December 27, 2012 by San Clemente Times

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LO C A L

N EWS

YO U

C A N

U S E

VOLUME 7, ISSUE 51

Looking back at the biggest issues in San Clemente this past year E Y E O N S C / PAG E 6

www.sanclementetimes.com

Developer Nixes T-Zone Mixeduse Project

Former Tritons Prepare for Bowl Games

SJC Councilman Suggests Arming CUSD Teachers

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SPORTS/PAGE 14

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

EYE ON SC

Plans are moving forward for the Reata Park and Event Center, after the City Council voted 3-2 to approve a memorandum of understanding with the Open Space Foundation, following a lengthy discussion in City Hall on Tuesday, December 11. Several residents voiced their concerns about the necessity of some features, including a welcome center in the eastern part of town. Many said the park would benefit the future Rancho Mission Viejo development more so than San Juan Capistrano residents. The Open Space Foundation, which will foot the $2.7 million construction cost, plans to build the project in phases, with the first to include everything except a metal barn, presentation center and an area of land currently under a Southern California Edison easement. The park is projected to be completed December 2013, according to foundation President Brad Gates.

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SC S a n C le m e n te

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GO I N G O N I N OU R NE IGH B O R I N G TOW N S

The City Council on December 4 adopted an ordinance regulating the anchoring of vessels within the city’s jurisdictional waters outside of the OC Dana Point Harbor. The new rules aim to curb safety and environmental hazards caused by boats left unattended for long periods of time in the waters off Doheny and Capistrano Beaches. The ordinance limits temporary anchorage to no more than 72 continuous hours within 1,000 yards of beaches and recreational areas. It also requires that boats must be continuously occupied from dusk until dawn and during small craft advisories. Boaters may leave their vessels for a maximum of three hours during the day and may be required to use dye tabs to visually confirm to authorities that their toilets are working properly and no sewage leaks are present. Orange County Sheriff’s Harbor Patrol will handle enforcement.

SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With... 1

…The Olen Project on ECR?

THE LATEST: The project manager for Olen Development Corporation’s proposed threestory mixed-use development on El Camino Real, next to the old City Hall, said the company has abandoned the project, citing “the city’s broken and arduous discretionary approval process.” Mark Zonarich said in an email Thursday that the company decided to abandon the project officially on Wednesday after three years of work. He noted that the project had met or exceeded all of the city’s ordinances and guidelines. “It is extremely disappointing that the citizens of San Clemente have lost out on an incredible project in our downtown,” Zonarich said. “As a professional planner, I must admit that this process has been extraordinarily disheartening and excessively laborious. I have worked for municipalities across the country as a consultant and never have I experienced such blatant opposition when a project has complied with and exceeded the ordinances as much as ours did. Typically, a city would ‘roll out the red carpet’ and fasttrack projects in instances such as this, not throw-up roadblocks at every turn.” City Councilman Jim Evert lamented the fate of the project. “It’s a shame we’ve got ourselves in a position like this,” Evert said. “I think it was a great project.” WHAT’S NEXT: Zonarich stated that the company now plans to simply “give our existing property a “facelift” and keep the large, surface parking lot on El Camino Real.” FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, check out www.sanclementetimes.com — Jim Shilander

… the Future of City Hall?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente Planning Commission voted Wednesday to authorize the city’s planning consultant to review the zoning designations of seven sites around the city, including the land occupied by City Hall as part of the review of the city’s new General Plan. Primary planner Jeff Hook told the council that the city was considering the possibility of moving the remainder of its offices over to the same Calle Negocio offices, where the city planning and engineering offices are located. The current City Hall, or at least the property, could be used for housing, offices or other development, Hook said. The city was currently looking to add areas for mixed-use, medium-density and high-density developments. Residents living near City Hall said they would prefer not to see the property developed as housing, due to concerns over traffic, parking and the stability of the neighboring hillside. Other residents voiced concern over the inclusion of the vacant property at 1300 North El Camino Real, which residents considered undevelopable due to access problems. WHAT’S NEXT: Hook said the current timeline would have the General Plan go before the San Clemente City Council in June for approval. FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, see www.sanclementetimes.com. — JS

…Guns in Schools?

THE LATEST: In response to last Friday’s school shooting in Newtown, Conn.,

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

Councilman Derek Reeve has sent a letter to the Capistrano Unified School District and four private schools, asking them to consider allowing willing staff members, teachers and volunteer parents to carry firearms as a safety measure. “Efforts must be taken to empower teachers, staff and parents to protect our children,” Reeve said in the letter. “It is time as adults entrusted with the lives of children, we overcome our denial.” Reeve suggests firearms could be safely secured in classrooms with no additional funding and that no teacher or staff member be required to carry a weapon. He also provides an alternative that would allow security guard to arms themselves. WHAT’S NEXT: District spokesman Marcus Walton confirmed the district received the letter and rejected any idea to allow school staff to carry firearms. “While we appreciate the councilman’s interest in this topic, we will not entertain any proposal to have staff persons carry firearms,” Walton said. FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. —Brian Park

…Rules for Microbreweries?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente Planning Commission will take up a proposal for a microbrewery with a tasting room and retail sales, which would be located in the North Beach area, at 1640 North El Camino Real. The city has previously allowed microbreweries focused on production without tasting rooms. The city does not have any rules in place for dealing with microbreweries that would serve beer on premises. The applicant, Tom Cordato, has stated Page 3

that he does not intend to sell food. The applicant also intends to sell beer for off-site consumption at the location. The planning staff has recommended that the commission approve the proposal, based on the interpretation that the tasting room would be considered a bar, which is consistent with the allowable uses in the area. WHAT’S NEXT: The issue will be discussed in full at the Planning Commission’s meeting on January 9 at City Hall. FIND OUT MORE: To get more information on the proposal, see www.san-clemente. org. — JS

…A New Apartment Building?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente Planning Commission has approved a proposal for a new apartment complex in the Pier Bowl. The Reef Pointe Villas building would be constructed at the same site as the current building located at 410 Arseno Lane, which would be demolished. The project has also received approval from the California Coastal Commission. Residents in the area voiced some concern that the project would increase a “tunneling” effect already present in the area due to other developments in the area. However, members of the commission indicated that because the project met all of the requirements necessary, the board could not deny the proposal. WHAT’S NEXT: Members of the commission said they would consider concerns about tunneling in this and other neighborhoods during its upcoming consideration of the city’s new General Plan. FIND OUT MORE: For additional information on the project, see www.san-clemente. org. — JS www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, December 27 Read with Chloe 3 p.m. Kids can practice reading skills to Chloe, a certified therapy dog, at the San Juan Capistrano Library. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

Friday, December 28 Senior Birthday Celebrations Noon. Celebrate December birthdays at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center with entertainment by John Cowan. 117 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org.

Sunday, December 30 San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine.

Monday, December 31 New Year’s Eve City Offices Closed City offices closed Dec. 31-Jan. 1 in observance of New Year’s Day; www.san-clemente.org. Library Program Signups 10 a.m. Sign up this week for children’s programs at the library, including toddlertime, preschool storytime and after school club. 242 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org. Senior Center NYE Celebration Noon. Special NYE party at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center with entertainment by Robert Fields. 117 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org.

Tuesday, January 1 New Year’s Day

Wednesday, January 2 TOPS Meeting 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly San Clemente, the international weight loss support group, meets at the Community Resource Center of San Clemente, in San Clemente Presbyterian Church. 119 N. Avenida de la Estrella, 949.498.3052.

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Jim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO City Looking for CERT Participants u The City of San Clemente is seeking participants for its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Program. Residents and members of the business community will learn basic skills to save lives and protect property in the aftermath of a major disaster when emergency services are not immediately available. This includes training in basic disaster skills such as preparedness, fire safety, disaster medical operations, light search and rescue and terrorism awareness. The class meets on six consecutive Tuesday nights, beginning January 15, 2013 and concluding with a half-day drill on February 23. This is the seventh training session offered by the city, in partnership with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and the Orange County Fire Authority. Participants are required to attend all class sessions. Program graduates are invited to join the city’s CERT Team. To register or obtain additional information, please contact Katie Carpenter, emergency planning assistant with the city of San Clemente at 949.361.6145 or at cert@san-clemente.org.

approximately $128,000 for the rest of the school year. District schools and offices will be closed for the Winter recess and Christmas holiday through January 4. Students return to class on Monday, January 7.

SCHS Dance Team Coaches Presenting Workshop u Anyone interested in learning what it takes to be a member of the SCHS Dance Team can attend a workshop with director Jeane McPhee and coaches Kaely McPhee and Hartley Klement. The coaches will be holding a skills assessment workshop for dancers, grades 8-11 who are interested in trying out for the team. Dancers will learn and be evaluated on both lyrical and hiphop technique. The workshop is scheduled for January 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the SCHS dance classroom (S-1). Cost is $75 and includes written feedback. For additional information, visit the dance team’s website at www.schsdance.org. Visiting the site also allows people to download the registration form. Please note that this workshop is intended to be informational and instructional only. In no way is it a requirement to audition for the team, nor is there any guaranteed or implied advantage in making the team.

CUSD Announces Re-Hirings Middle school libraries will be back to business as usual after winter recess when media technicians who were laid off to help the Capistrano Unified School District balance its 2012-13 budget return to work, officials recently announced. Nearly five full-time positions were eliminated at the beginning of the fiscal year. They will be restored beginning January 7. “We are pleased that we can reinstate these positions,” Superintendent Joe Farley said. “None of the cuts that we had to make were easy, but the decision to eliminate these positions may have been the most difficult. With the passage of Proposition 30, our budget has more flexibility to restore these very important jobs.” Among other duties, the media technicians order library books and magazines, distribute textbooks, and help students learn how to use research tools. Restoring the positions will cost the district

Casino Offering Bridal Giveaway

u As its 75th anniversary year comes to a close, the historic Casino San Clemente is announcing an opportunity for a lucky local bride-to-be: A “Diamond Jubilee Bridal Giveaway.” The giveaway will include use of the newly renovated Grand Ballroom, adjoining rock garden and ocean view Patio of the Stars for a 2013 wedding ceremony and reception for up to 300 guests, subject to some restrictions. In addition, the bridal couple will enjoy special pricing and amenities from the following Casino San Clemente partners: Jay’s Catering, Brett Hickman Photography, High Society Wedding and Event Planning and Society Band and Tangled Vine on Los Rios. Value of the total Diamond Jubilee Bridal package exceeds $10,000. Written, one page stories about a brideto-be’s life story or love story should be postmarked by January 31, with the winning Diamond Jubilee Bride to be announced on

Valentine’s Day, February 14. Submissions should be sent to: Diamond Jubilee Bridal Giveaway, c/o The Casino San Clemente, 140 W. Avenida Pico, San Clemente, CA 92672 For more information, please contact Casino San Clemente General Manager, Kelly Roemer at 949.870.0025 or kelly@ thecasinosanclemente.com. For further information on Casino San Clemente, visit www.thecasinosanclemente.com.

Saddleback College to Present Chamber Music Concert u Reflections of the Ocean Classical Keyboard Series at Saddleback College, Department of Music, is presenting an afternoon of chamber music with concert artists Grace Fong on piano and Jacob Braun on cello on Sunday, January 27 at 3 p.m. in the McKinney Theatre. Fong enjoys a career as an international concerto soloist, recitalist, chamber musician and teacher. She has gained critical acclaim in the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia, making appearances at major venues around the world, including Weill Hall at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Severance Hall in Cleveland, Ohio, Phillips Collection, Disney Hall, Hollywood Bowl, Great Hall in Leeds, UK, the Liszt Academy in Budapest, Konzerthaus Dortmund, Germany, among others. Jacob S. Braun serves as lecturer of cello at UC Santa Barbara and as adjunct faculty at Chapman University’s Conservatory of Music. Braun enjoys a multi-faceted career as a solo cellist, chamber musician and professor. In the fall of 2009, Braun joined the Penderecki String Quartet as professor/artist in residence at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Canada. Tickets are $12 general; $7 seniors; $5 students; 17 and under free with a paying adult. Teachers with MTAC/CAPT contact the box office to receive complimentary tickets for your students or guest. The ticket office is online at www.saddleback. edu/arts.

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.

EYE ON SC

The Biggest Stories of 2012

22, Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Dunning, 31, Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt, 24, and Sgt. William Stacey, 23, all lost their lives during the deployment. Nearly 50 Purple Hearts were awarded to men in the battalion during the deployment.

Year sees tragedies, triumphs and changes

Vista Hermosa Sports Park Opens After several years of construction and planning, the city officially opened Vista Hermosa Sports Park and Aquatics Center in February. The park includes Orange County’s first universal access playground, Courtney’s SandCastle. The park has already begun hosting a number of community events, such as Carnival Colossal, and has become a major new home for local sports leagues and programs. Fundraising for the second phase of Courtney’s SandCastle, which will include a sensory garden, has begun in earnest, with the city agreeing to match donations to the effort. The California Association of Parks & Recreation Commissioners and Board Members honored the playground in March as the group’s outstanding project of the year for 2012.

By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

012 has been a year of big change and big news in San Clemente. Here’s a look at 10 of the biggest stories of the year. SONGS Leak Leads to Continued Idling The San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station has spent the last 11 months of 2012 shut down, following a small leak from one of the steam generator tubes in Unit 3 last January. The leak occurred due to “fluid elasticity” problems in the generator. The utility also kept Unit 2, which had been shut down for maintenance, off-line after it was discovered that wear had occurred in a similar area to the wear found in Unit 3, though not to the same extent in as many steam generator tubes. After the Nuclear Regulatory Commission investigated the plant, and Southern California Edison responded to their concerns, the utility submitted a proposal to restart Unit 2. No decision has yet been made on that restart plan. Unit 3 will likely remain inactive for some time. SONGS Layoffs Due in part to the trouble at the plant, leaving it idle, Southern California Edison announced in August that it would lay off more than 700 employees at SONGS. The utility stated that it made the decision to cut back on employees after reviewing practices at similarly sized facilities across the country. The layoffs represent approximately one-third of the SONGS workforce. Manuel Loggins Shot and Killed Though no criminal charges were ultimately filed in the case, the shooting of Marine Sgt. Manuel Loggins by an Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy on February 7 galvanized feelings throughout the area. Loggins had taken two of his young daughters for a workout and Bible study session at San Clemente High School early in the morning on February 7. A deputy, Darren Sandberg, himself a Marine veteran, was at the school and attempted to contact Loggins, who ignored him and walked onto the football filed, leaving his two daughters in the SUV. Sandberg called for additional personnel while the two girls remained in the car. After several minutes, Loggins returned and attempted to get in his vehicle, while deputies told him to stop. When Loggins started the vehicle and attempted to drive away, he was shot by Sandberg. The city of San Clemente reached out to raise money for Loggins’ family after the shooting. The

The completion and opening of Vista Hermosa Sports Par and Aquatics Center, along with Courtney’s SandCastle, was one of many big events in San Clemente this year. Photo courtesy of Matt Nachreiner

family is pursuing a lawsuit against the county in incident, and the family has said statements made by the two daughters that their father was acting strangely were made under duress. Elections Change City Council Balance of Power The San Clemente City Council saw a dramatic shift in power this November. Out went 16-year city councilman and four-time Mayor Jim Dahl, and in came firefighter Chris Hamm, who teamed with incumbent councilman Bob Baker during the campaign. The race was marked by accusations of dirty campaigning. A second candidate named Bob Baker was also on the ballot, necessitating a drawing of lots to determine ballot position. The incumbent Baker alleged that political opponents had put up the second candidate, who withdrew from the race after his place on the ballot was secure, in order to confuse voters. The race also saw an increase in spending from outside groups, one of which made claims about Dahl and running mate Mike Mortenson receiving taxpayer funds from the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce that it later had to acknowledge were false. Baker was elected as the city’s Mayor in December, his first such term after first being voted into office in 2008. On the school board side, John Alpay won his first full term on the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees, outpacing challenger Steve Lang. General Plan/Building Height Controversies Members of the city’s General Plan Advisory Commission finished up their work on the city’s new general plan in December, but it was one particular recommendation of the board

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

that drew significant debate during the year. The body has recommended that a height limit be put in place in the “T-Zone” area at the junction of Avenida Del Mar and El Camino Real. The proposal has been championed by groups like the San Clemente Historical Society, who fear a “canyon effect” on Avenida Del Mar. Opponents have claimed the proposal erodes property rights and would put downtown property owners at a disadvantage when the retail development at Marblehead Coastal opens. The Planning Commission, however, struck down the proposal in September after hearing several hours of testimony. The issue still must go before the City Council for final approval. New Ralph’s Opens After years of controversy over its final shape, the new Ralph’s Fresh Fare on El Camino Real reopened August 3. The store had closed the previous December to begin renovations, increasing its size to 8,322 square feet of shopping space, 9,000–square-feet more than before. The initial proposal made by the grocer had called for a much larger facility, at 70,000 square feet, which drew opposition throughout the community and was initially rejected by the city. 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines Returns San Clemente’s adopted Marine Unit returned home from seven months of deployment in Afghanistan in June, and the city welcomed them back in style. The city closed off Avenida Del Mar for a welcome home parade for the unit, the first time the city had welcomed a battalion in such a fashion. While in Afghanistan, the unit had patrolled an area approximately twice the size of Orange County. Cpl. Jonluke Bateman, 22, Lance Cpl. Kenneth E. Cochran,

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City Prepares for I-5 Work Caltrans’ plans for widening Interstate 5 over the next several years in San Clemente promises to create traffic issues for a long time, traffic problems that sometimes cropped up this year as other projects began. But the issue of what the state agency will do to protect residents from hearing traffic, and its failures to adequately do so previously, brought out high spirits throughout the city. Residents along the east side of the freeway lashed out against Caltrans after the installation of the sound walls raised noise levels and blocked views, complaining that the sound walls have hurt their home values and quality of life. During a City Council meeting at which Caltrans officials were presenting their plans for widening project in August (a project that will include additional new and reconstructed soundwalls), residents asked the council to “hold their feet to the fire,” to improve the situation. The agency later agreed to include special sound absorbing tiles in the construction of the new soundwalls. New Police Chief Takes Command Orange County Sheriff’s Lt. John Coppock was named the city’s Chief of Police Services by the San Clemente City Council in March after his predecessor, Lt. Paul D’Auria, was promoted to captain, and moved into the role of commander of the Orange County jail in January. Coppock, a 26-year law enforcement veteran, had previously served in San Clemente before the city contracted for police services with the county. Coppock, who was forced to deal with the aftermath of the Loggins shooting, has tried to make officers more accessible to the community. A citizen police academy, proposed by Coppock in the fall, would allow residents to get insight into what police officers in the city do and will begin next year. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC B ES T

O F

SC Sheriff’s Blotter 2012

COMPILED BY ARIANA CRISAFULLI 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.

January WELFARE CHECK Calle Gomero, 900 Block (Monday, January 9, 1:24 p.m.) A woman called to ask deputies to check on a friend who phoned earlier and said her husband had rolled her up in a piece of carpet three hours earlier. SUSPICIOUS PERSONS/CIRCUMSTANCES Mariposa, 200 Block (Tuesday, January 24, 11:49 a.m.) A man had taken apart a hot water heater and moved a washing machine due to mold. When told he was at the wrong location, he left and did not replace anything.

February SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES Camino de Los Mares, 600 Block (Monday, February 20, 8:27 a.m.) Deputies were directed to a woman who was crying because she “misplaced” her male companion. Both man and woman may have been under the influence of something. DISTURBANCE Canada, 100 Block (Sunday, February 19, 10:13 p.m.) A resident reported asking four or five men smoking marijuana on a patio to keep it down. One yelled back for him to be quiet or he’d shoot him.

April PETTY THEFT El Camino Real, 1800 Block (Monday, April 30, 3:36 p.m.) A man stole a woman’s burrito and cheese stick after he threatened to punch her in the face if she didn’t hand over her food. The burrito thief was tracked down and found at a bus stop nearby where he was taken into custody. The 34-year-old man, whose occupation is listed as a cook, was taken into custody on $50,000 bail.

May SUSPICIOUS PERSON-CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida De Los Lobos Marinos, 500 Block (Saturday, May 5, 10:53 a.m.) A caller was concerned about a man dancing in the street “like a crazy person.” The dancing

man was seen the day before when he was asking people for their cell phones. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2400 Block (Saturday, May 12, 1:03 p.m.) A woman was evicted from a motel May 11 and came back the next day to harass the owner. This time she returned wearing a skirted bathing suit and carrying bananas in both hands. She was seen making “rude gestures” with the fruit and was giving the middle finger to the owner.

June PATROL CHECK Avenida Pico/Camino La Pedriza (Sunday, June 8, 11:40 p.m.) A patrol check was requested in the area after a caller reported water from an unknown source “shooting into the air like the Bellagio water show.” SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Victoria, 600 Block (Saturday, June 9, 6:51 p.m.) A caller reported a man was running down the San Clemente Pier, spraying people with an unknown substance. The subject was dressed in camouflage clothing and a mask and was last seen south of the Pier. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2300 Block (Tuesday, June 17, 1 a.m.) A caller reported that a man was hanging “like a koala” from a traffic signal. SHOTS HEARD Calle Puente, 1100 Block (Saturday, June 23, 1:59 a.m.) A Marine called to report that he heard two gunshots coming from the area and that he is familiar with what a gunshot sounds like. The shots he heard ended up being fireworks.

July DISTURBANCE Calle Seville, 300 Block (Wednesday, July 25, 8:15 p.m.) A female caller reported that her male neighbor threatened to assault her after she picked up the dog poop that his dog left on her front lawn and placed it on his front step. The caller stated that her neighbor “got into her face.” WELFARE CHECK Avenida Miramar, 100 Block (Tuesday, July 24, 4:21 p.m.) An elderly man, who sounded very confused, contacted police and kept repeating that he is “the first world champion skateboarder” and “there is heroin and cocaine all over.” The man also stated at the end of the call that he fell out of his wheelchair.

August ROBBERY IN PROGRESS La Ronda, 100 Block (Sunday, August 19, 7:34 p.m.) A 19-year-old bald male wearing jeans punched a Stuft Pizza deliveryman and then stole the olive and ham pizza he was carrying in his hands. The deliveryman saw the male run towards the nearby hotel, behind the laundromat.

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Presidio, 100 Block (Friday, August 24, 1:32 p.m.) A man called police after receiving a text message from an unknown phone number about hiding a body.

September PROWLER Calle La Veta, 3300 Block (Monday, September 3, 11:53 p.m.) A local man was arrested after reports of an unknown male wandering through backyards was received by police. A resident noticed movement in his backyard and discovered the man walking around his swimming pool. The man was described as being 5 foot, 10 inches tall wearing only his underwear. FOLLOW UP REPORT Avenida San Diego, 100 Block (Saturday, September 8, 11:01 p.m.) A man was upset that an unidentified third party kept calling the police on him and the man said he wanted to report harassment. He was especially angry because the last harassing phone call interrupted his lovemaking on his birthday. DISTURBANCE Avenida Algodon, 100 Block (Saturday, September 15, 9:44 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a residential neighborhood where an unknown woman was walking around the street screaming that she is the “Antichrist.” The caller described the woman as normal build with light blonde hair, wearing a burgundy poncho and blue jeans. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 1600 Block (Saturday, September 15, 12:12 p.m.) A man called police after another customer at a local business “shook his hand too hard and aggressively smacked him on the back.” SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 2400 Block (Sunday, September 23, 12:06 a.m.) A man called police stating his neighbors were talking to him about planting illegal drugs in his room in a scheme to get him arrested. The caller also stated that he used heroin in the morning, and still may be under the influence. Police dispatchers noticed that the man sound extremely paranoid and mentally unstable. CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Presidio, 100 Block (Friday, September 28, 3:35 p.m.) A female called police stating a man has been living in her home for the past year against her wishes. The woman also claimed she had no idea how the man got into her home.

October WELFARE CHECK Escalones, 100 Block (Friday, October 19, 1:58 a.m.) A man called police and requested a welfare check on himself due to incessant drinking. The caller said he has been drinking every day since his wife passed away five months ago and he

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had caught himself talking to objects like pillows and slippers. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Vallarta, 800 Block (Wednesday, October 17, 11:34 a.m.) A person called to report a group of subjects who were knocking on doors in the neighborhood asking if there were any deaf people around so they could give them a Bible to read.

November KEEP THE PEACE Camino Costado, 4800 Block (Tuesday, November 13, 9:16 p.m.) A woman called saying that she had brought her ex-husband to her father’s residence to help her move, but that he was reading, smoking or sleeping, rather than helping her. The woman was on medication due to recent dental work. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE East Avenida Palizada/El Camino Real (Sunday, November 11, 7:37 p.m.) A man called police after he saw a man lying down in the middle of the street. The caller thought the man was playing a prank because he saw the man get up and walk to the sidewalk and back to the middle of the street where he laid down again. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 200 Block (Saturday, November 10, 11:41 p.m.) An employee of a local business called police when an elderly woman began hitting the workers at the business. The 60-year-old woman was upset the store did not have an item in stock and started slapping the employee on the back and arms. Police were able to calm the woman down and released her to a family member. GENERAL BROADCAST Camino de los Mares/Estancia (Thursday, November 15, 10:10 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for the area after the caller saw a man in a black Cadillac sedan exit the vehicle and roll around on the ground for several minutes before reentering the vehicle. The car had been parked in the same place for nearly an hour.

December SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Ola Vista, 400 Block (Sunday, December 2, 5:38 p.m.) An informant called because she was concerned about an anonymous box left outside her door with a balloon attached that said, “Open this box.” The box contained a Hershey’s Kiss. Nothing more was found to be suspicious about the situation other than its anonymity. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Via Socorro, 200 Block (Monday, December 10, 11:53 a.m.)A caller stated that a man was walking three donkeys and had tried to come onto the campus of a school. The caller said that the man was nice, but thought it was odd he was walking around with three donkeys. www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com

CEO Norb Garrett

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San Clemente Times, Vol. 7, Issue 51. 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.

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EDITORIAL Senior Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne Sports & News Reporter > Steve Breazeale City Reporter, The Capistrano Dispatch > Brian Park ART/DESIGN Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith

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Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett

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> Michele Reddick (San Clemente) > Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano) Sales Associate Angela Edwards OPERATIONS Finance Director > Mike Reed

GUEST OPINION: By Mary Grace Carpenter

‘Things Like That Don’t Happen Anywhere’ San Clemente resident, Newtown native reflects on shootings

he tragic events that took place Friday, December 14, at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Conn., hit very close to home for me. In fact, too close. Newtown is my home. I moved to San Clemente just over a year ago, but Newtown is where I spent my childhood. I have happy memories of attending $2 movies at the Town Hall with my sisters, going to the Labor Day Parade on Main Street and playing my first soccer games on the fields at Sandy Hook. I went to Newtown High School and held my first job working as a lifeguard at the town pool where I had learned to swim 10 years prior. When I left Newtown for the first time to attend the University of Connecticut, most of my college friends had never heard of my small town that was only an hour away. When I graduated college and was deciding where to get married, there was no more perfect place than the Newtown’s Meeting House on our town’s Main Street. It was then that many of my husband’s relatives visited for the first time, and went home to show their friends pictures of our quaint New England town.

To say that Newtown is something from a Norman Rockwell painting is not an exaggeration. My parents still live in Newtown, as do my grandparents. My father sent me a picture of the 26 grave blankets he had made at work at his landscaping company for the funerals being held this week. Each one had either a pink or blue ribbon and he told me that he had said a prayer over each one. A close friend is a reporter for the town newspaper, the Newtown Bee, which once ran a front page article about a shopping cart that been left in a snow bank for too long at the town grocery store. She asked me to pray for her as she wrote the obituaries for the 26 victims for this week’s paper. Many of my friends live in Newtown, some of them even work at Sandy Hook school, and one of them even was among the first responders at the scene that Friday morning. I was in the post office recently, mailing home my Christmas presents, and the man in line behind me asked me where I was sending my package. When I told him Newtown, he was shocked. When I said,

Letters to the Editor SANDY HOOK PROVIDES LOOK AT BRAVERY OF TEACHERS ANDY BROSCHE, San Clemente

The tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School has opened our eyes to a lot of issues built around protecting our precious youth. The loss of five heroic teachers who sacrificed their lives for those of their students will leave behind a legacy of bravery and heroism. During the four years I have been the Director of Operations at the Boys & Girls Club of the South Coast Area, I have had the privilege of meet-

ing, interacting with and working besides some of the most amazing teachers in all of Orange County. I strongly believe that we walk beside these heroes every day, not truly appreciating the love and passion they have for our children. I would like to tell them thank you. We appreciate you. It won’t take a devastating tragedy for me to reach out and tell you that. Whether it is teachers, administrators, youth development professionals or a Director of Operations at a Boys & Girls Club, you must know your children are safe and will always come first.

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

Page 8

“Things like that don’t happen in Newtown.” he responded, “Things like that don’t happen anywhere.” He’s right. I never would have imagined that the president of the United States would be addressing the nation from the same stage where I used to play my French horn for high school band concerts. No one was prepared to deal with the sorrow that has settled upon Newtown and the rest of the world. Yet, I have never been more proud of my hometown. Newtown is home to 27,000 generous, kind and smart people. Many of the people in that town helped to shape who I am, including teachers and coaches who instilled in me many of the values that I still hold. My town has always been full of people who really care about their neighbors, which is why I am not surprised at how they reacted to the tragic events. I knew that Newtown was capable of being an example to the rest of the world of how love can be much louder than violence. Even after graduating and some moving away, those who have gone through the Newtown school systems have a strong

SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak INTERNS Ariana Crisafulli, Kevin Dahlgren, Darian Nourian, Adam Herzog

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.

connection with their school and town. Many of my classmates from all over the country have started fundraisers to help the families of the victims, and to support Sandy Hook School. There have been numerous running races, “I Love Newtown” shirts made to sell and websites put in place to take donations from all over the world. My high school class decided to donate all the money that we had set aside for reunions. I’m sure this is just the beginning of what the people of Newtown will come up with to help both the victim’s families, and to make an impact on the rest of the world who is watching our small, but unbelievably strong town. If you would like to help Newtown, there are a few fundraisers in place. https://newtown.uwwesternct.org/ www.newtownpride.com/ www.giveforward.com/newtownstrongnewtownproud 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.

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

DUPP BROTHERS 7:30 p.m. The Swallows Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

ROBIN HENKEL AND BILLY WATSON 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Award-winning musicians play The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com. BLACK CAT BONE 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

friday

THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Musical comedy at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Tickets start at $20. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.

DAVINE WINE TASTING AND MUSIC 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Live music by George Fryer and wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine (tastings start at 4 p.m.). $15. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com. THE WHITE FRIDAY: PRE-NYE PARTY 9 p.m.-12 a.m. Party at The Shore featuring DJ Marc Moreno. Guests must wear white. Free. 201 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.481.6089, www.theshoresanclemente.com. JIMMIE JAMES 8 p.m. Live music at Wind & Sea Restaurant. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com. MICKEY AVALON 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $25. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

saturday

JIM NICHOLS 9 p.m. Live music at Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.3400, www.goodystavern.com.

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

ONSTAGE AT THE COACH HOUSE: STRUNZ AND FARAH Often described as world music, world guitar, or guitar fusion world music, it is clear that the common theme for Strunz and Farah is “world.” And who better to represent world music than two musicians from opposite ends of the world? With a combination of Latin American and Middle Eastern sounds, Jorge Strunz (Costa Rica) and Adeshir Farah (Iran), have been fusing their cultural backgrounds together through music since they met in 1979 and realized their potential. Though the two come from different cultures, their musical backgrounds are not so different. Both have training in classical, flamenco and jazz guitar. “Part of the reason our styles work so well together is because we have a similar technical style and technique in guitar playing. There is also the fact that the guitar itself is a good instrument, probably the best to Strunz and Farah. Courtesy photo cross cultural boundaries. It’s easy to translate our cultural backgrounds into music,” Strunz said. Strunz and Farah have also played shows all over the world. The two have just returned from India and are still “quite jet-lagged,” Farah said. Now they are back in the West Coast to play a show at the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Sunday, January 6. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25. For more information, or to purchase tickets, see www.thecoachhouse.com or call 949.496.8930. — Ariana Crisafulli

ARCHITECTURAL WALKING TOUR 10 a.m. 90-minute guided walk that includes adobes, Spanish-era dwellings and modern buildings. Meet at Verdugo Street. Occurs every Saturday; a $5 donation supports the Friends of the Library. For more info, call 949.489.0736. JUMPING JACK FLASH 8 p.m. Rolling Stones cover band at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com. PET ADOPTION 12 p.m.-4 p.m. The Ark of San Juan Capistrano has cats for adoption at Petsmart in the Costco Plaza (33963 Doheny Park Road); and 10 a.m.2 p.m. There are dogs for adoption at PetPlus (32022 Del Obispo). 949.388.0034, www.arkofsanjuan.org. ADOBE BRICK MAKING 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Hands-on activity for kids to make their own adobe brick, and learn about the lives of Mission Native Americans at the Mission. $3 plus admission of $5-$9. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

sunday

SMALL WORKS ART SHOW 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Art exhibit on display with winners announced in the San Clemente Art Gallery at the San Clemente Community Center. Runs through Jan. 3. 100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE BALL 7 p.m. Celebrate the New Year at Iva Lee’s with a three-course meal, music by special guests Byron Hudson (country blues) & Nathan James and the Rhythm Scratchers, and more. Reservations recommended. Cost $65 each. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com. NEW YEAR’S EVE BLOCK PARTY NYE party at the OC Fair with hit tribute bands, gourmet food trucks, a demolition derby, Vegas-style games and a midnight pyrotechnic celebration. General admission $37.50, VIP $75. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com. RUM SOAKED RAISINS 9 p.m. NYE fun and live music at Goody’s Tavern. 206 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.3400, www.goodystavern.com. BROADWAY TIME NYE PARTY 6 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Camino Real Playhouse presents a New Year’s Eve party with dining, dancing, party favors, champagne toast and more. Tickets $64. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

tuesday

SALSA 101 7 p.m. Stillwater features a salsa dance class followed by open dancing starting at 8:30 p.m. Admission for dance class is $20; open dance free. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

DONAVON FRANKENREITER 8 p.m. The soulful surfer/musician headlines for two night at The Coach House (Dec. 30-31); opening is Kevin Miso. Tickets $25-45. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enjoy brunch at the Ritz Carlton served in The Pavilions overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Cost $65. 1 Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com.

SUNDAY FUNDAY 2:30 p.m. The Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash play live at The Swallows Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www. swallowsinn.com.

wednesday

monday

THE “DECADES OF BOND” NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 8 p.m. The St. Regis hosts the James Bond-themed party featuring music by Flashback Heart Attack, a DJ, as well as Aston Martin motorcars on display, food and drinks. $75-$105. One Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3200, www.stregismb.com.

Page 10

WEDNESDAY WINE TASTING 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Wine tasting at St Roys Chef’s Pub at Vine featuring four-course food and wine pairings; menu changes weekly. $40. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.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

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

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

ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50: Tom Blake

Which Internet Dating Sites are Best for Seniors? I ’m often asked by singles over age 50 which internet dating websites I recommend. There is no correct answer because everybody has different personalities, tastes, expectations, appearances, website experiences and needs. Karla, Palm Springs, recommends avoiding the free sites such as Plenty of Fish and OK Cupid: “I wouldn’t go to a ‘free dating site’ again. I feel that if a man or woman is serious about finding a quality mate, they should be willing to pay for it--sort of a ‘good faith’ thing. Otherwise, the word ‘cheap’ comes to mind.” She added that the quality of men on freebee sites is very low. And yet, there are other women who have met decent men on the free sites. But fee-based sites aren’t perfect either. Karla said this about a well-known paid site: “Not only is it expensive, it doesn’t accurately interpret one’s personality created from their endless questionnaire.” She cited a question the site asks: “Do you ever drive over the speed limit?” I’ll admit, I don’t see why a question like that is important in finding a compatible mate. Liz, Springfield, Ill., said that that same site is “cumbersome, slow to use and too expensive.” Seniors seeking a partner who shares similar religious beliefs can go to specialty sites such as Catholic Singles, Catholic Match, JDate (for Jewish people) and Christian Mingle, among others. Jennifer said, “Sites that try to connect people on one single common interest (e.g., both people play bridge) cannot assess physical attraction. Sites that allow users to search through a large database are better. People can make their own selections. The only problem with these sites is many people misrepresent themselves. “A lot of the men are married and pretend to be single. A lot of the women are overweight and misrepresent their weight. Some people post photos that are years old

and almost everybody lies about their age. People using these sites need to meet in person to determine the facts and decide for themselves if they are interested. This means doing a lot of screening.” ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 A few of my e-newsBy Tom Blake letter readers feel that sites that cater specifically to older singles such as Our Time, a site formed out of the merging of Senior People Meet and Senior Friend Finder, work best because most of the people on those sites are seniors looking for other seniors. Sue, divorced eight years and an Internet dater for five years, said about Our Time, “The cost isn’t too high, but it’s enough to ward off the odd balls.” She added that if she meets a guy she likes online and they date for three to four months, she will remove her profile from Internet sites. Match.com, which owns Our Time, seems to have a good reputation, but, according to Liz, “does not target the over 50 crowd.” However, Stella, Garden Grove, says the sites that cater to older singles have their flaws as well: “I was on a site for six months. I scheduled four dates, all of which cancelled at the last minute. Also, there were many, many men who wanted phone sex, and several that were married or shacking up and just wanted to see what was ‘out there.’ I did meet a nice gentleman from Canada who was 80, but alas, he also wanted sex. They never change, doesn’t matter if they are 8 or 80.” Mindy said, “Dating sites may be great for some people—they certainly expand the dating circle—but for me, everyone started to blur together. I started responding with ‘hey you.’ I found it disconcerting that someone you did not know would get

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

Page 13

angry when you would not meet them.” Susan, 57, who resides in Australia, commented on meeting up with old friends via Facebook: “Be careful with this one. I have found that even with the passing of decades, they have the same issues with more baggage.” Regardless of the drawbacks on the various sites, lots of couples have had success using Internet dating sites. Gale, North Carolina, emailed, “Match.com was very rewarding for me in 2001. I received two free weeks in my mailbox and met the love of my life, in spite of the distance. He moved south, we married and lived happily until his passing in 2008.” I suggest caution for anyone using these sites, until you are absolutely sure with whom/what you’re dealing. Unfortunately, there are many unstable people out there, both men and women.” No site is perfect. Dawn, who had a beef about a senior site, said, “The biggest gripe I have is the warning that members do not exchange any personal information such as phone numbers or addresses ‘for their own safety.’” She said safety is not the reason: “All they want is to keep their membership list high to encourage future

memberships/subscribers.” Three years ago, I published a book titled How 50 Couples Found Love After 50 (Amazon.com). Of all the couples featured in the book, 55 percent met online. More than half of the people featured were widowed. The most utilized site among those couples was Match.com. Bottom line: The Internet is a doubleedged sword when it comes to seniors seeking mates. It can be a great tool as the plethora of success stories proves. However, it also can be highly discouraging for seniors. There is a lot of rejection, so a thick skin is required. Plus, many, many seniors have been scammed and lost thousands of dollars by being taken, particularly new widows who are vulnerable. Playing the Internet dating game is not for the naïve or faint of heart. Internet dating takes a lot of time, effort, patience, and often, some money. Which site is best? It all depends on the individual. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. In January, there will be two singles 50+ meet and greet gatherings. On Thursday, January 10 and Thursday, January 24. For information, see www.tutorandspunkys. com. SC

SPORTS

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SC S a n C le m e n te

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

SC ALUMS SET TO PLAY IN NCAA BOWL GAMES

With every holiday season comes the NCAA football bowl series. This year, when settling into your couch to take in this year’s games, make sure to keep an eye out for the San Clemente football alumni that will hit the gridiron. The brother duo of Christian and Will Tober will be on the field when the USC Trojans square off against Georgia Tech in the Hyundai Sun Bowl on December 31 in El Paso, Texas. Will, a redshirt junior, has played in two games so far this season for the Trojans and has two total tackles. Christian is a reserve walk-on wide receiver and a first-year freshman.

Former Triton and current Stanford Cardinal Kyle Murphy (78) will play in the Rose Bowl on January 2. Photo by Brian Miller

The Trojans, who entered the season atop many college polls, stumbled down the home stretch, losing to Arizona, Oregon, UCLA and Notre

Dame in four out of the five final games of the season. Former Triton offensive tackle and current Stanford Cardinal Kyle Murphy will be playing in one of the biggest games of the year, as Stanford takes on Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl on January 2. Murphy, a freshman, has seen some time playing with the kicking unit. UCLA freshman wide receiver Nick Pasquale will get his first taste of the college bowl series when the Bruins take the field against Baylor in the Holiday Bowl on December 27. —Steve Breazeale

2012: Year in Review By Steve Breazeale and Darian Nourian San Clemente Times

ere at the San Clemente Times, we scoured our archives to bring you the best sports stories of the past year. From football prospects moving on to the next level to a brand new, stateof-the-art sports facility opening up in town, it’s been a year full of stories worth remembering. Make sure to send your sports news and scores to sports@sanclementetimes.com and follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports for in-game updates and news. —SB

JANUARY • Zerboni’s Jersey Retired: San Clemente alum, UCLA standout and professional soccer player McCall Zerboni’s jersey is officially retired on January 3 during a halftime ceremony. After graduating from San Clemente, Zerboni attended UCLA and was chosen as the 47th overall pick in the 2009 Women’s Professional Soccer draft. She currently plays for the Western New York Flash. FEBRUARY • SC High Athletes Make Their Choices: On February 1, San Clemente High held its national signing day. 26 student-athletes declared their intent to attend various universities around

the United States. One of the more notable signees was highly touted football offensive lineman Kyle Murphy, who chose to play at Stanford University. Player-Manager Makes Debut in Season Finale: In the San Clemente boys basketball teams last home game of the season, fouryear team player-manager and senior Alex Neidl got his number called to start against Dana Hills. “Train,” as his friends and teammates called him, opened up the game with a two-point basket, ending his basketball career on a high note. Triton Soccer Sweeps South Coast League: February 9 marked the date the San Clemente boys soccer team made history by being the first Triton team to go undefeated in league play (6-0-2) and win the South Coast League championship since 1993. Vista Hermosa Sports Park Opens: San Clemente’s $33 million sports park opens on February 25. The sprawling facility boasts three baseball fields, a football field, a multi-purpose field and an aquatics center complete with an Olympic-sized 50-meter pool and another 25-meter pool. The park is home to multiple leagues and teams from around the city.

MARCH • Girls Soccer Reaches 5th CIF Title Game: The San Clemente girls soccer team advanced to their fifth consecutive

CIF championship game on March 2 where they lost 2-1 to league rival Aliso Niguel. The Tritons finished the year with an 183-7 overall record and captured the South Coast League title. SC Cheerleaders Help Those with Special Needs: San Clemente cheerleaders Brooke Renard, Nicole Guillotte and Paige Augello establish Cheer Therapy, a volunteer group that is designed to generate mobility, confidence and fun for children with special needs. The inaugural class took place on March 19.

JULY • SC Sports Hall of Fame Gets ‘OK’: A 4-1 vote by the San Clemente City Council on July 17 ensured that the Vista Hermosa Aquatics Center would be the new home to the San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame has yet to induct its inaugural class.

APRIL • Bernice Ayer Wins Volcom Indoor: Bernice Ayer Middle School takes home the gold at the National Scholastic Skateboarding League’s Volcom Indoor in Costa Mesa.

SEPTEMBER • Local BMX Wins Big: Ryan Goodwin, a 7-year-old second grader at Vista Del Mar elementary, won the USA BMX California State Championship race on September 8 at the Orange Y BMX Track. SC’s Wilson Gets First NCAA Start: Former San Clemente quarterback Travis Wilson gets his first collegiate start under center for the Utah Utes as a true freshman against Pac-12 rival UCLA. Wilson, who graduated from San Clemente High in 2011, was just the fourth true freshman to start for Utah in the school’s history. Tritons Rally to Beat Tesoro: The San Clemente football team exploded for 22 points in the final four minutes of the fourth quarter to stun Tesoro in a 29-21 win on October 26.

MAY • SC Brother Duo Wins Doubles Title: San Clemente boys tennis players Kevin and Ryan Mariano won the South Coast League doubles title on May 2 with a win in straight sets over Capistrano Valley. SC Lacrosse Plays in Title Game: The Tritons boys lacrosse team had a season to remember after dethroning five-time county champion Foothill and earning a berth in the first ever US Lacrosse Southern Section Championship game, where the team ultimately fell to Corona del Mar 9-6 on May 9. Softball Team Wins First Title since ’75: The Tritons softball team won their first league title since 1975 with a 10-8 win over Aliso Niguel on May 9. SC Track Puts on a Show: The San Clemente boys track and field team boasted two individual CIF-SS champions in seniors Herbert Gamboa (100-meter dash) and Quaid Vuncannon (discus). JUNE • Teenagers Step Up, Coach Little League Team to Title: Chris Puckett, 15, and Cameron Shelley, 14, volunteered to coach San Clemente American No. 2, a team that previously had no coach in place. The team won the District 68 Tournament of Champions on June 9. Page 14

AUGUST • SC Water Polo in Junior Olympics: The San Clemente Water Polo Club 10U team finished fifth at the 2012 USA Water Polo Junior Olympics at Stanford University.

NOVEMBER • Girls X-C Win First League Title: The Triton girls cross country team captured their first ever South Coast League title on November 1, edging rival Dana Hills by one point to take the crown. Local Gymnast Wins Gold: 8-year old San Clemente gymnast Katelyn Eichenbaum took home the level five all-around gold medal at the California State Gymnastics Championships on November 18. DECEMBER •Triton Wrestlers Snap Hawks Win Streak: The Triton wrestling team broke Laguna Hills’ 25-year undefeated league winning streak following a 31-29 match win on December 18. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC BUSINESS DIRECTORY te Sa n Cl em en

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 103 or email mreddick@sanclementetimes.com

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE

Call 949.388.7700, ext. 103 or email mreddick@sanclementetimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS FALLBROOK F& B OPERATORS INC. IS ALSO DOING BUSINESS AS SAN CLEMENTE WEDGEWOOD This will serve as notice that Fallbrook F&B Operators Inc. is doing business as San Clemente Wedgewood in the city of San Clemente at The San Clemente Municipal Golf Course Located at 150 East Avenida Magdalena San Clemente, California 92672. Anyone with inquiries regarding this posting should contact Reggie Parks at 949-542-4856.

FOR RENT DANA POINT HARBOR OCEAN VIEW CONDO WITH POOL!! 2 Amazing 2 bedroom, 2 bath gated condo with panoramic ocean view from your balcony. Includes W/D hook ups, upgraded flooring & restrooms, recessed lighting, new paint & appliances. 2 underground parking spaces available. Property is ready to move in! Please call (909) 391-2129 for more detail information or viewing.

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012â&#x20AC;&#x201C;January 2, 2013

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www.sanclementetimes.com

Locals Only

BUSINESS DIRECTORY GLASS SCRATCH REMOVAL

AIR CONDITIONING Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

APPLIANCES

Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

949.215.2323

GRAPHIC DESIGN

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 Images/Creative Solutions 949.366.2488 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com 2927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com

APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS

HAIR SALONS

ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 Kreative Hair Design 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com 173 Avenida Serra

ART GALLERIES

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

BEAUTY SUPPLY

949.498.6245

HEATING Oasis Heating & Air 949.420.1321 31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

Del Mar Beauty Supply 949.492.8180 HOME DÉCOR 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, BOOKS www.southcoastfurniture.com Mathom House Books 949.361.1633 83 Via Pico Plaza, www.mathomhousebooks.com INSURANCE Village Book Exchange 949.492.1114 Complete Business Insurance 949.943.9081 99 Avenida Serra 647 Camino de los Mares Ste. 108, CHIROPRACTIC CARE www.HelpYouInsurance.com 949.240.7445 Christiansen Chiropractic 949.276.2956 GIS/Galvez Insurance Services, Inc. 940 Calle Negocio, Ste. 170, gisgalvez@yahoo.com 903 Calle Amancer, Ste. 230, www.christiansenchiro.com

Schmid’s Fine Chocolate 949.369.1052 99 Avenida Del Mar, www.schmidschocolate.com

COINS 949.350.4692 Kevin

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

CONCRETE Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656 License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com

COSMETICS

MUSIC LESSONS

DENTISTS

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556 Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 949.493.9311 www.danmans.com 647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, Janet Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388 www.drericjohnson.com 413 Calle Pueblo, janpoth@aol.com

ELECTRICAL

OFFICE FURNITURE 949.361.1045

ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST Lange & Minnott 1201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 203

949.492.3459

FILM AND VIDEO PRODUCTION Red Point Digital www.redpointdigital.com

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

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

949.498.6204

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 Sanctuary Salon & Spa 949.429.5802 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com

SECOND HAND/THRIFT SHOP South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com The Bargain Box 949.492.2800 526 N. El Camino Real, www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org

TERMITES 949.496.0123

Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION

PHOTOGRAPHY Memories Of Me Photos www.memoriesofmephotos.com

Jim Thomas Roofing 162 Calle de Industrias

949.361.0680

Kohler Tile Contracting

714.768.3077

WATER DAMAGE

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 PLUMBING 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.4464 Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656 TUTORING License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) www.costaverdelandscaping.com 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.atozleakdetection.com Bill Metzger Plumbing 949.492.3558 949.429.6222 MATTRESSES 1218 Puerta del Sol, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com Tutor Toes 111 W. Avenida Palizada, Ste. 11, www.tutortoes.com 949.496.9731 South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589 Chick’s Plumbing www.chicks-plumbing.com 109 Calle de los Molinos, WEBSITE DESIGN www.southcoastfurniture.com PRESCHOOLS San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345 MOLD REMOVAL www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025 Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.5388 163 Avenida Victoria, WINDOW CLEANING www.sanclementepreschool.com 1393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com Bayside Window Cleaning, Inc. 949.215.2323 MORTGAGES PRINTING www.baysidewindowcleaning.com Clear Windows 949.485.8793 Brian Wiechman, 949.533.9209 Printing OC 949.388.4888 San Clemente, www.clearwindows-llc.com V.I.P. Independent Mortgage Inc. 27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com www.vipmtginc.com/team/brianwiechman WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE AVON 949.370.0433 Annie Kyle, www.youravon.com/anniekyle SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521 Mary Kay Cosmetics 949.248.2868 520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com www.marykay.com/madams2

Arcadia Electric www.arcadiaelectric.com

Santa is back! Ho Ho Ho... Here is the deal... A special session with Santa includes session for 1 child, 15 minutes (additional child is $10) Parents and Doggies are FREE! All digital, printable, high-res. images on a CD are yours to keep! November 24 & 25, 11am- 4pm for $79. December 1 & 2, 10:30am- 3:30pm for $89. December 8 & 9, 10:30am- 3:30pm for $99. Reserve your spot! 949.361.0680 or www.memoriesofmephotos.com

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

LANDSCAPING

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles www.gracorpcoins.com

BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT

801.573.2370

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

PAINTING KC Painting & Decorating 949.388.6829 3349 Paseo Halcon, www.bringcolorintoyourlife.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

PSYCHOLOGISTS

Offshore Construction Manny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 888.949.5150 www.offshoreconstruction.org 300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com

949.444.6323

REAL ESTATE Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631 San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.com Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County marciegeorge@cox.net 949.690.5410 McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Properties www.livetalega.com 949.464.3226 “Sandy & Rich” - ReMax www.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236

REMODEL Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com

RESTAURANTS

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS) Café Calypso 949.366.9386 1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com 114 Avenida Del Mar #4 Carbonara Trattoria 949.366.1040 PEST CONTROL 111 Avenida Del Mar, #B, www.carbonara.com 949.492.5589 Colony Termite Control 949.361.2500 The Cellar 949.492.3663 1402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com 156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

LIST YOUR BUSINESS IN “LOCALS ONLY” This go-to reference tool keeps your business in front of potential customers 24/7. GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED TODAY. Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail aedwards@sanclementetimes.com.

SC SURF

GROM OF THE YEAR Elenna “Lulu” Erkeneff

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

Age: 17, Dana Hills High School Elenna Erkeneff has been brimming with a talent and enthusiasm for surfing for over a decade. But what sets her apart has as much to do with what she does out of the water as in the lineup. Elenna is one of the top female surfers under the age of 18 in the U.S. and also one of the most committed environmental advocates of her generation. Her WSA surf highlights this year include becoming the Open Women Shortboard season champion, second-place finishes in Open Women Longboard and Girls U18 Shortboard and taking third in Girls U18 Longboard. She also won the WSA West Coast Championship contest in Girls U18 Longboard. Elenna is a leader among her school teammates, taking multiple double wins in both shortboard and longboard and being chosen as this year’s MVP in longboard. As an AP student and National Honor Elenna “Lulu” Erkeneff. Society member, Elenna will graduate with honors in the spring and plans to study marine sciPhoto by Andrea Swayne ence in college. She is the co-founder and president of the Surfrider Foundation Club at school and has devoted hundreds of hours to environmental awareness programs, beach cleanups and plastics pollution data collection. She has addressed city councils all over Orange County and government representatives in Sacramento regarding environmental issues. Elenna serves as an ambassador for organizations such as the Mauli Ola Foundation, Natural High and Ocean Minded, has earned the support of many corporate sponsors and was chosen as one of 35 students to attend Google and Algalita Marine Foundation’s 2012 Youth Summit on Plastics Pollution.—Andrea Swayne

Grom Greatness By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

very week throughout the year the San Clemente Times chooses a local grom (short for grommet and meaning, young surfer) to highlight as the Grom of the Week. And every week we are impressed with the quality of kids we meet as we share their hopes, dreams and accolades with our readers. Looking back at 2012, we thought it would be nice to gather the entire year’s worth of young, local talent and offer kudos to them once again. So here’s to the New Year. Here’s to watching as the promising futures of our local youth continue to unfold, offering assurance of a bright future for the sport of surfing and our community. SC

LUIS ALVAREZ

JACOB ATWOOD

NOAH ATWOOD

KAILEY BIGGS

BEN BRANTELL

COLIN BRANTELL

MADDOX BRAY

MAKAI BRAY

BRAYDEN BURCH

GRIFFIN COLAPINTO

BANE CORBETT

LOGAN CROSSAN

CONNER DAND

CURRAN DAND

GUNNER DAY

GUS DAY

TOMMY DOLKAS

BLUE ENGLEKING

ELENNA “LULU” ERKENEFF

TORY GILKERSON & RACHAEL TILLY

JAREN HARRELL

COLE HOUSHMAND

KYLA KELLEY

MASON KLINK

KEI KOBAYASHI

JAKE LERDAHL

EMMY LOMBARD

RYAN MARTIN

XAVIER MATH

DANE MATSON

KADE MATSON

KAELEN MCCRAKEN

LEXI MORGAN

ZOE MORTENSEN

PATRICK O’CONNOR

HENDRICK OSTERKAMP

LUKE OVERIN

GRACE PELKEY

CASEY POWELL

MEG ROH

KARINA ROZUNKO

ETHAN SCHAFFER

JETT SCHILLING

SAMANTHA SIBLEY

DYLAN SONDEREGGER

TAI STRATTON

TREVOR THORNTON

JACK UMBEL

MALIA WARD

ASHTON WRIGHT

San Clemente Times December 27, 2012–January 2, 2013

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