting Celebration at Historic Town Center Park. Festivities begin with pre-show entertainment, followed by a musical holiday production. The tree lighting will take place at 5:45 p.m., followed by a variety of holiday activities. Special event trolley services will be offered.

The service includes two trolleys on 20-minute frequencies servicing a

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sanclementetimes.com

continuous loop from Junipero Serra Road (JSerra Catholic High School North Campus northern terminus) to a trolley stop at Stonehill Drive and Del Obispo Street. Historic Town Center Park 31852 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano. sanjuancapistrano.org.

SANTA’S VILLAGE BY THE SEA 4-9 p.m. The City of San Clemente and the Downtown Business Association present Santa’s Village by the Sea! One holiday event that brings the Holly Jolly Hoopla and Puttin’ on the Glitz on Avenida Del Mar together for a night of music, games, cookie decorating, and snow to San Clemente— one big occasion for the entire family to enjoy. Those looking to play the games, eat cotton candy/popcorn, decorate a cookie (while supplies last) or take a ride down the snow hill can purchase wristbands at the Com-

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

munity Center front desk. At 5 p.m., the city will host the Tree Lighting ceremony on the Community Center lawn. For the rest of the evening, there will be carolers and street musicians and a Holiday Market, in addition to the restaurants and shops along Del Mar. Downtown San Clemente, `100 and 200 blocks of Avenida Del Mar. san-clemente.org.

TUESDAY, DEC. 5 SAN JUAN CITY COUNCIL HOLIDAY RECEPTION 4:30 p.m. Join the City of San Juan Capistrano at the Nydegger Building for cocoa and holiday cheer.

The reception will mark the last council meeting of the year and final meeting in the temporary Council Chambers location before moving into the newly constructed Council Chambers at the Community Center in January 2024.

Nydegger Building, 31421 La Matanza Street. sanjuancapistrano.org.

MONDAY, DEC. 4 PINES PARK TREE LIGHTING 4:30-5:30 p.m. Santa and his elves will arrive at Pines Park on his Jolly Trolley to hand out pre-packaged treats for children up to 12 years of age. The event will feature carolers, hot chocolate, cookies and the annual tree lighting at 5:15 p.m. Pines Park, 34941 Camino Capistrano, Dana Point. danapoint.org.

FRIDAY, DEC. 8

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Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10. This year’s parade theme is “Candyland,” with boaters vying for prizes from best overall theme, most original and more.

Locals and visitors alike can look forward to exciting lighting installations along with holiday-themed photo opportunities, visits with Santa and more.

To experience the Dana Point Harbor Boat Parade of Lights: Candy Land on board one of the harbor’s 90-minute holiday cruises, visit danawharf.com/cruises. Dana Point Harbor, 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. danapointharbor.com/event/ dana-point-harbor-48th-annual-boatparade/.

48TH ANNUAL BOAT PARADE OF LIGHTS

SATURDAY, DEC. 9

6:30 p.m. Join Dana Point Harbor for its 48th annual Boat Parade of Lights taking place Friday, Dec. 8, Saturday,

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bring your favorite furry friend to the beautiful Dana Point Har-

SANTA PAWS

sanclementetimes.com

bor on Saturday, Dec. 9, and Sunday, Dec. 10, and have his or her picture taken with Santa. The cost is $15 for a picture, and you’ll receive the photo immediately. Additional photos can be purchased for $10. Start a family tradition with these keepsake photos of your beloved pets. All proceeds benefit the homeless animals at the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter.

Photos will be taken in the Clock Courtyard directly in front of El Torito Restaurant.Please park in the main parking lot. Well-behaved dogs/pets welcome.

All dogs should be on leashes. Clock Courtyard. 34521 Golden Lantern, Dana Point. petprojectfoundation.org/ santa-paws-dpharbor/

From our team at

on Dec. 9, 16 and 17. Bring your own camera. For more information, contact the City of San Clemente’s Recreation Division at 949.361.8264. san-clemente.org.

SUNSETS WITH SANTA 3-5 p.m. Enjoy free visits with Santa on the San Clemente Municipal Pier with a beautiful sunset as your backdrop

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

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GETTING OUT

AT THE MOVIES:

‘The Holdovers’

BY MEGAN BIANCO

A

lexander Payne, director of The Holdovers, which is out this month, is 62 years old, and would have been only 9 the year his current film takes place in 1970.

But the feature successfully looks and feels so much like the kind of movies made during that time period, it’s clear the man did his homework on how stories and pictures from the era were produced.

From the old-timey film studio fanfares and opening credits to the pseudo-celluloid film grain to the snowy New England location, it seems as if we’re back in the early 1970s watching a Mike Nichols or Hal Ashby mid-budget dramedy.

The Holdovers reunites Payne with one of his favorite male leads, Paul Giamatti, this time as a no-nonsense curmudgeon history professor named Paul Hunham, at an allboys Catholic boarding school in the countryside of Massachusetts.

Paul is tricked into taking over respon-

sibilities for the “holdover” of students who are staying behind on campus during winter break. One of the five kids is Angus Tully (Dominic Sessa), whose mom informs him the day before he’s scheduled to leave that she and her new husband are going on their honeymoon for the holidays.

The cafeteria manager, Mary Lamb (Da’Vine Joy Randolph), is also sticking around, not long after her son and one of the school’s graduates was killed while serving in the Vietnam War. While classic film lovers will obviously see the “New Hollywood” influence on the direction and atmosphere of The Holdovers, there is still plenty of Payne’s recognizable tone and technique that we remember from his hits including Election (1999), Sideways (2004) and Nebraska (2013).

This, alongside David Hemingson’s screenplay, naturally balances the comic relief and serious moments in Holdovers.

Giamatti is great, as usual, and sends in one of the best lead performances of the

Photo: Courtesy of Miramax/Focus Features

year featuring his typical wit and sardonicism, while Randolph gives a softer, more reserved touch as the moderator between the professor and the troubled teen.

Newcomer Sessa is most impressive and holds a similar presence to Dustin Hoffman in Nichols’ The Graduate (1967) and Bud Cort in Ashby’s Harold & Maude (1971),

and he could easily jump into a full-time acting career if he wishes.

Along with a soundtrack that’s a mix of Christmas staples and popular 1960s-1970s acts including Badfinger, Shocking Blue, Paul Simon and Cat Stevens, The Holdovers marks that sweet spot for both nostalgia and wholesomeness this season. SC

AEP- It’s About Saving you Money Calling all existing Medicare Beneficiaries, are you looking to save some money on either your monthly premiums, your co-pays, or your prescription drug co-pays? Then the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the time for you to make a change to your current plan. All changes made during this time (10/15 – 12/7) go into effect 1/1/24.

The biggest way to save money is to see if a Medicare Advantage plan would work for you. If it does meet your needs, then you cancel your Medicare Supplement and Medicare Drug plan for 2024 because the Medicare Advantage plan gives you that type of coverage and financial protection from medical bills. You’re no longer paying a premium for Medicare Supplement or a Medicare RX plan if you decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans in Orange County typically have no or low premiums and are both HMO’s and PPO’s.

prescriptions changed since you enrolled in your current Medicare RX plan? If they’re expensive medications (in the $40-$100 range or higher when you refill them) then it’s time for a review.

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (also known as AEP) ends December 7th, if you’d like to schedule a no cost Medicare options review contact me soon, my calendar is already filling up!

I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently I represent 5 organizations which offer 36 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1 800 MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.

Regarding a “standalone” Medicare RX plan, some plans used to not have a name brand drug deductible and now they do. Have your

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

Page 16

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SC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Dating When a Spouse Has Alzheimer’s

B

newspaper titled, “Dating When ob, 87, a South Orange County resident, emailed a Spouse is Institutionalized with Alzheimer’s.” In that article, a me last week. He wrote, man named Ed said his wife, age “My wife, presently in ‘Memory 59, had Alzheimer’s and didn’t Care,’ has been my friend and know him anymore. He visited life partner for 53 years.

“I cared for her at home, as her three to four times a week.

ON LIFE AND LOVE He met a widow. They saw each well as I could, for five years AFTER 50 BY other often. Their relationship during her early-onset AlzheiTOM BLAKE mer’s Disease. Now, she is alwas platonic. The widow was concerned about what people who most non-verbal, on medication, knew her would think. Bob asked what he though lovely to see when I visit her.

“I have a question: Would a ‘friend’ rela- should say to her. I asked readers for their tionship, open and honest, with guidelines opinions. Here’s what three said: be viable given my circumstances? I am Jon wrote, “Considering that there really healthy with no limitations. I like live the- is no marriage anymore, and his spouse is ater, having dinner out twice a week, walk- apparently unable to comprehend what is ing, traveling, music, dancing and caring for going on, a relationship is within reason.”

Mary said, “There will always be some my lovely home.

“What do you think, Tom? Would a friend holier-than-thou, judgmental busybody relationship be acceptable?” who will make her life miserable with critI’ve been asked questions like Bob’s icism and condemnation. So, what? Go for many times in 29 years of writing columns. it!”

George stated, “Alzheimer’s is a vicious I prefer to get opinions from my readers vs. disease. The dementia associated with it is strictly giving my own opinion.

In May 2011, I wrote an article in this irreversible. A victim can linger for years.

Spouses are as ‘imprisoned’ as patients. If there is another person to whom a spouse can reach out, it’s not cheating or being unfaithful.”

I answered Ed, “You and your friend sound well-matched. I feel you should cherish each other. You have a right to be happy, as you have been loyal and wonderful and will continue to ensure your wife is well taken care of. And your friend also has the right to be happy.”

Those comments from 2011 can apply to Bob’s question today.

I asked Debbie Sirkin, a South Orange County psychotherapist, for her opinion about Bob’s question. Debbie said, “Bob’s situation can be a moral, ethical, and religious dilemma, and it is not one-size-fitsall.

“For better or worse, in sickness and in health” is not Biblical in nature, but rather from a pamphlet titled, The Book of Common Prayer, from 1569, written at a time when people’s life expectancy was maybe 30-35 years. Alzheimer’s has only been around a little over 100 years, so this is not

ADOPTABLE PET OF THE WEEK SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

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This adorable pair of Lion Head baby bunnies would make a wonderful addition to your family. These bonded sisters love a good cuddle and are curious little explorers. Please come in and visit this lovely pair today; they are ready for their new home.

If you are interested in adopting these Lion Head bunnies, please visit petprojectfoundation.org/adoptions/ 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

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Jeremy Conrad

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Property Manager, DRE# 01297404 949.542.8347 Stevec@conradrealestate.com San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

something anyone had to deal with until the last century.

“Similar to many things discussed in premarital therapy, Bob’s situation may be a new one I add to my list of questions to be discussed prior to having to deal with it. Given where we are today, with people living longer, I think this is a question that can/should be asked early in a marriage (or in premarital therapy).

“Then, when being faced with this dilemma, it is no longer a dilemma, as it has already been discussed prior to the anguish at a time when you need more support and less stress.”

So, there you are, Bob, enjoy a friend, while you can.

Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@san-

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares.

To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9.

Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium

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1- For 2023 sales in San Clemente, 492 homes have closed escrow with an average sales price of $1,724,000. The highest price sold was $9,250,000.

2- San Clemente inventory continues to be historically low in all price ranges with only 99 active homes on the market and 9 apartment building listings.

3- The average days on market in San Clemente remains consistently lower, with average days for a home to sell at 62 days.

Page 17

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

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON December 6, 2023 PUBLIC HEARINGS WILL BE HELD BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: Zoning Amendment for Temporary Outdoor Dining and Parklets Consideration of an extending “Parklet Program” through July 1, 2026 in accordance with Assembly Bill 1217. The program is regulated under San Clemente Municipal Code Section 17.28.206, which establishes permitting and licensing guidelines for temporary outdoor dining facilities.

Staff recommends that the project be found Categorically Exempt from CEQA pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15321 (Class 21: Enforcement Actions by Regulatory Agencies).

These project files are on file at the City of San Clemente Community Development Department, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California, and are available for public inspection and comment by contacting the Community Development Department at (949) 361-6183. If you challenge these projects in court you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearings described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Notice is further given that said public hearing will be conducted by the City of San Clemente Planning Commission and held on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the San Clemente City Hall Council Chambers, 910 Calle Negocio, 2 nd Floor, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearing or to provide written communication to the Planning Commission to express their opinion for or against the request.

For further information, contact the Planning Division at (949) 361-6183.

Secretary to the San Clemente Planning Commission PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA, RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING: PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 1762 TO MODIFY THE DISTRICT ELECTIONS MAP. Information on this item is on file in the City Clerk’s office, located at 910 Calle Negocio, and is available for public inspection and comment by contacting Laura Campagnolo, City Clerk and (949) 361-8301 or campagnolol@san-clemente.org. The proposed amended map is also available on the City’s website at www.san-clemente.org/districtelections. If you challenge this item 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.

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

To allow staff adequate time to confirm software compatibility, individuals wishing to utilize electronic visual aids to supplement their oral presentations at the meeting, must submit the electronic files to the City Clerk by no later than 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Only compatible electronic formats will be permitted to be used on City audio/visual computer equipment. Staff makes no guarantee that such material will be compatible, but will use its best efforts to accommodate the request.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that said Public Hearing will be held at the meeting of the City Council on December 5, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 910 Calle Negocio, 2 nd Floor, San Clemente. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearing, or provide written communication via email to districtelections@san-clemente. org, to the City Council to express their opinions related to the content of the proposed map and ordinance.

JOHN GEORGE LOSAK III Proposed Name JAY LOSAK THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 12/27/2023 Time: 8:30 am Dept: D100 The

LAURA CAMPAGNOLO City Clerk and Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council PUBLIC NOTICE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 23 FL001051 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Daniel Park and Joy Park on behalf of Haram Park, a minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name HARAM PARK Proposed Name SHINE PARK THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing Date: 02/01/2024 Time: 8:30 am Dept: L74 The address of the court is: Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA 92868-3205.

Other: REMOTE (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the courts website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.)

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: 11/06/2023 JUDGE JULIE A. PALAFOX, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times November 16, 23, 30, December 7, 2023 PUBLIC NOTICE ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 30-2023-01349996-CU-PT-CJC TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner JOHN GEORGE LOSAK III filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name

Page 18

address of the court is: Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. Other: REMOTE HEARING (To appear remotely, check in advance of the hearing for information about how to do so on the courts website, go to www.courts.ca.gov/find-my-court.htm.)

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: 11/7/2023 JUDGE LAYNE H. MELZER, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times November 16, 23, 30, December 7, 2023

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Page 19

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SC LIVING

GUEST OPINION | Historical Happenings by Christine Lampert

The Cottage at San Clemente State Park O

n the bluffs overlookused mules and carts to ing the Pacific Ocean, haul the materials from the within San Clemente destroyed mansion to the State Park, there is a historstate park. ic Spanish cottage that is The original mansion used for events and wedwas built by Thomas Murdings, and it is only there phine, who was also one of because of the Long Beach the three founders of San earthquake of 1933.

Clemente. He became the San Clemente State Park, first mayor, serving from HISTORICAL at the south end of town, HAPPENINGS BY 1928 to 1934.

CHRISTINE LAMPERT was established in the Today, if you drive by 1930s during The Great the location of the original Depression. The park and mansion on Calle de los Alamos, you campground sit along a mile of ocean- will see the porch, stairs and two pilfront that was originally planned to be lars sitting on top of the cliff , b ut t he developed as part of the town. land drops off beyond the porch down Hamilton Cotton, one of the three to the beach below. founders of San Clemente, owned 110 There is a carriage house that did acres, which included the future state not fall down the cliff , a nd t oday i t park. Cotton’s house was built at the serves as a home to the residents. very south end of town, on what is The portions of the mansion that now called Cotton’s Point. were rescued from the ruins were reHis house is the “Casa Pacifica,” constructed into the cottage that is which was the Western White House used for weddings, lectures and events when President Richard Nixon owned in the state park today. it. Nixon lived there until 1976. Cotton’s The cottage was used as a caretakplans of developing the land came to er’s house from 1934 to 1994. When an end with the economic crash of it needed major remodeling, a grant 1928. was awarded in 1999 to completely The Great Depression changed the reconstruct the cottage in the original future of the land, and it became a “Ole Hanson” Spanish Colonial Revivstate park instead. The Civilian Con- al style of San Clemente. A courtyard servation Corps was started during was added, and the event center was the Depression to provide jobs for the established. The cottage was reopened many unemployed Americans to help to visitors in 2001. build infrastructure, including roads, Christine Lampert is a member of the bridges, dams and parks. These work- San Clemente Historical Soåciety, as well ers built the trails and walls in the as the American Institute of Architects park in the early 1930s.

(AIA,) and has designed many projects in A huge earthquake in 1933 gave the San Clemente and in California. She has Civilian Conservation Corps an oppor- been a professor of architecture at USC, tunity to build a caretaker’s cottage in OCC and SCAD Hong Kong. She and her the new state park. This cottage was family have lived in San Clemente for once a part of a mansion on the cliffs more than 46 years. SC of San Clemente, a mile north in the PLEASE NOTE: In an eff ort to provide our readers with a wide southwest part of town. variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinThe mansion fell over the cliff a few Guest ions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are days after the 1933 Long Beach earth- entirely those of the columnist alone and do not refl ect those of SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond quake. Portions of it were salvaged the to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes. and rebuilt within the state park. They com.

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

Page 20

Publishes December 21 & December 22

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Reserve your ad space by December 7 To advertise contact Lauralyn Loynes lloynes@picketfenceemedia.com sanclementetimes.com

SC SPORTS

RUN IT BACK

SCHS boys cross country wins back-to-back CIF-SS championships

BY ZACH CAVANAGH

O

nce you win your first CIF-SS championship, how else are you supposed to follow up the next season? Winning your second CIF-SS championship seems like the place to start.

San Clemente’s boys cross country team placed three runners in the top 10 and bested all of their team time marks from a season ago to win back-to-back CIF-SS Division 1 championships on Saturday, Nov. 18, at Mt. San Antonio College.

The Tritons now advance to the CIF State Championships this Saturday, Nov. 25, at Woodward Park in Fresno. It’s San Clemente’s third consecutive run at the state meet after a 32-year gap prior to that. San Clemente finished second at the state meet last season and fourth in 2021.

Last season, San Clemente placed two runners in the top 10 and four in the top 25 to win its first CIF-SS Division 1 championship with a 22-point margin over runner-up Great Oak of Temecula and 76-point margin over third-place Trabuco Hills.

On Saturday, the Tritons placed three runners in the top 10 and all five scoring runners in the top 25 to capture their second CIF-SS title with a 24-point margin over runner-up Great Oak and a 41-point margin over thirdplace Trabuco Hills.

Last season’s race and this season’s race were run on different course layouts at Mt. SAC due to preparations for rain that never came on Saturday. With the race being run on a mostly flat asphalt and track course instead of Mt. SAC’s famous switchbacks and hills, the Tritons posted improvements in each time metric on the 3-mile course.

San Clemente posted the second-best team time across all divisions on Saturday with a five-second improvement over last season, as well as better average runner times (14:31 versus 15:27), average mile times (4:51 over 5:09) and five-man gap time (0:34 compared to 0:51).

Senior Colorado State-bound pacesetter Brett Ephraim led the San Clemente pack again with a third-place finish, coming in at 14:10. Seniors Taj Clark (14:26) and Kai Olsen (14:29) finished in ninth and 10th, respectively.

San Clemente boys cross country captured its second consecutive CIF-SS championship in the Division 1 Final on Saturday, Nov. 18, at Mt. San Antonio College. The Tritons won their first CIF-SS title last season and now qualified for their third straight CIF State Championships. Photo Courtesy of San Clemente High School Athletics.

San Clemente placed its first three runners before second-place Great Oak scored its first runner of the day in 14th place.

Senior Pierce Clark crossed the line in 21st place at 14:39, and sophomore Dalin Harrington rounded out the San Clemente scoring in 25th place at 14:44.

Outside of the scoring runners, senior Isaac Gould finished in 80th place at 15:24, and freshman Yohan Anderson (15:43) finished in 97th place.

The top seven teams in each division advanced to the CIF State Championships, with San Clemente being joined by Great Oak, Trabuco Hills, Mira Costa, Beckman, King and Crescenta Valley in representing the Southern Section in Division 1.

On the girls side of Division 1, San Clemente finished in 10th and just 34 points out of state qualification.

Senior Lyza Yetter finished 25th overall to lead the Tritons with a time of 17:37. Freshmen Sedona Sweginnis (17:53) and Addison Carey (18:25) both placed in the top 50 for San Clemente at 31st and 49th, respectively.

Freshman Taylor Ball came across in 75th at 18:52, and sophomore Kat Piantka finished up the San Clemente scoring in 88th place at 19:15. Junior Ashlyn Caldwell ran in 92nd at 19:17, and sophomore Caiya McAlister finished in 97th at 19:33 to complete the day for the Tritons.

It was a banner day for South Orange County cross country, as four other area programs also captured CIF-SS championships in addition to San Clemente’s boys title. Seven total area programs will compete in the CIF State Championships this Saturday.

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29 2023

On the public schools front, Dana Hills pulled double repeat titles in Division 3, as the Dolphins boys and girls both won back-toback CIF-SS titles.

Dana Hills’ boys posted the best overall team time of the day, just 13 seconds faster than San Clemente’s team time. The Dolphins also had slightly better average runner times and average mile times, but the Tritons ran a better five-man gap.

Dana Hills junior Evan Noonan ran the best time across all divisions with a 3-mile run of 13:56 to defend his CIF-SS title from last season. The Dolphins boys placed three runners in the top five, four in the top 10 and all five scoring runners in the top 15 of Division 3.

University of New Mexico-bound senior Jayden Hernandez finished second at 14:12, and senior Garrett Woodruff finished fifth at 14:34. Sophomore Oliver Hunter came in 10th at 14:43, and senior Logan Harris was the fifth scoring runner in 14th at 14:54.

The Dana Hills girls team saw the return of its top runner, junior Annie Ivarsson, to a second-place finish (17:15), with senior Quinci Lott also finishing in the top 10 in seventh (17:24).

Senior Cooper Murphy finished 25th at 18:12, freshman Marlo Leigh Harris came in 30th at 18:20, and senior Tessa Anderson was the fifth scoring runner in 36th at 18:36.

In Division 4, JSerra’s girls team put up yet another dominant chapter in their recent run of success for their third consecutive CIFSS championship. The Lions placed three in the top five and four in the top seven. JSerra scored 31 points to far outpace second-place Oaks Christian with 79 points.

Page 21

Junior Sophie Polay (16:35) and sophomores Kaylah Tasser (16:38) and Summer Wilson (16:50) finished in third, fourth and fifth, respectively, to lead JSerra. Junior Brynn Garcia (17:12) came in seventh, and freshman Reese Holley (17:44) finished 12th to round out the scoring. Sophomore Chloe Elbaz (17:45) was right behind Holley in 13th.

As a team, the Lions ran the second-fastest overall time.

JSerra’s girls will also be looking to win their third consecutive CIF State Championship on Saturday in Fresno.

JSerra’s boys finished second in Division 4 with two runners in the top 10. Senior Saul Orozco (14:27) finished fifth, and junior Bradley Arrey (14:47) finished 10th.

Three sophomores rounded out the scoring five for the Lions boys, with Luke Friedl (15:20) in 28th, Jack Burnett (15:33) in 40th and Alden Morales (15:38) in 42nd.

In Division 5, St. Margaret’s girls team won a tight battle for its third CIF-SS title in five seasons. The Tartans held onto an early lead built on two runners in the top 10 and three in the top 15 to beat second-place Thacher by 11 points.

Sophomore Joyce Li was just off championship pace in second at 17:58, and junior Sarah Bendzick came in sixth at 18:24. Junior Coco Johnson finished in 14th at 19:18. Sophomore Catherine Chou came in 43rd at 20:31, and freshman Catherine Pappas rounded out the scoring five in 47th at 20:36.

St. Margarets’ boys finished sixth in Division 5 to continue a seven-year streak of state qualification for both the Tartans boys and girls cross country teams. SC sanclementetimes.com

SC SURF

A SURF SEASON OF THANKS

From the breaks we surf to the boards we ride, there’s no better place to be a surfer than right here

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

T

hanksgiving is here. That’s radical.

Time flies when you’re having fun, I suppose.

What a year in surf we’ve had in our local waters, and as you sit back and wait for the turkey to come out of the oven and the post-feast nap to consume you, here’s some optimism and surf stoke to launch you into the holiday season.

If you live and surf in San Clemente, Dana Point or surrounding areas, you have much to be thankful for.

We have a healthy, relatively clean marine environment with a myriad of world-class surf breaks right here in our own backyard—from Lower Trestles, where world champions are crowned every year, to the playful lines at Doheny, where seemingly every local kid learned to stand up.

Salt Creek has its days, and there’s nothing better than a long, sunny day at San Onofre. We really are lucky.

Of course, this doesn’t mean there aren’t issues. Coastal erosion from Beach Road south through San Onofre Bluffs is a real and looming threat. The wave at Cotton’s Point is already feeling the effects, with backwash coming off the armoring rocks and reverberating back into the lineup.

Waves at Calafia and Riviera are a shadow of their former selves, if they even break at all. As we look to 2024, more surfers are going to need to get involved here to help save our beaches.

But that’s not what this column is about this week. This week is all about saying thanks, and like I said, there’s a lot to be thankful for.

I’m always in awe of just how many amazing surfboard shapers and builders there are in this area. From the timeless work of the Hobie Surfboards team, to what Matt Biolos and the folks at Lost are doing making boards for the world’s best surfers—just those two businesses alone are impressive.

But it goes so much deeper than that.

There’s Timmy Patterson, whose boards are somehow always magic.

There’s saintly Hamish Graham, whose

San Clemente Times November 23 - November 29, 2023

channel bottoms are world-class—and that’s just in the Surf Ghetto. There are countless other board builders doing it on a smaller scale or just having fun in their garage. For those with a surfboard fetish like me, it’s hard to imagine a more fertile ground to live.

And the same goes with all our environmental stewards and protectors; we have so many people fighting the good fight. I grew up in the ’80s as the Surfrider Foundation was just coming into being. Its work and impact loomed large in my sense of what being a responsible surfer meant. And now, 30-something years later, its headquarters are just a couple miles from my house.

We have organizations such as Surfers Healing that use surfing as a means for working with autistic youth. We have a working farm such as The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano that’s reconnecting people to the land and their food. There are First Nation peoples rekindling those same connections.

Big or small, there are so many or-

San Clemente’s Crosby Colapinto will join his brother on the WSL Championship Tour in 2024, as a handful of local surfers qualified to compete on the biggest stage in pro surfing. Photo: Courtesy of Mark Harris/World Surf League

ganizations and groups to get involved in if you’re keen on making the world a better place. As the old saying goes: think globally, act locally.

All of this, every surfer, every business, every beach cleanup or movie screening, every act of stoke and aloha, it all adds up to one amazing surf community. We’re truly fortunate to have such special people around us and such a special place to call home.

And, finally, my challenge to everyone this holiday season: give a wave. Every session you have over the next month,

give one wave to someone. That’s it, just one, single wave. It doesn’t cost a thing, and it will help bring a little joy to the world.

Jake Howard is a 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 several publications, including Picket Fence Media, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation.

GROM OF THE WEEK

STELLA EUDALY

BY JAKE HOWARD

With style and grace well beyond her years, 10-year-old Stella Eudaly is going places. Fresh off a win at the recent San Onofre Surf Club contest, Stella just inked a deal with Ryan Engle and the crew at Nation Surfboards.

Of course, Stella’s flurry of success doesn’t necessarily come as a huge surprise, as surfing is in her DNA. The granddaughter of the founder of the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association and The Coalition of Surfing Clubs, she’s been around the longboard scene her whole life.

Stella’s passion for surfing runs deep.

When asked what she loves about it most, she says, smiling, “The way it makes me feel.”

When it comes to her favorite surfers, she doesn’t have to look far, as she points to her family. Days at the beach, surf trips down the Baja peninsula, Stella’s as roots as it gets.

A fifth-grader at Las Palmas, she’s not just talented in the water, but her linguistic skills are sure to take her places, as she now speaks three different languages. And when she’s not chasing waves or studying, you may find Stella playing beach volleyball or soccer or reading a good book.

If you have a candidate for Grom of the Week, we want to know. Send an email to jakehoward1@gmail.com.SC

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Stella Eudaly. Photo: Courtesy of Chuck Patterson

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