May 14, 2015

LO C A L

N EWS

May 14–20, 2015

YO U

C A N

U S E

UltraMarathoner Dean Karnazes to Enter SC Hall of Fame PAGE 26 VOLUME 10, ISSUE 20

Questions Linger

Removal of San Clemente High School principal sparks anger and confusion EYE ON SC/PAGE 7

Questions remain about the sudden removal of popular San Clemente High School Principal Mike Halt last week.

Due to district policies preventing discussion of personnel issues, little light can be shed, at least for now. Photo: Allison Jarrell

Local Hoteliers Get Look at Human Trafficking EYE ON SC/PAGE 3

City Honors Top Local Volunteers at Luncheon SC LIVING/PAGE 20

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Surfing America Prime Season Wraps at HB Pier SC SURF/PAGE 30

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SC EYE ON SC San Clemente

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What’s Up With...

way earlier this year.

Gallardo-Daly has served in several cities, most recently in the Development Services Department for the city of San Diego. Her 12-year tenure there included overseeing discretionary engineering, zoning review, CEQA implementation, historic preservation, transportation planning and the implementation of a Local Coastal Plan (which San Clemente is currently working on).

The position oversees the planning, building and code compliance divisions of the city.

Five things San Clemente should know this week Local Hoteliers Get Look at Human Trafficking Issues THE LATEST: Members of the new Interstate 5 Freedom Network gave local hotel operators a look at a dark part of the world Thursday, providing the first in a series of educational events that spotlighted human trafficking in Orange County and what hotel operators and employees could look for to spot the practice.

Speakers included officials and educators from the Department of Homeland Security and the Orange County Human Trafficking Task Force.

“There’s been a shift from the brothel to hotels,” Brenda Wells, who helped organize the event, said. “Hotel managers can be the eyes and ears. It’s where the people are.”

Camille Coronel, a training coordinator for the task force, said with the passage of Proposition 35 in 2012, which provided tougher sentences for human and sex trafficking, the issue has come more to the forefront. Cornel said in her experience, most female prostitutes were actually trafficking victims, which includes women from other countries as well as domestic victims. Orange County, she said, is considered a prime location for the trafficking business because of its number of tourist attractions which brings so many to the area.

WHAT’S NEXT: Kyla Smith, who works at the Dream Center in Los Angeles, an organization that hosts outreach programs for human trafficking victims, said she has seen women having to prostitute themselves at all sorts of hotels, from small local motels to high end resorts.

Hotel operators, she said, should look out for people coming in without luggage or who leave all sorts of items behind in the hotel. Many victims, she said, do not see themselves as such, despite a history of abuse, both physical and emotional.

Hotel operators asked what they could take to help potential victims while avoiding drawing the ire of gangs or others who might operate trafficking rings. Coronel said there are subtle ways of informing the task force and other law enforcement about what might be happening.

The group will be meeting again later this month. – Jim Shilander San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

WHAT’S NEXT: Gallardo-Daly will begin work Tuesday, May 26.

“It’s a privilege to serve the city of San Clemente. I am looking forward to working with my staff, management, commissions and City Council. San Clemente is truly a great city and I am delighted to be a part of the management team,” Gallardo-Daly said in the news release. – JS

Resident Christy MacBride-Hart demonstrates the size of proposed “top knots” for the Interstate 5 overpass at the May 5 City Council meeting. Photo: Jim Shilander

Clemente’s adopted units remain missing after delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nepal.

The six, from Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, along with two service members from Nepal, were aboard a UH-1Y Huey, which went missing Tuesday while assisting victims near Charikot, Nepal. The mission was a part of Joint Task Force 505, which is spearheading relief operations, according to a Department of Defense press release.

Council to Consider Farmers Market Proposals THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council will consider potential changes to the weekly farmers market on Avenida Del Mar at its meeting Tuesday, May 19.

The council was scheduled to consider whether putting out a request for proposal to allow for new operators at the market or extend the current operators, Rick and Sandy Heil and Jan Peverill, for another term.

WHAT’S NEXT: Two additional helicopters from the unit, as well as a pair of tilt-rotor aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 262 flew almost two dozen sorties in search efforts. A Nepalese ground force is also participating in the effort.

Both HMLA-469 and Second Battalion, Fourth Marines have been stationed in the Pacific since last year, primarily participating in training efforts with allies.

WHAT’S NEXT: The council had considered such a move in 2013, but opted to keep the contract with the Heils and Peverill for another two-year term. At the meeting, during which potential changes were discussed, several vendors spoke in favor of the Heils’ continued management, with Rick Heil noting the difficulty in keeping up a Certified Farmers Market. Residents who opposed the renewal of the contract said they wished to see additional offerings or an expansion of the current operations.

The contract is scheduled to end Dec. 31, but the council asked at its last meeting to take it up early. The city receives $300 per month to allow the market to operate. – JS

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

City Appoints New Community Development Director

Adopted Unit’s Helicopter Missing in Nepal THE LATEST: Six Marines from one of San

THE LATEST: San Clemente has its new Community Development Director.

City Manager James Makshanoff announced the appointment of Cecilia Gallardo-Daly to the post, which was opened by the retirement of Jim Hollo-

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“Top Knots” Proposed for Pico Bridge Draw Ire THE LATEST: The San Clemente City Council may soon bring in an official from CalTrans to discuss the proposed addition of eight “top knot” structures to the Avenida Pico Interstate 5 overpass, which some residents are saying are too large and will ruin sightlines.

Christy MacBride-Hart created a toscale version of the proposed structures when she spoke to City Council at its May 5 meeting. The eight structures, four on each side of the bridge, would block view corridors, she said, and, at 95 cubic feet in size and nearly seven tons in weight, could cause a danger if they were to collapse due to a truck collision or other accident.

MacBride-Hart said the proposed architectural features, while approved by the city planning commission, did not get a true vetting because of a lack of a visual simulation of how the proposal would look for drivers on the road.

WHAT’S NEXT: At the close of its meeting, City Council members agreed that CalTrans or Orange County Transportation Authority staff should come to the board to review whether to continue with the proposed design. – JS

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••• Send your suggestions to editorial@sanclementetimes.com. www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY JIM SHILANDER

Saturday Night Live Bingo at Senior Center The Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente, 117 Avenida Victoria, will present a bingo night on Saturday, June 27. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. and Bingo starts at 4 p.m. $100 game prizes sponsored by MemorialCare Medical Group will be presented. There will also be a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Cost is $45 per person (must be 18 years or older) and includes a dinner by Carbonara’s Trattoria Italiana, four cards for each game and two drink tickets for your choice of wine, beer, soda or water. All proceeds benefit the Dorothy Visser Senior Center activities program. For more information, call the center at 949.498.3322.

Shorecliffs and Our Savior’s Lutheran Students Win at History Day California State History Day took place May 8 and 9 at William Jessup University in Rocklin. The contest included hundreds of students from all over the state. Shorecliffs Middle School students Jack Hirsh, Andrew De Koeyer, and Matthew Herrod were division finalists with their exhibit titled “Nixon’s Leadership and the Legacy of Vietnamization.” Shorecliffs students Kate McKernan, Kelly McDonald, and Sophia Burick were division winners with their website, “Norman Borlaug: A Legacy of a Billion Lives Saved.” The website group will go on to compete at National History Day at the University of Maryland in June.

Kayla Scopaz, Jessika Ephraim, teacher Pamela Klevit, Zane Pert of Our Savior’s Lutheran School. The students took home prizes at this weekend’s history competition. Photo: Courtesy

Several elementary school students from Our Savior’s Lutheran School were also state winners (Elementary students do not compete at the national competition.

Zane Pert won for “Individual 2D Display” for his project “John Muir: Father of Our National Parks” and Jessika Ephraim and Kayla Scopaz won in the Group 2D Display-Elementary category for their project “Jane Addams: The Hull House.”

National History Day will include thousands of students from all over the United States, Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and international schools in China, Korea and South Asia.

NCL Chapter Presented with National Recognition The Capistrano Coast Chapter of the National Charity League was awarded The Outstanding Chartered Chapter of 2015 at the national NCL conference in Seattle on April 24, 2015. National President Shawn Sylvia presented the award to chapter President Eileen Vansell. Also in attendance from the Capistrano Coast chapter was incoming President Rina Benrubi, President-Elect Jennifer Wyckoff and Policies Chair Shelly Toole.

The Capistrano Coast chapter has been an active NCL chapter for 35 years and was awarded The Outstanding Chartered Chapter of 2015 from a total of 202 chapters across the United States. The award was given for the implementation of the chapter’s 2014-15 theme: “The Power of WE is Stronger than the Power of ME!” National Charity League, Inc. is a mother/daughter organization dedicated to serving local philanthropies while fostering the mother/daughter relationship. Mothers and daughters commit to a six-year program, centered on community service. The members participate in philanthropic work, educational activities, leadership development and cultural enrichment. The Capistrano Coast Chapter of NCL supports 28 charitable organizations throughout the community, some of which include FAM, Boys and Girls Club of Capistrano Valley, Orange County Special Olympics, Women Helping Women, U.S. Military Support and JF Shea Therapeutic Riding Center.

Friends of the Library Hosting Tile Fundraiser The San Clemente Friends of the Library have begun a tile fundraiser titled “Joy of Reading.” Six designs, created by members of the San Clemente Art Association, are available. The tiles will be installed on the wall outside the new Friends of the Library bookstore next to the library. The tiles are available for a $150 tax deductible donation, and a name can be added. There are a limited number of tiles available. The group also has a new website: www.sanclementefotl.org, with more information on the fundraiser.

Have something interesting for the community? Send your information to editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

Community Meetings THURSDAY, MAY 14

San Clemente City Council

4 p.m. Special meeting regarding city budget. City Hall, Council Chambers, 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

Coastal Advisory Committee

7 p.m. Regular meeting. Community Center—Ole Hanson Room, 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 19

City Council Meeting

6 p.m. Regular meeting in City Hall Council Chambers. 100 Avenida Presidio, 949.361.8200, www.san-clemente.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, MAY 20

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.

Planning Commission

7 p.m., City Hall, Council Chambers.

100 Avenida Presidio, www.san-clemente.org.

SOCGEMS Meeting

Each year, the Automotive Technology Partnership Academy at San Clemente High School sets aside a night for the Academy’s participating { IN S A N CLE M E NTE } partners and community to come together. This year’s event was held Thursday, May 7. The Academy stages a car show and ends with a motivational speaker to encourage and give insight to the many possible careers in the automotive industry.

This year’s speaker was John Anderson from Toyota Racing, an SCHS alum.

Photo Jim Shilander

SCENE

San Clemente Times May 14-20, 2015

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7:15 p.m. The South Orange County Gem & Mineral Society Meeting meets the third Wednesday of the month in the Multi-Purpose Room at the Community Center. Includes a program on tumbling stones, techniques and tips. Guests welcome.

Refreshments served. 100 N. Calle Seville, 949.498.8358, www.socgems.org.

www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

Questions Linger Reasons for SCHS principal’s removal remain a mystery

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

A

week after a Capistrano Unified School District news release confirmed that Principal Michael Halt would not be returning to San Clemente High School for the remainder of the school year—and would not be retained for the following year—parents, staff and students are largely still wondering why.

Part of this is due to the district’s own policies, which prevent district personnel from publicly discussing personnel matters. But it also has to do with a sense of disbelief shared among many in the community that Halt had been embraced by.

Deni Christensen, the school’s assistant principal for guidance, will finish the year as interim principal, the district announced in the same release.

“The District has rigorous standards for principals and other administrators as well as a fair and relevant system for evaluating their performance,” the release stated.

“Principals or administrators who are not meeting the district’s rigorous standards are provided assistance to improve their performance… The district does not take the decision to non-reelect administrators lightly.”

The district’s standards are based on the Association of California School Administrators California Professional Standards for Educational Leaders, which set six criteria (available in the online version of this story) for principals.

Because Halt came from outside the district, he was subject to a two-year probationary period before a decision could be made on his future employment with CUSD. The release sent by the district indicated a decision had been made prior to March 15 to not return Halt to the post for next year.

Halt released a statement Wednesday thanking students for his time at the school.

“It has been both an honor and a privilege working at San Clemente High School, and I have loved living and learning in this community,” Halt wrote. “The students and staff at SCHS are second to none, and I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together; our record of success speaks for itself. If I could share one final thought with my students, parents and staff it would be this: please do not view this parting of ways as a discount against the amazing work we have done together.

My departure is not based on your lack of achievements or results, so each of you should be proud of what you have accomplished and contributed to this school.”

Current Aliso Niguel High School

San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

San Clemente High School student Victoria Mendez speaks out in favor of principal Michael Halt at Friday’s Beachside Chat. Photo: Andrea Swayne

Principal Chris Carter, a San Clemente resident, was announced as the new permanent principal, effective at the end of the school year. In an email sent to parents at the same time as the decision, Carter said he is looking forward to the opportunity.

“San Clemente is my home, and my family and I are Tritons,” Carter wrote. “I will focus on leading a rigorous instructional program and enhancing systems to support all students to elevate our school to the highest levels of achievement. Serving as your principal provides me with the unique opportunity to lead the school that I entrust to my own children’s education.”

On Friday, approximately 100 people, mostly parents but including students, rallied in support of Halt at the SC Times’ weekly Beachside Chat at Café Calypso, at which District Superintendent Kirsten Vital was the guest speaker.

“It’s baffling to us that during the term of our former superintendent Joe Farley, Mike Halt was a superstar principal, and when we got a new superintendent, Mike Halt suddenly became problematic,” parent Anna Mendez said in a prepared statement, which included questions about rumored political motivations behind Halt’s removal. “The fact that Mike has so many accomplishments to his name, is so very respected by the community and is dismissed within six weeks of the school year ending, and the fact that the school board did not anticipate such an uprising, demonstrates that the school board is completely out of touch with the community they’re supposed to be serving.”

“I understand and hear your frustration, I hear the sadness and the hurt,” Vital said in response to questions over Halt’s removal.

“The reality is that I can’t answer the very questions of ‘why’ that you all want. I can’t do it under the laws of the state of California. I would like to, but I cannot.”

Many parents said they want Halt restored to his position, or, at the very least,

to be invited to graduation in order to congratulate the seniors. That suggestion was also made by San Clemente trustee John Alpay, in a letter released Friday (printed in this week’s edition). Alpay criticized the district’s lack of communication with parents regarding the removal.

“The lack of official communication regarding his termination for almost six days caused a great amount of unnecessary yet completely understandable discontent, confusion and anger,” Alpay wrote. “The ability to put Michael Halt on leave for the remainder of the school year and duration of his contract is the Superintendent’s prerogative. I do not support her action. It was a blunder of monumental proportions.”

However, fellow trustee Amy Hanacek, who sent her own children to San Clemente schools, disagreed with Alpay, calling his letter politically motivated.

“Board decisions are made after this very long and intentional process—in this case, my decision was not quickly made without endless scrutiny and questioning,” Hanacek wrote. “Mr. Alpay was part of the entire process with equal opportunity to understand and question this process.

John Alpay appears to have crafted a not very veiled attempt at political self-preservation. A pattern is forming with him of voting one way then flip-flopping if things get uncomfortable. Our students deserve the very best we can give them—they are worth being unpopular for.”

MYSTERY AND RUMOR Valerie Woodstra, President of the SCHS PTSA, said parents began hearing rumors of a potential change at SCHS almost two weeks prior to the announcement, during the period where the school was dealing with the death of student Saylor Voris from leukemia. Woodstra said things reached a fever pitch during the first full week of May, when Halt was suddenly absent from his office. Many par-

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ents had also expressed frustration with a lack of input for students and parents in the process, she said.

“I’ve never heard anything negative about Mike,” Woodstra said. “But there’s been nothing disparaging about Chris Carter either.”

A group of parents who recently had an issue at the school regarding a movie shown by a teacher in an AP Art History class, stated in a release that they felt Halt handled their situation appropriately (the letter appears in this issue).

“When these concerns were elevated to him less than one week ago, we feel that he reacted appropriately and was engaged in ensuring it was handled correctly,” the release stated. “Essentially, he showed why he was highly regarded by parents and students alike at SCHS and we are 100 percent confident that he would have managed this situation correctly, given the opportunity.”

Science teacher Cecily Kipe, who is retiring at the end of the school year, said staff feels similarly to parents. Kipe said many staff members first heard about the rumors from parents, rather than receiving communication from the district about what was happening at the school, a move she described as “disappointing.”

“He is very respected by staff, a strong leader, who stuck to his word,” Kipe said.

“He supported the staff and had a direction and vision for the school. He tightened up discipline, which needed to be tightened up. And he had a vision on curriculum.”

That Halt’s removal came at an already stressful time for students and faculty, with a number of advanced placement and international baccalaureate tests coming, she said, made an already stressful time more difficult. Kipe added that staff members are reluctant to speak out.

“Among staff, there’s a difficulty believing that Mike Halt would do something that would cause him to be fired,” Kipe said.

“People are thinking, ‘If they could do that to the principal, what could they do to me?’”

Students have also been feeling the stress. At Friday’s event, student body president Alex Zewiski said students were looking to the community for help in the days ahead.

“We’re the ones who need support,” Zewiski said, noting how trying the last month has been at the school.

Victoria Mendez, the daughter of Anna Mendez, also spoke at the Friday event, and has been critical of the district’s handling of the situation. She said the announcement has galvanized many to advocate for Halt’s return.

“The announcement of Halt’s dismissal created extreme frustration for students, because we personally loved and respected Principal Halt,” Mendez wrote in an email. “At the same time, it has created a climate of activism, as students have united in determination to achieve justice for Halt. Students truly believe that they will affect change and they are not ready to stop fighting until that has been accomplished.” SC www.sanclementetimes.com

EYE ON SC

SC Sheriff’s Blotter

COMPILED BY EVAN DA SILVA

All information below is obtained from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department website. The calls represent what was told to the deputy in the field by the radio dispatcher. The true nature of an incident often differs from what is initially reported. No assumption of criminal guilt or affiliation should be drawn from the content of the information provided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD website.

Monday, May 11 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida San Diego, 100 Block (2:16 a.m.)

Police conducted a patrol check for multiple subjects who were selling drugs.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Palizada, 300 Block (1:26 a.m.)

A homeless woman who is a known meth user was refusing to leave the laundry room and was disturbing the peace. The man who called police described her as being in her 40s, 5 feet 8 inches tall and having a thin build. It was unknown whether or not she was under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the call.

DISTURBANCE El Camino Real, 500 Block (12:54 a.m.)

A “suspicious” caller demanded a deputy come question him about his drug dealer, who was making threats about being on drugs. The man said his dealer had also pushed him out of a store.

DUSTURBANCE Via Pimpollo, 1900 Block (12:20 a.m.)

A woman told police her friend had thrown her into a wall after having two glasses of wine that evening. The friend could be heard yelling in the background that the woman calling was “crazy.”

Sunday, May 10 9-1-1 HANGUP-WIRELESS Camino De Los Mares, 600 Block (10:22 p.m.) Emergency operators could hear a woman on the line saying “Hello?” but nothing else. At least one man’s voice was heard in the background.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 2400 Block (10:09 p.m.)

A man reported that another man had broken into his motel room, assaulted him about 10 minutes earlier and that Orange County Fire Authority refused to acknowledge his request for assistance. The manager of the business believed the guest was being suspicious about the story.

DRUNK DRIVING Calle Frontera/Avenida Vista Hermosa (6:53 p.m.) A motorcyclist crashed his bike into the bushes on Calle Frontera.

The caller who reported the accident believed the man was drunk because he smelled like alcohol.

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SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Via Barracuda, 700 Block (4:57 p.m.)

The caller said a nude, drunken woman tried to break through the gate at their house.

FOLLOW UP REPORT El Camino Real, 400 Block (2:44 p.m.)

A business owner saw a man who robbed his store a few weeks prior walking a French bulldog.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES El Camino Real, 2400 Block (1:55 p.m.)

Police were informed of a woman who was outside the caller’s door, ringing the doorbell, banging on the door and yelling. The caller was too scared to answer the door.

Saturday, May 9 SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Pico/Interstate 5 (8:57 p.m.)

A panhandler was seen walking up behind customers in the parking lot as they were loading their cars. The man was also “suspiciously” following women and looking into their cars.

PETTY THEFT REPORT Avenida Victoria, 600 Block (5:53 p.m.)

After having her phone stolen at the Fisherman’s restaurant, a woman used her husband’s phone in an attempt to track it down.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCES Avenida Ramona, 0 Block (6:37 p.m.)

A man in his 50s was seen behind the Budget Lodge checking car door handles.

PATROL CHECK Avenida Algodon, 100 Block (5:57 p.m.)

Police searched the area for a gray Lincoln Navigator that was continually coming and going out of the apartment complex. The caller saw two or three men inside and believed they were attempting to buy illegal drugs from an apartment.

ASSIST OUTSIDE AGENCY El Camino Real, 3500 Block (6 p.m.)

Orange County Fire Authority notified police about a woman who said she fell down the stairs and possibly had a broken nose. They also stated she was a known alcoholic and that call history showed units responding to reports of a drunken woman at her location the day before.

DISTURBANCE Avenida Del Mar, 600 Block (3:08 p.m.)

Police conducted a patrol check for a homeless woman wearing a purple parka, pushing a buggy and throwing sand at people.

PATROL CHECK South Ola Vista/Avenida Alessandro (1:49 a.m.) A caller reported multiple subjects coming and going from a “drug house” on the south corner of the block. A gold fourdoor car with a fireman sticker had been making rounds to the location all night. www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SOAPBOX San Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTS

GUEST OPINION: View from the Pier by Herman Sillas

Finding What’s Important

34932 Calle del Sol, Suite B, Capistrano Beach, CA 92624

An appreciation of transformation

M

other’s Day reminds us that we all have a mother. I don’t need a commercial day to remind me of that fact. I think of my mother all the time when I’m out on the pier or other times when I see something that reminds me of her. She was a beautiful brown skinned woman and very much a lady to her dying day. She was shy, quiet and tender with a set of standards that she imposed upon her children. We were her treasures protected by her unending love.

Of course growing up as her only son, I didn’t understand all that at the time. I thought she was bossy and a snitch. She reported all my mischief to my father who was the enforcer of her rules. My punishment ranged from a scolding, going to bed without dinner or a spanking. Of course, she would sneak in a cookie and glass of milk if I was sent to bed without dinner. My clothes were always clean, ironed and folded, including my underwear. She referred to me as her “little man.” As I got older and started dating, she rendered an opinion as to how I looked. Mom might suggest a different tie or shirt. I’d make the change.

After Cora and I married, she made it known to me that she was not going to iron any of my underwear. In fact she didn’t include them in the washing machine when she washed hers. Cora believes in separate and equal. I left her

Letters to the Editor ART HISTORY ISSUE SHOULD NOT REFLECT POORLY ON HALT JEFF WILHITE, TRISH WILHITE, SUSAN BARTOW, HEATHER BROWN, TIM BROWN AND MARK EISELE

There are rumors circulating that the justification for not renewing the contract for Principal Mike Halt is due to the “health and safety issues” at San Clemente High School and that those “health and safety issues” are tied to a series of recent incidents that occurred in the AP Art History class taught at SCHS. As the parents who have raised concerns regarding the conduct and teaching of the class, we want to be unequivocally clear as to what we believe happened and who is responsible.

The recent showing of the documentary film, The Artist is Present (released San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

opinion alone, figuring there are bigger civil rights issues to address than the right of my underwear to intermingle with her underwear in the washing machine.

When Cora became a mother, she took on the duties with suggestions from her mother and mine. The rules of the house were simple.

Do what mother wants.

I was the enforcer even if I didn’t agree with the rules. All the children received dressing instrucTHE VIEW FROM THE PIER tions from Cora before

By Herman Sillas they left the house. She would send our daughters back to their rooms to change if she didn’t like what they were wearing. She was more lenient with our son, figuring I knew more about men’s wear than she did.

As our five children left the house, established their own residences and raised their families, Cora didn’t have anyone to tell what to wear, except me. As I got dressed to go to work, sometimes she’d say, “You aren’t going to wear that are you?”

“Yeah. What’s wrong with it?” I’d ask.

She gave me her reasons. Sometimes I’d change; sometimes I didn’t. She’d let it go. But if we were going out together that’s a different matter. I’d select my

2012) in the AP Art History class is simply the most recent episode in a pattern of questionable behavior demonstrated during school year by this teacher. Investigations are pending by Capistrano Unified School District, and it is our hope that the outcome will be a classroom more focused on the scope, beauty and history of art and less focused on other issues.

We also unequivocally voice our support of Principal Halt. When these concerns where elevated to him less than two weeks ago, we feel that he reacted appropriately and was engaged in ensuring it was handled correctly. He welcomed parents and students to address any concerns they had and meet with him personally—fully committed to transparency. Essentially, he showed why he was highly regarded by parents and students alike at SCHS, and we are 100 percent confident that he would have managed this situation correctly, given the opportunity.

Frankly, Principal Halt is the best thing to happen to SCHS in years, and losing him would set us back years as well as erode any momentum that has been

clothing and then she asked with a disapproving facial expression, “You aren’t going to wear that are you?”

“Yeah. What’s wrong?”

“We don’t match. I’m wearing blue. It doesn’t go with what you have on,” Cora would say as if I, an artist, should know that.

“Who says we have to match?” I asked without thinking.

“I do.” Cora responded.

Over the course of our marriage Cora and I have figured out what is important to each other. She knows when it is best to leave me alone. I have learned her domains. Since she always made sure her children were dressed properly and they are all gone, I am all that is left.

When I go out to fish or just hang around the house, Cora doesn’t care what I wear.

But if we are going out, I make sure to ask, “What do you think,” pointing to my clothes. She glances up and gives me a nod and a smile. My wife has become my Mom. That’s the view from the pier.

Herman Sillas can be found most weekend mornings fishing on the San Clemente Pier.

He may be reached at sillasla@aol.com. SC PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com.

gained since his arrival. He should not be held accountable for the behavior of a single teacher. If there are other reasons for his dismissal from SCHS, then we call on CUSD to make those known to the SCHS student body and parents and residents of San Clemente. However, we emphatically refute any notion that Principle Halt has done anything incorrect or inappropriate in regards to this teaching matter in AP Art History, and support his continued tenure at San Clemente High School for years to come.

We as parents are asking for a recount to reinstate Principal Halt!

REINSTATE PRINCIPAL HALT DONNA CARTER, San Clemente

My son is finishing up his junior year at San Clemente High School. During his freshman year, the high school was in a shambles—a crumbling physical plant that showed every one of its 50 years and an indifferent student body. Principal Mike Halt was hired in my son’s sophomore (Cont. on page 13)

Page 10

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SOAPBOX (Cont. from page 10) year and the place began to immediately turn around. The rampant theft and prevalence of drugs on campus has been virtually eradicated due to Principal Halt’s focus on initially unpopular initiatives: closing the campus, cleaning up trash and enforcing truancies and tardies. These initiatives have resulted in a campus that has a renewed focus on academics first and athletics and activities second.

As a result of his actions, Principal Halt is applauded by his parents, beloved by his students and commended by his faculty and staff. Let’s not forget there was a nationwide search for Principal Halt and his outside perspective brought a breath of fresh air to the school that was desperately needed. In two short years, Principal Halt has proven to be just what SCHS needed and I urge the superintendent and CUSD board to reinstate him for the 2015-16 academic year. Let’s keep the momentum going that he started and make SCHS the high school its students deserve.

SADEGHIS DESERVE APOLOGY LIZ HANSON KUHNS, San Clemente

Jim Smith has his story wrong about Shaheen and Linda Sadeghi (“Letter to the Editor: Letter Was Self-Promoting, SelfServing,” SC Times, April 30). Here’s how I remember it: After decades of disappointing decline in North Beach, in 2000 the City Council and the Downtown Visioning Task Force North Beach Steering Committee (including Stephanie Dorey, Susan Ritschel, Jim Dahl, Joe Anderson, Wayne Eggleston and Lori Donchak) came up with the idea to request proposals from builders for plans to do something with the two parking lots at North Beach (the city owned only the parking lots and the pool, but not the movie theater, bowling alley, Casino, 7-Eleven, Ichibiri’s or Kaylani.) The council hoped this city project would be the impetus for renewal in North Beach.

Many builders from all over responded.

Some proposals were unworkable or required the city to foot too much of the cost. The council boiled down the list to three contenders who were experienced developers with viable plans. Then the city asked these three developers to provide preliminary detailed, and expensive, building and financial plans.

Luckily and happily, Stephanie Dorey was my friend, and she told me about the process as it happened. She said that of the three finalists she preferred the LAB (Little American Business) proposal because the project was dynamic, high quality, environmentally and socially sensitive, innovative and visitor friendly. She thought the owners of the LAB, Shaheen and Linda Sadeghi, were thoughtful, creative and sincere.

One of the other developers wanted to build condominiums in the parking lot and in place of the Casino and attempted to influence the council’s decision by purchasing the Casino and also entering San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

Join the San Clemente Times for Beachside Chat, Friday, May 15 at 8 a.m. at Café Calypso, 114 Avenida Del Mar. Incoming SC Times editor Eric Heinz will be this week’s guest. 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.

into a sales contract with Kaylani. Despite this manipulation, the council and the community freely chose the LAB as the best applicant.

Being chosen by the council turned out to be a horrible thing for the Sadeghis.

First, when asking for bids, the city forgot to mention the giant drainage ditch buried under the parking lot and the 25-foot minimum set-back deed restriction on the Ole Hanson Beach Club, so the Sadeghis’ original project size and design for underground parking were back to the drawing board. Every redesign is expensive. Then, six years into the process, after all approvals from the building department, design review and the Planning Commission, after accolades from the Coastal Commission and a City Council vote of approval, some residents of San Clemente decided they didn’t want the parking lot developed.

Couldn’t those residents have spoken up years earlier, before so much money, effort and six years had been put into the project?

Then in 2008, eight years into the project, San Clemente voters approved Measure W, an advisory vote to proceed with the project. So, the Sadeghis continued on with expensive design work. Then, in 2011 Measure A again asked the voters’ opinion, and the project was killed. Eleven years of wasted effort and extreme expense.

During the years of controversy, the city didn’t step up to accept responsibility for their mistake in requesting proposals to develop the parking lot. The city let the public misplace the blame, let the public think the “greedy” Sadeghis had instigated the project, when in fact the Sadeghis were invited to bid and worked hard to have a successful project. The Sadeghis were called “greedy out-of-town developers,” when they lived in Laguna Niguel. I feel the Sadeghis got hideous treatment from the city of San Clemente. And now, in his letter, Jim Smith accuses them of being “self-promoting” because they “hype their muffins and wedding venue.” I say, thank God, finally there are two great businesses in North Beach.

I love Ellie’s Cafe and eat there often (the muffins are delicious). I loved the gorgeous wedding I attended at the beautiful Casino (that used to be a dilapidated ruin). I think the Sadeghis deserve an official apology from the city and from San Clemente residents who didn’t realize the city invited the Sadeghis to build.

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at letters@sanclementetimes. com. San Clemente Times reserves the right to edit reader-submitted letters for length and is not responsible for the claims made or the information written by the writers. Please limit your letters to 350 words.

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SOAPBOX GUEST OPINION:

By John M. Alpay, Trustee, Capistrano Unified School District

Superintendent Vital: Be Like Mike

T

he manner in which Capistrano Unified School District Superintendent Kirsten Vital removed San Clemente High School Principal Michael Halt can only be described as a textbook example of gross negligence. The lack of official communication regarding his termination for almost six days caused a great amount of unnecessary yet completely understandable discontent, confusion and anger.

As stated in the press release issued this past Wednesday, “Change is a natural part of moving a system to the next level and essential when ensuring the futures of our students.” I agree.

It was with great fanfare last year that we announced the hiring of Kirsten Vital as our next superintendent. Without question the post of superintendent for the Capistrano Unified School District is a challenging and difficult job that requires a special breed of person. The recruitment process took many months and required the services of two separate recruiting firms.

We wanted somebody bold. We wanted somebody who was not afraid to make the hard call. We wanted somebody who would take us from a really good school district to something we could hold out as a national model of public education.

We found all of that in Kirsten Vital. And I still firmly believe that she possesses those characteristics and has the talent, intelligence and ability to make us into what we want to be. She even showed wisdom by choosing to buy a house and settling down in San Clemente. The only thing that we did not realize is that she also appears to be completely and utterly tone deaf.

Parents, teachers and students have all come to love and respect Michael Halt.

After the board appointed him as principal for San Clemente High School, I personally challenged Michael to spend the time and become integrated into the community and not just learn, but truly understand how San Clemente is a special community and how central the high school is to its identity. I think we can all agree that as a Marine with command presence, he took on the task and achieved his objective in an efficient and expeditious manner.

With that in mind, did Michael Halt deserve to be terminated during the middle of AP/IB exams, a few short weeks before graduation and the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the high school? As indicated in the Wednesday press release, the Board of Trustees voted a number of months ago to end Michael Halt’s employment at the end of the school year.

Because this is a personnel matter, I cannot provide further details. However, I can state without equivocation that at no time did the board affirmatively vote to put him

Page 14

out in the street in such an unceremonious and uncivil fashion.

The ability to put Michael Halt on leave for the remainder of the school year and duration of his contract is the Superintendent’s prerogative. I do not support her action. It was a blunder of monumental proportions. Given the tone of Wednesday’s press release, one can only wonder if it is a message to others in the district not to stand up and challenge the superintendent. I say this because for those who remain, they must continue the task of educating our students, but I sense that they may now do so in fear. Multiple teachers and staff members have told me in the last week that they are no longer permitted to talk to trustees. One employee even feared that he would “end up like Mike” if I was seen talking to him.

The need for corrective action and change is clear. First, we need to establish an effective and open means of communication. This kind of structure clearly does not exist within our district. We need to hire professionals on a full time basis or at this point somebody competent who can work with existing assets. Six days of silence is unacceptable.

Second, our superintendent should engage with our community, teachers and staff. It is not enough to simply say “I live here!” Instead follow a good example and be like Mike and sincerely engage. For example, the upcoming San Clemente Education Foundation’s 12th Annual Event would be an ideal event for the entire family.

And finally and most immediately, allow Michael Halt the honor and dignity to attend San Clemente High School’s end of year ceremonies, anniversary celebrations and to graduate with his seniors. At this point he may politely decline to participate, but at least the choice will be his.

It is my hope that Superintendent Vital will listen to this now public plea. If these actions are undertaken then I believe we will begin the healing process to repair the damage done in this past week while at the same time showing a United States Marine Colonel the proper respect that he has earned and fully deserves.

Anything short of this recommended course of action would in my opinion constitute a continued lack of communication and engagement to the detriment of our students. And in in that kind of scenario while exceptionally costly and disruptive, it may be in the district’s best interests to part ways with more than one employee. 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.

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC GETTING OUT San Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

The List

Monday | 18

EDITOR’S PICK

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.

What’s going on in and around town this week

COMPILED BY STAFF

Thursday | 14 CASA UP CLOSE: HIDDEN HISTORY OF ORANGE COUNTY 7 p.m. From Disney, to the aerospace industry, to beach culture and beyond, Orange County has a fascinating past with many secrets worth revealing. Join PBS host, pop-culture historian and Huntington Beach resident Chris Epting as he shares his knowledge of Southern California’s third-most populated county. $12. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

SPRING REFLECTIONS FINE ART EXHIBITION The Saddleback Art League presents its 16th annual Juried Fine Art Exhibition through May 22 in the Mission Viejo Library, 100 Civic Center, Mission Viejo.

The artists represented in the show are mostly local residents, many with noteworthy reputations for creative styles and subject matter. For more information, visit www.saddlebackartleague.com.

Tuesday | 19

Doheny Blues 2014. Photo: Andrea Swayne

MAY 16-17: DOHENY BLUES FESTIVAL Surf melds with blues as Bonnie Raitt, Paul Rodgers, Boz Scaggs and more take the stage at this two-day music festival at Doheny State Beach. Performances spread across three stages with food, beer and wine vendors throughout. $5 shuttle service from Dana Hills High School. General admission $60 single day; $115 both days. 25300 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.360.7800, www.dohenybluesfestival.com.

THE FREMONTS 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.

Saturday | 16

Friday | 15

MUSIC AT OC TAVERN 9:30 p.m. The Originalities, Joint Committee and All Night Pressure with Waterhouse at OC Tavern. $5. 2369 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.542.8877, www.octavern.com.

TOT WALK 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Join Ranger Zak along with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers and bring your young ones (infants to age 3) to explore Aliso’s wild backyard. Participants will see bugs, animal tracks, plants and birds. $3 per vehicle. Reservations are required at www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, 949.497.8324, www.ocparks.com.

ON IMPULSE AT CABRILLO PLAYHOUSE 8 p.m. Headed by Emmy-nominated producer/director Pamela Peak, the On Impulse Acting Troupe, will open their summer season at the Cabrillo Playhouse with a night of Neil Simon comedy scenes May 15-17. Tickets and the summer schedule are available online at www. pamelapeakproductions.com/2015-season.

Cabrillo Playhouse, 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465.

ABSTRACT PAINTING WITH ELAINE COHEN 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Students of all ages and skill levels will be encouraged to step “out of the box” and paint from their imagination and emotions. Learn the basic elements of design, options available in mediums, methods of application, colors, blending, and more. Students must bring their own materials. Cost is $250. San Clemente Art Supply, 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com.

Sunday | 17 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.

“THE MISSIONS OF ALTA CALIFORNIA” 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Join Mission San Juan Capistrano for a complimentary presentation on “The Missions of Alta California” presented by Art Historian Jean Stern, accompanied by early paintings from the Irvine Museum’s collection. For reservations, contact Pat March at 949.234.1322 or pmarch@missionsjc.com. Mission San Juan Capistrano, 26801 Ortega Highway, 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

OPEN MIC NIGHT 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Singer/songwriters perform at the Point Restaurant open mic every Tuesday. 34085 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, 949.464.5700, www.thepointrestaurantandbar.com.

DREAM BROTHER 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at The Cellar.

156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

Wednesday | 20 COMEDY NIGHT 9:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. Live comedy at Molly Bloom’s Irish Bar every Wednesday night.

2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomsirishbar. com.

For our full calendar, visit the “Event Calendar” at www.sanclementetimes.com.

Have an event? Send your listing to events@sanclementetimes.com

At the Movies: For Romance and Drama Stay ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’

BY MEGAN BIANCO, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

F

Photo: Fox Searchlight

San Clemente Times May 14-20, 2015

or a book written in 1874, the tone and morals of Thomas Hardy’s story, Far from the Madding Crowd, feel remarkably modern. Carey Mulligan chose the feminist-themed period piece as her return to lead film roles after spending a year on stage with “Skylight.” Her collaboration with director Thomas Vinterberg and screenwriter David Nicholls fortunately succeeds.

Bathsheba Everdene (Mulligan) receives her uncle’s entire estate and cash assets upon his sudden death and decides to dedi-

cate her life to keeping the house and farm running. In her new role, Bathsheba has no interest in getting married but coincidentally, three suitors fall in love with her and propose marriage at various times in her young life—the silent and strong Mr. Oak (Matthias Schoenaerts), the mature and responsible Mr. Baldwood (Michael Sheen) and the lusty and wild Sgt. Troy (Tom Sturridge).

Acclaimed Danish filmmaker Vinterberg is an unconventional choice to head the film, but his style gives the feature a unique and artsy quality.

Page 19

Mulligan has the difficult task of portraying Bathsheba as stern, but also endearing, and does so with her sophisticated delivery and a sweet smile.

She gives a great performance as a lady who struggles to find out if it’s possible to have an independent calling along with a love to share it with. Though the summer movie season has started with sci-fi blockbusters as top choices for moviegoers, Far from the Madding Crowd is currently the best choice for those looking instead for romantic drama. SC www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SC LIVING San Clemente

PROFILES OF OUR COMMUNITY

Santoro, Martin Honored as Volunteers of the Year City recognizes efforts across the spectrum of giving

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

F

Antonia Matias-Bell. Photo: Courtesy

Presidential Material

San Clemente student wins prestigious arts prize

BY JIM SHILANDER, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

I

t’s not often that high school students get recognized for outstanding achievement by the White House. But Antonia Matias-Bell, who, along with about 20 to 30 other students from San Clemente, makes a daily train trip up to Santa Ana to attend the Orange County School for the Arts, where she is concentrating on creative writing, has earned such an honor.

Matias-Bell received notice on May 4 that she had been named a 2015 Presidential Scholar, an award given to 141 students across the country who “have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service and contribution to school and community.”

As part of the award, Matias-Bell will be honored at the Kennedy Center in Washington, as well as being recognized at the White House.

Matias-Bell was nominated for the honor by a foundation called Young Arts, which nominates 60 students nationwide for the honor, with 20 ultimately selected for the honor.

What made the week a little strange, Matias-Bell said, was that others knew about the honor before she did.

“They sent me a hard copy packet with congratulations and a formal letter (from the Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan) along with travel instructions and things like that before they sent me an email,” she said. “And before that, they released the list of names online. So of all of my friends at school and teachers, I was the

San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

last to know. A bunch of my friends came up to me and said ‘Why didn’t you tell me?’

And I had to say, ‘I don’t know what you’re talking about.’ Most of the people in the writing program had figured it out before I did.”

to figure out what I “careI tryabout and care about

doing well and then try to do my best at that, and try to get better at it every day.

That doesn’t set me apart, exactly, but it is what I try to do, and it’s paying off in unexpected ways.

—Antonia Matias-Bell

or Jill Martin, volunteering has been about paying back what she thought her family owed the city. For Mina Santoro, volunteering has been about helping to fulfill a longtime dream.

Martin and Santoro were honored May 7 at the city’s annual Volunteer Appreciation luncheon, where they were awarded the title of co-volunteers of the year.

Martin has been with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department since 2006. She said she saw the effort as the way to repay the city for the way emergency services had treated her family in the past.

“My mother was ill, and she loved to call 9-1-1,” Martin said. “They would show up every time with a smile on their face, ask her ‘How’s everything,’ whether it was the fire department paramedics or whoever. I am so grateful to them, and this is my way of giving back to the city for how good they were to her.”

Martin now primarily works in the sheriff department substation in San Clemente, compiling statistics to be sent each month to the county. She also compiles minutes for the group’s monthly meetings, along with helping to answer phones.

“I love the group that I work with, and I thank the city. Thank you all,” Martin said upon receiving the award.

Santoro, who has headed the Courtney’s SandCastle Foundation since its founding, was completely surprised by the award, noting that she had been planning on taking her daughter to the orthodontist due to a broken bracket before deciding to come to the luncheon.

Courtney’s celebrated a major mile-

stone this year, with the completion of the second phase of the universal access playground. Santoro helped to write grants for the park, solicited donations for the organization and hosted special events to come to the park, as well as reaching out to the special needs population of the county to bring more children to the park.

“I want to thank you all for honoring me, but I can’t take the credit because I couldn’t have done this without the support of this amazing community,” Santoro said. “It’s exciting to have worked on the project for 13 years and now finally seeing the kids playing. At the groundbreaking, I had tears in my eyes.”

Other nominees for the honor included Sally Silva of the Pet Project Foundation, who was nominated for her hours of volunteer work that included fundraising and dog walking, as well as leading several of the organization’s fundraisers. Kathy LaMonte of the San Clemente Friends of the Library was nominated for her work helping to coordinate bookstore volunteers, which included staying in close contact with the volunteers during the bookstore’s closure for the library expansion project and keeping them connected with various functions. Mary Lou Wakefield, also from the Friends of the Library, serves as membership chair of the group and has spearheaded a number of initiatives to increase the group’s membership, as well as well as leading a fundraising partnership with the San Clemente Art Association for a new tile program. Francine Desilets of the Neighborhood Watch program and John Dorey of the Friends of San Clemente Foundation were also honored with special recognition. SC

”

Matias-Bell plans to attend USC to study screenwriting, though most of her idols are fiction writers rather than writing for the screen, including Karen Russell and Gabriel Garcia Marquez.

“I don’t think of it as ‘I’m so special and different from all the other kids,’” she said. “I try to figure out what I care about and care about doing well and then try to do my best at that, and try to get better at it every day. That doesn’t set me apart, exactly, but it is what I try to do, and it’s paying off in unexpected ways.” SC

Mina Santoro, left, and Jill Martin were honored as the city’s volunteers of the year by Mayor Chris Hamm.

Photo: Jim Shilander

Page 20

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC LIVING GUEST OPINION: On Life and Love After 50 by Tom Blake

Love Found a World Away

I

n April, when I wrote in this column that my life partner Greta and I would be vacationing in Graz, Austria, reader Ken Halvorsrude emailed, “I have been enjoying your articles in the Dana Point Times for quite a while. I was interested to see you will be in Graz, Austria, soon. I will be in the Graz area from May 1 until May 9.

“My life partner, Maria (Moser), has a beautiful home not far from Graz. We travel a lot, as you and Greta do. Maybe we should meet for a drink or a meal? We might learn from one another, and even have some fun.”

After an exchange of emails with Ken, we agreed that the four of us would meet at 6 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, by the fountain in the Haupt Plaza, which is in the heart of the old city of Graz and just a few steps from where Greta and I are staying. Maria made a dinner reservation at a nearby restaurant. Since Greta and I had never met Ken and Maria, it was kind of an older couples’ blind date.

As Greta and I waited by the fountain, we wondered if they would recognize us and even if they would show up at all. When people travel overseas, many things can delay them that are out of their control. Our day had started at 8 a.m., two hours south of Munich, Germany, at a rural train station and included making two eight-minute connections, one at the Munich train station and one at the Salzburg, Austria station. Luckily, our trains were all on time.

Ken and Maria had just arrived from the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam.

But this couples’ blind date was meant to be. Soon, the four of us were seated in the restaurant Maria had selected and the first question for both was, “How did you meet?”

“Maria was a 60-year friend of the mother of my wife Renate, who was from Austria. Renate and I married in 1988,” Ken said. “She died of cancer in 2012. I called Maria shortly after Renate died, asking if she could provide me with the name of a hotel in the Wagna area where I could stay (I had to travel there to conduct family business). Maria told me she had a large house and I could stay there rather

than at a hotel.

“When I arrived at the airport in Austria, Maria met me. I was still grieving, and to see this gorgeous, wonderful woman standing there gave me a huge lift. We got along very well during that period and we have been together ever since.”

Similar to Ken, Maria had also been widowed and enjoyed traveling. She had lived in many places in the world and was happy she could help Ken during his difficult time.

Sunday night at the restaurant flew by as the ON LIFE AND four of us shared experiLOVE AFTER 50 ences. The coincidences

By Tom Blake kept arising. Ken and I are both from the Midwest. Ken owned a business in San Clemente for 25 years and recently sold it. I owned my Dana Point deli for 26 years and sold it Jan. 30. Ken has no children and I have no children.

And yet, Greta and Maria are both mothers and grandmothers. (Greta is a great grandmother three times over).

Our couples’ blind date went so well that we agreed to get together again this week. Maria and Ken have offered to take us on a day-trip tour of the “Wine Street,” area in Southern Austria from Leibnitz to the Slovenian border.

Oh, and one last coincidence. Ken and Greta have homes in San Clemente, one block from each other, on the same street.

The world is indeed small.

To read Tom’s travel blog, go to www. travelafter55.com and click on the “travel blog” tab at the top of the home page.

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 PLEASE NOTE: In an effort to provide our readers with a wide variety of opinions from our community, the SC Times provides Guest Opinion opportunities in which selected columnists’ opinions are shared. The opinions expressed in these columns are entirely those of the columnist alone and do not reflect those of the SC Times or Picket Fence Media. If you would like to respond to this column, please email us at editorial@sanclementetimes.com

Sudoku

BY MYLES MELLOR Last week’s solution:

Each Sudoku puzzle consists of a 9x9 grid that has been subdivided into nine smaller grids of 3x3 squares. To solve the puzzle, each row, column and box must contain each of the numbers 1 to 9. Puzzles come in three grades: easy, medium and difficult. Level: Medium Page 22

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

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SC n te S a n C le m e

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

PLACE YOUR BUSINESS CARD HERE Call 949.388.7700, ext. 111 or email slantz@sanclementetimes.com

San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

Page 23

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SC LIVING

Congratulations to the 2015 Assisteens he 2015 Rose Medallion Ball for the Assisteens League of Capistrano Valley will be held at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott in Dana Point, Sunday, May 24.

Seventeen senior girls will be presented–all graduates are from San Clemente High School.

Emma Diane Bankson Emma Diane Bankson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Bankson, has been a member of Assisteens Auxiliary for the past four years. She feels so lucky to have had the privilege of working with such a wonderful group of girls and helping in the community. Her favorite memory this year was working at Target for Operation Christmas Child. She looks forward to attending Washington State University in the fall.

Allyson Louise Birmingham Allyson Louise Birmingham, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Craig Birmingham, has been a member of the Assisteens Auxiliary for the past five years. One of her favorite philanthropic activities was working at the senior center. She is forever grateful for not only growing closer to the community but to her family and friends as well. She plans to attend Call Poly-San Luis Obispo in the fall.

Madison Nicole Chronister Madison Nicole Chronister, daughter of Ms. Brigitta Chronister, has been a member of the Assisteens Auxiliary for the past three years. Madison has enjoyed volunteering for Operation School Bell, making lunches for FAM and dancing and singing at the San Clemente Villas. Madison has been a part of the SCHS Track and Field team for three years. Madison hopes to attend a four-year university and continue competing.

Samantha Anne Engel Samantha Anne Engel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mark Engel, has been a member of the Assisteens Auxiliary for the past four years. Assisteens has given her the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and the confidence to do so. Samantha has really enjoyed helping out at the senior center. She will be attending the University of Oregon in the fall.

Rachelle McKenzie Eslick Rachelle McKenzie Eslick, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Eslick, has been a member of the Assisteens Auxiliary for the past five years. She has enjoyed being surrounded and being inspired by all the wonderful volunteers in Assisteens and the work they do in San Clemente.

She looks forward to attending Sonoma State University in the fall.

Sara Elizabeth Hartanov Sara Elizabeth Hartanov, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Hartanov, has been a member of the Assisteens Auxiliary for the past three years. Her favorite moments in Assisteens are helping out during Christmastime, giving presents to the kids and seeing the joy it brings them. Sara will be attending San Francisco State University in the fall.

Tatum Paige Harvey Tatum Paige Harvey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Harvey, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years.

Tatum has enjoyed volunteering for Operation School Bell, providing FAM lunches to those in need and making gingerbread houses every Christmas with her sister for the Senior Center. Tatum played volleyball for San Clemente High School. She plans to continue playing volleyball at USC in the fall.

Brookie Taylor Hitt Brookie Taylor Hitt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Hitt, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. She enjoys inspiring her fellow Assisteens each month, as Inspiration Chair. Brookie said it is a blessing to hold a leadership role in such an amazing organization. She looks forward to attending Colorado State University in the fall.

Alexa Yeepei Horvath Alexa Yeepei Horvath, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Horvath, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. Her fondest memory of Assisteens was bringing Thanksgiving baskets to families and seeing the children’s faces light up at the sight of a full meal, something that we take for granted every day. In the fall, she looks forward to attending San Diego State University.

Hanna Noel Kahn Hanna Noel Kahn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Kahn, has been a member of the Assisteen’s Auxiliary for the past three years. Hanna loved working the Bargain Box with her mom and painting children’s faces at the Easter Springtacular. Hanna played volleyball for San Clemente High School and enjoys art. Hanna will be playing volleyball and attending Academy of Art University in the fall.

Alexa Kaye Martino Alexa Kaye Martino, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Martino Jr., has been a member of Assisteens for the past three years. Her favorite memory of Assisteens is going to Camp Pendleton to honor Marines at the Marine Family Beach Day. It was rewarding to see their faces light up as they were honored for their service. She plans on attending a four-year university in the fall.

Haley Charlie McCabe Haley Charlie McCabe, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert McCabe Jr. has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. She has served her senior year as Chairman and previously as Ways and Means Chairman and Treasurer. She has especially loved baking treats for the annual USMC Beach Party. Haley plans to continue her passion for philanthropy at Washington State University.

Melissa Renee Newell Melissa Renee Newell, daughter of Thomas and Lisa Newell, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. One of the fondest memories she has as an Assisteen is volunteering at Santa’s Village and helping children pick out a toy. Seeing their faces light up with excitement at the thought of having a Christmas present was a humbling moment. Melissa will be attending Chapman University in the fall.

Bailey Ryan Peterson Bailey Ryan Peterson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bart Peterson, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. She looked forward to every Thanksgiving and Christmas she got to spend delivering plentiful holiday baskets to families in need. She also had the honor of serving as the Social Chairman. She looks forward to attending a university in the fall where she will continue my philanthropy work.

Sydney Redmond Sydney Redmond, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Redmond, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. One of Sydney’s favorite memories in Assisteens was volunteering at the Family Assistance Ministries holiday party. She also loved making the lunches for FAM, filling stockings for the military and working at Bargain Box each year with her mom. She plans on attending New York University in the fall.

Jenna Jacqueline Rowan Jenna Jacqueline Rowan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Rowan, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. Jenna has really enjoyed being the Senior Center chairperson with her mom for three years. Partaking in events such as Putting on the Glitz and Bargain Box made her feel more involved in the community. She looks forward to attending Saddleback in the fall and then transferring to a four-year college.

Alexandra Marie Schultz Alexandra Marie Schultz, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Schultz, has been a member of Assisteens for the past five years. She has many favorite memories, including serving military families at Camp Pendleton Military Beach Day. Alexandra has served as Recording Secretary and currently as Inspiration Chair. She was recently inducted in the National Honor Society and will attend Point Loma Nazarene University to study music education this fall.

T

San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

Page 24

www.sanclementetimes.com

SC SPORTS & OUTDOORS San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES AND MORE

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.

For a full version of this week’s Triton Report, visit www.sanclementetimes.com.

Effort Up Front Turns the Tide in Volleyball Playoff Win During the first set of their CIF-SS Division 1 first round playoff matchup against Redondo Union on May 12, the San Clemente boys volleyball team was struggling to find a rhythm, especially when attempting to block at the net.

The Seahawks outside hitters hit around, through and over the Tritons’ defensive front, securing a comfortable first-set victory.

But the first set would turn out to be a momentary glitch for the Tritons, as they regrouped their efforts up front and turned into the high-seeded playoff team they have looked like for most of the year, rallying to take the next three sets and the match, 19-25, 25-12, 25-19, 25-17.

San Clemente will travel to play Harvard

San Clemente’s Paul Castellana, left, hits through the Redondo Union defense in the first round of the playoffs on May 12. Photo: Lynn Hopper

Westlake in the second round of the playoffs on May 14.

The Tritons had four different players record blocks in the second set. Dominic Broussard recorded three blocks while Matt August, Brandon Hopper and Paul Castellana each had two. The blocking helped the Tritons grab quick points and reinvigorated their offense.

“We really honed in on pressing over and just really watching the hitters arm and just blocking the ball,” August said.

August led the way for the Tritons (256), collecting 11 kills, two aces and five blocks. Hopper had 10 kills and Broussard had six.

The Seahawks closed to within two points at 15-17 in the third set, but San Clemente went on a 6-0 run to pull away, capped off by consecutive August serving aces.

The 6-foot-8-inch Castellana and 6-foot7-inch Hopper powered the team down the stretch in the fourth. The two combined for seven kills and two blocks as the Tritons convincingly closed out the match.

“We were a little out of synch (in the first set) and we were a little bit, as seeded teams sometimes do, get a little bit on their heels. We weren’t as aggressive as we should have been,” San Clemente head coach Ken Goldstone said. “I think I feel pretty confident that we were the better team, we just had to get going.”

Up next for the Tritons is Harvard Westlake, who upset ninth-seeded Santa Barbara in the first round and won a coin flip to determine home court advantage in the second round.

Tritons Baseball Wins League Title A 1-0 victory over San Juan Hills on May 12 ensured that the San Clemente baseball team would claim the outright Sea View League championship in 2015.

The Tritons, who won two games against second-place Mission Viejo last week to earn at least a share of the title for the first time since 2001, needed to win one of their two remaining games against the Stallions for the sold championship.

San Clemente was able to get the win

on their first try, despite recording only one hit against Stallions’ starting pitcher Nicholas Hernandez.

It turned out one hit was all the home team needed to get the victory.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, San Clemente’s Tyler Ankrom reached on a fielding error, stole second base and came around to score when a ground ball hit by Will Tribucher was bobbled and thrown down the line by the Stallions defense.

“It’s kind of the way our season has gone. We obviously didn’t hit it our best but we got a little bit lucky at the end there,” Tritons head coach Dave Gellatly said. “We’re going to have to pick it up between now and next Friday if we expect to go deep in the playoffs.”

The Tritons’ Connor Sealey broke up Hernandez’s no-hit bid in the bottom of the fi fth inning with a single to right field.

Sealey advanced to second on the play on a fielding error and got to third following a sacrifice bunt by Dillon Riddle. With Sealey at third and one out, Hernandez got two easy groundouts to end the threat.

Both pitchers were sharp and San Clemente junior starter Andre Pallante matched Hernandez pitch for pitch over seven strong innings.

Pallante notched his third straight complete game victory, allowing three hits and two walks on eight strikeouts. Hernandez took the tough-luck loss after spinning six innings of one-hit ball.

The Tritons will close out the season May 14 against the Stallions and will likely be a high seed in the CIF-SS Division 2 playoffs.

Q&A With Ultra Distance Runner and SC Sports Hall of Fame Inductee Dean Karnazes

BY STEVE BREAZEALE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

D

Ultra distance runner Dean Karnazes will be inducted into the Friends of San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame May 16. Photo: Courtesy

San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

ean Karnazes is best known for putting his body through the most grueling physical scenarios imaginable. He once ran for 350 continuous miles, ran 150 miles across Death Valley in the middle of summer and finished 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days.

Karnazes, who Men’s Fitness named as one of the fittest men on the planet, will be inducted into the Friends of San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame May 16.

The San Clemente Times caught up with Karnazes, a San Clemente native, via email to talk about his past exploits, his plans for the future and his thoughts on being enshrined among the city’s elite athletes.

For a full version of this story, visit www.sanclementetimes.com.

San Clemente Times: Did the city of San Clemente in any way shape what turned out to be an active life for you?

Dean Karnazes: I loved San Clemente as

Page 26

a kid. The lifestyle was perfectly suited to me. Being outdoors and physically active was such a healthy way to grow up and develop. Every summer I joined the junior lifeguard program and spent sunup till sundown outside and exercising. I really believe the San Clemente atmosphere and lifestyle shaped who I am today.

SCT: I heard you had a “see the light” moment on your 30th birthday that sparked your whole endurance running career. Tell me about that night.

DK: I was in a bar with some friends, doing what you do on your 30th birthday (i.e., drinking heavily) when suddenly I felt this primitive urge to leave … I walked out of the bar and ran 30 miles to celebrate my 30th birthday. I ran straight through the night and it almost killed me, but I just kept going. It felt right, despite the pain and blisters. That run forever changed the course of my life.

(Cont. on page 28) www.sanclementetimes.com

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

Dean Karnazes plans on running a marathon in every country on Earth in the near future. Photo: Courtesy

(Cont. from page 26) SCT: You said that you enjoy the pain that comes with these ultra-distance runs.

What is it about that pain that keeps you coming back for more?

DK: This may be difficult for some to understand. Most people think that in the absence of suffering, if we have every comfort available, we’ll be happy. In many ways, however, we’re so comfortable we’re miserable. There is no pain, no struggle, and no hardship left in our lives. Everything comes easy. I find that I am never more alive than when I am struggling and in great pain running long distances.

Embrace the pain, I tell others, there is magic in misery.

SCT: Looking at the records you’ve set and runs you’ve accomplished, I would have to assume you’re a competitive person. Are you? Or is it more of you being competitive with yourself? Is that the main driving force for continuing to do these extreme distances?

DK: Truthfully, I’ve never competed against anyone but myself. In doing the things I do, it’s largely you versus you.

Mastering your body and mind requires 100 percent focus. I’ve always just tried to

be the best me that I could be and figured the rest was beyond my control. I’m Greek, and there is a word for this, aristeia (finding your “bestness”).

SCT: What was your reaction when you learned that you will be inducted into the San Clemente sports hall of fame?

DK: Complete surprise and elation. It’s funny, I was named by TIME magazine as one of the ‘Top 100 Most Influential People in the World’ but being inducted into the San Clemente Sports Hall of Fame makes me prouder.

SCT: What is your next big physical goal you have set for yourself? Any race/distance/destination you have in mind?

DK: My next great challenge is to embark upon a worldwide expedition to complete a marathon in every country of the globe in a one-year time period.

There are 203 countries and I’m working with the State Department and U.N. to get the necessary passports and permits to be able to do this. As you can imagine, the planning and logistics are every bit as complex and difficult as the running itself.

But I’ve always told my kids to dream big, so I guess I’d better set a good example.

SC

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SC SURF

SC SURF IS PRESENTED BY:

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITY

Surfers in Their Prime

UPCOMING EVENTS May 14-17: NSSA West Coast Championship, Huntington Beach, Pier May 30-31: WSA West Coast Championship, San Onofre State Park, Church Beach May 30-31: 16th Annual Cosmic Creek Surf Festival, luck-of-the-draw retro board contest and free Saturday concert, Dana Point, Salt Creek Beach. Sign up at Killer Dana Surf Shop, 24621 Del Prado Avenue in Dana Point.

Surfing America Prime series regular season wraps up at HB Pier

June 12-14, 16-20: Surfing America USA Championships, San Diego, Cardiff Reef (June 12-14) and San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles (June 16-20).

BY ANDREA SWAYNE, SAN CLEMENTE TIMES

S

urfing America Prime series invitees took their last shot of the season as accumulating points toward qualifying for the upcoming Surfing America USA Championships in June.

May 9 and 10 marked event No. 6 of six in the 2014-2015 season in 2- to 4-foot surf on the south side of the Huntington Beach Pier and competition was fierce.

The event was also the first time a Prime event was run using four-man priority system, introduced at this final event with hopes of giving surfers a chance at becoming familiar with it as priority rules will be introduced at this year’s championship.

“The kids were stoked on using the fourman priority and the surfing was top-notch once again… a perfect finish to another stellar year for Surfing America Prime.

Next up USA champs at Lowers,” said Ryan Simmons, Surfing America junior team coach and Prime series announcer.

Local surfers took nine of 20 podium spots at the event.

Standouts included Colt Ward of San Clemente, who took his fourth win of the year in the Boys U18 division. With two of the six series event scores dropped, Ward’s turned in the perfect season. Conner Dand (San Clemente) was runner-up in the division. In Girls U18, San Clementeans Samantha Sibley and Malia Osterkamp claimed the third and fourth spots,

GROM OF THE WEEK

TAJ LINDBLAD

T

aj Lindblad, 12, of San Clemente, marked an important milestone in his surf career Saturday when he made it into his first ever Surfing America Prime series final in the U14 division and a fourthplace finish in the event.

“I am super stoked,” he said. “I have been working hard and finally did it. It felt great because I was worried about qualifying for next year so I was really happy to make that first heat.”

He kept the momentum going throughout the event and on one of his best waves of the day, Taj was able to link his ride through from the outside earning a 6.8-point wave.

“On my best wave in Round 1, I did a cutback and a hit on the outside and then San Clemente Times May 14–20, 2015

SURF FORECAST Boys U18 finalist at the podium of event No. 6 of the six-contest series, May 10 at the Huntington Beach Pier were (L to R) Eithan Osborne (fourth place), John Mel (third), Conner Dand (second, San Clemente) and winner Colton Ward of San Clemente. Ward’s win was his fourth of the season, making for a perfect series, as only the top four of six results count. Photo: Jack McDaniel

SURFING AMERICA PRIME EVENT NO. 6 RESULTS BOYS U18: 1. Colton Ward, San Clemente, 16.24; 2. Conner Dand, San Clemente, 10.00; 3. John Mel, Santa Cruz, 8.43; 4. Eithan Osborne, Ventura, 5.17.

GIRLS U18: 1. Tia Blanco, Oceanside, 17.96; 2. Meah Collins, Costa Mesa, 12.73; 3. Samantha Sibley, San Clemente, 8.90; 4. Malia Osterkamp, San Clemente, 8.80.

BOYS U16: 1. Eithan Osborne, Ventura, 14.64; 2. Ryland Rubens, Pacific Beach, 14.03; 3. Braden Jones, Arroyo Grande, 12.37; 4. Sage Burke, Newport Beach, 10.64.

GIRLS U16: 1. Alyssa Spencer, Carlsbad, 9.93; 2. Bethany Zelasko, Dana Point, 9.37; 3. Samantha Sibley, San Clemente, 8.67; 4. Tiare Thompson, La Jolla, 7.54.

BOYS U14: 1. Noah Hill, Venice, 14.93; 2. Crosby Colapinto, San Clemente, 14.00; 3. Kade Matson, San Clemente, 12.26; 4. Taj Lindblad, San Clemente, 6.87.

respectively. Sibley was a double finalist also taking the No. 3 spot in Girls U16, behind runner-up Bethany Zelasko of Dana Point. Three of four places in Boys U14 were earned by San Clemente surfers— Crosby Colapinto (second), Kade Matson (third) and Taj Lindblad came in fourth, making his first-ever podium appearance in the Prime series.

Top youth shortboard surfers from across the country will meet at the Surfing America USA Championships, June 16 through 20 at San Onofre State Park, Lower Trestles. Adult shortboard, longboard and SUP divisions will compete June 12 through 14 at Cardiff Reef.

Prime regular season champions will be crowned at the USA Championships. SC

made it to the inside and did a couple more hits,” he said. “I really liked the four-man priority format at this contest because you don’t have to worry about people being on the inside of where you are; you can just go.

It’s fun.”

Taj also competes in NSSA and SSS events as a part of the Shorecliffs Middle School surf team.

School is a priority for Taj, as good grades translate into being allowed more time surfing. This year, the bright sixth-grader earned a 4.0 GPA in the first quarter, 3.83 in quarters two and three, and is giving it his best to finish out the year with another 4.0.

Taj has been surfing since he was a toddler and a professional career has been on his radar since he started competing.

“My dad put me on a little foam board when I was 2 and used to hold my hand while I rode whitewash,” he said. “That’s

when I started, but I really got into it when I was about 7 and started surfing every day. I really liked the feeling of it, being free. Now, I put a lot of hard work into it because I really want to do the WSL qualifying series.”

Taj would like to thanks his sponsors, Quiksilver, Oakley, Lost Surfboards and Modom Traction, along with his family and coach Neco Padaratz for their support.

TRAVEL: Taj went to Hawaii twice this year and will travel to Nicaragua with the Quiksilver team in June for training and photos.

TRAINING: “I’m really working on bending my knees more, doing more powerful turns and getting more vertical.”

LIFE IN SC: “I love living in San Clemente because there are so many pro surfers here and watching and surfing with them helps me to improve. It’s cool to bump into them around town too, like at the grocery store

Page 30

Water Temperature: 59-62 degrees F Water Visibility and Conditions: San Clemente: 6-8’+ Poor-fair Catalina: 12-18’ Fair+ Thursday and Friday: A new SSW swell will build in over Wed/Thurs and top out Thursday afternoon, holding steady through Friday with chest-head high+ surf at many of the better exposed breaks throughout Orange County. Standouts will produce some overhead sets, with occasional waves up to 2-3 feet overhead at the summer magnets during the best tides. Wedge will see larger waves. Lightest wind will be found in the mornings each day, along with cloudy skies, before moderate onshore flow rises up into the afternoons with clearing skies.

Outlook: The SSW swell that moves in for Thurs/Fri will fade through the weekend and into next week. Meanwhile, NW swell energy will be minor. More Southern Hemi swell due next week. Check the full premium forecast on Surfline for more details and the longer range outlook.

Taj Lindblad. Photo: Jack McDaniel

and stuff.”

EQUIPMENT: “I am riding a 4’10” V2 high performance shortboard and a grovel board that’s a 4’8” V3 Rocket by Matt Biolos.”

—Andrea Swayne www.sanclementetimes.com