LO C A L
November 13–19, 2014
N EWS
YO U
C A N
U S E
‘Maine’ Comes to SCHS PAGE 14
VOLUME 9, ISSUE 46
A Man for All Surf Seasons Dorian ‘Doc’ Paskowitz: a maverick among surfing peers, a singular story in the surfing world, remembered SC SURF/PAGE 30
www.sanclementetimes.com
Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz, 1921-2014. Photo: Art Brewer
Council Divided on SONGS Waste Resolution EYE ON SC/PAGE 3
Triton Football to Open Playoffs Against Fullerton at Home SPORTS/PAGE 20
New Storefronts May Help Transform City’s Northern Gateway EYE ON SC/PAGE 8
VOTE ONLINE FOR THE 2014 BEST OF SAN CLEMENTE PEOPLE’S CHOICE OLE AWARDS
SC EYE ON SC San Clemente
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING its dry cask storage vendor, but said the decision would not be driven by profit motive, since ratepayers have already paid into an established decommissioning fund controlled by the state.
San Bernardino Sheriff’s Officers arrested former Jospeh McStay business partner Charles Merritt Nov. 5 for the murder of the McStay family. Photo: Courtesy San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department
What’s Up With... Five things San Clemente should know this week
WHAT’S NEXT: According to a press release from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, Merritt was arrested without incident and was booked for murder and held without bail. The San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office filed four counts of murder against Merritt. He was initially scheduled to be arraigned Friday, but it was delayed until Wednesday, Nov. 12.—JS
Arrest Made in McStay Murder Case
Council Passes SONGS Resolution
THE LATEST: The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has arrested a suspect in the murder of former San Clemente businessman Joseph McStay, his wife, Summer, and the couple’s two sons. Charles “Chase” Merritt, 57, a resident of Homeland, was arrested Wednesday, Nov. 5, for the murder of all four McStays. Merritt is a former business associate of Joseph McStay. The McStay’s were former residents of San Clemente before they moved to San Diego County. The family’s remains were discovered in November 2013 in San Bernardino County. Cause of death was ruled to be blunt force trauma. A memorial paddleout was held in January in San Clemente, and the family was formally buried July 15. The family went missing from their home in Fallbrook in February 2010. Sightings of the family had been reported intermittently, especially in 2010, as well as reports that the family may have fled to Mexico. Merritt was among those interviewed in a CNN special “Who Murdered the McStay Family?” In the report, he is described as “the last person to see Joseph McStay alive,” and claimed the two discussed business before the disappearance. At a press conference Friday, investigators said they believed the family had been murdered in their Fallbrook home and that there was no reason to suspect others were involved.
THE LATEST: A unanimous vote on a resolution to ask the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to remove spent nuclear fuel from the site of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station belied a contentious debate between four San Clemente City Council members Thursday. The original language of the resolution, crafted by city staff and members of the city’s environmental community, included language voicing objection to an August decision of the NRC to allow spent fuel to be stored at the site for an indefinite period, rather than being moved elsewhere in the state. It also asked for additional more robust storage structures for nuclear waste storage. The resolution is largely symbolic, as the city has no jurisdiction over nuclear fuel storage at the plant. A number of anti-nuclear activists spoke in support of the originally proposed language, including San Clemente residents. They argued that the council should not sit by and allow storage options initially intended to be temporary so near the city. Both the federal government and Department of Energy had failed to live up to promises in the past to deal with the fuel, they said, and it is up to the City Council to agitate for something better in San Clemente. Tom Palmisano, Southern California Edison’s Chief Nuclear Officer, said the utility has yet to make a final decision on
San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
WHAT’S NEXT: The council divided over just what kind of language to include. Mayor Tim Brown, who sits on Edison’s Community Engagement Panel, said that every San Clementean wishes to have the waste removed, but additional stances on issues of dry cask storage distracted from the original goal of spent fuel removal. Councilwoman Lori Donchak said she worries removing language about defense in depth or temporary holding sites “took the teeth” out of the resolution. The final resolution includes support for a permanent fuel storage facility and reactivation of the Yucca Mountain project in Nevada. The city forwarded copies of the resolution to its state and federal representation, as well as nearby cities. FIND OUT MORE: For more on the debate, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. – JS
Beach Restroom Plans on Hold for More Study THE LATEST: With the restrooms at the base of the San Clemente Pier slated to undergo demolition Nov. 17 and reconstruction in time for the summer season, the next set of restrooms scheduled for a remodel were on the agenda of the Beaches, Parks & Recreation Commission Tuesday. With requests by the City Council to “fast track” future beach restroom repair proposals, recreation staff had been tasked with looking at two seemingly similar restrooms, T Street and Boca del Canon, to see if both could be remodeled in a similar fashion to come into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, in order to save on economies of scale. Unfortunately for the city, department director Sharon Heider told the commission Tuesday that the two are dissimilar enough that both would likely require their own plans. Heider said of the two, T Street would likely require less work to add handicap accessibility, though some general structural maintenance and repairs were necessary to the site. Boca del Canon, however, was “more challenging” Heider said, in terms of adding accessibility. The preferred option there was a “family-style” unisex restroom on one side, similar to what will be added at the base of the pier. WHAT’S NEXT: Commissioners were concerned with the exteriors of both buildings as well. Heider had said the department had hoped to avoid a major remodel
Page 3
that would have required the buildings be done in Spanish Colonial Revival style, but said the option could be explored. Commissioners said both facilities, but especially T Street, should exemplify the city’s architectural character. The commission voted 5-1 to table further discussion until a later date to allow for a look at the fiscal impact of the necessary facade improvements. — JS
North Beach Bar Appeal on Tap for Next Council Meeting THE LATEST: Nearly a year after the City Council last heard about the proposal, the owner of a building on North El Camino Real proposing to turn the facility into a restaurant with outdoor dining on its roof is slated to go before the council again at its Nov. 18 meeting. The proposal was rejected by the Planning Commission in August 2013, then appealed to the City Council that fall, which continued it to allow for changes to the proposal. After two continuances, the project was tabled in January. WHAT’S NEXT: The proposal has garnered support and opposition from residents of North Beach. Opponents, including those living near the facility, and nearby business owners, have largely focused on the potential noise impacts to the area. Proponents have argued that the development would provide a unique dining experience not found elsewhere in the city, and would help provide North Beach with another landmark and gathering spot as it works to redevelop. Objections from both the City Council and Planning Commission have also stressed the number of parking issues for the proposal, which would currently require 26 parking waivers. — JS
La Pata Update THE LATEST: Major road construction work may soon begin on the La Pata gap closure project between San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. The Orange County Transportation Authority reported earlier this month that its contractor has nearly completed refuse removal work necessary for construction at the Prima Deshecha Landfill and that major progress had been made at the earthwork at the site. WHAT’S NEXT: Once work at the landfill is complete, construction will begin to close the gap in the road that currently terminates at the landfill, across approximately 1.8 miles to its terminus near Talega. Work is expected to be completed in fall of 2016. – JS www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
Community Meetings
NEWS BITES COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
Chamber, Rotary Club to Host Business Culture Seminar The San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club and the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce are collaborating to present a free seminar to explain in depth how having cultural goals in place can measurably reduce company expenses and increase revenue, including ways to improve customer service and unify a workforce. The seminar is scheduled for Nov. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the offices of the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, 1231 Puerta Del Sol, No. 200. Alan Adamo, a member of the San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club, is presenting the seminar. Adamo is an instructor at UC-Irvine in organizational development and a former corporate vice president of human resources for Fluidmaster. For more information and registration for the seminar, contact the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce at 949.492.1131 or email info@scchamber.com. Faxed registration is also accepted at 949.492.3764.
Rotary Club Looking for Charities to Support The San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club is looking for charities who want to earn money and publicity for their organization. “Dancing for a Cause,” now in its fifth year, is accepting applications from charities to participate by sending a dancer to compete in the ballroom dance competition. It will be held at the Casino San Clemente on April 17, 2015. Deadline to apply is Nov. 24. Past events have raised over $70,000 for charities. Rotarians are currently seeking dance studios and charities who want to be involved. The winning dancer will take home a trophy and cash prize of $1,000 for their charity. For more information or registration for upcoming DFAC fundraiser, please
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13
Community Energy Efficiency Meeting Participants in the 2014 edition of Dancing for a Cause. The San Clemente Sunrise Rotary is seeking organizations to participate in next year’s event, to be held April 17. Photo: Cathy Manso
contact Helen Del Grosso, 2015 Chair at helen_delgrosso@yahoo.com.
Glasgow Seeking Sports Equipment for Donations San Clemente Citizen of the Year and volunteer Don Glasgow is seeking donations of used or no longer needed sports equipment to give to needy families in impoverished neighborhoods near Tijuana. Items will be inspected, fixed if needed and cleaned. Items being collected include bicycles, soccer gear, baseball gear, Razor scooters, skateboards and other related sports and play items such as sports shoes. No surfboards or snow related items should be donated. Contact Glasgow at 949.481.0116 or donglasgow45@aol.com.
SDG&E Warning of Scammers San Diego Gas & Electric has been receiving reports from customers who have been contacted by individuals misrepresenting themselves as utility employees. The imposters threaten to shut off electric and gas service unless payment is made immediately. The impersonators tell customers to purchase pre-paid cash or credit cards and call another phone number, where fake utility employees then get information from the cards and remove the cash value. The scammers have reportedly victimized local businesses as well as residential customers.
If customers receive a call from someone posing as an SDG&E employee, they are asked to hang up and call the utility’s main customer service line directly at 800.411.7343. Customers should also call if they have any doubts about a visitor who shows up at your home or business, claiming to be a representative of SDG&E. The company provides past-due notices in writing before service is shut off for nonpayment and does not proactively contact customers to get credit card, banking or other financial information over the phone. Customers should not provide financial information by telephone unless you initiated the call.
St. Clement’s Hosting Holidays by-the-Sea Auction Saint Clement’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church in San Clemente will be hosting a fundraising silent auction and dinner, Sunday, Nov. 23 at 5 p.m. Holidays-by-the-Sea auction items include a week in Mammoth, Angels tickets, gift cards to local restaurants and certificates for hair and nail salons. The auction will be followed by a three-course prime rib dinner provided by Rocco’s Restaurant. Tickets for the event are on sale for $35 from the church office by calling 949.492.3401. There will also be a raffle of a lighted Christmas tree decorated with 100 lottery tickets. Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
6 p.m. Learn more about new city programs allowing for energy efficiency optimization of your home. San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, www.san-clemente.org.
Coastal Advisory Commission
7 p.m. San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, www.san-clemente.org. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18
City Council Meeting
6 p.m. Council Chambers, City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio, www.san-clemente.org. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
Kiwanis Meeting
Noon. The local Kiwanis Club meets at Carrows. 620 Avenida Pico, 949.290.8729, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.
SC Rotary Club
Noon. Pride of the Pacific Bar & Grille, 150 Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.3619, www.sanclementerotary.org.
Planning Commission Meeting
6 p.m. Council Chambers, City Hall, 100 Avenida Presidio, www.san-clemente.org. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Hospital Advisory Committee
11:30 a.m. San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville, www.san-clemente.org.
EYE ON SC
Well wishers and military veterans heard from speakers at the Park Semper Fi Saturday at the city’s Veteran’s Day celebration. Photo: Courtesy of Wayne Eggleston
San Clemente Honors Veterans Saturday event at Park Semper Fi brought out World War II vets eated in the shadow of the towering Marine Monument overlooking the San Clemente Pier, a group of veterans and active service members congregated at Park Semper Fi Saturday to honor and celebrate the nation’s veterans. “We had about a dozen World War II veterans here today,” said former San Clemente mayor and current executive director of Park Semper Fi Wayne Eggleston. “It was an honor to celebrate our veterans and it’s just great that they’re still here with us.” The first featured speaker was 93-yearold WWII veteran Cmrd. Fred L. Dungan of the United States Navy. Dungan became a Naval Aviator in 1942 and served on the Fight Lady. He received the Navy Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal, the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation for many strikes against enemy strongholds. He retired from combat when he suffered a wound in his left shoulder during a dogfight where he shot down four enemy fighters. Serving as the second featured speaker of the ceremony was Col. Jeffrey W. Fultz,
Chief of Staff, the 1st Marine Division. Fultz served in Operations Desert Shield/ Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Some of his personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Combat Action Ribbon. Veterans weren’t the only ones in attendance at the ceremony. Active duty Marines from the HMLA 469 Helicopter Squadron and the Second Battalion, Fourth Marines Infantry Division, the city’s two adopted units, were also present. Others in attendance included retired Army Reserve Col. Dolores J. Padgett and retired Marine Corps Gen. J.K. Davis. “I’m really happy about the ceremony,” Eggleston said. “It was a great opportunity for our younger service members to meet our older vets.” The event was co-sponsored by the City of San Clemente and the Heritage of San Clemente Foundation. Other supporters were the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce, the San Clemente Garden Club, the San Clemente Exchange Club, the Fisherman’s Restaurant and Glen’s Landscaping and Lighting. SC
News Next Door
$200,000 in bail and has pleaded not guilty. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 11 years and four months in state prison.
DANA POINT
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
BY STEVE SOHANAKI, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
S
WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING TOWNS
Brian Cleveland Dunn, 61, of Capistrano Beach was arraigned Nov. 3 on felony charges of misappropriation of public funds and embezzlement while employed by Vintage Marina Partners as the former general manager of the OC Dana Point Harbor’s commercial core, officials said. Dunn is accused of submitting more than $130,000 in falsified invoices to the county for reimbursement and making unauthorized purchases of more than $440,000 using the VMP company credit card, according to an Orange County District Attorney’s Office press release. Dunn is out of custody after posting Page 6
The developer of the San Juan Hotel & Villas project filed a lawsuit against the city of San Juan Capistrano on Nov. 3, challenging the decision that a general plan amendment is required to move the development forward. Joshua Host, principal of Urban Village, said after years of work and Planning Commission approval, city staff decided that the residential element of his project did not align with the city’s general plan. A general plan amendment failed to pass in August with a 2-2 council vote. A final public hearing for the boutique hotel and villas will take place at the Nov. 18 City Council meeting, beginning at 6 p.m. www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
A New Gateway
tenants—to move the project forward. There are still several issues to be decided, Nicholas said. Neither property owner has submitted plans for signage for the property, though there are city standards that must be adhered to, including restrictions on the use of pole signs.
Plaza work could provide a look at development under city’s new general plan BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
W
hile there is still a ways to go in the process, there’s now a light at the end of the tunnel for new tenants and major improvements for the former Kmart Plaza on Camino de Estrella. And city staff says the city’s new general plan potentially provides a greater backbone for similar developments in the future. Work on the development could essentially transform the plaza into a bright new city gateway that exemplifies the city’s signature architectural style. The proposal, the initial phase of which was approved by the Planning Commission last month, would see the current facility, which was vacated by Kmart in January, be reworked into three separate stores, sharing variations of Spanish architectural style, with red-tile roofs and white stucco finishes. The three new tenants in the facility include Sports Authority, which will be housed in the section nearest Interstate 5, Stein Mart and grocer Sprouts, which will be located on the seaward portion of the building. The Sports Authority site will also include a copper dome, similar to the final project at Ralphs on El Camino Real. Sprouts will include a red tile roof tower that is reminiscent of the towers at the Miramar Theater. The second phase of the project is scheduled to go before the planning commission at its next meeting, Nov. 12. The second phase tentatively includes work on all remaining buildings in the shopping center with the exception of Citibank. This includes the space formerly occupied by Big Lots, but also the buildings currently occupied by a number of businesses on the west side of the development. While the Big Lots facility will get a new tenant, the remainder of the buildings will all receive a white stucco facelift. Operating businesses should be able to remain open during the facade work. CHANGING INITIAL PLANS Sean Nicholas, the city’s planner involved with the project, said the project
The former Kmart site has been completely empty since January 2014. The owner and city have been working closely to transform the façade for a number of new tenants. Photo: Jim Shilander
has moved relatively quickly. “Our first interactions came in July,” Nicholas said. “They originally came to us with a very modern design.” That design, however, did not fit with the city’s new general plan, massed by the city council earlier this year, which is now being codified into the city’s zoning ordinances. Those new rules, Community Development Director Jim Holloway said, allowed the city to go back to the applicant and say they needed a new design. “They had hired a really good architectural team, but they were all new to San Clemente,” Holloway said. “The general plan is supposed to clarify what architectural styles are supposed to go where. We used that to give them really clear guidance.” Holloway said the applicants were also concerned about putting the project together quickly. “Their main concern was that they wanted to get going very quickly, which is something we hear more often than not,” Holloway said. “This was driven by the tenants, who wanted to meet certain timelines.” This time, he said, the city actually drew up a formal contract between the city and the owners and architects. The contract contains a timeline for both sides. If submissions were made by certain dates by the applicants, the city would then turn them around for review at the closest possible date. “So far it’s gone really well,” Holloway said. Nicholas said in his work with the developers he’s seen a real willingness to work within the city’s framework and make the plaza, which sits only a few blocks
from the city’s border with the Capistrano Beach neighborhood of Dana Point. By tying the entire structure more closely to San Clemente visually, he said, the owners of the plaza hope to keep and attract new tenants, as well as new customers throughout the city. The combination of the contract and the clear guidelines, Holloway said, allowed the architects to make four major design changes in a short period of time, about three weeks. The owner of the former Kmart site, Joe Kornwasser, said the original design was driven by the desires of tenants, but said working with the city convinced both him and the tenants that a change was the right move. “Working with the city helped us to convince the tenants that it would be helpful to have something the community wants,” Kornwasser said. Architect David Anderson said the close contact of all parties led to the quick turnaround. “Sean has frankly been remarkable in helping to get this done in a timely manner,” Anderson said. “It’s been an extremely helpful and positive experience. We have something that’s going to be an exemplary example of Spanish architecture.” The building was constructed in 1978 as a Kmart and included a long lease. Kornwasser said his company actually paid the retailer to get them out of the lease in order to redevelop the site. Nicholas noted that because the center has sat empty for a substantial period, it provided extra incentive for all parties— the city, property owners and potential
NEW GUIDELINES HELP SET STANDARD In the city’s former codes, there were architectural overlays mandating Spanish style in only a few sections of the city, such as in the downtown T-zone and North Beach. In other areas, the city has allowed for different architectural designs. Now, a style that is at least somewhat similar to the city’s Spanish Colonial Revival heritage is the standard for new projects in all but one of the city’s “gateway” areas, the exception being the “surf zone” in south San Clemente. “There’s been a question as to where Spanish goes,” Holloway said. “All that’s been cleared to a much greater level. A lot of time and effort was taken into making it clear. Wherever they come in, we know what to tell them and the community knows what to expect. In every way, I think it’s a win for everybody.” Nicholas noted that the new Spanish look of the plaza, to go along with the Spanish-style architecture planned for the Outlets at San Clemente Plaza off of Vista Hermosa, would help create a uniform vision of what San Clemente is as drivers travel south along Interstate 5. Design Review Subcommittee chairman Barton Crandell said the major factor in making things work so well was the willingness of both sides to work together to provide a big improvement to the area. Crandell echoed Holloway’s sentiments about having codified support for what the city wanted. “It’s easier for the subcommittee to stand up and say that this is what we want,” Crandell said. “We can give some leeway but it has to reflect the character of the Spanish Village.” Holloway said his department has tried to keep past processes in mind during this one. Nicholas, for example, had previous experience working on the Ralphs project on El Camino Real, which was extremely controversial in its initial phases because of its proposed size and scope. “All past processes and public meetings inform the staff, inform the decision makers and inform the applicants as to what to do and what not to do in the future,” Holloway said. “I think this was a good example of learning from what did and didn’t go well.” SC
An architectural elevation of the proposal that would transform the Kmart facility.
San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
Page 8
www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY CATHERINE MANSO
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, November 11 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Mira Del Sur, 100 Block (3:32 p.m.) A caller said he saw a man “hunkered down” between his home and another nearby residence. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Mira Adelante, 0 Block (8:50 a.m.) A caller said an apparently homeless man was looking under a mobile home in a parking space next to theirs. They thought the man had crawled under the motor home and said they could “hear noises.”
Monday, November 10 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Canasta, 600 Block (9:45 p.m.) A caller reported “gangster looking people” in an
apartment complex laundry room. The caller said they thought they could hear them trying to get coins from the washers/dryers but could only hear things. ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY Chiquita, 100 Block (12:34 p.m.) A contractor reported a man running out of an apartment, collapsing and having a seizure. FRAUD REPORT La Esperanza, 200 Block (8:40 a.m.) A man received a call from someone claiming he was from the public defender’s office and demanding $4,500 in order to retrieve his granddaughter from jail. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Frontera/Avenida Pico (7:57 a.m.) A balding man wearing baggy pants was seen taking pictures in the bushes.
Sunday, November 9 DISTURBANCE Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (11:55 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for three to four people drinking in a black truck. DISTURBANCE- GANG Calle Campana, 600 Block (7:09 p.m.) A 17-year-old boy told authorities that three men and one woman followed him and asked what gang he “rolls with.” DISTURBANCE Via Villena, 0 Block (6:59
p.m.) A woman reported her 34-year-old friend for staying at her home and not paying rent. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Camino De Estrella, 500 Block (1:38 p.m.) An occupant of a gray Ford truck dumped multiple mattresses on the former Kmart property. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Pico, 900 Block (1:15 p.m.) A man used a knife to open various items inside Walmart. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Salvador, 700 Block (12:45 p.m.) A caller reported four juveniles playing with what the caller thought might be a hand gun. CITIZEN ASSIST Marquita, 200 Block (3:39 a.m.) A man reported his drunken exgirlfriend was hiding in the bushes.
Saturday, November 8 DISTURBANCE- MECHANICAL Via Presa, 500 Block (7:07 p.m.) Sheriff’s deputies were informed of a group of juveniles racing with motorized bikes but without helmets. WELFARE CHECK Linda Lane, 400 Block (6:48 p.m.) A caller reported a shaking man on the bench. He was described to be wearing a white T-shirt and shorts.
DISTURBANCE Del Gado Road, 200 Block (4:36 p.m.) A male caller was dissatisfied with the officers who tried to assist him. He called 9-1-1 again for more officers. CITIZEN ASSIST Camino De Estrella, 300 Block (2:42 p.m.) A woman told authorities her neighbor was using an electric broom to push dirt onto her property.
Friday, November 7 DISTURBANCE- MUSIC OR PARTY Calle Amistad, 100 Block (10:44 p.m.) Dispatch received notice of a woman screaming at a loud party. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 2000 Block (9:27 p.m.) A man and woman argued in a room at the Budget Lodge. A boy was seen on the ground and it’s unclear if the boy was hurt. The woman screamed for the police. CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Vaquero, 400 Block (6:58 p.m.) A woman claims she was kicked out of the Beachfire restaurant by the owner. The woman demanded deputies. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 100 Block (10:10 a.m.) A woman with a mohawk hairstyle, wearing jeans and described as being in her 20s, was seen walking down the street topless.
SC SOAPBOX San Clemente
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
GUEST OPINION: Lew’s Views by Lew Avera
San Clemente: City of World Class Music Recent concert experience confirms city’s status as a great music venue
W
hen most of us think about what sets San Clemente apart as a world class city, we think about such things as our special Spanish architecture and culture, our preserved village by the sea, our world class surfing environment, climate, etc. Seldom would we envision San Clemente as a city of world class music. However, this is changing. Last Thursday night, Nov. 6, I attended a beautiful concert at Casa Romantica as part of its 2014-2015 Casa Captivating Season. The Royce String Quartet played two string quartets from the Romantic era of music, one by Robert Schumann (1810-1856) and one by Edvard Grieg (1843-1907). The quartet, formed in 2012 at UCLA, consists of three exquisite young women and one young man, all in their mid- to late 20s, playing two violins, one viola, and one string bass. They have performed in other parts of the United Sates and abroad, and have won several competitions. Everything about their performance was “world-class.” First, music from the Romantic era is generally not simple finger/toe tapping sing along music as we might hear on the iPod. It is highly structured and complex, but absolutely beautiful and captivating when heard. The quartet was seated in a small semi-circle facing the approximately 50 attendees. I was seated in the center
Letters to the Editor PREDICTION: TRAFFIC TROUBLE AHEAD WILLIS FRICK, San Clemente
Sometime next fall there will be a massive traffic jam at the southbound Vista Hermosa off ramp from Interstate 5. About that time the outlet stores will open and traffic will dramatically increase. The off-ramp, which used to have two lanes leading into three turn lanes and is now one narrow lane and a tiny three lane merge area onto Vista Hermosa, will be entirely inadequate. Traffic will back onto I-5, there will be a great jam and perhaps a few accidents. I hope the city (outlet stores) and the state (I-5 improvements) can coordinate their work and avoid a mess. It looks to me that there is room for a wider exit lane and more space for traffic to spread out onto the three turn lanes. San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
facing them and only 10 feet away. The most distant seat was about 20 feet. With this close proximity it was so easy, in some ways, to essentially feel a part of the quartet. For the entire length of LEW’S VIEWS the program, the four By Lew Avera were so dynamic I was unable to take my eyes off of them. Again, the quality and beauty of the music was emotionally and visually captivating. The second perspective that I developed was about the personal and teamwork attributes of the individual members, which are so important to their success. In a music group without a visible conductor, a member of the group plays that role without a display of such to the audience. However, with my experience, I knew who had this role and was able to follow their interactions with each other. The group’s continuing eye contact with the leader, with their music and among each other was amazing. And beyond the eye contact, as expressed by their facial expressions and body language, their emotional connectivity with each other was warm and wonderful. These factors also captured me emotionally for the evening. At the conclusion, after most attendees had departed, I had the privilege of meet-
ing and talking with the four. I complimented them on every aspect of their performance. They were such handsome and mature young people, so engaging, poised and gracious. Being a fitness buff, I also compared their performance to a stiff workout at the fitness center. They agreed, holding a violin to ones chin with one arm for close to an hour is demanding and that they experience challenging physical demands during a performance along with the musical demands. I wish every young person seeking a career in music, as well as their parents, could have seen this extraordinary performance. Berenika Schmitz, Kelly Parsley, and their staff at Casa Romantica deserve thanks for developing the wonderful upcoming 2014-2015 season of music. I encourage all citizens of San Clement to take advantage of the world-class music scheduled there. Lew Avera is a retired career officer, Lt. Col., U.S. Marine Corps. He has been a director of the Talega HOA since 2003 and served on the San Clemente Planning Commission from 2005 to 2013. 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
WARD’S ELECTION AND DAHL’S “SOUR GRAPES”
Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso.
TOM BARNES, San Clemente
By refusing to acknowledge Kathy Ward’s hard-earned victory, Jim Dahl showed “no class” in his election defeat last Tuesday. His dismissal of her efforts with the remark, “... they’re a machine, and they got their candidate elected” belies the fact that Kathy’s victory was due to “retail, grass roots politics” and Dahl’s mythical attribution of it to some mysterious “machine” is way out of line. Kathy won because she campaigned door to door, talking with residents about their concerns and her vision for the future. She won by outshining Mr. Dahl in the five joint appearances or candidates debates. She won by getting her yard signs placed legally on resident’s property, not illegally on public or association property as Dahl did. She won by meeting the public in private homes, in a series of “meet and greet” appearances, often with other candidates. She won by going to all the people, not just depending on the
City Councilwoman-elect Kathy Ward will be the guest this week to discuss her priorities for her new term. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Jim Shilander every Friday at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. All are welcome.
powerful elites. She won by sign waving with her supporters the three nights before the election. In short, she won the old fashioned way—she earned it. Those of us who worked hard for Kathy’s election are not machine politicians. We believe she will represent us by listening and acting in our best interest to maintain our village heritage and build a better San Clemente for the future.
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624 phone 949.388.7700 fax 949.388.9977 www.sanclementetimes.com
HOW TO REACH US CITY EDITOR Jim Shilander, 949.388.7700, x109 jshilander@sanclementetimes.com ADVERTISING PRINT AND ONLINE
Susie Lantz, 949.388.7700, x111 slantz@sanclementetimes.com DISTRIBUTION RACKS, DRIVEWAYS, SUBSCRIPTIONS
Tricia Zines, 949.388.7700, x107 tzines@sanclementetimes.com BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER Alyssa Garrett, 949.388.7700, x100 agarrett@sanclementetimes.com
PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett
> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)
EDITORIAL
> Debra Wells (San Juan Capistrano)
Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne
Real Estate Sales Manager > Michele Reddick
City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander
OPERATIONS
City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jerrell Sports Editor > Steve Breazeale Special Projects Editor > Andrea Papagianis ART/DESIGN
Business Operations Manager > Alyssa Garrett Accounting & Distribution Manager > Tricia Zines SPECIAL THANKS Robert Miller, Jonathan Volzke
Senior Designer > Jasmine Smith ADVERTISING/MULTIMEDIA MARKETING Associate Publisher > Lauralyn Loynes
Finance Director > Mike Reed
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Jacqueline DeMarco, Catherine Manso, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent
San Clemente Times, Vol. 9, Issue 46. 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 2014. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
FOLLOW THE SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
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.
Page 10
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC GETTING OUT San Clemente
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
On Stage at the Coach House: Minnie Driver
EDITOR’S PICK
What’s going on in and around town this week COMPILED BY STAFF
Thursday | 13 FREE SADDLEBACK CONCERT SERIES 1 p.m. Traditional blues duo, Sheriffs of Schroedingham, perform as part of the school music department’s free concert series, every Thursday in Fine Arts Room 101 and the McKinney Theatre. 28000 Marguerite Parkway, Mission Viejo. For more info, visit www.saddleback.edu. ALMOST, MAINE 7 p.m. San Clemente High School presents “Almost, Maine” a play with a rotating cast of 19, exploring love. Tickets are $10-$12. Friday and Saturday shows at same time. San Clemente High School, 700 Avenida Pico, www.sctritons.com. OPEN MIC NIGHT 8 p.m. Event spotlighting local talent and area nonprofits. Free. Barnoa Wine Bar, 831 Via Suerte, Suite 106, San Clemente, 949.388.4378, www.barnoawinebar.com.
Friday | 14 LUNCH WITH LEAGUE Noon. The League of Women Voters of Orange Coast’s Lunch with League will present Laura’s Law – Bridging Community Protection with Severe Mental Illness by Elliott Wilson. A Q & A will follow. RSVP. Call Barb Wood 208.284.9167 or email to barbj@sbcglobal.net. $20. Marie Callender’s Restaurant, 15363 Culver Dr., Irvine, www.orangecoast.ca.lwvnet.org. NORTH BEACH ART WALK 6 p.m. The Art Walk will begin at Artwistic Creations (near El Portal) and progress down the hill on North El Camino Real. Participating Businesses include: Artwistic Creations, T. Patterson Surfboards, The Mint Gallery, Bull Taco, San Clemente Art Supply AKA Green Flash Gallery, The Riders Club, Noll Surfboards Gallery. After party at Knuckleheads (9 p.m. to 2 a.m.). BAYOU BROTHERS 7 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com. LIVE MUSIC AT OC TAVERN 9:30 p.m. Live music every Friday and Saturday night. Free. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com. San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
Minnie Driver. Courtesy photo
Melanie Tumminia and Anthony Yuro in the Cabrillo Playhouse production of “Greetings!” Photo: Courtesy
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15: GREETINGS! 8 p.m. A comedic look at the family stresses and fun of the holiday season. Friday and Saturday. 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets $20, $15 for students. Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.
Saturday | 15 MARINE MAMMAL CRUISE 10 a.m. Join the Ocean Institute aboard the 70-foot RV Sea Explorer for an opportunity to see whales, fish, dolphins, sea lions and other wildlife along the Southern California coast. $35 for adults, $22 for children 4-12. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. CHERYL SILVERSTEIN 8 p.m. Singing pop, jazz and blues classics. Pierside, 610 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.210.9080, www.singoutloud.net.
Sunday | 16 SAN CLEMENTE FARMERS MARKET 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Bundles of flowers, fresh produce and much more every Sunday on Avenida Del Mar. Rain or shine. BIG FAT STEVE 1:30 p.m. Live music at The Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.3188.
Monday | 17 BLOOD DRIVE 8:15 a.m.-6:15 p.m. The city of Dana Point is sponsoring a blood drive. All participants will receive two tickets to the Laugh Factory and two tickets to the Grammy Museum at L.A. Live and a $5 coupon for Acapulco Restaurants. Make an appointment to donate at www.redcrossblood.org
and enter sponsor code CODP. Dana Point City Hall, City Council Chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.248.3579, www.danapoint.org. MOMMY MOVIE MONDAYS 10 a.m. Parents are welcome to bring their baby to the theater every Monday at Krikorian Theaters. 641 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7610, www.kptmovies.com.
Tuesday | 18 FREE RABIES VACCINE 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Bring your dog to the Dana Point Community/Senior Center for a rabies vaccine. Dana Point and San Clemente residents will receive a free vaccine when they purchase a new or renew a license. $5 for non-residents. Microchips and DHPP and Bordetella shots are also available. 34052 Del Obispo, Dana Point, 949.248.3530. UNDERSTANDING HEALTHCARE CHOICES 6 p.m. Healthcare consultant Beau Donegan presents a free event to help people looking to get information on their health insurance and upcoming changes to the law related to insurance coverage. RSVP to beau@beaudonegan.com. San Clemente Presbyterian Church, 119 Avenida De la Estrella, 949.291.7079.
Wednesday | 19 LIVE OAK REVUE 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.
Page 12
BY CATHERINE MANSO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
A
cademy Award winner and singer-songwriter Minnie Driver is performing at the Coach House on Wednesday, Nov. 26. The popular television and movie actress has found some time away from her schedule to perform shows for her newly released album, “Ask Me to Dance.” The album features similar styles and a new take on some wellknown songs by Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, Elliott Smith and many more. She’ll not only be performing her new material, but some songs from her previous albums ”Everything I’ve Got in My Pocket” and “Seastories” with her band of Los Angeles-based musicians, Tired Pony. “We’ve all known each other for many, many years. They all play with different bands but we come together to make records and tour as much we can,” Driver said. “My band allows me to sing what is more natural for me. I’ve had vocal training when I was younger but that’s nothing when you’re writing songs and singing from your heart.” Don’t miss Driver’s first ever appearance at the Coach House, 33157 Camino Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano, and be delighted by how well her musicianship matches up to her acclaimed acting talent. Tickets cost $15. Dinner reservations with priority seating are also available. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. For tickets or more information, call 949.496.8930 or go to www.thecoachhouse.com. SC
For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com. Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com www.sanclementetimes.com
SC SC LIVING San Clemente
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
Business Beat News from San Clemente’s business community COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
New Openings BEACHFIRE PIZZA 626 Avenida Victoria 949.361.0892, www.beachfire.com Already a familiar name in town, BeachFire has expanded its offerings closer to the beach after taking over the former Cassano’s Pizza, creating BeachFire Pizza in the heart of the Pier Bowl. Kelly Abney, marketing director for BeachFire, said the company was looking to expand its hold in the city while doing something a little bit different from its other establishments. “We were looking to do something a little bit smaller scale and something connected to the community,” Abney said. “It just so happened that the space came open at the right time.” While owner Barry Pierce had not done pizza before at other restaurants, he has owned a number of different types of
eateries before, she said, so taking on a new challenge wasn’t something he was afraid to do. “He kind of looked at it as a new challenge, but not something he thought he couldn’t do,” Abney said. Abney said BeachFire hopes to continue a tradition Cassano’s started by employing and supporting people from within the community. “They’d already established such a great place, Barry’s just looking to continue that and only add to it as San Clemente grows,” Abney said. Having just finished the restaurant’s first summer, Abney said that after overcoming some initial confusion about the changeover, people realized that there were positive aspects of the change and were glad to see many of the traditions continue. The restaurant has recently launched a new menu that includes flatbreads and fresh salads, to go along with traditional pies. PURE. LOVE. YOGA. 415 E. Avenida Pico, Suite M 949.492.5048, www.pureloveyogasc.com Pure. Love. Yoga. creative director Laura Love says the ethos behind the new San Clemente studio is creating a community.
“There are a lot of yoga studios in Orange County, but there aren’t a whole bunch of them that really involve the community,” Love said. “They’re places where you go in, do your class and leave. We want to create a space where people can gather and hold events, like a local artist fair.” The studio also makes a deliberate effort to be eco-friendly, she said. The only beverages sold come in glass bottles. Bathrooms have cloth towels as opposed to paper ones. The studio also makes an effort, whenever possible, to buy from local merchants. Owner Angela Treaster had been a teacher at the studio in a previous incarnation, before deciding to take it over herself. Love said building a community includes work within the business. She works directly with teachers to provide feedback on their classes and developing programs. Teachers are incentivized to find ways to improve as well. The studio is holding a fundraiser later this month in partnership with CB Cycle Barn to raise money for the My Own Two Hands Foundation, which works to build sustainable children’s projects in Africa. The “Trigiveathon” will be held Nov. 29, beginning at noon with an hour-long spin
San Clemente Goes Down East ‘Almost, Maine’ marks new beginning for SCHS Theater BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T
he newest theatrical production at San Clemente High School is giving more students a chance to get involved in all aspects of the production. “Almost, Maine,” with nine vignettes about romantic entanglements in a small Maine town, is the first play at the school for new director Daniel Ingraham. But it’s not his first go-round with “Almost, Maine.” Ingraham directed “Almost” at his previous position in Alhambra, two years ago. The show has become one of the most produced plays for schools, he said. “One of the things that makes the play doable for high schools is that there’s nine vignettes,” Ingraham said. “It lends itself to after school rehearsals. It’s not so heavy and there isn’t a big through line over and over. It enables kids to really get into the
San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
Josh Pavlis, Julia Becker and Delaney Marchant in a scene from ‘Almost, Maine’ at San Clemetne High School. Tickets for the show, which runs Thursday through Saturday, are available at www.sctritons.com. Photo: Kelly Mitchell
material and into the acting aspects of it, since they’re just doing one long 10-minute scene.” The play’s format also lends itself to giving more students an opportunity to shine, Ingraham said. Rather than relying on one or two lead actors to shoulder a larger burden of the production, more students get cast, all with approximately the same amount of lines to memorize. Cast members Evan Harris and Korina Camel said the show is very different from anything they’d performed before. “None of the scenes correlate, there’s
different stories,” Camel said. “There’s two different people in each scene.” Harris said many of the vignettes take ordinary people and force them to deal with extraordinary events around them. While the vignettes are all about the same length, Harris said, in terms of content, they ran the gamut, in terms of the emotions being expressed. “Lots of them are really happy, finding out they love this person who they’ve known for a really long time,” Harris said. “Others are sadder and focus on that side of love too.”
Page 14
Pure. Love. Yoga. creative director Laura Love said the studio tries to create a community feel for clients and teachers alike. Photo: Jim Shilander
class at CB Cycle Barn, followed by a threemile run to the yoga studio and a one-hour class there. Registration for the event is $50. Registration information can be found by calling 949.291.6582 or visiting www.trigiveathon.eventbrite.com. SC
Camel said she was challenged by her part, since her character was in a verbally abusive relationship and she had never experienced anything like that in her life. “It was hard for me to take on that persona,” Camel said, adding that she sought out television and movie depictions of women in that situation to try and inform her portrayal. Harris’ character is in a bad marriage. Having not been in that situation himself, he said he tried to draw on moments where he’d had to argue with people he loved. In a change brought in by Ingraham, students are now handling more of the technical aspects of the show themselves. Rather than relying on parents to build the sets, students have done so themselves, with some help. Trevor Smith is entering his second year on the crew. Previously, he said, crew members were really only responsible for moving the sets around during breaks. Now, he said there’s a lot more to do. “We learned a lot more about power tools and making stuff in general, a lot of carpentry,” Smith said. Many of the sets built by students are double-sided, Smith said, allowing the same pieces to be used for more than one scene. Ingraham said while he loves having help from the community and parents, he feels students learn more by doing more themselves. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING
The courtyard of the Casino San Clemente was turned into an outdoor tasting room complete with furniture allowing attendees to converse.
Jeffrey and Stacey Lloyd of San Clemetne Wine were among those serving up their wares.
Rick and Susan Anderson of the Tropicana Inn flank Beth Apodaca.
‘Taste’ Highlights City’s Food Scene PHOTOS AND TEXT BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
F
oodies and wine connoisseurs got an up close and personal sampling of the wares of some of the city’s top restaurants, wineries and breweries
Friday at the San Clemente Chamber of Commerce’s 24th Annual Taste of San Clemente. More than 250 people enjoyed dancing, socializing, bidding on silent auction items and nibbling on delicious food. SC
Oscar Perez and Stefanie Stella work to serve up Nick’s short rib and mashed potatoes.
Page 16
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake
To Marry or Not? For older singles it can be an economic decision
S
ingles who are fortunate enough to find a mate later in life often wrestle with the question, “Should we get married?” Nancy, not her real name, 65, lives in south Orange County. She was a stay-athome mom for 25 years. She divorced in 1996 and has not remarried. Her ex-husband passed away in 2009. She receives his Social Security benefits. She emailed, “I have a man I’d like to spend the rest of my life with. Is there a way to be together with my guy without legally marrying so I don’t lose SS benefits from my ex-husband?” In the 21 years I have written columns about finding love after 50, I am amazed at how often the marriage question comes up. Here is what other singles have said about the topic. Annie said, “I met my partner five years ago. We are in a totally committed relationship and living together. We are continually surprised at the number of our friends who ask, ‘When is he going to make me legal?’” “We don’t feel the need to be married. Our kids don’t care one way or the other. We have designed a ring for me. I will wear it on my wedding ring finger. We are turning 65 this year; we have earned the right to do as we wish.” Maria wrote, “My cousin, a widow of many years in her mid-60s, committed to her companion who she lives with. He gave her a diamond-band ring and they consider themselves married. She did it this way so she could keep her social security and her sense of financial independence.” Jennifer added, “Older people have often spent a lifetime working and accumulating assets and they frequently like to keep their finances separate. Many want their children or grandchildren to be their sole heirs. Marriage or re-marriage can interfere with this inheritance plan or complicate it. Sometimes, it’s simpler just to remain single, and live together. “Older couples who live together benefit from the closeness and companionship of
a live-in partner, and probably live longer too. They can pool their money and talents, which means they will probably enjoy an enhanced lifestyle together. Those, who for religious or other reasons, are uncomfortable with this ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 arrangement, can still get By Tom Blake married.” Marcia stated, “My friend Russ and I have not married for a myriad of reasons. We caution couples in their sixties concerning marriage as they have had a lifetime of building obligations and acquiring assets and responsibilities.” “I have known couples who have religious ceremonies under God and outside the law and they are also happy. Some couples keep their houses (highly recommended) and some buy a new one with a tenancy agreement in case one dies. We are not in our youthful building stage and cannot afford to make serious financial errors.” Joan, a family counselor, said, “Hospitals will not listen to anything a boyfriend or girlfriend has to say. They only take instructions from a legally married spouse.” My lawyer advised me that an unmarried person, who wants a partner to be able to make medical decisions for him or her, needs to have a durable power of attorney for health care, properly prepared and executed, usually by a lawyer. Tom’s comment to Nancy: To protect your social security benefits, don’t remarry. You might check with the Social Security Administration just to be sure of your rights. Then, if you want a non-binding commitment ceremony, and to wear a ring, and live together—whatever you choose—do so happily knowing you are within the law. 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
Sudoku BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:
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 San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
Page 19
SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Triton Report
the secondary and big-play capability on offense. For those who can’t make it to the game, the Friday Night Live broadcast team will be live steaming the game online. Visit www.schsfnl.com for a live video feed.
BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
Girls Tennis Playoff Run Ends in Second Round
For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School fall sports teams, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.
The San Clemente girls tennis team was able to breeze past South Pasadena in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1 playoffs on Nov. 5 but came up against eighth-ranked Santa Margarita in the second round and lost, 11-7. The Tritons season was highlighted by a first-place finish in the South Coast League. It was the first time the program claimed a share of the league title since 1978.
Defensive Display Pushes Tritons Volleyball Past Chargers in CIF Two months ago, the San Clemente girls volleyball team lost a closely contested five-set match to Edison in a nonleague contest. At the time, Tritons first-year head coach Tom Beard realized his team needed to fortify their defense and blocking efforts if they were to improve and make a run in postseason play. A lot has changed in those two months. The Tritons played host to Edison in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1AA playoffs on Nov. 12 and rather than go the distance with the Chargers, San Clemente relied on an efficient, defensive-minded approach in a three set 25-14, 25-23, 25-16 victory. San Clemente will play Lakewood, the No. 2 team in the division, in the second round on Nov. 13. San Clemente’s back line defense and presence at the net neutralized the outside hitters of Edison, never letting the lead grow to more than five points all night, allowing the Tritons hard swinging offense to take control. The Tritons defense recorded 70 digs, highlighted by Tatum Harvey’s team-high 18 digs, which fueled the Tritons transition game. Sophomore middle blocker Cassie Stewart and junior opposite Marie Paris led the defensive effort up front. Stewart, who had six blocks, and Paris teamed up for a tandem block that ended the first set and closed out an 8-0 run by the Tritons. “At the beginning of the season our defense wasn’t strong. We focused on it and it showed tonight,” Beard said. “We had some really good defensive plays. It was solid all the way around. The blocking was better than it’s ever been. I think we’re on the right trajectory.” Edison came out swinging in the second set, taking a 6-1 lead before San Clemente’s junior outside hitter Cali Hoye took over. Hoye recorded four of the Tritons next eight unanswered points to help retake the lead and control of the set. Hoye had seven kills in the second set and finished the night with a team-high 18 kills. San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
San Clemente senior Natalie Knauf had four kills in the Tritons three-set sweep of Edison in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 1AA playoffs Nov. 11. Photo: Steve Breazeale
Paris contributed a game-high 39 assists. San Clemente took advantage of several Edison serving errors midway through the third set, which fueled a 4-0 run that gave the Tritons a commanding 16-10 lead.
Football Claims Outright League Title, Preps for Playoffs The San Clemente High School football team inched closer to their goal of redemption on Nov. 7 with a convincing 56-15 road victory over Aliso Niguel. Not only did the win ensure an outright Sea View League title for the Tritons, it solidified their second-place standing in the CIF-SS Southwestern Division. At this time last season, the Tritons were owners of a 2-8 overall record. The Tritons (9-1, 4-0 league) entered the week ranked No. 2 behind Corona del Mar and remained in that position when the CIF-SS offices issued their playoff brackets Nov. 9. San Clemente will host Fullerton on Nov. 14 in the first round at 7 p.m. San Clemente scored the first points of the game against Aliso Niguel without its offense on the field. Sophomore Brandon Reaves returned a Wolverines punt 56 yards for a touchdown less than two minutes into the contest to give his team an early 7-0 lead. The Tritons offense would score two more times in the opening quarter, on a nine-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Sam Darnold to Vlad Dzhabiyev
and a one-yard Dzhabiyev run, and got a touchdown out of its defense when Liam Eldridge intercepted a Nick Chapman pass and returned it 57 yards for a score. Darnold broke off a 14-yard scoring run to open up the second half to take a commanding 35-8 lead. Darnold was especially effective in the first half, completing 16 of 18 passes for 225 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. Darnold was taken out of the game in the third quarter and finished the night with 256 yards and three touchdowns, completing 18 of 20 passes. Darnold’s last throw of the night was a five-yard touchdown to Dzhabiyev that capped a six-play scoring drive, putting the Tritons on top 49-8 early in the third. If Aliso Niguel was able to pull off an upset win over the Tritons, San Clemente would have split the league title with Trabuco Hills. “We didn’t want to share any of that trophy with Trabuco Hills so it was a good team win,” Darnold said. Fullerton (5-5, 2-3) earned an at-large berth into the playoffs after finishing fourth in the competitive Freeway League. The Indians offense seems balanced on paper. Senior quarterback Andrew Tavarez and receiver Kaene Soto have been an effective combination all season and Fullerton’s group of running backs get a healthy amount of carries per game. The Tritons easily defeated the Wolverines with standout cornerback and receiver Jake Russell out with an injury. He has been deemed day to day for Friday’s game by head coach Jaime Ortiz. Russell provides the Tritons with extra security in
Page 20
Loss to Chargers Hands Tritons Water Polo Third-Place League Finish The San Clemente boys water polo team’s final game on Nov. 6 against El Toro decided who would finish second and third in the competitive South Coast League. San Clemente held a slim 5-4 lead over the Chargers at halftime, but watched as El Toro came storming back in the final half to win, 10-7. El Toro outscored San Clemente 6-2 in the final two quarters to win the match and finish second in league. The Tritons settled for a third-place finish. The match also had an impact on the team’s seeding in the playoffs, which begin this week. The ninth-ranked Tritons will travel to play No. 5 San Marcos in the first round of the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs on Nov. 13. Had the Tritons defeated El Toro, they would have likely played Damien, the second-place team out of the Baseline League, in the first round. Instead, San Clemente must play a first-place team and a highly ranked divisional opponent. If the Tritons advance past San Marcos, they will play the winner of Mira Costa/ Santiago-Corona in the quarterfinals on Nov. 15.
SC Boys Cross Country Takes Second in League Junior Connor Dunne paced the San Clemente boys cross country team to a second-place finish at the Sea View League finals at Irvine Regional Park on Nov. 5. Dunne finished the course in a time of 15:32 to pick up crucial points for the Tritons. Junior Sean Riley and senior (Cont. on page 23) www.sanclementetimes.com
SPORTS & OUTDOORS Triton Report (Cont. from page 20) Matthew Shelton finished 11th and 12th, respectively. Senior Joshua Vollebregt (14th) and junior Jeremy Brady (15th) round out the top finishers for the Tritons, who finished behind first-place Tesoro. The Tritons will compete in the CIF-SS
San Clemente senior cross country runner Katie Carroll finished 13th at the South Coast League finals on Nov. 6. Photo: John Carroll
Prelims at Mt. SAC on Nov. 15.
Tritons Girls X-C Places Fifth in League, Advance to CIF The San Clemente girls cross country team will find themselves in a familiar place Saturday, Nov. 15. The team will compete on the well-known Mt. SAC cross country course in the CIF-SS Prelims for the ninth consecutive year. The Tritons advanced to postseason competition yet again, despite finishing fifth at the South Coast League finals on Nov. 6 at Irvine Regional Park. Senior Katie Carroll finished 13th at league finals with a time of 18:15. Senior Kelsey Carroll finished 19th and sophomore Brooke Eisele placed 22nd for the Tritons. The South Coast League is among the most competitive leagues in Orange County and features three teams, including the Tritons, ranked inside the Division 1 top-13. San Clemente is currently ranked in a tie for 13th. The other two teams in the league, Capistrano Valley and Tesoro, are ranked second and 10th, respectively, in Division 2. The strong mix of teams in the league they compete in and their year-long performance earned the Tritons a postseason berth. The top-5 teams at the CIF-SS Prelims will advance to the CIF-SS Finals.
The San Clemente Surf Boys U10 soccer team won the Coast Soccer League on Nov. 8. Courtesy photo
Scoreboard SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
YOUTH SOCCER The San Clemente Surf Boys U10 soccer team won the Coast Soccer League Nov. 8 after notching their 12th victory
of the year. The team finished the season with a 12-1 overall record and has scored 65 goals with one game remaining. The team includes: Isaac Nixon, Rory Catsimanes, Cooper Scibelli, Kian Jadbabaei, Ridge Hughes, David Sotelo, Peyton Guarino, Mason Scoffield, Luke Smith and Ryan Goodwin. SC
SC n te S a n C le m e
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@sanclementetimes.com
San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
Page 24
www.sanclementetimes.com
SC n te S a n C le m e
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@sanclementetimes.com
San Clemente Times November 13–19, 2014
Page 25
www.sanclementetimes.com
Locals Only
BUSINESS DIRECTORY AIR CONDITIONING
Oasis Heating & Air
31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com
APPLIANCES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
APPLIANCE SERVICES & REPAIRS
ASAP Appliance Service
3200 Legendario, 949.361.7713, www.asapapplianceservice.com
ART GALLERIES
San Clemente Art Association 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.492.7175, www.scartgallery.com
ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST
Village Books
99 Avenida Serra, 949.492.1114, www.DowntownSanClemente.com
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
GRAPHIC DESIGN
IMAGES/Creative Solutions
117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com
HAIR SALONS
Kreative Hair Design
173 Avenida Serra, 949.498.6245
Oasis Heating & Air
31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com
HOME DÉCOR CHIROPRACTIC
Thompson Chiropractic
629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.com
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
Lure of Chocolate, Gourmet Foods & Gift
949.439.1773, www.LureofChocolate.com
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate
99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com
CONCRETE
Costa Verde Landscape
License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
DENTISTS
William Brownson, D.D.S.
3553 Camino Mira Costa, Ste B, 949.493.2391, www.drbrownson.com
Eric Johnson, D.D.S.
647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, 949.493.9311, www.drericjohnson.com
Kristen Ritzau DDS
122 Avenida Cabrillo, 949.498.4110, www.KristenRitzauDDS.com
EDIBLE LANDSCAPING
Organics Out Back
949.354.2258, www.organicsoutback.com
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
LANDSCAPING
Costa Verde Landscape
License: 744797 (C-8 & C-27) 949.361.9656, www.costaverdelandscaping.com
MANAGEMENT - HOA
AMMCOR
910 Calle Negocio, Ste. 200, 949.661.7767, www.AMMCOR.com
MATTRESSES
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
MORTGAGES
Brian Wiechman, Equity Coast Mortgage A division of Pinnacle Capital Mortgage 949.533.9209, www.equitycoastmortgage.com
MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE
SC Rider Supply
520 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0521, www.scridersupply.com
MUSIC LESSONS
Danman’s Music School
949.496.6556, www.danmans.com
ELECTRICAL
Arcadia Electric
949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com
27134 Paseo Espada #B 203, 949.388.4888, www.printingoc.com
1201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 203, 949.492.3459
FURNITURE
Janet Poth - Violin & Viola
413 Calle Pueblo, 949.922.6388, janpoth@aol.com
PRINTING
Printing OC
Lange & Minnott
HEATING BOOKS
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT
REAL ESTATE At Thompson Chiropractic we utilize a variety of chiropractic techniques, physiotherapy modalities and soft tissue therapies to relieve your pain as fast as possible. Dr. Russell Thompson and his staff are committed to getting you back to the things you love. Schedule an appointment or walk in today. 629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.com
OFFICE FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
PAINTING
KC Painting & Decorating
3349 Paseo Halcon, 949.388.6829, www.bringcolorintoyourlife.com
PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD
1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.com
PEST CONTROL
Colony Termite Control
1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
PHARMACIES
Sea View Pharmacy
665 Camino De Los Mares, #101, 949.496.0123, www.seaviewpharmacy.com
PLUMBING
Bill Metzger Plumbing
929 Calle Negocio Suite D, 949.492.3558, www.billmetzgerplumbing.com
Chick’s Plumbing
949.496.9731, www.chicks-plumbing.com
POOL SERVICE, REPAIR, REMODEL
SC Pool & Spa Works
1311 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7665, www.scpoolworks.com
Radiant Pool & Spa Service Lic # 985800, 949.290.5616, www.radiantpoolservice.com
Antonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group San Clemente, 949.842.3631, www.forterealtygroup.com
Marcie George Star Real Estate South County
949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net
“Sandy & Rich” - ReMax
949.293.3236, www.sandyandrich.com
RESTAURANTS
Café Calypso
114 Avenida Del Mar #4, 949.366.9386
ROOFING CONTRACTORS
Jim Thomas Roofing
162 Calle de Industrias, 949.498.6204
SALONS
Salon Bamboo
150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com
CLASSIFIEDS Submit your classified ad at www.sanclementetimes.com
FITNESS EQUIPMENT PILATES REFORMER Black Aero pilates reformer. Folds up for easy storage. Great workout at home. $175. 949.533.9761
FOR SALE HARLEY HANDLEBARS Chrome, 8-inch, T Bars (drag specialties). Slight curve back. $70. Can send pictures. Text or call 949-633-3860 for more info.
GARAGE SALES GARAGE SALE Saturday, November 15th 8:00AM- 12:00PM. NO EARLYBIRDS!! On the loop,226 Avenida Lobeiro San Clemente. Misc. household items, cut glass, linens, tools, Christmas decor... something for everyone!!
Salon Bleu
GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!
Sanctuary Salon & Spa
Deadline 5pm Monday. No phone calls.
207 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2060, www.scsalonbleu.com 1041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, 949.429.5802, www.sanctuarytalega.com
SECONDHAND/ CONSIGNMENT SHOPS
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
TERMITES
Colony Termite Control
1402 Calle Alcazar, 949.361.2500, www.colonytermite.com
WEBSITE DESIGN
San Clemente Website Design
949.246.8345, www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com
WINDOW & DOOR INSTALLATION
Offshore Construction
949.444.6323, www.offshoreconstruction.org
Email your listing to info@sanclementetimes.com.
SERVICES PHOTOGRAPHER FOR HOLIDAY PHOTOS Great prices - very affordable. Email: ckorr@ cox.net for rates. Book today! Spaces fill quickly. LOCAL HOUSEKEEPER OR OFFICE CLEANING Reliable, affordable, meticulous. Excellent references. 949-573-8733
SURF STUFF WETSUIT FOR SALE Mens Quiksilver full suit, barely used. Size medium $75. Call or text 949.533.9761.
WANTED LOOKING FOR A ROOM RENTAL In exchange for light housekeeping, errands and caregiving. Please call (949)542-0790.
LIST
USE
LOCALS ONLY
LOCALS ONLY
In print and online 52 weeks a year. View online at www.sanclementetimes.com. Call at Debra Wells for pricing at 949.589.0892 or email dwells@thecapistranodispatch.com
SC San Clemente
SC SURF
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
A Man for All Surf Seasons Dorian ‘Doc’ Paskowitz: a maverick among surfing peers, a singular story in the surfing world
Hayden Millerick. Photo: Jack McDaniel
GROM OF THE WEEK
HAYDEN MILLERICK
BY JIM KEMPTON, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
A
n icon of the surf culture has left us. Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz, a giant among the pioneers of modern 20th Century surfing died peacefully in his sleep at age 93. Summarizing the man is a task not easily condensed. What can be definitively said about Doc is that he was an exceptionally unique individual in the surfing world. Maybe even the whole world. Perhaps the universe, who knows? It is unlikely that there will ever be a story like the one Doc crafted with his life—inimitable, fascinating; almost Biblical. Which is appropriate considering he was a Jewishborn healer/teacher/poet/warrior/philosopher king of his Aquarian realm who spent most of his life wandering in search of the promised land of surf and honey— and probably should be considered one of surfing’s kings, if there were such designations. For most surfers, the basic story of Doc and the Paskowitz family has been chronicled many times in many places. Born into a Russian Jewish immigrant family in 1921 in Galveston, Texas; graduate of Stanford Medical School, falls in love with surfing, falls in love with Juliette, sires nine children; decides the medical profession is not his passion, visits his roots in Israel, introduces surfing there in 1956, returns to California; moves whole family into the oversized camper and spends the next 25 years living (and helping to invent) the surfing bohemian lifestyle as the 11 family members travel together along America’s beaches; operating the first overnight surf camps to support themselves while living the life most young surfers of the era considered a paradisiacal carefree existence, surfing and beachcombing California’s best surf spots. If this description sounds like a madefor-Hollywood screenplay, it was. A 2007 documentary film Surfwise chronicled the Paskowitz family saga which met with overwhelmingly positive reviews and a short but brilliant theatrical run. But the story is a much deeper one, and Doc was a much deeper human than the simple tale would indicate. As the film documentary illuminates (and as many of us close to the family already knew) all San Clemente Times November 13-19, 2014
Dorian “Doc” Paskowitz, 1921-2014. Photo: Art Brewer
“
If the sparkle in the eyes and the grin on the face is the mark of a vital being, then Doc Paskowitz was the most vital man to grace our century, with a vivacity that was infectious and irresistible.
”
was not perfect in paradise. Doc struggled financially. His children, while living what most kids their age would consider seventh heaven, never got the formal education many of them wished for. Yet for all of that, few offspring love their father more than this clan. And as amazing as it would seem in the hyper-competitive 21st Century, the eight brothers and their sister have been remarkably successful in a surprising range of careers—musicians, gourmet chefs, surf brand moguls, teachers, artists, surf champions, philanthropists, coaches and businessmen. Before Stanford, Israel or Juliette, Doc was a San Diego City lifeguard from 1937 to 1941, a free spirit and early surf pioneer, establishing spots like San Onofre and Malibu as sacred locales reflecting the new alternative lifestyle surfers were inventing. I first met Doc in 1975. Always teaching and preaching the value of health and the connection to surfers, Doc later wrote a column for me at Surfer magazine about health and surfing. That subject remained a passionate theme throughout his life. While on family sojourns to the Big Island, East Coast and Oahu, Doc did
stints as a physician, college professor and author. And although he didn’t invent the genre, it would be safe to say that the Paskowitz surf camp serves as a model for almost everything that would come after it, in the form of surf instruction. Ardently dedicated to peace and how surfing is a method of achieving it, Doc co-founded the nonprofit organization Surfing 4 Peace in 2007. With Kelly Slater (who is of Syrian ethnicity) Doc and his family brought surfers from both sides of the Middle-Eastern conflict together to show the unity surfing can achieve and to support the sport in Gaza. It could be said that Doc’s philosophy was simple and he simply chose to lead a simple life. But in fact, his world view (whether you agreed or disagreed) was as complicated as modern life itself, and challenged the very tenets of America’s Puritan work ethic. It could also be said that his loving wife Juliette is a saint—and that would not be far from the truth. Together they raised nine children, every one of them in some way as distinctive and remarkable as their parents. The conundrum of a man who defied all the conventions of his time and yet succeeded on some fundamental and simultaneously mythic level will be a conversation long into the new millennium. In the end though, it is the simply matchless personality that was the hallmark of his life. If the sparkle in the eyes and the grin on the face is the mark of a vital being, then Doc Paskowitz was the most vital man to grace our century, with a vivacity that was infectious and irresistible. His joy of life was so notable that no one who ever met him could forget the way he spoke to you. Doc would always speak to people like they were 1. the most important person in the immediate region,
Page 30
Age: 11, Shorecliffs Middle School Hayden Millerick has been surfing seriously for four years, since moving to San Clemente, and in that time has become a contender among his age group in surf competition. “When I was four my dad pushed me into tiny little runners on the beach,” Hayden said. “I just kept doing it because it’s challenging and really fun.” He competes in the WSA, Soul Surf Series, Stoke-O-Rama and the SSS as a member of his school surf team. His other hobbies include skateboarding and playing kendama— for fun and hand-eye coordination, he said. Hayden would like to become a pro surfer or a fireman, like his dad. Family support makes surfing especially fun. “My mom and dad come to all of my contests and take me to the beach,” he said. “My three sisters are very supportive too.” Hayden is a studious sixth-grader who works hard in school. “I get ‘As’ and ‘Bs’ because if I get ‘Cs’ I can’t surf, so I take it pretty seriously,” Hayden said. “I try hard to get good grades because my parents will take away my surfboard and my kendama if I don’t. If I do, they take me to better surf spots.” The hard work is worth it, he said, because the better he does, the better breaks he gets to surf. Surfers he admires include Jordy Smith, for his speed; John John Florence, for stylish carves; and his dad, because “he’s got style.” Hayden’s favorite thing about surfing: “Getting the barrel vision.” —Andrea Swayne 2. his best friend, and 3. as if the passionate point he was always about to make was crucial for you to pass on to the world at large—immediately. As Maya Angelo so beautifully said “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Doc Paskowitz made you feel good— grand in fact—inside and out. And no one who ever met him will ever forget it. SC www.sanclementetimes.com