March 21, 2013

YOUR NO. 1 SOURCE FOR LOCAL NEWS, SPORTS, EVENTS AND MORE M A R C H 2 1 -2 7, 2 0 1 3

LO C A L

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VOLUME 8, ISSUE 12

Global Reach San Clemente-based Sambazon sending açaí products around the world E Y E O N S C / PAG E 6

Ryan Black, left, Ed Nichols and Jeremy Black have lead San Clemente-based Sambazon to become a global provider of açaí products. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

www.sanclementetimes.com

New City Manager Gudgeirsson Prepares for Budget Season

Out in Left Field: San Clemente High School’s Quirky Ballpark

Edison Says SONGS Could Operate at Full Power if Needed

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SPORTS/PAGE 26

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

EYE ON SC

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Previously approved plans to add new improvements at Zoomars Petting Zoo were reversed by the Planning Commission last Tuesday, and now an appeal to save the zoo’s controversial dinosaur replica will go before the City Council on April 2 in its original form. In February, the commission voted 3-2 to approve Zoomars owner Carolyn Franks’ proposal to add shade structures, a fossil dig area, a Western-themed façade and a replica Juaneño reed hut. But Deputy City Attorney Alisha Patterson and city staff requested a re-vote to accurately reflect the commission’s conditions for approval in the final resolution.

The commission came to a 2-2 draw, thus denying the proposal. Commissioner Tim Neely, who voted in favor of the proposal in February, was absent from the meeting. “We’re going back to square one,” Franks said.

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A science teacher at Dana Hills High School was among the three area educators named as Capistrano Unified School District’s Teachers of the Year. The awardee, Randy Hudson, has been a member of the Dana Hills faculty since 1999. In addition to teaching marine ecology, biology, environmental science and oceanography, Hudson has mentored several nationally ranked science teams. “Teaching is like woodworking,” Hudson wrote in his application. “We provide our students with the necessary tools to solve problems but we must also teach them how and when to use those tools effectively to complete their own projects.” The three district winners will be recognized at the Teacher of the Year celebration at Ocean Hills Community Church, 32222 Del Obispo St., San Juan Capistrano on May 2.

SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

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…the New City Manager?

THE LATEST: Pall Gudgeirsson, who was first hired by the city as assistant city manager for administrative services in 1992, on Thursday becomes San Clemente’s seventh city manager since 1964. His predecessor, George Scarborough retired Wednesday.

Gudgeirsson has held the title of city treasurer since 1994 and was elected to the position in 1996.

Scarborough stated last week that Gudgeirsson has been taking on more responsibility at meetings in the last year to help transition into the role.

Gudgeirsson said he’d been meeting individually with city department heads to help set up the upcoming budget.

WHAT’S NEXT: Gudgeirsson said the city had received 112 applications for the vacant assistant city manager position. Interviews will be conducted with select candidates April 10.

Gudgeirsson’s first city council meeting as city manager, on March 26, will focus on the finances of the city as part of the city council long-term financial planning and strategic priorities meeting. Gudgeirsson said the city must prepare to tackle a number of issues, including identifying sources for funding major capital projects, increases in the city’s contracts for public safety and absorbing the costs of maintaining Vista Hermosa Sports Park and Aquatic Center.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.sanclementetimes.com — Jim Shilander

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…Beach Replenishment Funding?

THE LATEST: The Coastal Advisory ComSan Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

mission may look into adding a proposal to an upcoming election ballot to consider increasing the city’s transient occupancy tax and earmark the additional funds to pay for the proposed Army Corps of Engineers beach replenishment project.

Commission member Ken Nielsen noted that such proposals had passed recently in the San Diego County cites of Encinitas and Solana Beach as a part of a number of beach replenishment efforts in the county. San Clemente does have a TOT in place. It currently sits at 10 percent and generated $1.46 million in 2011, according to the staff report. The estimated cost of the Corps of Engineers project, which would put 250,000 yards of sand on San Clemente beaches, is $4 million.

WHAT’S NEXT: According to state law, a special purpose tax must be passed by a two-thirds majority (66 percent) of city residents, in order to take effect.

The measure could be put on the next general election ballot in November 2014.

A special election could also be called before that, but the cost for such a vote would be more than 10 times higher than placing a measure to the general election ballot. The commission could also ask the city council to divert some of the funds collected toward beach replenishment.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, go to www.sanclementetimes.com. —JS

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sion had asked the utility whether it might be possible to operate at full capacity.

Edison is proposing restarting Unit 2 at 70 percent capacity and running for five months to assess tube wear. Unit 2 has remained shut down after tube wear caused a rupture in a steam generator tube in Unit 3 last January, while Unit 2 was down for refueling. Tube wear was subsequently discovered in the steam generator tubes of Unit 2, but not to the same level as had taken place in Unit 3.

San Clemente Green founder Gary Headrick, who opposes the plant restart, said in a news release that the finding only means that a rupture could take place if the company operated the plant beyond 11 months.

“It is obvious at this point that Edison will say or do anything to avoid the scrutiny of a license amendment hearing,” Headrick stated.

WHAT’S NEXT: A final decision on the restart proposal at 70 percent is expected by May or June, to allow the NRC to review the final information sent by Edison. The NRC has stated that an additional public meeting will be held in Southern California before a decision is made.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, see www.sanclementetimes. — JS

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…SONGS?

THE LATEST: Southern California Edison says an engineering assessment of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station states that the utility could operate Unit 2 at full power for 11 months at full tube integrity.

As part of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s investigation into steam generator tube integrity at SONGS, the commis-

…the New City Treasurer?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council appointed resident Mark Taylor as city treasurer on Tuesday, replacing Pall Gudgeirsson.

Taylor has been a member of the city’s Investment Advisory Committee for the last 10 years and is a certified financial planner working at Winthrop Taylor Financial on Avenida Del Mar. He has lived in San Clemente since 1994, after opening

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his business in 1991. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo.

WHAT’S NEXT: The treasurer position is an elected position, but the council chose to appoint Taylor to fill out the remainder of Gudgeirsson’s elected term, rather than hold a special election. Gudgeirsson was reelected last November. Taylor said he will look to continue Gudgeirsson’s efforts toward securing the city’s financial security over the long term.

FIND OUT MORE: For the full story, see www.sanclementetimes.com — JS

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…Alley Improvements Downtown?

THE LATEST: The city and the Downtown Business Association will host a workshop on proposed improvements to alleys downtown.

The meeting is being held at the San Clemente Community Center, Thursday at 7 p.m.

Associate city planner Cliff Jones said the city is examining a number of potential improvements to the alleyways in the area.

The work may include enhanced paving, enhanced lighting and working with different businesses on common trash enclosures.

A similar project is underway on Avenida Granada, Jones said. The city has hired a local firm RRM to prepare the plan.

WHAT’S NEXT: Jones said the city will take the public comment from the meeting Thursday as a guide to prepare a first draft for a proposal that will likely be taken to the City Council in May. A final document will likely come in July.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, see www.sanclementetimes.com. — JS www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, March 21 Opera Concert at the Senior Center 12:30 p.m. Sonia Neil performs opera at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center; wear green. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.

SONGS Open House 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Learn about the nuclear power plant at the Oceanside Public Library. 330 N. Coast Hwy., Oceanside, www.SONGScommunity.com.

Family Storytime 7 p.m. Wear pajamas and slippers to the library and enjoy the Sunshine Readers as they whisk the whole family off to dreamland. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.san-clemente.org.

Friday, March 22 Birthday Celebration Luncheon 12 p.m. Celebration for seniors with March birthdays at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center; wear green. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.

Saturday, March 23 Contingency Notebook Workshop 9 a.m.-11 a.m. The Dorothy Visser Senior Center; wear green. 117 Ave. Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.3322.

Sunday, March 24 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, March 26 Long Term Financial Plan and Strategic Priorities Workshop 4 p.m. City Hall Council Chambers. 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

Wednesday, March 27 Kiwanis Meeting 12 p.m. Meeting at Carrows. 620 Avenida Pico, 949.290.8729, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

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

Legislative and Transportation Council 12 p.m. Chamber meeting at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center-San Clemente with speaker District Attorney Tony Rackauckas. 654 Camino De Los Mares, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

Thursday, March 28 Business Networking Luncheon 11:30 a.m. Chamber event at Bella Collina Towne & Golf Club. Cost $15. 200 Ave. La Pata, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Jim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO Area Students Asked to Submit to Congressional Competition Congressman Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) is accepting submissions for the 2013 Congressional Art Competition. All high school students who are residents of the 49th District of California—which includes San Clemente—are encouraged to submit their creative artwork to the contest. The winning entry will be displayed in the United States Capitol building for 11 months.

Winners will also be presented with two round trip tickets to Washington, D.C.; to visit the nation’s capital and attend an exclusive reception inside the U.S. Capitol honoring the country’s winners.

Guidelines for the competition are as follows: artwork must be two-dimensional; each piece must be no larger than 28 inches by 28 inches by 4 inches, including the frame; artwork cannot weigh more than 15 pounds; work entered must be the original and all work submitted must be framed or have reinforced backing and be ready to hang on the exhibition wall.

Acceptable mediums for submissions include: oil, acrylic and water color paintings; pastel, colored pencil, pencil, charcoal, ink and marker drawings; collages; lithograph, silkscreen and block prints; mixed media, which includes the use of more than two mediums; computer generated art; and photography.

The deadline for submission is Friday, April 26. Students interested in participating in the competition are encouraged to contact Issa’s California offices at 760.599.5000 or 949.281.2449 or visit Issa’s webpage at www.issa.house.gov/student-center/congressional-art-competition.

City Honors Departing 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment The San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, city of San Clemente and Left Coast Brewing Co. will host a barbecue Saturday, April 6, for the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment. The regiment is deploying to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in the next several weeks. The Marines and Sailors will be away from their families and loved ones for over six months.

The barbecue will be held at San Onofre State Beach.

The Chamber is accepting gifts for the Marines and their children. If you would like to donate a gift please contact the Chamber office. Gifts may be delivered to the Chamber office or at an establishment. All donors will be included in the Chamber Business Newsletter.

Examples of gifts include toys, retail gift certificates, dinner or lunch coupons, movie tickets, calling cards and gift cards. Donations of equipment are also being sought to help with the event.

Shoreciffs Middle School students, Madison Bauman and Carni Campbell, were named champions at the annual Orange County History Day competition. The ceremony was held on Tuesday, March 12, to recognize Madison’s individual exhibit on the Holocaust and Carni’s individual documentary on Title IX. The two students will now compete at the state competition in Sacramento, on April 26. Courtesy photo

To volunteer, please call the Chamber office at 949.492.1131 to sign-up.

City Hosting Springtacular On Saturday, March 30, the city of San Clemente will host its annual Sensational Springtacular, with a pancake breakfast prepared by the San Clemente Kiwanis Club.

The event is scheduled from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Vista Hermosa Sports Park, 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa.

Children can enjoy visits with the Easter bunny, play games, make crafts, decorate cupcakes and enjoy the other activities.

The egg hunt, which is sponsored by the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks & Recreation Foundation, begins at 11:15 a.m. for children age 10 and under. Children are encouraged to bring their spring baskets.

The San Clemente Aquatics Center is hosting an event right after—Splashtacular with the Snorkel Bunny. The San Clemente Lifeguards will host the event during recreation swim, including splash and water games and a barbecue lunch by the SC Aquatics Team. Standard fees apply for pool entry.

To become a sponsor of this event in honor of the men and women of 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, call 949.492.1131.

Palm Sunday Service to Feature Songs from Musical Palm Sunday service at the Center for Spiritual Living Capistrano Valley will feature music from the smash musical “Jesus Christ Superstar” along with a new thought narration that draws insight and wisdom from the last week of Jesus’ life, on Sunday, March 24 at 10:30 a.m. For more than 10 years, the center has offered this popular service to a traditionally standing-room-only crowd.

Featured performers in this year’s service include Rev. Heather Clark as the narrator,

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Madeline Giles, left, and Alessandra Manta, perform a traditional Irish Dance at the Exchange Club of San Clemente’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner, which raised money for the 15 local charities supported by the organization. More than 500 people attended the event. The dancers were from the Aniar Academy of Irish Dance in Laguna Niguel.

Photo by Jim Shilander

Wade Wooldridge as Jesus, Rick Dale as Judas, Karyn Allen as Mary Magdalene and Clark Wilson as King Herod. The performance also features live music from the center’s band under the direction of Diane King Vann. The service is preceded by a 15-minute guided meditation at 10 a.m. The center is located at 1201 Puerta Del Sol in San Clemente.

O.C. Tavern to Host Cabrillo Playhouse Fundraiser The OC Tavern, located at 2369 South El Camino Real, will host a fundraiser for the Cabrillo Playhouse Monday, March 25 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Twenty percent of each customer’s bill will be donated to the playhouse. For more information call 949.492.0465.

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

San Clemente’s Own Brand of Superfood Sambazon’s reach now expands across continents

By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

R

yan Black, his older brother Jeremy Black, and friend Ed “Skanda” Nichols grew up in Orange County as part of the surf culture that defines the area. But it was a discovery that Ryan Black and Nichols made almost half a world away that helped change their lives and inspired the creation of their San Clemente-based business, Sambazon.

Ryan Black and Nichols, were vacationing in Brazil in 1999, taking in the surfing and practicing yoga, respectively, before Nichols prepared to return to the University of Colorado-Boulder and Black went back to Paris for what would be his last year as a professional football player in Europe (Black played college football at Colorado). It was there, on one of the islands off the coast of Brazil, that Black and Nichols both discovered açaí.

The açaí berry is the fruit of a South American palm tree. In Brazil, it mostly grows in the interior of the country, along the Amazon River. The flesh of the berry is about 50 percent fat, but that fat has a similar profile to olive oil, Black said. The berry also contains high amounts of antioxidants and less sugar than other berries.

“The first time I encountered it, it was post surf on a beach in the north of Brazil,” Black said. “To have something post surf, you know it’s hot, and this is cold and refreshing. It also gives you a buzz, between the energy effects of the guarana and the way it reacts with the açaí fruit. It becomes like a functional energy food.”

Black said he and Nichols each tried açaí bowls— a concoction using frozen açaí pulp, mixed with sweeteners, and usually another fruit such as bananas, strawberries or blueberries—separately, about a half-hour apart. They both had a similar feeling, Black said, that they wanted to try it again.

“We were there for another 10 days and we wanted to have this again, but you couldn’t get it everywhere. After eating it for the next week, every other day, we started thinking, how would this be if we had this in California? It’s the same beach culture and it’s a healthy food.”

Nichols said his feeling was similar.

“The word I’d use is auspicious” Nichols said. “There was sort of an ‘a-ha’ moment. It was a local Brazilian that we’d befriended who bought me a bowl without even asking what I wanted. I blinked and my bowl was empty, and my spoon was tapping the bottom, searching for more.”

San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

The founders of Sambazon, Jeremy Black, Ed Nichols and Ryan Black have tried to chart a path that combines sustainability, social responsibility and profitability for the San Clemente-based business. Photo by Andrea Papagianis

After the trip ended and he returned home, Black said he started making calls to produce markets in Southern California to see if they’d heard of the fruit. They hadn’t. When he returned to France, however, Black was determined to investigate further. He had his Brazilian girlfriend make contact with producers. He also researched the product online and began to put together a business plan.

Jeremy Black, then five years into a career as a financial advisor, initially thought the concept was crazy. He came around after his brother and Nichols returned from a second trip to Brazil with a supplier in place. At that point he joined the company.

He is now in charge of marketing and building the company brand.

Ryan Black’s original idea was to create a kind of juice bar centered on açaí—like what he’d found in Brazil—and distribute açaí and other Amazon fruits. They’d also build a company culture that focused on social responsibility and sustainability, he said, and create a foundation that would support various causes.

“I came back from Paris with a business plan in mind and within a couple of months we’d done two things. We went back to the Amazon to talk to the producers who manufactured açaí and could sell it to us,” Black said. “The second thing we realized is that we had a choice to make, we could either go into the restaurant business and open a café, or we could work on the wholesale distribution of this frozen fruit product. We chose the latter.”

But the company has opened two cafés, first in Cardiff-by-the-Sea two years ago, and a second was opened last June in Newport Beach. Sambazon had targeted their 10-year anniversary as a good time to open their first café. Black hopes that the growth ultimately leads to franchises across the country.

The company now sells not only the frozen puree that they built the company on, but has expanded into bottled juices, which now account for the bulk of the business.

The company has built distribution networks across the country with various stores like Albertson’s, Ralphs and Wal-Mart, but made major in-roads when Sambazon’s products were put into Costco stores. Black said the retailer first allowed the company to market the product in stores locally, where açaí had developed a reputation with surfers.

“We first went into Costco in 2009 with a test in Southern California,” Black said.

“Costco has rotations, they’ll give you a shot, a three-month trial. If it sells really well, maybe they’ll keep you. If it sells really, really well maybe another region will say, ‘they’re doing really well, lets test it out in our region.’” The first region was the company’s Los Angeles/Orange County and Hawaii region, which had about 50 stores at the time.

“We demoed the product hard and were successful,” Black said. “Now we’re in basically every Costco building in the world, about 450.” That includes stores in Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Mexico and Canada, he noted. Costco was also considering product distribution in Australia and the United Kingdom. The warehouse store featured Sambazon in an article in its company magazine “Costco Connection” earlier this year.

Headquartered in San Clemente since 2004, Sambazon bottles its juices elsewhere in the country, using co-packers, and has about 100 employees at a plant in Brazil producing the raw materials. The plant was built in 2005.

“It’s right at the equator in the Amazon, very far away from Rio or Sao Paolo,” Black said. While there is a full management team on-site, he explained, he also

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visits four or five times a year. All the managers at the plant speak English and Black speaks fluent Portuguese—language isn’t a barrier. What challenges there are, he said, come from different ways of doing business.

“Here in the US we’re a ‘triple bottom line’ business—focusing on profit, social responsibility and environmental sustainability—that’s kind of touchy-feely, family oriented,” Black said. “Not that it hasn’t translated to our subsidiary, but they just do things differently down there. There are cultural differences that we’ve had to overcome. But we’ve been very fortunate to have strong leaders in Brazil who make operating that company not any more difficult than anywhere else.”

Black said it would be difficult, at this point, to see the company leaving San Clemente, even as it expands. Before coming to the city, Sambazon had largely been based out of the homes of the three founders.

“San Clemente is a great place to live, a great community. It’s pretty consistent, not just for a healthy lifestyle, but a positive lifestyle. We’ve built our home here and we’re proud to be a San Clemente company.”

Having ties to the surf community didn’t hurt matters, he said. The proximity to the water is actually what brought the company to San Clemente in the first place. Black said the “clean water” of the beaches is what attracted the partners to the city.

As the fruit becomes increasingly popular with yoga practitioners, Nichols—a yogi himself—acts as a liason between the natural food and spiritual communities.

“The color purple (açaí appears purple) represents the third eye. I see it (açaí) as a way to open our ability to visualize and to become visionaries,” he said. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY VICTOR CARNO 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 website.

Tuesday, March 19 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Portal, 200 Block (4:03 a.m.) A man requested a patrol check because he heard a banging noise coming from either his backyard or his neighbor’s residence.

DEFRAUDING AN INNKEEPER Marana, 0 Block (2:55 a.m.) A taxi driver picked up a man from the Santa Ana Jail, but the man refused to pay the fare in any way other than a gift card. The driver called police and waited in his taxi until police arrived.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Paseo de Cristobal, 100 Block (1:13 a.m.)

A man called police because someone had just tried to break into his house. The man believed it was his former co-worker, and told the dispatcher that he was checking his house while armed with a knife. When police arrived the caller had put away the knife and walked outside with his hands up.

Monday, March 18 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Aqua/ Camino de los Mares (11:49 p.m.) A man called police at the behest of his friend, who said that two men inside of CVS had his car keys, but that he didn’t know them. The caller and his friend were sitting in the caller’s vehicle. They also stated that the two men inside CVS looked like possible gang members.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Calle Casino, 3700 Block (11:24 p.m.)

A woman called police and told them that her daughter just got home and was “falling apart,” but she refused to ask her what was wrong. The dispatcher noted the daughter could be heard “crying hysterically” in the background. The mother told San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

the dispatcher that her daughter said there was “someone waiting outside.” The dispatcher had to ask the mother to ask the daughter to see who was outside. The daughter replied it was her boyfriend. The mother asked the dispatcher to just send out police.

DISTURBANCE Avenida San Juan/ El Camino Real (10:56 p.m.) A male caller told police there was a man in front of the Chevron station with a gun in his waistband. He also stated that the man was becoming verbal with people walking into the station. The man was described as being in his late 20s, scruffy and having an athletic build.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLE Avenida Vista Hermosa/Interstate 5 (6:28 p.m.) A caller reported a white Honda Civic driving very slowly through the parking lot at the Ralphs grocery store in Talega. The driver was playing loud music and watching people as they exited.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Riachuelo, 2800 Block (3:41 p.m.) A woman stated that her 13-year-old was at home alone in the morning when men tried to break into her residence. There was no description of the suspects other than they were wearing black shirts with tan pants.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Acapulco, 700 Block (11:22 a.m.)

A woman called police and stated that someone had poured “green stuff” all over her backyard, as well on the property behind her residence.

BURGLARY REPORT Avenida del Presidente, 3200 Block (10:59 a.m.) A woman thought that someone had stolen money from her purse because she had left the door open all night long. Nothing else was missing.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Costa Rugosa, 2300 Block (10:45 a.m.) A woman called police because there had been someone knocking on her door.

She did not answer and said she was on

TRESPASSING La Paloma, 200 Block (8:30 a.m.) A landlord called from Temecula stating that a former tenant, who had been evicted, had trespassed and was destroying and breaking things on the property. The trespasser was described as a 28-year-old woman, about 5 feet 5 inches tall, with dark hair.

Sunday, March 17 DISTURBANCE La Paloma, 200 Block (11:19 p.m.)

A caller notified police of a woman squatting in an unoccupied residence. The woman was drunk, yelling and breaking things inside the home.

WELFARE CHECK Via Barracuda, 500 Block (7:37 p.m.) An informant told police he had just received a phone call from an acquaintance threatening to commit suicide. The subject stated that he had just taken some pills and that this would be his last night on Earth.

KEEP THE PEACE Calle Aquamarina, 2400 Block (10:59 a.m.) A woman told police that there may be a fight between her and her husband, because the husband was refusing to take their 17-year-old son to school. The husband said later that his wife may be bipolar.

her balcony and saw the man exiting her backyard. All the doors downstairs were locked. The man was last seen leaving the backyard through the side-gate and driving away in a white truck.

CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Pico, 800 Block (9:38 p.m.)

A man was outside Golden Spoon with a bag of groceries and needed a ride home.

The informant told police the man was friendly, but no one felt comfortable taking him in their car.

DISTURBANCE Calle Mirador, 1400 Block (8:53 p.m.)

Loud screaming could be heard from an apartment complex. It was reported that a woman was screaming that she was getting beaten up.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida del Mar/ Calle Seville (6:20 p.m.)

Four kids were reportedly flagging down drivers. The kids would pretend to ask for directions, but when the car came to a stop they would throw stink bombs into the vehicle.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE Inclinado, 3100 Block (6:26 p.m.) A man working at Bernice Ayer Middle School stated that a group of kids were smoking marijuana on the roof while another group of kids were running around campus shooting paintball guns. The man said that the school has had lots of problems with vandalism on weekends.

DISTURBANCE Calle Polvorosa, 5700 Block (12:20 a.m.)

A woman called police and said that her husband had just slapped her and pushed her down the stairs. When police arrived the husband was found two doors down at a neighbor’s house, where he was arrested. A court date has not been set yet.

Saturday, March 16 DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2000 Block (10:51 p.m.)

A landlord informed police that a tenant had locked him out, after bringing in a cat, which was against the rules.

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SUSPICIOUS PERSON/ CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 1200 Block (5:47 p.m.)

A caller found a man in the laundromat under the influence of drugs. The men said he was lethargic and felt like he was going to throw up. The man then accused the informant of being a racist and then left the area.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE El Camino Real, 1800 Block (9:46 a.m.) A woman walking along the beach saw a kid waving, what appeared to be a silver handgun. Police arrived to find that the child was holding an air powered pellet gun and let him off with a warning. It was reported that the boy’s mother took the gun away.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC El Camino Real, 100 Block (4:52 a.m.)

A drunken man tried to open the glass door to South of Nick’s. The business was closed and the caller was afraid that the man was going to break through the glass.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Palizada/ El Camino Real (4:49 a.m.) A man got into a verbal argument with his cousin, and then later heard from a family member that the cousin was on his way to his house armed with a knife to stab him. The cousin was last seen in a park near Rite-Aid. DISTURBANCE Avenida Aragon, 100 Block (3:09 a.m.)

A caller heard three men yelling at each other, threatening to fight and then reported seeing three people holding a man on the ground.

Friday, March 15 DISTURBANCE Bello Panorama, 2800 Block (11:23 p.m.)

A woman said she had been hosting a party, but it had gotten out of control and she’d asked everyone to leave. Now several people were just standing in the street, refusing to leave. Everyone had been drinking, but no one had any weapons.

TRAFFIC ACCIDENT Calle Valle, 1300 Block (7:52 p.m.) Callers reported a female driver who had crashed into numerous vehicles in a parking lot near the cross streets of El Camino Real and Calle Bonito. Soon after, other callers reported property damage to vehicles on Calle Valle. The driver, a 36-year-old woman, was arrested and taken to Central Women’s Jail.

UNKNOWN TROUBLE Finca, 0 Block (5:11 p.m.) A woman received a call from her ex-mother-inlaw saying not to drop off the kids at her house for a visitation period because their father was on the roof threatening to jump.

The father stated that he wasn’t going to jump, but he didn’t want to go to jail either.

The father seemed to be under a lot of stress. www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

PRINT AND ONLINE

S a n C le m e n te

San Clemente Times, Vol. 8, Issue 12. 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 2013. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

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SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke

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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Victor Carno, Elysia Gamo, Shelley Murphy, Tawnee Prazak, Dana Schnell

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Letters to the Editor THINK ABOUT WHO THE BULLIES REALLY ARE FRANK MARTIN, San Clemente

FR OM THE M I N D OF ZELES KI

I read Jim Cogan’s letter “Applauding those who stand up to bullies” (San Clemente Times, March 7). Well, I received Charles Mann’s mailers and I found them nasty, mean-spirited and bordering on, if not actually, untrue.

Mann won his SLAPP suit. Good for him. Life will go on.

But Cogan’s long tirade about bullying and silencing opponents rings pretty hollow to me. The mailers he defends were like a drive-by mugging. They hardly bring civil discourse to San Clemente. There was bullying going on but Mr. Cogan should think carefully about who was doing the bullying.

BE CAREFUL ABOUT TESTING CHANGES AT CUSD BRIAN MEW, San Clemente

I have always been interested in the way that our school district operates. And today, my AP Language Composition teacher enlightened our class about a possible new development in the Capistrano Unified School District that could reshape the way in which students’ aptitude is evaluated.

She explained that by the year 2015, CUSD may have students completing important tests via computers.

Children would be required to watch videos, respond to visual media, type essays and use the mouse to highlight excerpts from passages. At this stage, it is nothing more than a proposed idea, but is indeed an interesting one. It could bring a whole new dynamic to the testing process for both evaluators and students.

There are a number of reasons for making the switch to digital testing. Scantron testing is not a perfect system and there is a margin of error for misread answers and sloppy bubbles. Eraser marks can completely throw off the results of the test. Computers would eliminate this issue, and the results would therefore be more precise and accurate. It also makes it impossible for a student to go back and change his or her answers after completing a section of the test. This issue cannot be controlled with the traditional method of testing used today, but once a student submits their answers digitally, they cannot be accessed or altered.

However, the change can have negative consequences.

Firstly, it is not cheap to make the switch to digital assessment, especially in these hard economic times. My school, San Clemente High School, has roughly 3,000 students, yet our computer lab is not large enough to hold a tradiSan Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

tional 30-person classroom. Making this change would require the district to spend money that it simply does not have on new computers and programs. Secondly, it is possible that computers will give students access to outside sources they may refer to while testing. Theoretically, any device that is connected to the internet can potentially be used to cheat. Who is to say that a student cannot minimize windows and websites containing helpful hints?

Whether you are for or against the idea, it is possible that the school district may see a major overhaul in the coming years. Only time will tell whether the testing process is ready to make the switch to the digital world.”

REAL CONCERNS ABOUT SERRA HOUSING PROJECT LARRY CULBERTSON, San Clemente

That $7.29 million affordable housing project at 107-115 Avenida Serra keeps moving forward. People tell me, “Let it go, it’s going to happen.” They are probably right. But this project at this site still seems wrong to me. It is just Page 10

too big, too expensive and too detrimental to the neighborhood.

Last June, when the cost of the project was made public, I was appalled. A per unit price of $383,750 for 19 tiny units seems more than exorbitant. The Algodon Motel (19 units) just sold for under $1.4 million. Imagine if the city had been buying “fixer-upper” units in the “neighborhood pride” area over the years. We could have had 100 units of affordable housing paid off by now.

Last week, the developer unveiled the plans for the Serra project. Very pretty drawings, but gargantuan; at three stories and 27,834 square feet. To allow such a huge project to even be considered required both the city’s general plan and the zoning ordinance to be amended.

That made it legal to have 19 units where only nine had been allowed and to only have one parking space per unit instead of two. But these amendments do not release the project from the requirement that it not adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood or historic resources.

(Cont. on page 12) www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

Letters to the Editor (cont.)

(Cont. from page 10) San Clemente’s design guidelines, which have been in effect since 1991, direct developers to “design buildings to be compatible in scale, mass and form with adjacent structures and the pattern of the neighborhood.” There are seven properties abutting the project site on Avenida Serra. Two of them have two-story buildings, five are one story. The square footages of those seven buildings are: 7,000; 400; 957; 1,813; 1,712; 1,445 and 925. The proposed project is 27,834 square feet. That is almost twice the combined square footage of the seven buildings around it.

Who could in good conscience claim that that is, “compatible in scale, mass and form with adjacent structures and the pattern of the neighborhood?”

Furthermore, two of those seven abutting properties are historically significant. Directly across the street, at 110 Avenida Serra is a 1927 Spanish colonial revival home designed by Ole Hanson’s architect Virgil Westbrook.

Immediately next door to the Ole, at 116 Avenida Serra, is a 1947 SCR fourplex. Both of these buildings appear to be in extremely good shape. They perfectly exemplify the small scale, “village character” buildings that form most of Avenida Serra and that most San Clemente residents want to preserve.

Regarding development abutting historically significant sites, the design guidelines state, “new development should preserve and be compatible with existing historic resources. Particular emphasis should be placed on achieving an intimate scale.” There is no intimate scale between a one story, 957-square-foot Ole Hanson home and a three-story, 27,834-square-foot monolith towering directly across the street from it. As you drive up Avenida

Serra, you will see the 300-square-foot “face” of the Ole on the left, and the 3,000-square-foot “face” of the project on the right. There is no question that this project completely violates the spirit and intent of the design guidelines.

Story poles will be going up soon. I encourage residents to get a preview of what is about to happen.

THE WORLD THE WAY I SEE IT KURT SIPOLSKI, Palm Desert

When I was a little boy bedridden from polio, my parents did everything they could to lift my spirits while other little boys were outside playing.

They flashed on the idea of foreign coin collecting. My stepfather gathered his European coins from WWII. My grandfather, who was a Colonel, in WWI sent his. Relatives and neighbors gave me theirs, scavenged from some corner of a drawer.

Soon I had rubles from Russia, a coin from Zanzibar (Where was that? I searched my globe) and paper pesos from Japan (Japan had pesos?) and hundreds of others.

It was a hobby that became my life. Many years later, and free from the constrictions of leg braces, I set out to see the world from whence those coins came. I collected other things along the route—a pale white bowl from the Sung dynasty, a blue one from the Ming dynasty, an old icon from Kiev, a few things from my years in Australia and a carved whale tooth from Alaska.

Everything is sold now or for sale, as I try to recoup my monies lost with Dan Harkey of Dana Point—husband of Assemblywoman Diane Harkey, who is running for the Board of Equalization—and his trust deed company, Point

Center Financial of Aliso Viejo. The $40 million suit is for fraud, financial elder abuse and running a Ponzi scheme.

As politicians banter about less regulation needed in business, I blanch at the devastating prospects of just such a move.

Recently I heard Diana Henriques, author of The Wizard of Lies: Bernie Madoff and the Death of Trust speak in Rancho Mirage.

She also bemoaned the fact that there is such talk, and warned of many more Ponzi schemes out there since savings account interest is so low.

“Even a 2 percent return from a shady firm will seem attractive,” she warned.

I am embroiled in litigation, delays and costly maneuvers because Point Center Financial declared bankruptcy.

Recently, Dan Harkey wrote me a letter accusing me of “sleazy tactics” for contacting newspapers about the litigation.

I would think he would love his day in court to prove his innocence, but it has been delayed year after year after year.

I wonder why there is talk of colonizing the moon when there are so many problems right here on our earth. The earth I was so fortunate to have seen while I could.

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.

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

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MIXOLOGIST COMPETITION 3 p.m. The Chamber’s annual drink event at Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn. $20-$25. 2600 Ave. Del Presidente, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

COOKING CLASS: SPRING INTO VEGGIES 6:30 p.m.

Organic, gluten-free cooking class at Antoine’s Café. $65 for recipes, health tips, dinner and wine. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

JANN BROWNE AND BEER CHUGGING CONTEST 7:30 p.m. Live music starts and at 9 p.m. the beer contest begins, at The Swallows Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

FARM TO FORK: ADULTS 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Explore The Ecology Center gardens and prepare a meal alongside a professional chef. $35-$45. Ages 18+. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.4223, TheEcologyCenter.org.

friday

FISH FRY FRIDAY DINNER 4:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Our Lady of Fatima Church San Clemente’s Fish Dinner in McGowan Hall.

Tickets $5-$12. Wine and beer also available. 105 N. La Esperanza, San Clemente, 949.492.4101, www.olfchurch.net.

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HOOS GOW DAY 9 a.m.-4 p.m. A San Juan tradition with the “sheriff” and “deputies” of the Fiesta Association roaming the town in search of city slickers. If you’re not wearing western wear, watch out. Info: www.swallowsparade.com.

17TH ANNUAL TASTE OF DANA 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. More than 20 local Dana Point restaurants offer “tastes” of their food, also featuring music, auctions, raffles and more fun at Dana Hills High School. Tickets $15-$20. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, www.dhgradnite.com.

HART AND SOUL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. The group performs live at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.

San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

AT THE MOVIES: ‘STOKER’ IS A SHOCKER Spring is just around the corner and while there are fantasy family flicks and slapstick comedies on screens, Fox Searchlight brings something with a different style titled Stoker. Already gaining comparisons to Hitchcock’s Shadow of a Doubt before it’s release due to a number of similarities, including a character named Uncle Charlie who appears in a young girl’s life just when a group of disappearances occur. This time, Stoker takes the famous theme to a higher level of disturbance. When the father (Dermot Mulroney) of the Stoker family dies in a tragic car accident, the daughter India (Mia Wasikowksa) becomes a recluse and distant from her flamboyant mother (Nicole Kidman). The day of the funeral, an uncle India had never met before named Charlie (Matthew © Fox Searchlight Goode) arrives to spend some time with his niece and sister-in-law. But the more time she spends around Uncle Charlie, the more dysfunctional her family appears to be and bizarre incidents begin happening in town. Directed by Oldboy’s Park Chan-wook and written by Wentworth Miller of Prison Break comes one of the most uniquely crafted films of 2013 thus far. With two subtle, but unnerving performances by Wasikowska and Goode, and two powerhouses backing them up (Kidman and Jacki Weaver) under Park’s creepy direction, Stoker makes the viewers shiver and squirm and hope that our relatives do not have secret lives. —Megan Bianco

GEORGE FRYER 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Live music during wine tasting at DaVine Food & Wine (wine tasting starts at 4 p.m.). Tasting fee $15 for five wines. 34673 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.493.4044, www.davine-wine.com.

COMMUNITY RECYCLING EVENT 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Recycle your plastic bottles and aluminum at Dana Hills High School to help local students. 33333 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6666, www.dhhs.net.

DIRTY DEEDS AT THE DEPOT 8 p.m. Play at Camino Real Playhouse set in 1895 during the glory days of San Juan Capistrano. Tickets $24; runs through March 23. 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.8082, www.caminorealplayhouse.org.

SATURDAY’S AT THE SWALLOW’S 1 p.m.-close. Special live music events all day at Swallow’s Inn for the Swallows Parade featuring Family Style and Pale Riders. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

B.R. COHN WINERY TASTING 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Wine tasting at SC Wine Company. Enjoy seven tastes for $20; includes complimentary cheese plate and chocolate.

212 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com

DANMAN’S KIDS CONCERT 2 p.m. Students and teachers perform at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

DOO WAH RIDERS 8:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallows Inn. Before that, catch Jann Browne starting at 2 p.m. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

THE BRIAN YOUNG BAND 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Music at Iva Lee’s with guest Lynwood Slim. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

GROOVE LOUNGE 10 p.m. Live DJ and dancing at OC Tavern. No cover. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

saturday

SWALLOWS DAY PARADE 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The 55th annual Swallows Day Parade and Mercado Street Faire downtown San Juan Capistrano featuring fun for the family, the nation’s largest non-motorized parade and more to celebrate the legend of the return of the swallows to the Mission. Hosted by the Fiesta Association; more details online: www.swallowsparade.com.

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SOUL FOOD 10:30 a.m. Monthly music and faith program at The Baha’i Center with the theme this month of “A Sense of Time.” 3316 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.433.9555, www.soulfoodOC.com.

WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD 9 a.m.

Dockside presentation and art lesson via video with Wyland at Dana Wharf, followed by whale watching at 10 a.m. Cost $25-$45. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

Page 14

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

THE MAVERICKS 8 p.m. Concert at The Coach House.

Tickets $50. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

FLAVORS OF SJC FOOD TOUR 10:45a.m.-2:30p.m.

Walking historical and food tasting tour of San Juan Capistrano. Cost $55. www.flavorsofsanjuancapistrano.com.

sunday

TAKE ONLY PHOTOS HIKE AND WORKSHOP 8 a.m.11:30 a.m. Hike with a professional photographer for this active photography workshop at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Bring your camera! Call for info, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

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PALM SUNDAY SERVICE 9 a.m.; 10:45 a.m.; 12:45 p.m.

Special services at San Clemente Presbyterian Church start today and continue through Easter Sunday. 119 N. Avenida de la Estrella, San Clemente, 949.492.6158, www. scpres.org.

SPRING DETOX WORKSHOP 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Join OceanaFit for a spring cleaning-inspired flow and detox workshop. 929 Calle Negocio, Ste C, San Clemente, 949.388.6700.

LOVERS QUARREL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

(Cont. on page 19) www.sanclementetimes.com

GETTING OUT (Cont. from page 14) WINE AND MUSIC CRUISE 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Dana Wharf’s cruise on a luxury catamaran with wine, snacks, music and more. Tickets $49. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

SOCSA’S 10TH ANNUAL OPERA CELEBRATION GALA 5:30 p.m. “Notte di Festa” The South Orange County School of the Arts Foundation’s opera night gala at Soka Performing Arts Center featuring an opening reception and the performance at 7 p.m. $35-$75. 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo, 949.307.2909, www.socsaoperanight.org.

MARINE MAMMAL EXPLORATION CRUISE 1 p.m.

The Ocean Institute’s cruise on its 70-foot R/V Sea Explorer to observe whales, dolphins and more wildlife. Cost $22-$35. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.

TOMATO WORKSHOP 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Steve Goto will talk about organic growing techniques, insect and disease control and more at Plant Depot. 32413 San Juan Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.240.2107 www.plantdepot.com.

monday

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COUNTRY DANCIN’ WITH PATRICK AND FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Every Monday at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

COMEDY AND KARAOKE 9 p.m.-1 a.m. The night starts with live comedy and continues with karaoke at 11 p.m. at Hennessey’s Tavern. No cover. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

tuesday

THE PLAYFUL PRACTICE 6 p.m. A free family yoga session at the north side of the San Clemente pier. Wear purple, bring a towel, and help spread awareness. Suitable for ages 3 and up. More info: 760.889.3829, www. facebook.com/theplayfulpractice, www.purpleday.org.

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OPERA NIGHT! 7 p.m. Casa Romantica features the students of the South Orange County School of the Arts performing opera. $20. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

ARCHAEOLOGY LECTURE 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Professor Patrick Scott Geyer visits the San Juan Capistrano Library to discuss his ongoing research of ancient Jerusalem. Free. 31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1752, www.ocpl.org.

CLASSIC FILM SERIES: CASABLANCA 6:30 p.m.9 p.m. St. Margaret’s Episcopal School presents a showing of the film in the Marcus D. Hurlbut Theater, with a pre-film discussion. $16.25. 31641 La Novia San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108, www.smes.org.

wednesday

MICROBREWS BY THE MISSION 4 p.m.-8 p.m. A 14-venue “pub crawl” featuring seasonal craft brews for $4, live music, food/ appetizers and more in downtown San Juan Capistrano the last Wednesday of the month. 949.493.4700, www.facebook.com/microbrewsbythemission.

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MIXOLOGY LESSON 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Expert mixologist Jaren teaches guests how to make hand-crafted cocktails in the Lobby Lounge at The St. Regis Monarch Beach. Cost $25, also includes live music, food tasting and more. Reservations: 800.722.1543. 1 Monarch Beach Resort, Dana Point, 949.234.3200, www.stregismb.com.

THE ELI CHAPMAN BAND 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.

WILDFLOWERS FROM A TO Z LECTURE 7 p.m.8:30 p.m. The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy feature biologist Tony Bomkamp presenting interesting facts on wildflowers at the Avendale Village Clubhouse (Ladera Ranch). Free admission. Call for info and directions, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

BOOK SIGNING 6:30 p.m. Join author Anita Hughes in the St. Margaret’s Library as she reads from her newest book Market Street and talks about her writing journey.

31641 La Novia, San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.0108 x 217.

UPCOMING: THURSDAY, MARCH 28 TOMORROW’S ARTISTS OF TODAY OPENING 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Casa Romantica debuts the student art exhibit titled Tomorrow’s Artists Today in a special evening event featuring an awards ceremony, refreshments and more. Free admission; donations accepted. On display through April 18. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at 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

COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER

News and updates on San Clemente’s business community Brittany Simmons says her recent purchase of Del Mar Beauty Supply is a natural move for her. Simmons has been working in the beauty business for the past six years, including working at a salon next door to Del Mar Beauty.

“It was the right opportunity,” Simmons said. “I already had relationships with all of the sales representatives.”

Simmons said she would be keeping the current staff in place at the store, but would be bringing in some new lines and phasing out some the current offerings.

“We’re going to try and make it more exclusive,” Simmons said.

NOW OPEN u Brawner Boards, 220 Avenida Vaquero, 949.429.9601, www.brawnerboards.com Damian Brawner says the time has come for his family to have their name be as much a part of Southern California surf culture as the family has been since the late 1950s.

Brawner, who had been building surfboards at Hobie since the ‘80s, followed his father, Danny, who’d also built boards at Hobie. Both are also active drummers (as are Damian’s grandfather and his son Haze), which helped lead to Brawner opening his new storefront.

“The owner of this shopping center is one of my drum students,” Brawner said. “I was looking for office space to run my concert promotion business, I thought, ‘Why don’t we throw some boards in there and build our own brand?’ We’ve been making boards for other people for years.”

Brawner said the shop will also serve as a spot for lessons and rentals, as well as surf and stand-up paddleboard restoration and repair. The store will be open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Brawner said he’s considering later hours in the summer as well. Brawner is also thinking about hosting parking lot parties in the summer with bands, classic cars and raffles.

“I want to try and stir up the neighborhood and have fun,” Brawner said. “I want to encourage people to come talk. I want people leaving going, ‘That was killer, that’s what California’s about.’”

As part of the celebration of the opening of the shop, Brawner is offering a free SUP lesson with the purchase of a board. u Leslie’s Swimming Pool Supplies, 85 Via Pico Plaza, 949.492.8482, www.lesliespools.com National pool care store Leslie’s Swimming Pool Supplies has opened a location in San Clemente’s Pico Plaza. The company

San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

GIVING BACK

Damian Brawner will be offering surf and stand-up paddleboards, for rent and for sale, as well as surf wear at his new storefront on Avenida Vaquero. Photo by Jim Shilander

“We try to place our stores where the pools owners are and see an opportunity with this new area,” Clements wrote. “We want to better support the loyal customer base of pool owners in Orange County and felt that an additional store would enhance the customer experience.”

The new store has three employees and will staff up as needed to meet seasonal demand, Clements said. Services offered instore include water tests and labor, as well as home installation and repair services. The store will be celebrating honor its 50th Anniversary on April 15-28.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

San Clemente resident Stephanie McCormick, is the CEO of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Orange County and the Inland Empire. She was recently named as one of “20 Women to Watch” by OC Metro Magazine. Courtesy photo

NEW OWNERSHIP

is expanding operations across the country and saw an opportunity in south Orange County, Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning Lyndsay Clements said in an email.

u Del Mar Beauty, 150 Avenida Del Mar, Suite B, 949.492.8180, www.delmarbeauty. com

Page 21

u The Playful Practice, 1502 North El Camino Real, 760.889.3829, playfulpractice. wordpress.com Amber Stanco of The Playful Practice yoga studio first got into teaching yoga for children two years ago. When her daughter was diagnosed with epilepsy at the same time, she discovered that doing yoga was a big help to her. This year, Stanco said she will be trying to provide assistance to other children and raise awareness of seizure disorders by hosting a free family yoga event March 26 at the San Clemente Pier in honor of Purple Day, an international day that raises awareness of epilepsy and other disorders.

“I thought using Purple Day to spread epilepsy awareness by sharing yoga practice was perfect,” Stanco said in an email. “This is my first event so I have no idea what to expect from the turn out, but I’m already excited about doing more. “ Those attending are encouraged to wear purple and bring a towel. The class in considered suitable for ages 3 and up, Stanco noted. For more information call 760-8893829 or visit www.facebook.com/theplayfulpractice. SC

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING

What If? San Clemente student provides insight into Holocaust through writing

By Elysia Gamo San Clemente Times

A

young San Clemente writer shined at the 14th annual Holocaust Art and Writing Competition for her powerful story of a survivor’s nightmare.

On March 8, seventh grader Peyton Ehmke placed second for her essay titled, “A Yellow Stripe of Courage,” inspired by holocaust survivor Renee Firestone.

The contest was held at the Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education at Chapman University. She represented her school, Our Lady of Fatima Parish School (OLF), competing against more than 5,000 middle and high school students internationally.

The theme of this year’s competition was “The Courage to Create: Message to the Future,” which challenged students to utilize survivor testimony to create a unique work, such as an essay, art piece or poem.

Ehmke competed in the prose essay division because she said writing is her strongest suit.

After browsing through videos of Holocaust survivor testimonies, she found

Our Lady of Fatima student Peyton Ehmke placed second in a international essay contest that asked writers to use Holocaust survivor testimony to make the horrors they experienced accessible. Ehmke stands with her mother, Claudine Schulte. Photo by Elysia Gamo

Renee Firestone’s heavy accent intriguing and knew her story would be a good fit.

In her essay, Ehmke carefully created a mirror image of the horrors Firestone lived through, and asked readers to reflect on two simple words—“what” and “if.”

“Those two words, side-by-side, can make the greatest optimist question: What if? What if? What if you could put an end to anti–Semitism? If not for someone you

know, for Mrs. Firestone, for all she asked is that we remember,” Ehmke wrote in the essay.

The judges remembered those words and granted her a top five spot in the contest.

“She took a great deal of time moving words around and ensuring that it was the best submission possible,” said Claudine Schulte, Ehmke’s mother.

After revising the essay numerous times with teacher Daniela Kelly, it was time to send in her masterpiece. Ehmke’s goal was to reach the finals, but she never expected to take home a top prize in the competition.

Anxiously waiting in her seat, she was shocked and surprised when the announcer said, “Peyton Ehmke for second place.”

“I wasn’t as surprised because I had complete faith and confidence in her writing,” said Kelly. “I thought it was a beautifully crafted essay that should have won the first prize, but we’re very happy with second.”

For her award-winning essay, Ehmke received $250 and an edition of The Holocaust Chronicle: A History in Words and Pictures.

This is the first time a student from OLF has taken home a top prize in the competition. Kelly noted there was no jealousy when Ehmke won because the parish community supports each other like family. The tight-knit community showed their support by recognizing her at a recent school assembly.

Ehmke said she didn’t know she was capable of achieving so much at her age, and she noted that she could not have done it without Kelly’s guidance and support from her classmates.

This may be the highlight of her educational career, but the young writer’s journey is nowhere near complete. Ehmke said she is ready to take another shot at bringing home first place honors in next year’s contest. SC

GUEST OPINION: Life’s a Beach by Shelley Murphy

March Roars in With Spring Happenings, Busy Schedules Sleep deprivation a problem due to longer days, Daylight Savings Time

M

arch not only roars in like a lion, the month shoulders the lion’s share of springtime events, including the switch to Daylight Saving Time (DST), the arrival of the vernal equinox and the onset of spring break.

Setting the clocks forward to DST only sacrifices 60 minutes of sleep, but studies show skipping that hour of slumber takes a toll on the body’s internal clock and causes serious side effects.

Researchers refer to the week after the spring time change as one of the most dangerous of the year, with a significant rise in traffic accidents and fatalities, heart attacks and suicides—and the bulk of the blame goes to sleep deprivation and fatigue.

Ideally, adults should average seven to nine hours of sleep a night. I know this to be true because sleep deprivation is a hot topic in our household these days.

Our older son, midway through his fraternity initiation (a politically correct term for hazing), operates on an average of four hours of shut-eye a night due to his constant cleaning and nonstop scrubbing San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

of a frat house that he’s not earned the right to walk through the front door of yet. It concerns me to hear him on the phone in a zombie-like state; but he insists, “I’m fine.”

Actually, it upsets me LIFE’S A BEACH

By Shelley Murphy even more to think about all the years I spent scrubbing grimy toilets and washing dirty dishes completely oblivious to his hidden janitorial skills.

We can blame Benjamin Franklin, the same man who said, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise,” for our loss of sleep.

Back in 1784, Franklin suggested the idea of daylight saving but it took a while to catch on, and today, the enlightened states of Hawaii and Arizona still pass on his plan.

Studies say it takes most of us about a week to sweep the sleep from our eyes, clear the cobwebs and adapt to darker mornings and lighter evenings.

Still, I’m happy to trade my 60 minutes

of sleep for an extra hour of daylight, especially since it ensures the digital clock hanging high above my bathroom mirror displays the correct time until November 3.

Yesterday, at precisely 4:02 a.m. (PDT), the sun crossed the celestial equator marking the moment of the March equinox. At that same time, we welcomed the start of the spring season and the longer, warmer days ahead.

The official onset of spring prompts us to say goodbye to Girl Scout cookies and glasses of green beer and hello to the Swallows’ Day Parade and spring break.

This year, for the first time, our two boys have different weeks off of school for their spring breaks. They also have very different vacation plans.

My oldest wants to hit the beach, but not for the clubs, concerts and contests. He’s taking a break from college life and seeking a solitary spot on the sand to sleep—or so I’m told.

My youngest, recently bitten by the college bug, can’t wait to visit college campuses. It’s déjà vu all over again: We’ll spend the week sitting in college lecture

Page 22

halls listening to administrators warn prospective students and parents that the chances of being admitted to their prestigious colleges are about the same as winning the lottery—which seems ironic since that’s about the only way to pay the exorbitant tuitions.

Despite their separate spring break schedules, I look forward to spending some quality time together with each son – especially my oldest, before he heads back to his halls of higher education.

After all, it’s spring and my oven’s overdue for its annual scrubbing and the floors need some scouring, too.

Shelley Murphy has lived in San Clemente with her husband and two sons for the past 14 years. She’s a freelance writer and contributor to the SC Times since 2006. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared.

The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

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GARAGE SALES FAMILY ESTATE SALE MAR 20-22 SAN CLEMENTE Wed & Thurs 9 am - 3 pm, Fri 9 am - 1 pm. Collectibles, knicknacks, limoges, cut glass, pottery, furniture, clothes, jewelry and more. 204 Cerrito Cielo

OTHER INTERESTING STUFF UNITY OF ALISO VIEJO PRESENTS EMERGING WOMEN OF THE 21ST CENTURY A Spiritual Retreat of Renewal for the Spirit, Mind, and Body Designed for Women. When: April 19 -20, 2013. Where: Dana Marina Inn, 24800 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA 92629. Presenters and Workshops: Keynote Speaker: Rev. Dr. Peggy Price: “The Undefended Heart” Living authentically finding your own voice and hearing the other. Caroll Michel Schwartz, Certified True Purpose Coach “Discover Your Divine Purpose” Sylvia Lane, Ph.D., “Change Your Feelings Change Your Life” Colleen Blackford, Certified Yoga Instructor - Yoga Workshop: “Restore and Renew” Music by: Denise Rosier, accomplished soloist & guitarist.For info and RSVP visit: www.unityofalisoviejo.org or Runitystar@aol.com; 949-472-9230 San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

OBITUARY

Michael W. Katzmark, USMC MGSGT Retired September 7, 1920 – March 16, 2013 Loving Husband of Marilyn Katzmark, Father to Miki Kazmarek, Carole Palese, Kandy Katzmark, Mike Katzmark, Laura Griffith and Mike Hauck, Grandfather of Tonya, Amber, Geoff, Niki, Trina, Melanie, Tiffany, Teresa, Mike, Kela, Kawika and Great Grandfather of 12 beautiful children.

As a Career Marine, he enlisted in 1941 and served in World War II, the Korean Conflict, and finally in the Vietnam War (2 tours of duty) He was awarded the Bronze Page 25

Star while serving in Vietnam.

After a 26 year career he retired from military service and entered into the his own Dump Truck and Excavation Business in San Clemente., Mark Trucking.

Michael resided in San Clemente since 1956.

Michael’s love of motors, engines and fast cars allowed him to spend many years off road racing in Baja with the Scalzo Brothers and also in South Africa.

Funeral services will be held at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church on Saturday March 23 at 11 am with the reception following in the Parish Hall. A full military Burial will be celebrated at a future date at Arlington National Cemetery. www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SC S a n C le m e n te

CITY COUNCIL PARTNERS WITH SC AQUATICS

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

On March 19 the San Clemente City Council agreed to provide San Clemente Aquatics with a discounted rate for use of the pools at the Vista Hermosa Aquatic Center, but not to the level the team hoped.

The city had proposed offering the use of the pool at a 70 percent discount per lane, as well as reducing costs for the use of the meeting room and event space.

The city also offered an 80 percent discount for meets in the “off-peak” season, and 50 percent for peak time in the summer. The team had requested a deeper discount on lane rental ($5 per

Home Field Advantage

SC Aquatics swimmer Lauren Amigleo, 13, is one of the many swimmers who calls the Vista Hermosa Aquatics Center home. Courtesy photo

hour as opposed to the city’s $7.50), as well as more of a discount for the summer meet.

Head coach Keith Kennedy said that due to the council’s decision, the organization would have to reconsider holding future meets at the aquatics center.

“We can’t take a loss on that (the meet),” Kennedy said.

The organization, Kennedy explained, was already operating at a loss at the 70 percent discounted use of lanes.

That meant the organization would either have to rent less space (difficult since the organization has more than doubled its numbers of participants in the last year), shrink its staff, or do fundraisers. —Jim Shilander

SCOR E BOAR D

For the San Clemente High baseball team, an unusual left field has become a secret weapon

SC BOYS NJB ADVANCES TO NATIONALS The boys San Clemente National Junior Basketball All-Star team is undefeated on the season and recently won both the South Orange County area Tournament (March 9 to March 10) and the Southern California Orange County Sectional Tournament (March 16 to March 17). The team is made up of local The San Clemente NJB All-Stars will play in the National NJB fourth graders.

Tournament. Courtesy photo The team will now travel to the National NJB All-Star Tournament to be played from April 5 to April 7.

The team consists of: Ryan Goddard, Sammy VanDixhorn, Foster McCarty, Neal Keenan, Brennan Kelley, William Pinkermann, Jack Carroll, Jack Whidden, Jackson Barker and DeMarco Tanamachi. They are coached by Dave Barker and Brian Kelley.

We want to run your scores, results and announcements in “Scoreboard.”

E-mail sports@sanclementetimes.com, fax 949.388.9977, mail or drop off the information to us at 34932 Calle del Sol, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 by each Monday at 5 p.m.

San Clemente senior Shane Elias-Calles patrols the bizarre left field on campus. Photo by Steve Breazeale

By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times

I

n southland high school baseball, there is perhaps nothing that compares to the ballpark oddity that is the left field at Sisca Field, home of the San Clemente Tritons.

It’s big, it’s green and it’s a handful to deal with.

The obstacle starts about 250 feet from home plate, where the green grass of the outfield suddenly races steeply uphill for about 15 feet. At the top of the hill, things keep getting bigger, as the left field fence stretches up for another 20 feet or so to the top of the adjacent football stands of Thalassa Stadium 300 feet away. In all, the hill and the fence push close to the 40-foot mark above ground level at home plate.

The task of handling this “mini Green Monster” has fallen to senior left fielder Shane Elias-Calles.

San Clemente Times March 21-27, 2013

Elias-Calles has seen it all patrolling the quirky left field, from fly balls that hit the fence and bounce straight back to him, to balls that just sit at the top of the hill and refuse to move an inch, requiring a quick and speedy sprint up the steep incline.

After four years of playing on the field, he’s now accustomed to watching opposing players struggle with the ballpark dimensions while he plays it like a crafty veteran.

“It’s definitely a challenge…you have to take wide steps to work your way up the hill,” Elias-Calles said. “Some guys, instead of turning around and running up the hill they try and backpedal up it and they just fall straight on their back.”

There’s not much that can prepare an opposing team’s left fielder for the challenge of judging fly balls and line drives that make their way out to the hill. The way that Elias-Calles and senior center fielder Dan Caresio manage to do it has taken four years of trial and error.

Caresio, who has played alongside EliasCalles since the two were freshman, helps his teammate judge where the ball will ultimately end up. They work from the top of the hill on down, so Elias-Calles makes it a point to race up the hill before the ball gets to him, and then come down to catch the ball. It’s a trick Elias-Calles says he’s learned from alumni.

If Caresio thinks a fly ball will stay up on top of the hill, he tells Elias-Calles to stay up. He says the opposite if the ball looks like it might roll down. It seems fairly simple, until the play happens at game speed.

“A lot of teams don’t know how to play the hill. We’re the only team that does,” Caresio said.

Because the hill is only 250 feet away from home plate, a lot of balls that get over Elias-Calles’ head look like automatic doubles, when in fact, the ball is much closer than the base runner thinks. Elias-Calles

Page 26

and Caresio both touched on the fact that they have an advantage, as fielders, and can throw out a runner more often than not when they try and stretch their hit into extra bases.

“A lot of doubles go to die out there,” head coach Dave Gellatly said.

Gellatly, who played high school baseball at San Clemente, has seen the hill decide the outcome of dozens of games in favor of the Tritons. He continually sees opposing teams come in with a game plan to lift fly balls out to left and hope one carries, only to find it fall short due to either the fence, the hill or the wind, which whips across the field from off the ocean. “(The hill) has been a topic of conversation for as long as I’ve been here,” Gellatly said. “You have opponents who come in who have never seen it before and say ‘Wow, what do you do with that hill?’ and I say ‘Good luck with the next seven innings trying to figure it out’.” SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Triton Report

By Steve Breazeale

BOYS TENNIS • The injury bug bit the San Clemente boys tennis team recently, causing them to drop out of the CIF-SS coaches poll top-10 for the first time all year.

Freshman Jay Yeam, the team’s No. 2 singles player, recently suffered an undisclosed injury that has kept him sidelined, landing a blow to the Tritons (5-2) depth charts.

Despite the injuries the Tritons defeated Tesoro 17-1 on March 19 in their South Coast League opener. Tesoro attempted to load up their top players in the doubles format, but the Tritons were up to the task.

“It made for great doubles sets, but we were able to overcome that move and then our singles players dominated,” head coach John Stephens said.

Next Match: 3/26 at Capistrano Valley, 3 p.m.

TRACK AND FIELD • The Tritons played host for the first time this season at the Triton Invitational on March 16. At the end of the day it was Kyleigh Brown who seemed to benefit from the home cooking, as she was a part of a first-place 4 x 100-meter relay team, a second place 4 x 400-meter relay team and won the 400-meter run outright.

Tanaz Nourian, Ally Lynn and Brittney Thornton were all part of the first-place 4 x 100-meter relay team. Jessica Erickson, Thornton and Maddison Huffman, along with Brown, were part of the second place 4 x 400-meter relay team.

Erickson finished fourth in the 800-meter and Melissa Eisele finished fourth in the 3200-meter.

Boys results were not available at press time.

DARNOLD EARNS MVP HONORS, MULTIPLE TRITONS NAMED TO ALL-LEAGUE TEAM • Every member of the San Clemente boys basketball starting five was named to the all-Sea View league team as part of the league’s recently announced post-season honors.

Sophomore Sam Darnold had about as big of a breakout year a player could have.

For his efforts, Darnold was named the Sea View League MVP. Through 24 games played, Darnold averaged 12.5 points, 2.3 assists and four rebounds per game. Darnold also excelled on the defensive side of the floor.

Seniors Jimmy Bankson and Cody Bean were awarded first team all-league honors.

Bankson led the team in scoring, averaging 13.9 points per game, and had a memorable 30-point game against Capistrano Valley in the first round of the San Clemente Times March 21-27, 2013

Junior Nic Valko and the San Clemente boys tennis team defeated Tesoro 17-1 on March 19. Photo by Steve Breazeale

playoffs.

Bean, who could score points but prided himself on his facilitating efforts, paced the team in the assist category, averaging 5.1 per game. Bean averaged 12.9 points per game, grabbed an average of six rebounds per game and averaged just over three steals per contest (3.3).

Seniors Brock Eissman and Jake Terkoski were named second team all-league.

Eissman and Terkoski, who led the team in rebounding, both averaged just over 10 points per game while contributing valuable minutes as part of the Tritons starting five. “(The all-league selections) shows how this really was a true team, that any five of those guys could carry us when we needed them. I’m really happy that they all got recognized. They deserve it,” head coach Marc Popovich said.

BOYS LACROSSE ON A ROLL • The San Clemente boys lacrosse team improved to 5-1 on the season with successive routs in their last three games.

First, the Tritons defeated El Toro, 18-5, on March 14 then followed that up with a convincing 19-5 win over Capistrano Valley.

On March 19, the Tritons went to Great Oak and won 20-5. Sophomore Jack Renard (five goals, three assists), senior Robbie Burns (six goals, two assists) and junior Peyton Garrett (four goals, two assists) paced the offense, while middie Austin Streeter won the battle of face-offs and added one goal and two assists of his own.

Defenseman Syd Reynolds scored a goal while Stone Sims had an assist to go with a team-high eight ground balls.

Goalie Thomas Ahola had 12 saves in the contest.

On March 21 San Clemente plays host to Tesoro at 5:30 p.m. From there, they will travel to play No. 1 ranked Corona del Mar on March 23 at 2 p.m.

Next Game: 3/21 vs. Tesoro, 5:30 p.m.

BOYS GOLF • The two-man scramble team of Sammy Schwartz and Shane Barriera finished third overall at the Aliso Niguel Wolverine Invitational on March 18 after firing a 64 (-8) in the two-man format.

As a team, the Tritons finished second overall with a modified score of 203.

The Tritons (4-3, 1-0) then opened up Sea View League play with a 203-228 win over visiting Laguna Hills on March 19 at Bella Collina.

Next Match: 3/21 at Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, 3 p.m.

BOYS AND GIRLS SWIMMING • The boys and girls swim teams were set to open league play with a dual meet against Mission Viejo on March 19. Results were not available at press time.

Next Meet: 3/26 vs. Trabuco Hills, 3:15 p.m.

BOYS VOLLEYBALL CLAIMS OC CHAMPIONSHIPS • The San Clemente boys volleyball team added another trophy to their growing list of hardware this season by claiming the OC Championships on March 18 with a 3-1 win over Huntington Beach in the finals.

It was the second major tournament the Tritons have won this season, the first being the Best of the West Tournament in Poway.

The Tritons (15-0) dropped only one game all weekend, in the finals to Huntington Beach, and defeated some top talent

Page 28

along the way. The Tritons swept Foothill, Edison and Mater Dei en route to the finals.

Senior Lucas Yoder was named the tournament MVP while Jack Yoder and AJ Hammer were named to the all-tournament team.

The Tritons were then pushed by visiting Fountain Valley in a non-league match on March 19, but did not falter, winning in three straight sets to claim their 15th victory in a row.

After battling back and forth in a competitive first set, the Tritons eventually won in extras, 28-26. They would go on to win the second, 25-20, and the third, 25-16.

Fountain Valley came out swinging against the Tritons and were led by opposite Scott Cronick, who had five kills in the first set. Fountain Valley had a chance to close it out at 24-22, but the Tritons rallied behind senior outside hitters Hammer and Yoder, who each recorded two kills down the stretch.

Although they showed some signs of fatigue, the Tritons cruised to win the next two sets.

“Winning (the O.C Championships) and Best of the West (tournament) really takes a lot out of you mentally,” Goldstone said. “I don’t think we played our hardest (against Fountain Valley). It probably had to do with playing (March 18)…We just need a good night’s sleep and a little rest off our legs and it will be ok.”

Next Game: 3/21 vs. San Juan Hills, 6:15 p.m.

SOFTBALL • The San Clemente softball three-game winning streak was brought to a halt on March 16, as they lost to Santa Margarita 5-4 in a non-league matchup.

The Tritons (3-7) then lost to Trabuco Hills 8-4 on March 19.

The Tritons will open league play against Tesoro on March 26.

Next game: 3/21 at Fountain Valley, 4:30 p.m.

GIRLS LACROSSE • The Tritons were hoping a March 14 league match against El Toro would help them get on track, but instead San Clemente was bested 19-9 by the Chargers.

The Tritons (1-5) were set to play Rosary on March 19. Results were not available at press time.

Next Game: 3/21 at Tesoro, 5:30 p.m.

BASEBALL • The San Clemente baseball team claimed the Paramount Tournament title after defeating Long Beach Poly 5-3 on March 16. The Tritons scored four runs in the first inning and didn’t look back.

San Clemente (7-3, 0-1) dropped their first league game to Laguna Hills 3-0 on March 15 and were set to resume league play on March 20 against San Juan Hills.

Results were not available at press time.

Visit www.sanclementetimes.com for a full game re-cap.

Next Game: 3/26 vs. Dana Hills, 3:30 p.m. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SURF

6

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

GROM OF THE WEEK Alexxa Elseewi Age: 12, Connections Academy

Alexxa Elseewi of San Clemente is one of the busiest competitive shortboard surfers under the age of 18. Dedicated to getting as much contest experience as possible on her path toward a pro surfing career, Alexxa practices every day and competes in eight divisions across five surf series. In the WSA Championship Series she is currently the No. 4 ranked surfer in Girls U14 and No. 11 in Girls U16. In NSSA competition she is rated No. 9 in Explorer Girls, No. 11 in Photo by Kurt Steinmetz/imagesbykurtsteinmetz.com Explorer Women, No. 7 in Open Girls and No. 18 in Open Women. Although homeschooled, Alexxa surfs for the Bernice Ayer Middle School team in both the NSSA Interscholastic and SSS series. Her most recent victory came at the NSSA Interscholastic State Championships March 8-10 when she became the middle school girls state champion. In SSS she ended her season as the No. 1 surfer among Orange County middle school girls. Her goals for the remainder of the season include making the finals at the last two WSA regular season events, finishing strong at the WSA West Coast Championships and NSSA Nationals and to earn an invitation into the Surfing America Prime series. Alexxa is an ‘A’ and ‘B’ student whose favorite subject is math and her other interests include skateboarding, drawing and photography. Surfing, however, is her favorite. “Surfing is definitely my true passion and I just love the feeling of being on a board riding waves,” Alexxa said. “It just makes me feel happy. It’s hard to explain; I just love it.” —Andrea Swayne

Primed and Ready

RESULTS Surfing America Prime, Event No. 6, March 16-17, Huntington Beach Pier

Surfing America Prime series competitors complete last regular season event, prepare for USA Championships, team announcements

By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

T

he talent-stacked group of Surfing America Prime competitors gathered in Huntington Beach, March 16 and 17 to finish out the regular season with a last push for season titles. Top results could also mean qualifying for the upcoming USA Championships and the prospect of being chosen to represent the country as members of the PacSun USA travel team.

A combo swell with peaky 3- to 4-foot surf stuck around all weekend as tight battles for season titles played out on the mostly glassy waves on the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier.

“The level of surfing was rivaling that of a WQS ASP event. We had some first-time winners and our PacSun Junior Surf Team members shined as expected,” said Ryan Simmons, PacSun USA Surf Team coach.

Six local surfers (L to R) Lulu Erkeneff of Dana Point and from San Clemente, Malia Osterkamp, Tia Blanco, Colt Ward, Kevin Schulz and Kei Kobayashi, took home trophies at the last of six Surfing America Prime series events, March 16-17 in Huntington Beach. Photo by Jack McDaniel

“With a few months before our USA Championships at Lowers, the athletes will have time to work on equipment and strategy and we are expecting an awesome finish to the season.”

Six local surfers took home trophies— Lulu Erkeneff of Dana Point and from San Clemente, Malia Osterkamp, Tia Blanco, Colt Ward, Kevin Schulz and Kei Kobayashi. Two were crowned season champions—Blanco in Girls U18 and Griffin Colapinto in Boys U16.

“As this was the last event of our fifth season, it was great to reflect on the first five years of the Prime Series and realize how far the bar has been raised in

junior surfing,” said Greg Cruse, Surfing America executive director. “At our first event in September of 2008, our head judge was questioning whether the Boys U14 and Girls U16 were ready to surf to ASP judging criteria. Now they not only excel in those age groups, they also do well in ASP Pro Junior events. The Prime Series was developed to take junior surfers to the next level and it’s gratifying to see the kids we developed this program for—like Kolohe Andino, Courtney Conlogue and Lakey Peterson—already surfing on the World Tour.”

Travel team announcements are expected this weekend. SC

FIVE STILL FIGHTING AT MARGARET RIVER PRO

W

ith two days of surfing in the books, five San Clemente-based surfers are waiting out a string of lay days called due to lack of surf at the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro in Western Australia, March 16-24.

By the end of Day 2, March 17, all five surfers from San Clemente were still on the hunt for the finals, three advancing into the Round of 48 and two awaiting the restart of the event to surf their first round heats.

San Clemente Times March 21–27, 2013

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

In Round 1 (Round of 96) Kolohe Andino and Patrick Gudauskas came up with first- and second-place finishes knocking out fellow U.S. mainlander Cory Arrambide and Hawaiian Mason Ho. Nathan Yeomans also won his heat with a high two-wave combined score of 16.50 (out of 20) over runner-up Nathan Hedge of Australia with a 13.63.

When competition continues, Tanner Gudauskas and Luke Davis will face Australians Bede Durbidge and Mark Occhi-

lupo in Round 1 Heat 16 and Chris Ward will meet Hawaiian Olamana Eleogram along with Australians Owen Wright and Cooper Chapman in Heat 17.

With big waves predicted to hit on March 20—in the 6-foot plus range with offshore winds—event organizers modified contest jet ski rules to allow for one jet ski per surfer in the water for the remainder of the event.

Check out the action via live webcast at www.margaretriverpro.com. SC —AS

Page 30

BOYS U18: 1.Matt Passaquindici, Huntington Beach; 2. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente; 3.

Colt Ward, San Clemente; 4. Taylor Clark, Encinitas. BOYS U18 SEASON CHAMPION: Jake Marshall, Encinitas. GIRLS U18: 1.Tia Blanco, San Clemente; 2. Lulu Erkeneff, San Clemente; 3. Kylie Loveland, Carlsbad; 4.

Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente; GIRLS U18 SEASON CHAMP: Tia Blanco, San Clemente. BOYS U16: 1. Tyler Killeen, Surfside; 2.

Nolan Rapoza, Long Beach; 3. Jake Marshall, Encinitas; 4. Kei Kobayashi, San Clemente. BOYS U16 SEASON CHAMP: Griffin Colapinto, San Clemente. GIRLS U16: 1. Kylie Loveland, Carlsbad; 2. Meah Collins, Costa Mesa; 3. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente; 4. Tia Blanco, San Clemente. GIRLS U16 SEASON CHAMP: Meah Collins Costa Mesa. BOYS U14: 1. Ryland Rubens, Pacific Beach; 2. Eithan Osborne, Ventura; 3. John Mel, Newport Beach; 4. Noah Hill, Marina Del Rey. BOYS U14 SEASON CHAMP: Eithan Osborne, Ventura.

UPCOMING EVENT March 23-24: WSA Championship Series, Event No. 8, Dana Point, Salt Creek

SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 56-58 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 6-10’ Poor-Fair Catalina: 25-30’ Good Immediate: Combo of rising south/ southwest and west/northwest swells on Thursday for waist-chest high waves, (3-3’+) at better exposures. Standout focal points see shoulder high sets. The swell mix fills in some more for Friday, setting up waist-head high range surf, (3-5’) at the better breaks.

Long Range Outlook: Blend of moderate size southwest and west/northwest swells continues into the weekend. Check out Surfline for all the details!

www.sanclementetimes.com