October 4, 2013

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VOLUME 8, ISSUE 40

‘Friends’ In Deed Local foundation finding more ways to support local organizations EYE ON SC/PAGE 5

The Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation foundation has taken on new roles and increased its presence in the community. Treasurer Jim Nielsen and board president Tom Wicks say the organization has made it a goal to “incubate” area nonprofits that benefit the city. Photo by Jim Shilander

Council Approves Formal Tribute Program

Coyotes Overcome Hurdles to Find Hockey Success

Special Insert: South County Real Estate Guide

EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

SPORTS/PAGE 21

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

EYE ON SC

1

San Juan Capistrano City Councilman Sam Allevato filed his response Monday to a recall campaign started by a group of residents upset about the councilman’s support for the city’s disputed water rates. Recall organizers, known as Residents for Honest Government, served Allevato with a notice of intent to recall during the September 17 City Council meeting. In his response, Allevato defended his voting record and support for the city’s tiered water rate structure and groundwater recovery plant, which he said gives the city “independent rate control and supply.”

After the notice is published at least once in a newspaper of general circulation, recall organizers have 120 days to gather petition signatures from 20 percent of the city’s 17,629 registered voters, or 3,525 people, to enact a special election.

LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING

SC S a n C le m e n te

DANA POINT

NEWS

NEXT DOOR WH AT ’S GOIN G O N I N OU R NE IGH BO R I N G TOWNS

With the results in from California Coastal Cleanup Day, the state’s largest one-day volunteer event, over 50,000 participants statewide gathered more than 251 tons, or 501,000 pounds, of trash and recyclables from inland waterways and beaches.

“Coastal Cleanup Day is always an incredible celebration of out coastal and aquatic environments,” said Eben Schwartz, marine debris program manager for the California Coastal Commission.

Local volunteers answered the cleanup call and took to the OC Dana Point Harbor, Doheny State Beach, Salt Creek Beach Park, San Juan Creek and Capistrano Beach Park to rid the areas of debris.

“Until you actually pick up thousands of cigarette butts, you don’t realize their impact,” said Penny Elia, site captain of the Harbor’s annual cigarette butt round-up. Volunteers even dipped below the Harbor’s surface as certified divers collected more than 1,500 pounds of trash.

SAN CLEMENTE’S TOP 5 HOTTEST TOPICS

What’s Up With...

1

…SONGS Decommissioning?

THE LATEST: Federal officials outlined the process of decommissioning the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station’s units 2 and 3 at a public meeting in Carlsbad Thursday, while local activists who had argued for the shutdown of the nuclear plant advocated for an expedited removal of spent nuclear fuel from the facility.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission officials met with the public to provide information on the process that will close the plant permanently. The commission is responsible for the regulating anything relating to the production of nuclear energy, while other aspects of the decommissioning, such as the use of Southern California Edison’s decommissioning funds, are regulated by other agencies, such as the California Public Utilities Commission.

Larry Camper, Director of the NRC’s Division of Waste Management and Environmental Protection, said the agency would rely on lessons learned from recent decommissioning efforts across the country.

WHAT’S NEXT: Camper said the next milestone in the process, a post-shutdown decommissioning activities report, is due two years after a plant permanently ceases operations. For SONGS, that would mean June 7, 2015. The utility has indicated it intends to file the report in 2014.

San Clemente resident and activist Gene Stone said a number of the groups organized in opposition to the plant have come together to form the Coalition to Decommission San Onofre.

FIND OUT MORE: For more on the meeting, visit www.sanclementetimes.com.

– Jim Shilander San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

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3

…North Beach Rooftop Bar?

THE LATEST: The appeal of the Planning Commission’s August decision denying a proposal for a rooftop restaurant and bar in North Beach went before the City Council Tuesday, leading to confrontation between two members.

The proposed restaurant was formally denied by the commission in August due to concerns about parking, noise and whether the rooftop component really fit the area, but applicant David Gutierrez opted instead to appeal to the council.

Gutierrez said he was only asking for 10 parking waivers for the site and said 93 percent of the neighbors within a 300-foot radius of the proposed restaurant, at 1509 N. El Camino Real, were commercial buildings. He also noted that only about 9 percent of the city’s restaurant seats would be outside and said it would be something different for the area in North Beach and for the city. Neighbors spoke both against and in favor of the proposal, with proponents citing a need to revitalize the area and opponents voicing concerns about the noise level.

When former mayor Jim Evert asked Associate Planner Sean Nicholas whether he might be able to distill the differences between the city’s findings and Gutierrez’s own plans, Mayor Bob Baker tried to point to what he said were answers in the staff report. The two briefly exchanged words.

WHAT’S NEXT: The council approved tabling the final decision until its November 5 meeting in order to further study the case, since some materials did not arrive in a timely manner before the hearing.

FIND OUT MORE: For more on the meeting, visit www.sanclementetimes.com -- JS

… the Tribute Program?

THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council unanimously approved moving forward with the development of a city tribute program Tuesday, which would formalize a process to publicly memorialize or pay tribute to a loved one or group with a bench, picnic table, tree or other remembrance.

Beaches, Parks and Recreation Director Sharon Heider said the city had used an informal practice of allowing families to pay tribute to loved ones but demand for benches or other amenities with ocean views had escalated to the point where a hold needed to be placed on it. By formalizing the process, the city could decide on a lifespan for such tributes.

WHAT’S NEXT: The program will now be sent to the Beaches, Parks and Recreation Commission to be formally set up by a subcommittee, which may include family members who have lost loved ones.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www. sanclementetimes.com – JS

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… the Government Shutdown?

THE LATEST: The budget impasse in Washington has led to some obvious effects locally. Non-essential employees of the Department of Defense (those not providing “crucial services that protect life, safety and property, provide essential range, training and air operations and those employees that provide necessary utility services”) have been furloughed, until further notice at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, representing 1,163 employees, according to a Marine Corps

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press release. Those employed by private corporations on base are not a part of the furlough.

WHAT’S NEXT: Area offices for Sen. Barbara Boxer have been closed. Congressman Darrell Issa’s office in Dana Point remains open on Tuesdays and Fridays.

FIND OUT MORE: For updates, visit www. sanclemetetimes.com. – JS

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… the New CUSD School?

THE LATEST: A new K-8 school in the Capistrano Unified School District could accommodate up to 1,600 students from the Rancho Mission Viejo development and would cost $29.4 million, according to a presentation given to the school board lastWednesday.

The proposed 75,850-square-foot school would be located in Planning Area 2 of Rancho Mission Viejo. The price tag for CUSD to purchase the land is estimated at $21 million. The new development debuted its first village, Sendero, in late June. At total build-out in 25 to 30 years, the community is expected to include 14,000 homes and introduce 4,500 new students. Sendero and PA2 are projected to produce 1,118 K-8 and 266 high school students.

Negotiations between the district and the Rancho Mission Viejo Company are ongoing, but the developer has agreed to maintain some joint-use facilities, including a multipurpose building, sports field and perimeter landscaping.

WHAT’S NEXT: The district will conduct a study before Planning Area 3 is built to determine the high school facility needs for the entire community.

FIND OUT MORE: To view the presentation, visit capousd.ca.schoolloop.com.

—Brian Park www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

‘Friends’ Finding Ways to Help City Organization has increased its role in supporting city programs and organizations

By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

O

ne of San Clemente’s major fundraising organizations has become an incubator of sorts.

The Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation, which supports activities throughout the city, will host one of its largest civic events and fundraisers next week, the annual Carnival Colossal.

While the event helps to provide funding for the organization, its location is something of a testament to the organization’s ability to raise funds and to provide help to others to get projects and events off the ground.

Board President Tom Wicks said, while the organization is probably known for its events, such as the Stoke-oRama surf contest, Springtacular and Holly Jolly Hoopla, the organization focuses much more on supporting city programs.

“Yes, we put on these events, but that’s not what we’re all about,” Wicks said. “We’re a support and fundraising organization for the beaches, parks and recreation programs in the city, especially where the city doesn’t have the funding or the priority. There may be things they’ve wanted to do but can’t.”

Board treasurer Jim Nielsen said the foundation has helped a number or organizations, such as the Courtney’s SandCastle Foundation, through some of their initial growing pains, before allowing them to stand on their own two feet.

“It’s a good way for them to raise money or to get there ducks in a row before they have to incur a lot of attorney’s fees or other for helping set things up,” Nielsen said.

Other organizations that have utilized the Friends for the same purpose included one seeking to build an amphitheater in Talega, the San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame, as well as one championing dog parks.

City Councilwoman Lori Donchak has seen the role of the foundation first hand, as a board member of the Courtney’s SandCastle Foundation. That group was leavened early with help from the Friends organization, through both funding and guidance, she said.

“Courtney’s SandCastle playground is a perfect example of how Friends has changed our city for good,” Donchak wrote in an email. “Early on, the Friends offered their nonprofit status to the playground so that Courtney’s could collect donations and apply for grants. If that wasn’t enough, Friends made many large cash donations to the playground itself, giving support when it was needed most. If there is such a thing as mentoring in the nonprofit world, the Friends is the role model.”

The organization’s members are also good for an encouraging word, Donchak said.

“The folks on the Friends board are pure oxygen, always upbeat, always focused on finding answers, giving 24/7 encouragement,” she said. “Their energy alone helped make Courtney’s the success it is.”

The Friend’s Foundation is not a part of the city Beaches, Parks and Recreation Department. While the foundation and city often work in concert with one another, such as in providing scholarships for city programs,

San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

Dane, Patrick and Tanner Gudauskus with the finalists from this year’s Stoke-o-Rama surf contest. The brothers partnered with the Friends of San Clemente Beaches, Parks and Recreation Foundation to breathe new life into the surf contest last year. Photo by Andrea Swayne

the foundation is a separate entity. City staff also sit on the foundation’s board of directors as non-voting members, primarily in an advisory capacity.

Beaches, Parks and Recreation Director Sharon Heider said many communities have contacted for information about starting similar organizations.

“San Clemente is kind of unique in having something like this,” Heider said. “We’re a bit of the envy within the industry.”

Heider said with the Friends, having the exclusive mission to support the city’s programs also creates a way for residents to keep their support local. That support, she said, has greatly increased in recent years, including fully supporting the Swim and Learn Program, which teaches younger children water safety, the last two summers.

“The idea came from a local girl and her father, and we needed funding to make that happen, and then when we determined we needed to transport participants to the Aquatic Center, we needed help funding that,” Heider said. “They’ve provided the opportunity for 120 kids who might not have been able to afford it to become watersafe.”

The Friends also provide funding for scholarship programs for families throughout the city to help them afford to participate in city programs.

“The families and children participate and no one knows any difference as to where the money comes from,” Heider said.

Another major change has been the partnership between the foundation, the city and the surfing Gudauskus family. The Friends had run their own surfing event, as part of the SC Open surf and skate contests, for years, before being approached by the Gudauskus family about a new partnership.

“We were working on the idea of doing a surf contest for the kids in San Clemente,” Tom Gudauskus, father of Dave, Patrick and Tanner Gudauskus, said. “They loved T Street growing up, and they love it as adults.”

Gudauskus said he and his sons initially contacted the city about putting together a contest, and the city put them in contact with the foundation, which then worked to rebrand their own event.

“The connection with the Friends was pretty seamless,” Gudauskus said. “Our boys brought energy and enthusiasm to bring a fresh concept.”

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Heider said going through the Friends actually made it easier for the city to make the event happen. It may have been difficult, she said, to give the use of a city beach for a private event, but it was made easier to allow it to be used as a fundraiser.

The Gudauskas’ support included covering the $25 entry fee for all 100 participants in the contest. The family has also worked to bring in name sponsors, such as Vans, to support the event to help raise funds for the Friends and provide prizes for all the competitors. The sponsorships also served to greatly increase the funding provided to the organization. The event last month raised $10,500, which is targeted to support scholarships for the city’s junior lifeguard program.

“We’re really happy to get to support parks and recreation in the city. You couldn’t ask for better support,” Gudauskus said.

Wicks said he is hoping to use the Stoke-o-Rama event as a guide to get similar backing and name recognition for the SC Open Skate contest.

The funds from the carnival mainly go to support one of the foundation’s year-round projects, Cyber Café, which provides education on computers, smart phones and tablets at the foundation’s offices at 910 Calle Negocio, Suite 101. More than 6,000 people have gone through the various programs of the Cyber Café. It also supports the scholarship program and to support the city’s summer beach concert series. SC Discount tickets for the Carnival, which will be held Thursday, October 11 through Sunday, October 14, are currently on sale at the foundation’s offices at 910 Calle Negocio, City Hall, the city Beaches, Parks and Recreation Department, located at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, the San Clemente Aquatic Center at 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa and the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, 1100 N. El Camino Real. The event also includes an expo for nonprofit organizations and businesses. For information on the expo, including information on vendor booth space, contact Sot Proud of the Rotary Club of San Clemente, which is co-sponsoring the expo, at 949.373.2470.

www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC CITY AND COMMUNITY CALENDAR Thursday, October 3 Sunset Networking Mixer 5:30 p.m.

Halloween-themed Chamber mixer hosted

by Adele’s at the San Clemente Inn; wear a costume and be entered in a contest with prizes. 2600 Ave. Del Presidente, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

Friday, October 4 Grand Opening 7:30 a.m. Celebrate the opening of Wal-Mart with the Chamber.

951 Avenida Pico, 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

Saturday, October 5 Casa Romantica Fundraiser 8 a.m.Noon. Garage sale fundraiser with proceeds supporting Casa Romantica hosted by the Orange County Blossoms Questers and held at 24162 Paseo Del Campo, Laguna Niguel, 949.709.3308.

OCFA Open House 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The whole family is invited to visit the fire station and get a tour. 48 Avenida La Pata, www.san-clemente.org.

Sunday, October 6 San Clemente Farmers Market 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce, flowers and more every Sunday along Avenida Del Mar. First Sunday Book Sale 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Books on a variety of topics for sale at great prices the first Sunday of the month at San Clemente Library. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.276.6342, www.sanclementefol.org.

Tuesday, October 8 Beaches, Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting 6 p.m. Community Center. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

Good Neighbors Club of Capistrano Valley 11 a.m. Ladies’ luncheon at Wedgewood at the San Clemente Golf Course with an entertaining program featuring comedienne Laurie Jacobs. 150 Avenida Magdalena, San Clemente, 949.492.0621.

Substance Abuse Sub-committee Meeting 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Meeting at San Clemente Presbyterian Church in the Choir Room. 119 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente, 949.680.0516, wwwscpres.org.

Thursday, October 10 Carnival Colossal and Expo 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Opening day of the three-day familyfriendly event with carnival rides, food and more at Vista Hermosa Sports Park. Ticket prices and weekend hours vary. 987 Avenida Vista Hermosa, 949.276.8866, www.friendsofsanclemente.org.

San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

NEWS BITES

Compiled by Jim Shilander

PROPS, RECOGNITIONS AND MORSELS OF INFO

Wounded Warrior Car Stops in San Clemente A specially designed vehicle honoring wounded veterans stopped in San Clemente Tuesday, as it closed in on the end of a 48-state trip to raise funds for military families.

The High Five Tour raises funds for Wounded Warrior Family Support, an organization that provides resources for families of veterans who have lost limbs or suffered other significant injuries to provide in-home professional care. A mustang, specially manufactured by Ford and Shelby, will be auctioned off next year to benefit efforts to build a pair of “smart houses” for veterans in Oklahoma and North Carolina. Last year’s vehicle fetched $500,000 at auction. Information on the organization can be found at www.woundedwarriorsfamilysupport.org.

SONGS Sirens to be Tested Next Week Residents in San Clemente will hear the sounding of the entire San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station Community Alert Siren Network on Wednesday, October 16. The network of 50 sirens, 19 in San Clemente, serves the cities of San Clemente, Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano and the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. This routine testing is conducted annually. The sirens will be sounded multiple times for three minutes each time between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Public address messages may also be heard.

The city will also test AlertOC, a mass notification calling system, that week. On Monday, October 14, all landline phones in the city will receive automated phone messages notifying residents of the annual testing of the emergency sirens. Persons and businesses who have registered online with the city at www.alertoc.com will also receive cell phone, text message and email notifications.

For more information, visit the city’s website at www.san-clemente.org or contact the city’s Emergency Planning Officer, Jen Tucker, at 949.361.6109 or tuckerj@san-clemente. org.

SCHS Graduate Hosting Art Show to Benefit Return to Italy Jordan Zoscak, a 2008 San Clemente High School graduate, will host an exhibition of his portrait paintings and drawings from the last several years, Saturday, October 12, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at SC Café, 1810 S El Camino Real.

Zoscak is using the event as a fundraiser to help return to Florence, Italy, where he has been living the last several years while studying at the Florence Academy of Art.

Staff of SportClips in San Clemente with the special Ford Mustang for the High Five Tour, a project of Wounded Warrior Family Support. The project is a 48-state trip across the country to benefit the families of veterans afford in-home care for soldiers who have lost limbs in combat. Photo by Jim Shilander

made him more interested in the kind of portrait painting and drawing done during the Renaissance, as well as “academic” painting of the same period. While the last century has seen art move away from this style, he said, recently, schools have been moving back and a resurgence had been taking place in the last few years.

Friends Book Sale Sunday

2008 SCHS graduate Jordan Zoscak will be presenting an exhibition of his work, including this portrait, of the last several years Saturday October 12 at SC Café. Courtesy photo

“I’ve been drawing my whole life, and I always wanted to do something with it,” Zoscak said.

After graduating from SCHS, he attended the Laguna College of Art and Design, which had a partnership with the school in Florence. Zoscak said he liked the environment in Florence so much, he decided to stay.

“It’s kind of a touristy city and the school is international so there were a lot of different people there. I made a good group of friends right away,” he said. “I feel more of a culture shock coming back.”

Zoscak said getting to work in a city synonymous with the Renaissance masters

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The San Clemente Friends of the Library First Sunday of the Month Book Sale will be held on Sunday, October 6. The sale begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m. Books will be for sale in the Friends of the Library Book Store, on the sidewalk at Del Mar Avenue in front of the library, and in the Library Annex Room, 242 Avenida Del Mar Avenue, between Ola Vista Avenue and Seville.

Annual membership in the San Clemente Friends of the Library is $10 for individuals and $20 for families. For more information, contact the San Clemente Friends of the Library at 949.276.6342 or scfotl@gmail.com.

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

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.

Monday, September 30 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (12:53 p.m.) A caller reported a woman who was being mean and hitting an elderly man in a wheelchair. The witness said the woman was pushing the man in the wheelchair while walking near the Saddleback Memorial Medical Center ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Via Suerte, 800 Block (12:25 p.m.) Animal Control was contacted because two dogs were locked in a maroon truck with the windows rolled up for more than 25 minutes.

HIT AND RUN MISDEMEANOR Calle Patricia/Via Robina (12:08 p.m.)

A woman called deputies after witnessing a moving van back into a green electrical box on a street corner. She said after the driver struck the electrical box, he moved the van back to its original spot and didn’t appear to be calling anyone about the incident.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Pico, 100 Block (7:58 a.m.)

A caller reported someone inside a construction trailer at the beach trail near the Ole Hanson Beach Club and said there was a broken lock on the ground. Authorities contacted the city to see if they knew who was responsible for the portable restrooms.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 3900 Block (7:34 a.m.) A male transient was cursing at employees at the Carl’s Jr. counter. The dispatcher could hear the man yelling over the phone.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Avenida Estacion, 1700 Block (6:51 a.m.)

A witness reported an instructor of some sort who was on the beach teaching a class with a bull horn.

Sunday, September 29 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real/Avenida Pico (6:06 p.m.)

A man in his 50s, who appeared to be homeless, was seen standing on a street corner and urinating into the street. Witnesses said the man had a package sitting on the bus stop bench.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino Mira Costa, 3500 Block (2:33 p.m.) A woman called authorities because a man,. who appeared to be homeless was standing outside of her suite in an office building. She told deputies all the offices were closed and the man had no reason to be there.

DISTURBANCE La Esperanza, 200 Block (2:35 a.m.)

A caller said she could hear a woman yelling for help from the apartment unit above. The caller said she heard a party going on there before the yelling.

DRUNK IN PUBLIC Avenida Rosa, 200 Block (2:29 a.m.)

A caller reported a man who appeared to be drunk, sitting in his backyard. The man told deputies the intoxicated man was asking to come inside but then sat down outside on a patio chair.

family of the homeowner was contacted to clear the house.

DISTURBANCE-MUSIC OR PARTY Calle Las Palmas, 2300 Block (6:03 p.m.)

A group of about 30 people were partying on Riviera Beach and were believed to be smoking narcotics.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY El Camino Real/Avenida Dolores (3:53 p.m.) A man called authorities after witnessing a drunken man fall down in an alleyway and hurt himself. When authorities arrived the man became combative.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Agua/Camino De Los Mares (1:28 p.m.) Two adults with two small children were reportedly begging for money. The caller requested a welfare check on the two small children because it was hot out and they were all standing in the sun.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real/Avenida Del Mar (1:22 p.m.) A 35-year-old man wearing a white T-shirt, blue pants was seen with a large knife tucked in his waist band. The man was last seen walking toward Del Mar.

Saturday, September 28 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Baranda, 500 Block (10:02 p.m.)

A witness contacted authorities after seeing five to seven kids in the backyard of an elderly neighbor who was out of town. The

DISTURBANCE Calle Campana, 600 Block (12:44 p.m.)

A man called deputies and said there was a man waiting outside to fight him. The man was waiting outside the caller’s location by a green sedan.

SOAPBOX VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

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

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San Clemente Times, Vol. 8, Issue 40. 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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GUEST OPINION: Council Corner by Lori Donchak

Who is San Clemente’s General Plan?

Many worked behind the scenes to help make changes possible

“E

xactly who is our General Plan?”

Recently a young San Clemente student asked me that question.

At first, I laughed at the case of mistaken identity, as our San Clemente general plan serves as the foundational planning document for our community. On reflection, I realized the boy’s question wasn’t that far-fetched. Our general plan is practically a living thing, as it represents the soul of our community as envisioned by you. Five years ago, citizens were invited to be the inspiration and authors of a strategic plan ultimately leading to our new general plan.

You accepted the invitation. After 75 public meetings, a new general plan is moving forward for City Council adoption.

If our general plan were a person, she or he would be embodied by the hardworking General Plan Advisory Committee that was essential in creating the draft plan. The 25 members came from all parts of town to ensure broad engagement.

They in turn listened to residents, business, civic, philanthropic and faith-based

groups. Hundreds of people contributed their values and views.

GPAC volunteers initially signed up for a ninemeeting tour of duty. In reality, they met 29 times.

The end results are poliLori Donchak cies intended to nurture and celebrate the quality of life we hold so dearly. This is no small achievement.

Once approved, our general plan will be the community compass for the next 15 years. It was gratifying to see the good work of GPAC be reviewed and supported

by San Clemente’s Planning Commission, who brought a rich and meaningful level of oversight and experience to our draft general plan on its way to city council.

Here is a sampling of the many faces of our general plan. Gary Giacomini, owner of Rincon Truck Center, joined GPAC because he believed it was his civic duty as a resident and business owner in the Los Molinos area for over 25 years. Com-

mercial fisherman Ken Nielsen claims he would do it all over again if he had the chance. He said that despite different views, GPAC members were respectful throughout, on items as far ranging as relocation of the sewer plant to chickens being kept in residential areas.

Technology guru Jim Ruehlin served on both GPAC and Planning Commission and helped frame a new “Dark Skies” policy to manage the environmental impacts of lights at night. Pete Van Nuys, respected bicycle advocate, suggested new policies to make our town more bicycle-friendly.

These are just two examples of forward thinking that caused Forster Ranch resident Nancy Hunt to appreciate the experience. According to Nancy, a real estate professional, San Clemente as envisioned by our general plan could be a Chamber of Commerce poster for the world to see.

There aren’t enough good words to thank all those involved in this important process. You can view the proposed general plan at www.san-clemente.org

and learn about the 12 elements it covers: land use, urban design, historic preservation, economic development, mobility and complete streets, beaches, parks and recreation, natural resources, coastal safety, public services, facilities and utilities, growth management and governance.

These elements summarize the issues, policies and implementation measures that will guide city actions and programs for years to come.

While it’s true our general plan is not a single person, ours is the combined personality of a wealth of good people with terrific ideas. Hats off to our general plan.

Lori Donchak has served on the San Clemente City Council since 2006. She has previously served as mayor and also serves as a board member of the Orange County Transit Authority. 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.

Letters to the Editor ‘GOOD NEIGHBORS’ RESPECT OTHERS’ VIEWS GEORGE BRODY, San Clemente

I was perplexed reading Mr. Alpay’s “good neighbor” comments about the Verde Park tree situation (“San Clemente’s Good Neighbor” September 26). A good neighbor would not try to torpedo some of the Broadmoor homeowners’ desires and benefits to regain their ocean views, by managing or replacing some of the trees, which have grown to over 100 feet.

Assuming Mr. Alpay’s claim has San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

into why students jump the fence from the path, into Verde Park, and play hooky from the school.

some validity, not all trees are on school property. Some trees on the west side do provide shade on the pathway connecting the two campuses, but only on the last 50 feet (a very short portion of the path) and only in the morning. When the sun moves westerly in the afternoon—no more shade.

Also, there are many other view-obstructing trees in the park, not in the path area, which need to be dealt with.

I suggest Mr. Alpay consider the potential safety hazard of branches falling on the students (branches do fall down).

Also, maybe Mr. Alpay would like to look

ESTRELLA WIDENING PROJECT NEEDS FIXES TIM MAHER, San Clemente

Can anyone tell me why we widened Camino De Estrella? It’s obvious that whoever came up with this farce doesn’t live here. Ever since the widening has finished construction, the traffic has increased tenfold and no one bothered to see the Page 8

results.

We need two things done to complete the project. First, we need someone to re-sync the stop lights from the Ralphs shopping center to the light past Kmart. Every, single day the local traffic heading east on Camino de Estrella is tripled in one line to cross the overpass. It was never like that before the widening was done.

Second, the right lane that is now used only to enter southbound Interstate 5 causes a jailbreak as soon as the light turns green. If you make www.sanclementetimes.com

SOAPBOX

Letters to the Editor (cont.) that turn lane a right turn or straight lane, you will be preventing a major accident in the making. It is so stupid to have 20 cars lined up to go straight across the freeway and no cars turning onto the freeway, all because of a right turn only lane. By resyncing the lights you will get traffic moving smoother. Right now you get a green light at the Kmart light and as soon as this light turns green, the light at the on/off ramp turns red. These two lights are only 100 yards apart. You just start to move and you have to stop again.

We never had this problem until the widening was done.

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 readersubmitted 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.

CORRECTION: An article in the September 19 issue of The San Clemente Times about the new Common Core standards in the Capistrano Unified School District misstated when pre-algebra would be taught. Pre-algebra will be moved from the seventh to the eighth grade, not from the eighth to the ninth.

GUEST OPINION: Wavelengths, by Jim Kempton

Cabrillo ‘Discovers’ T Street

First Spanish explorers, were, after all, finding land already lived on

J

ust a mere 472 years ago this week, Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo became the first European to stumble onto the west coast of the North American continent. He set out from what is now Jalisco, Mexico, in June 16, 1542, with a fleet of three ships: a galleon named San Salvador, another rattletrap (the Victoria) and a weird lateen-rigged, 26-oared frigate christened San Miguel. It’s certain that these three vessels would not have passed the Harbor Patrol safety code and would be considered unseaworthy today. Nonetheless within three months he had made his way into what is now San Diego Bay. There is a grand monument there in San Diego now, but at the time he named the entrance to this beautiful natural harbor “San Miguel” to honor his scurvy-ridden Portuguese sailors on his smallest craft.

A little over a week later he reached Santa Catalina Island, which he named “San Salvador,” after his flagship. When the crew tried to take a small boat onto the shore there, “a great crowd of armed Indians appeared” looking pretty menacing. Juan booked it east towards the Pendleton coast as quick as his bloated 200-ton galleon could wobble, and it’s a good thing he did. When the natives discovered—that these buccaneers were

after nothing but gold and debauchery—they retracted their friendly welcome.

While cruising the coast on October 7, our own little San Clemente was named “Victoria”, in WAVELENGTHS honor of the third ship of

By Jim Kempton the fleet. The next morning—making good time for a sailboat— Cabrillo pulled into San Pedro Bay, which was named “Baya de los Fumos” (Smoke Bay), after the thick clouds of smoke, coming from the thousands of native campfires. The inversion layer in the Los Angeles basin was creating smog back before it was even called smog.

Although he wrote glowing reports of the opportunity along the California coast, the first European settlement did not begin until Father Junipero Serra came sweating his way up the Baja Peninsula.

Serra hiked his way along the same expansive bay Cabrillo had first sailed into more than two centuries earlier where he founded the San Diego de Alcala Mission, and a few years later, our own mission in San Juan Capistrano.

Juan Cabrillo went on to explore much of the rest of the California seaboard. In

an unfortunate accident Cabrillo broke his leg off the coast of Santa Barbara.

Without medical treatment, complications arose and in January 1543 he died of infection.

It is somewhat amusing in light of our recent knowledge of history that many still refer to Cabrillo as the “discoverer of California.” Of course the several hundred thousand Chumash and Acjachemen people living in California for over 9,000 years would have been surprised by that claim.

It’s unfortunate that we know so much about Cabrillo and his cohorts and so little about these amazing native people.

After all, they had been sailing to Catalina and the Channel Islands for centuries, and ironically, had medicinal knowledge that probably would have saved Juan’s limb and subsequently his life.

Jim Kempton’s last project was an exhibition at the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens. He hopes the Casa pursues a children’s education program focusing on the fascinating culture of the Acjachemen tribe who along with the Sierra’s Mission and Richard Henry Dana’s sailing sketches, comprise the third essential portion of the areas rich history. SC

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

03

LAGUNA BEACH ART WALK 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Monthly art event held every month at select galleries in Laguna Beach. More info: www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com.

GLUE AND GO COSTUMES FOR KIDS 4 p.m. Special event at the Dana Point Library for kids to make Halloween costumes with household items. 33841 Niguel Road, Dana Point, 949.496.5517, www.ocpl.org.

BOB SCHNEIDER 8 p.m. The artist from Austin plays The Coach House. $18. 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

friday

04

FALL CLASSIC FLIGHT 5:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Special flights of wine for the season at SC Wine Company. 212 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

ORANGE COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW 12 p.m.-10 p.m. The annual car show Thursday-Sunday at the Anaheim Convention Center. $10-$12. 800 W. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.765.8950, www.autoshowoc.com.

THE BRIAN YOUNG BLUES BAND 7:30 p.m.11 p.m. Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com.

AT THE MOVIES: THE LEGEND OF ‘DON JON’ In 1997, there was a double set of porn and sex themed features with P.T. Anderson’s Boogie Nights and Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s Orgazmo. Then, earlier this month Thanks for Sharing, which centered on sex addiction, was released. Now, Joseph Gordon-Levitt is taking the lead of the previous filmmakers and has released his first movie as actor, writer and director.

Titled Don Jon—a play on Don Juan—Gordon-Levitt’s film focuses primarily on porn addiction and not just sex. A New Jersey bartender named Jon (Gordon-Levitt) has a ritual of hitting the gym in the afternoon, going clubbing on Fridays and attending church on Sundays. Oh, and he makes a habit of watching porn on his laptop a nightly thing. When he meets Photo courtesy of Relativity Media Barbara (Scarlett Johansson), he suddenly wonders if she could actually be the girl to break him from his computer habit. Julianne Moore co-stars as Jon’s classmate and quirky mentor he befriends later in the story. Though it takes a while for the portrayal of Gordon-Levitt as a guido to sink in, Johansson is perfectly cast as a stuck-up sex kitten. Don Jon seems meant to be commentary on unrealistic expectations about sex and stereotypes linked to porn. While the movie succeeds on that end, it fails at being sexy with its intimate scenes, though that may have been done purposefully as Gordon-Levitt’s way of portraying porn as graphic but not sexy. — Megan Bianco

saturday

BELL BOOK & CANDLE 8 p.m. An American romantic comedy onstage at Cabrillo Playhouse. Shows through Oct. 6. Tickets $15-$20. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

05

DATE NIGHT CRUISE 8-9:30 p.m. Live music cruise in the DP Harbor on the Dana Pride offered by Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching every Saturday. Tickets $15. 34675 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

THE BOARDROOM-A SURFBOARD SHOW 10 a.m.6 p.m. Two-day celebration of the surf lifestyle with surfboards, shaping, appraisals, skateboards, films, art and music at the OC Fair & Event Center. $12. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 678.781.7953, boardroomshow.com.

THE VINTAGE FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL & FAREWELL TO THE SWALLOWS 6 p.m.-10 p.m. The 17th annual farewell to the swallows event at Mission San Juan Capistrano featuring food from local restaurants, wine tastings, dancing to live music, casino games, auctions and much more. Tickets $75. 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4700, www.vintagesjc.com.

sunday

SAN CLEMENTE SEAFEST 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The Chamber’s annual event at the San Clemente Pier featuring the famous Chowder Cook-off as well as an arts and crafts show, surf contest, business expo, kids activities and much more.

Free shuttle and parking available at San Clemente High School. 949.492.1131, www.scchamber.com.

06

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

GOT UKULELE? 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Ukulele players and fans are invited to Adventura for a Hawaiian music lesson and jam session; every Sunday. 24707 Dana Dr., Dana Point.

949.829.2675, www.ekanikapilakakou.com.

KINGS OF LEISURE WITH GUESTS THE CHOLULA’S 8 p.m. Concert at StillWater. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.danapointstillwater.com.

LOCAL SUNDAY SESSIONS 6 p.m. Local musical acts entertain at Cabrillo Playhouse. $5. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

monday

07

SMOKEY KARAOKE 8 p.m.

Get on stage at BeachFire.

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

TRAIL CLEARING AND WEEDING 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m.

Volunteer to clear and clean the trails with staff at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy.

Call for info, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

tuesday

ART EXHIBIT OPENING 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Casa Romantica hosts a reception to debut the exhibit by Rick J. Delanty titled, “The Colors of San Clemente.”

Free. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

08

COOKING CLASS: DINNER WITH FRIENDS 6:30 p.m. Cooking class at Antoine’s Cafe featuring: prosciutto wrapped pork tenderloin with balsamic-red wine reduction. Cost $50 each. 218 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com.

wednesday

CASA KIDS EDUCATION PROGRAMS 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Two new ongoing events at Casa Romantica for youngsters. First at 3 p.m., “Performing Tots” for ages 2-4 with music, storytelling, puppets and more. Then at 4 p.m., “Theater Improvisation” for ages 9-14 to explore creativity, acting and theater games. $185 per child. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

09

WINE DINNER 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Vine features a four-course food and wine pairing. $40. 211 N El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com. *For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Have an event?

Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com

1802 Avenida Salvador, San Clemente Magnificent Mediterranean Masterpiece of Style and Elegance is Complemented by Panoramic Ocean, Coastline, Catalina, Marina, City/Golf Course & Sunset Views. Marvel at this five bedroom, five bath home of nearly 5000 square feet. All bedrooms are ensuite with two on first floor, including one guest/in-law suite with kitchenette and separate entrance. Enjoy the gourmet granite kitchen, custom cabinets, walk-in pantry, six-burner Jenn-Air range, Sub-Zero built-in fridge and adjacent family room with fireplace, all overlooking the fabulous ocean vistas. One is greeted by a dramatic two-story rotunda entry, stone flooring, circular staircase, interior Romeo/Juliette balcony, formal living room with fireplace and wine bar. The sumptuous master retreat, with private ocean view deck, contains the third fireplace and exotic onyx master bath plus separate shower with spa soaking tub. This stunning home sits on a large lot of over onehalf acre which progresses down a gentle slope affording fantastic and never-ending views to the ocean. No Assoc, No Mello Roos.. $1,850,000 Pauline Jordan 949-498-1936 • 949-212-7516 paulinejordan@cox.net Paulinejordan.com dre#01053043

SC LIVING

4

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

SUDOKU

by Myles Mellor Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Last week’s solution:

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

Sea Fest Tradition Continues this Weekend Surf contest, chowder cook-off among the highlights of event

By Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

S

an Clemente chowder-heads can have their fill Sunday as the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s 26th annual Sea Fest comes to the San Clemente Pier.

The event was created as a way to provide families with a fun outing in the fall, Bob Novello, the operations manager for Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar said.

“I think it’s a great way for people to get out and see one another,” Novello said. “It should be a really good day.

We’re doing lobsters, like last year, and we’ll have corn and nachos and the concession stand going.”

Novello said the event’s signature, the annual clam chowder contest, was initially added because it basically aligned with the start of the season for chili cook-offs elsewhere, and the chamber wanted to give it a San Clemente flair by focusing on seafood.

The timing of Sea Fest is also important for businesses just coming off the busy summer, Novello said.

“The kids have been back for a month and people are ready for a break and a fun outing on the weekend,” he said. “I think everybody’s in that kind of groove.”

The event gives opportunities for individuals, including organizations, businesses and restaurants to compete against each other for both the judges and crowd. This year’s judging panel includes city councilmen Jim Evert and Chris Hamm, San Clemente Chief of Police Services John Coppock and City Manager Pall Gudgeirsson, and then there’s the title of “People’s Choice.” Those competing in this year’s restaurant category include the Fisherman’s, Beach Garden Café, Sundried Tomato Café (competing with Conrad Real Estate), Savannah Chop House of Laguna Niguel, The Country Club at Rancho Bernard from San Diego and Saddleback Memorial Center-San Clemente. Those competing as individuals include entries from the San Clemente Journal, iHOPE, So Cal Boot Camp, Second Battalion, Fourth Marines and Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, Link Web Services and Don Kunze.

Kunze estimates he’s been competing for over a decade.

His “Gadfly” chowder is evidence of his effort at engaging people on his issues, specifically the 241 Toll Road extension, which he opposes.

“Living in San Clemente, you don’t always get a chance

San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

The 26th Annual San Clemente Sea Fest includes the traditional clam chowder cook-off, featuring restaurants, organizations and individuals.

Courtesy photo

to meet someone eyeball to eyeball,” Kunze said. “And San Clemente’s my home.”

The other major event, the surf contest, will also return this year. Dean Reynolds of The Warehouse helped to rescue the event last year after it was threatened with cancellation due to issues outside the Chamber’s control.

Ten days before the event was supposed to move forward without the contest, Reynolds said he received a call from the chamber asking him to organize a family-friendly nonprofit event after they received calls from concerned competitors about the possibility of not holding the contest.

“I would say we’re open to any competitor, but it’s really a family surf event,” Reynolds said. “It really rounds out Sea Fest.”

While the competition is open to anyone and signups are ongoing, Reynolds said he anticipates approximately 72 competitors for the event, which includes all children 17 and under.

“Probably the most popular group is the 10 years and under group,” he said. “We could probably do a contest just for those competitors.”

Unlike most other surf contests, Reynolds said, all Page 19

competitors get to compete in at least two heats. Instead of taking out two competitors after a heat with two more moving forward, all surfers are given two heats. Those looking to sign up can do so at The Warehouse, located at 216 Los Molinos, and the Chamber offices at 1100 N. El Camino Real.

This year’s Sea Fest also includes a performance by “Shot in the Dark” a band formed by students from the West Coast School of Rock in Corona, as well as an arts and crafts show and business expo. SC The event begins with registration for the surf contest at 7 a.m. Entertainment on the pier will be ongoing between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Judging and public tasting of the chowders begin at 9:30 a.m. “People’s Choice” voting concludes at 1 p.m., with tasting ending “when chowder runs out.” Chowder winners are announced at 3 p.m. Reynolds estimated the surf contest will go until 4 p.m. Free parking and shuttles are available from San Clemente High School from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: Conscious Living, by Meryl Gwinn

Ecology Center Inspires Positive Environmental Change T ucked inside the agricultural corner of San Juan Capistrano, the antique Victorian-homestead headquarters of the Ecology Center blends quietly with the backdrop of the Spanish Mission city but serves as a treasure trove of ideas and inspiration for healthy and eco-friendly living.

Entering the center, which borders the oldest working farm in Southern California, is like going back in time, except that the energy in these parts is anything but static. The center’s one acre is home to the general store, surrounding gardens, greenhouse and eco labs and has quickly become an exciting venue linking past and future and creating an engaging niche for community events and educational outreach.

The Ecology Center’s mission is simple: to inspire positive change to the environment of Southern California.

Their concept—empowering people with tangible tools to create healthy communities—addresses real questions such as: How do we ensure the future health of our oceans? How can we make our homes healthier? How do we manage food supply and waste? How can we support the children of all species for all of time?

It’s a refreshing endeavor and Evan Marks, founder and executive director, is creative in his pursuit. And in a time when our local paradise is facing some burdening changes, the center seeks to unite our community in a fun way to provoke big ideas.

So what does that look like? Regular workshops, lectures and cooking classes emphasize healthy and sustainable practices.

Seasonal community table events host collaborations with local chefs CONSCIOUS LIVING where meals are preBy Meryl Gwinn pared from ingredients harvested directly from the grounds and enjoyed with new friends in a picturesque courtyard setting. Like-minded people come together to practice permaculture, natural building techniques and renewable energy solutions. Ecotoberfest is on the calendar for the end of this month, celebrating the “drink local” movement with live music, fresh baked fare and a local brew master discussing the sourcing and production of organically crafted brews.

The balance of responsible environmental work with joyful appreciation of the community connection is fundamental here.

Visit and park in the dirt lot shared by the neighboring South Coast Farm Stand and be greeted by a wonderland of native plant species all labeled and marked for medicinal, craft, or food relevancies. A medley of lavender and citrus beckons you deeper into the neatly landscaped gardens, and a farm cat may even stroll across your path. Suddenly, you’re not on the freeway anymore.

Enter “Tools For Change,” to find a simple yet modern general store, full of

classic provisions, eco-approved home and skin care products, DIY kits, backyard manuals and freshly jarred local honey, jam and nut butters. The Victorian home housing the store was originally built by the Pony Express rider, Joel Congdon, in 1878 on Orange County’s first walnut grove. The structure was the first wooden house in town, constructed from California Redwood and rock from the Great Stone Church at Mission San Juan Capistrano. Beside the store, it is fitted with an adorable vintage kitchen for events, as well as a library and mini museum documenting the history of our county in terms of food, water, shelter, energy and transportation.

Just outside, wide-eyed young people cruise the Waste Lab, where chickens help to illustrate the zero-waste concept.

Garden scraps are fed to the chickens, then their waste is added to compost to feed the garden. The chickens provide fresh eggs as well.The core message is one of sustainability, answering the question: How can I give more than I take?

Following an afternoon here, you can’t help but leave with a renewed sense of responsibility and enthusiasm. The project begs the questions: How can we live closer to nature’s perfect model? What can I do to help my environment to thrive?

The answers are all about preserving traditions that have worked for ages— such as food preservation and rain water collection—while creating tools to adapt to today’s challenges, like installing a grey

water system in your home.

So then, what a better location to bridge this gap than the relic that is the Congdon House?

Gracefully put by Jeff Davis, director of outreach, “As one of Orange County’s oldest standing embodiments of the past, (the Congdon House) serves to remind us that we must act today to rejuvenate the environment for the generations to follow.”

Check out their website at www.theecologycenter.org and take a visual guided tour of the property. You may just find yourself inspired, by the many resources offered, to get activated in your own sustainable practices at home. Then share them with your neighbor and contribute to a healthier, happier movement and give back to the land that we love.

Meryl Gwinn has a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology, has studied yoga, health, food, and humans around the globe. She is a constant pursuer of natural medicine and whole-healing solutions. She believes in the power of choice, simplicity and plants as preventative medicine. She is committed to inspiring this change in self and in system. Gwinn welcomes reader feedback at meryl.gwinn@gmail.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

Casa Toasted with ‘Night in Wine Country’ Photos and text by Jim Shilander San Clemente Times

H

undreds gathered Saturday at the home of San Clemente founder Ole Hanson to partake in wine and food from restaurants and wineries for the 11th annual Toast to the Casa.

The event is the Casa Romantica’s largest fundraiser.

This year the Toast also served as a way to formally introduce the Casa’s new executive director, Berenika Schmitz, and to unveil the new Casa Captivating series, including expanded offerings for children, classical music, jazz, a speaker series, a wellness program, a series of openings for visual artist exhibitions, a dance series and continuing the current coastal exhibition, Casa Coastal.

For more information on the offerings, visit the Casa’s website, www.casaromantica.org (Clockwise from top left) Col. Jason Bohm, left, Michele Parrish, Casa board member; Ruth DeNault, board president; Berenika Schmitz, executive director; Gordon Olson, board treasurer and Bonnie Koch, board secretary. The Casa Romantica was transported to California’s wine country Saturday at the 11th Annual Toast to the Casa. San Clemente City Councilman Jim Evert and wife Sharyn. Members of the band Django play outside on the veranda.

San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

Page 20

www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS

5

& OUTDOORS STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SC S a n C le m e n te

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

EARLY BIRDIES VAULT MICHAEL SARRO TO FIRST-PLACE

San Clemente’s Michael Sarro bested a talented junior golf field on September 28, fueled by an early birdie charge, to claim the Heartwell Fall Challenge first-place trophy at Heartwell Golf Club in Long Beach.

The tournament was part of the Southern California PGA Junior Tour circuit, where Sarro is currently ranked No. 14 in the boys 12-13 age division.

Sarro birdied five of his first eight holes on the day and made the turn at 24 (-3). He would shoot a 29 (+2) on the back to give him a total 18-hole

PGA Junior Tour Director Brad Dion congratulates Michael Sarro on his tournament win. Courtesy photo

score of 53 (-1). Sarro had six birdies on his winning scorecard and he edged current Junior Tour No. 1 Christopher Yun by one stroke.

“It makes me a lot more confident because I know my game is good enough to beat the top players and contend to win now in every tournament I play,” Sarro said.

Sarro, who turned 12 in June, is new to the 12-13 age division and won in just his fourth start. The win gives him an automatic berth into the Junior Tour Championship in December.

—Steve Breazeale

Capistrano Coyotes Skate Into New Territory

By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times

T

he process of creating a high school hockey team that draws from the Capistrano Unified School District has been a laborious one. But after 14 months of patient talks and paperwork, students attending eight local high schools finally have the chance to play alongside classmates as part of the Capistrano Coyotes high school ice hockey team.

The 22-man roster consists of students from San Clemente, San Juan Hills, Capistrano Valley and Dana Hills, to name a few.

The team is not a Capistrano Unified sanctioned sport and plays in the Anaheim Ducks High School Hockey League, which now features 28 teams from 19 different California schools. The Coyotes were one of 14 new teams added to the mix for the 2013-2014 season.

Coyotes head coach Darren Gardner will be in charge of building a program that, several weeks ago, did not exist. Gardner has 39 years of playing and coaching experience at the professional, high school and club level, and has been in this start-up situation before.

After successfully guiding the club team Phoenix Junior Coyotes, to two Arizona State Championships, Gardner left for a coaching gig in Minnesota that was nursing a 2-year-old high school hockey program. That team was full of sophomores but eventually went on to win a Minnesota sectional title.

In the world of junior hockey, club teams have been the norm for years. The Anaheim Ducks league was established in 2008, which finally gave Southern California high school students who wanted to play at both the club and high school levels the opportunity. Half of the Coyotes players still play on their club team, which has created a unique atmosphere.

“Every single kid on the team, it’s the first time they get to play high school hockey. It’s new to them. There are more players on the bench, more players in practice. It’s a different environment,” Gardner said.

“It’s great to get more ice time in and get that high school sports experience with all the fans and everything,” Capistrano Connections Academy sophomore Declan Curtis added. “Everyone works hard and the team has a

San Clemente Times October 3-9, 2013

Coyotes players Max Kamper, left, and Declan Curtis hold off a Corona-Norco player during a game on September 7. Photo by Leslie Bird

lot of potential.”

On any given week the Coyotes can be without several of their players due to club commitments. That means more ice time for the non-club players and a constant mix and match roster that Gardner calls a “juggling act.” That normally would spell trouble when it comes to winning games, but so far the Coyotes have been successful.

They are off to a 2-0 start in the young season that will eventually see them play 15 games. The Coyotes have outscored their opponents 8-1 and have wins over CoronaNorco and most recently, a 3-0 win over Edison that came on September 21.

Because the Coyotes draw from such a large talent pool, their roster is made up of all skill levels. They are led by three seniors, Keenan Haase (forward), Connor Reid (forward) and Colin Kennedy (defenseman). There is one freshman on the team, nine sophomores and a handful of juniors. In all, the Coyotes have players who have competed at the 18AAA, 16AAA and 16AA divisions, which Gardner feels is a good mix. The hard part, according to the veteran coach, has been getting the talent to mesh Page 21

together in the early goings.

“We started with this wide vista … It’s kind of like when you were a kid. When you go to the park and all your buddies show up and you play a game. You know everyone. You know their strengths and weaknesses,” Garnder said. “Now throw in 10 kids that come from a neighborhood you’ve never seen. You don’t know the talent so you don’t know how to even up the teams. We’re still learning, trying to get comfortable and find our stride and get a routine.”

The Coyotes don’t have the luxury of an established program like Santa Margarita or JSerra have, which means they are taking baby steps in forming their style of play and practice routines until it all comes together. They are hoping to gain eight more players to reach the desired number of 30 that the Anaheim Ducks league wants them to hit.

For now the team will continue to learn how to play with each other and rely on their mix of talent as they tread onto new and yet unscratched ice. They will travel to play against San Diego South, another district-wide team, on October 5. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

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San Clemente Times October 3–9, 2013

Page 23

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS South Coast Tournament. The 32-team field played in four different venues from September 26-28 and three of the Tritons five games were decided by two points or less.

The Tritons opened up tournament play with an 8-7 sudden death loss to Huntington Beach on September 26. The Tritons capped off the tournament with a high-scoring 22-20 loss to University in overtime.

Recent transfer Andrew Papillion, along with junior attack Chase Hamming, fueled the Tritons offense over the course of the tournament. The two combined for 31 of the Tritons goals, including a 13-goal effort from Papillion against University. Hamming led the charge for the Tritons in a 9-8 win over Capistrano Valley on September 27.

The Tritons easily defeated Tesoro, 11-3, in the tournament and will play the Titans again in a nonleague match on October 7.

Triton Report

By Steve Breazeale and Jim Shilander

Follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports for updates on all the San Clemente fall sports programs.

TRITONS TURNOVERS PROVE COSTLY IN 34-13 LOSS TO SAILORS Newport Harbor took advantage of Tritons mistakes Friday at Thalassa Stadium, returning two interceptions for touchdowns in a 34-13 victory over San Clemente on September 27.

Surprise Tritons (2-3) starting quarterback Cole Fotheringham looked alternately promising and like a young sophomore.

Fotheringham was 15-30 for 125 yards and two touchdowns, but threw four interceptions, including the two returned for touchdowns by Newport Harbor (2-2) senior defensive back Quest Truxton. Senior Loren Applegate replaced Fotheringham on the Tritons last series.

The Sailors opened the scoring on their first drive of the game, as Truxton took a Cole Norris pass and just reached over the pylon to score from 24 yards. After a Tritons punt pinned them at their own five-yard line, Newport Harbor used hard running and a few pass plays to move the ball to the Tritons three, where Chance Siemonsma took the ball in to make it 14-0.

The Tritons offense improved on its next drive, as Fotheringham hit Jason Wright and Collin Zines for first downs on the drive, to go along with several good runs by sophomore Vlad Dzhabiyev. However, following a sack on second down, an apparent mix-up on a route led to an interception by Truxton that was returned for a score.

San Clemente managed to pick itself up, however, as Dzhabiyev, Fotheringham and Wright moved the ball down inside the Sailor’s five-yard line before the close of the half. On third and goal from the one, Fotheringham found Cole Harlow in the end zone, and San Clemente closed the score to 21-7 just before half.

The teams exchanged short drives and punts in the third quarter, until a Sailor drive moved the ball inside the Tritons red zone, ultimately leading to a 26-yard field goal at the start of the fourth quarter.

Following a roughing the punter penalty, Fotheringham hit three different receivers, including junior Jake Russell twice, the second for a 12-yard touchdown pass.

The next Sailors drive saw a more than 70-yard run wiped out by penalty, and the Sailors only managed to run a minute from the clock, potentially giving San Clemente new life. However, an interception on the drive’s second play led to a time consuming Newport drive that led to a field goal San Clemente Times October 3–9, 2013

San Clemente senior tight end Jason Wright had a team-high 59 yards on six catches in the Tritons 34-13 loss to Newport Harbor on September 27. Photo by Tony Tribolet/www.xpsphoto.com

and a 27-13 lead. Any hope of a comeback was squelched on the second play of the Tritons ensuing drive, when Truxton returned his second interception of the day for a score, this time from 40 yards out.

Wright led the Tritons with six catches for 59 yards. Dzhabiyev rushed 13 times for 50 yards.

San Clemente has lost three in a row and will travel to play defending CIF-SS Southwest Division champion Edison on October 4. –Jim Shilander TRITONS GIRLS VOLLEYBALL PREPS FOR LEAGUE PLAY After pulling off an upset win over Capistrano Valley on September 19 the San Clemente girls volleyball team traveled to play in the Cougars own preseason tournament September 27-28 and went 2-1 over the two-day stretch.

San Clemente defeated both Northwood and Chino Hills in two sets but fell to Rancho Cucamonga 2-1.

The Tritons (4-9) will now open South Coast League play with an October 8 home match against Trabuco Hills.

DANA HILLS GIRLS GOLF GETS EVEN WITH TRITONS When last the Dana Hills and San Clemente girls golf teams squared off, the Tritons got the better of their South Coast League rival. On October 1, Dana Hills evened things up with a narrow 212-213 win at Bella Collina Towne and Golf Club.

Dolphins freshman Joan Soewondo shot a 38 (+2) to lead Dana Hills (8-6, 1-2) to a much needed victory. The Tritons (7-3, 3-2) still hold a lead over Dana Hills in the league standings and were set for a rematch with the Dolphins on October 3.

Results were not available at press time.

Page 24

WEEKEND GAMES PROVIDE DRAMA FOR TRITONS BOYS WATER POLO The San Clemente boys water polo team had a wild weekend playing in the

CROSS COUNTRY The San Clemente varsity girls cross country team ran at the Stanford Invitational on September 28 and came in eighth place. Senior Melissa Eisele (18:49) and Kelsey Carroll (18:54) finished 14th and 15th, respectively.

The rest of the Tritons team competed in the Dana Hills invitational. The freshman squad came in third place. Sophomore McKenna Brownell paced her age group with a 19:00 time.

Kitakis Reels in Catch of a Lifetime Local fisherman paddles out on a lark and comes up with 24-pound halibut

By Steve Breazeale San Clemente Times

A

aron Kitakis does not always fish while floating around offshore on a longboard. In fact, at the urging of a friend, September 24 was the first time the San Clemente resident attempted to do so. But as the sun went down on the San Onofre beaches, on one of his last casts of the day, a 24-pound halibut landed on Kitakis’ line just past the surf break at Dogpatch.

Kitakis says he wrestled with the fish for close to 15 minutes before a nearby paddleboarder came by to lend a hand. Once he got the fish close to the surface, the paddleboarder held his fishing gear while Kitakis reached in and grabbed the large halibut.

The paddleboarder towed him close to shore and Kitakis dragged the fish in.

Kitakis measured the fish and said that it was 41 inches in length.

“I have caught a lot of big fish of that magnitude but this was probably one of my best catches,” Kitakis said. “I have never seen a halibut that big caught on a surfboard and nobody there had either … The whole story is unbelievable, I still can’t fathom it.” SC

Aaron Kitakis with his 24-pound halibut he caught while fishing on a longboard at San Onofre. Courtesy photo

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SC SURF

6

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

GROM OF THE WEEK TYLER VESQUE

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

SC S a n C le m e n te

Age: 10, Concordia Elementary Tyler Vesque began surfing at the age of 5. “My dad taught me and when I caught my first wave it just felt really good and I was really excited and happy,” Tyler said. That’s when he knew he would definitely become a surfer. Since then he has competed in a handful of local competitions but last year’s Stoke-o-Rama was when he really decided that surfing is something he wants to do every day. A fifth-grader at Concordia Elementary, Tyler is also a top student, earning 3 and 4 marks (on a scale of 1 to 4, 4 being the best). He is looking forward to starting middle school next year and the opportunity to try out for the surf team.

Tyler also has his sights set on surfing for the San Clemente High School team and following in his father Josh’s footsteps, who served as team captain in his high school days. He also dreams of becoming a pro surfer. Thanks to the support and encouragement of family and friends, Tyler feels he is ready to delve into competition and would like to do some Western Surfing AssociaTyler Vesque. Photo by Andrea Swayne tion contests this season. “All my friends compete and it’s just really fun to hang out with them and I feel like I’m ready,” he said. “A couple of days ago I went out at Rivi and I took off on a set and got a barrel. It was the first one I’ve made it out of.”—Andrea Swayne

Silver Surfer

SURF FORECAST

Capistrano Beach surfer Rachael Tilly brings home an individual silver medal from the 2013 ISA World Longboard Championship in Peru

By Andrea Swayne San Clemente Times

A

lthough hopes for a team medal at the 2013 ISA World Championship in Peru were dashed when the illness-plagued USA squad’s two men and one junior men competitor were eliminated in earlier rounds, Capistrano Beach local Rachael Tilly powered through to take silver in the women’s division.

Going into the event, Team USA was expected to be in medal contention but all four members fell ill adding an extra hurdle to overcome.

“It was a bummer, it was hard on our team because it caused us not to do as well as we wanted to as a team,” Tilly said.

“Luckily, when I got sick I didn’t surf the following day. It was also kind of a blessing that I lost out because it meant I had to surf extra heats. Those extra heats helped me slowly gain back my energy and I felt pretty strong in the Repechage Final.”

Her improving strength showed and Tilly finished second in the Rep Final behind Hawaiian Megan Godinez to move on to the Final.

“As the heat wound down, I only needed a 5.01 and I knew that was a score I could get,” she said. “I was in third and looking for that right wave when I finally caught one in the last minute. It didn’t line up like I wanted it to but it was enough to push me up to second place.”

In the Final, Tilly earned a two-wave score of 10.43 (out of 20) making her the runner-up to individual gold medalist Simone Robb (11.50) of South Africa. Justine Dupont (9.83) of France earned bronze and Godinez (7.27), copper.

Tilly’s teammates, Tony Silvagni of North Carolina and Taylor Jensen of Oceanside, along with junior division team member Nick Anderberg of Cardiff, played a big part in supporting her through to the

San Clemente Times October 3–9, 2013

Rachael Tilly earned an individual silver medal at the 2013 ISA World Longboard Championship in Brazil.

Photo by ISA/Rommel Gonzales

finals, she said.

“The team was so behind me and had so much confidence in me,” Tilly said. “They were saying, ‘You totally got this, you’ve been surfing great all week.’ It really boosted my confidence and it was great to have them there to support me.”

The team did make progress this year, thanks largely to Tilly’s silver medal performance. Last year, before the addition of a women’s division in the event, Team USA finished in eighth place. This year they moved up one ranking to No. 7 in the world.

“Wearing my team hat and shirt on the plane was super cool because I have never had an experience like this. It was my first time traveling internationally for surfing and representing the county was an honor,” Tilly said. “I wore my medal on the way home and people were asking for autographs and pictures. I was blown away that this was actually happening. Traveling

as part of the team was an amazing dream come true.”

For more information about the event, including full results, heat-by-heat scores, photos and videos, visit www.isawlc.com. SC

Water Temperature: 65-68 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 10-12’ Fair Catalina: 15-20’+ Good Immediate: A blend of holding northwest swell-mix and building new south-southwest groundswell prevails on Thursday.

Most breaks offer waist-chest high (3-4’) waves, while standout combo spots pull in larger sets running up to shoulder high+ (4’+) at times. More size shows late in the day as new Southern Hemi energy picks up.

Light/variable to light southerly wind early gives way to a light westerly sea-breeze into the afternoon.

Long Range Outlook:New south-southwest groundswell builds further Friday and peaks, holding good energy into the weekend as northwest swell-mix eases. Best exposures are good for waist-chest-head high waves (3-5’) with larger sets for top focal points and combo breaks. Check out Surfline.com

RESULTS NSSA Open, Event No. 2, September 2829, Huntington Beach, Pier Local finishers only. MEN: 1. Kevin Schulz, San Clemente. BOYS: 1. Kade Matson, San Clemente. MINI GROMS: 1. Jett Schilling, San Clemente; 2. Nicholas Coli, San Clemente.

WOMEN: 1. Tia Blanco, San Clemente. GIRLS: 2. Alexxa Elseewi, San Clemente. AIRSHOW: 1. Colt Ward, San Clemente; 2. Jordan Kudla, San Clemente.

Log on to www.sanclementetimes.com for full results.

UPCOMING EVENTS October 5: Surfing America Prime, Event No. 2, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach

Rachael Tilly on the podium. Photo by ISA/Rommel Gonzales

Page 26

October 5: NSSA Explorer, Event No. 5, Huntington Beach Pier

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