CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S 9-PAGE SAN CLEMENTE REAL ESTATE GUIDE J U LY 5 –1 1 , 2 0 1 2
LO C A L
N EWS
YO U
C A N
U S E
VOLUME 7, ISSUE 27
From the Tee An amateur’s guide to golf in our towns E Y E O N S C / PAG E 6
In San Clemente, Talega Golf Club’s 18th finishing hole is a downhill, 380-yard par-4 that features a green nearly surrounded by water. Photo by Steve Breazeale
www.sanclementetimes.com
Casa Romantica’s Exec Director Parts Ways with Nonprofit
Local Athletes Vie for Gold at X Games in LA
Girl Scouts Create Bicycle Trail Map for Families, Earn Silver Award
EYE ON SC/PAGE 3
SPORTS/PAGE 26
EYE ON SC/PAGE 4
THE SAN CLEMENTE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION
Mahalo to the following businesses, organizations, and individuals for their support which made the
9th Annual SUNSET LUAU an outstanding success!
Over $121,000 was raised to supplement ACADEMIC programs at San Clemente High School.
KE ALAKA’L LEVEL
2012 Honorees Nathan Auerbach,
The Baker Family Marty & Stefanie Colombatto
Chris & Tricia Dolkas, Anne & Bill Prestridge
Capistrano Unified Children First Shelly & Kevin Gaston
KE KELA LEVEL
The Hatoff Family Mark & Shelley Murphy
MedPro, LLC Mark & Kitty Schmitt
KE KU I KA NU U LEVEL Jason Adams Coral Thrift Shop Ruth DeNault DeNault’s TrueValue Hardware Tim & Marlo Garrett Griffin Optometric Group
David & Amy Hanacek Claudio & Nancy Haug Nick & Tracy Karahalious Joe & Debbie Nix Thomas & Katherine O’Keefe Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital
Saddleback Memorial Medical Center/Tony Struthers Barry & Sandra Silverman Marc & Traci Weintraub
KE KOKUA LEVEL Bob & Pam Baker Ronald Barr Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli Daniel & Brigitte Bogart Fred Bouman Ruth A Clark Doug & Nancy Coward Mike & Donna Dollar
Coastal Rock Realty/ Peggy Barnes Lincoln Roger & Ann Worthington
The Baker Family Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach JetBlue Airways
Asana Fit Billabong Greg & Robin Boswell Cabrillo Playhouse CaliGoodLife by Rex Camp Bow Wow Charis Fine Portraiture Chick-fil-A City of San Clemente Municipal Golf Concept Design Dana Innovations Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching Rick J, Delanty Fine Art R.L Dietz Landscape Construction Pools/Spas
Open Mind Modalities Billups & Anne Prestridge Renwes Appliances Styles for Less Ana Sussman Georgia Taccolini Evey Thomsen
Andrew & Lori Donchak John Dorey Jeanne Griffin Mike & Gina Hazlett Scot & Brooke Jones Hitomi & Rolf Kojima Cindy & Tim Lawson Judith Morton
UNDERwRITERS
Krista Jon.com Rick Dodd & Family Stance Socks.com
KonaRed Legends Beer Brad & Wendy Rambo
Jim and Kathleen Sigafoos Ray & Teresa Taccolini
Shadetree Automotive Joseph & Juli Stefaniak
KA LOKOMAIKA I LEVEL
John Alkema/Linda Verraster The Butler Family George & Fritsie Duarte Tony & Angie Hayes Kanoy Associates Cameron Lovett & Nicole Slocum
Studio Artique/ The Spaeth Family SUP ATX.com/Mellem Family
Tom & Lisa Banks Sharon & Darin Blindell Tony & Michelle Castro
Chris Korpi Krikorian Premiere Theaters L*Space Swimwear LA Lakers Massage Envy Spa Memories of Me Photos.com Mikoh Swimwear/Kelly Slater Nixon Obey Clothing Oceanafit Yoga Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital PCH SheetMetal Quiksilver Revol Nails & Spa Rip Curl Ritual of San Clemente Rocco’s Restaurant
Johnny Clinkerbeard Matthew & Lynne Hunt Anthony Sisca Kathleen Styles
Opportunity Drawing winner Sandra & Barry Silverman
Bonnie & Kent Stevens Steve & Bebe McGarry Gary Wiggle
Toes on the Nose Adventure Hyatt The San Clemente Times
SILENT AUCTION DONORS
Drs. DiGiovanni & Cook DisneyLand ElleDi/ Linda Dealy Endless Summer Surf Camp Ermanno DeVito Hair Studio Estrella Vet Hospital Euro Day Spa/Dr. Lorrie Klein Meegan Feori Brian Frabasilio Get College Funding Hanson’s Market Nancy Haug Headgames Salon Henken & Kennedy Orthodontics Hurley Island Shade Shacks Austin Gregory Johns/ SC Health & Fitness Network
Mead Machining, LLC/Jordie Mead Doug & Monica Merrill Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar & Restaurant John & Georgia Redmond RGA Architectural Design Laura Smith
wIKI wIKI LEVEL
LIVE AUCTION DONORS
Redmond Orthodontics Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel SCHS, SCEF, SCHS Athletics
Russ & Donna Wertz Roger & Ann Worthington
Ross Whitaker Studios Salon Incognito/ Maila Anderson San Clemente Boot Camp San Clemente Wine Company Sanctuary Salon SeaWorld Janet Seymour Skull Candy Sonny’s Pizza Spanish Village Foundation Steve Johnson Tennis Academy Studio B Styles For Less Talega Day Spa Talega Golf Course The Cellar The Surfer’s Journal
A very BIG THANKS to all the volunteers who helped make this event possible! Thank you to the Colombatto Family for the use of their spectacular property!
Rose Wright Designs Action Sports Photography/ Kelly Mitchell
Linda Verraster and Kitty Schmitt The Yoder Family
Tina & Vince’s Italian Deli Training Camp The Vine Wildflower Floral & Events Roger & Ann Worthington
EYE ON SC
1
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
SC S a n C le m e n te
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO San Juan Capistrano is parting ways with Woodruff, Spradlin & Smart, the city’s longtime law firm. City Attorney Omar Sandoval, the firm’s assigned attorney to San Juan, submitted his letter of resignation to the city on Thursday, June 28, along with the firm’s 60-day notice of termination. The city will seek new legal counsel and will discuss options at the next City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 17. The Costa Mesa-based firm has been San Juan’s contracted law firm since 1997. Sandoval officially became San Juan’s city attorney in January 2008, replacing the retired John Shaw. He began working in San Juan in 1999 as the deputy city attorney and then as assistant city attorney in 2005. Sandoval also provides counsel for the city of Hawaiian Gardens. He will continue to serve for the duration of the 60 days.
DANA POINT
NEWS
NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOIN G O N I N OU R NE IGH B O R I N G TOWN S
Doheny State Beach has won a $10,000 grant to use for planting trees in the park via the Odwalla juice company’s “Plant a Tree” contest. The park submitted a video detailing the need for replacement trees after the recent loss of many of its non-native Australian eucalyptus trees due to disease or safety issues. Twenty contestants competed for the grant money via online voting. Doheny State Beach came in fifth place among the competitors with a total of 791 votes when voting closed on May 31. A total of 10 grants were awarded nationwide. The money will be used for planting native California species, like sycamores and alders, to restore shade for park visitors and habitat for birds and other animals that make their homes at Doheny Beach. Log on to https://cocacola. promo.eprize.com/odwallapat/ to see park’s video entry.
SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS
What’s Up With... 1
… Toll Roads?
THE LATEST: As of July 1, tolls went up for drivers at most toll locations for roads overseen by the Transportation Corridor Agencies. Drivers will fork over between 25 and 50 cents more, depending on the toll location. Motorists with the electronic transponders will pay between 5 percent and 10 percent more to use area toll roads. The increases were imposed to pay bondholders and were approved last month as part of the overall budget, according to a news release from the agency. The boards for the Transportation Corridor Agencies approved a $111.2 million budget for San Joaquin Hills and a $154.8 million budget for the Foothill/Eastern portion. One major project funded in the fiscal year will be completion of the design and environmental permitting for the State Route 241 Tesoro Extension Project. The $5.6 million will help pave the way for the 5.5 miles of the 241 Toll Road from Oso Parkway to the vicinity of Ortega Highway in San Juan Capistrano. WHAT’S NEXT: If all goes as planned, construction of the Tesoro Extension will start within the year. FIND OUT MORE: To see a full listing of rate increases, visit www.thetollroads.com/assets/objects/other/TR_RateCard.pdf. — Stacie N. Galang
2
… a Donation to Sgt. Manuel Loggins’ Family?
THE LATEST: A $10,680 donation was given to the family of Marine Sgt. Manuel Loggins who was shot and killed outside San Clemente High School February 7 by an Orange San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
County Sheriff’s deputy. Funds for the family had been collected by the Chamber of Commerce with the help of the Heritage of San Clemente Foundation, said foundation Executive Director Wayne Eggleston. Members of the chamber, the Marine Corps League and Eggleston handed over the check to Phoebe Loggins, the widow of Manuel Loggins, Friday, June 29 at Park Semper Fi. She was accompanied by her attorney Brian Dunn, Eggleston said. “Phoebe was very, very gracious to say the least,” he said. WHAT’S NEXT: Dunn has already filed a federal lawsuit against Orange County and the Sheriff’s Department. FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. — SNG
3
… SONGS’ Workers?
THE LATEST: As of this week, Southern California Edison has managed to stave off layoffs at San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station though workers at the power plant south of San Clemente are wary. “People are concerned, but they’re working,” Daniel Dominguez, business manager for Utility Workers of America, Local 246. “There’s a lot of work to make sure they do.” Dominguez’s union represents about 800 plant workers at SONGS where both reactors have been offline since January. Unit 2 was taken out of service January 9 for planned upgrades. Unit 3 underwent rapid shutdown January 31 after a minor radiation leak was detected. Inspectors at the plant have since discovered unexpected wear in steam generator tubes of both units, which have relatively new steam generators. “All of our members, even the nonrepresented people, have all been in the
business a long time and understand they need to keep focused on getting the power plant running,” Dominguez said. WHAT’S NEXT: The union continues to negotiate a first contract between SCE and its newest bargaining unit of engineers and technical specialists, which represents about 20 workers, Dominguez said. The Utility Workers also filed a complaint against SCE with the National Labor Relations Board in April, claiming the utility engaged in unfair labor practice when it refused to pay cost of living increases, according to Dominguez. SCE contends the raises are tied to the introduction of a foreman as negotiated, according to union filings. Dominguez said the union is giving testimony this week on its complaint. FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www. sanclementetimes.com. —SNG
4
…General Election?
THE LATEST: San Clemente residents who are interested in running for elected office can file nomination papers starting July 16 until August 10 at 5 p.m. The city will hold its general municipal election Tuesday, November 6 for two City Council members, one city treasurer and one city clerk. All positions have a full term of four years. The two city council seats are currently held by councilmen Bob Baker and Jim Dahl. The incumbent city treasurer and city clerk are Pall Gudgeirsson and Joanne Baade, respectively. Both Dahl and Baker plan to seek reelection. Dahl vies for his fifth term. He noted the completion of projects such as the city’s General Plan and the La Pata Extension will need oversight. Baker looks for a second, four-year term. He said he hopes to help the city
Page 3
find a solution to some of the problems at North Beach, including the Miramar. Citizens interested in taking out nomination papers can visit the city clerk’s office in City Hall or call 949.361.8345. WHAT’S NEXT: The last day to register to vote in the November 6 election is October 22. Voter registration forms are available at City Hall or by visiting www.ocvote.com. FIND OUT MORE: For more information, visit www.san-clemente.org. —Brian Park and SNG
5
… Casa Romantica?
THE LATEST: After 2 ½ years at the helm of Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, Jenifer Finley is no longer the nonprofit’s executive director. The nonprofit’s Board President Mike Evans sent a letter to members last week announcing the departure of Finley, who started at the cultural center and gardens in November 2009. She was Casa’s fourth executive director. Her employment ended as of June 21. WHAT’S NEXT: A three-member board committee will oversee daily operations, and Karen Ahola, Casa’s marketing director, will act as the staff liaison, Evans said. The nonprofit has struggled financially, according to tax documents. The cultural center ended 2009 with a $48,502 deficit, according to its tax filings for the year, the most recent available. The year prior, the nonprofit lost $111,411. In 2007, Casa Romantica ended its year $24,177 in the black. FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanclementetimes.com. —SNG Have a story idea or topic you would like to read about? Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com. www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, July 5 Golf Course Committee Meeting 7 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers, 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Friday, July 6 Dark Friday City offices closed. TGIF Party 12 p.m. Celebration at The Dorothy Visser Senior Center with entertainment by Global Affair. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.
Sunday, July 8 San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.
Tuesday, July 10 Ukulele Class 10:15 a.m.-11:45 a.m. Class for seniors at The Dorothy Visser Senior Center. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322. Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting 6 p.m. Community Center, Ole Hanson Room. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Wednesday, July 11 South Orange Democratic Club 6 p.m. Dinner and a 7 p.m. meeting at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. Cost $17-$20. 25925 Camino del Avion, San Juan Capistrano, kenton805@cox.net. General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting 6 p.m. Dorothy Visser Senior Center multi-purpose room. 117 Avenida Victoria, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Thursday, July 12 Open House at The Coop 6:30 p.m. Stop by and learn what’s happening with the San Clemente Community Market. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served. 1506 Calle Valle, San Clemente, 949.441.1266, www.sanclementemarket.com. Coastal Advisory Committee Meeting 7 p.m. Community Center, Ole Hanson Room. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.
Upcoming: July 13 Golf Tournament 12:30 p.m. The Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation hold their Benefit Golf Tournament at SC Municipal Golf Course; arrive early for registration and a putting contest. Awards, dinner held after. Individual $150, foursome $500. 150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.276.8866,www. friendsofsanclemente.org. San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
NEWS BITES
Compiled by Brian Park
PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Girl Scouts Create Trail Maps u Thanks to eight San Clemente Girl Scout Cadettes, the city has new, familyfriendly bike trail maps available to the public. Celine Hoyle, Hailey Reed, Hannah Reed, Lauren Woodstra, Sawyer Labbe, Taylor Stafford, Veronica Petrikas and Hailey Duncan—of Girl Scout Troop 1835—were inspired by their love for riding bikes and realized a need for more low-cost family activities in San Clemente. The city already had bike trail maps, but those primarily focused on more challenging trails that were more difficult for families. Each girl chose and researched a specific trail, including testing the trails out with their families. The maps include distance, time, landmarks, parking instructions and tips for traversing the trail. The girls also added Geocaching, an outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. The maps were the final step in the girls’ pursuit of the Silver Award, the second highest achievement in the Girl Scouts. The girls were presented with their Silver Award Certificates, along with congratulatory letters from Gov. Jerry Brown, during a special ceremony June 19. The maps can be found at the following San Clemente businesses, who sponsored the printing of the maps: San Clemente Cyclery, Noll Surfboards and La Siesta Restaurant.
Courtney’s SandCastle Reopens Personalized Tile Sale u Supporters of Courtney’s SandCastle, the universally accessible playground designed especially for children with disabilities, have reopened their sale of personalized tiles to fund the second phase of the project. The “Paint a Tile” fundraising program is selling personalized, glazed tiles for $150 to be installed at a wall on the site. With each $150 tax deductible donation, donors will receive a work order to take to Fired Up of San Clemente to design their own tile or choose one of a dozen design templates created by local artist Kathryn Stovall-Dennis. The 30,000-square-foot playground, which is part of the Vista Hermosa Sport Park & Aquatics Center, opened in February. The second phase of the project, “The Sensory Gardens,” features a garden with aromatic plants, a musical pathway that produces auditory stimuli and several interactive water features, including a raised interactive tide pool and a floating granite water sphere. More than 250 personalized tiles have already been installed at the playground. Donors should expect to see their tiles at the playground before the end of the summer, said Don Glasgow, president of Courtney’s SandCastle.
The girls of Girl Scout Cadette Troop 1835 display one of the bike trail maps they created as part of their Silver Award project. Courtesy photo
To make a donation and to buy a tile, visit www.courtneyssandcastle.com.
winning community based school program for children at risk.
Warrior Games on July 28
Foundation Hosts Wine Tasting
u In support of U.S. Marines currently deployed in Afghanistan, the San Clemente Marine Corps Support Group is holding its first ever Warrior Games Saturday, July 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at On-Target in Laguna Niguel. Central to the event is a men’s and women’s pistol shooting competition. Contestants have one minute to shoot eight bullets from three pistols each: a .22 Ruger Target pistol, 9mm Glock and a 1911 .45ACP. Winners in each class will win a Springfield XD Tactical in the caliber of their choice. The entry fee is $25 to compete or to sponsor a Wounded Warrior or Marine. Active duty servicemen and servicewomen can enter for $15. The event also features a silent auction, an ammunition sale and the opportunity to win up to 21 firearms. All net proceeds go toward Socks for Heroes, which provides clean socks to Marine infantry battalions in Afghanistan. To register, visit www.scmsg. org.
u The Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks & Recreation Foundation is holding a pre-celebration of their Second Annual Golf Tournament. On Friday, July 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., the foundation will celebrate with a wine-tasting event at Irons in the Fire restaurant at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. Beverages will be provided by Classic Wings, Young’s Market and Wine Warehouse. Live guitar music will be performed by local musician Rod Frias. The golf tournament will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 13. Refreshments will be served at several of the 18 holes, as well as contests such as closest Shot to the pin, beat the pro, and longest drive. The tournament will be followed by a dinner, an awards ceremony, and a silent and live auction. Prizes include certificates for a full round of golf, dinner and wine at several local restaurants, tickets to Angels and Padres baseball games, weeklong stays at Mammoth and Maui condominiums and much more. One of the highlights of the tournament is a $5,000 award for anyone who makes the 15th hole in one stroke. Entry fees are tax deductible. An individual pass costs $150 and a foursome pass costs $500. All proceeds from the pre-celebration and the tournament will go to the foundation’s projects, specifically funding for the second phase of Courtney’s SandCastle, recreation programs and scholarships for needy children. To register for the tournament, visit www.friendsofsanclemente.org or call 949.278.8866.
SC Resident Releases New Book u San Clemente resident Donald Clinebell released a new book May 15 titled The Service Driven Life: Discover Your Path to Meaning, Power and Joy. In the book, Clinebell writes of the connection between service and God and what people can do to find their own paths of service. The book is available online at www.theservicedrivenlife.com and is also available for download on Kindle, Nook and Apple iTunes stores. Clinebell is a 30-year resident of San Clemente. He is a charter member of the San Clemente Rotary Club. He is also the founder of the 7th Inning Stretch Middle School Mentoring and Tutoring Program at Shorecliffs Middle School, an award-
Page 4
Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. Forward a picture along, too! We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
The tee box on the par-4 third hole at Monarch Beach Golf Links sets golfers up to look directly at the ocean. Photo by Steve Breazeale
From the Tee
An amateur’s guide to golf in our south county cities By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times
S
ince picking the game up as a teenager, I’ve become fascinated with golf. I love the ins and outs of every round, which includes the analyzing of a course and how one performed on it. I set out to review all the public golf courses in San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano and came back with a general consensus that we are lucky to live in an area rich in golf history, tradition and quality. I wanted to write reviews of each course from the perspective of the average golfer. I’m not a single-digit handicap and I don’t hit the ball 300 yards, which I suspect a majority of us can’t do anyways. It led to an enjoyable six weeks of venturing out to all of the links in our area and coming back with something I hope will prove useful to those who live in our areas and love to golf. Monarch Beach Golf Links Growing up on the golf tracks of South Orange County, I had only heard whispers of Monarch Beach Golf Links. I knew it existed behind the pearly gates at the St. Regis Resort, and I have caught a few glimpses of it while driving on Pacific Coast Highway. But given the price tag (green fees range between $115 to $175 on weekdays and $135 to $195 on weekends), it was always out of reach. San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
When we went out to play Monarch, my group was in awe. The maintenance, the details, the design — it was all pretty impressive. The course’s claim to fame is the two-hole stretch that runs parallel with the Pacific Ocean. As the par-4 third hole doglegs left, the water gets closer and closer as you make your way within a pitch shot of the sand. Putting on the green with waves crashing behind you is about as Pebble Beach-esque as you can get. “Our guests often comment that our first, five-hole stretch is the most scenic in Orange County and definitely the most strategic,” General Manager Eric Lohman said. We decided to leave our egos at the door and play the course from the second set of men’s tees — the golds — which makes the course about 6,052 yards long. Given the yardage it seems small, but what the course lacks in distance, it makes up for with strategic play. Most tee shots involve hitting over, around or, in our group’s case, into bunkers. Monarch boasts 89 bunkers spread out over this Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course, and they are everywhere. Lohman said that the greens run anywhere between 9.5 and 10.5 on the stimpmeter, a numeric rate used to measure the quickness of a green. To put that into perspective, the greens on the average PGA Tour venue read at about 11. The greens are quick but very, very pure. If there’s one hole that will break your spirits and make you want to channel your inner Happy Gilmore by unleashing a patented putter throw, it’s the par-5 seventh hole, which measures 612 yards from the back tees. A horrible tee shot derailed my game, and I carded a doublebogey seven on this hole, so let’s just leave it there before I have more depressing flashbacks. “I think it (hole No. 7) is one of the best par 5s around… One of the most exclusive clubs to join in OC is for those Page 6
who reach that hole in two (shots),” Lohman said. If you find yourself yearning for that special round where you treat yourself — or others — and splurge a bit, this is a great course. San Clemente Golf Club The San Clemente Municipal Golf Course was the very first course that I played as a teenager. Since then, the course has changed a bit, but much of it remains the same. The rough seems to have been grown out more and there’s less sand plugged in the fairways as I recall. Also, the new clubhouse is an awesome upgrade from the old trailer that used to greet golfers. The front nine, designed by Billy Bell, offers a great opportunity for low scores. The first five holes are wide open, which allows you to be aggressive off the tee without the fear of losing your ball. My favorite hole in that opening stretch is the 485-yard, par-5 five fifth. For a right-handed golfer who shanks the occasional drive, the placement of the tee shot isn’t super important as long as it’s hit hard and not left into the houses. The wind is always at your back, so this is definitely a grip-it-and-rip-it hole and a great place for a long-drive challenge. It wouldn’t be a proper review of the Muni if I didn’t throw in the reoccurring mantra: “Every putt breaks toward the ocean.” I’ve played here for years, and whenever I get paired up with someone, I hear that phrase uttered on the first green every time, and it never gets old. When in doubt, factor in the knowledge that your putt will dip toward the ocean. “The tricky part is that (the greens) appear relatively flat because everything is sloping. It just fools the eyes,” Course Manager Gus Nelson said. www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC Once into the back nine, things get tricky. The par-3 13th hole is always the one that destroys my round. It’s a long and narrow par-3 that forces you to hit a long iron into it, which is difficult for most amateurs like me. A chunky tee shot that morning put me in the greenside bunker, and I had to scrap my way to a double bogey five. The par-3 15th is the course’s signature hole. Once you hit your tee shot over the canyon and drive to the green, be sure to stop for a minute and take in the awesome view of the ocean. Holes 16 to 18 are the hardest holes, at least for me. The tee shot from the blue tees on number 16 is brutal, the uphill tee shot on the 17th is tough and the par-4 18th is hard just because of the sheer length of it. The finishing stretch tests your knowledge of the course and the limits of your game. Talega Golf Club Talega is the newcomer to the San Clemente golf scene. Built in 2001 and designed by Fred Couples, the course is a beauty. What strikes me the most every time I play Talega is how different every hole is. The course includes a drivable par-4, a downhill par-5, and a par-3 with a lake in front of it — all on the front nine alone. The drivable par-4 third hole is a favorite of mine and my regular foursome. It’s always fun to see who has the guts to pull out a driver and go for the green that sits uphill 290 yards away. The hole is littered with fairway bunkers, but if you have a 220-yard carry, you can clear them all and your drive will funnel up to the front, right edge of the green, setting up a birdie opportunity. Unfortunately for my group, on our outing, two balls from two different golfers found their way into the backyards of neighboring houses on the right. The par-5s at Talega are pretty tough, which make it feel vindicating when you play one by the book and get a par or better. “The back nine has three, very challenging par-5s. The long hitters can take advantage of the par-5s where the ‘thinker’ can take the upper hand by playing them smart,” General Manager Peter Dalkas said. The back nine is one of the more unique stretches of holes I’ve played in the area, and the last three holes are tough but fair. If you’ve had a good round up until that point, finishing a few over par on that stretch is a plus. The par-4 18th is a perfect finishing hole. Not only does it look amazing, but it is a great example of risk-reward golf. The tee is placed at the top of the hill with the fairway racing straight down below you. The fairway eventually ends at a lake, which surrounds most of the green front and back. A huge fairway bunker in the middle of the fairway causes trouble for your tee shot and forces you to either go long over it or layup short. Luckily, my driver was on point that day and I hit a good shot over the bunker and got my par, ending my day on a high note. Shorecliffs Golf Club I’ve been donating my golf balls to the bushes and water hazards that line the course at Shorecliffs Golf Club for years now. It’s a course where, if you’re accurate, you can go low and have a good round. But it’s also a course that has the potential to chew you up and spit you out. A San Clemente institution, Shorecliffs has been around since the ’60s and was even frequented by Richard Nixon back in the day. When I asked course General Manager Joe Leicht what Shorecliffs offers beginners and experienced players, he kept bringing up the term “Target golf,” which makes a lot of sense because it’s a course where you have to pick your spots. The first hole is as good an example of this as any. San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
Mission Viejo resident Zoheb Davar tees it up on the par-5 11th hole at Talega Golf Club in San Clemente. Photo by Steve Breazeale
It’s a 530-yard, par-5 that doglegs sharply to the left. A well-struck driver will put you at the corner of the turn and from there the hole narrows drastically with a water hazard along the left side and out-of-bounds markers to the right. “This golf course is very narrow and very demanding, so you have to pay attention on every shot,” Leicht said. “It’s kind of a love-hate golf course… People come out here, and they do very well and really like it because it’s playable and fair… Or, they come out and they just don’t hit the ball very well and they don’t like it at all.” The course may be narrow but it also has some easy and fun holes like the par-4 fifth. When the tees are up at the top of the canyon on number five, your tee shot has to find its way 100 yards straight down to the fairway below. The back nine offers some unique holes, like the par-3 13th, which is as bizarre as it is tough. It’s an uphill par-3 that measures 166 yards, but it plays more like 180. You have to carry an iron all the way up and try and hold the ball on a two-tiered green that slopes severely from back to front. It’s definitely the hardest par-3 on the course. The thing that impressed me the most about Shorecliffs was the greens. They are small and hard to hit but they are in great condition right now. They roll true and quick and they only add to the challenge of the course. “(Good greens) have always been the reputation here for as long as I can remember,” Leicht said. “Even when the turf conditions haven’t been great, the greens have always been excellent.” Shorecliffs is among the more affordable options for golfing in San Clemente, and they’ve kept their prices down in recent years ($24 to $38 on weekdays and $28 to $55 on weekends), which is something they can be proud of. The course is in good shape for the summer and will offer you a good test of your golfing skills. Just be sure to bring a couple extra sleeves of balls. San Juan Hills Golf Club San Juan Hills has undergone a change in recent years. They have beefed up the course with longer rough, made the greens quicker and built a new clubhouse all in the Page 7
span of four or five years. I used to play the course regularly but haven’t in recent months. In just that short timeframe, I was surprised at the differences. On the first hole, I had a slap-in-the-face moment after I putted from the back of the green toward a front pin placement and watched my putt sail past the cup leading to an opening bogey. The greens were a lot faster than I remembered, which was a good thing. I soon caught up to the speed of my putts and played really well and I ended up shooting an 85, which is an above average round for me. The shape of San Juan Hills always seems to fit my eye. The tee shots line up just right for me and the surrounding geographical features (i.e., hills) don’t seem to fake me out and cause me to hit into trouble. As the round went on I started remembering which clubs to hit on which holes. I recalled that the approach shot to the par-4, second hole requires an extra club. I told myself to not forget to bust out the driver and smash it over the lake on the par-4 third. It’s funny how much better you can play when you are in the right state of mind. Plus, I was so familiar with the course, I felt like I couldn’t miss. I like this course because it awards the player who shapes his shot. The tee shot on the par-5 sixth sets up nicely for a right-to-left draw, as does the par-4 13th and par-4 15th, arguably the hardest hole on the course. If you can work the ball a little, you can go low out there. San Juan Hills definitely impressed. SC
PRIVATE COURSES The two area private golf courses are not featured in our review. Bella Colina Towne and Golf Club: 200 Avenida La Pata. San Clemente, 949.498.6604, www.bellacollinagolf.com Marbella Country Club: 30800 Golf Club Drive. San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.3700, www.marbellacc.net www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY NEVILLE ROANE-KING All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.
Sunday, July 1 FIREWORK VIOLATION Via Presa, 300 Block (9:21 p.m.) A caller reported a group of adults and children shooting off “big” fireworks in the middle of the street of the Vilamoura complex. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (8:13 p.m.) A man was seen hanging around Starbucks and possibly dealing drugs out of his car. The man, described as being around 21 years old, was also seen leaving his infant in the car while walking outside the Starbucks. CITIZEN ASSIST Via Golondrina, 600 Block (4:45 p.m.) A man reported that his neighbor sprayed a garden hose at his dog in the backyard, flooding the inside of the caller’s residence. DISTURBANCE Avenida Vista Hermosa/Avenida La Pata (9:03 a.m.) Members of two soccer teams were seen starting a physical confrontation at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. DISTURBANCE Calle Del Cerro, 11000 Block (1:25 a.m.) A caller reported a man and a woman getting into a loud verbal confrontation. The informant told deputies that the male is a Marine and the woman attempted suicide two weeks ago by cutting herself.
Saturday, June 30 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT El Camino Real, 400 Block (11:27 p.m.) A 23-year-old man, listed as a Marine, attempted to flee after a car accident but was detained by citizens. He was later arrested and held on $100,000 bail. It is unknown if he had any prior charges. DISTURBANCE Avenida Vista Montana, 200 Block (3:31 p.m.) A caller reported her neighbors were harassing her after they were served with an eviction notice. She has called to complain about them before their eviction. San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
PETTY THEFT Avenida Vaquero, 600 Block (2:48 a.m.) A caller reported that his cell phone had been stolen and the GPS for the phone shows the thief hiding in the Shorecliffs Golf Course. PROWLER Camino Ibiza, 900 Block (2:02 a.m.) A woman called to report a man was looking through her front window and then ran off to the right of her house. She described him as having dark hair, wearing sunglasses and a baseball hat. DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (12:01 a.m.) Two females were seen physically fighting in front of CVS Pharmacy. No weapons were reported.
Friday, June 29 TRAFFIC ACCIDENT – NON-INJURY Avenida La Cuesta, 200 Block (8:47 p.m.) A 19-year-old driver crashed into a mailbox with his black pickup truck. He was arrested and cited for drunken driving. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 600 Block (8:39 p.m.) A 39-year-old plumber was arrested after a call reporting that he was using illegal narcotics and refusing to leave the CVS Pharmacy. He was held on $50,000 bail. UNKNOWN TROUBLE El Camino Real, 300 Block (6:33 p.m.) A man was detained in the South Coast Church parking lot after pulling a knife on another man. RECKLESS DRIVING Buena Vista, 1500 Block (5:55 p.m.) A man, without a helmet, was seen driving a green motorcycle at high speeds up and down the street. DRUNK IN PUBLIC Avenida Miramar, 200 Block (12:39 p.m.) A man, described as 6 foot 3 inches and 300 pounds, was walking through the neighborhood with a bottle of vodka. It was also reported that he walked into a neighbor’s open garage. HIT AND RUN PARKED CAR Avenida De La Estrella, 100 Block (12:08 a.m.) A 21-year-old driver drove his grey Jeep Cherokee into the passenger side of a parked car and fled. The man was arrested and booked for drunken driving after being found in a nearby alleyway.
Thursday, June 28 DISTURBANCE El Portal, 200 Block (4:26 a.m.) A 26-yearold woman, who listed her occupation as professional surfer, was arrested after fighting with her boyfriend. The boyfriend was treated for a laceration above his eye. She was released the next day after the district attorney refused to prosecute the case. Page 8
SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
CITY EDITOR Stacie N. Galang, 949.388.7700, x109 sgalang@sanclementetimes.com
CEO Norb Garrett
PRINT AND ONLINE
S a n C le m e n te
San Clemente Times, Vol. 7, Issue 27. 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 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
PICKET FENCE MEDIA
ADVERTISING
SC
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com
HOW TO REACH US
Michele Reddick, 949.388.7700, x103 mreddick@sanclementetimes.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS
Andrea Swayne, 949.388.7700, x113 aswayne@sanclementetimes.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@sanclementetimes.com
EDITORIAL Senior Editor, SC Times > Stacie N. Galang City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne Sports & News Reporter > Steve Breazeale City Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith
ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING
Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett
Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes
Accounting Manager > Tricia Zines
> Michele Reddick (San Clemente)
Distribution Manager > Andrea Swayne
> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)
SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke
Sales Associate Angela Edwards
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak
OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed
INTERNS Kevin Dahlgren, Sara Gold, Andrea Maben, Neville Roane-King
WAVELENGTHS: By Jim Kempton
Swimming For A Cure Sets Goal to Raise $25K Group seeks funds for cancer research with July 15 event at Vista Hermosa Sports Park
N
ever doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” —Margaret Mead I usually don’t promote events in the community, although that is a policy I may break more frequently from now on. When I first heard about the Swim for the Cure event from my friend, Frank Bassett, I knew it was something that I wanted to support. It was grassroots, good and totally selfless in its purpose. It is a community event to celebrate good health and raise money for cancer research. The co-chairs of the event, Steve Hops and Barbara Helton, are both cancer survivors. So is swimmer, coach and water polo ace Bob Neely, one of the committee members. Additionally, Steve has lost family members, including his brother, Erik Hops,
to cancer. I don’t think there are any among us who haven’t seen cancer take a friend or loved one. There isn’t a cause that could be closer to home. The Swim for the WAVELENGTHS Cure, organized by Swim By Jim Kempton Across America, will take place July 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The new San Clemente Vista Hermosa Sports Park will provide a sterling venue for the festivities. If you haven’t seen this latest treasure of our community, a week from Saturday is the perfect time to do so. It will make you proud to live here. It may even put some faith back in government – even if it’s just local. Swimmers of all abilities and ages will be participating; if you can swim 25 yards,
there will be events for you. While it is hoped that swimmers will raise some money, there is no charge to participate. The group is trying to raise $25,000 and is already almost halfway there. You can sponsor a team, a friend or a neighbor. The day will begin with an exhibition from the Crown Valley Divers, followed by multiple relays and fun events. Local swim and coaching legend Byron Reidenbaugh will be the event announcer. Lynn Kubasek from Laguna Beach, who has swum both the Catalina and Anacapa Island channels, will be in attendance and happy to answer questions. A raffle will be conducted for prizes, along with a silent auction for a World Core surfboard. And let’s not forget Swim Across America, a great organization that helped our local crew put this on. The SAA community honors family and friends by donat-
ing, volunteering or helping raise money in a continued effort to find a cure. SAA is made up of swimmers, friends, parents, sons and daughters, teachers, coaches and small groups of committed citizens. The kind, as Margaret Mead reminds us, that “change the world.” For more information: http://www. swimacrossamerica.org/site/TR?fr_ id=1620&pg=entry Jim Kempton is the CEO of the San Onofre Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting and supporting the San Onofre and San Clemente State beaches. He loves to swim, however badly, if only to prevent panic when losing his surfboard at outside spots. SC
they cared. It makes me sad that we have shifted to a self-centered “all about me” society. As frustrated and angry as I was, I was more heartbroken that the golden rule these graduates were taught in kindergarten didn’t seem to apply any longer. It is my sincere hope that these people are never treated the way my family and I were treated. I will choose to remember seeing my son and his classmates celebrate their special day they’ve dreamed of for so long. I’ll also remember the smiles, the tears of joy, the hugs and the love that was abundant. So, “umbrella people,” I won’t let you ruin my memory of my son’s graduation. Congratulations, SCHS class of 2012. Just don’t forget what you learned in kindergarten: Treat others the way you want to be treated.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING FAR TOO EXPENSIVE FOR SAN CLEMENTE
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 BEST, WORST SEEN AT GRADUATION SARAH OVER, San Clemente
At the San Clemente High graduation, I was reminded of the best and worst of human behavior. While I will choose to remember the best, sadly the worst will stand out for some time. As we sat in the stands waiting for the Class of 2012 graduation to begin, I eagerly anticipated watching my son graduate with the rest of this awesome class. We sat, in the hot sun like everyone else, waiting patiently. Some shielded themselves from the sun using umbrellas, while others just suffered through it. Most had the courtesy and decency to lower their umbrellas once the ceremony started. Sadly or rudely — pick your word — some did not. This was the case of the three people sitting three
San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
rows below me. Their backyard umbrella, meant for a table because it was sizeable, completely blocked the view of everyone in my family. Repeated requests were met with a collective shake of their head or a shrug of their shoulders as if to say, “too bad.” My final request was desperate. I begged, literally begged, them to please lower their umbrella so we could also enjoy watching our loved one graduate. Did they lower it? No. They raised it and told me we could look under it. However, I wouldn’t let the selfish and rude behavior of these people ruin my day. Instead, as those around us, including the “umbrella people,” cheered loudly for their son or daughter, I joined in a sign of solidarity that took 18 years to get to. Do I think these people realized what they were doing? Yes. I just don’t think
Page 10
LARRY CULBERTSON, San Clemente
Back in 1998, a plan was hatched to buy four lots on Avenida Serra to build affordable housing. To do so, $400,000 of Redevelopment Agency money was used. In 2009, our City Council endorsed a concept that would allow a three-story, 19-unit building with 21 parking spaces. Because existing zoning would only allow eight units, and each would need two parking spaces, code was amended to allow the high-density project. Many concerns have been raised about this project. It is far too dense for that neighborhood. Its size and massing will dwarf the five historic structures nearby, two directly across the street from the site. www.sanclementetimes.com
SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION: By Nicholas Vermillion
World Peace, Prosperity Borne of Fair Trade System promotes interdependence, cooperation among countries
T
he most essential elements for an economic system that promotes world peace and prosperity are: world trade based on comparative advantage, limited trade barriers and a highly competitive market system that focuses on individual efficiency. Economics considers the fact that there are an infinite number of needs to be fulfilled by a limited number of resources. A single nation alone has no chance in fulfilling these needs, but when all nations stand together and work through trade based on each member’s producing power for what is desired at the most efficient capacity, the infinite needs become finite and tangible. Through trade based on comparative advantage, nations focus on what they can produce at the lowest cost, which lowers the price level of a good and increases the quantity that can be supplied within their own borders and on the world market. All nations involved
Letters to the Editor (cont.) Its limited parking will make the scarce parking in the neighborhood even worse. Since it is adjacent to a small, existing public parking lot on Avenida Cabrillo, the site would be far more useful as an extension of that lot. Existing and future businesses on Avenida Del Mar and North El Camino Real desperately need more parking; however, our city staff has told me not to worry about any of those concerns. On June 12, our city entered into a Development Agreement with National Community Renaissance to move forward with the project, with $7,291,259 being made available to the developer. Presumably that is the amount they will spend to build those 19 units, which works out to $383,750 per unit. There are more affordable ways to provide affordable housing. San Clemente has generated a war chest of more than $6 million for affordable housing. This was accomplished by allowing developers to pay a fee for not having to include affordable housing in their projects. An allowable use of that money is for acquisition and rehabilitation of blighted apartments by nonprofit agencies. In 2010, San Clemente helped Mary Erickson Community Housing buy four units in the Vista Pacifica condominium development for less than $230,000 each. That was a good use of available housing funds. Why build new housing when existing housing is available at a lower price? The plan is to rent those 19, onebedroom units for $1,000 per month to a maximum of three people per unit. That is San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
benefit, because by producing a good in the cheapest and most efficient way, the limited resources of the world now can be utilized to produce goods that society desires – instead of going to waste. The freed resources carry over into the production of a good another nation has an advantage in, creating a system where everything is produced in the most efficient way possible, allowing for businesses to prosper and maximizing the satisfaction of society. A trade system like this promotes dependence and cooperation among the countries of the world; each country works for goods of better quality to promote prosperity in the world market, creating the greatest amount of the goods that society needs at the lowest price. With this key idea as the core ideology of the economic system, there will be peace because there will no longer be fighting for the control of resources or dominance
over the market system. The market system, in turn, will assure the prosperity and the best deal possible for everyone. This system encourages cooperation followed by world peace. However, for this system to work, trade must be facilitated by government regulations – that is why, in conjunction with focusing on comparative advantage, the countries of the world must also agree to remove tariffs, limit government red tape and prohibit monopolistic or coercive activities. Tariffs and government red tape artificially raise the production cost of goods while lowering the quantity of goods supplied. This disagrees with the efficiency principles of a competitive and cooperative market system and makes it vital that they not be in the trade equation. It is dually imperative that monopolistic or coercive activities not be tolerated in
FROM THE M I N D OF Z E LE S KI
this prosperous system. Monopolies cheat the market by not working for allocative efficiency or even productive efficiency, and coercive behavior establishes bubbles that cater to private interest rather than the best interest of society. Working for what is in the best interest of society on a global scale constitutes the foundation of the ideal economic system. When people are given what they need, at a price they want, prosperity is guaranteed and world peace reigns. Nicholas Vermillion, who graduated from San Clemente High last month, received a scholarship from the Baha’is of San Clemente for his essay on the Essential Elements of an Economic System that Can Promote Prosperity and World Peace. 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.
CLIMATE CHANGE NEEDS ATTENTION PAUL CARLTON, San Clemente
only about $300 per month less than the prevailing market rate. It hardly seems wise to spend $7.3 million to save 19 tenants $300 per month, but it looks like that is what is going to happen. If we just handed each of those 19 tenants a check for $300 toward their rent on market-rate housing, it would only cost $68,400 per year. We could do that for over 106 years for the $7.3 million we are about to spend.
OBAMACARE CRITIC NONSENSICAL THORIN MURPHY-FAHLGREN, San Clemente
This is in response to Earle McNeil’s letter (SC Times, May 31) criticizing the
Patient Protection and Affordable Health Care Act, also known as Obamacare. McNeil’s letter is completely nonsensical; the health care act has absolutely nothing to do with birth control beyond its aim to get health care for all Americans. Additionally, I hear a lot of people complaining that the health care act is directing too much money toward welfare, but I’d like to point out that the U.S. has become a welfare state. Don’t like it? Fine. Let me just take away your Social Security, tax returns, Medicare and all those other entitlements that Americans have simply grown to expect of the government. Page 11
Amid the myriad of most serious crises immediately affecting the planet at present, the global warming and climate change issue has unfortunately been ignored. This should not be happening as the Earth is rapidly heading for a catastrophic breakdown according to yet another group of climate scientists, this one led by a UC Berkeley professor, Anthony Barnosky. One example is the 35 percent increase in atmospheric carbon dioxide since the start of the Industrial Revolution. Also, in this time frame, the human population has expanded from 1 billion to 7 billion, putting increasing pressure on the world’s limited resources. These resources give us our life support, our crops, fisheries, potable water, diverse species and breathable air. As the world’s population increases to 9 billion by 2050, the pressures will become ever more intense and will lead to innumerable conflicts between nations and population groups resulting in a breakdown of civilization. Let us not forget that global warming and climate change must be acted upon now and that the United States and world political leaders must act now, not later, to avoid this catastrophic breakdown. Do what you can to influence our political and business leaders. To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@ sanclementetimes.com. 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. Please limit your letters to 350 words. www.sanclementetimes.com
San Clemente Homes SUPPLY AND DEMAND
LISTED INVENTORY AND MEDIAN PRICE • CRMLS RESALES - SEASONALLY ADJUSTED
340 W. Paseo de Cristobal , San Clemente T-Street Beach House Located on a corner lot at T-Street beach entrance. This is a Landmark Location and truly a Surfer’s Paradise! Enjoy front row seats at home for the 4th of July Fireworks Show. Unobstructed panoramic ocean views that will seriously take your breath away. Walk to the pier along the sand within a few minutes to experience fantastic shopping and dining. Enjoy world class surfing from home either as a spectator or in the water with great surf break directly in front of home! If you are looking for Spectacular pier & ocean views that is within a few steps to the sand, this is the one for you! Property sits up high for extra privacy. Location, Location, Location!
SALES VOLUME AND MEDIAN PRICE CRMLS RESALES - SEASONALLY ADJUSTED
4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms • 2000 sq. ft. • Offered at $2,988,000 www.340paseodecristobal.com
Chad Fox, BROKER/REALTOR chad@metrocitiescapital.com • www.ChadFoxRealty.com (714) 553-5895 DRE #01821926
MLS# H11058152
MIKE COTTER Broker Associate Cell: 949.322.6009 E-mail: Mike@MCotter.com Visit: MCotter.com Blog: SanClementeRealEstateBlog.com
DRE # 00806890
Real Estate
ExpErt’s CornEr Facts Sellers Need to Know For a Successful Sale To obtain the best price for your home, there are certain things you must do. Price your home correctly. Your Realtor can provide the vital information to help you do that. It can be difficult for sellers to arrive at an effective listing price for their home. Statistically your home will sell for more if it is priced right from the beginning. Remember that you are now living in a model home. It must be kept spotlessly clean, free of personal items. Beds made daily, kitchens and baths squeaky clean are all “must do’s”. If your windows are spotless, it completes the image you want to portray. Engage your kids. Make it a family effort. A great attitude makes all the difference in whether staging is fun or a burden, and the parents set the tone. Walk through model homes to learn. Make note of the fact that it is depersonalized. That ambience is created by design so that people can visualize themselves there. If closets look stuffed the buyer assumes your house doesn’t have enough room. You need three piles to help you organize closets and garages: Give away, throw away and keep. Make your home available to show. Yes, it will sometimes be inconvenient.
Curb appeal. You only have one chance to make a first impression. Fading paint, weeds, kids toys strewn around do not help your cause. Prior to listing your home, have a third party inspection conducted. If one thing is in disrepair, the buyers will assume many problems exist. Get repairs done early. This will make for a more successful escrow. In this market you really need an expert Realtor guiding you through what has become a very complicated, sometimes convoluted maze of documentation. Experience, integrity and professionalism can more than pay for itself in the legal and financial realm. Moreover, in choosing the right Realtor to represent you, you will have assurance that the job is being done well. These days, peace of mind is huge.
DONNA SULLIVAN Coldwell Banker Real Estate Donna.Sullivan@camoves.com DRE #01018041 949-940-5580
Did you Know?
You Can Use Your IRA to Invest in Real Estate You may be able to take advantage of opportunities in the real estate market, even if you think you don’t have the means to become an investor. Most people are not aware that they can use their retirement funds to purchase any form of real estate through a self-directed IRA. By doing so, your investment choices can grow exponentially. Real estate IRA investing opens up a huge range of alternative investments for individuals who are knowledgeable about real estate investing or who work with experienced advisors or brokers, like the Csira Group. Investing in real estate for your retirement may serve as a means to diversify your retirement portfolio to hedge against the cyclical changes in the stock market, economy and bank or government-based investments. In most cases, real estate investments hold the potential to protect against the loss of principal while generating better-than-market-rate returns through income production and capital gains. When real estate investments are not leveraged, both income and capital gains can flow back to the IRA’s tax-deferred status (in some cases, tax-free). What You Can Do in an IRA with Real Estate Buying real estate from an unrelated party with cash is the simplest way of investing in real estate with your IRA. Your IRA can buy raw land, commercial property, residential (i.e. rental) property, real estate options, as well as extend loans (e.g., first and second mortgages) secured by real estate.
There are also a variety of ways that an IRA can participate in a real estate investment without a full cash capital investment. For example, your IRA can co-invest with other parties (maybe they use their IRAs, as well). You could also have your IRA, and other parties participate in real estate investing by becoming members of an LLC that buys and sells property. There are many options available Conclusion In summary, using your IRA is an extraordinary way to capitalize on the depressed values in the real estate market and get a better-than-market-rate on your investment with an appreciating asset. The Csira Group has experience in these types of transactions and can introduce you to partners who provide professional guidance on structuring your investment and tax implications of such an investment. Give us a call for a free consultation.
Surterre Properties, www.csiragroup.com 33522 Niguel Road, Monarch Beach, CA 92629 DAVE CSIRA 949.500.3283, dave@csiragroup.com
THREE STATISTICS THAT SAY HOME PRICES ARE GOING UP with apologies to Mark Twain Mark Twain popularized the phrase, “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” What I find fascinating, however, is the fact that people will rely on popular real estate market statistics to help guide their decisions, even though such numbers don’t often help. For example, homeowners often look up national, state or county market statistics to tell them how their real estate is doing. But all real estate is local. There is really no such thing as a national real estate market. Only an analysis of your home and immediate neighborhood can tell you whether your equity is going up or down. Then there’s the famous “supply and demand” maxim. This universally believed adage, dubbed “Economics 101” for being so obvious, holds that the greater the supply of homes for sale, the lower the average selling price. Conversely, the lesser the supply, the higher the average selling price, all other things being equal. While this must be true, the problem with the sacred formula is that it is difficult to prove with statistics at the local level, where the decision to buy or sell takes place. Looking at a six-year chart of the San Clemente market, for instance, one will notice that a steadily shrinking supply of homes for sale has had virtually no positive effect on home prices. As a matter of fact, the last four to five years have seen falling inventory and falling prices at the same time. This chart practically disproves the sacred maxim. My own experience tells me that this is counter to the reality on the street, but “figures don’t lie,” right? Another predictor or leading indicator of home prices is supposedly the volume of sales. In early 2008, when local real estate prices and sales volume were falling like an anvil through water, many pundits said to watch for a turnaround in volume. Such an event would surely foresee a rally in market prices. The turnaround in sales volume came shortly thereafter in the fall of 2008. But the rally in home prices is apparently just beginning to show up in the last six months, four years late. At this point, I would normally remind you that “figures don’t lie, but liars figure.” But I don’t have a chart for that. For more on the San Clemente housing market, check out MCotter.com, especially latest market statistics and neighborhood stats.
MIKE COTTER Broker Associate DRE # 00806890
Cell: 949.322.6009 E-mail: Mike@MCotter.com Visit: MCotter.com Blog: SanClementeRealEstateBlog.com
HOME AND GARDEN Celebrating 25 Years
stay away from anyone selling out of their home as this will jeopardize the material and labor warranty.
serving North and South Orange County, Finishing Touch Floor’s would like to thank San Clemente for your overwhelming support through the years. We have watched many, many flooring stores come and go….some, being family-run businesses like ours that just couldn’t make a go of it for different reasons. Unfortunately, most of the stores that came and went caused a lot of grief to the community by their dishonest way of doing business and not caring about the people that they were supposed to be serving.
We are more confident than ever that we have the best customer service, the best installers and the most competitive pricing for our customers in all of Orange County. We are a family business who takes great pride in giving consistent quality wood flooring installations as well as carpet and stone installations. We have a no time limit warranty on all labor and have proved this to our customers for over 25 Years. Our overhead is structured in such a way that we are not forced to charge the higher prices and being family-owned, we are not on commission and can make the cost of the total job fit each homeowners needs. Whether it’s wood floors, carpet or stone, we offer the biggest “bang for the buck.”
We have been asked the question quite often from our suppliers, especially in the last few years, “Why is The Finishing Touch Floors the busiest flooring company in North and South Orange County?” Our answer is always the same, “Life is simple; you reap what you sow and our success comes from years of treating our customers with respect and integrity.” It is an easy business to get into, but staying in it is extremely challenging unless you do it right and grow in a healthy manner. The best tip that we could ever give to the floor covering consumer, is never buy from a retail store that does not install the product themselves. Stay away from companies who use labor houses for installation and
Laguna Hills 25252 Cabot Road (949) 770-1797
Long Beach 1804 South Street (562) 428-2523
Los Alamitos 3273 Katella Avenue (562) 493-5497
www.ftfloorsinc.com
We can confidently say that we are a flooring family and we not only know what we are doing but have had the joy of beautifying homes with the right product for the right price for the past 25 years. When quality of product and installation is compared, we will not be under sold. Please stop by or call the oldest and friendliest flooring store today for a quote. Thank you for your business!
Landscape Tip # 8 for 2012
“Install a fire feature such as a firepit or fire place for cool evenings.” We have all seen the license plate frame; “San Clemente Best Climate in the World” After two months of foggy weather we may start to think that whoever came up with that slogan was only here from August to Decemeber. The fact still remains that we don’t own snow shovels, huddle in huge screened in tents even during the daytime and we reserve our 100% deet for camping somewhere else. What seems to happen is that despite the great weather we do have, we can get a little picky about what we consider a nice day and it gets even worse when it comes to the evenings that really cool down with the usual onshore breezes. This chilly daily cycle might make us rush into the comfort of our homes and miss one of the nicest times to be outside; The evening. On top of that outdoor evenings now have to compete with not only the TV, but every other sly form of electronic media. This is may be your summer to draw a line in the sand and regain at least a few evenings a month of enjoying the outside and the conversation of family or friends. What can help is a professionaly designed and of course legal fire feature. (Have your designed fire feature approved by the City Building Department as required) Gas heaters are nice but lack some elements that can be found from various versions of the two following fire features. To start… an Outdoor Wood Buring Fireplace is not only enjoyable at night but can also be a showpiece in our yards during the day. A Gas Fire Pit in the right location with ample seating allows our guests to circle around, talk, stay warm, and go home without smelling like a beach fire. Give us a call and have us consult you on where might be the best location and which feature may best fit your needs and budget. Look for more discussion on Landscape and Hardscape ideas in this years SC Times Real estate section. —Submitted by Rob McFadgen (owner of Costa Verde)
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. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK
thursday
INDEPENDENCE DAY AFTERMATH PARK AND BEACH CLEANUP Volunteer to help clean up after the holiday at Doheny State Beach. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.6172, www.dohenystatebeach.org.
05
ALMA DESNUDA 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $12. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.
friday
COAST CULTURE EXHIBITION: FOSSILS, SHELLS AND SEA COWS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Casa Romantica features a local-interest exhibition that explores the diverse marine, plant and wildlife of the southern California coast, dating back 45 million years to the Eocene epoch. Runs through August 19. Admission $5. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.
06
DJ RAW BLAKE WITH SPECIAL GUEST RUBBER BEAN 10:30 p.m. DJ at OC Tavern. $3. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. NATE HANCOCK 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. RUM SOAKED RAISINS 9 p.m. Live music at Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.3400, www.goodystavern.com. LEROY 6:30 p.m.-close. Acoustic guitar at Zona’s. 647 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.970.4568, www. ZonasItalianRestaurant.com. FESTIVAL OF ARTS 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m. The 80th anniversary of the art fair in Laguna Beach, with lots of fun events, open-air art exhibits, refreshments and more. Cost $4-$10. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.1145, www.lagunafestivalofarts.org. San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
AT THE MOVIES: ‘SEEKING A FRIEND’ OUT OF PLACE Movies set during humanity’s last days aren’t exactly a new cinematic concept. See On the Beach (1959), The Day After (1983), 28 Days Later (2002) and The Road (2009). Even a humorous Armageddon theme is found in indie hit Last Night (1998). Now, Hollywood has given the theme another whirl with Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, one of the longest movie titles this year. Twenty-one days before an asteroid’s arrival, insurance salesman Dodge (Steve Carell) is dumped by his wife, and free-spirited Penny (Keira Knightley) breaks up with her boyfriend (Adam Brody). After realizing the need to see the people they care about the most, Dodge and Penny hit the road to find Dodge’s long-lost love and Penny’s © Focus Features family across the ocean. Along the way, they happen upon a few mishaps and bizarre episodes. Connie Britton, Martin Sheen, Gillian Jacobs, Derek Luke and others make appearances. Written and directed by Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist’s (2008) Lorene Scarafia, Seeking a Friend is subtly funny, as is any comedy with dark themes. Satirically, the film starts off fine, but falls short with a wasted characterization of Knightley as a Manic Pixie Dream Girl. Carell and Knightley also have interesting chemistry together, but only as friends in the film’s first half. The similarities to Last Night are so close that, at the end, you just want to watch your old VHS version. —Megan Bianco
saturday
07
SAWDUST FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Annual arts and crafts exhibit. $7.75. 935 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3030, www. sawdustartfestival.org.
VICTORIA SKIMBOARDS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF SKIMBOARDING 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Contest at Aliso Beach. 31131 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach, 949.923.2280, www.wcs.victoriaskimboards.com. HOME AND GARDEN TOUR 1 p.m. The Ecology Center hosts a tour of the Cogdon farmhouse the first Saturday of the month. Free. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org. CUBENSIS 9:30 p.m. Grateful Dead tribute band plays at OC Tavern. $10. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. LIVE MUSIC CRUISE 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Dana Wharf hosts the music cruise on the 95-foot Dana Pride, with a full bar and more. Cost $19. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com. DESPERADO 8 p.m. Eagles tribute band at The Coach House. Tickets $15. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com. JUMPING JACK FLASH 8 p.m. Rolling Stones tribute at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.
sunday
RISE & SHINE FITNESS HIKE 7 a.m.-9 a.m. Join the Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy for a strenuous morning hike. Free. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.
08
SUMMER CONCERT IN THE PARK 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Enjoy a free family-friendly country concert at Heritage Park with opening band: American Made Band, and main band: Rodeo Drive. Free. 3400 Old Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org. ASHUN 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. Page 22
GHETTO RESCUE FOUNDATION CONCERT 6 p.m. Concert with Missiles of October, The Dupp Brothers, members of Common Sense and members of Honk at The Coach House. $20. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.
monday
MOMMY MOVIE MONDAY 10 a.m. Special screening of The Amazing Spider-Man for parents of infants at the Krikorian, with early-bird prices. 641 Camino de los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7469, www.kptmovies.com.
09
WINE CLASS 6:45 p.m.-9:15 p.m. A four-week comprehensive wine credential class at The Cellar. $399. Register at: www.learnaboutwine.com. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.
tuesday
FAMILY SCIENCE NIGHT 6 p.m.-8 p.m. The Ocean Institute features this family event with presentations by a scientist, activities for kids and a lab. Cost is $7 per person or $25 per family. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.
10
ELEMENTAL AWARENESS CAMP: A KIDS CAMP OF SURVIVAL SKILLS 10 a.m.-2 p.m. A three-day camp at The Ecology Center for ages 8 to 13 to learn survival skills and positive ways to interact and affect our natural environment. $160. Sign up online. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, www.theecologycenter.org.
wednesday
11
JARED PALIZOLLA 9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.
WOMEN’S WEDNESDAY WINE & NETWORKING EVENT 5:45 p.m.-8 p.m. Networking group for women at San Clemente Wine Company. 2 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com www.sanclementetimes.com
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.
Business Beat
BY SARA GOLD
News and updates on San Clemente’s business community
NEW DEVELOPMENTS u Blazonco, a web design and online marketing agency located in San Clemente, recently announced the hiring of 25 percent more staff. “We are thrilled to welcome so many new talented people to the team,” said CEO Michael Sterner in a news release. “I know that the increase in staff will help us better serve our small business clients.” For the past 14 years, Blazonco has assisted companies with aspects of online business, including web design, branding, Internet marketing, search engine optimization, social media and pay-per click management. u The Juice It Up at 802-J Avenida Pico recently installed a raw juice bar, which caters to patrons looking for a healthy, delicious fix. “We’ve noticed an increasing number of customers want the freshest, healthiest options available,” owner Melissa Caverly said in a news release. “I wanted to be able to provide the community with other options and raw juice blends are the most authentic and purest way for us to meet consumers’ nutritional needs.” An addition to Juice It Up’s wide selection of smoothies, the raw juice bar will introduce seven new juice blends, made with ingredients such as kale, spinach, celery, cucumber, carrots, lemon and ginger. For more information, call 949.542.7979 or visit juiceitup.com. u Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, which has been serving breakfast and lunch in Dana Point for the past 24 years, introduced its new dinner hours starting June 16. The deli, located at 34085 PCH in Blue Lantern Plaza, is now open from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Monday-Saturday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays. The deli is owned by San Clemente resident Tom Blake. In addition to the standard deli menu, chips, salsa, guacamole and nachos, as well as beer and wine, will be served during dinner
San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
hours. To contact Tutor and Spunky’s Deli, call 949.248.1681 or visit tutorandspunkys.com.
GIVING BACK u In May, 40 to 50 associates of Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty in San Clemente participated in “RED Day,” Keller Williams Realty’s nationwide community service initiative that spans the United States and Canada. In order to “Renew, Energize and Donate,” or RED, the associates completed improvement projects at Camp Pendleton while spending the day with the Security Battalion Marines. The associates refurbished the basketball court, built a regulation horseshoe pit and constructed a wood deck with built-in benches. “This event is an entrenched part of Keller Williams Realty’s culture and displays the extraordinary effect a company can have when individuals come together to work as a team for the greater good of everyone,” said team leader Ric Hernandez in a news release. “Last year, we volunteered at Camp Pendleton with huge success and felt the need to serve there again this year. We can’t tell you what an impact it made on each of us personally, it felt so great to give back to the community we know and love.” Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty is located at 111 Via Pico Plaza. For more information about the company or RED Day, call 949.492.7353 or visit kwocc.com. u On June 9, San Clemente Boot Camp hosted “Give a Swab to Save a Life,” a bone marrow drive for Kim McGrath, wife of seven-time Supercross champion Jeremy McGrath. The drive sought a match for Kim McGrath, who was diagnosed with leukemia and recently began chemotherapy. At the event, attendees were able to participate in a boot camp training session and enter a raffle, and 51 people joined the
Real estate agents from Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty donated their time to help build a wood deck for Marines at Camp Pendleton. Courtesy photo
Be the Match Registry. The Sheckler Foundation helped underwrite the event, which raised $1,700.
MILESTONES u After surviving a lethal brain bleed following the birth of her first child, San Clemente resident Kristin Ahmer realized the importance of “squeezing the goodness out of what we are given each and every day.” This philosophy inspired her to found Sili Company, which celebrates its first-year anniversary this summer. In August 2011, Ahmer released the Sili Squeeze, the world’s first reusable, spillproof squeeze pouch, which is designed to contain fruit and vegetable purees, smoothies and mashes, according to a news release. The product can be used as an alternative to disposable pouches for infants and older individuals with eating difficulties. A second product, Sili Squeeze with Eeeze, is designed for hospitals and special-needs facilities. u In light of Conrad & Associates’ upcoming 50th anniversary, the real estate office has launched its social media campaign. In addition to their company website, the real estate agents have a Facebook page, Twitter page and YouTube channel. To find out more, visit the Conrad & Associates website at www.conradrealestate.com and click on the icons for Facebook, Twitter and
Page 23
YouTube. “Please follow us and like us so that you can keep updated with our properties and company information,” owner Steve Conrad said by email. “Be sure to encourage your friends and colleagues to do the same.”
OPENINGS u The B.R.E.A.T.H. Center, a clinic specializing in natural, restorative health, recently opened its doors at 910 S. Camino Real, Ste G-8. B.R.E.A.T.H. is run by San Clemente residents Dona Thompson, who received her degree in health and human performance, and Virginia Schoenfeld, who holds a doctorate and a master’s in public health. Thompson is additionally a certified massage therapist and holistic health practitioner, while Schoenfeld served in the U.S. Navy as a Medical Service Corps and has years of experience as a health and wellness coach. The cornerstone of Thompson and Schoenfeld’s practice is activating the body’s natural healing mechanisms. “Our approach is holistic because we adhere to the belief that the mind, emotions, body and spirit are the core pillars of wellness, which in turn is the foundation for health and well being,” Schoenfeld said in a news release. For more information about The B.R.E.A.T.H. Center, call 949.584.1942 or email yourwellnesscoach@cox.net.
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC BUSINESS DIRECTORY te Sa n Cl em en
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE
CLASSIFIEDS
ENGAGEMENT
OBITUARY
Ashley Roberts & Berkcan Kaya
“Pixie Little” The Little Pug that Defied all Odds
Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com
GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE SAT JULY 7 & SUN JULY 8 7:30 AM Furniture, kitchenware, drapes, books AND 20’ NISSAN MOTORHOME 403 Avenida Teresa, San Clemente GARAGE SALE AT 26371 VIA CALIFORNIA CAPO BEACH, CA 92624 Couch, chairs, bed, lots of great stuff! 7am to 1130 am Saturday July 7th DANA CREST & THE LANDING / DANA POINT 11th ANNUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE! Dana Point, Sat., July 7, 7:30 am - 12 pm, Dana Crest & The Landing, cross streets Golden Lantern & Josiah. Follow the signs & shop till you drop! Sponsored by: Gary Macrides, REALTOR, 01267654, Surterre Properties 949-370-6827
LEGAL WHEREABOUTS AD If you know of the whereabouts of James and/or Candace Eckel, please contact DeVonna Ponthieu, Attorney at Law at (225) 665-1990.
San Clemente Times July 5–11, 2012
Richard & Cheryl Gale are thrilled to announce the engagement of daughter, Ashley Roberts to Berkcan Kaya, son of Halit & Serpil Kaya of Istanbul, Turkey. Ashley was raised in San Clemente and went on to obtain her BA degree from San Francisco State University. Berkcan was born and raised in, Istanbul, Turkey where he graduated from the University of Istanbul. Berkcan met Ashley in San Francisco, while attending UC Berkley. The happy couple will be married in March, at her parents estate, “Le Chateau de Peppertree”, in San Juan Capistrano and again in, June, at a 15th century palace in, Istanbul, Turkey. Page 24
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to you, Pixie Little. You were the best four legged companion we’ve ever met. Thank you for taking such good care of, our daughter, Ashley, your beloved owner. Our lives are forever touched by you and we will never stop missing you. Our hearts break that we’ve had to finally let you go, after all the years of struggles, to keep you with us. You were a fighter till the end and it’s out of the deepest love for you that we could not continue to watch you suffer to stay alive, solely for the purpose of making sure Ashley would be okay. It is with great irony that we have to say goodbye to you, one day after Ashley’s engagement party. You will live on in our hearts forever.. Rest in peace our little pug, Pixie. www.sanclementetimes.com
Locals Only
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
The only directory featuring San Clemente businesses exclusively FLOORING
AIR CONDITIONING Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com
APPLIANCES South Coast Furniture & Mattress 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
949.492.5589
APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G -105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
FURNITURE South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN
949.366.2488 ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 Images/Creative Solutions 2927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com
HAIR SALONS
ART GALLERIES San Clemente Art Association 949.492.7175 100 N. Calle Seville, www.scartgallery.com
BEAUTY SUPPLY Del Mar Beauty Supply 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com
BOOKS
Kreative Hair Design 173 Avenida Serra
949.498.6245
949.492.8180 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
Mathom House Books 949.361.1633 HOME DÉCOR 83 Via Pico Plaza, www.mathomhousebooks.com South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 Village Book Exchange 949.492.1114 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com 99 Avenida Serra
INSURANCE
Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Complete Business Insurance 647 Camino de los Mares Ste. 108, www.HelpYouInsurance.com
949.943.9081
MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPY Janet M. Seymour, PsyD 1443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B
949.633.0813 Dr. R. Tyler Johnson DC, Chiropractic Center 1502 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6440 MATTRESSES www.chiropracticcenteronline.com Christiansen Chiropractic 949.276.2956 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 903 Calle Amancer, Ste. 230, www.christiansenchiro.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
MOLD REMOVAL
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 949.369.1052 99 Avenida Del Mar, www.schmidschocolate.com
COINS GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com
Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com
MORTGAGES 949.350.4692 Brian Wiechman, 949.533.9209 Kevin V.I.P. Independent Mortgage Inc. www.vipmtginc.com/team/brianwiechman
COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES
MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE
San Clemente Computer & Network Services daniel@sanclementecomputer.com 949.276.1581 SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com
CONCRETE
MUSIC LESSONS
Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656 License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 www.danmans.com COSMETICS Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 AVON 949.370.0433 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com Annie Kyle, www.youravon.com/anniekyle OFFICE FURNITURE Mary Kay Cosmetics 949.248.2868 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 www.marykay.com/madams2 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com
DENTISTS
Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 949.493.9311 PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS) www.drericjohnson.com 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com
ELECTRICAL Arcadia Electric www.arcadiaelectric.com
PEST CONTROL 949.361.1045 Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com
FILM AND VIDEO PRODUCTION Red Point Digital www.redpointdigital.com
949.361.0680
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
POOL/SPA SERVICE & REPAIR Radiant Pool & Spa Service www.radiantpoolservice.com
949.290.5616
PRESCHOOLS
HEATING
CARPET
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
Memories Of Me Photos www.memoriesofmephotos.com
PET SITTING
801.573.2370 Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074 San Clemente, dalmatian.love@cox.net
San Clemente Preschool 163 Avenida Victoria, www.sanclementepreschool.com
949.498.1025
V.I.P. Independent Mortgage Inc Choose the Local Lender you can Trust! Deep family roots in San Clemente and Dana Point. Specializing in First Time Home Buyers, 2nd homes and Investment properties. FHA, VA, Conventional, Jumbo, and Portfolio Lending products, Refinances too! Rates are at a historical low, so call Brian Wiechman at (949) 533-9209! V.I.P. NMLS #145502, V.I.P. BK# 0909074, NMLS #331800
Sanctuary Salon & Spa 949.429.5802 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com
PRINTING
SECOND HAND/THRIFT SHOP
Printing OC 949.388.4888 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com The Bargain Box 949.492.2800 PSYCHOLOGISTS 526 N. El Camino Real, Barbara M. Thomas, PsyD 949.547.0833 www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org 655 Camino de Los Mares, Ste. 117 Janet M. Seymour, PsyD 949.633.0813 SKINCARE 1443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B A Beautiful You Skin Care 949.370.1852 Manny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 888.949.5150 1502 N. El Camino Real, www.abeautifulyouoc.com 300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com
TERMITES
REAL ESTATE
Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com
Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631 San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.com TILE & STONE INSTALLATION Century 21 OMA - Eric Benson 949.584.3751 Kohler Tile Contracting 714.768.3077 www.sanclementecoastalhomes.com Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County VACUUMS, SERVICE & REPAIR marciegeorge@cox.net 949.690.5410 Best Blinds & Vacuums 949.492.8719 McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Properties 73 Via Pico Plaza www.livetalega.com 949.464.3226 “Sandy & Rich” - ReMax WATER DAMAGE www.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236 Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com REMODEL Casa Verde Homes 949.212.5800 License #B 906391, www.casaverderenovation.com Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com
RESTAURANTS
TUTORING Tutor Toes 949.429.6222 111 W. Avenida Palizada, Ste. 11, www.tutortoes.com
WEBSITE DESIGN San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345 www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
Café Calypso 949.366.9386 114 Avenida Del Mar #4 WINDOW CLEANING Carbonara Trattoria 949.366.1040 Bayside Window Cleaning 111 Avenida Del Mar, #B, www.carbonara.com The Cellar 949.492.3663 www.baysidewindowcleaning.com 156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com WINDOW COVERINGS
ROOFING CONTRACTORS Jim Thomas Roofing 162 Calle de Industrias
949.498.6204
RUNNING STORE Run More 949.940.0408 303 N. El Camino Real, www.runmore-ca.com
SALONS Salon Bamboo 949.361.3348 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, www.salonbamboo.com Salon Bleu 949.366.2060 207 S. El Camino Real, www.scsalonbleu.com
949.215.2323
Best Blinds & Vacuums 949.492.8719 73 Via Pico Plaza 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
LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@sanclementetimes.com.
SPORTS
5
& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE
SC S a n C le m e n te
OUTDOOR SPOTLIGHT
ACTIVE ADVENTURES’ SUMMER CAMP
Not many summer camps take kids hiking, teach them how to play water polo and take them to a working farm all in the same week. But that is what’s going on at the Active Adventures’ Summer Camp put on by the San Clemente Parks and Recreation Department at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Camp is underway, running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Recreation Manager Pamela Passow is seeing a growing interest already. “The kids are having a great time and enjoying themselves,” Passow said. “I think it’s so popular because
Campers learn how to play water polo as part of the Active Adventures’ Summer Camp at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Courtesy photo
(the camp) is something that is a little bit different from the traditional day camp and it is so active. There’s no sitting around, and the kids are
going from one activity to another.” Because the camp is centered at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park, the recreation crew has a lot of amenities at its disposal. If the staff wants to teach the kids baseball, they just head over to the multiple diamonds available. The same goes for all the other sports. The camp also offers one excursion day per week, where the staff tries to find an outdoor-themed location to visit. Excursions to Angel Stadium and the Irvine Zoo are on tap for the summer. Please visit www.san-clemente. org/recreation for more details. —Steve Breazeale
X Games 2012 Re-Cap: Gold Ambitions Fall Short Local Athletes showcase skills in car, on skateboard By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times
I
f you didn’t catch the 2012 version of the Summer X Games over the weekend, you missed out on some historic performances from two local athletes, Capo Beach’s Tanner Foust and San Clemente’s Ryan Sheckler. Foust, a three-time X Games gold medalist, set a world record doing something kids have been dreaming about for decades. Foust drove a car designed to look like a Hot Wheels toy down a ramp and through a 67-foot loop, after which he came out on the other side and finished with a jump. The feat was dubbed the “Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare.” Afterward, analysts for ESPN said that Foust experienced upwards of seven Gs of force while executing the loop. Not only did Foust go through the loop unscathed, but he did it at the same time as stunt driver Greg Tracy, putting two cars in the same loop, one after another. After completing the loop, Foust had a little bit of trouble with his jump, as his back bumper barely caught the edge of the ramp while landing.
According to the X Games analysts, Foust and Tracy had to maintain a steady speed, somewhere between 48 to 52 mph, in order to stay in rhythm and attached to the track beneath them. After completing the double loop challenge June 30, Foust competed in the rally cross race that he had won three times in the past. The rally cross consists of riders maneuvering their cars around the streets outside Staples Center and Nokia Live with pinpoint precision and speed. Foust jumped out to a solid start in the qualifying stages and placed second in round one of the event. The finals were a different story for Foust. After a few mistakes, he was too far behind eventual winner Sebastien Loeb, and Foust had to settle for a sixth-place finish. Sheckler, a six-time X Games medalist, came within one point of another gold medal in the men’s skateboard street event, but couldn’t impress the judges enough in his final heat and placed second. Trailing eventual champion Paul Rodriguez, who posted a score of 86 in his final
Ryan Sheckler competes in Men’s Skateboard Street Final during X Games Los Angeles 2012. Photo by Christian Pondella/ESPN Images
Ryan Sheckler competes in Men’s Skateboard Street Final during X Games Los Angeles 2012. Photo by Christian Pondella/ESPN Images
heat, Sheckler had to have a big final run to improve on his score of 66.66. Sheckler responded by flowing through the school-inspired course, showing some variety in his last run with flip tricks and impressive grinds, including a bluntside,
grind-rail transfer. He ended his run with a big backside 360, but it wasn’t good enough, and Sheckler posted an 85.33, missing out on gold by .67 of a point. The victory would have been Sheckler’s fourth X Games gold medal. SC
San Clemente High Grad Nite Committee would like to thank all the sponsors that made 2012 Grad Nite such a huge success. WE COULD NOT HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT. THIS EVENT TRULY SAVES LIVES AND HELPS KEEP OUR SENIORS SAFE FOR AN EVENING OF FUN. Ocean Institute Howie’s Game Shack Brian J. Rice, D.D.S Mingee’s Nail & Spa 5 Elements Day Spa & Boutique Rossco Promotions Rascal’s Ladies Over & Underwear Rainbow Sandals Ocean Festival Hobie’s Jacks Surf & Sport Styles for Less Rubio’s Adobe Medical Group Griffin Optometric Group Sachiko Virginia Fukuman, D.D.S. K’s Temptation Boutique Beauty A Go-Go Tim Roham D.O.
Carla Bryan, D.D.S. Del Mar Bazaar Coral Thrift Shop Cabrillo Playhouse Salon De Prelude Golden Spoon In-N-Out Accent Portraits by Diana SCHS Vocal Arts Department Mina Dassoff/Vicki Patterson Harvey Family Christina Reagan Shelby Moiso Laurie Cook Heather Murphy Ocean Minded SuperCuts Krikorian Premiere Theater
City of San Clemente Cycle Werks Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club zpizza Board & Brew Beauty Source - San Clemente Beauty Source - San Clemente Romano’s Chick-fil-A McDonald’s Design’s by Nature Avila’s El Ranchito Adam Pratt San Juan Shell CR&R Disposal Lowes
Bimbo Bakery’s Baked Goods Chick-fil-A Laguna Niguel Burger Junkies Papa Murphy’s Pizza Billy’s Meat & Deli Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar South Coast Distributing Tina & Vince’s Deli Bagel Shack Board & Brew Trader Joes Stater Brothers Smart & Final Warship Life Calvary Chapel Olamendi’s Kelly’s Donuts
Sundried Tomato Rubio’s Avila’s El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant Las Golondrinas Antoine’s Café
Mr. Petes Burgers Romano’s Cassano’s Pizza 6 Large Pizzas Pizza Port Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria Pick up Stix Humphry’s Sandwich Shop Taco Bell San Clemente High School Parents for all their volunteering time and donations for food and drinks
SC SURF
6
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
SC S a n C le m e n te
GROM OF THE WEEK Luke Overin Age: 13, Bernice Ayer Middle School Whether walking the nose on a longboard or shredding on a bodyboard, Luke Overin is one up-and-coming local surfer to watch. This versatile athlete had a great showing in the past season’s Scholastic Surf Series as the top bodyboarder among Orange County middle schoolers, and then backing it up by taking the win in the SSS State Championship Middle School Bodyboard division. He also earned a respectable fifth place finish in longboard. This summer, Luke has already made a podium appearance, taking fourth place in the Boys 14-18 division at the United States Bodyboard Association contest in Huntington Beach. Luke also enjoys Luke Overin. Photo by Jack McDaniel mountain biking, drawing and acting. In school he was chosen for the audition-only advanced drama class. Luke has always been a straight ‘A’ student and says he intends on keeping it that way through high school. “Doing well in school is something I have just always wanted to do,” said Luke. “I know it will help me get into college—hopefully Pepperdine, to study business.” His future plans include a professional bodyboarding career followed by a position in marketing for a surf or bodyboard company—all doable he said, thanks to the support of his family and sponsor Carbon Bodyboards. Luke’s summer plans include an upcoming trip to Lake Shasta to wakeboard, jet ski and fish. “I love to be in the water,” he said, “fresh water, ocean water, it doesn’t matter. As long as I’m in it, I’m happy.”—Andrea Swayne
A Killer Re-model
SURF RESULTS Doheny Longboard Surfing Association Menehune & Junior Championship, June 30, Doheny State Beach
Killer Dana re-opens after major renovations, upgrades with rental shop By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times
K
iller Dana Surf Shop in Dana Point celebrated its grand re-opening June 22 with a Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony. The store recently underwent a huge remodel that included the opening of a new 700-square-foot rental shop offering stand-up paddle equipment, bodyboards, surfboards and wetsuits. Killer Dana is also celebrating their 21year anniversary at the same location. “I’m super stoked on the remodel. I came out awesome. The store is now much brighter, neater and has an updated and friendlier atmosphere over all,” said coowner Ralphie Andrews. “The support shown by members of the City Council and the Chamber at the ribbon cutting made me feel great about
Killer Dana celebrated its grand re-opening at a June 22 ribbon cutting. Photos by Lauralyn Loynes
our place in this city. Our longtime loyal customer base has also been very supportive, sticking with us even after closing the San Clemente store a few years ago. We’ve been happy here—in our original location—for 21 years and are looking forward to many more.” The store, at 24621 Del Prado, is open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday For more information, call 949.489.8380 or log on to www.killerdana.com. SC
MENEHUNE 8U: 1. Bryce Pinkerton; 2. Ty Spencer; 3. Hutton Ortley; 4. Wyatt Tudor; 5. Levi Gage; 6. Dalton Ortley. BOYS 9-10: 1. Gus Day; 2. Levi Slawson; 3. Koby Gilchrist; 4. Callen Viter; 5. Cole Mezak; 6. Quin Dileva. BOYS 11-12: 1. Noah Slawson; 2. Michael Tilly; 3. Josiah Sylstra; 4. Griffin Waale; 5. Malcom McClung; 6. Koa McClung. GIRLS 10U: 1. Alyssa Spencer; 2. Zoe Ziebarth; 3. Kirra Pinkerton; 4. Lux Zebarth; 5. Olivia Stokes; 6. Hayden Rouse. GIRLS 11-14: 1. Kylie Nagy; 2. Meg Roh; 3. Summer Conner; 4. Alexxa Elseewi; 5. Cate Stokes; 6. Cadlynn Viter. BOYS 13-14: 1. River Cover; 2. Kaimana Takayama; 3. Kevin Skvarna; 4. Jack Benjamin. BOYS 15-17: =1. Crawford Viter; =1. Andy Neiblas; 2. Dylan Cox; 3. Perry Rohr; 4. Noah Cordoza; 6. Dean Michael. GIRLS 15-17: 1. Rachael Tilly; 2. Meg Roh; 3. Makala Smith; 4. Kyla Kelley. BOYS SHORTBOARD: 1. Conner Haddadin; 2. Michael Tilly; 3. Cole Mezak; 4. Curran Kennedy; 5. Quin Dileva. GIRLS SHORTBOARD: 1. Malia Faramarzi; 2. Kirra Pinkerton; 3. Lily Benjamin; 4. Hayden Rouse; 5. Gabriella Faramarzi; 6. Alyssa Spencer.