December 29, 2022

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TOP NEWS SAN CLEMENTE SHOULD KNOW THIS WEEK

Weekend Trolley Service to Operate from January to March

BY C. JAYDEN SMITH

Weekend trolley service is returning to San Clemente from January to March 2023, per a unanimous vote from the San Clemente City Council at its meeting on Dec. 20.

Operating the trolley on weekends for the next three months is estimated to cost $93,230, which also covers service on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 16) and Presidents’ Day (Feb. 20) holidays.

As part of the council’s vote, it also

directed staff to come back at a future meeting to present options for pilot routes, potentially adding services to other areas around town. The two current routes largely cover the downtown, Pier Bowl and North Beach corridors.

Some potential routes suggested on Dec. 20 include service that would travel up and down Avenida Pico, and one that would connect southern San Clemente to downtown.

“We’ve heard a number of community members interested in different locations even as you’ve heard tonight, referencing hotels in south San Clemente,” Economic Development Officer Jonathan Lightfoot said of why staff didn’t recommend a specific pilot route.

Lightfoot added that officials associated with San Clemente State Beach expressed their own interest in seeing a

line connect to the beach area.

When Councilmember Mark Enmeier asked whether low rider counts during the slower winter months would reflect negatively in future discussions, Lightfoot shared his opinion that city-tracked data showing seasonal variations in trolley ridership could help contextualize staff’s projection of monthly services.

Mayor Chris Duncan also questioned whether the two trolleys had to be used on the same pilot or could be split into separate routes.

The negative effect on headways, or the time interval between two vehicles traveling in the same direction on the same route, was a reason to keep the trolleys on one route, according to Lightfoot.

“I think our riders have gotten accustomed to that approximately 15-minute headway,” Lightfoot said.

Councilmember Victor Cabral expressed his concerns over how the winter trolley extension was brought to council, saying he didn’t favor addressing issues in a piecemeal manner. He spoke about how the trolley’s initial

service during the summer months was lengthened to the holiday season before the latest proposal was presented.

In response, Lightfoot explained that trolley operations had been immensely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Orange County Transportation Authority, which funds most of the trolley program through a Measure M2 (Project V) grant, allowed monies that were unused because of a service cancellation in 2020 and other periods of nonoperation to be carried over into the future.

Continued outdoor dining that limited downtown parking incentivized the council to keep the trolleys going, leading up to the most recent extension opportunity.

“I have also outlined (in the staff report) that carryover is not available in years moving forward,” said Lightfoot.

“The third recommendation is also an ask of the council to provide direction of what you would like to see future operations look like.”

The council also directed staff to pursue a scope change request through OCTA’s semiannual review process to seek approval for any desired changes to the trolley’s season schedule, as OCTA has not reviewed any expanded service beyond 2023, according to the report.

Mayor Pro Tem Steve Knoblock favored a route through the city’s southern section, as he described the experience of visitors to the area and Trestles Beach.

“They kind of scratch their heads and say, ‘Where’s the wonder? I heard this was a wonderful place,’ ” Knoblock said. “We need to do more in that part of town.”

Enmeier—a freshman councilmember along with Cabral—added that “every single person” he spoke to throughout his campaign was excited about the potential for increased transportation within San Clemente, and he also said it could be a method to collect more revenue.

Duncan said he had heard the same sentiment, but joked, to Cabral’s concerns, that the residents weren’t responsible for budgeting.

The $93,320 used for the appropriation comes entirely from the General Fund with no reimbursement from OCTA, Lightfoot said in response to Duncan’s question about funding, but is paid for in part by fees the city collects from restaurants participating in the outdoor dining program.

“The city has received, so far, about $46,000 from the first installment of outdoor dining (fees),” said Lightfoot. “We will be sending out the second round—that’s invoices for $50,000—this week, due in January.”

There will also be two additional rounds, to total around $150,000 in revenue next year, according to the city.

Midterm Election Shows County’s Shifting Political Landscape

BY BREEANA GREENBERG

Orange County’s political parties are in a period of change, explains Jodi Balma, political science department co-coordinator and professor at Fullerton College.

The 2022 Midterm Election demonstrated just how purple the county is, Balma says, noting that Republicans lost majority control of the Orange County Board of Supervisors for the first time in decades.

Last year’s redistricting throughout the state also brought about some political changes that, as Balma explains, made it more difficult to predict the outcome of many races going into the Nov. 8 election.

“It’s always hard to adjust to the new districts, and it’s hard to know what the outcome will be,” Balma says. “Now, we have this as our baseline for the next 10 years to see how the demographics change and how the party shift changes; that just changes organically with the demographics.”

California voters in the midterms saw redrawn district lines following the 2020 census. The redistricting split State Senate District 36—previously State Sen. Patricia Bates’ district—into two new districts, with the 36th covering several coastal cities including Dana Point and San Clemente and the 38th representing San Juan Capistrano and Rancho Mission Viejo. Amid those changes, the local state and congressional races in South Orange County were close—within a 10% margin. However, the race for the 36th State Senate seat told a slightly different story. The Republican candidate won with a 13.8% lead despite the Democratic candidate carrying most votes in Los Angeles County’s stretch of the district.

And though the county itself has turned from red to purple in recent elections—meaning it’s roughly divided evenly between blue and red voters, with races potentially going in either direction—South Orange County showed that Republicans have maintained their stronghold in the area.

In the races where districts covered portions of Orange County and either San Diego or Los Angeles Counties, it was the GOP candidates who earned the most support from South OC voters.

For those Republicans running in the 49th Congressional and 38th State Senate races, however, those gains weren’t enough to overcome their Democratic opponents, who saw a majority of their votes come from North San Diego County.

In the race for the 38th State Senate

Though midterm elections tend to see a lower voter turnout compared to presidential elections, the 2022 General Election saw a relatively lower voter turnout in Orange County than in previous years. Photo: File

District, which covers cities in both Orange and San Diego Counties, a total of 106,820 votes were cast on the Orange County side of the line and 258,753 votes were cast in San Diego.

Republican Matt Gunderson saw most of the voters, 61,023, turn out for him in Orange County. But it was voters in San Diego County who carried Democrat Catherine Blakespear, Encinitas’ former mayor, to her victory, receiving 145,195 votes on that side of the 38th District.

In the 36th State Senate District, which represents cities in both Orange and Los Angeles Counties, a total of 323,998 and 21,604 votes were cast, respectively.

Republican Janet Nguyen, a tenured California lawmaker who served in both the State Senate and State Assembly, received most of the votes in Orange County with 57.71%. Democrat Kim Carr, a Huntington Beach councilmember, took home a majority of the votes in Los Angeles County with 55.95%.

Balma notes that incumbents did much better than newcomers, as they generally do, though she commented that this was even the case in which incumbents’ districts covered largely new areas of constituents.

“We certainly know that there’s an incumbent advantage, with name recognition, with fundraising,” Balma says. “It’s interesting to see that their incumbency also is an advantage even when most of the voters are new to that person.”

“Janet Nguyen, as an incumbent, has a big advantage. Kim Carr (is) relatively unknown outside of Huntington Beach, which is a big city, but the district is clearly much bigger,” Balma adds. “So, Janet Nguyen’s name recognition, not only from being a part of the senate but also Board of Supervisors, certainly helped.”

Looking at the race to represent Orange County’s Fifth Supervisorial District, which covers Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and part of Irvine, a total of 226,343 votes were cast.

Based on a review of the Orange County Registrar of Voters’ election data, the

majority of voters in Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Irvine, Laguna Beach and Laguna Woods supported incumbent Supervisor Katrina Foley. Bates, a former board supervisor and state senator, received support from a majority of voters in Dana Point, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Newport Beach, San Clemente and San Juan.

Though Foley won the seat, Balma notes that the county’s redistricting put Foley at a disadvantage in this year’s race.

“I think to her credit, she collaborated with many other local candidates,” Balma says, noting that Foley canvased with Irvine City Council candidate Kathleen Treseder and U.S. Rep. Katie Porter, who both won their respective races.

Both the Republican Party of Orange County and Democratic Party of Orange County are in a period of transition, Balma says, with the Republican Party losing control of the majority on the OC Board of Supervisors.

“To use a sports metaphor, there is a difference in playing offense and defense, and for so long, the Republican Party of Orange County was the dominant party in the majority, and that is shifting and transitioning,” Balma says.

“The Democratic Party is having to figure out how to be a majority party in a lot of these places,” Balma continues. “And it’s a purple county. By no means does one party dominate; there are pockets of blue that the Democrats are going to win easily and pockets of red that the Republicans are going to win.”

Balma adds that both parties are going to have to learn to be competitive across the county during this period of transition.

Neither the Democratic Party of Orange County nor the Republican Party of Orange County had responded to requests for comment as of press time.

As for the race for the 49th Congressional District, a total of 103,921 votes were cast on Orange County’s side and 187,814 were cast in San Diego County.

The 49th District includes the cities of Carlsbad, Dana Point, Encinitas, Laguna Niguel, Oceanside, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano and Vista, among others in South Orange County and North San Diego County.

Brian Maryott, a Republican and former San Juan Capistrano councilmember, received most of the votes in Orange County with 54.96%, while incumbent Rep. Mike Levin took home the majority of votes in San Diego County with 56.83%.

Levin and Maryott had faced each other for the seat in 2020, when Levin won the district with 53.1% of the overall vote. Levin won his bid for reelection this year with a slightly narrower margin, earning 52.6% of the overall vote.

Balma notes that Maryott’s name

COMMUNITY MEETINGS

SATURDAY, DEC. 31

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

TUESDAY, JAN. 3

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), will continue conducting its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference and in person/Zoom the first Tuesday of each month at The Noble Path Foundation. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com. Noble Path Foundation, 420 N El Camino Real, San Clemente.

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 4

VA Disabled Claims Clinic 2-4 p.m. The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 9934 will sponsor a Veterans Affairs Disability Claims Clinic at the Dana Point Community Center the first and third Wednesday of each month. Veterans can walk in and meet with a VFW Service Officer and receive information on how to file a claim for servicerelated medical issues. Dana Point Community Center, 34052 Del Obispo Street, Dana Point.

recognition with voters, having run previously, may have helped to narrow that gap.

“Maryott is a known candidate, and certainly did well in Orange County, although it wasn’t enough to carry the district,” Balma says. “So, I don’t know that it means he’s getting closer; I think that people who voted for Levin stayed home in this election.”

It was that voter fatigue, Balma says, that likely affected voter turnout this year.

Voter turnout in both Orange and San Diego Counties was similar, with 54.7% and 54.2% of eligible voters casting ballots in each respective county.

(Cont. on page 7)

Capo Unified Trustees Announce Termination of Superintendent’s Contract

BY COLLIN BREAUX

Days before Christmas, the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees announced that Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte’s contract would be terminated on Dec. 31.

Trustees voted on the matter during a special closed session meeting on Dec. 21. Board President Krista Castellanos did not give a reason for the termination when announcing the decision following the closed session.

Trustees Gila Jones, Lisa Davis and Judy Bullockus voted against ending Brulte’s employment with the district. Jones and Davis left the meeting after the closed session.

Brulte had been the superintendent since 2014.

In an email sent to CUSD families afterward, Castellanos said the board voted, 4-3, on the decision to terminate Brulte’s contract.

“It is important to emphasize that the action taken was not for cause, and

we wish the Superintendent the best in her future endeavors,” Castellanos said. “The District’s contract with the Superintendent, like most contracts with school district superintendents, contains provisions that allow either party to terminate the contract before it expires, without cause.”

“The contract has included a severance provision since 2014, and counsel for the District and for the Superintendent will be working on an agreement to implement that provision,” Castellanos continued.

Starting Jan. 1, Deputy Superintendent Clark Hampton will assume the role

of interim superintendent while CUSD engages in the recruitment and hiring process for the district’s next chief, Castellanos further said.

“We want to assure our students, employees, and families that this will not affect the extraordinary work of our teachers, classified staff, and administrators who provide an excellent instructional program every day. We will keep our CUSD community informed as we move through this process,” Castellanos said.

Board Vice President Michael Parham said he would not provide any additional information about the rationale behind the decision, because “personnel

matters are highly delicate.”

“I look forward to beginning the process to identify a permanent replacement, a process which will include public input and a thorough search to attract the best candidates from around the state,” he said.

Davis said she, Jones and Bullockus voted to keep Brulte on as superintendent.

“She is an excellent superintendent that has led CUSD with strength, integrity and grace,” Davis said. “She has gotten us out of the mess we were in before she came on board.”

Brulte was instrumental in the “safe and early reopening of CUSD schools,” a decision that “reduced the learning loss that all other districts are dealing with today,” Davis further said.

“She stood up for kids, kept CUSD schools open, not forced the vaccine but worked on choice, and protected our district from the influences of neighboring counties,” Davis added.

Trustee Amy Hanacek, who voted to end Brulte’s contract, had no additional information but, as a personal comment, said “it is fairly unique in K-12 (schools) to have a Superintendent serve as long as Kirsten Vital Brulte has and that I appreciate her service to Capistrano Unified School District.”

Brulte’s salary under her most recent contract, which was due to end on June 30, 2026, was $361,262.

In comparison to Orange County and San Diego County, Los Angeles County had a relatively low voter turnout rate at 43.65%.

Statewide, 50.8% of California’s registered voters turned out to vote in November’s election, according to the Secretary of State’s office.

This year’s turnout marked the third-lowest for the state in 20 years. The 2014 midterm race had the lowest voter turnout at 42.2%, and the 2002 midterm race had the second-lowest voter turnout at 50.57%.

Orange County experienced relatively lower voter turnout this year compared to previous elections over the same period. Voter turnout was only lower in the 2014, 2006 and 2002 Midterm Elections.

Balma says that the gubernatorial race in California was not a draw for voters to cast their ballots in this year’s election.

“Turnout in 2022 was lower than 2018,” Balma says. “Not necessarily lower with Republicans—Republicans really turn out to vote and Republicans have a higher voter turnout than Democrats tend to in Midterm Elections.”

According to the OC Registrar, 392,931 votes were cast by the county’s regis-

tered Republicans in November, 25,801 more than Democrats. About 228,220 of the total ballots cast came from registered American Independents, Green Party, Libertarians, Peace and Freedom Party and those who registered no-party preference.

Midterm Elections tend to see a lower voter turnout compared to Presidential Elections. In 2018, there was a 71% voter turnout, a 45% voter turnout in 2014, a 55.4 % turnout in 2010, a 50.5% turnout in 2006, and a 51% voter turnout in 2002—all midterms.

Balma says that while California is good at registering young adults to vote, the state has not been effective at engaging young people to vote.

“They are the largest voter bloc of registered voters; however, we haven’t done a good job informing and engaging them to actually vote,” Balma says. “They’re the lowest in terms of voter turnout.”

“So, that said, there’s a disconnect between getting them to vote, motor-voter, civic engagement, all of those sorts of things, and actually convincing them that their vote matters and there’s a difference between candidates,” Balma continues.

One of the interesting things in this year’s election, Balma notes, was how Orange County voters cast their ballots.

Of the 994,227 ballots cast in this year’s election in Orange County, 164,065 ballots were returned at a voting center and 830,162 were cast by mail.

“We’ve only had a couple of elections where everybody got a ballot in the mail,” Balma says. “That’s only been since March 2020 for Orange County, and, of course, the pandemic forced everybody in the state to get a ballot by mail in November 2020.”

Balma notes that since there have only been a handful of elections so far where all registered voters receive a vote-by-mail ballot, it’s hard to draw long-term conclusions.

“But what we seem to see is that Donald Trump, spending most of 2020 telling people not to vote by mail, was effective for Republicans. They vote in person,” Balma says. “And so those vote-center voters are still traditionally Republicans.”

It also rained on Election Day in Southern California, which Balma acknowledges may have been an impediment to some who planned to vote in person.

However, Balma adds that while Democrats tend to vote by mail, they also tend to procrastinate in voting.

“So, when they put the ballot in the mail on Election Day, it means it takes a week to count,” Balma says. “So, we no longer have an Election Day; we have a deadline to turn in a ballot.”

For those who are frustrated with how long it takes to count and certify the votes, Balma recommends that voters cast or mail their ballot early, noting that the verification process takes a while.

“It’s very good that it takes a long time, because it means that our verification process is protecting the integrity of the vote,” Balma says. “Orange County Registrar of Voters has an amazing system for ballot integrity, making sure that I didn’t already vote, making sure that all of that is secure, but it means that it takes a long time.”

On Dec. 2, the Orange County Registrar of Voters’ Bob Page certified the results from last month’s election, with the Orange County Board of Supervisors voting to receive and file the certified results on Dec. 6. The California Secretary of State certified results for statewide elections on Dec. 16.

The Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees met in a special closed session meeting on Dec. 21, when it voted, 4-3, to terminate Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte’s contract effective Dec. 31. Photo: File/Allison Jarrell

2022 YEAR IN REVIEW

ELECTIONS, FAREWELLS TO SAN CLEMENTE FIGURES DOMINATE HEADLINES

COMPILED BY C. JAYDEN SMITH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

The midterm elections and multiple openings on the San Clemente City Council represented a significant part of the 2022 news cycle in San Clemente.

Candidates seeking to improve the area received opportunities to detail their visions for a better future, as well as meet with constituents to discuss what was on the minds of the public.

Tragically, this year saw many wellknown faces around the city pass on or move into the next stage of life, whether through retirement or promotion.

Here is a look at the stories that impacted San Clemente the most.

JANUARY

The year began on a somber note, as friends and fellow San Clemente residents gathered to honor Los Angeles County firefighter Jonathan Flagler. Flagler died on Jan. 6 from complications related to fighting a fire in Rancho Palos Verdes.

A survey of 990 residents gave insight into the public consciousness regarding whether to establish a hospital in town again. More than 80% favored creating a new hospital, but Hospital Subcommittee members Mayor Gene James and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan were adamant in saying the concept was infeasible in part because of a lack of operating interest.

Jim Dahl, a retired firefighter and former San Clemente mayor who served on the City Council from 1996 to 2012, died on Jan. 12 at the age of 78. His peers had appointed him mayor four times, and Dahl was an active member of the San Clemente Exchange Club.

Local diners said goodbye to The Fuel Shack, a health food restaurant run by bubbly owner Yolanda Quam that closed after roughly three years.

To end the month, the City Council introduced a ban on electric bicycles near city beaches, the Beach Trail, and the Municipal Pier, as well as another ordinance aimed at reducing stolen shopping carts.

FEBRUARY

Disappointing news came when the U.S.

Army Corps of Engineers chose not to fund the San Clemente Shoreline Project in a round of funding opportunities, delaying the necessary $9 million share that the federal government would provide to put around 250,000 cubic units of sand on the city’s main beach from Linda Lane to T-Street.

The family of Kurt Reinhold, the homeless 42-year-old Black man who was shot and killed by an Orange County Sheriff’s deputy in San Clemente in September 2020 during a jaywalking incident, did not receive the result they had desired.

Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer cleared Deputy Eduardo Duran of wrongdoing, and a letter detailing the investigation reported that the involved deputies had reason to believe their lives were in danger when Reinhold allegedly reached for an officer’s firearm during a physical struggle.

Local foundations PierPride and the San Clemente Sunrise Rotary helped illuminate an American flag at the end of the pier by partnering to install a light fixture.

MARCH

In a contested 3-2 decision, the City Council voted down a pay raise proposed by Mayor Gene James that would

have increased councilmembers’ monthly stipend from $400 to $880.

James and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan were chosen to comprise another subcommittee, this time focusing on addressing human trafficking. They joined forces with the Public Safety Committee and the i-5 Freedom Network to limit illicit activity in businesses such as massage parlors.

In an effort to localize South Orange County water resources, the South Coast Water District began meeting with councilmembers to discuss its Doheny Ocean Desalination Project and had a vocal supporter in Councilmember Steve Knoblock.

Restaurants downtown received an approval from the council to bring back parklets for outdoor dining, although with a few conditions that included an increased participation fee.

President Joe Biden’s signing of a $1.5 trillion appropriations bill delivered the long-awaited funding for the sand replenishment project.

The local community turned out to honor the life of Jim Dahl in a festive manner by donning Hawaiian shirts at his memorial service.

APRIL

San Clemente Times sat down with brothers-in-arms Don Brown and Larry

Rannals, who reunited in San Clemente decades after serving together with the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam in 1968.

Rookie brewers Shawn Haven and Roman Krecu combined to make noise in the Los Molinos Business District by opening the Los Molinos Beer Company.

At a community roundtable discussing health care options in town, the Hospital Subcommittee again declared that the city could not bring a hospital to fruition, in part because of a minimum $200 million startup cost.

Kurt Reinhold’s story continued in San Clemente when Reinhold’s family and groups such as the South Orange County Black Lives Matter held a demonstration and march, starting from outside the local hotel near where he was shot and ending at Historic City Hall in downtown.

MAY

During his State of the City speech, Mayor Gene James commented on the city’s commitment to bringing in outpatient health care options, its balanced fiscal budget and its efforts to pay down the remaining unfunded pension liability.

Resident Lois Lynn McNicoll pleaded guilty to entering the restricted U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021 riot in a deal with federal prosecutors that eliminated three other criminal counts. McNicoll was later sentenced to 24 months of probation, 80 hours of community service, and $500 in restitution, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Longtime San Clemente resident Ken Nielsen, a sea captain, ocean researcher and active figure around the city, died at 75 years old.

JUNE

San Clemente breweries Lost Winds Brewing Company, Pizza Port, and Delahunt Brewing all found success in the 2022 World Beer Cup, winning medals within a few of the 100-plus style categories.

The council approved initial steps to battle human trafficking that included directing staff to delegate one person to work with massage parlors in town and determine time to conduct two random inspections per year of each business the city wanted to monitor.

Dozens of people gather for a rally and march from Hotel Miramar to Historic City Hall in the memory of Kurt Reinhold on April 23. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

Councilmembers also voted to have staff produce summaries of campaign disclosure statements and revamp the city’s website to ease public access to information after a watchdog group graded San Clemente poorly on its campaign finance transparency.

After announcing her candidacy to challenge incumbent Congressman Mike Levin to represent California’s 49th District in the U.S. House of Representatives in December 2021, Fifth District Supervisor Lisa Bartlett totaled 10.5% of votes in the Primary Election. Levin (49.9%) and challenger Republican Brian Maryott (18.5%) would go on to have a local rematch that originated during the 2020 Presidential Election.

In his bid for the 74th State Assembly District, Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan gained 47.1% of votes in the Primary Election against incumbent Assemblymember Laurie Davies. The two would face off against each other in the November General Election.

Demonstrators gathered near Historic City Hall after the U.S. Supreme Court handed down its decision to overturn Roe v. Wade

JULY

The city announced its 2021 and 2022 honorees for the Wall of Recognition, which included artist Lisa Spinelli and volunteer Don Glasgow, as well as community figure Don Brown and longtime journalist Fred Swegles.

Following a three-year hiatus, the 45th San Clemente Ocean Festival brought a variety of thrilling competitions and fun back to the beach.

Tabay Atkins, a San Clemente native and yoga expert, opened his long-awaited venture of a vegan food truck in an attempt to provide a more appealing version of healthy food to locals.

The council declined to join the Clean Energy Alliance, a group of North San Diego County cities that provide an alternative, renewable energy option to the investor-owned utility San Diego Gas & Electric. Fears of another possible battle

with an overbearing Joint Powers Authority guided the councilmembers’ votes, save from Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan.

AUGUST

Residents had the opportunity to comment on the Orange County Transportation Authority’s proposed improvements to Interstate 5, one of which includes adding a high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lane in both directions from the Avenida Pico exit to the border with San Diego County.

The Public Safety Committee discussed the next phases of working to limit human trafficking in town, with ideas such as recognizing hotels and motels for complying with state law.

A special Saturday meeting was required for the council to strike a potential “pro-life” resolution proposed by Councilmember Steve Knoblock from a future agenda. A vocal contingent of community residents attended to lambast Knoblock for wanting the city to declare itself against abortion and having abortion clinics in town.

After nearly nine years working with the city and just over one as the city manager, Erik Sund left San Clemente to take the same post in Big Bear Lake.

The council also voted down another Knoblock resolution, this time being one that would increase public trust in elections by suggesting changes such as voter identification requirements to the California State Legislature.

SEPTEMBER

Community activist Courtney Smith died at 25 following complications from her lifelong condition of spinal muscular atrophy. Smith was the namesake of the playground Courtney’s Sandcastle.

St. Clement’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church was the site of a neighborhood gathering to seek improved safety measures following two violent incidents near Max Berg Park. The meeting concluded with enough interest to initiate a Neighborhood Watch group.

In the wake of Erik Sund’s departure as the city manager, the council appointed governmental veteran Sean Joyce to the position in an interim capacity.

The council and the Planning Commission met for a joint session to discuss MemorialCare’s proposal to build a 250unit senior housing project and medical office on the site of its former hospital at 654 Camino de los Mares.

At two public forums, candidates for three open spots on the council addressed questions that concerned public safety spending, homelessness, affordable housing and the business community. Councilmembers Laura Ferguson and Kathy Ward both declined to run for reelection.

The month ended with Amtrak and Metrolink announcing another suspension

of passenger services through the city after movement on the tracks in south San Clemente was detected. The move halted all commuter train access between Oceanside and South Orange County.

OCTOBER

The South Coast Water District received vocal support from the council, as the district prepared to present its desalination plant to the California Coastal Commission. The state agency would later vote to grant the district its necessary permits to get the project started.

Following the Planning Commission’s vote against recommending MemoricalCare’s mixed-use project for council approval, officials with the medical group nevertheless vowed to pursue the council’s consideration on its plans. The commission cited concerns over size and parking, among others.

City staff learned of the resignations of longtime employee and City Clerk Joanne Baade and City Treasurer Mark Taylor. The council decided to begin a recruitment process to seek replacements for the outgoing officials’ terms that were set to end in 2024.

Fred Swegles, a beloved local career newsman and a San Clemente Times columnist, community figure and lover of all things San Clemente, died at 74. Swegles had covered San Clemente and other nearby towns for more than 50 years.

NOVEMBER

Mayor Pro Tem Chris Duncan and Councilmembers Laura Ferguson and Steve Knoblock voted to approve MemorialCare’s $84 million mixed-use project in a controversial 3-2 decision. The project reserved 8% of units for very low-income renters, meeting state law standards for

affordable housing that allowed it to bypass city development rules such as building height.

City officials heard from residents about crime and homelessness during a town hall that discussed public safety.

OCTA began the emergency construction project to stabilize the tracks in south San Clemente.

The General Election saw incumbent Laurie Davies hold on to her 74th Assembly District seat by beating Duncan, and Mike Levin retain his spot representing the 49th Congressional District. As the top two vote-getters, Victor Cabral and Mark Enmeier won two of the vacant seats on the council, while Knoblock narrowly edged out Donna Vidrine to remain on the dais.

The city also swore in Laura Campagnolo as the new city clerk and Charlie Smith as the new city treasurer.

DECEMBER

Councilmember Kathy Ward spoke to SC Times about her time on the council that spanned eight years and two stints as mayor.

The new council appointed Chris Duncan to the position of mayor and Knoblock as mayor pro tem for 2023.

South OC Cars and Coffee, a weekly event at the Outlets at San Clemente, was included in the Outlets’ list of events permitted by the Planning Commission.

San Clemente Police Services Capt. Tony Benfield was promoted to OCSD’s commander of the Investigation Division, prompting the city to seek a new police chief.

The council formally approved the project agreement with the Army Corps of Engineers to carry out the San Clemente Shoreline Project. SC

Dozens of demonstrators gather on the corner of Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real on June 28 to protest the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade Photo: Breeana Greenberg

PUBLISHER’S LETTER | BY PICKET FENCE MEDIA FOUNDER NORB GARRETT

New Websites for Christmas!

In keeping with the holiday spirit, we’ve redesigned all of our websites to help make online reading more enjoyable and easier to navigate. All three of our newspaper sites have been updated: San Clemente Times (sanclementetimes.com), Dana Point Times (danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com).

They feature a bold new design, easyto-use navigation tools and one-click signups to our free Digital Editions of the newspapers.

We’ve also made it easier to access all of our special sections, including our award-winning annual “Best Of” people’s choice guides, so you can quickly access info on all of your local favorites.

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team for their help prioritizing the content.

Lastly, our sales and production teams, led by Lauralyn Loynes and Inna Cazares, for their help coordinating the ad design elements.

As you can see, a website redesign takes a team effort, and I’m super proud of how our team worked together to launch these new sites to help improve your engagement and interaction with the sites.

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GENERAL

NORB GARRETT OWNER & PUBLISHER

Redesigning websites is no small task, so I wanted to make sure to thank our amazing team for their hard work designing and launching the new sites. First and foremost, Art Director and Webmaster Jasmine Smith, who has been with us at PFM since we launched in 2005 and is an amazing designer and teammate. Jasmine worked closely with Derek Lee and Shari Yee, two great digital minds who support our web and digital efforts at Picket Fence Media.

Huge thanks, too, to Shawn Raymundo, Zach Cavanagh and our editorial

Make sure to bookmark the sites so you’ve got easy access to breaking news, event listings and much more. Let us know your thoughts by emailing me at ngarrett@picketfencemedia.com

Wishing you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season and Happy New Year! SC

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE FIFTH DISTRICT

I

t seems like only yesterday I took my seat on the Board of Supervisors, when, in fact, it was eight years ago in 2014.

How time flies—especially when you love what you do, and, with my hand on my heart, I can honestly say, I truly loved representing the residents of Orange County’s Fifth District for the past eight years.

As my term on the Board of Supervisors comes to an end, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation for granting me such an amazing opportunity. To my constituents, colleagues, friends and staff who have helped me effect positive change, I send a big heartfelt thank you.

I am so proud of all that we have accomplished as a community during my two terms. We made tremendous progress toward finding solutions to some of the county’s longstanding issues.

When I ran for the board, the Dana Point Harbor Revitalization project had

been 20 years in the making with little to no progress being made. One of my campaign promises was to move this project forward as quickly as possible.

health of our communities and supported our local economy.

MANAGER

Alyssa Garrett • 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@picketfencemedia.com

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EDITORIAL Managing Editor

Shawn Raymundo

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BARTLETT BULLETIN

BY LISA BARTLETT

Working with county staff and my board colleagues, I led the county’s efforts to enter into a P3 Partnership with Dana Point Harbor Partners to get the project rolling. Fast-forward to 2022, and work has begun to replace the old boat slips and docks in the marina, and construction on the commercial core is expected to begin in early 2023.

The health, safety and economic well-being of Orange County residents has always been one of my top priorities. I am proud to have advocated for and supported policies and programs that enhanced public safety, protected the

When our Sheriff’s Department and District Attorney requested additional resources to eliminate the threat of fentanyl in Orange County, my colleagues and I took swift action to ensure they had the necessary resources.

To help those experiencing suicidal thoughts and mental health challenges, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to spearhead the development of the county’s first regional mental health and wellness campus.

And when the COVID-19 global pandemic threatened the health of our residents and the destruction of our economy, I was so thankful to be in a position where we could quickly mobilize resources to protect our residents and support local businesses during these unprecedented times.

Keeping Orange County moving and reducing traffic congestion has always

(Cont. on page 12)

San Clemente Times, Vol. 17, Issue 52. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. San Clemente Times is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at San Clemente, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: San Clemente Times, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

GUEST OPINION | Bartlett Bulletin by Outgoing OC Board Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

No Beachside Chat This Week

In observance of the New Year’s holiday weekend, there will not be a Beachside Chat this Friday, Dec. 30. Beachside Chat, a spirited, town hall forum on community issues hosted by PFM Managing Editor Shawn Raymundo on Friday mornings, will resume on Jan. 6.

been one of my top priorities. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to champion efforts that would create a local solution to transportation needs and enhance mobility in South County.

Working with key stakeholders including residents, elected officials and county staff, we identified three key projects that would help improve mobility: the widening of Ortega Highway to relieve a traffic pinch point; the extension of Los Patrones Parkway—an untolled county arterial from Cow Camp Road to La Pata—and the addition of an HOV lane on the I-5 Freeway from Pico to the county line.

While much has been accomplished, many opportunities lie ahead for the next county administration. I will always

Letter to The Editor

BEACH EROSION JAY THOMAS, San Clemente

I agree with Hector Hernandez’s letter about beach erosion. Newport Beach-style jetties (also called groins) that jut out into the ocean and hold the sand are the way to go. Otherwise, the replenished sand gets washed away again (and again) with winter storms. Let’s get the Army Corp of Engineers working on that project.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or information written by the writers. Have something you’d like to say? Email your letter to sraymundo@picketfencemedia.com no later than 8 a.m. on Monday morning. Limit your letters to 350 words or less. Please send with your valid email, phone number and address for verification by staff. Your address and phone number will not be published.

look back on my time as a county supervisor with fond memories and a grateful heart. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime. Thank you!

Sending you best wishes for a Happy

Holiday season and a prosperous New Year. SC

Lisa Bartlett sits on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, representing the Fifth District. She was reelected in 2018.

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 List

What’s going on in and around town this week

Editor’s Pick

THURSDAY | 29

CAPISTRANO LIGHTS

4-6 p.m. The annual holiday program features festive lights, music and audio tours. There will also be Christmas trees, a nativity scene, carolers, photo opportunities and nightly tree lightings. Capistrano Lights will be open through Dec. 30. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.234.1300. capistranolights.com.

FRIDAY | 30

LIVE MUSIC AT STILLWATER

6 p.m. Live music is featured at this popular South Orange County venue. Eighties cover band 80s All Stars will perform. StillWater Spirits & Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. 949.661.6003. danapointstillwater.com.

SATURDAY | 31

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.

SATURDAY & SUNDAY | 31 & 1 THE ENGLISH BEAT LIVE AT THE COACH HOUSE

Showtimes vary. Alternative rock band The English Beat will perform for a pair of nights at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, playing out the end of 2022 and toasting to the New Year in 2023. Doors open at 6 p.m. for Saturday night’s show, with the band taking the stage at 8 p.m. Sunday’s show is scheduled to get started at 7 p.m., with the doors opening at 5 p.m. Admission is $75 for the Saturday show, $40 for Sunday. The Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 949.496.8930. thecoachhouse.com.

Face masks are not mandatory but are recommended. No cars in before 8:30 a.m. Cars should enter and leave slowly and quietly—no revving, speeding or burnouts. The Outlets at San Clemente, 101 West Avenida Vista Hermosa, San Clemente. southoccarsandcoffee.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DOLPHIN & WHALE SUNSET SAFARI

3:30-6 p.m. Ring in the New Year with Capt. Dave’s Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari on a special 2½hour dolphin and whale sunset safari aboard its newest catamaran, Hoku Nai’a, on New Year’s Eve. Toast to 2023 with a complimentary glass of champagne or sparkling cider. Capt. Dave’s, 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.488.2828. dolphinsafari.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER AT YSIDORA

5 p.m.-midnight. Ring in the new year with Ysidora. Join the restaurant at the Inn at Mission San Juan Capistrano for Spanish flavors and curated cocktails as guests await the clock striking midnight. Dinner will be served during regular hours, from 5-10 p.m. The Ysidora Bar will be open until midnight. Inn at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26907 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano. 949.503.5720. ysidora.com.

HIGH IN THE 80’S NEW YEAR’S EVE MEGA BASH & DANCE PARTY 8 p.m.-midnight. Party like it’s 1999 with High in the 80’s at BeachFire Bar & Grill

in Downtown San Clemente. The band will kick off with all the hits of the ’80s starting at 8 p.m. BeachFire Bar & Grill, 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.366.3232. beachfire.com.

NYE WITH TARYN DONATH TRIO 8 p.m.-midnight. Head to The Cellar in Downtown San Clemente to celebrate the New Year with Taryn Donath Trio, featuring Laura Chavez. The group will perform throughout the night, leading up to 2023. The Cellar will have gourmet dinner packages. Tables require a reservation, but the bar is open for walk-ins. The Cellar will have three seating areas and the opportunity to choose your exact seat. To do so, head to thecellarsite. com. The Cellar, 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente. 949.492.3663. events@thecellarsite.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY

8 p.m.-midnight. Iva Lee’s Restaurant will host a New Year’s Eve celebration with live music by Tightrope and a special three-course, prix-fixe menu. The cost is $55 per guest. Those looking to party at Iva Lee’s for NYE should call 949.361.2855 to make reservations. Iva Lee’s, 555 N. El Camino Real, Suite E, San Clemente. ivalees.com.

NEW YEAR’S FLOCKIN’ EVE AT STILLWATER

9 p.m. New Year’s Flockin’ Eve at the Stillwater will feature music, champagne toasts and food. Call 949.661.6003 to make a reservation. StillWater Spirits

& Sounds, 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point. danapointstillwater.com.

SUNDAY | 01

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.

MONDAY | 02

BRIDGE GAME

12:30 p.m. The South Orange County Bridge Club hosts bridge games, Monday through Saturday. The club is a nonprofit owned by the members and welcomes people to use their minds and develop new friendships. They also offer classes for bridge players of different levels. 31461 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite 205, San Juan Capistrano. galesenter@cox.net.

OPEN JAM

7-10 p.m. Play your own percussion, acoustic or electric instruments every Monday night at Knuckleheads. Amps are allowed, but drums are not. Knuckleheads, 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente. 949.492.2410. knuckleheadsmusic.com.

TUESDAY | 03

TRIVIA TUESDAY

6:30 p.m. Test your knowledge every Tuesday night. Teams of two to six people are welcome to join in for a chance to win prizes. Call beforehand to reserve a table. Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria, 31781 Camino Capistrano, Suite 201, San Juan Capistrano. 949.429.3599. selmaspizza.com.

WEDNESDAY | 04

SAN ONOFRE PARKS FOUNDATION

POP-UP SHOP

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

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Photo: Courtesy of Eugene Iglesias/The English Beat

Kringle

Bernice Ayer was the first Matriarch, serving from 1989-94. She was the town’s first schoolteacher. A local middle school is named after her.

The Divel Dynasty

The Divel family has lived in San Clemente almost from Day 1.

The Divel Mortuary (now Lesneski Mortuary) was one of the first businesses in town. It was the sixth building built here. Roy Divel founded the funeral home and ambulance service in 1927, when the town’s population was merely 300.

Town founder Ole Hanson demanded that it be built on the outskirts of town.

Various Divel family members have been community leaders for the past 90 years. Currently, Lois Divel is San Clemente’s Matriarch. Her nephew, Rick Divel, is town Patriarch.

The Matriarch and Patriarch are unpaid, largely ceremonial positions appointed to residents who have long records of community service.

The San Clemente Historical Society created the program with the approval of the City Council in 1989. The society selects the two candidates for the lifetime appointments, which are then formally approved by the City Council.

All of them so far have been longtime residents who have distinguished themselves in business and local nonprofits.

fishermen’s catch-of-the-day from the pier to their cars for a quarter.

Good boy Kringle is a bundle full of happy energy. A social pup, he loves meeting new people and just can’t wait for playtime. He is 1 year old and would likely make a wonderful jogging or hiking companion. Kringle is looking for a loving and active adopter who can continue with his training.

If you are interested in adopting Kringle, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. SC

HISTORICAL HAPPENINGS

BY TOM MARSHALL

Madge Johnson took over from 19942005. She and her husband owned a drapery and sign business and were well-known local activists. She was also a waitress in the day when Hollywood stars such as Clark Gable, Bette Davis and John Wayne stopped here for dinner when traveling to San Diego.

Lois Divel has served since 2005, by far the longest tenure among the honorees.

Along with her late son, Fred, Lois is a founding member of the Historical Society among many other organizations she has supported since arriving here in 1938.

“This beautiful town has been special since Day 1,” said Lois. “We need to ensure it stays that way.”

There have been four Patriarchs starting with Don Divel, 1989-2006. He moved to town in 1927 and became a lifeguard, then ran several local businesses, including his dad’s mortuary. Don was Lois Divel’s husband.

Bill Ayer Jr. served from 2006-2013. He and his brother owned a local engineering firm. Their father was San Clemente’s first city engineer.

Jack Lashbrook took over from 20132019. As a child, he was known as one of the legendary fish cart boys who hauled

Rick Divel, nephew of Lois, has been Patriarch since 2019. He owns Divel Insurance and is a former professional golfer on the PGA Tour. He is involved in numerous local charities and nonprofit organizations.

The Matriarch and Patriarch duties include events such as laying a wreath on Memorial Day at the Community Center.

“I am honored to serve,” Rick said recently. He notes that San Clemente is a unique town known for “quaintness and atmosphere of the town and the friendly people.”

As you can see, three of the seven Matriarchs and Patriarchs are from the same family—the Divel Dynasty. Just the kind of people Ole Hanson hoped he could attract to his “Beautiful Spanish Village by the Sea.”

STORY UPDATE: A couple weeks ago, we ran a picture from the 1950s of a young boy straddling a huge black bass on the pier and asked if anyone could identify the boy. Reader Rebecca Weigel identified him as Kenny Nielson, her parents’ best friend. Thanks, Rebecca. The information will be added to the Historical Society’s archives. SC

Tom Marshall is a member of the San Clemente Historical Society and a retired journalist.

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR

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

To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult.

Level: Medium

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

GUEST OPINION | Historical Happenings by Tom Marshall

The Divel Mortuary (pictured here) was the sixth building in San Clemente in 1928. Town founder Ole Hanson told Roy Divel, “If you have the guts to build a funeral home in a town of 200 people, go ahead, but build it on the outskirts.” Photo: Courtesy of the San Clemente Historical Society

LOCALS ONLY BUSINESS DIRECTORY

BODY MIND SPIRIT

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Let us assist you in creating a life plan for the life & relationships you want & deserve. Body Mind Spirit, 949.248.7377, bodymindspirit.com

DENTISTS

Benjamin Stevens, D.D.S.

3553 Camino Mira Costa, Suite B, San Clemente, 949.493.2391, benstevensdds.com

Eric Johnson, D.D.S.

647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, San Clemente, 949.493.9311, drericjohnson.com

949.361.1045,

LIST LOCALS ONLY USE LOCALS ONLY

For pricing call 949.388.7700, ext. 102 or lloynes@picketfencemedia.com

ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTIONS

PERIODONTICS &

PROSTHODONTICS

Hamilton Le, D.M.D., F.A.C.P.

1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, San Clemente, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), moranperio.com

REALTORS

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

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

DENTAL IMPLANTS

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NO. 1748

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Clemente, at its Regular Meeting of December 20, 2022, introduced the following Ordinance:

Ordinance No. 1748 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE AMENDING CHAPTERS 16.50 AND 17.86 AND AMENDING SECTION 17.52.020 TO THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE TO REGULATE URBAN LOT SPLITS AND TWOUNIT PROJECTS UNDER SB 9; AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

Persons interested in receiving an inspection copy of the Ordinance are invited to call the Deputy City Clerk at (949) 361-8303 or by email at Jimenezm@san-clemente.org. Copies will be emailed or mailed to you at no cost.

NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Clemente will consider adopting the aforementioned Ordinance at its meeting of January 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers, located at 910 Calle Negocio, 2nd Floor, San Clemente.

LAURA CAMPAGNOLO City Clerk & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDINANCE NOS. 1740, 1741, 1742, 1743, 1744, and 1745

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of San Clemente, at its Regular Meeting of December 20, 2022, adopted the following Ordinances:

Ordinance No. 1740 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING SECTION 17.24.070 OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING DENSITY BONUSES AND OTHER AFFORDABLE HOUSING INCENTIVES REQUIRED BY STATE LAW AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

Ordinance No. 1741 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING SECTION 17.56.100 OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE TO COMPLY WITH ASSEMBLY BILL 139 REGARDING PARKING REQUIREMENTS FOR EMERGENCY SHELTERS AND FINDING THE ORDINANCE NOT SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

Ordinance No. 1742 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING SECTION 17.28.270 OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE GOVERNING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS TO COMPLY WITH CHANGES IN STATE LAW AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM CEQA (CEQA)

Ordinance No. 1743 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF

29, 2022-January 4, 2023

SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ENSURE CONSISTENCY WITH STATE LAW REGARDING LOW BARRIER NAVIGATION CENTERS AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

Ordinance No. 1744 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE TO ENSURE CONSISTENCY WITH STATE LAW REGARDING SUPPORTIVE AND TRANSITIONAL HOUSING AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

Ordinance No. 1745 entitled AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA AMENDING VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)

A full copy of the aforementioned Ordinances are available for review in the City Clerk’s Office, located at 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, California. Persons interested in receiving a copy of the Ordinances are invited to contact the Deputy City Clerk at (949) 361-8303 or by email at jimenezm@ san-clemente.org.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the above-referenced Ordinances were introduced at the City Council meeting of December 6, 2022, and were adopted at the Regular City Council meeting of December 20, 2022 by the following vote:

AYES: CABRAL, ENMEIER, KNOBLOCK, MAYOR DUNCAN

NOES: None

ABSENT: JAMES

LAURA CAMPAGNOLO City Clerk & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT ON JANUARY 17, 2023 A PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE, CALIFORNIA RELATIVE TO THE FOLLOWING:

Appeal of Revocation of Administrative Encroachment Permit E22-0112, Conley Residential Landscape Improvements in the Street Right of Way of Via Manzana and Paseo Activo

Public Hearing to consider a resident initiated appeal of the Public Works Director’s revocation of Administrative Encroachment Permit E22-0112 (“Permit”) for the Conley Residential Landscape Improvements located in the street right of way of Via Manzana and Paseo Activo. Per conditions of the Administrative Encroachment Permit, the permit was revoked and requires the removal of landscape improvements that the Conley’s constructed in portions of the street right of way near their residence.

The permit and related documents are on file in the City of San Clemente Public Works Department,

910 Calle Negocio, and are available for public inspection by contacting (949) 361-6135. If you challenge Council’s decision on this appeal in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised in written correspondence delivered to the City of San Clemente, or by written and oral testimony presented at the meeting during the Public Hearing.

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

Notice is further given that said meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the San Clemente City Council Chambers, located at 910 Calle Negocio, 2nd Floor, San Clemente, California. All interested persons are invited to attend said hearing or provide written communication to the City Council to express their opinion for or against the project.

Laura Campagnolo City Clerk & Ex-Officio Clerk of the Council

PUBLIC NOTICE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20226650814

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: FREEDESK 2323 MAIN STREET IRVINE, CA 92614

Full Name of Registrant(s): ALSTON INTERNATIONAL INC 3333 MICHELSON DRIVE SUITE 300 IRVINE, CA 92612

This business is conducted by a California Corporation

The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a ALSTON INTERNATIONAL INC/s/ZHIJIE WANG, ZHIJIE WANG, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 12/12/2022 Published in: San Clemente Times December 29, 2022, January 5, 12, 19, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

approval for many actions taken in connection with the estate. However, before taking certain actions, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action. The petition will be granted unless good cause is shown why it should not be.

A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows:

a. Date: March 22, 2023 Time: 1:30 p.m. in Dept: C08

b. Address of Court: 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701

c. The court is providing the convenience to appear for hearing by video using the court’s designated video platform. This is a no cost service to the public. (1) Appearance at the hearing must be by video remote using the court’s designated video platform; (2) Go to the Court’s website at http://www.occourts.org/media-relations/ probate-mental-health.html to appear remotely for probate hearings and for remote hearing instructions; (3) If you have difficulty connecting to your remote hearing, call 657-622-8278 for assistance.

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 58 of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of delivery of the notice to you under Section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may request special notice of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Section 1250 of the California Probate Code.

Attorney for Petitioner: M. Damien Holcomb, Esq. 1875 Century Park East, Suite 2100, Los Angeles, CA 90067

Ph: (310) 274-8700

Published in: San Clemente Times, December 29, 2022, January 5, 12, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

NOTICE

OF PETITION

TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ROBERT D. TUMBRELLO Case Number: 30-2022-01275161-PR-LA-CJC

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will and or estate, or both, of ROBERT D. TUMBRELLO

A Petition for Probate has been filed by SAVANNAH TUMBRELLO HUNTER in the Superior Court of California, County of ORANGE.

The Petition for Probate requests that MARY MAKLER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. This will avoid the need to obtain court

City Project No. ___(TBD)___

Bids must be submitted electronically through the City of San Clemente’s electronic procurement and bidding system (PlanetBids) at: https://pbsystem. planetbids.com/portal/28939/portal-home.

All bidders must first register as a vendor on this website to participate in a bid or to be added to a prospective bidders list. Bids must be received by no later than 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 12, 2023. All bids received after that time will be considered non-responsive and will be deemed disqualified. Only electronic bids submitted through PlanetBids will be accepted.

The primary scope of the project is for the contractor to provide enforcement of the City’s street sweeping parking restrictions in the Neighborhood

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Pride Program (NPP) posted areas as well as restricted and paid parking throughout the City of San Clemente, CA.

Additional and more detailed information is provided in the Instructions to Bidders, Specifications and contract documents posted in the City’s PlanetBids website, which should be carefully reviewed by all bidders before submitting a Bid Proposal.

Notice To be published: December 29, 2022 And January 05, 2023

In light of the current situation there will be NO pre-bid meeting held for this Project. Any questions in reference to the project must be submitted via PlanetBids. The deadline to submit any questions will be Monday, January 09, 2022 at 8:00 a.m.

Dated December 21, 2022

City of San Clemente Public Works Department 910 Calle Negocio San Clemente, CA 92673

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE INVITING BIDS

AVENIDA MONTALVO CANYON AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS

Project No. 16004

1. Notice. Public notice is hereby given that the City of San Clemente (“City”) will receive sealed bids for the following project:

AVENIDA MONTALVO CANYON AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 16004

2. Electronic bids must be submitted prior to 2:00 P.M. on January 17, 2023, on the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal, at which time or thereafter bids will be opened and made available online. Bids received after this time will be considered non-responsive. Prospective bidders must first register as a vendor and then bid on this project via the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal website at www. san-clemente.org/vendorbids.

3. Project Scope of Work.

The work to be performed, in general, consists of furnishing all materials, equipment, tools, labor, and incidentals as required by the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents for the installation of approximately 54 linear feet of 9- and 12-foot high rock-filled and stacked gabion baskets witin the confined area of Montalvo Canyon immediately upstream of the San Clemente Pedestrian Beach Trail, in the City of San Clemente, CA. The work includes the construction of a concrete footing for the gabions below the existing grade of the canyon bottom. The back side of the gabions, between the gabions and the near-vertical canyon bluff will be backfilled with gravel. The work also includes grading of the canyon bottom, the placement of a gabion mat along the canyon bottom in vicinity of the upstream end of the improvements, and the construction of reinforced concrete trail improvements along the bank opposite of the gabion installation. The work requires revetation of the project area prior to completion of the work.

Bidders should be advised that safety during construction is paramount and it will be the selected contractor’s sole responsibility, in accordance with the contrantor’s means and methods..

4. Contract Time: The work must be completed within Sixty (60) working days from the date specified in the written Notice to Proceed.

5. License and Registration Requirements.

December 29, 2022-January 4, 2023

5.1. State License. Pursuant to California Public Contract Code Section 3300, the City has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid California contractor’s license for the following classification: Class “A”. Failure to possess the specified license(s) at the time of bid opening shall render the bid as non-responsive and shall act as a bar to award the contract to that non-responsive bidder.

5.2. Department of Industrial Relations Registration. Pursuant to California Labor Code Sections 1725.5 and 1771.1, all contractors and subcontractors that wish to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, or enter into a contract to perform public work must be registered with the Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”). No bid will be accepted nor any contract entered into without proof of the contractor’s and subcontractors’ current registration with the DIR to perform public work. If awarded a contract, the Bidder and its subcontractors, of any tier, shall maintain active registration with the DIR for the duration of the Project.

5.3. City Business License. Prior to the Notice to Proceed for this contract, the Contractor shall possess a valid City of San Clemente business license.

6. Contract Documents. Bid documents, including instructions to bidders, bidder proposal form, and specifications (not including other documents incorporated by reference) may be downloaded, at no cost, from the City’s PlanetBids System Vendor Portal website at www.san-clemente.org/ vendorbids. Bidders must first register as a vendor on the City of San Clemente PlanetBids system to view and download the Contract Documents, to be added to the prospective bidders list, and to receive addendum notifications when issued.

7. Bid Proposal and Security.

7.1. Bid Proposal Form. No bid will be received unless it is made on a proposal form furnished by the City. Bidders must complete line items information (PlanetBids Line Items Tab), and attach a scanned copy of the paper Bid Form (SECTION 00400), Bid Bond (SECTION 004100), Non-Collusion Declaration (SECTION 00420), Contractor Information and Experience Form (SECTION 00430), List of Subcontractors Form (SECTION 00440), Iran Contracting Act Certification (SECTION 00450), Public Works Contractor Registration Certification (SECTION 00460) completed and uploaded in the PlanetBids “Attachments” Tab. No bid will be received unless it is made on a proposal form furnished by the City.

7.2. Bid Security. Each bid proposal must be accompanied by security in the form of cash, certified check, cashier’s check, or bid bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the total bid amount. Personal checks or company checks are not acceptable forms of bid security. All certified and cashier’s checks must be drawn on a responsible bank doing business in the United States and shall be made payable to THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE. Bid bonds must be issued by a surety company licensed to do business in the State of California and must be made payable to THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE. Bids not accompanied by the required bid security will be rejected. For electronic submittal of bids, the bid security must be received at the City of San Clemente Public Works office, 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673 within 24 hours of the bid opening date and time (excluding weekends and holiy-

days). The bid security must be submitted in a sealed envelope bearing the name and address of the bidder, and the outside of the envelope must read as follows:

OFFICIAL BID SECURITY - DO NOT OPEN AVENIDA MONTALVO CANYON AND TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS Project No. 16004 Bid Opening Date: 2:00 P.M. on January 17, 2023

The bid security shall serve as a guarantee that the bidder will enter into a contract. Such guarantee shall be forfeited should the bidder to whom the contract is awarded fail to enter into the contract within 15 calendar days after written notification that the contract has been awarded to the successful bidder.

8. Prevailing Wage Requirements.

8.1. General. This project is subject to the prevailing wage requirements applicable to the locality in which the work is to be performed for each craft, classification or type of worker needed to perform the work, including employer payments for health and welfare, pension, vacation, apprenticeship and similar purposes.

8.2. Rates. Prevailing rates are available online at www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR and also available at the City of San Clemente Public Works Department Office at 910 Calle Negocio, San Clemente, CA 92673. Each Contractor and Subcontractor must pay no less than the specified rates to all workers employed to work on the project. The schedule of per diem wages is based upon a working day of eight hours. The rate for holiday and overtime work must be at least time and one-half.

8.3. Compliance Monitoring. Pursuant to California Labor Code Section 1771.4, all bidders are hereby notified that this project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the California Department of Industrial Relations. In bidding on this project, it shall be the Bidder’s sole responsibility to evaluate and include the cost of complying with all labor compliance requirements under this contract and applicable law in its bid.

9. Retention. Pursuant to the contract for this project, five percent (5%) of each progress payment will be retained as security for completion of the balance of the work.

Substitution of appropriate securities in lieu of retention amounts from progress payments is permitted pursuant to California Public Contract Code Section 22300. Refer to the contract for further clarification.

10. Performance and Payment Bonds. The successful bidder, simultaneously with execution of the contract, will be required to provide Faithful Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract amount. Bonds are to be secured from a surety that meets all of the State of California bonding requirements, as defined in Code of Civil Procedure Section 995.120, and is admitted by the State of California.

11. Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting. A Non-Mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held for this bid solicitation at the job site, on January 4, 2023, at 9:00 A.M. Refer to the Instructions to Bidders section on how to submit any pre-bid questions.

12. Not Used

13. Instructions to Bidders. Additional and more

detailed information is provided in the Instructions to Bidders, which should be carefully reviewed by all bidders before submitting a Bid Proposal.

14. Questions. All questions related to this bid solicitation must be submitted in writing via email to Amir K. Ilkhanipour at ilkhanipoura@san-clemente.org no later than January 9, 2023, at 2:00 P.M.

THE CITY OF SAN CLEMENTE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS, TO AWARD ALL OR ANY INDIVIDUAL PART/ITEM OF THE BID, AND TO WAIVE ANY INFORMALITIES, IRREGULARITIES OR TECHNICAL DEFECTS IN SUCH BIDS OR IN THE BIDDING PROCESS. ANY CONTRACT AWARDED WILL BE LET TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER AS DETERMINED FROM THE BASE BID ALONE. Dated: December 22, 2022

City of San Clemente Public Works Department 910 Calle Negocio San Clemente, CA 92673

END OF NOTICE INVITING BIDS

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO

SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE

OF NAME Case No. 22FL001095

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Seyed Jamaleddin Ahmadi Abhari; Seyed Jamaleddin Ahmadi Abhari on behalf of Seyed Parsa Ahmadi Abhari and Seyed Pendar Ahmadi Abhari, minors filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name

Seyed Jamaleddin Ahmadi Abhari

Seyed Parsa Ahmadi Abhari

Seyed Pendar Ahmadi Abhari

Proposed Name Jamal Abhari Parsa Abhari Pendar Abhari

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall 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

a. Date: 02/01/2023 Time: 1:30 p.m. Dept.: L74

The address of the court is Orange County Superior Court, Family Law Court Operations, 341 The City Dr S., Orange, CA 92868. Other: Remote. The court is providing the convenience to appear for hearing by video using the court’s designated video platform. This is a no cost service to the public. Go to the Court’s website at The Superior Court of California - County of Orange (occourts.org) to appear remotely for hearings and for remote hearing instructions. If you have difficulty connecting or are unable to connect to your remote hearing, call 657-622-8278 for assistance. If you prefer to appear in-person, you can appear in the department on the day/ time set for your hearing.

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 pe

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tition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times, December 15, 22, 29, January 5, 2022

Date: November 30, 2022, Judge Julie A. Palafox, Judge of the Superior Court

PUBLIC NOTICE

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 22FL001029

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Christy Kate King filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name Christy Kate King

Proposed Name

Christy Kate Myers

THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall 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

a. Date: 01/18/2023 Time: 1:30 p.m. Dept.: L74

b. The address of the court is Lamoraux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, CA

92868. Other: Remote. The court is providing the convenience to appear for hearing by video using the court’s designated video platform. This is a no cost service to the public. Go to the Court’s website at The Superior Court of California - County of Orange (occourts.org) to appear remotely for hearings and for remote hearing instructions. If you have difficulty connecting or are unable to connect to your remote hearing, call 657-622-8278 for assistance. If you prefer to appear in-person, you can appear in the department on the day/time set for your hearing.

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, December 8, 15, 22, 29, 2022

Date: November 10, 2022, Judge Mary Krober-Varipapa, Judge of the Superior Court

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

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

2022 SAN CLEMENTE SPORTS YEAR IN REVIEW

BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

San Clemente athletes once again soared on local, national and international stages striving for and capturing championship gold in several disciplines.

Here is a look back at some of the memorable San Clemente sports moments of 2022:

the 200- and 400-meter sprints, including a school-record in the 400.

APRIL

Andre Pallante Makes MLB Debut Pallante, a 2016 San Clemente graduate, was one of two Tritons on MLB Opening Day rosters, and the right-handed pitcher made his debut with the St. Louis Cardinals. Kolby Allard was on the Opening Day roster for the Texas Rangers.

McKnight, Cumin Baksic, Springman Named to SC Sports Wall of Fame Mater Dei boys basketball coach Gary McKnight, all-around athlete Brandi Cumin Baksic and youth sports pioneer John Springman were named the 25th, 26th and 27th honorees for the San Clemente Sports Wall of Fame. The trio were officially inducted at the eighth annual ceremony in May.

Time Rancho San Clemente for the Professional Pickleball Association’s Orange County Cup. The four-day event saw some of the sport’s top-ranked players compete.

league championships and put together a 426-98-2 dual meet record.

SCHS Boys Cross Country Wins Second Straight County Title

Senior Juan Chantaca won the individual title by just 0.4 seconds to pace the Tritons to their second consecutive Orange County Championship title. The Tritons placed three runners in the top four and all five scorers in the top 15.

JANUARY

Hailey Langland Qualifies for Second Winter Olympics

The San Clemente snowboarder was named to the United States Olympic women’s big air and slopestyle team at the U.S. Grand Prix at Mammoth Mountain. The 21-year-old made the finals in both events at the Beijing Games in February, but she did not place.

FEBRUARY

SCHS Boys Wrestling Wins Third Straight CIF-SS Championship Top-seeded Tritons dominated Victor Valley by winning 10 of 14 matches to win the Division 3 dual meet title. San Clemente would go on to send five wrestlers from the boys and girls programs to the state meet.

MARCH

Marc Popovich Steps Down as SCHS Boys Basketball Coach After 15 Seasons Popovich, a 1998 San Clemente graduate, compiled a 227-166 record in 15 seasons with the Tritons, including five league championships and 11 consecutive playoff appearances. Assistant coach Landon Pluimer moved into the head coach role.

Caroline Hawkes Wins Double County Gold for Second Straight Season

The San Clemente senior was named the sprinter of the meet at her second consecutive Orange County Championships with back-to-back county titles in

MAY

Caroline Hawkes Finishes Fourth at State Track Championships

The San Clemente senior claimed one of the top-six medals in her final run as a Triton in the girls 400-meter final at the CIF State Track & Field Championships in Clovis. Hawkes won Sea View League titles in the 200-meter and 400-meter races and also finished fourth in the 400 at the CIF-SS Division 1 Finals.

Noah Sech, Madelyn Phillips Swim at State Finals

The two San Clemente juniors each qualified for the state finals in one event. Phillips was the first Triton girls swimmer to qualify for state and swam in the 100-yard breaststroke consolation finals. Sech swam in the 200-yard individual medley consolation finals.

JUNE

Pro Pickleball Orange County Cup Draws Crowd of Thousands

More than 4,000 spectators and many more live viewers on the Tennis Channel took in high-level pickleball play at Life

JULY

Ocean Festival Returns for 45th Edition

After a three-year hiatus, athletes swam, ran, paddled and surfed next to the San Clemente Pier as the Ocean Festival returned for its 45th year. The festival welcomed an estimated 35,000 attendees to take part in and view the numerous competitions and entertainment.

AUGUST

SCHS Football Showcases Offense in First Two Games

The San Clemente football team put forth tremendous offensive performances in its opening wins at Oceanside, 48-7, and at home over Torrey Pines, 28-17. Broderick Redden threw four touchdown passes, including three to Thomas Hartanov, at Oceanside, and Blake Allen ran for more than 100 yards in both games with three total touchdowns.

SEPTEMBER

SCHS Boys Cross Country Opens Historic Season with Big Wins

The San Clemente boys cross country team began its season in Hawaii and placed two runners in the top three and three in the top 10 to take the Iolani Invitational. The Tritons returned to the mainland and dominated the Dana Hills Invitational with another three top-10 finishers. It was a sign of things to come.

OCTOBER

Legendary SCHS Wrestling Coach

Mark Calentino Retires after 32 Years Calentino won a combined six CIF-SS championships in charge of the San Clemente boys wrestling program, including three tournament titles and three dual meet titles. The Tritons won 18

NOVEMBER

SCHS

Boys Water Polo Falls in CIF-SS Final

The San Clemente boys water polo team played in its fifth CIF-SS championship game and its first since 2019, but the Tritons couldn’t find their second championship. San Clemente also advanced to the Regional semifinals.

SCHS Boys Cross Country Wins First CIF-SS Title, Finishes Second at State

The San Clemente runners battled their way to hold off a challenge from Great Oak and win the program’s first CIF-SS Championship in the Division 1 Final. In Fresno, Great Oak reversed the story and edged out San Clemente for the State Championship.

DECEMBER

Lauren Brzykcy Wins NCAA Soccer Title with UCLA

The UCLA Bruins women’s soccer team was backstopped by San Clemente graduate Lauren Brzykcy to win the program’s first NCAA Division 1 championship. Brzykcy made five saves as UCLA made a comeback in the final 10 minutes and won in double-overtime.

SCHS Boys Cross Country Finishes

Seventh at Nationals

San Clemente ran at the Nike Cross Nationals in Portland, Oregon for the first time and finished in the top third of the national field. Four Tritons placed in the top 100 to push San Clemente into seventh. SC

Hailey Langland. Photo: Mike Dawsy/U.S. Ski and Snowboard

Caroline Hawkes. Photo: Jimmy Su Photography

Ocean Festival. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

SCHS Boys Water Polo. Photo: Zach Cavanagh

Another Lap Around the Sun

Looking back at the year that was and what 2023 holds in store

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

As we close out 2022 and get ready for another lap around the sun, we have plenty to be thankful for, as well as plenty to look forward to.

Let’s start with the immediate. According to the crack forecast team at Surfline, it’s looking as if 2023 is going to start with some significant waves (it may also start with some rainy weather).

It’s always a little dicey to put a surf forecast in this column, as things can change by the time it goes to print, but if forecast models hold true, we could be looking at our first decent west swell of the winter season.

There will be a mix of swells during the week between Christmas and New Year’s, but the week of Jan. 2 looks to be holding the most promise.

As we get further into January, we’ll be bracing for the start of the WSL Championship Tour at Pipeline. San Clemente’s Griffin Colapinto is fresh off an impressive second-place finish at the recent Vans Pipe Masters, while Kolohe Andino is coming off of a win at the Cold Water Classic up in Santa Cruz. The results should give both surfers

plenty of confidence and momentum as they begin their chase for the 2023 world title—which will culminate with the Rip Curl WSL Finals at Lower Trestles in September.

Colapinto just missed out on last year’s Finals, finishing the season ranked seventh in the world (the top five qualify for the Finals). Meanwhile, Andino battled back from injury last year to wrap up his season ranked 21st in the world.

January will also see the San Clemente Board Riders head Down Under for the Usher Cup. A global gathering of surf clubs from around Australia, as well as New Zealand, Japan, France and Indonesia, the crew from San Clemente will join

other U.S.-based clubs from Maui and Huntington Beach.

While there are plenty of bragging rights on the table, the event is also hoping to raise upwards of $100,000 for charity.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to spend time with other surf clubs from around the world and learn and build friendships,” says San Clemente Board Riders President Benji Severson. “Australia has had the club thing going for so long, it’s foundational in their surf culture, and we’re honored to be able to represent our town and be part of that. It means a lot to represent San Clemente.”

Looking back at the year that was, with all the great swells and good times at the beach in the rear-view mirror, we honor the heroes and legends we lost along the way. It still seems impossible that luminaries in our community including Art Brewer, Brad Bashum and Fred Swegles have passed on to the great lineup in the sky.

Brewer created the images that captured every surfer’s imagination, and likely launched thousands of surf trips in the process.

Bashum provided every would-be shaper with a home, a safe space to learn their craft, buy supplies and spend time with other like-minded surfboard builders.

And then there was Swegles, whose stories and photography were foundational for generations of aspiring surfers. Be sure to catch a wave for them the next time you paddle out.

There’s plenty to look forward to in the year ahead. New swells to chase, new contests to win and new adventures to have.

We’ve also got a few tough fights on our hands in the months ahead, including what happens with the lease for San Onofre State Beach and the issue of beach erosion that has imperiled the coastline in San Clemente and Capo Beach.

But for now, have a very happy New Year. Surf and enjoy. SC

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

SURF FORECAST

GROM OF THE WEEK

ADDISON MCPHILLIPS

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

here are enough amazing surfers in the McPhillips family that they could definitely field their own surf team.

Leading the charge as of late is Addison McPhillips.

A junior at San Clemente High, she recently won the South Coast League individuals for the Tritons. A competitive weapon, McPhillips scored some big results and invaluable

experience in USA Surfing and NSSA events over the past year.

When she’s not surfing with a jersey on,

you can probably find the strong, powerful regular-footer with great style etched into her DNA in the water at spots such as T-Street and Trestles. But she’s also a keen traveler and loves chasing waves up and down the coast with her friends and family.

And when she and the cousins all get together for a session, it’s pure magic.

Not just a brilliant surfer, McPhillips is also a brilliant student. She’s currently riding high with a 3.8 GPA. Her favorite subject is Spanish, which makes sense considering how good the waves get south of the border.

With a new year upon us, we can’t wait to see what McPhillips and all her friends and family accomplish in 2023. SC

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

Water Temperature: 57-58 Degrees F

Water Visibility and Conditions: 2-3’

Thursday: HEasing WNW swell with waist to chest high surf, (3-4’) at well exposed spots. Clean surface conditions in the morning from light offshore wind out of the ENE. Light onshore westerly winds develop in the afternoon for textured conditions.

Outlook: A mix of WNW swell maintains waist to chest high zone waves, (3-4’) on Friday and Saturday, then bumps up for waist to shoulder high surf, (3-4’+) by Sunday. Light+ SSE-S winds keep water conditions textured Friday through Saturday morning, then a moderate+ SW breeze develops Saturday afternoon for a building bump on the water. Conditions worsen Sunday, as breezy W-WNW winds pick up.

This fall, San Clemente’s Griffin Colapinto made headlines when he parted ways with longtime sponsor Billabong and inked a new deal with surf wear icon Quiksilver. He finished 2022 ranked seventh on the WSL Championship Tour. Photo: Courtesy of Quiksilver

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY CAPISTRANO VALLEY TOYOTA

Addison McPhillips. Photo: Courtesy of the McPhillips Family