LO C A L
N EWS
April 23-29, 2015
YO U
C A N
Go See Do: Things to Do in Southern California
U S E
SPECIAL PULLOUT SECTION VOLUME 10, ISSUE 17
San Clemente Salutes Saylor City reaches out to family, remembers Saylor Voris EYE ON SC/PAGE 9
Students at schools around San Clemente wore orange Tuesday in honor of Saylor Voris. At Shorecliffs Middle School, which Saylor attended and her brother Sam currently attends, students formed an anchor emoji, a symbol of Saylor’s Soldiers. Photo: Jim Shilander
Council Denies Estrella Plaza Freeway Sign EYE ON SC/PAGE 3
Q&A with SC Hall of Fame Inductee John Severson SPORTS/PAGE 22
www.sanclementetimes.com
San Clemente Handbell Choir Performing Sunday SC LIVING/PAGE 17
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SC EYE ON SC San Clemente
LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTING
What’s Up With...
proved by Planning Commission.—Kristin Lee Jensen
Critics Voice SONGS Security Concerns
Five things San Clemente should know this week Council Denies Sports Authority Freeway Sign, Estrella Project in Jeopardy THE LATEST: After a second meeting that included more than a dozen resident comments, nearly an hour of deliberation and a last minute compromise proposal, the San Clemente City Council denied, by a 3-2 vote, a sign exception permit for a freeway-oriented sign for Sports Authority, potentially putting plans for the refurbishment of the Estrella Plaza project in jeopardy. Councilman Tim Brown, who was absent from the previous debate at the council’s April 7 meeting, voted in favor of the proposal, joining Councilwoman Lori Donchak. But Mayor Pro Tem Bob Baker, who had previously sided with Donchak to create a 2-2 deadlock on April 7 (with Mayor Chris Hamm and councilwoman Kathy Ward against), reversed himself, despite the sign being reduced in size from the previous meeting. “It’s going one step too far for me,” Baker said. “I just can’t do it.” Brown said the current council had a good record on not granting special exceptions, or doing so only in specific circumstances. The proposed sign, he said, did not move him to think the costs outweighed the benefits of the changes to the center. Donchak also noted the lack of residents in the area opposing the proposal. Ward said she could not vote to approve a sign that does not meet the city’s guidelines for granting an exception. A number of business owners within the plaza urged the council to vote in favor, citing the sad state of the facility, which they said had become a haven for homeless and was difficult to attract customers to. Opponents said the city needed to adhere to standards, which reject freeway signage in all but a few circumstances. When the council appeared to be moving toward a denial, the applicant, Steve Usdan of Kornwasser Shopping Center Properties, the owner of the former Kmart building, asked for time to find another solution. Tim Wald, director of real estate for Sports Authority, indicated the company could accept reduced signage, changing the size of its letters from 6 feet in height to 5 feet on the freeway-oriented sign, as well as lowering the sign in elevation. San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
Associate Planner Sean Nicholas explains changes to proposed freeway-oriented signage for Sports Authority at Tuesday’s City Council meeting, where the signage was rejected. Photo: Jim Shilander
However, the denial still held.
to the next available exits.
WHAT’S NEXT: The future of the project may now be in doubt. Usdan said financing for its proposed $11 million rebuild was partially contingent on Sports Authority coming in. Without the sign, Usdan said, the company could terminate its lease, potentially leading to the loss of the two other retailers, Stein Mart and Sprouts. The company could choose to leave the building in its current state and offer it to a single store, he said. Wald said his company “was not playing chicken” with regard to the sign. Because the council denied the proposal with prejudice, the developer could technically return a modified proposal to the body for review rather than waiting a year.
WHAT’S NEXT: OCTA is working with merchants along the corridor on a “Purchase on Pico” program to keep up business during the impacted times.—JS
FIND OUT MORE: Visit www.sanclementetimes.com.– Jim Shilander
OCTA Planning Freeway Closures Next Week THE LATEST: San Clemente residents should be prepared for potential overnight traffic next week. OCTA officials told the City Council Tuesday that they will close Interstate 5 beginning at 11 p.m. and reopen at 5 a.m. April 27 and April 28 to begin work to demolish a portion of the southbound Avenida Pico overpass, which will be conducted Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2, at the same times. Traffic will be closed southbound between Avenidas Vista Hermosa and Pico during the Monday and Tuesday periods, and closed after the southbound off-ramp at Pico Friday and Saturday. East-west traffic along Avenida Pico will also be closed at the bridge during demolition, with traffic directed onto Interstate 5
Human Mascots on Planning Agenda THE LATEST: An early effort to rid the city of “human mascots” could gain traction at Wednesday’s Planning Commission meeting. Councilwoman Kathy Ward has initiated an amendment that would prohibit local businesses from using costumed characters as a form of advertisement. Human mascots are currently banned in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Lake Forest and Anaheim. “Our ordinances already don’t allow signs in the public right-of-way,” said Ward, who claims she is not targeting one specific business. “It’s not fair to have a human sign getting someone’s attention in the public right-of-way in front of signs on buildings that are already permitted.” Ward is concerned that the influx of outlet mall retailers may bring more mascots, as well as citing public safety, saying human signs distract drivers. However, Liberty Tax Service co-owner Vicky Wilson, who employs “Statues of Liberty” to wave to passersby at the El Camino Real and Avenida Palizada intersection during tax season, said she’s received only positive feedback. “People tell us they love our dancing guy,” said Wilson, who estimates that 80 to 90 percent of her business from Jan. 1 to April 15 is due to her “wavers.” WHAT’S NEXT: Any proposal would also have to be approved by City Council if ap-
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THE LATEST: Critics of Southern California Edison’s decommissioning of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station denounced the utility’s security plans for the site, noting a lack of ability to respond to airborne threats and vulnerability of its spent fuel pools and dry storage casks. New San Juan Capistrano Community Engagement Panel representative Pam Patterson said she was “not feeling confident” about the current plans, noting that the plant could potentially vulnerable to a hijacked flight from John Wayne Airport, as well as doubting whether security would be able to handle a terrorist assault. Edison officials said security plans include having a number of defensive positions, an experienced security staff and the ability to call on other forces, such as the Marines, as well as extensive screenings of personnel to weed out potential saboteurs. WHAT’S NEXT: Members of the CUP were to meet with members of the California Energy Commission to encourage the development of a state interim solution for storage for spent nuclear fuel, which is currently under control by the federal Department of Energy. A potential solution at Yucca Mtn. in Nevada is unlikely now that a proposed permanent repository has stalled. – JS
More Shark Sightings THE LATEST: Though great white shark sightings are continuing throughout the city, an educator from the Ocean Institute said Wednesday there is likely little danger from the juvenile lamniforms. The most recent shark sighting took place Tuesday, between the sixth and eighth such sighting in the past two weeks. However, the more recent sightings have been of younger, smaller sharks, less than 8 feet long, which is not enough to close beaches. WHAT’S NEXT: Leslie Kretschmar of the Ocean Institute said the California coast serves as a nursery for juvenile Great Whites, with one major nursery off San Onofre. In their juvenile stage, she said, the sharks primarily feed on fish, rays and other sharks, but not mammals, such as sea lions or humans. The presence of the sharks is nothing new, she said. In fact, the larger numbers could be a positive sign for the species, which serves as an apex predator in the waters off Southern California. – JS www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
Community Meetings
NEWS BITES COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
Doheny Wood Returns April 25 Doheny Wood, the annual all-woodie car show, hosted by the SoCal Woodie Club at Doheny State Beach, 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, is set for Saturday, April 25 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 100 classic woodie wagons will be on display along the sand in the parking area south of the campground. The day will also include food, T-shirts, posters, a raffle, awards and more. Park admission is $15 per car, $14 for seniors. For more information, visit www.socalwoodies.com.
Ark of San Juan Presents Annual Garden Tour The Ark of San Juan Companion Animal Rescue will host their seventh annual Paws in the Garden, garden tour on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day includes tours of four gardens—one in Capistrano Beach and three in San Juan Capistrano—door prizes and opportunity drawings. In Capo Beach, tour an original 1929 Doheny cottage made famous by legendar y antiquarian Gep Durenberger, and stroll winding paths through English gardens and aviaries on the property spanning five city lots. The cottage was the first structure built in Capistrano Beach and the Doheny family lived in it while their estate was being built on the coast, a short distance away. The property is the home of the owners/designers of Whim Home and Studio Pink Design Ser vices in San Juan Capistrano. In San Juan, see an award-winning California-friendly garden featuring Southwestern arid-tropical native plants, an elegant multi-level garden designed by Roger’s Gardens and with a panoramic view of the city and a garden in the historic Los Rios District, featuring hollyhocks, sages, roses, jonquil, wisteria, orange and fig trees, vegetable gardens and a hidden tree house. Tickets are $25 and proceeds go toward the Ark’s efforts to save abandoned pets. Tickets may be purchased online via PayPal or by mailing a check to Ark of San Juan, P.O. Box 117, SJC, 92693. On tour day, the tickets will be will-call at any of the four gardens. Tickets will also be sold at any of the four doors. For more information call 949.388.0034, email arkofsanjuan@cox.net or visit the website, www.arkofsanjuan.org. San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
FRIDAY, APRIL 24
DARK FRIDAY
City offices closed SATURDAY, APRIL 25
Auto Academy Fundraiser
Christina Carbonara and Professional Dancer Kyle Spinder accept the $1,000 cash prize from San Clemente Sunrise Rotary President Mike Studenka. The funds will go to Family Assistance Ministries. Photo: Helen Del Grosso
Arts Collective Hosting Fundraiser Show Friday Orange County DIY, an arts collective dedicated to providing safe, accessible and sober arts and music events for all ages will hold a fundraiser show at the San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real on April 24. The event will include food, five bands—including three local ones—12 artists displaying and selling their work and a raffle for which a number of area businesses have donated items for a raffle. The group is working toward nonprofit status and the fundraiser is to get funds for a permanent facility.
Educational Foundation Event June 13 The San Clemente Educational Foundation will hold their 12th annual fundraising gala for educational efforts at San Clemente High School Saturday, June 13 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. The event, “SCHS Five-0” celebrates the school’s 50th anniversary, and will be held at the Colombatto residence, 4130 Calle Isabella in San Clemente. The event will include silent and live auctions, a dinner, entertainment and an opportunity drawing. Tickets are $150 per person and $175 after June 1. One hundred tickets are being sold for an opportunity drawing for a seven night stay for up to six at a private home in Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii. Tickets are $100. The winner need not be present at the event to win. For more information, visit www.sches.org or email scef@cox.net.
Carbonara Wins “Dancing for a Cause” Christina Carbonara owned the dance
floor at Friday night’s multi-charity fundraising event. Christina, manager of her family’s restaurant Carbonara Tratorria Italiana in San Clemente, cha-chaed into the hearts and wallets of the assembled guests at San Clemente Sunrise Rotar y’s annual Dancing For a Cause at the Casino San Clemente. As top dancer, Christina was the winner of a $1,000 cash prize for her charity, Family Assistance Ministries, and the Top Dancer Trophy for 2015. The event brought in a preliminar y count of over $80,000 from ticket sales, silent and live auctions and donations to the charities. Proceeds of the event go to the participating charities to further their work in San Clemente. Christina’s father, Tony Carbonara, had previously danced in the event. The only joint-charity fundraising event of its kind in Orange County, Dancing For a Cause brought together talented dancers Rhonda Tooker and professional Aleksy Ryazanov for the host charity San Clemente Sunrise Rotar y, the group that organized the event. Mike Stock and professional Allie Spinder danced the quickstep to “Puttin’ On the Ritz” for the San Clemente Rotar y Club. Cher yl Osborn and professional Alex Martar did the Cha Cha/Hustle to “Firework” for Laura’s House. Local celebrity judges, San Clemente City Councilman Tim Brown and Bob Burns, a former winner for the San Clemente Rotar y Club, joined professional Dancer Kasia Reinert. This semi-formal dress ballroom dancing competition event is modeled after television’s popular “Dancing With the Stars.” Have something interesting for the community? Tell us about awards, events, happenings, accomplishments and more. We’ll put your submissions into “News Bites.” Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.
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9 a.m. Shadetree Automotive, 1635 N. El Camino Real, will host an oil change fundraiser for the San Clemente High School Auto Academy until 1 p.m. For a $40 donation, drivers will receive a free oil change. All of the proceeds from the event will benefit the auto academy. An appt. is required. 949.498.6470, www. shadetreeautorepairsanclemente.com. MONDAY, APRIL 27
Spanish Conversation
11 a.m. Meet at Café Calypso for coffee and conversation. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.9803.
German Speaking Group
2 p.m.–4p.m. German conversations at Café Calypso. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8436. TUESDAY, APRIL 28
SC Sunrise Rotary Club
7:15 a.m.–8:30 a.m. Meeting at Signature Grille at the Talega Golf Club, 990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.0663, www. scsunriserotary.org.
Toastmasters
7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking every Tuesday in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. 3316 Avenida del Presidente, 949.361.8463, http://6463. toastmastersclubs.org/directions.html. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
Kiwanis Meeting
Noon. The local Kiwanis Club meets at Tommy’s. 1409 S El Camino Real, 949.498.7000, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.
SC Rotary Club
Noon. Pride of the Pacific Bar & Grille, 150 Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.3619, www.sanclementerotary.org.
French Conversation Club
2 p.m.–4 p.m. Come and chat at Café Calypso every Wednesday; no fees, no registration. 114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.493.5228. www.sanclementetimes.com
EYE ON SC
SC Sheriff’s Blotter COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER
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, April 21 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Salvador, 300 Block (11:37 a.m.) A woman said she heard what she believed were gunshots at the house to the left. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Via Pico Plaza, 100 Block (8:52 a.m.) A male transient was loitering in front of a bank, waiting for the bank to open. CITIZEN ASSIST Avenida Presidio, 100 Block (8:42 a.m.) A caller said there was a strange odor coming from the complex he lives in, potentially due to drug activity. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Serra, 100 Block (5:08 a.m.) An elderly woman could be heard yelling. It was unknown if anyone was inside the
residence with her. The caller said the woman lived alone.
Monday, April 20 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida Vista Montana, 200 Block (7:05 p.m.) Two men in their mid-20s were going through the complex pounding on doors and harassing tenants. The two men were not known to the complex. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 3900 Block (6:22 p.m.) A female transient was being loud and refusing to leave. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Calle Frontera, 2000 Block (5:55 p.m.) A caller said a man had walked into a gated facility without permission and refused to be screened by security. Security said he was currently inside. PATROL CHECK Calle Puente, 1100 Block (4:24 p.m.) Juveniles were riding a motorized scooter near and around the park. VANDALISM REPORT Avenida Vista Hermosa/ Interstate 5 (4:01 p.m.) A parent reported their daughter’s vehicle had been vandalized in the Shorecliffs Middle School parking lot. PETTY THEFT El Camino Real, 800 Block (2:57 p.m.) A store’s loss prevention
employee reported three male subjects stealing eye drops. The subjects “appeared to be high.” SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE El Camino Real, 2300 Block (1:23 p.m.) A woman said one of her customers had come in and told her he “is going to heaven today and there will be a big show at 3 p.m.” The man gave the woman his cell phone number to call back at that time to find out what happened. The caller said he “didn’t seem right today” but said she did not believe the man suffered from a mental illness. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Legendario/Camino del Rio (11:57 a.m.) Two bikes and a skateboard had been sitting out for two days. DRUNK IN PUBLIC Calle Amistad. 100 Block (2:52 a.m.) A caller reported their roommate, who was wearing a black jacket and blue jeans, was breaking compact discs in the street.
Sunday, April 19 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida de la Estrella/Avenida Palizada (8:17 p.m.) A patrol check was requested for a woman and two men loitering next to the door of a closed business. DISTURBANCE El Portal, 200 Block (7 p.m.)
A caller reported there was some sort of argument between their uncle and a neighbor. Several people had come on the phone but none were able to explain what was happening. SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCE Avenida San Pablo, 700 Block (6:12 p.m.) Three vehicles had been parked for 45 minutes. The caller was concerned that the occupants were throwing things into the street and possibly doing drugs. DISTURBANCE Arbolado, 2700 Block (5:27 p.m.) An informant was arguing in the street with someone who had been told to stay away from the area. The subject was in a black Land Rover and had been seen vandalizing vehicles on the street the night before. DISTURBANCE Avenida Lobiero, 200 Block (5:06 p.m.) A woman reported that her neighbor was blocking her garage with his vehicle. The neighbor refused to answer the door. DISTURBANCE El Camino Real/Avenida Cabrillo (2:41 a.m.) An anonymous caller reported a man harassing two women on the street. They were last seen at the crosswalk near Pizza Port. The man was described as wearing red “Goody’s” collared shirt.
EYE ON SC
San Clemente High School cheerleaders perform a “sendoff” for teammate Saylor Voris at a Memorial at the high school April 15. Photo: Jim Shilander
Saluting Saylor
her classmates to begin her junior year of high school. However, she began suffering setbacks related to the transfusion, resulting in more hospital stays before declining health over the last two months.
San Clemente salutes SCHS student who battled leukemia
Fighting to the Last At a tear-filled vigil in front of the Voris home the day Saylor passed away, a number of people—friends, family, nurses and fellow patients at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County—talked about a girl who wanted nothing more than to keep living. Saylor’s father, John Voris, held aloft strands of “warrior beads” given to Saylor during her treatment. Each bead represented some sort of treatment, the larger the bead, the worse and more painful the treatment. Konnie Voris said her daughter had 18 strands. “Every one of these meant something, an IV, antibiotic, an infection,” he told the crowd, which numbered in the hundreds. “The latest was for a cracked spine. Fractures in both hips. You’d see her walking the damn Pier with fractured hips. It was ridiculous what she went through. She wanted to be part of this community. She wanted to be normal, to hang out with her friends and do nothing.” Saylor, he said, managed to beat the cancer. The transplant of bone marrow she received in February 2014 just did not take as it should have, he said. “Up to the last minute, she was willing to give it a little more time,” he said. “They’d told her she could be intubated and go on a ventilator and possibly pro-
BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
F
ew people have attacked life, and fought cancer, like Saylor Voris. In the last week, since the San Clemente High School junior passed away following a nearly two-year bout with a rare form of leukemia, Saylor’s family, her friends, classmates and the adults who watched her grow up and those who only knew her through her fight with cancer, have shared their stories of how this young woman changed their lives for the better and expressed sorrow at the too-early loss of Saylor, especially to her mother Konnie, father John and brother Sam. Saylor was diagnosed with leukemia in September 2013, at the start of her sophomore year at San Clemente High School, where she’d been a cheerleader. The following February, she received a bone marrow transplant and went into a six-month quarantine to ward off infection, first at the Children’s Hospital of Orange County, then at her home. This past September, Saylor, like thousands of other students, went back to school with
San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
The sign that has sat in front of the Voris home since Saylor’s leukemia diagnosis was the scene of a memorial April 14. Photo: Jim Shilander
long her life, or go down to the fifth floor, where they’d make her stable to call her friends and talk to them. She said, ‘I want to live.’ She said her goodbyes to me, to Sam, to Konnie and to all of you.” A second memorial was held Wednesday at San Clemente High School, where, the day before, students had been allowed to go out to the football field to share their grief with one another. “The one thing you can’t forget is that smile that she had, the enthusiasm with which she embraced everything, especially the challenges,” SCHS principal Michael Halt said. “She loved her family, she loved this community and she loved this school.” Student Alex Zewiski called Saylor, “a shining ray of light, not only for our school, but also the community as a whole,” and “a real-life super hero that we
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all had the pleasure to know… and a girl who made all our lives better.” Friend Megan Carroll said Saylor was an “amazing person who was always positive.” “Even when she was losing her hair, she was positive about it,” Carroll said. “She said, ‘That’s who I am, I’m going to be bald. I’m ‘Baldy.’ She took something completely negative and turned it into a positive. That’s something I’ll always carry with me. She taught me so much.” Morgan Bedard, who also grew up with Saylor, said there were “no words in the universe to describe the love and admiration I have for Saylor.” “She was amazing,” Bedard said. “People always say that after loved ones have passed, but Saylor was truly an amazing human being … She put a smile on everyone’s face… She wouldn’t let anyone know she was in pain or so much pain she was in until I talked to my mom… She loved life and every moment she was given. If I could ask for one thing, it would be to have her back. But she made it. She made it through all of the pain.” Saylor’s fellow cheerleaders led the crowd in a send-off for their fallen teammate as well. “Every problem she faced, she took the high road,” teammate and friend Hannah Peterson said. “That was just Saylor. That’s how she always was. We need to celebrate her life, just as she lived it.” Schools Honor Family Tuesday, a week after news of her passing reached her family and friends, students across San Clemente wore orange, a color that symbolizes the fight against leukemia, to school in memory of Saylor and in support of her family. Bryan Campbell, who taught Saylor at Shorecliffs, where her brother, Sam, is currently enrolled, said his school’s effort, which included orange-clad students forming the shape of an anchor in the quad, was the idea of his leadership students. “One of our teachers came in and brought up the idea of wearing orange,” Campbell said. “I brought it to the two leadership classes, and they were all on board, because they know Sam, who’s in eighth grade. He’s well liked. They wanted to support Sam.” The anchor, based on the emoji used on the Saylor’s Soldiers website that kept the community abreast of what was going on during her fight and now serves as a place for remembrance, was the suggestion of a student. “It’s painful, it hurts, and I can’t imagine what Konnie, John and Sam are going through,” Campbell, who taught Voris for two years at Shorecliffs, said. “It’s just a token. But it’s letting them know we’re there for them.” A memorial service will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at Compass Bible Church in Aliso Viejo, 150 Columbia. Family and friends unable to attend will be able to view a live feed at www.compasschurch. org. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SC SOAPBOX San Clemente
VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS
GUEST OPINION: 2/4 Corner By Lt. Col. Mike Wilonsky, Commanding Officer, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, “The Magnificent Bastards”
Training Grounds
34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624
City’s adopted unit working with Korean military
G
reetings Bastard Nation. The Battalion Landing Team is “feet dry” and back on shore in Okinawa. March has literally sailed right past us. We spent the entire month aboard three separate ships: The USS Bonhomme Richard, USS Ashland and USS Green Bay and participating in the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit’s certification exercise and a brief Korean Marine Exchange Program where the entire BLT offloaded in the vicinity of Pohang, Korea. During our four day stint in Korea, Golf Company executed a fantastic bilateral amphibious demonstration where 14 amphibious assault vehicles landed simultaneously with 14 Korean amphibious assault vehicles, while fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft flew overhead. It was a pretty spectacular view. Fox Company and Light Armored Reconnaissance Platoon participated in Korean steep earth and assault climbing at the Korean Mountain Warfare Training Center, while Echo, Weapons, Fox Battery and the majority of Headquarters and Service
Letters to the Editor MORE THAN WORDS ARE NEEDED AT NORTH BEACH LINDA SADEGHI, Casino San Clemente
“Well done is better than well said.” – Benjamin Franklin We have owned, operated and lovingly restored the Casino San Clemente, including the Ellie’s Table neighborhood café, in the heart of North Beach during the past five years. As one of the earliest structures built in San Clemente, the Casino dance hall is a well-recognized historical landmark. During our tenure here we have collected hair-raising tales of renovation construction nightmares and diabolical local politics, enough to fuel several reality shows; but that is not the reason for writing now. We are writing to solicit action in North Beach; no more words. The discourse on making North Beach a “historic district” goes on ad nauseam. With the iconic Ole Hanson Beach Club, the Casino San Clemente, the Miramar, the bowling alley and the Ichibiri structures as authentic anchors, it is a historic district; there can be no debate. Receiving a certificate declaring as much is not what we need in North Beach. We need things done. Here are only a few examples. The weeds at the corner of El Camino San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
Company participated in the bilateral live-fire exercise at the Korean Range Complex. Over the course of the four days, we really enjoyed working side-by-side with our Korean Marine brothers. The weather 2/4 CORNER By Mike Wilonsky was perfect and the sun shined the entire time—until it was time to depart. As helicopters came into the landing zone, the clouds came rolling in and so did the horrible weather. The entire BLT was stuck at the range complex until the following day when buses delivered them to the Pohang Pier so the Marines/Sailors could be extracted by landing crafts back to their ships. Two days later, everyone made it back and you could see the sighs of reliefs as they enjoyed their hot showers and hot meals. Three days later, we made it back to Okinawa and we spent the entire week offloading all gear and
Real and Pico, the entrance to North Beach from the outlet mall, already dwarf the chain link fence. When we ask for weed abatement service we are informed that if the weeds are still green, they are not considered “weeds.” So, on they grow. Although there is a property negligence code on the city books, the disrepair, peeling paint, wires, nails and broken asphalt continue to thrive at the Miramar. The look of abandonment creates a vagrant oasis— with outdoor urination, assorted fast food debris and graffiti a regular decoration at our historic district gateway. We asked code enforcement to at least remove the red couch which just appeared on the bowling alley steps, but a week later it is still there. As the city finally addresses their own deferred maintenance at the Ole Hanson Beach Club, we offered some artistic suggestions for decorating the chain link construction fence, one of them being a painted story highlighting our historic district. We even offered to help underwrite so no taxpayer dollars need be spent. No response. The chain link continues to clutter our North Beach scenery and add to the feel of desolation. The city is paving a new parking lot where the historic Ernesto’s restaurant once stood between Ichibiri and Kaylani; creating a toothless smile at our northern entrance and an asphalt grave where ocean view patios were once enjoyed by locals. More parking for…? City parking studies already told us we have more than enough parking in North
returning it back to Camp Hansen. Yesterday, we sent home our first advance party crew and we will say farewell to the rest by Friday—which means we are not far behind. The advance party will spend the next month preparing the facilities and gear for our arrival. The majority of the BLT is still in Okinawa, where we will spend the remainder of our time on this island cleaning and preparing all of gear and facilities for our sister battalion, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines. As the Commanding Officer of San Clemente’s Battalion, I look forward to bringing you updates each month on your Marines and Sailors from the storied 2d Battalion, 4th Marines—affectionately known as the Magnificent Bastards. 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.
Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, April 24, at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar.. Board members from the Friends of San Clemente Foundation will be on hand to discuss some of the upcoming events for the organization, including the annual Friendraiser and Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony and golf tournament. Beachside Chat is a spirited, town hall forum on community issues, hosted by SC Times editor Jim Shilander every Friday at Café Calypso. All are welcome.
Beach for decades to come. Historic districts are incredible resources for preserving the story of a town and attracting visitors, but only if cherished, cleaned, refurbished and supporting vibrant commerce and eateries. Not sure why anyone would scoot down Pico right now to visit what we’re actually offering, which is weeds, neglect and more asphalt.
TEN YEARS AFTER TRAGEDY, THANK YOU SAN CLEMENTE KEVIN CUMISKEY, Arroyo Grande
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
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PICKET FENCE MEDIA PUBLISHER Norb Garrett
> Susie Lantz (San Clemente)
EDITORIAL
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Picket Fence Media Group Senior Editor, City Editor, DP Times > Andrea Swayne
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City Editor, SC Times > Jim Shilander
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City Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch > Allison Jarrell 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
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CONTRIBUTORS Megan Bianco, Kevin Dahlgren, Evan Da Silva, Dana Schnell, Steve Sohanaki, Tim Trent, Kristin Lee Jensen
Go See Do illustrations by Freepik.com San Clemente Times, Vol. 10, Issue 17. 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 2015. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.
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Ten years go by fast. In April 2005, Lorraine Anne Cumiskey had her life ended tragically. She was my mother, best friend and the most special woman I have ever known. So many times she gave me
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SOAPBOX love, and kept giving and loving even when I know other things made it tough on her. She was a great mother, but she herself had experienced so much loss in her life, her heart suffered. She lost parents, friends, her husband, her best friend, her dog Fred. All the while she never stopped loving me, but she did stop loving herself. She forgot to take the time to be good to herself, as good as she was to others. She settled, she accepted less than, and didn’t honor herself properly. She allowed people in her life who were unacceptable, who offered her scraps of love instead of the real thing. She forgot how special she was, and how incredible life truly is. No matter how dark, how depressed, how dim the light may seem, none of us know what is ahead. And between the loss and the poor treatment, good things didn’t feel deserved and the light at the end of tunnel wasn’t so easy to see. Sadly, I couldn’t give her the belief in herself that I had in her. I wanted so bad to fix what hurt her, that my love was enough to help her see things my way. At times, my love was conditional. I didn’t give like she gave to me. I failed my mother and I can’t fix that. So that is why I write this letter now, to be strong for her. To let this be the goodbye she deserves, not the headlines, not the news reports, not the wonders of who done it, and who didn’t do it. She was my Mom, my best friend and all I ever needed to feel loved. She knew how to hug me, how to make me smile even when I was crying, and all of these tools a mother has, only come from love. Taking time and sharing love, being loved without conditions or requirements. I want her to be remembered for these things. I want her to be remembered for being a good friend, good neighbor and loving person. Now that she is gone, and I can’t call her up and hear her voice or go see her anytime I want, it’s been hard for me. A lot has changed both good and bad. The bad is easy to see, the good may not always be so, buts it’s there. Even with the pain she taught me again, and gave me love indirectly. She taught me to love every minute, to hold tight to those you love and never stop. She sadly missed out on the birth of her granddaughter in June 2007. Finally, the son had done something his mother would have been proud of. She didn’t get to see all the wonder and joy I see every day when I look at my little girl. But within that, she taught me again, for I know that is how she looked upon me, making me love her all that much more. She gave me the heart I have, the feelings I feel and the life I live. I am forever grateful to the most wonderful woman I’veever met, Lorraine Anne Martinett Cumiskey. Now I turn to you San Clemente one last time for help. She loved San Clemente, the beaches, the people, and she loved her family. So I ask a little favor in her honor, slow down a little sometimes. Put the phone down, turn the TV off, step away from the work and computers, talk with one another. Spend time loving, getting to know each other. For that is really why we do all this stuff. Hearts of the loved ones around you. Don’t lose sight of that. San Clemente helped me in so many ways Page 11
when my mother passed. I learned from the great people of the town who showed me unconditional love, and thank you to those of you who did just the opposite. From my loving and kind neighbors, to my wonderful dentist Dr. Rice and his wife, and also my optometrist Dr. Griffin and his office and staff; I thank you all. I thank the San Clemente Times and other news agencies, for helping cover my mother’s case and not let it be forgotten—all the way down to the nice people who sent me well wishes, the kind woman who made me a quilt and the amazing family who purchased the home my mother loved more than anything. Everything counted, everything mattered—even the bad stuff— for this really brought out a side of San Clemente I had not seen before and gave me hope for what can and could be. I thank you for taking the time to read this, and remembering my mother. I really love her and miss her. It’s been 10 years and the hurt hasn’t changed one bit. And no matter how much I hope, I cannot go back in time prevent it, or save my mother. There is nothing I can do. So while you still have time, love those around you, fix the junk, and love unconditionally. If my mother can influence one family out there to do more of that, I know that would make her feel very happy. Thank you San Clemente. I love you.
PROTECT ALL OCEAN VIEWS RICARDO NICOL, San Clemente
On April 12, I participated with about 50 other Sam Clemente residents, city officials and members of the press in the opening of the hiking trails at the Sea Summit residential development, formerly known as Marblehead Coastal. The four miles of trails have spectacular views of canyons, the town below, ocean and whitewater, they are wide and easy to walk, and are a wonderful addition to other public outdoor amenities, such as the Beach Trail, that connect our city to the ocean. But those grand, photo opportunity, special views are not the only ones that help make San Clemente the delightful place that it is. Just as important are many small, subtle views that we are hardly aware of but which permeate, almost subliminally, our, and our visitors, daily driving and walking comings and goings, and affirm our identity as a seaside community. One important example, in the older part of town, are the view corridors to the ocean that occur every couple of hundred feet as we travel along El Camino Real from El Portal, on the north, to Avenida Valencia, on the south—about 20 streets—most of which look straight down into the Pacific from El Camino Real. It was part of Ole Hanson’s genius as a city planner that he laid out those city blocks perpendicular to the ocean, and across the contours of the land, instead of parallel to the ocean and to the contours, which would have provided only four or five view corridors instead of about 20. You can say that Ole Hanson wove the Pacific Ocean into the urban fabric of the beautiful town he created. Let’s appreciate, preserve, enhance and extend his artistry and vision in all parts of the city. www.sanclementetimes.com
SC GETTING OUT San Clemente
YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER
The List
At the Coach House: Tony Calabrese
EDITOR’S PICK
What’s going on in and around town this week
COMPILED BY STAFF
Thursday | 23 DESIGN FOR POWER AND EFFECT WITH RICK DELANTY 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Understand composition in drawings to create more meaningful paintings. Class runs April 23-25. $375. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.
Friday | 24 BILLY WATSON 7:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at Iva Lee’s. 555 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com. AIDA 7 p.m. South Orange County School of the Arts theater students present the TONY Award-winning musical “Aida,” an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal. Tickets are $12-$15 and are available online or at the door. Show also runs Saturday, April 25 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dana Hills High School, Porthole Theater, 33333 Golden Lantern, 949.240.1994, www.socsarts.org.
Saturday | 25 EARTH DAY AT THE OCEAN INSTITUTE 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Earth Day activities include exploring marine wildlife, creating ecofriendly crafts and other hands-on activities that teach about protecting natural environments. Cost is $6.50 for adults or $4.50 for children (ages 3-12). Participate in the beach and harbor cleanup from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. that day and receive free admission. 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org. CAMPFIRE PROGRAM 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Join OC Parks for a campfire program that may include a presentation, wilderness safety, games and activities for children, a live animal demonstration and a chance to visit the Nature Center. Admission is free, parking is $5 per vehicle. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, 949.923.2210, www.ocparks.com/caspers. WEEKEND COMEDY 8 p.m. New play at the Cabrillo Playhouse. Two couples have each rented the same cabin. When the decision is made to share the one bedroom, one bath cabin, the fun San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
Photo: Courtesy
BY ALLISON JARRELL
The kitchen of the historic Doheny House. Photo: Andrea Swayne
SATURDAY, MAY 2: PINK GALA AT DOHENY HOUSE 6 p.m. The owners of the historic Doheny House will unveil their home’s complete, top-to-bottom period-correct restoration at the upcoming Pink Gala fundraiser to benefit cancer patients at Orange Coast Memorial Hospital, Dr. Mark Kobayashi’s Hands of Hope International, as well as other programs of Kristine Taylor Philanthropies. The evening will feature special guests—including Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist Michael Ramirez, DIY and HGTV star Matt Blashaw and Phil Roberts, master painter, sculptor and Pipeline Masters trophy artist—live music, dancing under the stars, fine dining, a high-end fashion show, silent auction, a live art auction and the opportunity to have a look inside one of the area’s most beautiful and historic homes. Tickets are $250 and can be purchased online. All proceeds support the cause. Doheny House, 335101 Camino Capistrano, Capistrano Beach, 949.387.8711, www.kristinetaylorphilanthropies.org.
begins as the two generations clash. Performances run until May 10. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.cabrilloplayhouse.org or by calling 949.4920465. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente
Sunday | 26 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. SAN CLEMENTE ART ASSOCIATION MILITARY ARTISTS PROGRAM 3 p.m.-5 p.m. This free program for military artists and their spouses will focus on seascape painting. Sponsored by SCAA, the San Clemente Sunrise Rotary Club and San Clemente Art Supply, the program includes presentations on art journaling, setting up a paint palette, bringing doodles to life and more. To register, contact Sandy Beal at map_scaa@ cox.net. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.
Monday | 27 MOMMY MOVIE MONDAYS 10 a.m. Moms and dads are welcome to bring their baby along to the theater every
Monday at Krikorian Theaters. 641 Camino De Los Mares, San Clemente, 949.661.7610, www.kptmovies.com.
Tuesday | 28 BEHAVIOR AND THE BRAIN LECTURE 6:30 p.m. A 30-minute talk centered on drug-free solutions for resolving issues surrounding ADD/ADHD and learning difficulties from Asperger syndrome. Spinal Vitality, 647 Camino de los Mares, Suite 220, San Clemente, 949.616.5470, www.theblissprogram.com.
Wednesday | 29 COMEDY NIGHT 9:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. Live comedy at Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomsirishbar.com.
UPCOMING: MAY 1 ARTISTS OF TOMORROW 6 p.m. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens will host the 12th annual student art exhibition on Friday, May 1 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free. The exhibition will run through May 31. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.
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an Diego comedian Tony Calabrese, known as the Italian Godfather of Comedy, is returning to the Coach House on Wednesday, May 6. Calabrese, a two-time bank president turned comedian, describes his humor as largely self-deprecating—true life observations of a middle-aged, married fat guy with three grandchildren. His comedic style is in the vein of performers like Rodney Dangerfield—utilizing animated facial expressions. Calabrese has performed on stage over 3,000 times, with more than 20 shows at the Coach House. He performs regularly at The Comedy Store, The Comedy Palace, The Madhouse Comedy Club and other venues. “Getting laughs from strangers is an art form; it takes a long time to perfect,” Calabrese said. “There aren’t any shortcuts, you just have to practice.” Local comedian Jim Taylor is producing and performing in the show as well. Taylor has had his own show at the Irvine Improv for the last three years, with shows off and on at the Coach House. Taylor was voted the guy with the deepest voice in high school, but he said it wasn’t until later in life that he embraced his natural comedic style. “When you find your voice, you realize what you’re really passionate about,” Taylor said. “You’re not just a talking head, and the audience connects with you.” Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $5. Taylor said the show will be PG-13 to R-light humor—risqué not raunchy. The Coach House is located at 33157 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano. 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
Cover photos by Allison Jarrell and Alex Paris
A Day on
Catalina Island BY ALLISON JARRELL AND ALEX PARIS
Just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California awaits Santa Catalina Island, a treasure trove of aquatic activities and entertainment—from parasailing and kayaking, to scuba diving and snorkeling. The island, home to more than 50 species of plants and animals that live nowhere else in the world, greets visitors with miles of stunning scenery, from views of the iconic Catalina Casino to the luminous orange garibaldi swimming beneath crystal clear waters. Whether you’re able to spend a weekend or just a day on Catalina Island, expect to be treated to a slice of island life.
People line up early to dine at Eric’s on the Pier, a popular food stand offering an array of classic American dishes, including the beloved buffalo burger. Photo: Alex Paris
The Catalina Island Brew House—a brew pub, café and bakery—sits along the bustling waterfront pedestrian mall of Crescent Avenue. Shaded patio seating, happy hour and fresh pastries make the brew house an ideal place to kick back and relax. Photo: Alex Paris Drake Anderson, 8, of Playa del Rey, gets his snorkel gear on during a fun-filled morning on Avalon’s South Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell
The Wrigley Memorial, nestled within the island’s botanic garden, honors the memory of William Wrigley Jr., who played an instrumental role in the history of the island. Visitors can access the popular Garden to Sky Trail hike through the botanic garden. Photo: Alex Paris
HOW TO GET THERE • Catalina Express from Dana Point, Long Beach or San Pedro to Avalon or Two Harbors. www.catalinaexpress.com • Catalina Flyer from Newport Beach to Avalon. www.catalinainfo.com • Island Express Helicopter from Long Beach, San Pedro or Santa Ana. www.islandexpress.com
Daniel Robles, 30, and Anton Dimas, 26, of Paramount, enjoy kayaking off of Descanso Beach. Photo: Allison Jarrell
Tourists and palm trees bask in the sun along Middle Beach, next to the Green Pleasure Pier. Photo: Alex Paris
The Lobster Trap, a favorite seafood eatery and bar among locals, offers a fun, casual atmosphere and a variety dishes including fresh, local lobster. Photo: Allison Jarrell
Lloyd’s of Avalon Confectionary has been making its homemade salt water taffy and confections in the storefront on Crescent Avenue since 1934. The shop also has an impressive assortment of retro candy, and 50 cent coffee to complement your sugar rush. Photo: Allison Jarrell
Going off the Grid A south Orange County hike for one and all BY ALEX PARIS
South Orange County has a bewildering number of trails, many of which offer spectacular views of scenic beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Read on for a sampling of trails that represent a variety of settings and difficulties. Be sure to check city websites for trail closure information and maps beforehand.
Dana Point Headlands
Difficulty: Easy Length: 1 mile round trip Location: Scenic Drive and Dana Strand Road This bluff top trail is a great place to get a quick fix of romance, inspiration or introspection. The trail’s surface is made of soft sand, which lends to the relaxing atmosphere cultivated by native wildlife and birdcalls that envelope the path. Though short and centrally located, descending into this nature reserve brings an almost immediate sense of remoteness. The sweeping panorama and grandeur of the ocean against the coastline as it fades into the distance is breathtaking. The trail offers unobstructed views of the sunset and Catalina Island, but it’s important to note that the gates are locked promptly after sunset. No bikes or pets are allowed. Free parking is located at both ends of the trail and the Nature Interpretive Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Las Ramblas Trailhead Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3.5 mile round trip Location: Camino Las Ramblas
This is a great place to quickly elevate yourself above the hectic traffic of Interstate 5 or busy city life and clear your mind. It offers 360-degree views of the area—from the Santa Ana mountain range, to San Juan Capistrano, to Dana Point Harbor and beyond. Those views take a mild amount of exercise to ascend to—and without restrooms, shade or water—some preparation is recommended. The doubletrack trail is hard-packed and smooth, forming a 3.5-mile loop back to beginning, but there’s a vast web of single track trails that offer more challenging routes often favored by mountain bikers.
San Clemente Summit Difficulty: Moderate Length: 3 miles round trip Location: Avenida Talega
Also known as “the highest point in San Clemente,” the Summit is a point along the northern Cristianitos Trail. At 1,008 feet above sea level, the summit rewards hikers with a view of rolling hills, native California wildlife and the Pacific. Since last year, a marker and bench have been added to the point. The Cristianitos Trail is open to hikers, bikers and horses, and can be accessed from a parking lot at the terminus of Avenida Talega.
San Clemente Beach Trail
Difficulty: Easy Length: 2.3 miles to 4.6 mile round trip Location: Between North Beach and Calafia Beach The smell of salty air, the feel of a cool breeze and the occasional toot of a train horn are characteristic of this idyllic SoCal setting that balances nature and civilization. The trail is great for anything from romantic sunset walks to energetic family outings. The well-manicured path is smooth, wide and flat enough to accommodate all—from a slow gait to a hasty dog-walker or brisk cyclist. The trail parallels the Amtrak line and the beach as it makes its way past scenic cliffs, the bustling San Clemente Pier and surfing hotspots. There are many access points, including large metered parking lots with bathrooms and refreshments at its middle and both ends. The trail tends to be busy during the summer and weekends, and is cool and quiet in the early morning.
Waterman’s Harbor. Photo: Andrea Papagianis
Seafood for Every Budget BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS
around four-course, feast-style dinners. On the other, small plates and happy hours see out-of-towners and just-offof-workers enjoying the San Clemente staple’s unfussy style. No matter the side patrons choose, the fish is fresh and responsibly sourced. Another thing is certain: views from this pier-top eatery are striking wherever the seat. 611 Avenida Victoria, San Clemente, 949.498.6390, www.thefishermansrestaurant.com.
$$$ Waterman’s Harbor
$ Jon’s Fish Market
Photo: Alex Paris
Frills are nonexistent at Jon’s. Fish is the focus. Whether it be grilled, battered and fried or smoked in house, Jon’s Fish Market dishes its fresh fish offerings up on plastic plates. A steady stream of patrons carry cafeteria-style trays, towering with piping hot fish and chip combos, to picnic tables at the edge of Dana Point’s harbor where guests perk up with each crackle of the speaker waiting for their name to be called—order’s up. 34665 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.2807, www.jonsfishmarket.com.
Named for those who make their living, or mark, on the water, this dockside dining destination is all seafood, all the time. Fresh always, local when possible means offerings can change daily. Oysters from Baja California, Hawaiian ahi tuna and locally-caught halibut accompany the crowd favorite, crab beignets—an airy, crab fritter—on this fish-forward menu. Live music and uninterrupted waterway views go hand-in-hand each night at Waterman’s. 34661 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.764.3474, www.watermandp.com.
$$$$ Raya
Photo: Allison Jarrell
$$ The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar
Fisherman’s tells a tale of two restaurants. On one side of the pier families gather
Courtesy photo
Raya is synonymous with refinement. Its every detail, from service to spice, are fine-tuned. Locally-raised meats, sustainably-sourced fish and farmers’ market produce are showcased with the vibrant Latin flavors of renowned Chef Richard Sandoval on an ever-developing, East-meets-West menu. A twist to traditional Japanese dishes sees miso udon finished with poblano and sashimi served Mexican aguachile style. 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.2000, www.ritzcarlton.com/lagunaraya.
Dining Snapshots
Photo: Andrea Papagianis
Afternoon Tea Artifex Brewing Company 919 Calle Amanecer, San Clemente 949.429.7805, www.artifexbrewing.com Despite being open for just seven months, Artifex Brewing Company’s demand has already exceeded its supply. Seasonal and staple beers alike pour from taps across Orange and San Diego counties—the latter, home to three of the brewery’s four owners. A crowd favorite: The No Name IPA—a West Coast-style Indian Pale Ale—that Artifex has brewed since day one. “We are actually at the point now where we can’t make enough beer
to keep up,” said partner Johnny Johur, who earned his brewing stripes at Pizza Port. For Artifex, a San Clemente-based brewing operation that meticulously utilizes every inch of its current space for both production and tasting, expansion plans are in the works. Artifex will soon take over an adjacent suite to increase its production. In its first calendar year, Artifex is on target to produce about 1,000 barrels—or 2,000 kegs—of its ever-changing brews. On tap now are the English Brown Ale, American Tea, and Hibisc-This, a hibiscus and orange peel cream ale. Much like the brewery’s shifting tasting room drafts, Artifex hosts a rotation of food trucks—because every cold beer deserves an equally good bite. —Andrea Papagianis
Photo: Andrea Papagianis
Vietnamese Sticky Wings MRK Public 1402 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente 949.441.7621, www.mrkpublic.com Knickknacks, T-shirts and photographs are what many of us have to show for our travels. Flavor: That’s what Moriah Robison, Rayne Frey and Kai Robison—the brains, and names, behind MRK Public— have delivered their home town, San Clemente. Clean, fresh tastes from their trips to Vietnam and Thailand are the pinnacle of this eatery’s short menu. Brined for 24 hours, before being parbaked and flashfried to order, MRK’s Vietnamese sticky
wings are a tender, messy, savory twist to this quintessential bar food. “This dish is sweet, salty, sour and spicy. It sort of has it all,” said Moriah. “It isn’t going to be for everybody but if you are open to its flavors then you are going to love it.” Talk about having it all. The wings are topped with flash-fried garlic—a Thai-inspired element that adds a surprisingly sweet crunch. It is just one of the many tastes of their culinary travels these brothers and longtime friends are sharing with guests. “We are having the best response we could have hoped for,” Kai said of the restaurant’s first six months of business. “People are excited about having something different.”—Andrea Papagianis
All Aboard the Angels Express Baseball fans can forget about fighting rush hour, and ballpark traffic. When the Angels are home on weekdays, game-goers can leave the stress of commuting behind by catching the Angels Express. Metrolink trains bound for the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center, adjacent to Angel Stadium, run from the Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo station for weekday home games starting at 7:05 p.m. Southbound trains depart 30 minutes after the final out with trains leaving Anaheim no later than 11:30 p.m. The train’s full schedule can be found at www.octa.net/angelsexpress. Round-trip tickets cost $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and disabled riders and $4 for riders under 18. Children under 5 ride free with the purchase of an adult fare. ANGELS EXPRESS Start: Laguna Niguel/Mission Viejo Station Finish: Anaheim—Angels Stadium Stops: Irvine, Tustin, Santa Ana and Orange Courtesy photo
Departure Time: 5:50 p.m. Arrival Time: 6:20 p.m.
Walk-able
Art Discover regional artistry at Orange County’s coastal art walks Huntington Beach Downtown Art Walk
Each third Thursday of the month, established and emerging artists showcase their work throughout sites and businesses in Huntington Beach’s downtown district—Main Street north of Pacific Coast Highway. View visual and performing arts, meet local talent and enjoy live music, food and more once a month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. www.hbdowntown.com. 1
Balboa Island Artwalk
The 21st installation of this Balboa Island summer kick-off event features more than 100 artists exhibiting paintings, jewelry, glassworks, sculpture and photography, among other mediums. Musicians will perform throughout the day along the 1-mile-long event located on South Bayfront Promenade. This year’s event will be held Sunday, May 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.balboaislandartwalk.info. 2
First Thursdays Art Walk
Art is in season all year round at this educational event celebrating Laguna Beach’s diverse arts and culture community. The walk, held the first Thursday of
each month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., features a free trolley service between galleries located in north, central and south Laguna. An art walk guide attends each trolley. www.firstthursdaysartwalk.com. 3
North Beach Art Walk
Rain or shine, this art walk through San Clemente’s eclectic North Beach celebrates the small city’s creative rhythm. Explore North Beach’s galleries and surf shops the second Friday of every month from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Walks begin at Artwistic Creations, 1237 N. El Camino Real, and end at Knuckleheads Sports Bar. www.facebook. com/northbeachartwalk. 4
Village Art Faire
For over a decade San Clemente’s monthly art faire has put Southern California artists and craftspeople in direct contact with the local community. Handcrafted goods, ceramics, photography and glass, metal and wood-works are displayed, and sold, the first Sunday of each month along the city’s downtown passage—Avenida Del Mar—from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.villagesanclemente.org. 5 * All events are free to the public.
Take it to Go
Clockwise from top: Lunch at North Beach. Photo: Andrea Papagianis Monarch Beach Market. Photo: Alex Paris Marbella Farmers Market. Photo: Alex Paris
Grab your meal and go, see, do Longer days and warmer weather call for meals to be had outdoors. With a plethora of beach and hillside parks with unobstructed views of the Pacific and sprawling desert landscapes, there are plenty of views to choose from. So whether you’re looking for a romantic, sunset dinner or a quick lunch for a day at the beach, these local markets serve up sandwiches, salads, sushi and more for every dine on the go occasion.
Make it a Beach Day Snag a sandwich, smoothie or juice from Hanson’s Market and head to North Beach. Bask in the sun or hit the San Clemente Beach Trail and head south toward the Pier. Whatever the activity, Hanson’s has the perfect grab-and-go dining option. Whenever possible, Hanson’s utilizes organic fruits and vegetables— ensuring their juices, like the Sweet Life, and smoothies, with names honoring the market’s San Clemente roots, are truly natural and fresh. Sandwiches too are created with the brightest of ingredients. For a spiced up bite, try the Spicy Riviera where it’s all about the jalapeños. 415 E. Avenida Pico, San Clemente, 949.218.1690, www.hansonsmarket.com.
Saddle Up, Take a Hike For breakfast, lunch, dinner and every snacking in between Marbella Farmers Market has you covered. Hitting the trail by horse, bike or foot? Shop Marbella’s deli counter or craft your own salad. The market is large and the dining options are extensive. Looking for a leisurely walk or ride with a beach picnic as a stop? Load up on a cheese platter, sushi rolls and freshlybaked sweets before heading to Descanso Park where you can catch the San Juan Creek Trail to Doheny State Beach. Or, if you want more of a challenge, head east on Highway 74 to climb Cleveland National Forest’s Sitton Peak. 31109 Rancho Viejo Road, Suite A, San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.1067.
Catch the Setting Sun Long before the city of Dana Point took his name, Richard Henry Dana Jr. described the Headlands as the “only romantic spot on the coast.” Don’t just take his word for it. Experience it. Stop off at Monarch Beach Market to shop wraps, sandwiches, salads, juices, coffees and more before cozying up at one of the city’s bluff-top parks—like Pines or Strand Vista. Grab a slip and create your own, order online or snatch a prepared bite from the cold case and skip the deli-counter wait altogether. 24040 Camino Del Avion, Dana Point, 949.429.8750, www.monarchbeachmarket.com.
Things Every South OC Kid Must Do
Pretend City Children’s Museum
This summer, view artists’ work from the pioneering feminist movement Riot Grrrl and emerging artists living and working in China. Museum admission is free on Fridays. 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport Beach, 949.759.1122, www.ocma.net.
BY ANDREA PAPAGIANIS
It’s a fact: Childhood goes quickly. This summer, revel in the wonder that is growing up. The days of dress-up, superhero lunch boxes and imagination without limit will be gone soon enough. So, embrace fun, educational opportunities by exploring Orange County with these 10 things every kid must do.
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Pacific Marine Mammal Center
Rescue, rehabilitate, release and research. Add educate, inspire and a few sea lions to that list, and the center comes to life. Each day, PMMC staffers rescue seals and sea lions from California’s shores—many dehydrated and in desperate need of nourishment. Seven days a week, visitors—some 45,000 each year—can see firsthand the care these marine mammals receive before they are released back into the wild. “They are our future,” said Mary Beth Steen, the center’s director of development, of young visitors. “You never know when you have a future marine biologist visiting, like our executive director, who believes in educating everyone about the importance of taking care of our ocean.” Educational programs with a focus on environmental stewardship are available year round for children of all ages. 20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.3050, www.pacificmmc.org.
6
Experience a rocket launch at Discovery Cube.
7
Race in the Ocean Festival’s annual Dolphin Dash.
8
Watch art come to life at the Pageant of the Masters.
Then, dig for prehistoric bones, experience historic earthquakes and explore more than 100 hands-on exhibits. Visit before May 10 and embark on an adventure by land, air and sea with LEGO. 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, 714.542.2823, www.discoverycube.org.
Pretend City Children’s Museum
The brilliance behind this mini city is that (almost) nothing is off limits. Youngsters learn through play as they leap into action as a firefighter, sort and deliver mail, earn a paycheck from the construction site and interact with different members of the community. And to encourage discovering diversity outside the museum, guests are introduced to a new family every quarter in the “Our Home” exhibit—be it a single-parent, same-sex or first-generation, immigrant family. “It is a really great message,” said Leslie Perovich, Pretend City’s senior director of advancement. “Even though they don’t look like your family, they are still a family.” This summer Pretend City welcomes Heart and Seoul: Growing Up Korean—an immersive, hands-on exhibit highlighting Korean culture, one of the largest and most rapidly growing populations in Orange County. 29 Hubble, Irvine, 949.428.3900, www.pretendcity.org.
5
Explore art and cultural ideas at the Orange County Museum of Art.
Celebrate the local ecosystem at this actionpacked event with races, and activities, on land and sea. Build a sandcastle, enter the fishing derby and cheer on lifeguard game contestants. The San Clemente Ocean Festival will be held on July 18 and 19. www.oceanfestival.org.
3
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Youth enrichment through the arts is at the core of Segerstrom’s mission. Live performances and free programs introduce the youngest of audiences to the magic and wonder of live theater, film, music and dance. “We hope … that as each show entertains and delights young people, they create happy and memorable shared family experiences and encourage an interest in learning more about the performing arts,” said Terrence Dwyer, SCFTA president. With the addition of a sensory-friendly series, Segerstrom has embraced safeguards to ensure adults and children with autism or sensory sensitivities experience live performance without barriers. The center’s sensory-friendly series opens Sunday, Oct. 25 with “Room on the Broom.” And SCFTA’s popular summer series, Movie Mondays—a five-week, free program—begins July 13 with Little Shop of Horrors. 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.2121, www.scfta.org.
4
OC Fair & Event Center
Explore ancient and modern sources of happiness during these 90-minute theatrical, living pictures or re-creations of artwork. Pageant runs each night at 8:30 p.m. from July 8 to Aug. 31. 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949.494.1145, www.foapom.com.
9
Relive California’s maritime history at the Ocean Institute.
Set sail aboard on the Spirit of Dana Point and live life as a 19th century sailor by moving cargo on the Brig Pilgrim. Then, study area sea life at wet tables and interactive exhibits. 24000 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.496.2274, www.ocean-institute.org.
OC Fair & Event Center
Nothing says summer quite like a trip to the fair. Concerts, food trucks and rides are quintessential warm-weather accompaniments—and the OC Fair serves it all up in droves. At Imaginology—Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead—guests can learn and discover with their hands by creating art, playing with science toys, petting zoo animals and more. The three-day, no-cost festival starts Friday, April 24. May sees the OC Marathon, Gem Faire, Scottish Fest USA, motorcycle racing and OC Night Market—a three-night event with more than 200 vendors. Special events and concerts continue throughout the summer. The fairgrounds also play host to the Orange County Market Place every Saturday and Sunday; a farmers market on Thursdays and Food Truck Fare days, which bring gourmet from-a-truck cuisine on Wednesdays and Thursdays. 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.708.1500, www.ocfair.com.
ZOOMARS Petting Zoo
10
Feed a goat a carrot at ZOOMARS Petting Zoo.
Also, while you’re there, pan for gold, gemstones and fossils like California’s early settlers, hop aboard the mini train for a spin and meet llamas, rabbits, emus and visit the goat pen for a hug. 31791 Los Rios Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.831.6550, www.zoomars.com.
SC SC LIVING San Clemente
PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY
GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50: by Tom Blake
Finding Love in California, Making a Life in Austria
M
y life partner Greta and I are living for a month in a 500-year-old building in Graz, Austria. The apartment where we are staying is owned by the Schachners, a couple who met at the DMV in Fresno. Christian is Austrian. His wife, Jai, is an American citizen who was born on the Laos/Thailand border. While not my typical “after 50” tale, I wanted to share their story that shows how love can overcome distance. In 2008, Jai was living in Fresno. Her purse had been stolen so she was at the DMV to get a replacement driver’s license. Christian, who purchases antique American cars and sells them in Austria, was in Fresno registering an old Cadillac. He and Jai were in line next to each other. They had just enough time to tell each other a little about their backgrounds. He asked for her phone number and they started dating. Soon, however, he had to return to Austria. The odds of this 6,100-mile long-distance relationship working were against them. They corresponded. Christian returned to Fresno a few times for more cars and to see Jai. He wanted her to visit Austria. Since
arriving in the United States as a young child, she had never been out of the country. She didn’t even own a passport. Due to paperwork issues, getting a passport took her months. Christian didn’t know for sure, ON LIFE AND LOVE AFTER 50 but he thought she might By Tom Blake be dragging her feet and probably didn’t really want to visit Austria. One day he emailed, “I really would love for you to visit.” She shocked him by replying, “Send me a ticket.” She spent three weeks visiting Christian in Graz. In March 2012, they married in Las Vegas. He wore traditional Austrian Lederhosen for the wedding. Jai and her daughter, Maddie, packed their things and moved to Graz. Jai said, “At first, it was hard, I didn’t speak German. But now, I love living in Graz.” Maddie now has a baby brother named James. How did Greta and I meet them and why are we living in their home? There is a website called homeexchange.com. On that website, people can trade their home/apart-
Jai Schachner has decorated their home with proverbs and little sayings in every room. We like this one the best. Photo: Tom Blake
homes. In December 2014, Christian, Jai, Maddie and James stayed in Greta’s San Clemente home for the holidays. And now, we are staying at their home in Graz. While we are here, they are living at Christian’s father’s farm outside of town. We have been in Graz, the second largest city in Austria, for a week and love it. The city’s central tram station is 100 yards away. The main train station is less than a half mile away. There is no need to rent a car or drive anywhere. There are a variety of restaurants within walking distance. I will be blogging our trip at www. travelafter55.com. I hope you will follow us and email your comments. Tom Blake is a retired Dana Point business owner and San Clemente resident who has authored books on middle-aged dating. See his website at www.findingloveafter50. com. To comment: tompblake@gmail.com. SC
ment/ranch—where ever they live—for an agreed upon period of time with people who own living accommodations as well. People from different countries often exchange
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.
SC LIVING
Striking the Right Tone
Sunday bell choir concert raises funds for Family Assistance Ministries BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
L
isteners will get the opportunity to hear something as clear as a bell Sunday at St. Andrew’s-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, 2001 Calle Frontera. The San Clemente Community Handbell Choir and its young offshoot, the Heavy Metal Youth Handbell Choir, will present their fourth annual spring concert “Ringing on the Stairway to Heaven,” at 4 p.m. A free-will offering, with proceeds going to Family Assistance Ministries, will be the only cost. Sharon Guilliams, one of the founders of the group, hosts weekly practices in her garage. “I started doing this right after I graduated college,” Guilliams said. “I played in the UCI pep band (clarinet, bass clarinet and baritone saxophone) and they let alumni play, but I knew eventually they wouldn’t want some gray-haired lady in the pep band. I was going to Red Hill Lutheran Church (in Tustin) and joined their handbell choir.” The bells produce a single tone, and are set up like keys on a piano, Guilliams explained. The challenge for those playing in the choir is that rather than being responsible for a full melody or harmony line, as those playing other instruments or singing might be, each player is responsible only for one or two notes, which means that the ringers must be able to count beats precisely. “You’re very interdependent on one another,” Guilliams said. “You have to keep your internal rhythm going very well. If someone else messes up, you still have to keep the internal clock.” The choir also consistently shifts to different bells on different songs, not only to account for individual strengths and weaknesses, but also to combat boredom In addition to their own events, the choir performs at Casa Romantica, Holly Jolly Hoopla and Christmas parties for various organizations. “We’re always looking for places to play, because we work hard,” Guilliams said.
Members of the San Clemente Community Handbell Choir Sabrina Vasta (L to R) Sharon Guilliams and Emily Bredthauer rehearse for Sunday’s concert in Guilliams’ garage. Photo: Jim Shilandert
Sabrina Vasta is the newest member of the group, coming on board a few months ago. She also serves as associate pastor of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Dana Point. She has been playing the bells, however, since she was a young girl. “Once you get into, you find avenues for it,” she said. “In college and in grad school, I always found churches that had bell choirs or a school bell choir.” Vasta said she appreciates the San Clemente group because of the variety of music being played—more than just sacred tunes—but also because it represents a number of different age groups. The level of play also sets it apart, she said, since nearly all members have a great deal of experience. “They’ve been together, or at least the
Morgan McMillian and Janet Prideaux play their parts on the handbells. Photo: Jim Shilander
core group, for so long, which means you can play harder and harder pieces,” she said. “If you have different people joining all the time, you have to stay at a lower level because people are learning the basics. Here, people have more than that, so you can play more advanced pieces.” Emily Bredthauer has been playing with the choir for three years. She had been playing with the St. Andrew’s handbell choir, often as a substitute before joining on a permanent basis. Like, Vasta, she’d also been playing from an early age, when a choir director who knew she read music and could keep time, roped her into a church group. “What I enjoy most is the ensemble, being all together,” Bredthauer said. “When we get it, we all get it. It’s an instrument that you play on your own, within your own part, but you’re really working as a team. If one of us is out, the melody jumps.” The group has a mother-daughter team as well, Melissa and Katie James. Melissa had played years ago, at her old church, for about six months. Her daughter then became involved with a handbell program at her school and was in the children’s handbell choir before being invited to join the adult group. “I decided to join because I would just be sitting here (during rehearsals) reading or knitting or whatever. So I joined as well,” Melissa said. While both enjoy playing together, the arrangement works better, Melissa said, now that they stand apart from one another during rehearsals. “Katie’s ver y gifted musically, and since I’m her Mom I think she’s a little tougher on me than she needs to be,” she said. “She was picking up parts I was missing or mistakes I was making. But it’s fun. We have a good time.” Members of the youth group have also taken time to create care packages for FAM clients as part of the lead up to the concert. SC
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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
BOOKS
Village Books
99 Avenida Serra, 949.492.1114, www.DowntownSanClemente.com
CHIROPRACTIC
Thompson Chiropractic
629 Camino De Los Mares, Suite 104, 949.240.1334, www.thompson-chiro.com
CHOCOLATE/CANDY
Schmid’s Fine Chocolate
99 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1052, www.schmidschocolate.com
CONCRETE
Costa Verde Landscape
Lic.: 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
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Arcadia Electric
949.361.1045, www.arcadiaelectric.com
FURNITURE
South Coast Furniture & Mattress
109 Calle de los Molinos, 949.492.5589, www.southcoastfurniture.com
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IMAGES/Creative Solutions
117 Del Gado Road, 949.366.2488, www.imgs.com
HARP LESSONS & RENTALS
Wendy-Harpist
949.482.9025, www.orangecountyharpist.com
HEATING
Oasis Heating & Air
31648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, 949.420.1321, www.oasisair.com
HOME DÉCOR
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Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD
1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, 949.361.4867 (GUMS), www.moranperio.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
REAL ESTATE
Marcie George Star Real Estate South County
949.690.5410, marciegeorge@cox.net
Salon Bleu
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217 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. E, 949.361.9006, www.syrens.com
SCHOOLS
Capistrano Valley Christian Schools
32032 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.5683, www.cvcs.org
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SWIMMING SCHOOL
Waterbabies Swim School
142 Avenida Granada, 949.488.2512, www.waterbabiesswimschool.com
TERMITES
Colony Termite Control
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San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
Page 19
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SC LIVING
The Watershed Task Force Booth was manned by (L to R) Danna McIntosh, environmental services coordinator for San Clemente; Bill Hart, Watershed Task Force chairman; task force members Bill Vasilauskas and George Gooch; and Ron Perugini, the organization’s vice chairman. Photo: Andrea Swayne
Joslyn Montoya and Adrian Arms were signing up customers for Farm Fresh to You, a customized home produce box delivery service, featuring USDA and California certified organic, California grown fruits and vegetables. Photo: Andrea Swayne
‘Earth’ Angels Watershed Taskforce and other organizations celebrate Earth Day BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
H
undreds made their way to the San Clemente Pier for the annual Earth Day cleanup and celebration Saturday. In addition to learning about companies and organizations focused on improv-
ing the environment, the Watershed Task Force also honored a trio of companies with its Blue Water Award, recognizing companies making an extra effort for the environment—Lowe’s, Layton Construction and E. Stewart and Associates. SC
The band Gratitude performs at Earth Day San Clemente. Photo: Andrea Swayne
Sheila Martin displays a selection of crystals, fossils and gemstones from her store Designs by Nature. Photo: Andrea Swayne
Shore Gardens’ Brian Keely was introducing visitors to some of the nursery’s selection of drought tolerant, California friendly and native plants. Photo: Andrea Swayne
(L to R) San Clemente Tree Foundation President Patricia Holloway, Madisyn Fisher and Lisa Goff were giving away 100 free trees in honor of Earth Day. Photo: Andrea Swayne
Sudoku BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:
Jackson Thime, 9, gets crafty in the Kid’s Play Area at Earth Day San Clemente. Photo: Andrea Swayne
San Clemente Times April 23–29, 2015
Artist Alan Nowell demonstrated his plein air painting style. Photo: Andrea Swayne
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 Page 20
See today’s solution in next week’s issue.
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SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente
STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE
Q&A With Surfing Icon and 2015 SC Hall of Fame Inductee John Severson BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
J
ohn Severson landed in San Clemente at the age of 12 and spent his formative years immersed in beach and surf culture. As the years went by, he became a regular at all the local spots, picking up the tricks of the surfing trade from lifeguards and scrounging up enough money to pursue his many passions. Severson would go on to become an influential filmmaker, author, photographer and painter, responsible for not only some iconic surf images, but for founding SURFER magazine. His artwork and photographs have appeared in many popular outlets, including Sports Illustrated and Life magazine. His films, Surfing Safari, Big Wednesday and Pacific Vibrations, to name a few, helped revolutionize the way surf culture was presented on screen. Severson was also an accomplished big wave surfer and his latest book, Surf, chronicles his journey through surf’s golden age. On May 16, the Friends of San Clemente will induct Severson into the San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame. We caught up with Severson, who lives in Hawaii, via email to reflect on his storied career, what San Clemente surf culture was like in the ’60s and talk about his inspirations for such a prolific, artistic life. SAN CLEMENTE TIMES: You were born and raised in Pasadena and moved to San Clemente when you were still young. What were your fist impressions of San Clemente back then? JOHN SEVERSON: I had just turned 12. I was not very impressed with San Clemente, as it drizzled every day for our first two weeks and thousands of Marines roamed the streets, just out of the war, waiting for the next bus home. But the sweet little town grew on me, attaining full glory by my first summer as a pier gremmie. SCT: What was surf culture like in San Clemente back when you first got into it? JS: The surf culture basically passed by SC on the way to San Onofre. A few of the guys slept down by the State Park in “the Hole.” We learned about surfing from the lifeguards. There was a staff of about four in 1946. They covered the Pier, Trafalgar Overpass and Doheny. (Lifeguard) Dave Tansey had a water-soaked balsa/redwood that weighed in the neighborhood of 100 pounds and he would let us ride it, or at least try to. Most of us couldn’t lift it. Throughout the summer we bodysurfed, rode mats and played volleyball, soaking up surf stories and hitch-hiking San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
John Severson, circa 1969. Severson founded SURFER magazine. Photo: Courtesy John Severson
John Severson’s latest book “Surf” chronicles the images and times of surfing’s golden age. Photo: Courtesy John Severson
John Severson is also known for designing alohaprint shirts, like the one he is wearing here. Photo: Courtesy John Severson.
occasional rides to ‘Nofre. We strummed our ukes at the beach parties and wooed the visiting State Park sweeties. SCT: You are obviously a very creative guy. At what point did you decide you wanted to devote yourself to the surf arts and why? JS: In my book (Surf), I tell about the lecture from my Dad. Basically, (he said) ‘Look out for that beach life or you’ll end up living in a shack and just fishing and surfing.’ ‘Whoo-man’, I thought, that’s just what I want to do. I figured I could
continue my art and sell a few paintings to support the shack life. About that time I grabbed my mom’s throw-away Brownie and started my surf photography career. Then Bob Miller traded me out of my trumpet for a 16-mm movie camera and another dazzling hobby was launched. SCT: You started SURFER magazine. What was the catalyst for that? Did you feel there was a lack of surfers being represented in the mainstream at the time? JS: Mainstream media hardly noticed Page 22
us. Surfing got more coverage on pineapple cans than in the press. And I certainly wasn’t trying to get even with the press. I had advanced to surf films and was more interested in creating an homage to surfing—a celebration of the fun of it and the thrill of big wave riding. I thought it might stoke the interest in my next film, at least. SCT: Right, but it seemed like the majority of what was being represented as surf culture at the time was “Beach Boys”-centric and then other things, like your movies and SURFER, started popping up shining a different light on it. Was that at least a part of the initial goal you set out to achieve? JS: My motivation was to pay for the lifestyle and surf, like most of the guys in the early surf biz. We were not crusaders and not very interested in “growing the sport.” We were not particularly thrilled with Hollywood’s portrayal of surfing in the Gidget and Beach Blanket films, nor the corny Beach Boys stuff. We didn’t aim to get it right. We just knew what was happening and how to portray it for us. Of course, we lampooned the mainstream media. SCT: Surf media, like all sports media, has grown into such a juggernaut now, with constant news updates and the sharing of images. Do you feel the state of surf media is in a good place right now? JS: I don’t pay enough attention to be considered an authority. The depiction of surfing is certainly dazzling and understandably, surf spot names are often withheld. At times it seems so far from the old days of sharing waves … ‘You take this one.’ SCT: What is it about surf and surf culture that lends itself to being so powerful on film and in photographs? JS: Surfing certainly lends itself to graphic portrayal, and it continues to look fresh. We don’t do it on asphalt, we don’t bogie waves and it’s so beautiful. For a few brief moments, we’re in a wonderful harmony with nature. We glide and carve on and in the magic of wave. It glistens all around us, and we’re suckers for sparkle. SCT: How does it feel to be inducted into the San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame where you join other legendary surf icons? JS: I feel appreciated for exactly the reasons a few early citizens might have wanted to throw me out of town: ‘Throw the surf bums out.’ We always knew we were just seeing what was right in our front yard, appreciating it and played in it. We were stoked. I’m related to another Hall of Famer (niece’s daughter’s husband), Karch Kiraly. That’s big league company. SC www.sanclementetimes.com
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
Triton Report BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
For in-game updates, scores, news and more for all of the San Clemente High School spring sports programs, follow us on Twitter @SouthOCsports.
Triton Golfers Make Big Shots to Claim Estancia Tournament Title One big shot after another propelled the San Clemente boys golf team past the rest of the field at the Estancia Tournament on April 20, culminating in a winning score of 80 points. As opposed to most golf tournament scoring formats in which the lowest golfer, or team, relative to par wins, the Estancia Tournament uses a Stableford system, which awards points to certain scores on holes. That places a premium on making pars, birdies or, in the Tritons case, even lower scores. The Tritons benefitted from a huge point-getting performance from senior Sammy Schwartz, who knocked in a hole-in-one on the par-3 sixth hole at Mesa Verde Country Club to earn 10 points. Schwartz led the team with 26 total points. Junior Austin Briggs had an eagle on his card and Jan Prerovsky contributed 21 points. San Clemente finished 11 points clear of second-place Sunny Hills and was one point short of tying the tournament points
record of 81. The Tritons returned to league play on April 21 and lost to Tesoro, 189-197.
Tritons Volleyball Eyes Fourth Straight Win Since being swept by rival Dana Hills on April 2, the San Clemente boys volleyball team made short work of their next three opponents. The Tritons (16-3, 4-1 league) swept Laguna Hills and picked up another win on April 16 by taking down Tesoro in four sets, 25-22, 23-25, 25-21, 25-22. Brandon Hopper led the team with 16 kills, Markus McGuire had 23 assists and Liam Walsh recorded 20 digs in the win. Another three-set sweep of Trabuco Hills followed on April 21. The Tritons will host El Toro in a nonleague match April 23.
Baseball Sweeps Mustangs Despite surrendering eight hits and one walk, San Clemente junior pitcher Andre Pallante was able to minimize the damage in his start against Trabuco Hills on April 15, pitching six innings in a 4-2 win. It was the first of two wins in a row for San Clemente (17-4, 5-1 league), who sit in second place in the Sea View League standings. In the second game of the series on April 17, the Tritons came back from a one-run deficit in the sixth inning by erupting for three runs and a 4-2 lead. Senior Will Tribucher pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing five hits and one walk while striking out five. Tribucher improved his record to a perfect 4-0 on the season and owns a sparkling 1.47 ERA.
From L to R: Kian Feiner, Ryan McSweeney, AVP pro Ed Ratledge, Jody Eib and Josh Block at the CBVA junior contest on April 18. Photo: Courtesy
Scoreboard SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
YOUTH VOLLEYBALL Two local beach volleyball duos had strong finishes at the second event of the 16U California Beach Volleyball Association’s junior contest at Huntington State Beach on April 18. The combo of Josh Block and Jody Eib from San Clemente lost only one match on the day and finished first. San Clemente’s Kian Feiner and Capistrano Valley’s Andrew McSweeney took second place at the event.
Senior Dylan Riddle went 3-7 with three RBI and one run scored over the twogame set. San Clemente was set to play a nonleague double header against Dana Hills on April 22 at Saddleback College. Results were not available at press time.
Tritons Lacrosse Head Down Important Stretch
Sammy Schwartz recorded a hole-in-one at the Estancia Tournament on April 20. Photo: Steve Breazeale
San Clemente Times April 23-29, 2015
At 3-2 in South Coast League play, the San Clemente boys lacrosse team will have to win out and hope for Trabuco Hills to stumble across the finish line if the Tritons are to retain their league championship. San Clemente (8-13, 3-2) traveled to play first-place Trabuco Hills (12-2, 5-1) for the rubber match in their season series on April 17 and the Mustangs won, 13-5. The loss leaves the Tritons in second place with three games left on the schedule. The first tilt will be at home against Aliso Niguel on April 23. The Wolverines (8-6, 3-3) have proven to be a tough out this season and defeated San Clemente 11-7 back on March 26. San Clemente will close out the season with games against Capistrano Valley and third-place Tesoro (5-9, 4-3). Page 24
Marshall Commits to San Francisco State University San Clemente High School’s winningest wrestler in program history, Mike Marshall, handed in his National Letter of Intent to continue his wrestling career at San Francisco State University on April 15, according to head coach Mark Calentino. Marhsall had a stellar senior season to close out his high school career, placing fi fth at the State of California championships and ended the year with a 48-9 overall record, including 38 pins. He was San Clemente’s Mike Marshall holds up his National Letter of voted the Intent to San Francisco State South Coast University. Photo: Courtesy League wrestler of the year. Marshall wrestled all four years for the Tritons and holds the program mark for most wins with 160. www.sanclementetimes.com
SC San Clemente
SC SURF
SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:
SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY
GROM OF THE WEEK
JOEY MADISON
J
(L to R) Mickey Munoz, Barrett Tester and Jim Kempton, kick off the 6th annual Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup stand-up paddling event, Saturday at Baby Beach. Photo: Bill Schildge
Mongoose Cup is what’s SUP Sixth annual paddling festival continues to grow, thrive
BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES
T
he Mickey Munoz Mongoose Cup has been gaining popularity each year for five years and with inevitable “growing pains,” the sixth annual stand-up paddling event, held Saturday at Baby Beach, nearly didn’t happen, organizers said. “With growth came a need for things like electronic chip timing, increased lifeguarding staff, new permitting fees and moving away from running in conjunction with the Festival of Whales, which all had an impact on expenses,” said event director Barrett Tester. A benefactor of the fundraising event since last year, The Sport of Kings Foundation found out about the need for funding approximately six weeks before the event and went to work, this time as
A youth SUP racer rounds a buoy. Photo: Bill Schildge
a sponsor, to find the funds and other sponsorship needed. With their help, the event secured sponsorship from Salt Life, Dodge Ram Trucks, Wahoo’s Fish Tacos and Damian Collins, who volunteered to host the after party at his restaurant, Waterman’s Harbor. “It was an unforgettable day. There’s no way to describe how great it was. We have such an amazing community and we all just came together for a great day of SUP, friendship and family,” said Vicki Patterson, Sport of Kings Board member and an event organizer. “We want to thank the sponsors and also give special props
oey Madison, 11, is a sixth-grader at Shorecliffs Middle School. He not only competes in Scholastic Surf Series events as part of his school team, he also surfs in the Volcom VQS, Soul Surf Series and the Western Surfing Association Championship Tour. Joey started surfing at the age of 8, because his mom surfs and he saw how much fun it looked when watching her and others. “I asked my mom if I could get a surf coach and she said, ‘yes,’” Joey said. “I got Rick Yeomans for about a year and then I got Andy Fomenko. He’s still my coach. My mom gives me pointers too.” In school, he is an A and B student who enjoys learning to speak Spanish under the tutelage of his favorite teacher, Señor Hennings (Dave Hennings) who is also his team surf coach. Joey has dreams of someday being a pro surfer on the World Tour and practices every day in pursuit of that goal. He would also like to be a water photographer when he grows up. His other to Performance Paddling, World Paddle Association and the Paddle Academy for their help in making the event a success as well.” According to Tester, this year’s event had 127 paid participants. The day included free adaptive paddling for invitees from the Wounded Warrior Project, races, demonstrations, SUP yoga, clinics, food and fun. “The way the Sport of Kings Foundation Board and other sponsors rallied to support the Mongoose Cup’s growth made this great event even better and further strengthened the community vibe,” Tester said. “This has become such an important event to the SUP community, especially the up-and-coming youth SUP racers. It’s a true community event and we thank all who helped make it happen.” For a photo slideshow and full results, visit www.sanclementetimes.com. SC
Joey Madison. Photo: Jack McDaniel
interests include skateboarding and “doing projects like building stuff or making art.” Joey’s favorite pro surfers are Kolohe Andino, because “he’s a really good surfer and inspiring,” and Jamie O’Brien, because “he’s really funny, does board transfers and charges Pipeline on soft tops.” He said he owes much of his surfing success to his family, teachers, coaches and friends. “I really want to thank my mom and dad for supporting me, taking me to the beach every day, twice a day,” Joey said. “And I want to thank Bob Martin, my friend Ryan’s dad, because he always helps me with my surf contests and gives me a lot of pointers.” —Andrea Swayne
SURF FORECAST Water Temperature: 58-62 degrees F Thursday and Friday: Fun-zone combo of S/SSE swell and NW swell-mix eases through the end of the work week, as some new SW swell moves in. The blend is good for waist-chest-shoulder high surf for better breaks, with sets going shoulder-head high+ for standout combo spots around the proper tides Thursday. Size is down slightly Friday. Shape is peaky for the exposed beachbreaks, though a little drained early each morning. Look for light/variable winds early, rising to light to moderate levels from the West in the afternoons. Skies are overcast early before partially clearing. Longer Range Outlook: Inconsistent SW swell holds through the weekend as modest NW swell-mix winds down. Fun-zone surf continues for good breaks, with the most size on Saturday. Check out Surfline for more details, daily updates, and the longer range outlook!