San Clemente Times

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Reaching for the Stars? Casa Romantica Opens Space Exhibit

SCHS Auto Tech Students Advance to National Contest

Fire Update: Neighbors Rally for Fire Victims

GETTING OUT/PAGE 10

SC LIVING/PAGE 14

EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

J A N U A RY 2 7– F E B R U A RY 2 , 2 0 1 1

LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

VOLUME 6, ISSUE 4

Best of San Clemente More than 3,000 votes were tallied in our 5th Annual Ole Awards, now here are the results S P E C I A L 2 0 - PAG E I N S E R T

Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar epitomizes San Clemente. Readers of the SC Times picked the establishment for the People’s Choice Golden Ole Awards in seven categories this year.

See our special 20-page insert for all the top picks of 2010. Photo by Jasmine Smith

www.sanclementetimes.com

Eye on SC

1

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SC S a n C le m e n te

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO Capistrano Animal Rescue Effort (CARE), which has rescued and adopted more than 1,200 abandoned cats and dogs in the past decade, has been given the boot by PetSmart, which says the nonprofit is not generating enough adoption numbers for its store and is “not compatible with a retail environment.” For past 9 years, the allvolunteer CARE has showcased its rescued cats to potential families at the cattery inside PetSmart on Doheny Park Road in San Juan Capistrano. Earlier this month, CARE was told that it no longer adopts out enough animals, needs to hold more “Adoption Day” store events, and needs to generate more media, among other issues. To find out more about CARE, call 949-240-1735 or visit www.capoanimalrescue.com —Jonathan Volzke

DANA POINT

News

Next Door W hat ’s goin g on in our n e ig h b oring towns

On January 24 the city red-tagged and closed three medical marijuana dispensaries citing lack of or invalid Certificates of Occupancy and fire/ life safety issues at the facilities. City Attorney Patrick Munoz confirmed that all three businesses—Point Alternative Care, Holistic Health Collective and Beach Cities Collective—were sent letters a few weeks ago, issued by the city, informing each that they had until January 20 to correct the municipal code violations. None of the dispensaries complied and officials shut off the utilities and closed all three by action of the city’s Building and Safety Division. Representatives from the collectives are calling the city’s actions aggressive and illegal and all are vowing to file lawsuits. The Orange County Sheriff’s Department, as part of an unrelated criminal investigation, served a search warrant at Point Alternative Care last Friday.

San Clemente’s Top 5 Hottest Topics

What’s Up With...

1

…Measure A, Registering to Vote and Political Signs?

THE LATEST: The election on Measure A comes in less than six weeks, meaning potential voters have until Tuesday, February 22 to register and be eligible to go to the polls.

Residents must re-register after a permanent move, a name change or a switch of political parties.

The March 8 Special Municipal Election will decide the fate of the LAB-Playa Del Norte Project, a nearly 50,000-square-foot commercial development that will provide space for restaurants, offices and shops on the Triangle Site currently used primarily for public parking. The development will also extend into two other nearby plots owned by the city—the Marblehead site and a lot that runs next to El Camino Real.

Voters weighed in first in 2008 with a non-binding referendum on the project. They approved Measure W by 53.4 percent of the vote.

As of this week, San Clemente boasted 41,065 registered voters, according to information from City Clerk Joanne Baade.

The election has heated up in recent weeks with backers on both sides of the measure claiming theft and vandalism of their signs.

Baade noted that the temporary political signs are “prohibited on, within or over any public street, right-of-way or public property.”

Regardless of where they are staked and posted, political signs may only be removed authorized officials, she said by e-mail.

Culprits can be charged with a misdemeanor or cited through the city’s administration fine process.

To report illegally placed signs, call the City Clerk’s office at 949.361.8345.

“City staff will remove any signs that are found to be in violation of the City’s Municipal Code in a fair and impartial basis,” Baade wrote.

WHAT’S NEXT: Registration may be done online at www.ocvote.com or by requesting a registration form be mailed by San Clemente City Clerk’s Office at 949.361.8200. Residents may also fill out their registration forms at City Hall during regular business hours. www.sanclementetimes.com

FIND OUT MORE: Visit Orange County’s online voter registration website at www.ocvote.com.

—Stacie N. Galang

2

…With the Restaurant Space at the Former Gordon James?

THE LATEST: A lease was signed earlier this month between the property owner at 110 North El Camino Real and restaurateur Nick Nickoloff.

Nickoloff presently runs two eateries, Nick’s San Clemente and Nick’s Laguna Beach. His latest venture, South of Nick’s, is slated to open in the former Gordon James location some time this summer. While it’s very early in the planning process, Nickoloff expected the restaurant to offer what he called California-Mexican fare when it opens this summer.

“It’s very new,” he said. “We don’t have our menu done yet.”

The popular Gordon James Restaurant shut its doors for good last summer after seven years downtown. At the time, the owners Gordon and Penny Rose said the economy was the primary factor in their decision to close.

Nickoloff of NickCo Hospitality Group said his latest concept was originally planned for a location six doors down from the company’s Laguna Beach location, but the lease never materialized, Nickoloff said.

Instead, they transferred the idea to San Clemente.

The owner said he has taken inspiration from the San Clemente building’s Spanish architecture, the curved archways and exposed wooden beams.

Customers can expect similar price points to those at his current San Clemente location, Nickoloff said. The menu will feature smaller plates, he noted.

The restaurateur said his first eatery has been very well received in the city.

“We have a great following,” he said. “It’s turned out to be a great location for us.”

His businesses have done well despite a down economy by working hard, staying humble and offering a competitive price point, he said.

“We are confident it will be a good

Firefighters with the Orange County Fire Authority worked to put out the two-alarm blaze from the roof of 242 West El Portal Friday afternoon. The fire has since been ruled accidental and started by an electrical problem in the garage.

Photo by Stacie N. Galang

location for us,” Nickoloff said. “We have very fresh and high-end ingredients. A lot of people come into our building first expecting to pay a lot. They are shocked when they look at the menu and see it’s not an expensive restaurant.”

WHAT’S NEXT: South of Nick’s is expected to open Summer 2011.

FIND OUT MORE: For more updates, check our website www.sanclementetimes.com —SNG

3

…the Fire on West El Portal and Neighbors Work to Pitch in?

THE LATEST: A swift-moving, two-alarm blaze at 242 West El Portal the afternoon of January 21 ravaged the four-unit building and displaced six adults, two children and one iguana.

The fire caused $550,000 in damage to the building and two cars parked in the driveway. The blaze was ruled accidental, caused by an electrical problem in the garage, according to Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Greg McKeown.

The captain said the building was not outfitted with a sprinkler system, and

smoke alarms were “were not installed and maintained to code requirements.” It was unclear whether the property owner would be cited.

Seven fire engines and three trucks — loaded with some 40 firefighters — responded to the blaze, said OCFA Battalion Chief Kris Concepcion.

No one was injured in the fire which broke out shortly after 1 p.m., but residents home at the time were forced to rush from the building with the barest of belongings.

Police received reports Sunday night of looting at the West El Portal building.

WHAT’S NEXT: Neighbors have rallied to help the fire victims, creating a Facebook page with information on direct donations. They have also organized a fundraiser at Max Berg Park Saturday, January 29 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and Sunday, January 30 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Organizers are soliciting donations for the raffle. They are also accepting store gift cards to give directly to fire victims. Organizers will hold their drawing Sunday at 4 p.m.

FIND OUT MORE: To find out more about the fundraisers at Max Berg Park contact Marla Diaz at surfnyogamarla@gmail.com.

For information about donating through the Facebook page, see http://bit.ly/etHl6f.

— SNG (Cont. on page 4)

January 27–February 2, 2011 • San Clemente Times • Page 3

Eye on SC (Cont. from page 3) After the landslide behind Via Ballena homes January 6, four homes were redtagged, meaning residents were forced to leave over safety concern with their buildings. The two homes next them have since been under watch.

Cameron said this week that the city has focused its attention on repairs to the 18inch diameter storm drain sheered off when the land gave way. The cause of the slope failure has not yet been determined.

WHAT’S NEXT: The city has no immediate plans for additional work in the area, Cameron said. The city engineer did say he has been in talks with the Shorecliffs Golf Course to drain the water that had pooled up in the canyon behind the Via Ballena homes and course property. He said the golf course officials are in the process of obtaining a large pump to transfer the collected water out of the area.

FIND OUT MORE: Check out our website for more updates at www.sanclementetimes. com.

— SNG Contractors are lowered by crane into the canyon behind Via Ballena to complete work on the 18-inch storm drain severed in the landslide earlier this month. Courtesy photo

4

…City Work Near the Red-tagged Homes on Via Ballena?

THE LATEST: A contractor hired by the city finished repairs this weekend of the severed storm drain behind the latest redtagged homes on Via Ballena, said to City Engineer Bill Cameron.

The $70,000 in work reconnected the

City and Community Calendar Thursday, Jan 27 BNI Meeting 8 a.m.-9:30 a.m. Meeting every Thursday at the Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club. 200 Avenida La Pata, San Clemente, www.bellacollinagolf. com.

Preschool Storytime 10:30 a.m. Stories for youngsters ages 3-5 at the library; sign-ups required. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org

Friday, Jan 28 Seniors’ Birthday Celebration 12 p.m. Cake and entertainment at the Senior Center. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org.

Beach Club Party for Middle School Students 7 p.m.-9 p.m. An evening of dancing, fun and games for sixth- to eighth-graders at Ole Hanson Beach Club. Snacks and beverages available for a fee. School dress codes enforced.

Must show Student ID. 100 N. Avenida Pico, 949.361.8264, www.san-clemente.org.

sewer drain, extended it down the slope and out into the canyon below, he said.

Cameron described the work as “fairly difficult.” Contractors connected 400 feet of pipe and used a massive crane to lower it into the area. Workers had to weld the pipe from a cage hanging from the crane.

On Monday, Cameron and other city officials met with some 35 residents of the Shorecliffs neighborhood at the city’s Calle Negocio offices to discuss the repairs and take questions. The meeting lasted nearly two hours, the city engineer said.

Saturday, Jan 29 They Came From Outer Space 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Grand Opening event for Casa Romantica’s new NASA Space Exploration Exhibit featuring live music, food, activities and more. Exhibit includes historical stories, space food, photos, equipment and more. Adults $5.

Kids 12 and under $3. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Crab Feast & Auction 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Forster Ranch Education Foundation hosts its first-ever fundraising crab feast and auction at the Casino with dinner, music, dancing and live & silent auctions. Tickets $60 each, $600 per table for 10. 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.661.1427, Forsterranchedufoundation.com.

Sunday, Jan 30 Mushroom Walk 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Search for fungi at The Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy and learn about it from an expert. Adults $10, kids $5, members free. More info: 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

Monday, Jan 31 Free Help With Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Anger 10:45 a.m. Recovery International provides tools and practice in changing thinking habits so individuals can gain personal

Page 4 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

5

…Smart Meters?

THE LATEST: Your electrical meter is about to get much smarter.

Between now and March, San Diego Gas & Electric will be replacing the old spinning-dial electrical meters with solidstate meters that will wirelessly transmit information about your electrical use back to SDG&E. SDG&E says the system will make the utility more efficient, eliminating the need for human meter-readers (who are being

control over distressing emotions and improve general well-being. Free. El Toro Library, 24672 Raymond Way, Lake Forest, 949.458.2504, www.lowselfhelpsystems.org.

retrained for other jobs at SDG&E) as well as automatically notifying SDG&E when an outage occurs.

The system, already in place in San Diego, will also allow utility workers to quickly identify the parameters of a problem and even route electricity around it remotely. Additionally, starting and stopping service will be done from the SDG&E offices, without requiring a home visit.

Residents will know when their meters have been changed because it will cause a brief power outage—meaning clocks and other electronic equipment will need to be reset. The SDG&E installer will have identification and knock on each resident’s door before changing the meter, but does not need to enter the home. The change is made at the meter and takes between five and 15 minutes to complete, SDG&E officials said.

Once in place, residents can track their electrical usage as the meter display scrolls through various information. The numeral 10 is current usage, so residents can write down that number at any given time, then subtract that from a future number to determine electrical use. Customers can also sign up for the free Google “Powermeter” tool to track their usage by computer at myaccount. sdge.com.

WHAT’S NEXT: Installations are expected to be finished in March.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sdge.com/smartmeter —Jonathan Volzke

Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about?

Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Community Center. Free. RSVP: BDubois@sanjuancapistrano.org. 25925 Camino Del Avion, www.sanjuancapistrano.org.

Library After-School Club Spanish Conversation 11 a.m. Meet at Café Calypso for coffee and conversation. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.9803.

3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Club for kids 5 and older with activities and much more at the library.

242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org

German Speaking Group

Toastmasters

2 p.m.–4p.m. Every Monday at Café Calypso.

114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8436.

Tuesday, Feb 1

7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking in a friendly and supportive atmosphere at the library, 242 Ave. Del Mar, 949.361.8463, www.sanclemente.freetoasthost.net.

SC Sunrise Rotary Club

Wednesday, Feb 2

7:15 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Heritage Grille at the Talega Golf Club, 990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.0663, www.scsunriserotary.org.

Final exams

Nance Bear’s Card Class 10 a.m. Seniors can make greeting cards at the Senior Center; supplies provided. RSVP; class size limited. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org.

Capo Unified high school students start finals; the semester ends on Friday. www.capousd. org.

Kiwanis Meeting 12 p.m. The local Kiwanis Club meets at Carrows. 620 Avenida Pico, 949.290.8729, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

Toddlertime 10:30 a.m. Stories and learning activities for kids ages 2-3 with adult participation at the library; sign-ups required. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.san-clemente.org.

SC Rotary Club 12 p.m. Irons in the Fire, 150 Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.3619, www.sanclementerotary.org.

French Conversation Club H2O for HOA’s: Water Workshop 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Forum on water efficiency and runoff reduction in the tri-cities area at the SJC

2 p.m.–4 p.m. Come and chat at Cafe Calypso every Wednesday; no fees, no registration.

114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.493.5228. www.sanclementetimes.com

Eye on SC

News Bites

—Compiled by Stacie N. Galang

Props, Recognitions and Morsels of Info During February, the San Clemente-Dana Point Animal Shelter, is celebrating the spirit of Valentine’s Day with a program called “Adopt Your True Love.”

From February 1 through February 28 adoption rates will be dropped to $65 for dogs, $50 for cats and $20 for rabbits. Please opt to adopt. The shelter is located at 221 Avenida Fabricante in San Clemente. For more information, please call 949.492.1617.

u

Lauren “Laurie” McGarry of San Clemente Police Services on January 24 received the American Legion Medal of Merit from the Saddleback Valley chapter.

McGarry began her career with San Clemente Police Department in 1975 as a Police Cadet. Since then she has served as a reserve police officer, a full-time police officer, and after the birth of her daughter, a Community Services Officer processing property and evidence. In 1995, she became a full-time Office Specialist with San Clemente Police Services.

In 2001, McGarry was recognized as San Clemente Police Service’s Civilian Employee of the Lauren “Laurie” McGarry and San Clemente Police Services Sgt. Scott Kennedy at the ceremony in Year. She was praised then for ability to quickly Mission Viejo. Photo by Jonathan Volzke learn the new Records Management System (RMS) that was implemented departmentwide. She was commended for being the driving force in having all the local cases entered into the system.

McGarry is currently San Clemente’s senior office specialist in Police Services Records Division. Her duties include data input, answering incoming phone calls, assisting the public at the front counter, filing, information searches, reviewing on-line crime reports, copying and faxing in-daily custody paper work, data entry, statistics, finger printing citizens, citation signoffs, and numerous other miscellaneous assignments.

Department officials say McGarry is a shining example of one who understands the concept of “Team Player” who comes to work every day on time and prepared to do her job. With her wealth of experience as a police officer, property and evidence officer, C.S.O., and records clerk, she has done just about everything there is to do at the station.

But it’s the little things that count: Officials said perhaps McGarry’s greatest talent is her ability to handle irate customers at the front desk. “She has the ability to communicate the facts with calmness and clarity to satisfy the most frustrated citizen,” American Legion member Thom Spratt said during the service. “She has sent many citizens away completely satisfied, but she also has the ability to excuse irate customers from the lobby to await a deputy in the outer parking lot if their behavior so dictates—she can deliver a strong clear message that office staff does not tolerate verbal abuse or a lack of respect.”

u

SC Sheriff’s Blotter Compiled By JONATHAN VOLZKE All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Web site (www.ocsd.org) and reflects data available from calls placed from the field by the responding officer(s). An arrest doesn’t represent guilt.

The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Monday, January 24 TRAFFIC HAZARD Avenida Presidio/Avenida Pico (8:17 a.m.)

A turn signal was stuck, causing traffic to back up.

FOUND BICYCLE Avenida San Luis Rey, 100 Block (7:52 a.m.) A bicycle had been left in an alley across from the tennis courts for more than a day.

FOLLOW UP REPORT El Camino Real, 1400 Block (4:16 a.m.)

A girl ran away from Orangewood, the county’s shelter for neglected, abandoned and abused kids.

u The Dana West Yacht Club is hosting an open house on Sunday, February 27 at 24601 Dana Drive, Dana Point. The event will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Appetizers will be available and live music will be offered by band The Surfers.

The club welcomes boat owners and non-boat owners for membership.

For more information about the open house, call 949.300.2088 or visit the yacht club’s website at www.dwyc.org.

u Mrs. Noah, a sub-adult female sea lion, was picked up from San Clemente Wednesday by the rescuers at Pacific Marine Mammal Center. She was the Laguna Beach-based nonprofit’s first rescue of 2011.

At the time of her rescue Mrs. Noah was “underweight, extremely dehydrated, had a large wound at the underside of the upper portion of the front left flipper and a corneal abrasion,” according to the center’s Facebook page. She weighed 132 pounds when admitted WednesMrs. Noah was rescued in San Clemente Wednesday. Courtesy photo day at 10:45 a.m.

Mrs. Noah has undergone intense hydration therapy, wound care and administration of antibiotics. She has since returned to eating fish.

Workers at the center continue to clean her wound about two times daily. The sea lion appears to be healing nicely, and she is getting some weight on her, workers said this week.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Calle Lobina, 2300 Block (11:36 p.m.) A resident reported seeing shadows outside and hearing footsteps in leaves. Then someone knocked on the window.

ABANDONED VEHICLE Avenida Monterey, 200 Block (4:56 p.m.)

An unattached Seadoo trailer was parked in the same spot for more than 72 hours.

It already had several tickets on it.

Sunday, January 23

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Victoria, 600 Block (3:51 p.m.)

A man and two women at a pierside restaurant ordered meals, but had no way of paying for them.

DISTURBANCE Plaza Estival, 300 Block (11:21 p.m.) A man was heard screaming.

BURGLARY Avenida Palizada, 200 Block (11:09 p.m.)

A man reported someone broke into his home and stole his laptop. The crook was online when the victim called in, because the victim’s Facebook account showed him online.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 200 Block (10:35 p.m.)

A caller requested deputies escort a yelling man off the premises.

DISTURBANCE La Ronda, 100 Block (10:09 p.m.) Several kids were running up and down the stairs.

HIT AND RUN Calle Ganadero, 600 Block (9:45 p.m.)

A woman reporting several suspicious cars on her street added that one had just crashed into her parked vehicle.

SAFE KEEPING Calle Amistad, 100 Block (5:06 p.m.) A man was required to turn in his firearms after a restraining order was issued.

Page 6 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

DISTURBANCE Avenida Mendocino/El Camino Real (3:24 p.m.) A homeless woman asked a 20-yearold to open her bottle of Jack Daniels for her.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Santa Margarita, 100 Block (2:04 p.m.) Partygoers were shouting, blowing horns and yelling profanity.

RECKLESS DRIVING North El Camino Real/Avenida Pico (2:10 p.m.) A Chevy van was swerving in and out lanes, then honked and flipped off a motorist, who called deputies.

DISTURBANCE Mariposa, 100 Block (2:02 p.m.) A man and woman were yelling at each other, in front of an 8-year-old boy.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 700 Block (1:34 p.m.) A caller saw a man hit a woman at a restaurant, in front of a 4-year-old and 5-year-old.

DISTURBANCE North El Camino Real/Avenida Pico (12:59 p.m.) Somebody was shooting paintballs at passing cars and people.

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Victoria, 600 Block (12:35 p.m.) A homeless man was selling bait in front of a business.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON Avenida San Fernando, 100 Block (2:22 a.m.) A caller spotted a guy on a bike going down the street trying car doors.

GRAND THEFT Camino de Los Mares, 600 Block (12:44 a.m.)

Someone was stealing barrels of cooking oil.

Saturday, January 22 PATROL CHECK Via Tulipan, 1600 Block (11:12 p.m.) Cars were stopping with kids getting out to use the restroom on yards. They also left behind beer bottles.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Miramar/Avenida Palizada (11:12 p.m.) A caller reported a local business was staying open beyond its permit time, and loud customers in an overflow parking lot were causing problems. The business said it has permission to stay open until 1 a.m.

DISTURBANCE Via Vina, 2000 Block (10:29 p.m.) A party led to a fight among several people, which led to one being conked in the head with a rock. www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Stacie N. Galang, 949.388.7700, x109 sgalang@sanclementetimes.com Advertising

SC S a n C le m e n te

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com San Clemente Times, Vol. 6, Issue 4. The SC Times (www.sanclementetimes.com ) is published weekly by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com) and The Capistrano Dispatch (www.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 2011. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SC Green: By Gary Headrick

New Year, New Decade, New Era But What Really Matters is Right Now

O

ur work at San Clemente Green has been largely focused on establishing a Sustainability Action Plan for the past few years. With that plan now securely in place, my wife, Laurie, and I have turned inwardly to look at making more progress on our own path to sustainable living. It is really more of a pilot project for what we hope will become the next step SC Green for San Clemente Green. We are anxious to

By Gary Headrick prove the concepts of permaculture, (a permanent way for a culture to thrive) right here at home, before attempting our ultimate goal of doing something similar, but on a larger scale.

One of the guiding principles of permaculture we are adhering to closely is: “Planning is best done in advance.” As obvious as that may seem, you can’t believe how tempting it has been to just do anything that feels like tangible progress.

We know that would be a very costly mistake, so we trudge on, determined to see it through on paper as best we can, allowing for some wiggle room when we get under construction. Once we are settled on a plan, we can break it into phases, and while the process has been slow and frustrating at times, it is a real learning experience, which we have begun to document and intend to share with others.

Having the right attitude is going to be key to our sanity and to our success over the long haul. The same may be true for the world at large. At this particular time in our history we find ourselves looking back on yet another year, another decade, another era. We now find ourselves at the threshold of a new age, marked by distinctive changes from the world as we know it today. With the realization that constant growth

in a world of limited resources is not sustainable, comes the responsibility to develop the correct alternative plan that holds the promise of a “permanent culture.” How we respond will be felt for countless generations to come.

In such a situation that causes us to re-think almost every aspect of our collective lives on this planet, we must call upon the nobler qualities of humanity, seeking answers that rise above the instinctive self-serving impulses of our reptilian brain, allowing fear to dominate our psyche only to create a world of still more anger and hostility. Instead, we can allow the good feelings of love and compassion to motivate our actions and put fear in its proper place. We can choose an attitude of gratitude for this miraculous planet and the many gifts that have come our way. We can pause long enough to consider the alternatives and respond with loving kindness, compassion, and the joy of being alive. From that peaceful place in our hearts, our thoughts might be guided towards creative, empathetic and even elegant solutions for a world in crisis.

While I believe with all my heart that these words are true, I could easily find fault with my own inability to follow them consistently, but I choose to not be too hard on myself or judgmental of others. The simple fact that people everywhere are working to bring about a better future for those who follow is a measure of success in itself. If we can learn to substitute a culture of competition for one of cooperation we just might find ourselves looking back on one of the most enlightened periods of human civilization.

In examining our place in time, we might also remind ourselves that years, decades and eras come and go, but eternity is forever. On the scale of infinity, the past and the future are not nearly as significant as the present. The

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Online Reader Poll Do you agree with the City Council’s decision to hold off on buying iPads?

Yes. With the economy, it’s just not the right time.

43% No. The iPads would have saved paper and the environment.

10% Neither. Doesn’t the Council have more important issues?

47% Make sure to sound off each week on the “SC Times Poll of the Week” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Then go to our community Message Board and share your opinions. www.sanclementetimes.com. Bookmark it today!

The SC Times Online Reader Polls are not scientific and do not reflect the opinion of the SC Times.

present is where the finite, readily discernable leading edge of creation originates and is constantly expanding, and where the realm of all possibilities exists. It is in the here and now that our plans will become actions etched into time, and the attitude that leads to the choices we make will determine the value of our being, regardless of the size and scope of our achievements. This attitude of gratitude applies to all planning efforts, whether it is our own green remodel, community issues, our nation, or the whole world. Our collective fate depends on our frame of mind and how we choose to relate to one another and the natural world. Simply put, it all seems to come down to how and now. Change is inevitable, and we influence it with our thoughts and actions. Let’s learn from the lessons of the past as we do our very best as individuals to shape a sustainable future with each opportunity that comes our way.

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are solely those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the San Clemente Times staff.

We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@sanclementetimes.com.

Letters to the Editor WELCOME BACK, BOB McCARROLL! Leo Galcher, San Clemente

The return of Bob McCarroll to the Auto Academy program he founded is very good news for the students of San Clemente High. The academy has given students a chance to learn skills that are very much needed in our transportation focused society. Some of Bob’s students have earned national recognition and scholarships based on what they learned at the Academy.

What the Auto Academy points out is that the removing of vocational programs and programs that teach necessary skills for life such as basic electricity, mechanical drawing, wood shop and metal shop has done damage to the curriculum of SCHS. When I went to high school, I was in the college prep program, but had the opportunity to take wood shop, metal Page 8 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

shop and mechanical drawing. I have several academic degrees, but the vocational courses I took have made my life more enjoyable and gave me skills to maintain my home and autos, which have saved me thousands of dollars over the years.

In retirement, I constructed several electric vehicles and am a volunteer instructor in the Saddleback Auto Tech program. Serious consideration must be given to restoring vocational courses and programs into the curriculum of secondary schools. While you may not be able to design an addition to your home, fix the plumbing in your house or figure out why your car won’t start, let’s not deny future generations the chance to be somewhat self sufficient. America has to start producing “things” again. To do that, vocational training must become a part of the educational program offered to our students.

STRYOFOAM BAN IS DISCRIMINATORY Jerry L. Shelton, San Clemente

I believe the fast food folks are being discriminated against.

Perhaps the ban should be extended to the little meat trays our hamburger comes in, egg cartons, packing peanuts at mailing stores, and particularly the solid styrofoam around electronics equipment, etc. If the council wants to ban something they should go all the way — not just pick on one facet of the problem.

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@sanclementetimes.com or send it to 34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. www.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

SC S a n C le m e n te

THE LIST

A day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town this week. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

thursday27 forecast: sunny • high: 75° low: 44°

LEO KOTTKE

8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $25.

33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

MEMPHIS KINGS

7:30 p.m.–11 p.m. Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

HULAVILLE OPEN MIC NIGHT

6 p.m.-8 p.m. Hulaville invites all musicians, along with singers and hula dancers, to step up and showcase your talents for an appreciative audience. Every Thursday. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

$1 THURSDAYS

5:30 p.m.-8 p.m. San Clemente Wine Company has $1 tastings of wines off the daily tasting menu. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

TRIVIA NIGHT & LIVE MUSIC

9:30 p.m. Games followed by live music at Molly Bloom’s.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com.

friday28 forecast: sunny • high: 75° low: 44°

ROD PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS AND SIX30JAM

GO SEE DO

THEY CAME FROM OUTER SPACE

An out-of-this-world exhibition is set to launch at the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens in San Clemente Saturday, January 29 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. “They Came from Outer Space” is being hailed as a “voyage of discovery,” exploring how the space program has changed and continues to change our everyday lives. The program tells the story of manned space flight through photos of space walks, the International Space Station and images taken by the Hubble Space Telescope as well as the display of authentic gear including a real astronaut suit.

Sample authentic space food used by NASA—ice cream, food sticks and Tang. Face painting, a “guess the space food” competition and trying on an authentic astronaut glove are

BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO

8 p.m. Opening night of a new play at Camino Real Playhouse.

Tickets $24-$34. (Gala night Jan. 29 is $40, includes dinner.)

31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

PIANO BAR

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live piano with Elliot every Friday and Saturday at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

BUNCH OF GUYS

9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. Plus, dress island-style and get happy hour specials all night. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

GROOVE LOUNGE

9 p.m. Dance while great DJs spin hit music at OC Tavern.

Free. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

The first three people to email us with SC Times Free Concert Tix in the subject line will receive a pair of free concert tickets from The Coach House to see either Leo Kottke on Thursday, January 27th or Rod Piazza on Friday, January 28th . Please include your name and phone number in the e-mail. E-MAIL: tickets@ sanclementetimes.com

WIN FREE CONCERT TICKETS!

saturday29 forecast: sunny • high: 72° low: 44°

GRAY WHALE WATCHING

12 p.m.; 2 p.m. Spend the day at sea searching for gray whales with Dana Wharf. Adults $29, kids $19. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

THEY CAME FROM OUTER SPACE

1 p.m.-4 p.m. Grand Opening event for Casa Romantica’s new NASA Space Exploration Exhibit featuring live music, food, activities and more. Exhibit includes historical stories, space food, photos, equipment and more. Adults $5. Kids 12 and under $3. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

CARL PINO

HAIR

12 ANGRY MEN

2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Hit musical live onstage at OC Performing Arts Center; contains mature content. Ticket start at $20. Runs though Feb. 6. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS, www.ocpac.org.

8 p.m. Cabrillo Playhouse presents a new play that examines the jury system. Tickets $20. Shows through Jan. 30. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

LEROY & THE BAD BROWNS

KARAOKE

MANA

9 p.m. El Mariachi Restaurant hosts Karaoke every Friday and Saturday. 1925 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.369.5111.

Page 10 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

THE TRIP

9 p.m.-12 a.m. Live hit music with a rock emphasis (Led Zepplin, Stones, AC/DC, etc.) at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

CRAB FEAST & AUCTION

6 p.m.-11 p.m. Forster Ranch Education Foundation hosts its fundraising crab feast and auction at the Casino with dinner, music, dancing and auctions. Tickets $60 each, $600 per table for 10. 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.661.1427, www.forsterranchedufoundation.com.

BE DAZZLED

7:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. The hit drag queen show at Adele’s.

2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.366.1121, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.

THE NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS

7:30 p.m. Saddleback College Performing Arts presents acrobats of China defying gravity and executing breathtaking feats live at the McKinney Theatre. General admission $32. 28000 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo, 949.582.4656, www.saddleback.edu/arts.

FLOCK OF ‘80S

7:30 p.m.-11:30 p.m. Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

sunday30 forecast: partly cloudy • high: 70° low: 43°

8 p.m. Rockin’ blues with Rod Piazza and his band; opening is Six20Jam, a four-piece blues/funk band fronted by lead vocalist Betsy Backal, at The Coach House. Also playing: Jack the Music.

Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea tonight and Saturday night.

34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

just a few of the activities for kids. A live performance by the band Space Aliens will also be featured. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for kids 12 and under, or $12 for a family pack—two adults, two children.

The exhibition runs through March 27.

Two other related events are scheduled during the exhibit’s run—February 3 at 7 p.m. former NASA scientist Dave Foxton presents “A Photographic Tour of Our Solar System,” then on March 3 at 7 p.m.

John Hoot of NASA’s Jet Propulsion LaboNASA Image ratory will present “Images from Space,” a visual history of the development of the technology behind everything from Google Earth, spy satellites and weather imagery to the Hubble telescope and beyond. Log on to www. casaromantica.org for more information.

9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

8 p.m.-10 p.m. Concert at Hulaville. Tickets $5. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET

9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar in San Clemente. Rain or shine.

MARINE MAMMAL CRUISE

1 p.m. Journey to sea with Ocean Institute scientists and to observe and learn about marine wildlife. Tickets $35 adults, $22 children (members $22 adults, $19 children). 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

LEWIS & CLARK EXPEDITION ACROSS AMERICA

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Check out the exhibit that examines Lewis and Clark’s remarkable adventure at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Runs through March. Free with admission $5–$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

LADIES SHOPPING & MIMOSAS

1 p.m.-3 p.m. The Cellar hosts a shopping event with drinks, a stylist, boutique fashions, dermatologist and more. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

UKULELE NIGHTS

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Bring your Ukulele, sing along or listen to the music at Hulaville’s newest event. Every Sunday. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com

JOHNNY LANG

7 p.m. Popular rock ‘n’ roll artist at The Coach House, also playing: Mike Eldred Trio. Tickets $55. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

(Cont. on page 13) www.sanclementetimes.com

CO N T E N TS Eateries, Watering Holes & More Best…

Appetizers • 6 Bagel • 4 Bar • 8 Billiards • 8 Breakfast • 3 Breakfast Burrito • 4 Burger • 6 Cup of Coffee or Tea • 4 Donut • 4 Happy Hour • 3 International Eats • 3 Lunch Spot • 4 Margarita • 8 Menu for Healthy Choices • 4 Overall Restaurant • 3 Pizza • 6 Restaurant for a Date/Romantic Evening • 3 Sandwich • 6 Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth • 8 Sushi • 6 Taco • 6 Venue for Live Music • 8

At the Shops Best…

Antiques • 12 Arts and Craft Supplies • 10 Clothing • 10 Home Decor and Furnishings • 12 Jewelry • 10 Kids Apparel & Toys • 10 Place to Buy Flowers • 12 Place for Buying and Viewing Art • 10 Store to Buy the Perfect Gift • 12 Surfboard Shaper • 12 Surf Shop • 12 Wine Selection • 10

Services on the To-Do List

We can hardly believe five years came and went so quickly at the SC Times. Yet here we are celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Best of San Clemente People’s Choice “Ole Awards.” A recurring theme of local and loyal rippled through these pages. We champion San Clemente for its unique ability to give residents and visitors so much choice. In this issue, we salute the businesses and the people who make them run. We welcome the newcomers to our annual edition and commend the long-standing companies who kept us happily fed, masterfully clothed and properly pampered.

The SC Times wanted to provide those businesses that don’t fall neatly into any one category an opportunity to shine.

So new to our “Best of” pages this year is our customer service category. The restaurants, shops and companies in these pages deserve their honors, especially for continued service in lean times. Finally, we thank the customers and our readers — more than 3,000 of you — who shared your opinions on the best our seaside community has to offer.

Congratulations to newcomer Rider Club Cafe for taking gold in the “Best Burger” category.

Photo by Jasmine Smith

Best…

Barber Shop • 14 Car Repair • 17 Customer Service • 14 Dry Cleaner • 17 Pet Care & Grooming • 14 Gym • 14 Hair Salon • 14 Lodging • 17 Manicure & Pedicure • 14 Spa for Massages, Etc. • 17 Surfboard Ding Repair • 17 Yoga/Pilates Studio • 17

Getting Outside Best…

Beach • 18 Golf Course • 18 Park to Take the Kids • 18 Place to Take Out-of-Towners • 18 Surf Break • 18

BEST OVERALL RESTAURANT

Golden Ole

PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Voted Best Overall Restaurant for the second consecutive year, Fisherman’s has earned its rightful spot as a local favorite by SC Times readers. There’s something for everyone — libations, good eats and spectacular views. The seafood restaurant on San Clemente’s Pier is a hot spot for guests coming for lunch during a beach visit, stopping for happy hour after work or celebrating a special occasion. —SNG

Silver Ole

NICK’S SAN CLEMENTE 213 Avenida Del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club • Blue Danube Steak and Seafood • Board & Brew • Café 207 • Café Calypso • Cafe Rae • Café Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Chronic Tacos • Crispin’s • Del Agave • El Mariachi Restaurant • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fratello’s Italian Family • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company Store • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Izza Pizza • Jacobi’s On the Alley • La Gallette Creperie • La Siesta Restaurant • Mongkut Thai Restaurant • Mr Pete Burgers • New Mandarin Garden • OltreMare • Pier Shack & Grill • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • Rocco’s Restaurant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Next Door • The Riders Club • The Shore • The Signature Grille and Bar at Talega Golf Club • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Sundried Tomato Amreican Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • Village Mediterranean Rim • Velvet Yogurt • Vine • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Gordon James Grill

BEST BREAKFAST

Eateries, Watering Holes and More...

BEST INTERNATIONAL EATS

The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

BEST HAPPY HOUR

Golden Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Happy Hour doesn’t get much better than at Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar. With the sunset as a backdrop and weekday drink specials, the restaurant on San Clemente’s Pier has earned Golden Ole honors for Best Happy Hour two years running. The eatery embraces a festive spirit, giving each day a title. Whether it’s Tropical Tuesday or Fisherman’s Friday, patrons are sure to leave happy. —SNG

Silver Ole

BEACHFIRE BAR AND GRILL 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com

Golden Ole

ANTOINE’S CAFÉ

Silver Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR

218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com

For the love of breakfast, Antoine’s delivers. The breakfast spot has earned the Golden Ole for Best Breakfast four years straight. At the South El Camino restaurant, croissants, crepes and burritos meet up on the menu with breakfast staples of eggs, hash brown and breakfast meats like ham, bacon or sausage. Customers can try organic teas, specialty coffees or fresh squeezed orange juice, too. —SNG 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • The Bagel Shack • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Beach Garden Cafe • Board & Brew • Café Calypso • Cafe Del Sol • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carrows • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins • Denny’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company Store • IHOP • Irons in the Fire • Jacobi’s on the Alley • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • La Gallette Creperie • La Tiendita • Los Golodrinas • Love Burger • McDonalds • Mr Pete Burgers • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Peet’s Coffee & Tea • Pier Shack & Grill • Pipes Cafe • Riders Club Cafe • Rose’s Donuts & Cafe • Rose’s Sugar Shack • SC Cafe • SC Donuts • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Starbucks • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Surfin’ Donuts Coffee House & Grill • Sunrise Cafe • The Next Door • The Signature Grille and Bar at Talega Golf Club • Tommy’s Family Restaurant & Coffee Shop 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Antoine’s; Silver: S.C. Cafe

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bad to the Bone BBQ • Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Blue Danube Steak and Seafood • Board & Brew • Café Mimosa • Cassano’s Pizza • Duke’s • Fratello’s Italian Family • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Restaurant • The Next Door • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern • Ole’s Tavern • OltreMare • Pizza Port • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Stillwater Cafe • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Talega Golf Club • The Cellar • The Red Fox Lounge • The Riders Club Cafe • The Shore • Velvet Yogurt 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Gordon James Thai wrap appetizer at Mongkut Thai. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Golden Ole

MONGKUT THAI RESTAURANT 212 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3871, www.mongkutthaifoods.com

Nearly 25 years of experience translates into winning recipes at Mongkut Thai and top nods for international eats this year. A consistent favorite, Mongkut earned a Silver Ole in 2008. The restaurant offers popular curries and vegetarian dishes galore.

Customers crave the chicken satay and jumbo scallops and shrimp. They return for favorites like mango and sticky rice dessert and Thai spring rolls. —SNG

Silver Ole

AVILA’S EL RANCHITO

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com

NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • A Taste of China • Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Blue Danube Steak and Seafood • Board & Brew • Buono Pizza and Pasta • Carbonara Trattoria • Café 207 • Café Del Sol • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Cassano’s Pizza • China Well Restaurant • Chronic Tacos • Del Agave • El Jefe Café • El Mariachi Restaurant • Enne Cucina Italiana • Frattello’s Italian Family • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Italian Cravings • Izza Pizzeria • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • La Gallette Creperie • Los Patios • La Siesta Restaurant • La Tiendita • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • New Mandarin Garden • Nick’s San Clemente • Nobu Sushi • OltreMare • Pacific Taste Chinese Restaurant • Pedro’s Tacos • Pick Up Stix • Rocco’s Restaurant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Super Bowl Express • Sushi Gallery Miki • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Thai Paradise Restaurant • The Melting Pot • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • Village Mediterranean Rim 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta; Silver: Avila’s El Ranchito

wwww.sanclementetimes.com

BEST RESTAURANT FOR A DATE/ROMANTIC EVENING

Golden Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Stunning scenery, fine dining and a wine list that goes on for days, combine to make the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar an ideal place for a romantic evening. For the full effect, guests can choose the outdoor seating and listen to the waves roll onto the beach. The restaurant has long impressed couples on a first date or those toasting years of wedded bliss. —SNG

Silver Ole

VINE

211 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com

NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club • Board & Brew • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Chronic Tacos • Duke’s • Enne Cucina Italiana • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jacobi’s on the Alley • La Siesta Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Ole’s Tavern • OltreMare • Pedro’s Tacos • Pier Shack & Grill • Rocco’s Restaurant • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • The Melting Pot • The Next Door • The Riders Club Cafe • Village Mediterranean Rim 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Vine

Antoine’s Café. Photo by Jasmine Smith

3

BEST BREAKFAST BURRITO

Golden Ole PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

BEST CUP OF COFFEE OR TEA

Golden Ole

300 S. El Camino Real, 949.369.9520; 1001 Avenida Pico, 949.369.5649; 638 Camino de los Mares, 949.496.5900; www.starbucks.com

ANTOINE’S CAFÉ

218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com

NOMINEES: 7-Eleven • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Aloha Coffee Hut • Beach Garden Cafe • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Board & Brew • Café Calypso • Cafe Expresso • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carrows • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf • Corky’s Family Restaurant • La Gallette Creperie • Crispins “Comfort Food” Restaurant • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Kaylani Coffee Co • Kelly’s Donuts • Lavender Lounge Tea Company • McDonald’s • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Peet’s Coffee & Tea • Pipes Cafe • Posh Peasant • Rose’s Donuts • San Clemente Yogurt, Tea, Coffee & Juice • S.C. Cafe • SC Donuts • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Stillwater Cafe • Surfin’ Donuts Coffee House & Grill • Rose’s Sugar Shack • The Bagel Shack • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Starbucks; Silver: Antoine’s Café

BEST BAGEL

Golden Ole

THE BAGEL SHACK

777 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0745

Bagel Shack’s menu explains the restaurant’s success: Baked daily on the premises. The shop earned a Golden Ole for Best Bagel for the fourth consecutive year. Bagel Shack offers 19 bagel varieties, from asiago cheese to sun dried tomato. The restaurant also features eight spreads like chive, maple and very berry. Their eight breakfast sandwiches — with names like San-O and T-Street — pay homage to San Clemente. —SNG

Silver Ole

SURFIN DONUTS COFFEE HOUSE & GRILL 1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Antoine’s Café • Board & Brew • Billy’s Meats, Seafood & Deli • Board & Brew • Bread Gallery • Café Calypso • Cafe Expresso • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Panera Bread • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Kaylani Coffee Co • Pipes Cafe • Ralphs • Rose’s Donuts • S.C. Cafe • Starbucks • Stillwater Cafe • Rose’s Sugar Shack • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Wendy’s 2009 WINNERS: Gold: The Bagel Shack; Silver: Captain Mauri’s Counterculture

PIPES CAFE 2017 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5002, www.pipescafe.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Beach Garden Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Board & Brew • Café Calypso • Cafe Del Sol • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins • Del Taco • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi Restaurant • La Tiendita • Surfin’ Donuts Coffeehouse & Grill • Humphrey’s Sanwich Shop • Irons in the Fire • Kelly’s Donuts • La Siesta Restaurant • Love Burger • McDonald’s • Mr Pete Burgers • Pier Shack & Grill • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • Rose’s Donuts • S.C. Cafe • SC Donuts • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Stillwater Cafe • Sunrise Cafe • Surfin Donuts Coffeehouse & Grill • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • The Signature Grille and Bar at Talega Golf Club • The Shore • Tommy’s Family Restaurant & Coffee Shop 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: Surfin Donuts Coffee House & Grill

A consistently good cup of joe makes Starbucks the favorite place for residents’ morning caffeine fix. Every year, the Seattlebased coffee company has received a Golden Ole for Best Cup of Coffee. Its success is due in part to baristas’ ability to field all manner of special orders or simply serve a piping hot cup of java. —SNG

Silver Ole

2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908; www.pedrostacos.com

For a taco joint, Pedro’s Tacos also produces the Best Breakfast Burrito around, so say the readers of the SC Times. Pedro’s Tacos brings 25 years of experience to the kitchen, and it shows.

From 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. daily, the South El Camino spot serves up burritos with a combination of eggs, beans, steak and chorizo.

Customers enjoy the fact that they can drive thru or eat in.

—SNG

Silver Ole

STARBUCKS

PEDRO’S TACOS

Best coffee: Starbucks. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST LUNCH SPOT

Golden Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Pretty much anytime on the water is an ideal time, but SC Times’ readers chose Fisherman’s as their preferred spot for lunchtime. Fresh seafood options abound on the lunch menu and other specialties like pasta dishes and sandwiches round out the noontime fare. With the outdoor seating and unrivaled ocean views, bring your sunglasses and an appetite. —SNG

Silver Ole

BOARD & BREW

979 Avenida Pico Unit C, 949.498.2739, www.boardnbrewsc.com

NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Baja Fresh • Beach Garden Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Bread Gallery • Buono Pizza and Pastas • Burger Junkies • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Carl’s Jr. • Carrows • Cassano’s Pizza • Chronic Tacos • Costco • Crispins Comfort Food Restaurant • Daphne’s Greek Cafe • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Pollo Loco • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fratello’s Italian Family • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company store • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Irons in the Fire • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Kahuna’s Grill • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Rocco’s Pizzeria • La Siesta Restaurant • La Tiendita • Love Burger • Mr Pete Burger • Mulligan’s • New Mandarin Garden • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pacific Taste Chinese Restaurant • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pier Shack and Grill • Pipes Cafe • Pizza Port • Posh Peasant’s Tea Room & Cafe • Quiznos • Rose’s Donuts & Cafe • Rubios • S.C. Cafe • Schleppy’s • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts Coffee House & Grill • Surfside Pizza • The Cellar • The Kultured Kitchen • The Next Door • The Riders Club Cafe • The Shore • The Signature Grille and Bar at Talega Golf Club • Tina and Vince’s Italian Deli • Village Mediterranean Rim • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zpizza 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Café Calypso

BEST DONUT

Golden Ole

SURFIN’ DONUTS

1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450

Surfin’ Donuts Coffee House is riding a streak as Best Donut for the past four years. Customers crave the Tiger Tail, a donut twist with chocolate on one side and cinnamon on the other.

In addition to twists, they serve up bars, filled donuts, raised donuts and cake donuts. Breakfast morsels also include strawberry croissants, bear claws and even the breakfast burrito.

—SNG

Silver Ole

S.C. DONUTS 806 E. Avenida Pico, Ste. G, 949.498.7837

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Board & Brew • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf • Donut House • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Kelly’s Doughnuts • Rose’s Donuts • Starbucks • Rose’s Sugar Shack • Wendy’s 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Surfin Donuts; Silver: S.C. Donuts

BEST MENU FOR HEALTHY CHOICES

Captain Mauri’s veggie burger and fresh “Tsunami” juice. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Golden Ole

CAPTAIN MAURI’S COUNTERCULTURE

Silver Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR

149 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.8098

Captain Mauri’s offers a cornucopia of fresh fruit and vegetables. The Avenida Del Mar dining spot features smoothies like the Hanalei Dream, a blend of pineapple banana and POG for passion fruit, orange and guava juice. Savory bites include the Bombay Melt, an open-faced sandwich of curry chicken salad, tomato, onions and melted jack cheese on a toasted English muffin with their ginger-lime Bali sauce. —SNG

The Bagel Shack. Photo by Jasmine Smith

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611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Avila’s El Ranchito • Baja Fresh • The BeachFire Bar and Grill • Beach Garden Cafe • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Billy’s Meats, Seafood & Deli • Board & Brew • Bread Gallery • Cafe Calypso • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Crispins • El Pollo Loco • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company Store • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Jamba Juice • Juice it Up • Juice Stop • La Tiendita • McDonald’s • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Pipes Cafe • Ralphs Deli • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Schleppys • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • stellaLucy Gluten Free Market • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Super Bowl Express • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Bagel Shack • The Cellar • The Flame Broiler • The Kultured Kitchen • The Next Door • The Riders Club Cafe • The Shore • Velvet Yogurt • Village Mediterranean Rim • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zpizza 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Captain Mauri’s Counterculture; Silver: Café Calypso

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BEST APPETIZERS

Golden Ole PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

A lineup of 22 different starters sets Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar apart from the pack in this category. The San Clemente Pier eatery places heavy emphasis on seafood to kick off a meal. Patrons will be pleased with the variety of oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, ahi, crab and calarmari available. Others will enjoy staples like Fisherman’s mozzarella sticks, portions of hot wings and chicken strips. —SNG

Silver Ole

BEACHFIRE BAR AND GRILL

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com

NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Café • Avilas El Ranchito • The Cellar • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Cannons • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Crispins Comfort Food Restaurant • Duke’s • El Patio • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fratello’s Italian Family • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jacobi’s on the Alley • La Rocco’s • La Siesta Restaurant • Village Mediterranean Rim • Mongkut Thai • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • OltreMare • Pizza Port • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Sundried Tomato Cafe• The Melting Pot • The Next Door • Vine 2009 WINNERS: Gold: BeachFire Bar and Grill; Silver: Gordon James Grill

BEST BURGER

Golden Ole

THE RIDERS CLUB CAFE

1701 N. El Camino Real, 949.388.3758, www.ridersclubcafe.com

The Riders Club Cafe boasts “slow fast food.” They make their own pickles and kettle chips and even though they technically only have three patties on their burger menu—natural beef, ground in house, house-made veggie patty, chicken or portabella—not to mention the varied cheese selection and impressive beer selection to boot (think Belgian beers for winter).

In all, the ingredients are top-notch so don’t expect to ask for a regular ol’ burger, cheese and katsup. —CS

Silver Ole Oh No Roll at Taka-O. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST PIZZA

Golden Ole

LA ROCCO’S

122 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.8890, www.laroccospizzaonline.com

They may be the closest a West Coaster can get to real New York pies. Rumor has it that every LaRocco’s 18 inch pie is made with water that comes to them directly from New York and they make their homemade dough and sauce from scratch daily.

Slices and made-to-order pies are both available. —CS

Silver Ole

SELMA’S CHICAGO PIZZERIA 218 Avenida Del Mar, 949.276.2828, www.selmaschicagopizzeria.com

NOMINEES: 2 for 1 Pizza Co • Antoine’s Café • Buonos Pizza & Pasta • Cassano’s Pizza • Cucina Pizzeria • Domino’s Pizza • The Cellar • First Class Pizza • Fratello’s Italian Family Restaurant • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Italian Cravings • Izza Pizzeria • Pizza Port • Romano’s Pasta and Pizzeria • Round Table Pizza • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Stuft Pizza & Brewing • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfside Pizza • The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • Zpizza • Papa Murphy’s • Take N Bake Pizza • Pizza Hut 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta; Silver: Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria

BEST SUSHI

Golden Ole

TAKA-O JAPANESE RESTAURANT 425 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7111, www.taka-orestaurant.com

Taka-O celebrated its 30-year anniversary this year and it’s by far San Clemente’s most-visited sushi restaurant. With plenty of seating in the bar and in the restaurant, the wait for a table is never long even though the place is always packed. When Roger and Kelly Sugano opened Taka-O, they brought to Orange County its first Japanese restaurant. Now they’re known for their “Oh No Roll” and hoppin’ karaoke in the bar. —CS

Silver Ole

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • A’s Burger • Bad to the Bone BBQ • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Billy’s Meats, Seafood & Deli • Burger Junkies • Burger Stop • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Carl’s Jr. • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins Comfort Food Restaurant • Daphne’s Greek Cafe • Denny’s • Dukes • El Mariachi Restaurant • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Irons in the Fire • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Kahuna Grill • La Siesta Restaurant • Love Burger • McDonald’s • Mr. Pete’s Burgers • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • The Next Door • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pedro’s Tacos • Pier Shack and grill • Pipes Cafe • Rose’s Donuts and Café • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Shorecliffs Golf Course • The Signature Grille and Bar at Talega Golf Club • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts Coffeehouse & Grill • Vine • Tommy’s Family Restaurant & Coffee Shop 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Fatburger; Silver: Mr. Pete’s Burger

BEST TACO

9 STYLE SUSHI

102 Avenida Victoria, 949.366.3669

BEST SANDWICH BILLY’S MEAT, SEAFOOD & DELI 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5924, www.downtownsanclemente/billysmeats

This past June, owner, Bill Bradley celebrated his 20th anniversary as the owner of San Clemente’s favorite spot for sandwiches made with fresh, Boar’s Head meat, sliced-to-order, or chicken, tuna or egg salad. “Bill’s the best boss you could ever have,” said seven-year employee, Tina Logan, who any regular will recognize at the cashier. “He makes you feel like family.”

—CS

Silver Ole

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1017 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.9182, www.biggiesburgers.com

NOMINEES: Akioni’s Catering • BeachFire Bar and Grill • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Sushi Gallery Miki • Miyako Sushi • Nobu Sushi • Ralphs • Sushi Sono Inc 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Taka-O Japanese Restaurant; Silver: 9 Style Sushi

Golden Ole

La Rocco’s “Pauly’s Special.” Photo byJasmine Smith

BIGGIES BURGERS & MORE

BOARD & BREW

979 Avenida Pico Unit C, 949.498.2739, www.boardnbrewsc.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s • A’s Burger • Bad to the Bone • Beach Garden Cafe • The BeachFire Bar and Grill • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Bread Gallery • Buonos Pizza & Pasta • Burger Junkies • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Café Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Cassano’s Pizza • Coffee Importers • Corky’s Family Restaurant • The Kultured Kitchen • Crispins Comfort Food Restaurant • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hector’s Cake Shop and Bakery • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Irons in the Fire • Italian Cravings • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Panera Bread • Piccadilly Delicatessen • Pier Shack & Grill • The Posh Peasant Tea Room & Cafe • Quiznos • La Rocco’s • Rose’s Donut Café • Sandwhich Buddies • S.C. Cafe • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • The Cellar • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • The Next Door • The Rider’s Club • The Shore • Village Mediterranean Rim 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Billy’s Meat, Seafood and Deli; Silver: Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli

Pedro’s popular fish taco. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Golden Ole

PEDRO’S TACOS

2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908; www.pedrostacos.com

Pedro’s Tacos has been serving up their famous fish tacos, among other items made with fresh produce, high quality tortillas and meats, special seasonings and unique recipes since 1986, when they became Orange County’s first fish taco stand.

Their two family-owned San Clemente locations are favorites among surfers and the after-school crowd, but really, everybody loves Pedro’s. —CS

Silver Ole

AVILA’S EL RANCHITO

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Baja Fresh • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Burger Stop • Café Del Sol • Chronic Tacos • Del Agave • Del Taco • Los Patios • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi Restaurant • El Patio Cafe • El Pollo Loco • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Hapa J’s • La Cocina de Ricardo • La Siesta Restaurant • La Tiendita • Los Patios • Mr. Pete’s Burger • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Rubio’s Mexican Grill • Taco Bell • The Shore • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: Avila’s El Ranchito

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BEST BILLIARDS

PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

Golden Ole

OLE’S TAVERN

Silver Ole

DUKE’S

127 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.9400, www.olestavern.com

The back half of Ole’s Tavern is devoted to the two, blue felt pool tables. Since 1994, this South El Camino neighborhood pub has been a local favorite, and billiards tops the list of reasons customers keep coming back. For those unprepared to pick up a pool stick, there’s plenty of seating to watch pool sharks play. —SNG 204 S. El Camino Real, 949.481.2040

NOMINEES: BeachFire Bar and Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Board & Brew • Goody’s Tavern • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar and Restaurant • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Outrigger 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Duke’s; Silver: Ole’s Tavern

BEST MARGARITA

Golden Ole

AVILA’S EL RANCHITO

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com

With nearly 50 varieties of tequila, it’s no wonder why the voters pick Avila’s El Ranchito time and again for Best Margarita. “You name it. We got it,” says bartender Avanti Benson.

A favorite at the Mexican eatery is Juan’s Margarita, a mix of Herradura Silver Tequila, cointreau, fresh lime juice and sweet and sour mix. Customers can also choose their tequila straight up or Cadillac style. —SNG

Silver Ole

EL MARIACHI RESTAURANT 1925 S. El Camino Real, 949.369.5111

NOMINEES: BeachFire Bar and Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Board & Brew • Carbanara Trattoria • Café 207 • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Jefe Cafe • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • La Siesta Restaurant • Los Patios • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • The Red Fox Lounge • La Cocino De Ricardo • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • The Shore 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Avila’s El Ranchito; Silver: El Mariachi Restaurant Best venue for live music: OC Tavern. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST VENUE FOR LIVE MUSIC

Golden Ole

OC TAVERN GRILL & SPORTS BAR

2369 S. El Camino Real, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com

In 2010, OC Tavern was the place to be for live music. The South El Camino venue could pack in 200 music lovers for tribute bands or up-and-comers. Sadly, the pub’s string of wins in this category ends this year with the swap-out of the stage for off-track betting. Customers needn’t worry. The full-service bar, proliferation of flat-screen TVs and wide-ranging menu offers plenty to do beyond the live tunes. —SNG

Silver Ole

BEACHFIRE BAR AND GRILL 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Antoine’s Café • Blue Danube Steak and Seafood • Board & Brew • Café Mimosa • Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens • Carbonara Trattoria • Duke’s • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Fratello’s Italian Family • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar and Restaurant • Ole’s Tavern • Rib Trader • San Clemente Street Festivals • The Cellar • The Shore 2009 WINNERS: Gold: OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill

BEST BAR

Golden Ole

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR 611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

Customers just seem to flock to Fisherman’s. In 2010, the Fisherman’s sold 11,747 of their signature cocktail, the Cottons. Meyers Rum, triple sec, pineapple, orange juice and 151 Rum create “the perfect mix,” says director of operations Bob Novello. “The real drink of San Clemente is the Cottons.” If that’s not their pleasure, patrons have plenty to pick from at the seaside bar. —SNG

Silver Ole

BEACHFIRE BAR AND GRILL 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Avila El Ranchito • Big Heleyn’s • Blue Danube Steak and Seafood • Board & Brew • Carbonara Trattoria • Café 207 • Duke’s • Fratello’s Italian Family • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Restaurant • Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar and Restaurant • Mulligan’s Sports Bar • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Pizza Port • The Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • The Riders Club Cafe • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • The Elks Club • The Next Door • The Shore • Vine 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Gordon James Grill; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar

Avila’s El Ranchito’s tasty margaritas. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

BEST SPOT TO CURE A SWEET TOOTH

Golden Ole

VELVET YOGURT

120 S. El Camino Real, 949.276.4625, www.velvetyogurt.com

For four years running, Velvet Yogurt has topped SC Times readers’ list in this category. The shop lets guests serve themselves frozen yogurt in palate-pleasing flavors. Seasonal varieties complement perennial favorites like chocolate, vanilla, cookies and cream, peanut butter and Euro tart. The dessert can be topped with fresh fruit, candy, cookies and novelties like mochi, a delightful gummy Japanese confection. —SNG

Silver Ole

SCHMID’S FINE CHOCOLATES 99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052

NOMINEES: Baskin-Robbins • Albertsons • Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Best of Britain • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Board & Brew • Café Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • Carrows • Cold Stone Creamery • Crispins • Dairy Queen • San Clemente Yogurt • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt • Hapa J’s • Hector’s Cake Shop and Bakery • Hulaville Island Cafe and Restaurant • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jamba Juice • Jumpin’ Jack • La Galette Creperie • The Melting Pot • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Rite Aid • Omi Kookies • OltreMare • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Rose’s Sugar Shack • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Starbucks • stellaLucy Gluten Free Market • Stillwater Cafe • Sugar Blossom Bake Shop • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts Coffeehouse & Grill • The Shore • Village Mediterranean Rim • Victoria Market & Liquor 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Velvet Yogurt; Silver: Schmid’s Fine Chocolates

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Natalie Singer, Associate Manager at Velvet Yogurt. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

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BEST PLACE TO BUY JEWELRY

PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

At the Shops...

BEST ARTS & CRAFT SUPPLIES

Golden Ole

SAN CLEMENTE ART SUPPLY 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com

Patti Herdell approached local artist Rick Delante before she opened the San Clemente Art Supply, our town’s go-to for framing, high-end paper and every kind of art supply you should need. With his guidance, Herdell achieved candy-store status for artists. Their variety is likened to the largest box of Crayolas you’ve ever seen—the possibilities here are endless, with classes and workshops to boot. —CS

Silver Ole

MICHAELS

937 Avenida Pico, 949.940.0465, www.michaels.com

NOMINEES: Drew Brophy Art Studio • Designs by Nature • The Humble Abode • Strands Knitting Studio • Russell Stationers • The Third Eye 2009 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Art Supply; Silver: Michaels

BEST WINE SELECTION

Golden Ole

SAN CLEMENTE WINE COMPANY 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com

Barney Doyle had fallen in love with wine while living in the Bay area and visiting Napa, “back in the ’70s when it was fun and free-willing,” he said. His wife, Rachael shared in his passion for wine and they started the SC Wine Company as a $15 and under wine shop. Now they offer economical and high-end wines and beers, but most of their finds are kept under $20. —CS

Silver Ole

THE CELLAR 156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Antoine’s Café • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Bob’s Fine Wines • Bob’s Liquors • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • Dad’s Liquor • Enne Cucina Italiana • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Larry’s Market & Deli • Nick’s San Clemente • Ralph’s • Sears • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • The Melting Pot • The Shore • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • Trader Joe’s • Vine 2009 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Wine Company; Silver: The Cellar

ANGEL WINGS

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.5258

This boutique on Del Mar definitely has a vintage, bohemian vibe to it—though they really do have something for every woman. The jewelry ranges from looking like your great-grandmother’s coolest heirlooms to edgy or leather and hip. Pick out an entire ensemble for a cocktail party, crazy night out or lounging around the house. —CS

Silver Ole

ERBA (TIE)

114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com

Though Erba sells bath, beauty and home products, their jewelry is striking for its unique and artistic designs. From natural and metallic pieces, organic in style, to more luxurious looking items, Erba has a selection for all ages and any type of flair, elegance and chic. —CS

Golden Ole

Silver Ole

PARADISE JEWELERS (TIE)

808 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com

VARIANT 112 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6264

NOMINEES: 16 Underground • 20 Unda • Amazon Tan • Angel Wings • Bliss • Blue Eyed Girl • Bunny’s Secrets • C’Siren Day Spa • Charise Erickson Custom Jewelry • Cherry Shoes • Coin Store & Estate Jewelers • Designs By Nature • Fresh Produce • Gallery 104 • Gino’s Jewelers • Habit: Men and Women’s Clothing • Hobie Surf Shop • The Humble Abode • Jewelry Forever • Melrose in the O.C. • On the Rocks Jewelers • Paradise Jewelers II • Plum Precious Antiques • Rascals Ladies Under and Overwear • Re-Finds Jewelry • The Third Eye • Rocket Jewelry Box Inc • Salon Bleu • S & A Wholesale Fashion • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Sand & Sea Jewelry • Slavick’s Gold Creations • San Clemente Antiques • San Clemente Farmers Market • Villa Cucina 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Paradise Jewelers; Silver: Erba

SALON ZINNIA AND LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE 641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com

NOMINEES: 16 Underground • 20 Unda • Avenue Accents • BC Surf Shop • Bijou Boutique • Blazin Ride Shop • Bliss Boutique • Blue Eyed Girl • Cherry Shoes and Clothing • Coral Thrift Shop • Cycle Werks • Fits & Fashion • Fresh Produce • Habit • Heavenly Couture • Hobie Surf Shop • Lulu’s Boutique • Melrose in the O.C.• Minart’s Hair Fashion and Boutique • Pamela Li Boutique • Petit Bonhomme • Possibilities Boutique • Rascal’s Ladies Over and Underwear • San Clemente Antiques • Sun Kiss’d Tan and Boutique • Swirl Boutique • T. Patterson Surfboards • Trestles Surf Outlet • Variant • Walmart • Wild at Heart 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Angel Wings; Silver: Hobie Surf Shop

Golden Ole

Rick Dunning moved his full-service jewelry business here five years ago, but he’s been a jeweler for 31 years. “I saw a need for a good jewelry store here in town,” he said. Now Paradise, who offers appraisals, cleaning, custom designing and repairing, is one of the largest estate buyers in the area. —CS

BEST CLOTHING

Golden Ole

Paradise Jewelers. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

BEST KIDS’ APPAREL & TOYS San Clemente Wine Company. Courtesy photo

Golden Ole

MAC & MADI

203 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6226, www.macandmadi.com

The interior of Mac & Madi, the unique children’s boutique, is like the stuff of any kid’s dream. From toys, stuffed animals to books, shoes, clothes (newborn – 14 for girls and newborn – 7 for boys), they’ve got everything. And with free gift-wrapping, it’s no wonder locals opt out of the mall. “They’d rather be here.

It’s a one-stop-shop,” said manager, Kim Sisneros. —CS

Silver Ole

PETIT BONHOMME

147 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.3651, www.shoppetitbonhomme.com

NOMINEES: 20 Unda • Blazin Ride Shop • Fairytales Children’s Boutique • Hobie Surf Shop • OC Tykes • Plush Station • Russell Stationer’s • Surf City Comics • Walmart • Wee Peats • Wild At Heart 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Mac & Madi; Silver: Petit Bonhomme

BEST PLACE FOR BUYING AND VIEWING ART

Golden Ole

BEACHFIRE BAR AND GRILL

Silver Ole

SAN CLEMENTE ART GALLERY

204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com

Walk into the BeachFire and it’s like a mosaic of paintings by local artists—quite literally, wall-to-wall beach art. BeachFire curator, Brian Frabasillo hand-picks every artist and rotates them constantly “because they sell so much,” said manager, Dawn Frey. So next time you feel like happy hour, remember to look around! —CS

BeachFire’s walls are covered with pieces by local artists. Photo by Jasmine Smith

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100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com

NOMINEES: A-Frame • Art N’ Frame • Captain Mauri’s Counterculture • Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • C’Siren Day Spa • Delanty Fine Art, Inc. • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Gallery 104 • The Humble Abode • Kona Gallery and Photojournalism Center • Merrill Paint and Decorating Center • Michaels • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Antiques • Thump Gallery • Villa Cucina 2009 WINNERS: Gold: BeachFire Bar and Grill; Silver: San Clemente Art Gallery

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BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS DOWNTOWN FLOWERS

Golden Ole PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.7062, www.downtownflowersoc.com

Owner Krista Jon Levandofsky loves what she does, and it shows. After opening Downtown Flowers in 2004, Krista’s personalized touch and diverse assortment of flowers has helped her win her fourth straight Golden Ole as SC’s favorite flower shop. “For me it’s a place of escape, inspiration, fulfillment, with peace and chaos in creativity all at once,” says Krista on her Web site. “I love the ambience of the downtown feeling, with the locals passing by and all the bright eyed tourists.” —NG FLOWER & FRIENDS

Silver Ole

1844 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.9150, www.flowersandfriendssanclemente.com

NOMINEES: Enchanted • English Garden • Farmers Market • Flower Company of San Clemente • The Humble Abode • Inga’s Blooms • San Clemente Florist • Karen’s • Kimberly’s • San Clemente Wildflower • Shore Gardens Nursery • The Beach Flower • Trader Joes 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Downtown Flowers; Silver: Flower & Friends

BEST SURFBOARD SHAPER

Golden Ole

T. PATTERSON

1409 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022; 907 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022; www.tpattersonsurfboards.com

Timmy Patterson learned his craft first from his father, Ronald, then later from surfboard shaping legends Dale Velzy and Terry Martin while working at the Hobie factory in Dana Point. After opening his first surfboard shop in 2000, Timmy and his wife Vicki opened a new shop this past year with a more diverse line of products including wetsuits, apparel and surfboards. —NG BILL STEWART/STEWART SURFBOARDS

Silver Ole Villa Cucina’s Aimee Berberet. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST HOME DÉCOR AND FURNISHINGS

Golden Ole

VILLA CUCINA

124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com

Villa Cucina’s array of home décor offerings and furnishings is vast and many. From table settings, to wine glasses, to French countryside-styled cutting tables and storage—and everything in between—Villa Cucina is quite literally stocked to the walls.

Never does Villa Cucina look better than around the holidays, when it comes alive with holiday items galore. —NG

Silver Ole

CHRISTOPHER-LEE LTD. (TIE)

Silver Ole

LUXE (TIE)

158 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.0265

107 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.4700, www.luxehomefurnishings.net

NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Backstreet Home Décor • Bamboo and Beyond • Comfortable Sleep and Home • Concept Design Furniture • Cottage Bliss • C’Siren Day Spa • Denault’s True Value Hardware • The Humble Abode • La Casa Verde de Granada • Lowe’s Home Improvement • Pier 1 Imports • Re-Finds • San Clemente Antiques • South Coast Furniture Mattress and Secondhand Store • Stanford Court Antiques • Urban Renewal Décor 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Luxe

BEST STORE TO BUY THE PERFECT GIFT

Golden Ole

VILLA CUCINA

124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com

Villa Cucina has established itself as a “must-stop” for anyone looking for everything from Christmas ornaments to large pieces of furniture. The shop’s friendly staff is quick to help, and co-owner Christina Morgan (a San Clemente native) and her team do a great job adding new products to the store. Villa Cucina proudly stays open later than most stores on Del Mar, staying open until 9 p.m. every Tuesday-Saturday. —NG

Silver Ole

ERBA LLC. (TIE)

Silver Ole

THE HUMBLE ABODE (TIE)

114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com

228 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.8018, www.thehumbleabode.net

NOMINEES: 20 Unda • Angel Wings • Arcade Camera • Bamboo and Beyond • Blazin Ride Shop • Bliss Boutique • C’Siren Day Spa • California Cove • ChristopherLee Ltd. • Cottage Bliss • Denault’s True Value Hardware • Fired Up San Clemente • Gifts on Del Mar • Hobie Surf Shop • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Kelly’s Hallmark Shop • La Casa Verde de Granada • Luxe • Melrose in the O.C. • Oliver’s Olive Oil and Balsamic Tasting Gallery • Paradise Jewelers • Petit Bonhomme • Pier 1 Imports • Rainbow Sandals • Rascal’s Ladies Over and Underwear • Re-Finds • Trestles Surf Outlet • Russell Stationers • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Antiques • Swirl Boutique • The Cellar • The Collective: Boutique and Showroom • Three Dog Bakery • Tuesday Morning • Variant • Walmart 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Erba

2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com

NOMINEES: Andrew Loska • BC Surf Shop • Bill Stewart • Brad Howe • Matt Biolos/Mayhem • Cole Simler • Donald Brink • REVOLVERhydrocraft • The Factory • Garth Day • Hamish Graham Designs • Hobie Surfboards • Terry Martin • Terry Senate 2009 WINNERS: Gold: T. Patterson; Silver: Bill Stewart

BEST SURF SHOP

Golden Ole

HOBIE SURF SHOP

100 El Camino Real, 949.542.3355; 151 Avenida Del Mar, 949.542.3400, www.hobie.com

It’s back-to-back Golden Ole’s for Hobie Surf Shop on the corner of El Camino Real and Avenida Del Mar. Featuring a vast array of the top surf apparel brands, the shop includes some of the hottest new brands including LRG and Olukai, according to assistant manager Shevon Franz. “We’re fashion forward and hip,” said Franz, “and feature a range of clothing for all ages.

Make sure to check out Hobie’s “Green Room” just down Avenida Del Mar featuring organic products and Pantagonia. —NG

Silver Ole

STEWART SURFBOARDS

2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com

NOMINEES: Bashams • BC Surf Shop • Blazin Ride Shop • Catalyst Surf Shop • Dewey Weber Surfboards • Exile Skimboards • Fluid Surf and Sport • Icons of Surf • OC Surf and Sport • Republik of Kalifornia • Rip Curl Surf Center • San Clemente Surfboards and Art • T. Patterson Surf Shop • Trestles Surf Outlet 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Surf Shop; Silver: BC Surf Shop

BEST ANTIQUES

Golden Ole

SAN CLEMENTE ANTIQUES

214 Avenida Del Mar #B, 949.498.2992

Owner Brenda Foster describes her antique shop as one that “tastefully blends the old with the new.” Foster’s store features 26 different vendors, each with a “mini-store within my store,” she said. Pet and kid-friendly (Foster admits to loving kids and pets—and gladly hands out treats to both), the vendors at SC Antiques offer everything from mid-Century items to vintage estate jewelry. “We have a really good mix, and I think that’s what makes us successful,” said Foster. “I have some wonderful people who are really talented, and we keep our prices low.”

—NG

Silver Ole San Clemente Antiques. Photo by Heidi Mefferd

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THE HUMBLE ABODE

228 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.8018, www.thehumbleabode.net

NOMINEES: Backstreet Home Décor • Concept Design Furniture • Home Consignment Design Center • La Casa Verde de Granada • Pac-Rat • Re-Finds • South Coast Furniture Mattress & Secondhand • Stanford Court Antiques 2009 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Antiques; Silver: Stanford Court Antiques

Hobie employee Cressita Bowman with manager Courtney Bucho.

Photo by Jasmine Smith

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

Services on the To-Do List...

BEST HAIR SALON

Golden Ole

SALON ZINNIA AND LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE 641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com

SC Times readers crowned Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique Best Hair Salon this year. The full-service salon features not only cuts for every age and gender but also fancies them up with up-dos, color, gloss treatments and perms. The Camino de los Mares business also carries an elite selection of hair product brands for color and care. —SNG

Silver Ole

SALON INCOGNITO

119 - 121 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.1218, www.salonincognito.com

NOMINEES: Hair Affair Salon • Alicia’s Barber Shop and Hair Styling Salon • Carlisle’s Hair Design • Changes Hair Salon • Clips Curls • Ermanno DeVito Hair Studio • Friends Hair • Great Clips • Hair Sculptors Beauty Salon • S.C. Happy Hair Salon • Head Games Salon • Hairtique • Kreative Hair Design • Ma Jolie Salon • Nancy’s Hair Salon • North Beach Hair Studio • Rafael’s Hair Salon • Rtistic Salon • Salon 221• Salon Eventides • Salon Bamboo • Salon Bleu • Salon Rendez-Vous • Salon Sauvage Day Spa and Boutique • Sanctuary Salon • Shake It Design • Stud Cuts • Supercuts • Studio B • Syrens Hair Parlor and Gallery • The Haircutters • Toba Salon • V’s Barber 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Bamboo; Silver: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique

BEST MANICURE & PEDICURE

Golden Ole

MINGEE’S NAILS & SPA

132 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.0070; 164 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1818

With two locations on Avenida Del Mar, customers never have to wait to find a seat Mingee’s Nails & Spa. The popular manicure and pedicure spot offers 55 different services for those in need of a little — or a lot — of pampering. —SNG

Silver Ole The ladies of Salon Zinnia. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

Golden Ole

SALON ZINNIA AND LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE 641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com

SALON ZINNIA AND LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE 641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com

NOMINEES: Allure Nails & Spa • Beauty Nails • Bellagio Nail Spa • Fashion Nails • Final Touch Nails & Spa • Friendly Nails & Spa • Happy Nails & Spa • Kim’s Nail & Spa • Lee Lee’s Nail Salon and Purse Boutique • Lisa’s Nails • Ma Jolie Salon • Nails

by Karen Dispenza • Organic Nail Spa • Passion Nails & Spa • The Perfect Ten • Professional Nail & Spa • Revol Nail Spa • Salon Bamboo • San Clemente Hair Company • Sweet Escape Natural Nails & Pedicures • Talega Day Spa 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Mingee’s Nails & Spa; Silver: Talega Day Spa

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Golden Ole

SAN CLEMENTE GYM

123 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.1007, www.sanclementegym.com

Truly a neighborhood gym, San Clemente Gym doesn’t weigh itself down with pretensions. That’s just one of the reason’s SC Gym consistently receives readers’ approval. Members mean business when they work out, but that doesn’t mean the atmosphere lacks friendliness. In fact, customers say they are treated like family. The facility also carries plenty of the latest equipment and recently opened a daycare center. —SNG

Silver Ole

FITNESS 19

93 Via Pico Plaza, 949.369.1999, www.fitness19.com

NOMINEES: Asana Fit • Boogie Box Fitness • Curves • Fitness 19 • Fitness Elite for Women • Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu • Guillobel Brazilian Jiu Jitsu • Gymboree • LeanCore Fitness • OC CrossFit • Ole Hanson Beach Club Swimming Pool • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • Pacific Strength • San Clemente Beach Trail • Seacrest Apartments • The Beach • YMCA 2009 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Gym; Silver: (TIE) Fitness Elite, Cross Fit SC, OC Cross Fit

BEST PET GROOMING/ PET CARE

Golden Ole

MIKE’S PET CARE

Silver Ole

VIP PET SPA

949.246.3835, www.mikespetcare.com

For the second year in a row, Mike’s Pet Care took top honors in this category. A registered veterinary technician, Mike Russell offers his mobile service to pet owners in San Clemente and beyond. Testimonials on his website sing his praises for his technical knowledge and compassion. With this year’s Golden Ole, he has earned not only their trust but also their loyalty.

—SNG 810 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.7473

BEST BARBER SHOP

VILLA CUCINA 124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com

NOMINEES: 20 Unda • Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn • Albertsons • Amazon Tan • Ammcor • Angel Wings • Antoine’s Café • BC Surf Shop • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Big O Tires • Bijou Boutique • Billy’s Meats, Seafood & Deli • Blue Eyed Girl • Board & Brew • Bob’s Auto Repair • Bonded Cleaners • C’Siren Day Spa • Café 207 • Café Calypso • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Carisma Mobile Car Wash • Cassano’s Pizza • Chronic Taco • Enterprise Rent-A-Car • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Cox Communications • Crispins Comfort Food Restaurant • Dave Wert Auto Repair • DeNault’s True Value Hardware • Doug Echelberger Real Estate • Downtown Flowers • Douglas Printing • EZ Lube • El Camino Auto • Erba • Fatburger • Final Touch Nail & Spa • The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Friendly Computer Service • Go Natural Gas, Inc • Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School • Hamilton Home Care • Hobie Surf Shop • Holley’s Tire Service • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • The Humble Abode • Humphrey’s Sandwich Shop • Irons in the Fire • Jacobi’s on the Alley • Jay’s Car Repair • Jimmy’s Tire Center • K & S Cleaners • La Siesta Restaurant • Lavender Lounge Tea Company • Los Patios • Lowe’s Home Improvement • Ma Jolie Salon • New Mandarin Garden • Metagenics • Mike’s Pet Care • Mr. Pete’s Burger • Mongkut Thai Restaurant • Nic’s Vacuum and Small Appliance • Nick’s San Clemente • Ole’s Tavern • The Pac-Rat • Paradise Jewelers • Paradise II Jewelers • Pet Treasures • Petite Bonhomme • San Clemente Police Services • Pier Shack & Grill • Radio Shack • Ralphs • Rascals Ladies Outer & Underwear • Re-finds • Rose’s Donuts & Cafe • Salon Incognito • San Clemente Art Supply • San Clemente Auto • San Clemente Plumbing • San Clemente Wine Company • S.C. Cafe • S.C. Donuts • SC Financial Service • Sears • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shadetree Automotive • Shorecliffs Golf Club • South County Maintenance Service • Sam’s Shoes & Shoe Repair • Stillwater Cafe • Stud Cuts • Sun Kiss’d Tan & Boutique • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfin’ Donuts Coffeehouse & Grill • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Talega Animal Hospital • Talega Day Spa • Tarbell Realtors • Doug Moore’s Muffler • Bread Gallery • The Cellar • Three County Insurance • Three Dog Bakery • Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli • Trader Joes • Trestle’s Surf Outlet • Variant Clothing • Velvet Yogurt • Verizon Wireless • Vine • VIP Pet Spa • Wahoo’s Fish Tacos • Zpizza

BEST GYM

NOMINEES: Aussie Pet Mobile • Avenida Animal Hospital • Camp Bow Wow • Critters Pet Grooming • Curbside Cuties Mobile Services • Dog Gone Dirty • Manicured Mutt Grooming Salon • Pacific Coast Veterinary • Paws Pet Resort • The Pet Palace • Pet Treasures • San Clemente Vet • Talega Animal Hospital • Three Dog Bakery • Veterinary House Calls 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Mike’s Pet Care; Silver: VIP Pet Spa

What do you get when you bring together a salon, spa and boutique? Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique, of course. Patrons can pick a trendy top and jewelry at the boutique and then have their hair done, nails manicured and back massaged all under one roof. The Camino de los Mares salon has customers covered, and they responded by naming Salon Zinnia the first recipient in this new category. —SNG

Silver Ole

Owner of SC Gym, Eric Lucy, with trainer Todd Hentsch. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Golden Ole

V’S BARBERSHOP (TIE)

Golden Ole

STUD CUTS (TIE)

Silver Ole

SEÑOR BARBERS

802 Avenida Talega, 949.429.7770, www.vbarbershop.com

A throwback to earlier times, V’s Barbershop — with its oldschool chairs and shoeshine service, makes the Talega shop a hit with customers. The business has steadily earned a local following since opening in 1999 and this year earned a Golden Ole. The barbershop has traditional cuts plus services like a hot lather shave, a facial and face massage and trims on beards and moustaches. —SNG 124 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2456

Loyal fans propelled Stud Cuts to tie for a Golden Ole as Best Barber Shop this year. Their tagline: Sexy Military & Men’s Haircuts Since 1993. Not surprisingly, the South El Camino shop caters to the military but their services go beyond. They offer regulation cuts, full-scissor cuts and even a weekly buzz cut. The indulgent can choose a face shave for $30 and up, but remember to make an appointment. —SNG

Yukika Hayashi, aka Mingee. Photo by Jasmine Smith

401 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.0762

NOMINEES: Alicia’s Barber Shop and Hair Styling Salon • Bladewerks • Changes Hair Salon • Downtown Barber Shop • Hair Cutters • Jerry’s Barber Shop • JP’s • Martina’s Beauty Salon • Popeye’s For Hair • Ray’s Barber Place • Salon 221• Salon Bamboo • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Salon Bleu • Shore Cliff Barber Shop • Studio B • The Haircutters 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Señor Barbers; Silver: V’s Barbershop

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

BEST DRY CLEANER

Golden Ole

BONDED CLEANERS

1225 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.1183, www.bonded-cleaners.com

A five-time winner, Bonded Cleaners has as many Ole Awards as we do spots on our shirt after a spaghetti dinner. But the cleaner’s ability to get those spots out is what keeps bringing home the gold for owner Scott English. “We’re consistent, very nice to the public and we keep costs down,” he says. —JV

Silver Ole

K & S CLEANERS

114 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.5424, www.sanclementedrycleaners.com

NOMINEES: Celebrity Cleaner • Cleaners 2000 • El Camino Cleaners • Hillside Cleaners • Nelson’s Cleaners • Pico Cleaners • Presidio Cleaners • Seaside Cleaners • Silver Cleaners • Sunny Fresh Cleaners • Talega Cleaners • Thank You Cleaners 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Bonded Cleaners; Silver: K&S Cleaners

BEST LODGING

BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO

Golden Ole

ASANAFIT

204 Avenida Granada, 949.492.0110, www.asanafit.com

A Silver winner last year, AsanaFit grabs the gold this year after adding a second studio. AsanaFit uses dance, yoga, fitness and mediation to create not only a healthy body, but a “true health and deeper spiritual connection,” too. But ancient practices don’t mean there’s no modern touches: Look for AsanaFit on Facebook, where the studio advertises great specials. —JV

Silver Ole

BELLA PILATES

802 Avenida Talega, Ste. 104, 949.388.2747, www.bellapilatesstudio.com

NOMINEES: A Sacred Space Yoga & Meditation • Body Awareness Physical Therapy • City of San Clemente Yoga with Jessica Seabern • City of San Clemente Yoga with Nicole Bailey • Fitness Elite for Women • Ole Hanson Beach Club • San Clemente Boot Camp • San Clemente Senior Center • The Yoga Spot 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Bella Pilates; Silver: AsanaFIT

BEST SPA FOR MASSAGES, ETC.

Golden Ole

The San Clemente Inn. Photo by Jasmine Smith

Golden Ole

THE SAN CLEMENTE INN

2600 Avenida Del Presidente, 949.492.6103, www.sanclementeinn.com

A great location and good prices push The San Clemente Inn to the gold medal in this year’s Oles. The Inn is a timeshare that rents rooms nightly as well. A past winner as “Best Breakfast,” the San Clemente Inn qualifies as a best value—a special under way now has rooms at $75, $85 and $95 a night. And now that they’re on top, San Clemente Inn is working to stay there—one of the four buildings is undergoing renovation. —JV

Silver Ole

BEST CAR REPAIR

Golden Ole

TALEGA DAY SPA

1161 Puerta del Sol, Ste. 110, 949.429.5757, www.talegadayspa.com

A back-to-back Gold Medal winner, Talega Day Spa mixes the atmosphere and appointments of Old Tuscany with modern massage techniques and equipment. The spa focuses on the “art of relaxation,” and the concept of “giving back to oneself” through massage, skin care, and body care. They offer everything from foot treatments to whole-body rejuvenation. And some Valentine’s Day specials, too. —JV

Silver Ole

Shadetree Automotive’s (l-r) Will Curtis, Dan Shaw and owner Paul Huffman.

Photo by Jasmine Smith

C’SIREN DAY SPA

312 Avenida de la Estrella, 949.498.7700, www.csirendayspa.com

NOMINEES: 5th Elements Day Spa • A Beautiful You • AsanaFIT • Asia America Acupuncture & Herb Institute, Inc • Deina Deal • Kim Lee-Thorp: Massage, Nutrition & Doula Service • Massage Envy • Now and Zen Wellness Center • Rancho San Clemente Tennis & Fitness Center • Richard C. Roth, DC Chiropractic • Salon Bamboo • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Seaside Skin Care Medi Spa • Simple Touch Skin Care • Waves Beyond Skin Care 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Talega Day Spa; Silver: C’Siren Day Spa

SHADETREE AUTOMOTIVE

1635 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6470, www.shadetreeautomotive.com

The old shady tree in back is gone, but the great service and trustworthy employees remain at Shadetree Automotive.

Owner Paul Huffman, who bought the shop in 1975, credits his employees for the honors. The average employee has worked at Shadetree a decade, but they also continue to take classes and seminars to stay current on automotive issues. —JV

Silver Ole

BOB’S AUTO REPAIR (TIE)

Silver Ole

FRANK’S AUTO COLLISION (TIE)

219 Calle De Los Molinos, 949.492.4004

2101 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.4801, www.franksautocollision.com

NOMINEES: A & R Auto Body and Paint • Arnold’s Auto Repair • Auto Medic • Beach Cities Auto Collision • Big O Tires • Bill Brewster Automotive • Carlos Auto Repair • Christian Auto • Coastline Automotive • Dave Wert Auto Repair • Discount Tire Center • El Camino Automotive & Tire Center • Frank’s Foreign Car Service • Jay’s Car Repair • Jimenez Auto Center • Jimmy’s Tire Center • Klink’s Auto Repair • Littlepage Automotive • RJ’s • Roy’s Auto Repair and Detail • Ruben’s Imports Auto Repair • San Clemente Auto Center • San-O-Mechanic • Shorecliff’s Auto Services • Stanley’s Exhaust Tech • Star Auto Glass/Windshield Replacement • Victoria Auto Repair • West Coast Automotive 2009 WINNERS: Gold: El Camino Auto & Tire Center; Silver: Shadetree Automotive

HOLIDAY INN

111 S. Ave. De La Estrella, 949.361.3000, www.holidayinn.com

NOMINEES: Always Inn San Clemente • Beachcomber Motel • Best Western Casablanca Inn • Casa Tropicana Inn at the Pier • Comfort Suites San Clemente • Hampton Inn & Suites • Holiday Inn Express • Patriots’ Motel • San Clemente Cove Resort • San Clemente Little Inn by the Beach Resort • Sea Horse Resort • Villa Del Mar Inn 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Casa Tropicana Boutique Beach Front Inn; Silver: Best Western Casablanca

BEST SURFBOARD DING REPAIR

Golden Ole

DING DR. SURFBOARD REPAIR

Silver Ole

COOLBREAZE

949.294.4741, www.dingdrx.com

As a shop, the Ding Dr. is a newcomer, but they can make your board look new again, too. We took a Craigslist longboard in looking like it’d been dropped out of the back of a moving truck and the guys at Ding Dr. rebuilt the nose, patched the rails, matched the color and returned a stick we’re proud to tote to Trails—they even left us enough money for parking. —JV 1307 Calle Valle, 949.369.5469, www.coolbreazesurfboards.com

NOMINEES: Aaron’s Ding Repair • Basham’s • BC Surf Shop • Bill Burns • Black Duck • Brad Howe • Catalyst • Chelu • CoolBreaze • Danny Brawner • Donald Brink • Jed Noll Surfboards • Paul Carter • Rip Curl Surf Center • Stewart Surfboards • T Patterson • Terry Senate • The Factory/Basham’s 2009 WINNERS: Gold: CoolBreaze; Silver: Stewart’s Surfboards

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Nick Horobec and Randall Kramer own and operate Ding Dr Surfboard Repair. Courtesy photo

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS 2010

Getting Outside...

BEST BEACH

Golden Ole

T STREET Five years of asking residents for San Clemente’s “Best Of,” and five years of listing T Street as “Best Beach.” Great surf, convenient parking, bathrooms and a snack bar all combine to make T Street tops. And with the city rebuilding the iconic pedestrian bridge that gets you there, we expect T Street to remain top of the list, too. —JV

Silver Ole

SAN CLEMENTE STATE BEACH/CALAFIA

NOMINEES: 204 Beach • The Pier • Cotton’s Point • Cyprus Shores • Dog Patch • Hole in the Fence • Lasuen/Lost Winds • Linda Lane • North Beach • North Gate • Old Man’s • Palizada • Poche • Riviera • San Onofre State Beach • Trestles 2009 WINNERS: Gold: T Street; Silver: San Clemente Pier

BEST SURF BREAK

Golden Ole

TRESTLES The famous cobblestone break known as Trestles is a favorite among world-class professional and local surfers alike. The sight of the only mainland U.S. Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) Prime event on the World Tour is known for producing some of the most consistent and quality waves on the planet. Trestles’ situation within San Onofre State Beach, and its variety of surf spots—Lowers, Uppers and Middles—responds well to a variety of swell directions and the remote parking, long walk to the beach and lack of amenities keeps the lineup relatively clear of inexperienced surfers.—AS

Silver Ole

T STREET

NOMINEES: 204 Beach • Calafia (State Park) • Church Beach • Cotton’s Point • Lasuen/Lost Winds • Middles • Old Man’s • Riviera • The Pier • San Onofre State Beach/Lower Trestles • San Onofre State Beach/Upper Trestles 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Trestles; Silver: T Street

Linda Lane. Photo by Jasmine Smith

BEST PARK TO TAKE THE KIDS

Golden Ole

LINDA LANE

Silver Ole

SAN GORGONIO PARK

400 Linda Lane, www.san-clemente.org

So what if it doesn’t have a public restroom? Linda Lane Park is a repeat winner as our ‘Best Place to Take the Kids’ category—and $40,000 in new play equipment is on the way.

Linda Lane offers beach access—with a ramp—a grassy area, picnic tables, and a drinking fountain. All that and an ocean view, too. —JV 2916 Via San Gorgonio, www.san-clemente.org

NOMINEES: Calafia Park • Beach • Forster Ranch Park • Ralph’s Skate Park • La Pata/Vista Hermosa Sports Park • Leslie Park • Liberty Park • Lobo Elementary School • Marblehead Park • Max Berg Park • North Beach Playground • Old Man’s • Parque Del Mar • Rancho San Clemente • Richard T Steed Memorial Park • The San Clemente Beach Trail • Talega Park • Tierra Grande 2009 WINNERS: Gold: Linda Lane; Silver: San Gorgonio Park

BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT OF TOWNERS

Golden Ole Lower Trestles. Photo by Jeremiah Klein

BEST GOLF COURSE

Golden Ole

SAN CLEMENTE MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.8380, www.sanclementegc.com

Silver Ole

TALEGA GOLF CLUB

990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.6226, www.talegagolfclub.com

NOMINEES: Bella Collina • Shorecliffs Golf Course 2009 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Municipal Golf Course; Silver: Talega Golf Club

18

The driving range at Municipal Golf Course. Photo by Jasmine Smith

611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com

San Clemente is known for its beautiful beaches and the Pier is even part of the city’s official seal. So what better place to take an out-of-towner than an award-winning restaurant on the picturesque Pier? And with the option of the full restaurant on the south side or bar on the north, The Fisherman’s offers the perfect place to enjoy a meal or drink while soaking in the San Clemente flavor. —JV

Silver Ole

Another perennial winner in the Ole Awards, it’s as hard for another course to knock SC Muni out of the top spot as it is for a weekend duffer to sink a hole-in-one. From the grounds crew to the guys in the starter shack to the city Golf Course Committee, everyone involved deserves one of those polite golf-claps for keeping the city’s 18-hole course in top shape. Oh, and about that hole-in-one; Golf Digest once put the odds for an amateur at 1-in-12,750 shots, while other sources upped them to one in 45,000 attempts. —JV

THE FISHERMAN’S RESTAURANT AND BAR

SAN CLEMENTE PIER

Avenida Victoria and Avenida Del Mar

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Café • Avenida Del Mar • Beach/San Clemente Beach Trail • BeachFire Bar and Grill • Billy’s Meats, Seafood & Deli • Board & Brew • Cabrillo Playhouse • Casa Romantica Cultural Center & Gardens • Café 207 • Café Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Cassano’s Pizza • Chronic Tacos • C’Siren Day Spa • Gallery 104 • Hapa J’s • The Humble Abode • Hulaville Island Cafe and Company • Ichibiri Japanese Restaurant • Iva Lee’s Restaurant • Jacobi’s on the Alley • La Gallette Creperie • Park Semper Fi Marine Monument • Mr Pete Burger • Nick’s San Clemente • North Beach • Ole’s Tavern • Pedro’s Tacos • Pizza Port • The Riders Club • Rocco’s Restaurant • Russell Stationers • San Clemente Antiques • San Clemente Art Gallery • San Clemente Wine Company • San Onofre State Beach • Sandpiper Motel • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Course • Sonny’s Pizza and Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Stud Cuts • Surfing Heritage Foundation • Sushi Gallery Miki • T Street • Talega Golf Club • The Cellar • The Riders Club • The Shore • Three Dog Bakery • Top of the World • Trestles • Villa Cucina • Village Mediterranean Rim 2009 WINNERS: Gold: The Fishermans Restaurant and Bar; Silver: San Clemente Pier

wwww.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT

SC Times Restaurant Spotlight

By Andrea Swayne

Beach Pit BBQ

32371 Golden Lantern, Ocean Ranch Plaza Suite G, Laguna Niguel, 949.496.RIBS (7427), www.beachpitbbq.com Best Known For: Dry rubbed meats smoked at a low heat for 12 hours with pecan and hickory wood Most Popular Item: Pulled pork sandwich served “North Carolina style” with a scoop of homemade coleslaw on top Minor League Baseball player turned restaurateur Tim DeCinces brings his brand of real Southern barbecue with a California twist to the tri-city area with the opening of his sixth Beach Pit BBQ restaurant. The menu is chock-full of traditional Southern fare like tender ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked turkey and chicken as well as great starters and sides like catfish nuggets, fried okra, fried pickles, hushpuppies, mac n’ cheese and coleslaw. “All of our meats are smoked slow and low, just like great barbecue should be,” said manager Ryan Warren. Try the slider trio—any three meats on sweet Hawaiian rolls topped with sweet or spicy sauce or the newest addition to the menu, the B.P.L.T. sandwich, made with house-smoked bacon, fried pickles, lettuce, tomato and their very own California Gold Mustard Sauce.

For a California take on barbecue, order up a fresh salad, wrap, burrito or tacos made with your choice of slow smoked meats. Beach Pit BBQ also offers a selection of wine and beer—featuring Shiner Bock and their signature tallboy Pabst Blue Ribbon served wrapped (just for fun) in a brown paper bag.

Manager Ryan Warren with the Beach Pit BBQ Slider trio. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Price Range: $0.99 to $19.95 Reservations: Not necessary

Payment: Cash and credit card Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week

About our reviews: In each issue we’ll highlight universally critical points including “Most Popular Dish,” “Best Known For” and “Price Range.” But most importantly, we’re inviting you to participate each week and rate the restaurant based on your experiences. Go to www.sanclementetimes.com and under “Restaurant Guide” share your thoughts about this week’s restaurant.

(Cont. from page 10)

monday31

wednesday02

AT THE MOVIES Blue Valentine

forecast: sunny • high: 68° low: 44° forecast: mostly sunny • high: 72° low: 43°

Felisha

Kids Storytime at the Casa

7 p.m.-10 p.m. Female artist at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

10 a.m. Casa Romantica hosts storytime for youngsters ages 3-5; free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

Comedy Show

Dupp Brothers

9:30 p.m. Comedians get some laughs at Hennessey’s every Monday night. Free. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

$5 Mondays

5 p.m.-8 p.m. Join SC Wine Company for Happy Hour featuring 3 wines for $5, glasses of selected wines for $5 and mugs of beer from $5 & up! 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

Smokey Karaoke

8 p.m. Sing fearlessly behind a cloud of smoke at BeachFire and enjoy Mojito Monday. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

Family Pajama Storytime

7 p.m. The Dana Point Library hosts storytime for kids and families. Wear your PJs! 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

tuesday01 forecast: sunny • high: 68° low: 43°

2-for-1 Tuesdays

Half price on all fishing trips, whale watching and other adventures at Dana Wharf every Tuesday. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com

Poul Pedersen

7 p.m.-10 p.m. Lead singer of Missiles of October goes acoustic at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Ben Powell

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Pool & Karaoke

3 p.m.–close. Play pool for free at Knuckle Heads every Tuesday.

Karaoke starts at 9 p.m. 1717 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.2410.

Will Heard

9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

8 p.m. Live hippy hillbilly music at The Rib Joint. 34294 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.9500.

Old Capistrano Farmers Market

3 p.m.–7 p.m. Every Wednesday at El Camino Real and Yorba in San Juan Capistrano. 949.493.4700.

Comedy Night

9:30 p.m. Your chance to sing live at Molly Blooms Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 92672, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com.

Vine Wine Tasting & Food Pairing

7 p.m.–8 p.m. Educational wine tasting at Vine featuring four wines paired with food; $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

The Danimals

7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

Gypsy Groove

7 p.m.–11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Job Workshop

6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Workshop at the Dana Point Library. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.248.3593, www.danapoint.org.

Upcoming: February 5

Kimo West

8 p.m.-10 p.m. Live concert at Hulaville. Tickets $5. 2720 Camino Capistrano, San Clemente, 949.369.1905, www.hulavillecafe.com.

Upcoming: February 7

Valentine Delights

6:30 p.m. Chef Caroline Cazaumayou visits Antonie’s Cafe for a cooking class, dinner, recipes and wine. $50 each, prepayment required. 218 South El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763.

*For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com

Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams in Blue Valentine. © The Weinstein Company

And now for something a little different: the anti-romantic comedy. Two people in love, yet anything but happy at a certain point in their lives. “Blue Valentine” had been a film all over the film festival circuit in 2010, gaining praise and attention, but then surprisingly being slapped with an NC-17 rating by the Motion Pictures Association of America for just three brief sexual scenes. Director Derek Cianfrance and co-star/producers Ryan Gosling and Michelle Williams lobbied hard for a new R rating.

Fortunately, for the creators and viewers, their work paid off.

We can now appreciate one of the best films to be nominated at the Academy Awards next month.

In this modest indie film, we are given two very special and brilliant performances by two former teen stars. Gosling and Williams portray Dean and Cindy Pereira, a couple now in the midst of two, turbulent days of a marriage going on six years and with a 5-year-old daughter (Faith Wladyka). Between figuring out where it all started to get rocky and trying to reconnect intimately, the fear of failing as spouses and turning into their parents’ failure lay in the back of their minds. The story also crosscuts to their bittersweet meeting and courtship and Cindy’s former, unfortunate flame (Mike Vogel) and expresses how much they struggled to stay together.

“Blue Valentine” is a film 12 years in the making for documentary filmmaker Cianfrance. In his debut feature film, he has given us a piece of cinema that makes us ponder and cry.

It sticks with us long after we have reached the rather stunning end credits. If anyone deserves the nominations for Best Actor and Actress Oscars, they are Gosling and Williams. They manage to grasp the maturity and care of their characters between youth and parenthood. The pair never go over the top, and by doing so, they achieve subtlety. “Blue Valentine” might not be a feel-good film by some standards, but it is one to be appreciated in its bluntness and successful effort. SC —Megan Bianco January 27–February 2, 2011 • San Clemente Times • Page 13

SC LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

SC

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 Last week’s solution:

SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION SOLUTION

S a n C le m e n te

See today’s solution in next week’s issue.

LIFE’S A BEACH: By Shelley Murphy

Are You Ready?

W

Principal George Duarte, left, with automotive technology student Daniel Pollak, instructor Bob McCarroll and student Luc Rojas after their first-place finish in the Orange County Association of Car Dealer’s competition this weekend. Courtesy photo

Top of the Class Auto Students Finish First at OC Competition, Advance to Nationals

By Stacie N. Galang San Clemente Times

P

ractice made perfect for San Clemente High seniors Daniel Pollak and Luc Rojas.

The pair of automotive technology students bested a field of their peers Jan. 22 at the Orange County Automobile Dealers Association’s 18th annual Automotive Technology Competition.

“I was so excited,” said Pollak this week. “I was jumping all around.”

The students took home $15,000 each in scholarships, a digital multimeter and other giveaways. They will now represent OCADA at the national competition.

Rojas said the scholarship was the difference between going to a local community college and heading to a technical school.

“I’m going to a good school now,” said Rojas, who hopes to open his own repair shop some day.

It’s the first time since 2005 that students from San Clemente advanced to the national level, said Bob McCarroll, the long-time teacher of the school’s Automotive Technology Partnership Academy.

“I’m very excited and very proud of my students and how hard they worked,” he said.

“They put in a lot of hours for that win.”

McCarroll said the students worked every

day for about three months to prepare. They even spent their vacation time testing diagnosing and repairing car problems.

“While all the other kids were in bed dreaming of sugar plums during Christmas vacation, we were down here working on the car,” the teacher said.

As part of the competition, the students had to find the 25 problems with their competition car, and Pollak said they unearthed practically every one.

Rojas also credited McCarroll for his help with their win. Practice, luck and focus also helped them earn the top spot, he added.

“You’ve just got to really focus on what you’re doing and not let anything throw you off,” he said.

Pollak and Rojas will represent Orange County at the National Automotive Technology Competition in New York in April.

“I’ve had my heart set on it since I found out I was on the team,” Pollak said.

Rojas, too, is excited.

“I can’t wait,” the senior said.

Last year’s Orange County team won the national competition, said John Sackrison, executive director of the Orange County Automobile Dealers Association.

He said the association had great confidence in McCarroll and his students.

“We’re looking for a back-to-back win,” Sackrison said. SC

Page 14 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

atching recent television news coverage of hillside homes starting to slide down a slope onto Shorecliffs Golf Course, I suddenly became filled with fear.

No, we don’t live on Via Ballena and I don’t play golf, but as I watched weary residents evacuating their homes it dawned on me that my family has no emergency plan whatsoever.

It’s true, even though I know I’m terrible at throwing clothes into a suitcase at the last minute; packing on the fly has seen me arrive at my destination with a single sock, and toothpaste but no toothbrush (you get the idea).

I started stressing, what if I had only a few minutes to gather my belongings and get out, what would I pack if the city engineer red-tagged my house? I envisioned myself wasting all my allotted time searching for my two boys’ baby books (I know I put them somewhere safe) and leaving with a singular sock once again.

I decided to address my anxiety and ask for advice from a professional, so I contacted Jen Tucker, Emergency Planning Officer for the City of San Clemente for the past two and a half years.

“If residents have to leave their homes they may have minutes, hours, or days of advanced notice—depending on the type of disaster. I recommend that everyone make up a list ahead of time and keep it posted on the refrigerator or by the door. Make lists for evacuations under five minutes, thirty minutes, one hour, and one day, then note what you would take from your home. For example, five minutes would be: an emergency supply kit; a wallet or purse, medications, and a computer or laptop; at thirty minutes you might add on framed photos and artwork, certain items of clothing, bedding, and other essentials,” said Tucker.

Living in San Clemente we face the possibility of earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, tsunamis and, of course, fallout from the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS).

“We’re a community that has the potential for a lot of different kinds of disaster and there are things we can do to prepare for and mitigate the effects of a disaster. Being prepared with a kit is the first step. The next step is to protect your home or business by earthquake proofing and taking care of your slopes to protect against landslide and

wildfire,” Tucker said.

So, in addition to a plan we need to put together a kit too; and, according to the experts we should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least three days—this includes food, water, shelter and sanitation.

“Everyone should have a complete emergency supply kit that includes: three days of food and water; a flashlight; a battery powered radio; spare batteries; first aid supplies; cleaning supplies; a gas shut-off tool; a can opener; prescription medications; glasses; sturdy shoes; blankets; baby food; diapers; pet food; and copies of all important papers like your driver’s license, passport, bank and insurance documents and a CD of important photos,” advised Tucker.

Helping to organize and equip Orange County residents for potential disaster is Ready OC, Orange County’s Emergency Preparedness Resource (www. readyoc.org). It’s a public Shelley Murphy service effort to educate residents for emergency situations, and it’s funded by the Department of Homeland Security and overseen by various city agencies and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

The statistics are startling according to their website, “Nine out of 10 Orange County residents are aware that emergency preparedness is important, yet more than 93 percent have made little or no preparations.” Although it’s comforting to know I’m not alone, there goes my backup plan to descend upon dependable friends in the face of disaster.

To remedy this problem, Ready OC asks residents to make the first step toward disaster preparedness by signing its Promise to Prepare. By agreeing to the pledge, residents commit to assembling an emergency kit, making an emergency plan or volunteering to attend emergency preparedness programs. Last year 32,000 Orange County residents signed a Promise to Prepare—that’s about 1 percent of the population.

While the window on New Year’s Resolutions has closed, it’s not too late to make a Promise to Prepare and plan for 2011.

Shelley Murphy is an 11-year resident of San Clemente.SC PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are solely those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the San Clemente Times staff. We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to letters@sanclementetimes.com.

www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SC

5 BEST BETS BOYS SOCCER

BOYS BASKETBALL

BASKETBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

HOCKEY

Cougars vs. Tritons San Clemente High Jan. 28, 5 p.m.

Hawks vs. Tritons San Clemente High Jan. 28, 7 p.m.

Celtics vs. Lakers Staples Center Jan. 30, 12:30 p.m.

Diablos vs. Tritons San Clemente High Jan. 31, 7 p.m.

Sharks vs. Ducks Honda Center Feb. 2, 7 p.m.

The boys hit the pitch to test their resolve in a nonleague match against the Capo Valley Cougars.

The Tritons need this one bad in order to maintain some semblance of respect in the Sea View League.

It’s a rematch from last year’s NBA Finals as the Lakers play host to the Boston Celtics in a key game on the hardwood.

Both teams are in a battle to not finish last in the South Coast League. Rest assured the Lady Tritons will be fired up.

The Ducks are in a battle for first place in the Pacific Division and will need to ice this win to gain the edge on Dallas.

Info: www.sctritons.com

Info: www.sctritons.com

Info: www.nba.com/lakers

Info: www.sctritons.com

Info: www.nhl.com/ducks

S a n C le m e n te

Triton Report

By David Zimmerle

GIRLS BASKETBALL • The Lady Tritons

(2-5 SCL, 12-11) found a little sweet redemption beating rival Dana Hills 41-35 on January 20.

Down 19-15 at the half, San Clemente held its opponent in check as the girls outscored Dana Hills 26-15 in the final two frames for its first South Coast League win. Hailey Cunningham led with 12 points while Brogan Griffin netted 10 points.

The girls then turned around and beat Godinez 51-32 in a non-league game on January 22.

San Clemente dominated from the start, keeping Godinez in single digit scoring for the first three quarters before cruising to the victory.

Lauren Pluimer went off with a team high 17 points while Sierra Blankenbecler totaled eight points and Natalie Tye seven points.

However, their two-game win streak came to an end against El Toro as the Lady Chargers rolled past San Clemente 46-41 on Monday, January 24. Up 22-16 at the half, a dismal two-point third quarter proved San Clemente’s undoing in the end. Pluimer finished with 10 points, Griffin had nine points and Cunningham and Lindsay Klonowski each scored seven points apiece.

Next 7 days: Jan. 31 vs. *Mission Viejo, 7 p.m. *Denotes South Coast League game

BOYS SOCCER • The Tritons (4-1 SCL,

11-5-4) made it three in a row with recent wins against Laguna Hills, Aliso Niguel and El Toro.

second place, Preston Quam (189) took first place and Leonardo Flores (275) also finished in first place.

The crew then traveled to Cougar country to take on Capo Valley on the mat Tuesday, January 25.

Next 7 days: Jan. 29 at MIT Gold Tourney at LB Millikan, TBA

WRESTLING • The Tritons ended

FOOTBALL • San Clemente High recently

up with second place at the SC Rotary Tournament on January 22. Temecula Valley finished in first place with 248 points, followed by San Clemente in second place with 230.5 points and Poway in third place with 212.5 points.

Jacob Clifton (103) finished in second place, Calvin Wiss (112) took third place, John Castellini (130) finished in third place, Zach Fishman (145) got glorious in first place, Kyle Reese (152) pinned down

BOYS BASKETBALL • The Tritons (0-5

SVL, 11-11) continued their downward spiral as the team lost two more games, stretching the losing streak to five games. San Clemente was beat 47-42 by Trabuco Hills on January 19 and then lost 51-36 to Aliso Niguel on January 21. In the loss to the Mustangs, the Tritons led 22-21 at halftime before their opponent rallied for the win with the home crowd behind them all the way. Blake Kubly led San Clemente with 12 points while Dominic Fashing netted 10 points. Against Aliso Niguel, the Wolverines were in charge from the outset, outscoring San Clemente in three of the four quarters of play.

Fashing had a team high 10 points in the loss while Christian Baily trailed with eight points.

Next 7 days: Jan. 28 vs. *Laguna Hills, 7 p.m. *Denotes Sea View League game

for the win in the end. Mikaela Mourer led with three goals, while Candyce Schroeder, Taylor Smith and Kelsey Thornton each scored two goals apiece.

Next 7 days: Jan. 29 at Coronado, TBA; Jan. 31 at Laguna Beach, 5 p.m.; Feb. 3 at *Trabuco Hills, 5 p.m. *Denotes South Coast League match

Senior Patrice Robison (6) charges forward with the ball at midfield. Photo courtesy of Brian Miller

After beating the Hawks 2-1 on January 14, the Tritons dismantled Aliso Niguel in a 3-1 win on January 19 before shutting out El Toro 2-0 on January 21. In the win against the Wolverines, both teams were tied 1-1 at the half before the Tritons threw it in overdrive with two goals scored in the second half. The boys got balanced scoring in this one as Fabian Caudillo, Oscar Vasquez and Tom Wiechert each scored one goal apiece. Caudillo, Justice Duerksen and Wiechert also had one assist each. In the 2-0 win against the Chargers, San Clemente split its two goals in the first and second as Jesus Garcia and Wiechert each scored one goal.

Next 7 days: Jan. 28 vs. Capo Valley, 5 p.m.

GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Tritons (2-0-3

SCL, 12-2-7) continued their impressive assault in the South Coast League, as the team crushed El Toro 5-0 on January 20. San Clemente scored three goals in the first half and two more in the second half on its way to this victory. Tessa Andujar led the squad with two goals, while Marlee Carrilo, Alex Gerrain and Alex Reisinger each scored one goal apiece.

Next 7 days: Feb. 3 at *Trabuco Hills, 5 p.m. *Denotes South Coast League match

GIRLS WATER POLO • After taking

on Capo Valley at home on January 20, the Lady Tritons (4-0 SCL, 14-4) went on to edge El Toro 10-9 on Monday, January 24. Both teams were tied 4-4 at the half before the Lady Tritons turned it on in the third period, outscoring El Toro 4-3, which proved enough

Page 16 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

announced that Troy Kopp will be the new offensive coordinator for the Tritons.

Kopp has been a quarterback coach and lower level coach for the last five years.

He replaces Dave Brown who is said to be “contemplating taking the position of defensive coordinator,” per a news release from the Triton coaching staff. Moreover, current defensive coordinator Jaime Ortiz is also stepping down from his position to lead the freshman football team.

SCOREBOARD SKATEBOARDING ORANGE COUNTY SKATEBOARDING LEAGUE ANNOUNCES FORMATION AT LOCAL SCHOOLS Several area schools are adding a little more action sports to their yearly schedule. Bernice Ayer Middle School (BAMS), Shorecliffs and San Clemente High now have their own skate teams that have begun competition.

Orange County Skateboarding League (OCSL) held tryouts at Ralphs Skate in San Clemente park a couple months back, the teams have been formed, coaches have been assigned and practices are in full swing.

BAMS, Shorecliffs and SCHS will compete against several other middle schools and high schools throughout Orange County with all competitions held at the Volcom Skatepark in Costa Mesa. A total of 17 high schools and middle schools are participating including St. Edwards Episcopal School.

SCHS team riders include Sandro Viola, A. J. Nakamura, Sean M, Kyle Denton, A. J. Alfaro, Devyn Flanner, Ian Scott, Brandon Shadra and Brodie Curwood. The Head coach is David Gulotta. BAMS team riders include Andrew Banks, Blake Casey, Ethan Grubbs, Jake Hill, Nathaniel Malzland, Xander Morgan, Mateo Rael, Trenton Schwartz, Kaimane Takayama and Isaac Wallen. Head coach is David Gulotta. Shorecliffs team riders include Griffin Crane, Adler Deardorff, Matt Phegley, Sam Phegley, Tyler Samia, Aidan Sargeant and James Whelan. Team coach is Mason Wright.

Both SCHS and BAMS began Round 1 of competition on January 28 while Shorecliffs is slated for Round 1 competition on February 11.

Orange County Skateboarding League has its own web page on Facebook that further lists competition dates.

The highlight of the season will be the end of the year competition in June at the Maloof Money Cup where professional skateboarders will also compete.

OCSL’s Facebook (OC Skateboarding League) page states that,”OCSL is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to developing skate teams at the schools in Orange County.”

OCSL was started by attorney and Costa Mesa City Councilwoman Katrina Foley.

Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting new mode of competition in our area schools.

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SC S a n C le m e n te

S a n C le m e n te

Business Directory

Page 18 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

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SC S a n C le m e n te

S a n C le m e n te

Business Directory

Classifieds Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com Garage sale listings are FREE! E-mail: info@sanclementetimes.com

Commercial Real Estate San Diego income Property Have several San Diego Income properties want to trade for San Clemente SFR, duplex, triplex or fourplex west of the 5. Can add cash for the right deal.

(619) 871-8205.

SC TIMES CLASSIFIEDS ARE ONLINE! Submit an ad or browse current listings at www.sanclementetimes.com

FOR RENT House for Rent in Lake Elsinore 4 bed, 2 bath, 1472 sq ft., 3 car garage and space for RV or boat parking. Central heat and A/C. Nice size fenced yard, covered patio, great neighborhood.

One block from Lake, close to 74 HWY. Available immediately. $1,450/M 949.201.8551

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE! E-mail your garage sale to info@sanclementetimes.com.

DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY NO PHONE CALLS.

HOUSE CLEANING Local House Keeper Reliable, Affordable, Meticulous. EXCELLENT REFERENCES 949-456-2376

THE SC TIMES CLASSIFIEDS WORK! “Many thanks to the best local San Clemente paper the San Clemente Times. I recently put a small ad in the garage sale section and got amazing results. What a thrill to seee many, many people ready to buy my garage sale items.

When completed we counted over $344 thanks to the ad we placed with you. We look forward to reading each and every issue as it is delivered free every thursday. Sincerly, D.E”

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January 27–February 2, 2011 • San Clemente Times • Page 19

Locals Only

Business Directory

The only directory featuring San Clemente businesses exclusively A L S O

O N L I N E

ACNE/PROBLEM SKIN Proderma 800 S. El Camino Real Ste. 205

W W W. S A N C L E M E N T E T I M E S . C O M

Cheese Shop

Financial Advisor

949.492.3663 949.498.9007 The Cellar 156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

CHIROPRACTORS

ACUPUNCTURE Clemente Acupuncture acudoc333@aol.com

AT

949.234.9857

Air conditioning All Season Air 949.579.0741 allseasonair@gmail.com, www.allseasonair.net Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Appliances South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

Appliances Services & Repairs ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com

ART GALLERIES San Clemente Art Association 949.492.7175 100 N. Calle Seville, www.scartgallery.com

Attorneys

Dr. R. Tyler Johnson DC, Chiropractic Center 1502 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6440 www.chiropracticcenteronline.com

Commercial Real Estate Doug Echelberger First Team Real Estate 949.498.7711 407 W. El Camino Real, www.echelberger.com

COMMERCIAL/TENANT IMPROVEMENT CONTRACTOR Garrison Property Services, Inc. Lic. # B609809, marc01@cox.net

949.370.1125

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 Sano Computers

949.492.2179 www.sanocomputers.com Solution Tek-nologies 949.400.0080 San Clemente, www.solutiontek-nologies.com

CONCRETE

The Gibbs Law Firm, APC 949.492.3350 Costa Verde Landscape 110 E Avenida Palizada, Ste. 201, www.gibbslaw.com License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) Serrate Law 949.429.8107 www.costaverdelandscaping.com 630 S. El Camino Real, Ste. A, serrate@cox.net

949.361.9656

Auto Wrecking

BABY & CHILDREN’S GEAR OC Tykes

949.429.1714 201 N. El Camino Real, www.octykes.com

Bankruptcy Attorneys Beauty Supply

GRAPHIC DESIGN Images/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 2927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com

HAIR SALONS

Heating All Season Air 949.579.0741 allseasonair@gmail.com, www.allseasonair.net Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Miller’s Holiday Lighting

Dentists

949.369.7263

DRYWALL/DRYWALL REPAIR

Village Book Exchange 99 Avenida Serra

949.492.1114

BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICE, REPAIR OC - IT

949.488.0029 970 Calle Negocio, www.oc-it.com

CARPET

Call Jeff

johnson4sc@cox.net

ELECTRICAL

Capistrano Beach Steam Clean 949.240.5875 www.steamcleaningdanapoint.com Pete McKenzie Carpet Cleaning 949.492.5370

CARPET & FLOORING Anaheim Carpet & Flooring 949.366.6564 1046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.anaheimcarpet.net

949.874.2540

Estate Planning, Probate, Trust

Lange & Minnott

1401 N. El Camino Real, Ste. 109

EXTERMINATING

SC Rider Supply

949.388.0521 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com

MUSIC LESSONS

OFFICE FURNITURE South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

Optometry

San Clemente Optometry, David J. Nota, OD 224 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2029 HOUSE CLEANING www.sanclementeoptometry.com Betty’s House Cleaning 949.370.2920 Seaside Eyecare

949.493.2269 David Miller - Wonderful Windows 949.369.7263 638 Camino De Los Mares, #A120, www.wonderfulwindows.com www.seasideeyecare.com

INTERIOR DECORATING & REDESIGN

PAINTING KC Painting & Decorating

949.388.6829

Periodontics & Dental Implants

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS) 949.218.8022 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com

The Home & Garden Stylist/ Vignettes of Refinement San Clemente, www.vignettesofrefinement.com Rooms With A View - One-Day Makeover Using Existing Furnishings 949.492.8566 www.roomswithavu.com

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045 www.arcadiaelectric.com Gallagher Electric

949.412.6602 INTERIOR DESIGN P.O. Box 986, www.gallagher-electric.com Norma Mardian Interior Design 949.492.6271 www.nminteriordesign.com

Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 Entertainment 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G-105, DJ Services www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com Shaw’s Carpets 949.492.8070 KilltheTreble@yahoo.com 135 Avenida Victoria

CARPET CLEANING

949.683.4972

MOLD REMOVAL Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 Leslie Lowe - Guitar, Bass & Drums 949.292.5019 109 Calle de los Molinos, leslielowe82@gmail.com www.southcoastfurniture.com Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 HOME IMPROVEMENT 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com

Del Mar Beauty Supply 949.492.8180 949.493.9311 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com Eric Johnson, D.D.S. HOUSE SITTING 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, www.drericjohnson.com Blinds Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074 Ronald Trosper, DDS 949.492.7140 San Clemente Window Fashions 949.498.9515 145 Ave Del Mar, www.downtownsanclemente.com San Clemente, dalmatian.love@cox.net www.sc-wf.com

BOOKS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

Home Décor

949.248.2868

Body Therapy/Healing 949.683.2033 San Clemente, www.cfrpassion.com C’Siren Day Spa

949.498.7700 312 Avenida De La Estrella

MATTRESSES

Kreative Hair Design 949.498.6245 173 Avenida Serra

B Construction

949.481.8444 1046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.bconstruction.net The Cooper Company General Contractor License #B 638754, 949.361.2538 Custom Carpentry, Concrete Framing & Finish www.biffcooperconstruction.com Ike Soffes

949.363.3087 Dunham Construction, Inc. 949.492.7100 License #450880, www.dunhamconstruction.net HOME LOANS Hutton Construction 949.492.2808 Coldwell Banker Home Loans - 949.307.7982 www.brucehuttonconstruction.com nmls#261832. Tom Fashing, Mortgage Advisor, tom.fashing@mortgagefamily.com COSMETICS

The Gibbs Law Firm, APC 949.492.3350 110 E Avenida Palizada, Ste. 201, www.gibbslaw.com Mary Kay Cosmetics www.marykay.com/madams2

Landscape Lighting

Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656 FLOORING License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 www.costaverdelandscaping.com 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G -105, Mantels www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com Mostly Mantels 949.498.8778 FURNITURE 114 Calle de Los Molinos, Ste. C, South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 www.mostlymantels.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, Massage Therapy www.southcoastfurniture.com

HOLIDAY LIGHTING

CONTRACTORS - GENERAL

San Clemente Auto Wrecking & Repair Shop 1520 Avenida de la Estrella, Ste. B, 949.492.6121 www.sanclementeautowrecking.com

Timothy C. Metcalf, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC www.wfadvisors.com/tim.metcalf 949.862.1250

Greenscapes Landscape & Design 949.366.6564 1046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.greenscapesoc.com

INTERIOR MAKEOVERS & STAGING Casa Verde Homes www.casaverdehomes.com

949.212.5800

PEST CONTROL Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com Environment 1st Exterminating, Inc. 949.218.1111 2340 S. El Camino Real, #13, www.freetermitereports.com

Pet Grooming VIP Pet Spa

949.492.7473 810 S. El Camino Real, www.vippetspa.com

Pet SITTING

Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074 JewelerS San Clemente, dalmatian.love@cox.net

949.361.4367 PAWS-itively Pet Care 949.683.2033 949.492.3459 Paradise Jewelers 808 N. El Camino Real, www.paradisejewelers.com San Clemente

LANDSCAPE & DESIGN

Environment 1st Exterminating, Inc. 949.218.1111 Costa Verde Landscape License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 2340 S. El Camino Real, #13, www.costaverdelandscaping.com www.freetermitereports.com

PET SUPPLIES 949.361.9656 Pet Treasures

949.493.7297 653 Camino de los Mares, Suite 100, www.theyellowbone.com

Locals Only

Business Directory

The only directory featuring San Clemente businesses exclusively A L S O

O N L I N E

PHARMACIES

AT

W W W. S A N C L E M E N T E T I M E S . C O M

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

Sea View Pharmacy 949.496.0123 665 Camino De Los Mares #101, www.seaviewpharmacy.com

Nic’s Vacuum & Small Appliance 949.492.4747 216 Ave. Del Mar, www.nicsvacuum.com

VETERINARIANS

PHOTOGRAPHY Memories Of Me Photos wwwmemoriesofmephotos.com

949.361.0680

PIZZA Izza Neapolitan Pizzeria 949.248.4925 376 Camino de Estrella, www.izzapizzeria.com

PLUMBING A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.atozleakdetection.com Bill Metzger Plumbing 949.492.3558 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com Chick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731 www.chicks-plumbing.com Mission Plumbing & Heating 949.492.4303 1100 S. El Camino Real, www.missionplumbingandheating.com San Clemente Plumbing 949.366.2691 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 108, www.sanclementeplumbing.com

POOL/SPA SERVICE & REPAIR

Sea View Pharmacy Sea View Pharmacy is dedicated to servicing the complete pharmaceutical care, medical supply and home medical equipment needs of our community. Our goal is to facilitate patient care needs, promote wellness, and continue to service our community as we have been for over 25 years. 665 Camino de Los Mares, Ste. 101, San Clemente, 949.496.0123

Restaurants

Manny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 800.865.0367 300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com

Real Estate Altera Real Estate - “Sandy & Rich” www.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236 Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631 San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.com Casa Verde Homes - Simon Wilson 949.212.5800 www.casaverdehomes.com Doug Echelberger First Team Real Estate 407 W. El Camino Real, 949.498.7711 www.echelberger.com Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County marciegeorge@cox.net 949.690.5410 Prue Putnins- Regency Real Estate 949.366.1984 www.thetalegateam.com, www.HomesByPrue.com Steve Smith 949.632.8139 Olympian Altera DCP, ssmithsurfer@msn.com Tarbell Realtors - The Metcalfs 949.533.5999 1001 Avenida Pico, www.Metcalf4Homes.com

Real Estate Attorneys The Gibbs Law Firm, APC 949.492.3350 110 E Avenida Palizada, Ste. 201, www.gibbslaw.com

Remodel Casa Verde Homes

949.212.5800 License # B 906391, www.casaverdehomes.com Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com Finish Builders 949.492.1084 nesaanderson@cox.net, www.finishbuilders.com

WATER DAMAGE

Water Wise Irrigation Costa Verde Landscape License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com

Jim Thomas Roofing 162 Calle de Industrias

949.498.9412

SECONDHAND THRIFT SHOP

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

SURF CAMPS Aloha Beach Camp 949.481.7222 647 Camino de los Mares, www.alohabeachcamp.net

Surf Lessons Aloha Beach Camp 949.481.7222 647 Camino de los Mares, www.alohabeachcamp.net

SURF SCHOOLS San Clemente Surf School 949.334.7649 www.sanclementesurflessons.com

TERMITES Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com Environment 1st Exterminating, Inc. 949.218.1111 2340 S. El Camino Real, #13, www.freetermitereports.com The Termite Guy -Termite & Pest Control 106 W. Canada Ave., 949.940.1010 www.877termite.com

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION/RESTORATION Yorba Linda Tile & Marble, Inc. 949.276.5752 www.yorbalindatilemarble.com 714.757.3490

Troubled Teens Pacific Quest

949.940.6068 mark@pacificquest.org, www.pacificquest.org

TUTORING Study with Stacy www.studywithstacy.com

949.632.1176

The Cellar 949.492.3663 156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

San Clemente Wine Company 949.429.7076 212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, www.scwinecompany.com

WEBSITE DESIGN

949.290.8230 949.498.6204 Bayside Window Cleaning www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Greg’z Pristine Window Cleaning & 949.294.7852 X-Mas Light Installation 949.361.3348

SCREENS

WINDOW COVERINGS Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com San Clemente Window Fashions 949.498.9515 www.sc-wf.com

Wine Shop & Wine Tasting 949.361.9656

WINDOW CLEANING

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

949.369.7263

Wine Bar

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

Café Calypso

114 Avenida Del Mar #4 WINDOWS The Cellar 949.492.3663 Wonderful Windows 949.369.7263 156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

Sure-Fit Screens

Printing OC

949.388.4888 www.surefitscreens.com 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

Psychologists

Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital 949.429.1555 1242 Puerta Del Sol, www.pacificcoastveterinary.com

San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345 949.366.9386 www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

SALONS Radiant Pool & Spa Service 949.290.5616 www.radiantpoolservice.com Salon Bamboo SC Pool Techs 949.235.1261 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, www.fixmypoolnow.com www.salonbamboo.com Salon Bleu 949.366.2060 PRESCHOOLS 207 S. El Camino Real, www.scsalonbleu.com 949.429.5802 San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 Sanctuary Salon & Spa 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com 163 Avenida Victoria, sanclementepreschool@gmail.com PRINTING

Wonderful Windows www.wonderfulwindows.com

Vacuums

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7.

Get your business listed today.

Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@sanclementetimes.com.

SC SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

Grom of the WEEK Mason Shaw Age: 13, Shorecliffs Middle School January has been a great month for Mason Shaw and he has two first-place trophies to show for it. At Scholastic Surf Series (SSS) Event No. 3 in Huntington Beach, Mason earned his second first-place of the season, cementing his No. 1 ranking in Boys Longboard and contributing to the team’s solid lead among OC middle schools. At WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 6, Mason also took first and has climbed into the No. 2 spot in the Boys U14 Longboard ranks.

“The conditions on the south side of the pier at the WSA were all walled and not so good that day,” said Mason. “Everyone was having a hard time with the bad surf and I guess I got lucky and chose a few good ones that worked all the Photo by Sheri Crummer/seasister.com way through to the inside and got the scores I needed.” In school, he is earning mostly ‘A’ grades. “I only have one ‘B’ and I am really close to making it an ‘A’,” he said. Mason said he’d like to thank his parents and brother for being supportive of his surfing and taking him to the beach to practice and for contests. Right now, Mason is preparing for next month’s SSS at Salt Creek. “I like that wave because it’s kind of fast and has good barrels on the lefts sometimes,” he said. Mason is also looking forward to traveling to Costa Rica this summer. —Andrea Swayne

Trette on the Mend San Clemente surfer Jacob Trette’s condition upgraded to fair after near drowning at Maverick’s

Surf ForecasT Water temp: 55-58˚F Water visibility and conditions: San Clemente: 6-10’ Poor; Catalina: 10-15’+ Poor-Fair Remarks: A new NW swell fills in on Thursday, joining a continued SSW Southern Hemi swell, good for 3-4’+ surf at the better exposed breaks. Surge is light-moderate and visibility is poor-fair at best, offering up poor+ diving conditions.

Short range: A new NW groundswell fills in on Thursday, mixing with continued SSW swell.

Better breaks are good for waist-chest-shoulder high surf, with some larger sets for top exposures. Conditions are clean for the morning and looking good overall with negiligible tides all day. The surf stays fun zone on Friday as our NW and SSW swells ease slightly.

Long range: The weekend is looking good for a continued fun zone mix of NW groundswell and SSW swell in the 2-4’ range Saturday and Sunday. Conditions are looking favorable with light/variable morning winds, stay tuned.

SURF RESULTS AND UPCOMING EVENTS NSSA Southwest Conference Explorer Event No. 5 January 15-16, Encinitas, D Street First place and local finishers only. MEN: 1.

Antoine Allain, Santa Barbara; 2. Jeremy Carter, San Clemente. JUNIORS: 1. Kent Nishiya, Torrance. BOYS: 1. Jay Christenson, Pacific Beach. MENEHUNE: 1. Jordan Collins, Carlsbad. SUPER GROMS: 1. Zach McCormick, Solana Beach; 5. Ashton Wright, San Clemente. WOMEN: 1. Samantha Lamirand, Cardiff by the Sea; 2. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente. GIRLS: 1. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla; 2. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente.

MASTERS: 1. Rick Takahashi, San Diego; 4.

YuFu Penrose, San Clemente. SENIORS: 1.

Rick Takahashi, San Diego. SUPER SENIORS: 1. Rusty Phillipy, Cardiff by the Sea. DUKE: 1. Patrick Schlick, La Mirada. LONGBOARD: 1. Shaun Thompson, Huntington Beach; 2.

Christian Stutzman, San Clemente.

NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 8 January 22-23, Dana Point, Salt Creek

SC Times online video show Jacob Trette went over the falls on this wave. Photo by Nikki Brooks

By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

T

he condition of surfer Jacob Trette, 30, of San Clemente, injured after being caught inside and thrown over the falls at Maverick’s on January 22 has been steadily improving since he was airlifted in critical condition to Stanford Medical Center and placed in a medically-induced coma. Trette is awake, moving and expected to recover.

“His condition is fair. Vital signs are stable and within normal limits,” hospital spokeswoman Liat Kobza said about 4 p.m. on Tuesday. “He is conscious but may be uncomfortable. All indicators are favorable.”

The Jay at Maverick’s Big Wave Invitational was within its holding period—December 1 through February 28—when word of the possibility of a swell big enough to produce contest-worthy waves made rounds among big wave surfers attracting many to Maverick’s near Half Moon Bay. Although, contest organizers deemed conditions too inconsistent and too small to run the contest, Trette was among the large group of big wave surfers that chose to ride the weekend swell that sent waves in the 12- to 16-foot range.

A set of two much larger waves—estimated to be in the 20- to 25-foot range—snuck up

on the surfers catching as many as a dozen off guard on the inside.

“I saw a big set approaching catching everyone out of position and about 10 or 12 were too far on the inside. Everyone scrambled to make it over the first wave,” said Santa Cruz-based surf photographer Nikki Brooks, who was watching and taking photos from the cliffs. “About four or five surfers didn’t make it over. A second wave hit and I was watching a surfer paddling on half of a broken board when a kayaker that had been in the lagoon caught my eye because he was farther out and raising his hand.

“Then I saw Russell Ord on a jet ski go toward the kayak, jump off his ski and pull a limp body onto the sled. I called 911. By the time I got down the cliffs to the beach there were a few other people helping and we could hear sirens approaching. It all happened very quickly, like within about eight minutes. Russell [Ord], local surfer John Bowling and a few others had Jacob in rescue position, were doing compressions and fluid was coming out of his mouth and nose. He was making a sort of snoring sound. He had a pulse but was unconscious.”

Witnesses say that Trette survived a

Page 22 • San Clemente Times • January 27–February 2, 2011

Log on to www.sanclementetimes.com and browse our collection of videos featuring the people, places and events that make up our rich surf community. BoardShorts videos can be purchased through videographer Rob Elseewi for $10 per segment. To order your copy, send an email to robelseewi@gmail.com or call 949.701.5711.

two-wave hold down and took at least two more on the head after resurfacing and was washed through the rocks near the shore.

Australian firefighter and photographer Ord, the man on the personal watercraft, reportedly had been pulling another surfer, who had also taken a pounding, to safety when he saw Trette’s body floating face up.

According to reports, the PWC Ord was riding was borrowed and he was unaware of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) ban on PWCs within the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Under the rules, PWC use at Maverick’s is allowed during only one tow-in contest per year and when the waves top the 20-foot mark. Ironically, had Ord been following the law that day, Trette’s fate may have been quite different.

Trette is father to a 2-year-old son, Jacob Jr. Attempts to reach Trette’s parents for comment were unsuccessful, as they were reportedly by his bedside. SC

First place and local finishers only. MEN: 1. Jake Halstead, La Jolla; 4. Jonah Carter, San Clemente. JUNIORS: 1. Taylor Clark, Encinitas; 2. Colt Ward, San Clemente. BOYS: 1. Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente. MINI GROMS: 1. Tyler Gunter, Newport Beach; 4. Crosby Colapinto, San Clemente; 5. Cole Houshmand, San Clemente. WOMEN: 1. Taylor Pitz, Laguna Beach; 3. Kulia Doherty, San Clemente. GIRLS: 1. Frankie Harrer, Malibu; 3.

Tia Blanco, San Clemente; 6. Kloee Openshaw, San Clemente. LONGBOARD: 1. Shaun Thompson, Huntington Beach.

For full results, log on to www.sanclementetimes.com

UPCOMING EVENTS January 29-30: NSSA Southwest Conference Event No. 6, Huntington Beach, Pier (Rescheduled due to rain, out on November 20-21.) February 5-6: Surfing America Prime Event No. 5, San Onofre State Beach, Upper Trestles February 12: SSS Orange County Middle School Event No. 4, Dana Point, Salt Creek February 12-13: WSA Gatorade Championship Tour Event No. 7, Huntington Beach, Pier February 12-13: NSSA Southwest Conference Event No. 6, San Diego, La Jolla Shores February 19-20: NSSA Southwest Conference Event No. 9, Ventura, California Street February 26-27: NSSA Southwest Conference Event No. 7, Oceanside, Pier www.sanclementetimes.com