December 31, 2020 by San Clemente Times

December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

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CoastLines by Fred Swegles: What Was It Like 5 Years Ago? PAGE 10 VOLUME 16, ISSUE 1

Looking Ahead

Hitting the Ground Running in 2021 E Y E O N S C / PAG E 5

San Clemente Mayor Kathy Ward and the rest of the city council will continue to face the ongoing pandemic in 2021 on top of an already packed agenda. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

SoCal Remains Under Stay-at-Home Order EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

City Reaches Settlement with Former City Manager EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

12 Moments in Surf That Made 2020 SURF/PAGE 14

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San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

What’s Up With... Five things San Clemente should know this week Next Phase of Vaccine Distribution Outlined as StayAt-Home Order Extended THE LATEST: As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, the state of California continues to look ahead. On Monday, Dec. 28, Gov. Gavin Newsom outlined Phase 1B recipients of the state’s vaccine distribution plan, and on the following day, Health and Human Services secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly confirmed that the stay-athome order would remain in place in the Southern California region because the projected four-week available ICU capacity and other pandemic metrics are not improving. California is still in Phase 1A of its COVID-19 vaccine distribution plans, with the state’s health care workers, first responders and nursing home facility staff and residents continuing to receive their first doses. For Phase 1B, which could start in the next month, Newsom said the state has outlined a group of recipients that includes people 75 and older, teachers, child care workers, emergency services workers, and food and agriculture workers. Incarcerated individuals are also expected to be in this group. Newsom estimated that 262,000 doses had been administered in California as of Monday, with 1.8 million doses in supply. The state expects to receive 297,375 more Pfizer-manufactured vaccines and 232,000 more Moderna-manufactured vaccines by the end of the week. The vaccine distribution plans are another

step forward, while the state’s regional stayat-home orders—the first of which for the Southern California and the San Joaquin Valley regions ended their initial three weeks on Sunday, Dec. 27—will be extended. As originally outlined, after the initial three-week period of the stay-at-home orders passed, the state will now make a daily review of each region’s projected four-week available ICU capacity, and if that projection remains under 15%, the order shall remain in place. Once the region’s four-week projection shows 15% availability or greater, the region will be released from the order. The projections are based on the region’s current ICU capacity, seven-day average case rate per 100,000 residents, transmission rate and rate of ICU admission. Dr. Ghaly noted the case rate may be chief among these metrics for projection, as the state has found about 12% of new cases are in the hospital within 10-12 days of a positive test and that 10% or more of those newly hospitalized cases will eventually enter the ICU. The Southern California region and Orange County were again both listed at 0.0% adjusted ICU availability on Tuesday, Dec. 29. According to the county, the adjusted ICU availability is being used “to preserve the capacity of the ICU to also treat non-COVID-19 conditions … If a disproportionate number of ICU beds are being utilized to treat COVID-19 patients, then patients with non-COVID medical issues may not be receiving or be able to receive the level of care they need.” If a region is using more than 30% of its ICU beds for COVID-19 patients, an extra 0.5% is removed in the adjusted capacity for every 1% over that 30% threshold to preserve those necessary resources and beds. As of Tuesday, Southern California had an unadjusted available ICU capacity of 10.9%, and Orange County was at 8.9%. Southern California is down from 12.3% last week, and Orange County is up from 7.5%. The San Joaquin Valley (0.0%), the Bay Area (10.4%) and Greater Sacramento

San Clemente

TOTAL CASES

COVID-19 UPDATES as of 12/29/20

cases

deaths

TOTAL

1,610

743

LAST 30 DAYS

est. population • 65,405 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for daily local & county statistics. Source: Orange County Health Care Agency

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

LAST 30 DAYS

The city council last month voted to approve a $360,000 settlement agreement with former City Manager James Makshanoff, pictured here. Photo: File/Eric Heinz

(19.1%) regions are the other three of the state’s five regions under the stay-at-home order. Currently, the San Joaquin Valley is the only other region to go through its initial three weeks and will also receive the daily four-week projections. Northern California is at 27.9%. State hospitalizations have risen 36.5% in the past 14 days, and state ICU patients have gone up 35.1% in 14 days. As of Tuesday, Orange County hospitalizations had risen 53.6% in the past 14 days, with ICU patients increasing by 59.8%. Both the state and county are at a record number of COVID-19 hospitalizations at 21,240 and 2,106, respectively. Orange County is at a record number of ICU patients with 473.—Zach Cavanagh

City Reaches Settlement with Former City Manager THE LATEST: The city council last month voted to approve a $360,000 settlement agreement with James Makshanoff, the city’s former chief executive, who lobbed a series of accusations against the city over the summer. During the council’s Nov. 17 meeting, City Attorney Scott Smith reported out of closed session that the council voted, 3-1, to approve the settlement, with Councilmember Laura Ferguson dissenting. According to the settlement that San Clemente Times obtained through a public records request, Makshanoff will receive $216,000 through the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, the city’s insurance pool, while the remaining $144,000 will be paid to Makshanoff’s legal counsel, the Law Office of Lawrence J. Lennemann. Makshanoff’s attorney this past August sent a letter to the city, threatening a lawsuit, as the former head of the city raised claims of breach of contract, wrongful termination and retaliation. Lennemann had sought to meet with the city’s legal team in order to settle the issue without going to court. The settlement, which did not provide

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details relating to Makshanoff’s claims and accusations, stipulated that he not file any complaint, charge or lawsuit against the city to any court or any other government agency. “Employee (Makshanoff) further agrees and acknowledges that by executing this Agreement, he is irrevocably and unequivocally dismissing all grievances, administrative appeals, arbitration demands, and/or civil claims he has or may have against the Employer (city),” the settlement stated. Asked if he could elaborate on Makshanoff’s claims and what instances or incidents the former city manager pointed to, Smith responded via email that the “risk pool assumed full responsibility for the evaluation, assessment, details, and settlement of the claim, so there’s no additional detail available on it, other than the agreement itself.” As of press time, Makshanoff’s attorney had not responded to SC Times’ request seeking comment. The agreement came just about a year after Makshanoff had announced he would be resigning as city manager, as he had accepted a similar role with the city of Pomona beginning this past January. In his resignation letter, Makshanoff, who started with the city in September 2014, said he was “grateful to San Clemente for the opportunity given (to) me” and that stepping down “was not an easy decision for me.”—Shawn Raymundo

City Revenues Behind Pace from Previous Fiscal Years THE LATEST: The city’s general fund revenue collections for the first quarter of the fiscal year were slightly behind pace compared to the previous year—a direct result of pandemic restrictions, city officials recently reported to the council. According to the city’s latest financial report for the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2021—covering July through September—$5.7 million, or 8.3% of the $68.2 million (Cont. on page 4) sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC (Cont. from page 3) budgeted for the year has been collected in taxes and other revenue sources. Compared to the same period from FY 2020, the city’s revenue collections are behind by about $1.6 million. Nearly 11% of the city’s revenues in the last fiscal year were collected in the first quarter, the city noted. Jake Rahn, the financial services officer, noted that the pace has been slower than previous years because the pandemic has impacted travel, resulting in fewer transient occupancy taxes. The pandemic has also restricted recreational services and rental activity that would normally provide the city with revenues from fees and other charges. “Revenues below prior year are mostly and primarily in revenue sources, which are directly serving the public,” he said, adding: “These are primarily in the permits and fees, service charges, which include recreation classes and rental activity, all things that are restricted by pandemic operations.” As for the city’s largest sources of revenue—property and sales taxes—Rahn said the city isn’t seeing any issues with the tracking of those collections. Property taxes for the fiscal year, the bulk of which are typically collected in late fall and early spring, are expected to reach about $37.12 million—or roughly 54% of the city’s total revenue. Sales taxes will account for nearly $9.95 million of the total revenue. According to the city’s financial report, a total of $665,145 in property taxes was collected in the first quarter, down from the same period the prior year by $19,384. However, sales taxes collected from July through September were $907,157, which exceeded collections from the first quarter of FY 2020 by $67,692. In expenditures, the city spent just north of $17.2 million during the first quarter, or 24.6% of the $70 million budgeted—roughly matching the same spending pace compared to the same period last year, the financial report stated. Rahn noted that the $17.2 million spent was about $400,000 below the $17.6 million that the city had spent in the first quarter of FY 2020. “We’ve achieved some savings in a variety of areas, which includes lower costs in salaries, benefits, supplies and other charges and interdepartmental charges,” he said. Some line item expenditures in the first quarter, he said, did increase, including public safety costs—such as the police and fire contracts—and capital outlay. “Right now, staff is working with the departments to identify cost savings, and during mid-year adjustments, we’ll communicate those savings,” Rahn said. “The adjustments will not impact service levels and are mostly to offset areas where costs were not incurred … finance staff is confident these cost savings will address any decrease in the revenues.” WHAT’S NEXT: The city is slated to present to the council by March the LongTerm Financial Plan (LTFP). Additionally, the council, during the Dec. 15 meeting,

instructed staff to prepare a White Paper report on the city’s unfunded pension liability, which is at about $45 million. That White Paper is expected to be presented to the council prior to the LTFP workshop.—SR

OC Cities File Amicus Brief in Support of Barnes THE LATEST: Ahead of Christmas on Wednesday, Dec. 23, a group of Orange County cities filed an amicus brief to the Court of Appeal in California in support of Sheriff Don Barnes, who is challenging a recent court order requiring that he release up to 50% of the county jail population in order to implement socialdistancing measures and protect medically vulnerable inmates. The cities of Dana Point, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano last week joined the chorus of other Orange County cities standing by Barnes, including Newport Beach, Cypress, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Habra, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Orange, Placentia, Rancho Santa Margarita, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster and Yorba Linda. “If this ruling is allowed to stand, it will potentially result in the release of individuals who have been charged with serious and violent crimes,” Barnes wrote in a Dec. 16 letter to the county’s cities, encouraging them to file amicus briefs. In special meetings on Dec. 21, the Dana Point and San Clemente city councils voted unanimously to join the amicus brief in support of Barnes’ appeal to the order, which, he believes, could result in the release of hundreds of “dangerous offenders.” San Juan Capistrano City Manager Ben Seigel approved that city joining the amicus brief, as well. “Among our jail population are 490 inmates who have been charged with murder or attempted murder. Our jail population includes 237 people charged with child molestation,” Barnes wrote. “In my view, the release of even one of these inmates is too many.” The amicus brief argues that there is no evidence that the order will have the desired effect and that simply releasing inmates will not necessarily prevent them from contracting the coronavirus. “Relatedly, the Respondent Court’s Order does not take into account the current status of the two approved vaccines and that inmates are likely to be able to receive the vaccines soon,” the brief stated. “Providing vaccines is a more circumspect solution to this potential issue versus a massive release of dangerous inmates into the public.” The court order comes as the county jails are experiencing a COVID-19 outbreak that has continued to worsen. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department’s daily report on Tuesday, Dec. 29, there were 1,099 inmates currently testing positive for the virus.

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

Customers who would normally be greeted by a Walmart employee upon entrance were instead turned away from the San Clemente store on Monday, Dec. 28, as the location on Avenida Pico was temporarily closed for cleaning. Photo: Shawn Raymundo

The brief also argues that OCSD had been proactively taking steps to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 in its jails as early as March—a point Barnes previously made in his letter, wherein he stated: “As we have done in the past, we will work to reduce the spread of the virus and treat those that have tested positive.” The brief goes on to state that the jails began releasing some individuals 10 days early to stop the spread of COVID-19 while taking steps to reduce the prison population by creating accelerated release procedures for nonviolent offenders and the medically vulnerable. “Sheriff Barnes continued to act in the interests of public safety and inmate protecting by pursuing a strategy or early release and implementation of $0 bail,” the court filing continued. “The result was initially a 33% reduction in the prison population and eventually a 50% reduction based on an individualized assessment of inmate vulnerability and danger to the community.”—Lillian Boyd

Walmart Temporarily Closes San Clemente Store for Cleaning THE LATEST: Walmart on Monday, Dec. 28, temporarily closed its San Clemente location for cleaning and building sanitation, the retailer had announced earlier this week. According to an emailed statement from the company on Monday, the Walmart Supercenter at 951 Avenida Pico was scheduled to be closed until 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 30. Casey Staheli, a spokesperson with Walmart’s Corporate Affairs team, explained that the closure is part of a company-initiated program in which a third-party cleaning crew conducts a deep clean of the building. “Everything we’re doing is for the well-being of our associates and customers, and in consideration of guidance by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

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and health experts,” the company said in its statement. “When the store reopens Wednesday, we will continue conducting associate health screens and temperature checks, and all associates will be provided with face masks and gloves.” It was unclear whether the closure was related to an employee or staff members testing positive for COVID-19. In an email to San Clemente Times, Staheli said that the company couldn’t disclose information about potential positive cases because of privacy protections. “Today’s decision was made based on several factors as we focus on safely serving our customers during this unprecedented time,” Staheli said in the email, adding: “While we are not able to confirm any information related to the store at this time, we have been working to ensure our stores are cleaned and sanitized regularly.” Staheli wrote that the employees who were scheduled to work at the store will still be paid. He also said that the company works with employees and provides time needed for medical care in the event that a store has a confirmed case of the virus. “Associates have been encouraged to prioritize their health and stay home if feeling sick,” he said in the email. “We also implemented a COVID-19 emergency leave policy for all associates who feel unable or uncomfortable coming to work.” The closure in San Clemente coincided with another supercenter in Anaheim temporarily closing for cleaning, and followed the company’s closure of a San Jacinto location this past weekend, the Orange County Register reported. According to the company, the cleaning protocols “are in addition to the extensive measures we’ve put in place during the pandemic to help protect our associates and customers.” Such measures, the company said, include “installing sneeze guards at registers, temperature checks and mandatory mask-wearing for associates, placing social distancing signage and enacting emergency leave policy for associates who are unable or uncomfortable coming to work.”—SR sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Looking Ahead Ward Intends to Hit the Ground Running in 2021 BY SHAWN RAYMUNDO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

ith a full roster of the city council now on the dais, Kathy Ward, who was appointed mayor of San Clemente for 2021, is looking to accelerate into the New Year. “Now that we have five (councilmembers), my goal is to get up and hit the ground running,” she told San Clemente Times earlier this month. “And I just hope that everybody rolls up their sleeves and wants to work.” Heading into 2021, there won’t be a short supply of work to tackle, Ward acknowledged. The city of San Clemente is still without a permanent chief executive, so the ongoing search for a city manager is now at the forefront. Also, at the top of the priorities list is continuing the effort to bring back a local hospital and fighting toll road expansion. “So, first (priority) would be hiring the city manager. That got pushed back, so we’re down a city manager,” Ward said, noting that the city has previously had a city manager and an assistant city manager. “The city manager, that’s really important. We set the policy and the agenda, and the city managers follow it.” Currently, Assistant City Manager Erik Sund is at the helm in an acting capacity—a role he was appointed to over the summer after Robert Dunek’s contract as interim city manager wasn’t extended as a result of a gridlocked vote by the council. “We have Erik Sund running everything, and that makes it so that our city—we’re not running on a full staff—so we need that, and that’s what I hope we get to,” she said. “And we need every position filled that we need to and just start doing the city business.” When Ward sat down with SC Times, councilors were slated to get a report on the city manager recruitment during the closed session of their Dec. 15 meeting. At the same time, vaccines were just starting to get delivered to hospitals while the county was setting new records in hospitalizations and admissions to intensive care units. As of Monday, Dec. 29, the Orange County Health Care Agency reported San Clemente had roughly 1,600 cumulative cases—up from the 1,109 total cases reported the day of the interview. Locally, the city will continue to address the impacts of the public health crisis that continues to rage. Ward, who was previously mayor in 2017, said she wanted to take on the mayoral role again, as the council will need experienced leadership amid the ongoing challenges of the pandemic. “I wanted to be mayor since I was the most experienced councilmember this time around. I wanted to bring order to the meetings, civility, respect, and a really good working relationship, so we can do the business of the city,” she said. Because she’ll be going into her seventh year on the council, Ward said, she has a rapport with the elected San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

officials in other cities, as well as those on the Orange longer consider completing the 241 alignment, connectCounty Board of Supervisors, including Fifth District ing it to Interstate 5. representative Lisa Bartlett. “As long as they keep that (alignment), we don’t have What will be important moving forward during the assurance that a future board doesn’t want to do somepandemic, she added, is stability and respect among thing,” she said, adding: “If the TCA says in writing that the council. With residents already dealing and worthey are done … we would stop all of it. But they won’t rying about their own struggles, they shouldn’t have say that.” to worry about their elected leaders as well, Ward State Senate lawmakers earlier this year passed explained. legislation from Sen. Patricia Bates to permanently “That’s where I would really like to see us get back remove the alignment and have the 241 officially end into a groove where we—you know we all might apat Oso. However, the measure, Senate Bill 1373, was proach things differently, deal with things—but that unable to be heard in the State Assembly this legislative we honestly try very hard to work together to get session, as lawmakers focused solely on COVID-19 and things done, because that ultimately is what economic recovery. helps everyone,” she said. For 2021, the city’s focus, as it relates to the toll road Asked how she felt the city and and South County traffic, will be working collaboratively council handled the pandemic localwith the county and The Ranch on the design plans for ly so far, Ward candidly remarked: the free, county-operated arterial route. The council, “I think we did all right.” She during its Dec. 15 meeting, voted unanimously to enter went on to note that there was into a cooperative agreement with the county and RMV. definitely a learning curve and Ward said the three entities being “all on the same the conflicting information page is what I think is going to be very important.” Then coming out at the start of the she repeated herself for emphasis: “We just all need to crisis made it difficult to react be on the same page.” appropriately. Looking far ahead, Ward said that she’s looking “I think we all tried very forward to the revitalization of North Beach with the hard, and we had to learn along completion of the Miramar Events Center and the food with everyone else. We were all hall. Restoration work on the historic Miramar Thein it together, but I think we all ater and adjacent bowling alley got underway this past thought fast on our feet to get the February after a restaurateur purchased the shuttered outdoor dining; we did a lot of that, and properties. we did curbside pickup for takeout—the “I think it’s going to be open by this time next year staff came up with that idea, and it was great,” she of 2021. I’m very excited. That means North Beach is said. “We’ve done what we can to keep our businesses on its way. No more buildings sitting idle,” she said, going. We’re trying very hard. So, I think we did OK.” adding that residents will “be able to go back, and I As for the fight against a toll road that goes think that enriches everyone’s life and enjoyment of San through San Clemente, that will remain a Clemente. I’m excited about North Beach. I concern in the New Year, even as the really am … I think it’s going to be another county advances plans to extend recreation area like the pier.” Los Patrones Parkway as an Ward is also hopeful that by the arterial thoroughfare through summer, the widespread distribuRancho Mission Viejo, tion of vaccines will have conending just within the San tributed to a return to normalcy Clemente’s city limits at following the pandemic. Avenida La Pata. “I’m hoping to move forThis past March, the ward and put the pandemic Transportation Corridor issues behind us,” she said. “I Agencies’ Foothill/Eastknow my full year as mayor, ern Board of Directors we’ll probably be still dealing voted unanimously to with the effects of that on our instead pursue the extenpeople, on our businesses, sion of Los Patrones, but I’m hoping that the resiprecluding other proposdents will really shop local als to extend the 241 Toll and the businesses will keep Road through town. everyone safe and we’ll start Los Patrones begins moving out of this together.” at Oso Parkway—where In 2021, what the council the 241 ends—and conneeds, Ward concluded, is tinues south, currently continuity, something she felt ending at Cow Camp was lacking in 2020—that and Road in RMV, colloquihope. ally referred to as The “We need the stability so Ranch. that we set the tone for the Ward said she believes rest of the city. I think that’s the city has reached a important, and if I can help “hopeful conclusion” do that for this next year, I on the toll road issue. think that’s going to be what However, that doesn’t the city is going to need,” she mean the fight is over. said. “It’s going to be a weird She stated that she’ll feel year. It can’t be any weirder San Clemente Mayor Kathy Ward and the rest of the city council better if the TCA put it than 2020, but I’m hoping it’s will continue to face the ongoing pandemic in 2021 on top of an already packed agenda. Photos: Shawn Raymundo in writing that it will no more hopeful than 2020.” SC Page 5

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

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Rainbow Sandals on Christmas Eve donated $50,000 toward Casa Romantica’s Year-End Fundraiser, which will support the local nonprofit organization’s programs during the 2021 season. Photo: File

NEWS BITES Community COMPILED BY SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Rainbow Sandals Donates $50K to Casa Romantica’s Year-End Fundraiser As an early Christmas present, Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens last week received a considerable gift contribution toward its Year-End Fundraiser from San Clemente-based Rainbow Sandals. The company’s $50,000 donation bolstered the local nonprofit organization’s fundraiser, pushing it over its end goal. “I decided it was Rainbow Sandals’ responsibility to help these wonderful organizations like Casa Romantica and others in our community the best we can,” said Rainbow Sandals Founder and President Jay Longley in a press release. Rainbow Sandals has been a long-established San Clemente staple, since its founding in 1974. The company is best known for its sandals worn by surfers and men and women of all ages around the world. With its own nonprofit established in 2014, Rainbow Sandals has made it a goal to bolster those in the local community and beyond. Longley stated that he felt it was Rainbow Sandals’ role as a local business to help local nonprofits in the COVID-19 environment. Casa Romantica’s Year-End Fundraiser will use the profits in 2021, offering “art, music, history, horticulture, and literature” to all visitors and guests.” The organization will put on exhibitions, virtual tours, and educational programs both in-person and virtual throughout the 2021 season. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude for Rainbow Sandals’ generosity,” Amy Behrens, executive director of Casa Romantica, said in the release. “Despite a very challenging year for our nonprofit, their support has opened up new opportunities for Casa Romantica’s mission to expand beyond place. We’ve remained strong, finding new ways to make arts and education even more accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds wherever they are.”

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

Meetings

DENTISTS

SATURDAY, JAN. 2

Benjamin Stevens, D.D.S. 3553 Camino Mira Costa, suite B, 949.493.2391, benstevensdds.com

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.

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

ELECTRICAL

TUESDAY, JAN. 5

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045, arcadiaelectric.com

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, drug abuse, disrespect), will continue conducting its weekly meetings on Tuesdays via Zoom video conference. For detailed instructions on how to participate, email bilysanclemente@gmail.com.

MUSIC LESSONS Cello and Bass Academy 310.895.6145, celloandbassacademy.com Rock Club Music School 73 Via Pico Plaza, 949.463.1968, beachcitiesrockclub.com

Casa Romantica hosts year-round programs and educational experiences for visitors of all ages. The nonprofit prides itself in arranging free children’s art and education programs, including a two-week music intensive program for children who play cello, viola, violin, and piano. Casa Romantica will also be employing this year’s fundraising profits to maintain the Ole Hanson estate and its public gardens. More information about Casa Romantica and the nonprofit programs can be found at casaromantica.org.—Haley Chi-Sing Have something interesting to submit to our News Bites section?

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

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

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Hamilton Le, D.M.D., F.A.C.P. 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 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

RESTAURANTS Café Calypso 114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386

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

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EDITORIAL

ART + DESIGN

City Editor, SC Times Shawn Raymundo

Art Director Jasmine Smith

Senior City Editor, DP Times Lillian Boyd

Graphic Designer Chelsie Rex

City Editor, Capo Dispatch Collin Breaux

General Manager Alyssa Garrett

O P E R AT I O N S

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Columnist Fred Swegles

FINANCE

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

GUEST OPINION: Bartlett Bulletin by OC Board Supervisor Lisa Bartlett

2020: A Year for the History Books

s this year draws to a close, many of us will look back on 2020 as a year that has so far been unlike any other in this 21st century. Personally, I will look back on 2020 as a year when two of the most frequent words I heard were “Zoom meeting”; however, on a more serious note was our country grappling with the effects of a devastating global pandemic, civil unrest and a general election unlike any we’ve ever seen. Yet, despite the many challenges and uncertainty of the time, there was one thing that gave me hope, comfort and a renewed sense of belonging—the great American spirit! In every corner of every state, and especially here in Orange County, the American spirit was alive and well. I was humbled to see so many residents in my district, from all walks of life, come together to do what Americans do best—extend a hand of kindness, love,

compassion and generosity, regardless of their own personal situations, to show that we are a county that cares! Thousands of volunteers delivered food to the hungry, blankets for the homeless, and visited seniors at care facilities, albeit from a safe distance, to extend a kind wave, a friendly smile and make sure they were doing well. Utilizing CARES Act funding, I had the opportunity to provide much-needed financial support to businesses and nonprofits within my district. My office developed the Small Business Grant Program that distributed $14.5 million in grants to more than 1,500 small businesses and nonprofits in South County. In addition, I wholeheartedly supported the Safe Dine OC program that provided millions of dollars to help restaurants purchase items such as masks, gloves, PPE, cleaning supplies, and perform site modifications so they THE BARTLETT BULLETIN could reopen safely. By Lisa Bartlett To help our most vulnerable through these difficult times, my office created a Nutrition Gap Program and partnered with 211 Orange County, Second Harvest Food Bank and Ruby’s Diner to provide more than 95,000 food boxes and 80,000 prepared meals to seniors, disabled individuals, veterans and others in need. For those stricken with COVID-19, Orange County’s finest doctors, nurses,

first responders, and thousands of health care providers worked day and night to care for patients, and comforted those who lost a loved one, all at great personal risk to themselves and their families. Throughout history, and despite our many differences, we have demonstrated repeatedly that there is more that unites us than divides us. Love of family and friends and taking care of others in a time of need is undoubtedly one of our greatest strengths and a quality that unites us all. With the development and deployment of a vaccine, I am optimistic that it is the beginning of the end for COVID-19, and I have a renewed sense of hope that Orange County will come back healthier and stronger than before. And so, as we close the book on 2020 and look toward 2021, we look forward to a brighter and better future for all Orange County residents. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support and to let you know that it is an honor and a privilege to represent and serve you in the Fabulous Fifth District. I wish you and yours joy and goodwill during the Holiday Season and a healthy and prosperous New Year! Lisa Bartlett sits on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, representing the 5th District. She was reelected in 2018.SC

was appropriate and that I hope it did not wreck her day. In the other instance, I did not get involved, because it was an unmasked man who was yelling, and it only would have escalated his bad behavior. I did call the store and chatted with the human resources person to let her know her employees were above-board, and if the angry gentleman filed a complaint, it was unwarranted. Both instances were regarding merchandise and not wearing masks. I am writing this, because I wish to support all of the people who are still coming to work and dealing with stressed-out, angry customers. Next time you have a store issue, and you are the angry type, I implore you to think about how you would feel if you were the employee being mistreated. Or, if you witness this kind of behavior, a reassurance to the employees does wonders for their psyches. We are so blessed that our retail businesses and employees are there for us, so that we can continue to feed ourselves and purchase items required for basic survival. Please, let’s all have a little more pa-

tience with one another.

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

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

Letters to the Editor LET’S BE KIND TO ONE ANOTHER DENISE ZIVOLICH, San Clemente

San Clemente Times, Vol. 16, Issue 1. The SC Times (sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the Dana Point Times (danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (thecapistranodispatch.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations, photographs or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art, photos or negatives. Copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. San Clemente Times is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at San Clemente, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: San Clemente Times, 34932 Calle Del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624.

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Recently, I witnessed some very inconsiderate behavior at a couple of local businesses while in self-checkout. I will not go into full detail, as you have better things to do with your time than read a treatise here. What I will say is that I have seen store employees treated with disrespect and utter contempt. In both instances, the employees were doing their jobs, and very well, might I add. They also attempted to be respectful to the customers, even though the customers were completely wrong and out of control. In one instance, I did get involved to protect an employee and waited until the customer left. I also stayed behind to let the employee know that her response

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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COVID-19 DAVID DAVIDSON, San Clemente

Dictatorial lockdowns by our nation’s governors are needlessly wiping out the livelihoods of millions of Americans while, at best, delaying the spread of COVID-19. We were initially told, by these same power-drunk officials, that lockdowns were necessary to prevent overwhelming the hospitals. Even when it became apparent that this wasn’t a problem, the lockdowns were extended. We are now browbeat with the same false assertion, and lockdowns are again in place. “Lives are more important than property” goes the mantra endlessly repeated ad nauseam. Meanwhile, according to the UN, about 130 million people could starve (globally) because of these lockdowns. Eighty million children are at risk from traditional diseases (pertussis, polio) because fear of COVID-led parents to forego immunizations. (Cont. on page 8) sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

(Cont. from page 7) Other medical treatments have been delayed or foregone due to fear of COVID-19. Deaths from cancer and diabetes will rise while the quality of life decreases for survivors. Mental health problems have skyrocketed. A June CDC survey found that one in four young adults between 18-24 had seriously considered suicide. Spousal and child abuse have risen as well. Lockdowns have never been used as a means of controlling disease. Traditionally, the sick and vulnerable have been isolated, while the healthy were allowed to continue their lives. If hospitals are at risk of being overwhelmed, rather than destroy the livelihood of millions, efforts should be made to increase beds available rather than arbitrarily demanding restaurants, bars and gyms be closed. It is unconscionable that our San Clemente hospital remains empty while small businesses are told to close. The Javits Center in NYC was built in record time, and Mercy Ships were sent to both NYC and LA. Samaritan’s Purse supplied the needs of hundreds of patients in NYC, Alaska and Italy. Has our governor or the mayors tapped

any of these resources? Until they do, all Americans should vigorously resist these unconstitutional lockdowns.

LACK OF STANDING BILL PRESTRIDGE, San Clemente

Apparently, Rudy Giuliani, Kayleigh McEnany and Donald Trump do not know the meaning of the words “Lack of Standing.” These three continue the charade of “massive voter fraud,” leading to the weakening of our democracy and the dangers our country faces. The Supreme Court and over 50 other courts have said that the bogus lawsuits brought by Trump and other Republicans have a “Lack of Standing,” meaning there is no evidence to their claims. If you want to live in a banana republic, join the Republican Party.

PREVIOUS LETTERS TO THE EDITOR JIM WILLIAMS, San Clemente

From Chris Kramer’s admonition to “reduce our carbon footprint,” Paul Wehrle’s complete dismissal of election fraud, Richard Green’s dissing of OC Sheriff Barnes’ practical approach to PPG

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

hysteria, and finally to Alba Fafaglia’s slam on Trump supporters at a mask-burning gathering, I felt like I was reading an issue of Mother Jones. A veritable flaming liberal festival on the pages of SC Times! Sad to see that even in an otherwise sensible community like San Clemente, all sense of reality appears to be fading fast. It’s going to be a brutal four years—hang onto your wallets and your freedom.

RESPONSE TO SEN. BATES BEN RICH, San Clemente

Let’s really set the record straight when it comes to Sen. Bates and her “alternative facts.” Her claim that she is responsible for awarding state funds to support housing in our community is simply not true. And, unfortunately, we are bound to see her claim credit for just about any resources the state allocates to our community— even if she votes against the funding (she is up for election in two years). Consider her claim that “legislators have a responsibility to ensure the funds are distributed fairly.” This is false. First, the state constitution does not give her the official authority she claims (check for yourself—Article 4). Second,

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she simply does not have the political influence to make or direct anything. Consider the simple fact that the State Senate currently has 30 Democrats and nine Republicans (one seat vacant). Republican Bates could almost meet with her caucus in a telephone booth. Whatever your politics, let’s insist that politicians not use “alternative facts” to mislead the public.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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

NO BEACHSIDE CHAT UNTIL MID-JAN. 2021

There will be no Beachside Chat on Jan. 1. Beachside Chat will resume on Jan 15. The chat is hosted by SC Times Editor Shawn Raymundo every Friday.

sanclementetimes.com

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF

HAVE AN EVENT? Submit it to San Clemente Times by going to sanclementetimes.com, and clicking “Submit an Event” under the “Getting Out” tab.

Thursday | 31 DRIVE-THRU FOOD DISTRIBUTION 2-5 p.m. Several local churches and institutions are hosting this free food distribution event. The line opens at 2 p.m.—first come, first served, while supplies last. Those looking to volunteer can contact the nonprofit organization Love San Clemente by emailing randy@lovesanclemente.com. San Clemente Calvary Chapel, 1031 Calle Recodo, Suite C, San Clemente. NEW YEAR’S EVE SUPER-SAFE SUNSET SAFARI 3-5:30 p.m. Say goodbye to 2020 with a

special 2 ½-hour dolphin and whale “SuperSafe Sunset Safari” aboard the Manute’a on New Year’s Eve. Watch the sun sink below the oceanic horizon for the very last time in 2020 as we salute the New Year. Passengers will enjoy a complimentary champagne or sparkling cider toast. Entry for adults is $65 and $45 for children ages 12 and younger. Capt. Dave’s Dana Point Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari, 24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point. 949.518.0310. dolphinsafari.com.

Sunday | 03 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. D. YODER FAMILY SUNDAYS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Held on the first Sunday of each month, this free event includes activities and a program thematically based on Casa Romantica’s Casa Captivating programs. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente. 949.498.2139. casaromantica.org.

At the Movies: ‘Mank’ Is Mostly for New Film Fans BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

rson Welles’ Citizen Kane is not only reflected on in film courses, but also by Hollywood itself, as plenty of biopics on the picture’s production and backstory have been produced over the years. The latest one, David Fincher’s Mank, is more than two decades in the making and 17 years after the death of its screenwriter (Fincher’s father, Jack). Mank, filmed stunningly in black-andwhile, and with tiny Easter eggs, like artificial reel change marks in the corner of some shots, follows back-and-forth between Hollywood in the early 1930s and a ranch in Victorville, California in 1940. Herman J. Mankiewicz, or Mank as played by Gary Oldman, is a respected and legendary screenwriter near the end of his career, as new wonder boy Welles (Tom Burke) recruits him to help pen the script for his debut film. The future classic is set to be loosely—but clearly—based on real-life newspaper mogul W.R. Hearst (Charles Dance), as well as his mistress, Marion Davies (Amanda Seyfried).

Photo: Courtesy of Netflix

First thing to note about Mank is that it is 100% about Mankiewicz. Welles gets only about five scenes of screen time, and unfortunately for Welles fans, they’re not the most flattering portrayal. The first half of Mank has the typical glamorization we usually get with biopics set in the old Hollywood era, and it feels a bit indulgent at times. Whenever we get screen portrayals of the Hearst/Davies relationship, I’m always a little skeptical— as I am a longtime fan of Davies—since most just play her as the dumb blonde cliché. But to my surprise, both Seyfried and Fincher do her justice this time around, and it might be my favorite performance from Seyfried to date. As a whole, I think Mank fits the definition of “fine.” Technologically, it looks good and the actors are great, but the movie would probably do more for someone who isn’t burned out on all things Citizen Kane, like I am. SC

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

HOW MUCH DIFFERENT WAS 2005?

CoastLines by Fred Swegles

What Was It Like 5 Years Ago?

As a bonus in 2015, I invited readers a look back at where San Clemente had been a decade earlier, in 2005. Join me here as we peek back at what is now 15 years ago, 2005: No burger: Debate over traffic led the city council to vote, 3-2, to reject In-N-Out Burger’s plan for an eatery at 620 Avenida Pico, now Starbucks.

very December, a year-end ritual in the San Clemente Times takes a look back at the previous 12 months. This year, we reviewed 2020 last week, on Dec. 24. So, to add a little extra historical perspective, let’s hop into our time machine and travel back five years to 2015. If you were here then, I suspect your reaction to most of the items you’ll read here will be this: Was that really five years ago? It won’t seem like it. But what a year it was, I think you’ll agree. Over the past year, I’ve put together columns revisiting San Clemente in COASTLINES 1930, 1970 and 1985, invitBy Fred Swegles ing readers to consider how some things have changed, while others maybe not. Here’s a collection of retrospective news items that I wrote at the end of 2015, five years ago, in the Sun Post News. Yes, it really has been five years.

SOME 2015 HEADLINES Radioactive: Public debate raged throughout the year over Southern California Edison’s storage of nuclear waste at the shuttered San Onofre power plant. Shopping center: The Outlets at San Clemente opened, 18 years after the city had recruited a developer to design and build a Spanish-motif regional retail center. New linkage: A new coastal stretch of Avenida Vista Hermosa opened, from I-5 to Avenida Pico near North Beach. New trails: The public began hiking four miles of new public trails that were built as part of development of the Sea Summit residential community. A trail idea: The city launched a plan to extend the San Clemente Coastal Trail south from Calafia Beach to a San Clemente State Beach railroad underpass. Horn solution: The Federal Railroad Administration approved a plan to silence the routine sounding of train horns along the beach trail by putting in stationary horns and other safety accessories at seven rail crossings.

Park Semper Fi: Festivities in the Pier Bowl drew some 2,000 people to celebrate the unveiling of the Heritage of San Clemente Foundation’s $200,000 Marine Monument. Beach trail: Construction began on an $11 million San Clemente Coastal Trail, linking North Beach to Calafia Beach. Schools: Protests from parents challenged whether Talega students or Capistrano Beach students should be moved to a new high school in San Juan Capistrano instead of staying at San Clemente High. This Sun Post News clipping shows a retrospective Fred Swegles wrote in 2015. How many items do you remember? Photo: Fred Swegles

I-5 expansion: Caltrans and the Orange County Transportation Authority began a widening of Avenida Pico and its I-5 undercrossing as part of a $230 million freeway widening.

Halt, after the Capistrano Unified School District had yanked him from campus. Facing community pressure, CUSD let him participate in graduation. He promptly was hired as principal of Estancia High in Costa Mesa.

Beach parking: A local resident’s lawsuit wiped out San Clemente’s $10.5 million beach parking fund, ordering refunds to homeowners who had paid into the fund over 25 years without seeing major results.

Local control: A group of parents unhappy with CUSD united to try to form a San Clemente school district.

Beach club: The city began a $4.4 million renovation of the Ole Hanson Beach Club. Ocean cleanup: Poche Beach got high marks for ocean cleanliness, ending years of statewide notoriety. Whether the pollution solution had been fake coyotes, live falcons, stormwater filtration or water conservation, Poche was no longer frequented by seagulls, the suspected culprit for the pollution. Enhancement: Community donations enabled the city to add a $570,000 sensory garden to Courtney’s SandCastle, the city’s universal-access playground. No-go: Three residents convinced the Coastal Commission to reject the city’s plan for a new North Beach parking lot. Commissioners preferred a design that the residents had submitted. City council subsequently shelved the project. Hotspot: A national “Best of/Worst of” trending organization deemed San Clemente the 16th-best place in the U.S. to start a restaurant. Principal dismissed: The town rallied around San Clemente High Principal Mike

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

New library: The county opened an expanded San Clemente Library after a yearlong $2.4 million renovation. Oops: The opening of a new $535,000 beach bathroom at the pier drew notoriety, after word got around that the design inadvertently offered outsiders a peekaboo into the dressing rooms. Sober living homes: Complaints about rehab homes proliferating in residential neighborhoods led the city council to impose a freeze and file lawsuits to try to address neighbors’ grievances. Trolley: The city took steps to apply for OCTA grant funds to start a summer trolley service. Emergency room: The city council took initial steps to rezone Saddleback Memorial Medical Center San Clemente, trying to force it to remain a hospital with an emergency room. Major facelift: New owners of a rundown shopping center that had been anchored by Kmart began undertaking a major redesign and upgrade for that part of town.

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Crosswalks: The city introduced flashing lights in two downtown El Camino Real crosswalks, only to learn that they weren’t a cure-all. Two pedestrians were reported hit. New road: The proposed alignment for Avenida La Pata to extend from Talega to Ortega Highway proved contentious. Sand: The city imported 5,000 cubic yards of sand from the Santa Ana River bed to replenish North Beach. The sand abundantly restored the eroded beach but drew criticism because it was grainy and included small rocks. Proposed deal: The owner of Pacific Golf and Country Club unveiled a plan to rescue the 27-hole golf course from bankruptcy by shrinking it to 18 holes and building more than 380 homes. In return, the owner offered to pay the city’s $6 million shortfall to build a municipal aquatics center. The private golf course had been built in a development’s buffer zone designated as open space. Shuttered landmark: Terry Hirchag submitted plans to raze the historic Miramar Theatre and build a combination restaurant, coffee house, stores, offices and condominiums, featuring a replica of the Miramar’s tower. Fred Swegles is a longtime San Clemente resident with five decades of reporting experience in the city. Fred can be reached at fswegles@picketfencemedia.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com. The San Clemente Times and Picket Fence Media do not publish content that is defamatory.

sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

How Important Is Compatibility in Relationships?

arie, 68 and divorced, is puzzled. She emailed: “Is compatibility the basic foundation when meeting someone? So many people are involved in non-compatible relationships where passion and emotion are missing.” “Why am I so confused about this? I need clarity,” Marie concluded. I asked other readers who have recently written to me how they feel about the importance of compatibility in relationships. Kay emailed: “I am far beyond 50, however, I am in excellent health and am full of energy, and have a good sense of humor! I am blessed that my dad taught me about cars, guns, and sports. This enables me to get along with men, as we have much in common.” “Compatibility is important,” she added. “Couples can have interON LIFE AND ests that are different LOVE AFTER 50 … but I find life calm By Tom Blake and peaceful and yet exhilarating when two people enjoy similar things and both love the same way.” Susan said, “Compatibility must be present but also compassion and understanding. Two people are not compatible because they like the same things all the time. They are compatible because they have many qualities that encourage understanding, patience, compassion, desirability, attraction, and more. “If you enjoy home-cooked meals and neither of you likes to cook, then you are probably not going to be compatible after the newness of the relationship wears off.” Althea emailed: “Compatibility is important, especially for people 60-plus. When

you are older and have already developed all your values, likes, and dislikes, quirks, habits, etc., you need and want someone who shares those things. “I get excited initially when I see a man on a dating site who grew up in New England where I’m from, or loves dogs, only to discover some deal breakers: like he lives a seven-hour drive away, is a smoker, or is politically opposite.” Two Orange County men offered their opinions on compatibility in relationships. Wayne said, “Like-mindedness is very important in a healthy relationship. As we go through the various stages of life (youth, marriage(s), building a career, raising a family, etc.), we deal with many issues including resolving lots of conflicts. “At 73, I now prefer a relatively stressfree, drama-free life. Why not enjoy the final chapters of one’s life with both friends and loved ones who share similar values and interests? “Basic (not perfect) compatibility adds both longevity and quality to one’s life.” And Tom shared: “I met Linda online— Our Time—and clicked on the first wine meetup. We’ve been dating exclusively since June 2019. “I became a widower in 2005, and she was widowed in 2015. “Widows and widowers, if they can get over their loss, are comfortable knowing someone already has—and a new person can—rekindle their love of life. They are not trying to duplicate the past, but know the traits that excite them and embrace reality. “Linda is a fantastic cook, and I’m a diligent cleaner-upper so we work together on meals and then enjoy Netflix or a TV sporting event.

Contributor: San Clemente Historical Society

FROM THE ARCHIVES The Ole Hanson Beach Club, as it

appeared in the 1930s. It was a gift to the community from San Clemente founder Ole Hanson. Every week, the San Clemente Times will showcase a historical photo from around the city. If you have a photo you would like to submit for consideration, send the photo, your name for credit as well as the date and location of the photo to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

“Compatibility is very important. I don’t think ‘opposites attract’ is worth the time to make it a success. The willingness to work together shows mutual caring for each other. Linda found gardening to be enjoyable working with me. Be a giver more than a taker.” Hopefully, the comments from the five above readers will clear up Marie’s confusion about compatibility in relationships. It’s imperative in relationships, particularly during this pandemic when most of us are cooped up together under one roof. But other qualities need to be present as

Sudoku

Adoptable Pet of the Week: Sarah

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 Last week’s solution:

SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

arah is a 5-month-old cutie who just can’t wait to meet you. When she’s not snuggling with the other kittens, Sarah keeps herself entertained by birdwatching or batting around her favorite toys. Sarah’s lovable personality makes her a great fit in just about any home. If you are interested in adopting Sarah, please visit petprojectfoundation.org to download an adoption application form. Completed forms can be emailed to ani-

well—physical attraction, caring, kindness, and love. All are important. Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at findingloveafter50.com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC

Sarah. Photo: Courtesy of San Clemente/Dana Point Animal Shelter

malservices@scdpanimalshelter.org, and you will be contacted about making an interaction appointment. SC

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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See the solution in next week’s issue.

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SC San Clemente

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206590590 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SOURCES UNLIMITED 647 CAMINO DE LOS MARES, #108-78 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 Full Name of Registrant(s): BOB IPEMA 2826 CALLE GUADALAJARA SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 This business is conducted by an Individual The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a /s/BOB IPEMA This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 12/09/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times December 31, 2020, January 7, 14, 21 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 01174632

BYU freshman tight end Isaac Rex, a 2017 SCHS graduate, caught five passes for 96 yards and two touchdowns in the Boca Raton Bowl on Dec. 22. Photo: BYU Photo

Scoreboard BY ZACH CAVANAGH, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Our City Scoreboard keeps you updated on all of the local San Clemente youth and community team accomplishments and special individual performances of the week. Email zcavanagh@picketfencemedia.com for submission.

Rex Punctuates Breakout Season in Boca Raton Bowl San Clemente alumnus Isaac Rex has made a name for himself in his freshman football season at Brigham Young University, and the tight end closed out his 2020 season at the top of national leaderboards with an explosive Boca Raton Bowl on Dec. 22. Rex, a 2017 SCHS graduate, caught five passes for 96 yards, including two highlight-reel touchdown receptions, as No. 16 BYU rolled over UCF, 49-23. The Cougars finished their season 10-1. Rex’s first touchdown catch came on the end of a sweep-right, reverse-left, flea-flicker pass down the right sideline for a wideopen run to the end zone for the 36-yard score. Rex was similarly untouched for his second score on a 27-yard catch and run straight up the seam. Rex brought his season totals to 37 receptions for 429 yards and 12 touchdowns. Those 12 touchdowns have Rex currently tied for third in the nation in touchdown receptions and tied for first in touchdown receptions by tight ends. Rex is tied with Arkansas State wide receiver Jonathan Adams Jr. and Florida tight end Kyle Pitts. Adams’ season is over, but Pitts and the No. 7 Gators took

on No. 6 Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl on Wednesday, Dec. 30. Results were not available as of press time. Each of Rex’s marks in the Boca Raton bowl either tied for season-highs (catches and touchdowns) or established seasonhighs (yards). Rex had four five-reception games and five two-TD games this season. Rex’s previous yardage high was 66 yards in another five-reception, two-TD game against Texas State on Oct. 24.

Darnold, Jets Earn First Wins of the Season While New York Jets fans may be lamenting losing out on the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft and the probable selection of Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence, their current QB and the rest of the Jets roster are relishing their first two wins of the season in back-to-back fashion. After a 0-13 start to the season, San Clemente alumnus Sam Darnold won his professional return to Southern California, as the Jets held on for a 23-20 win over the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 20 in Inglewood, and New York followed that up with a win over the COVID-depleted Cleveland Browns, 23-16, on Dec. 27. Against the Rams, Darnold completed 22 of 31 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown. Against the Browns, Darnold completed 16 of 32 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns. Darnold has not thrown an interception in three consecutive games. With New York locked into the No. 2 slot in the NFL Draft, Darnold and the Jets close out their season against the out-ofthe-playoffs New England Patriots on the road on Sunday, Jan. 3. SC

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

To All Interested Persons: Daniela Guadalupe Torres has filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Daniela Guadalupe Torres PROPOSED NAME A. Daniela Jane Torres The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of 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 heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing Date: 02/02/2021 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept.: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times. Date: December 15, 2020 JUDGE WALTER P SCHWARM, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times, Dec 31, 2020, January 7, 14, 21, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE LIEN SALE 1/11/21 10AM AT 1335 N SANTIAGO ST, SANTA ANA 08 BMW LIC# 7UVX713 VIN# 5UXFE43518L027324 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206591254 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: SOUTH SEAS AQUARIUM SERVICE 5317 CAMINO BOSQUECILLO SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 Full Name of Registrant(s): PARSONS INVESTMENT GROUP LLC 5317 CAMINO BOSQUECILLO SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673 This business is conducted by a CA Limited Liabil-

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ity Company The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: n/a /s/PARSONS INVESTMENT GROUP LLC, BRUCE ALAN PARSONS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 12/09/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times December 24, 31, 2020, January 7, 14, 2021 PUBLIC NOTICE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT 20206589978 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: THE POST STOP SAN CLEMENTE 647 CAMINO DE LOS MARES SUITE #108 SAN CLEMENTE, CA 92673-2806 Full Name of Registrant(s): JULIE ANN MOFFATT 23674 POMELO ROAD CORONA, CA 92883 DANIEL SCOTT MOFFATT 23674 POMELO ROAD CORONA, CA 92883 This business is conducted by a Married Couple The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 11/17/20 /s/JULIE MOFFATT This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Orange County on 11/18/2020. Published in: San Clemente Times Dec 10, 17, 24, 31, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE Order to Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 01172067 To All Interested Persons: Tuong Van Thi Nguyen has filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME A. Tuong Van Thi Nguyen PROPOSED NAME A. Van Nguyen Gebhardt The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court of 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 heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objective is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING Date: 01/19/2021 Time: 08:30 a.m. Dept: D100 Window: 44. The address of the court is Central Justice Center, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: San Clemente Times Date: November 25, 2020 JUDGE WALTER P. SCHWARM, Judge of the Superior Court Published: San Clemente Times, December 10, 17, 24, 31, 2020.

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San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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SC SC SURF San Clemente

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

12 Moments in Surf That Made 2020

GROM OF THE WEEK

ALL THE GROMS

BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

ow, we made it to the end of 2020—the year that seemed as if it would never end. What a ride it’s been. If you’re like me, for the last bunch of months, one day seems to just blend into another, and time almost stood still. Looking back on the year in surf, it all started so innocently before things got weird. In case you forgot, here are some of the biggest stories from the year that kept kicking and screaming all the way to the end.

January

The year started off with earthshaking surf industry news, as Nike agreed to sell Hurley to Blue Star Alliance. The business of surf has taken some serious hits over the past few years, but at the time, this seemed like especially big news. Staff was laid off and surfers were clipped from the team. If we only had a better idea of what was coming down the line.

February

It was a good start to the competitive season, as San Clemente’s own, 14-yearold Sawyer Lindblad, won the WSL’s SLO CAL Open at Pismo Beach. Her first WSL Qualifying Series win, it was also one of the few contests that the league would run all year long.

March

Friday the 13th—that’s when my life changed. I’d been over at Dane Gudauskas’ house for a Positive Vibe Warrior meeting. When it was over, I went to Target—to buy toilet paper like the rest of the world—and that’s when the whole doomsday thing hit me. Friday the 13th, what a cruel twist of fate.

April

On April 8, San Clemente beaches were closed. It didn’t go over well. The initial closure lasted two weeks, and when they reopened, residents were only allowed to exercise on the beach and surf.

May

If there was a bright spot in May, it was probably the bioluminescence in the water. Forgetting for a hot minute about the lockdown, families came down to the beach at night like it was the Fourth of July—but the fireworks were in the ocean instead of the sky.

Max Beyer. Photo: Courtesy of Max Beyer/PVW BY JAKE HOWARD, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

Pictured is a photo by Santa Barbara’s Paul Greene, winner of this year’s Follow the Light photo contest. Photo: Courtesy of Paul Greene

June

As businesses in the area began to reopen for one of the weirder summers in memory, an amazing thing happened: surfboard and wetsuit sales went through the roof. If there’s been a silver lining to the age of COVID-19 around here, it’s been the resurgence in surfboard sales and how slammed all the shapers and glassers have been.

the WSL announced a number of sweeping changes. The big one for us locals is the newly created WSL Finals, which will feature the top five men and top five women in the world (based on their year-end ratings) in a one-day surf-off, with the winner taking the world title. The event will take place at Lower Trestles this coming September.

July

November

The California Coastal Commission approved a nuclear waste monitoring program at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station. The CCC’s unanimous decision essentially allows Southern California Edison to continue storing spent fuel through 2035.

August

The SoCal PaddleDown for Cancer Relay hit the California coast. A 250-mile ocean paddle that raises awareness about the dangers of sun exposure, the event was taken on by lifeguards from more than 25 agencies and began over Memorial Day weekend at El Refugio State Beach north of Santa Barbara and ended at Imperial Beach in San Diego.

September

This year, the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center’s Follow the Light Awards hosted a digital awards ceremony celebrating the works of aspiring surf photographers from around the world. With more than 75 submissions, the top honors went to Santa Barbara’s Paul Greene. The kid has the eye of a hawk; look out for his work in the years to come.

October

After the world tour season was canceled,

San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

A string of late-season south swells and early-season northwest pulses made for a number of fun days, as the water temps dipped and the crowds thinned out a bit.

December

This time of year, my attention always turns to Hawaii. There have been a bunch of good swells at Pipeline, and some of the local boys have been scoring. Griffin Colapinto has been on fire over there, and dad Mitch has even been getting in the water and snapping some photos. Hopefully, by this time next year, I’ll be writing this from the beach on the North Shore and will have more good news to report. Aloha and happy 2021. Jake Howard is local surfer and freelance writer who lives in San Clemente. A former editor at Surfer Magazine, The Surfer’s Journal and ESPN, today he writes for a number of publications, including the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times, Surfline and the World Surf League. He also works with philanthropic organizations such as the Surfing Heritage and Culture Center and the Positive Vibe Warriors Foundation. SC

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o all the groms out there who kept the stoke level high this year and made the absolute most out of some challenging days, the next set wave is all yours. Every week in this space, we get to celebrate the accomplishments of one grom or another from San Clemente or Dana Point, but for this week’s installment, it seems only fitting to throw out big shakas to all the kids, young and old, who kept surfing, kept helping their families stay healthy and happy, and made the most of the situations in which we’ve found ourselves. From schools shutting down, to beaches closing and our favorite contests getting put on ice for the summer, you’ve made a lot of sacrifices and you’ve experienced a moment that can only be considered historic. But every time I saw groms down at the beach, they were stoked out of their minds to be in the water. Surfing’s good like that. Whether you’re the youngest grom just floating out there with the tide or a salty old man, we’re lucky to be able to ride waves together and enjoy the ocean. Here’s to many more waves in the New Year! SC

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 58-60 Degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: 3-6 Thursday: West/northwest swell mix sets up waistshoulder high surf, (3-4’). Light+ to moderate southeast winds in the morning, turn to lighter westerly flow for the afternoon. Outlook: On Friday, more West/northwest swell fills in, for waves running waist-shoulder-head high, (3-4-5’). Light offshore winds in the morning, turn to a moderate westerly sea breeze for the afternoon on Friday. Saturday’s surf rises as West/northwest swell strengthens into the shoulder high to a foot+ overhead range, (4-6’+), then Sunday’s waves peak at head high to a few feet overhead, (5-7’) as the swell tops out. Light offshore morning winds are followed by light+ afternoon onshores on Saturday and Sunday.

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San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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San Clemente Times December 31, 2020-January 6, 2021

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